The Trauma Therapist You Are Not Your Trauma with Robyn D. Walser, PhD and Darrah Westrup, PhD
Sep 29, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Robyn D. Walser, PhD, a clinical psychologist and ACT expert, teams up with Darrah Westrup, PhD, also a psychologist skilled in complex trauma. They dive into their new book, exploring the transformative power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Listeners learn how acceptance and values-based actions can revolutionize trauma recovery. The duo emphasizes that trauma does not define who you are, highlighting practical strategies for clinicians and survivors to navigate emotional challenges with compassion.
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A Partnership Born At The VA
- Darrah and Robyn met through shared interest in ACT and developed a long collaboration starting at the VA residential program.
- They brought ACT into that residential program and then ran follow-up groups and trainings together internationally.
Personal History Shaped Her Path
- Robyn shared that she has a personal trauma history which influenced her clinical focus and training path.
- She transitioned from aiming to be a doctor to studying psychology, then worked at the National Center for PTSD for 25 years.
Open To Experience, Act Toward Values
- ACT teaches opening to internal experience rather than fighting or avoiding it.
- The goal is committed action toward values and meaning rather than symptom eradication.
