In this unique episode on overcoming racial inequality, suicidal thoughts and borderline personality disorder (BPD), we discover how “Bart”, an Irish Traveller, endured a three-year wait for NHS mental health services, to eventually find a transformative connection with Dr. Claire Tobin, Clinical Psychologist.
With the gaps widening in NHS mental health care, and the lack of tailored and culturally sensitive therapies, we gain a window into the power of mentalization-based group and individual therapy in reshaping lives.
Through Bart's story, we shed a light on the impact of relational work, and the journey toward trust in a mental health system that often falls short.
After 18 months of interventions, Bart's revelations about his cultural identity as an Irish Traveller, survivor of trauma and protector, became a turning point in his therapy. This shows us the crucial role of authenticity in healing.
Find out how his instincts shaped his interactions and how moments of conflict and misunderstanding with his therapists became crucial steps in evolving past his diagnosis of BPD.
We discuss the importance of mentalization work and embracing relational uncertainties, to enhance the quality of human connections. Bart's resilience, determination, his emotional and academic intelligence shine through, offering hope, insight and mentorship for others going through life's toughest mental battles.
Resources:
NHS Charities Together: Link to donate
Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice® - https://www.lifespanpsychology.co.uk/
Lifespan BOSS Coaching - https://bosstoday.co.uk
Dr Esther Cole - Linkedin Profile
Lifespan Psychology Instagram
Contact Dr Claire Tobin at The Lighthouse Clinic
Research into Social Inequalities in the Irish Traveller Community:
Suicide rates amongst the Irish Traveller community is 6-7 times higher than in settled Irish people
Crisis Numbers:
NSPCC - https://www.nspcc.org.uk/
Samaritans - 116 123 - https://www.samaritans.org/
Childline - 0800 1111 - https://www.childline.org.uk/
CALM - 0800 585858 - https://www.thecalmzone.net/
If you are in need of urgent assistance for your mental health, please contact your GP or GP Out of Hours number on 111, call 999 or attend your nearest accident & emergency (A&E) department. If you are listening from overseas, please find out the local equivalent charities and government mental health services in your country.
Theme Tune Credit: Bliss by Luke Bergs / bergscloud (No Copyright Music)
Best wishes,
Dr. Esther Cole
Founder | Clinical Director | Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice ®
“Private therapy for all walks of life: all ages, all stages, all backgrounds”.
Landline: 0800 285 1565
Mobile: 07500 565 182
Watch our promotional video on our website:
https://www.lifespan-psychology.com/
Listen to self-help tips from people with their therapists on the Breaking Through Therapy podcast and raise money for NHS Charities Together
https://www.breakingthroughtherapy.com
Instagram: @lifespan_psychology
Amazon Book: Psychological Therapy for Paediatric Acquired Brain Injury
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Psychological-Therapy-Paediatric-Acquired-Injury/dp/0367276208/
Blog featuring podcasts and articles on parenting, child mental health and burnout:
https://www.lifespanpsychology.co.uk/blog
Please be aware that we do not provide a crisis service. If you are in need of urgent assistance, please contact your GP, or out of hours number on 111, the Samaritans on 116 123, or attend the nearest Accident and Emergency Department.
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