The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

421: Grieving your Therapist & Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Nov 15, 2024

Listeners explore the emotional challenges of ending a therapeutic relationship, grasping the grief that accompanies such loss. The conversation highlights the nuanced issues of transference and the steps necessary for emotional healing. They also delve into the often-ignored physical symptoms of depression, like fatigue and dissociation, discussing non-suicidal self-injury as a coping mechanism. Practical tools and alternative strategies for managing these experiences are offered, emphasizing the importance of connecting with one's body and seeking professional guidance.

26:00

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Quick takeaways

Grieving the end of a therapeutic relationship is a normal and significant emotional experience that deserves recognition and understanding.

Understanding and managing the physical symptoms of depression, such as profound fatigue and dissociation, is crucial for overall healing and coping.

Deep dives

Navigating Grief in Therapy

Grief is not exclusively tied to death; it can occur with any significant ending, including the conclusion of a therapeutic relationship. Individuals often experience sorrow and loss when transitioning out of therapy, similar to how they might feel after a breakup. The emotional connection formed with a therapist can lead to a profound sense of loss, even if the therapist is still alive and thriving. Recognizing the validity of these feelings is essential, as acknowledging grief is a crucial step in the healing process.

Intro

7min

Navigating Grief and Emotional Healing in Therapy

4min

Navigating Loss and Understanding Depression

7min

Exploring Healthy Alternatives to Self-Injury

6min

Navigating Depression Treatment Options

2min

In this Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I address two insightful listener questions. The first explores coping with the end of a therapeutic relationship, while the second delves into the physical manifestations of depression and strategies to manage them. This episode offers practical advice and empathetic understanding for those navigating these challenges.

Chapters:

00:15 — Introduction: Returning to Q&A After a series of interviews, I return to answering your questions. Learn how to submit your own and connect with the podcast.

02:05 — Coping with the End of Therapy A listener shares the grief experienced after concluding therapy with a transformative therapist. I discuss why these feelings are normal, the concept of transference, and practical ways to navigate the loss of such a significant relationship.

12:15 — Understanding the Physical Symptoms of Depression Addressing a listener's concern about the often-overlooked physical manifestations of depression, including fatigue, dissociation, and the role of self-injury as a coping mechanism. I explore what these symptoms can look like, why they occur, and practical tools to help reconnect with the body and manage the emotional weight.

24:00 — Final Thoughts and Encouragement Reflecting on the courage it takes to share these challenges and offering guidance on taking small steps toward healing.

About the Podcast I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to break down complex mental health topics into relatable, actionable advice. Each episode combines expert insights, practical tips, and answers to listener questions, all aimed at helping you live a healthier, more fulfilled life.

Connect With Me:

Mentioned in This Episode:

Book: Skin Game: A Memoir by Caroline Kettlewell. This memoir provides a vivid account of living with and overcoming self-injury. Available on Amazon:

I hope you find this episode insightful and supportive. If you'd like to send me a question for a future episode, please email me at duffthepsych@gmail.com.

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