Philip Stokoe (Audio); Ruptures and Repairs: The Dynamics of Therapeutic Relationships with young offenders

In this conversation, Philip shares his extensive experiences in psychotherapy, particularly focusing on his time at the Youth Treatment Centre. He discusses the importance of understanding young offenders, the significance of emotional safety and connection, and the challenges of leadership and vulnerability in therapeutic settings. Philip emphasizes the role of boundaries in therapeutic work, the hierarchy of decision-making in organizations, and the development of thinking and emotional understanding in both therapists and patients. He concludes with reflections on the importance of wellbeing in therapeutic work and the necessity of providing spaces for reflection and discussion among staff. https://philipstokoe.org.uk/   Takeaways The work happens when we can transform feelings projected into us. Young people often seek safety in gangs when they feel unsafe at home. Parents often make the error of giving too much decision-making power to children. Therapeutic boundaries are essential for effective work. Anxiety is a feeling that has not yet been named. Human beings are designed to care for the vulnerable. The importance of benign inquiry in therapeutic settings. Leadership in therapeutic environments requires vulnerability and self-awareness. The hierarchy of decision-making should empower lower levels to make decisions. Wellbeing in therapeutic work is crucial for effective practice.