Paul Gilbert

Professor Paul Gilbert is the Founder of Compassion Focused Therapy and Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Derby. He has researched evolutionary approaches to psychopathology for over 35 years, with a special focus on shame and the treatment of shame based difficulties. He has written and edited 20 books and established the Compassionate Mind Foundation in 2006. He was awarded an OBE in March 2011. This episode focuses on Paul’s most recent book: ‘Living Like Crazy’ (https://amzn.to/2IbIfJD ), which was published earlier this year. In the interview we discuss some of the key themes of the book, including: - The surprising effects our culture and environment can have on our mental health - How understanding the evolved nature of the human mind can make you more compassionate; both towards yourself and others - How to stop beating yourself up and develop a more compassionate self - The psychology of archetypes, the dangers of inflation and how to avoid being manipulated by charismatic leaders - Paul’s advice for aspiring psychologists Buy the book: https://amzn.to/2IbIfJD Learn more about the Compassionate Mind Foundation: https://compassionatemind.co.uk/ About The Weekend University: The Weekend University aims to make the best psychology lectures available to the general public. To do this, we organise 'lecture days', once per month, where you get a full day of talks from leading psychologists, authors and university professors. To keep updated on upcoming events, new lectures and podcasts, you can sign up for the mailing list at http://bit.ly/new-talks

Professor Paul Gilbert, a renowned clinical psychologist, discusses the science of compassion and its application in alleviating suffering. Topics include core foundations of Compassion Focused Therapy, working with difficult clients, evolutionary origins of shame and guilt, managing depression, trauma memories, understanding evolution in health professions, and resources offered by the Compassionate Mind Foundation and Compassion-Focused Therapy.

In this discussion, Paul Gilbert, a pioneer of compassion-focused therapy, and Jeremy Holmes, a leading attachment expert, dive deep into the nuances of therapeutic dynamics. They explore the critical distinction between 'safety' and 'safeness' in relationships and how early attachment influences emotional growth. They emphasize the role of compassion in fostering connection and well-being, underscoring how attachment shapes our capacity for empathy. Their insights make a compelling case for integrating compassion in psychotherapy and caring relationships.

In this engaging conversation, expert Paul Gilbert delves into the complexities of the mind and emotional regulation. He reveals that we don't actually control our emotions—our brains were wired for certain responses long before we had any say. Gilbert discusses the concept of the shadow self, the evolutionary origins of feelings like shame and fear, and why awareness of these emotions is crucial. He encourages listeners to work with their feelings instead of resisting them, offering insightful strategies for self-compassion.

In a compelling conversation, Paul Gilbert, a trailblazing psychologist and the mind behind Compassion Focused Therapy, shares his unique journey. He reveals that his compassion was born from rage and challenges the misconception that compassion is weakness. The discussion delves into the evolution of compassion as a courageous strength essential for healing, backed by neuroscience. Gilbert emphasizes mindfulness and self-compassion as tools for overcoming self-criticism and highlights the profound connection between compassion and emotional well-being, illustrating how we can rewire our brains for kindness.