In this truly inspiring episode, Dr. Esther Cole interviews Anna and Dr. Claire Plumbly, Clinical Psychologist. Dr Claire, specialist in trauma, sexual assault and burnout, helps Anna process experiences of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), following the birth of her fourth child, and a stressful return to work. Dissociation, flashbacks and anxiety from trauma initially left Anna mute, unable to find words or to understand the triggers.
Journey on a conversation built on the neuroscience of trauma, how our brains and minds work; and creative approaches Dr Claire and Anna use together to help her recover from trauma. Techniques include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), narrative writing, sensory therapies, and a spectacular spin on the TV series “Dr Who”.
Anna shares how her own therapy helped her to empower other survivors, of all ages, to thrive in her creative workshops. As her first therapist in 2017, Dr. Claire started Anna on a path of self-discovery, meaning making and one of embracing undiagnosed autism. Are we ever “cured”, or are we in a TARDIS of life-long learning?
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Sex Abuse Resources:
NSPCC - Legal guidance for everyone, for how to report child sexual abuse
National Rape Crisis Conference
Therapy book for survivors: “Flying Child” by Sophie Olson & Patricia Walsh.
Dr Claire Plumbly: A Comprehensive Guide to Coping After a Sexual Assault
NHS Rape and Sexual Assault Services
Rape Crisis: charity for a range of sexual assault, as well as historic CSA and child sexual exploitation.
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/reporting-abuse/what-to-do-child-reveals-abuse/
Training:
Justin Havens Therapy Training: Flash Technique
Lifespan Psychology:
Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice®
Dr Esther Cole - Linkedin
Lifespan Psychology Instagram
Lifespan Psychology LinkedIn
Lifespan Psychology Facebook
Dr Claire Plumbly -
Crisis Numbers:
Samaritans - 116 123
Childline - 0800 1111
CALM - 0800 585858
For urgent assistance for your mental health, contact your GP or Out of Hours number on 111, call 999 or attend your nearest accident & emergency (A&E) department. If you are overseas, please contact your local charities and mental health services in your country.
Theme Tune: Bliss by Luke Bergs / bergscloud (No Copyright Music)