The Trauma Therapist The Courage To Move Forward with Paola di Floria
Nov 4, 2025
Paola DiFlorio, an Oscar and Emmy-nominated filmmaker and co-founder of Counterpoint Films, dives into her unique journey from news to authentic storytelling. She reveals how the documentary on Master Lee transformed into a deeper exploration of his hidden trauma, shaped by his childhood during China’s Cultural Revolution. Paola emphasizes the importance of trust in filmmaking, allowing for profound revelations and healing. Additionally, she shares insights into her upcoming projects, including a film on the Diamond Approach.
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Authenticity Reveals Hidden Masks
- Paola was drawn to storytellers who embody authenticity despite external pressures.
- She realized authenticity exposes the masks people wear to gain approval from family and society.
Personal Loss As A Wake-Up Call
- Paola describes caring for her son Luca through four years of mental-health struggles and then his death.
- That loss became a catalytic wake-up call that surfaced suppressed parts of her life.
Trauma Can Open To Purpose
- Paola reframes trauma as an opportunity to discover purpose and deeper self-knowledge.
- She argues courageously moving toward pain unlocks the gifts within trauma.