Dr Esther Cole (Audio);  Exploring Post-Traumatic Growth in Therapy, a new appraoch

Keywords post-traumatic growth, therapy, mental health, Breaking Through Therapy, ethics in therapy, self-care, therapeutic models, personal experiences, podcasts, clinical psychology Summary In this conversation, Dr. Esther Cole discusses the concept of post-traumatic growth and its significance in therapy. She shares insights from her podcast, 'Breaking Through Therapy,' which aims to demystify the therapeutic process and highlight the positive transformations that can arise from adversity. The discussion also touches on the ethical considerations of anonymity in therapy, the importance of self-care for therapists, and the role of personal experiences in shaping therapeutic relationships. Dr. Cole emphasizes the need for a broader understanding of mental health that includes post-traumatic growth, rather than solely focusing on deficits. Takeaways Post-traumatic growth is an important area of focus in therapy. The podcast aims to demystify the therapeutic process. Ethics and anonymity are crucial in therapy discussions. Personal experiences can shape therapeutic relationships. Self-care is essential for therapists to help others effectively. Therapeutic models should consider systemic approaches. Podcasts can provide valuable insights into mental health. Diversity in therapy practices is important for accessibility. The media often misrepresents the reality of therapy. Building a supportive community is vital for recovery. Dr. Esther Cole is an Author, Podcast Host, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Founder of a multi award-winning company Lifespan Psychology – The Diverse Practice® and Wellness BOSS Coach (BOSS stands for Business Owner Support Squad™).   Dr. Cole worked in the NHS for 12 years and joined the independent sector in 2017. She is currently on the BPS Division of Clinical Psychology sub-committee for Equality Diversity & Inclusion and the Special Group for Independent Practice (SGIP). Dr Cole hosts a podcast called “Breaking Through Therapy”. This is the only show where you come on as a guest with your therapist, at least one year later, to discuss your journey, the therapeutic relationship and post-traumatic growth. As a third-generation British Jamaican Psychologist, managing long-term conditions whilst being a mother of three, Dr Cole warmly welcome clients from all walks of life. She has a passion for men’s mental health, and for supporting children and adults living alongside mental, physical or neurological difficulties and trauma. Dr. Cole is co-editor of Psychological Therapy for Paediatric Acquired Brain Injury: Innovations for Children, Young People & Families (Jim, J. & Cole, E. 2019. London: Routledge). She is honoured to be the first Black Clinical Psychologist to receive the Early Career Award 2020 from The British Psychological Society for her role initiating and editing the book. Website | www.lifespanpsychology.co.uk/ Facebook | Lifespan Psychology - Breaking Through Therapy Podcast Instagram | lifespan_psychology LinkedIn | Dr Esther Cole, Multi-Award Winning Consultant Psychologist Podcast | www.breakingthroughtherapy.com