Therapy Works

In this heartfelt conversation, Julia is joined by Brendan Cox, a passionate campaigner and activist dedicated to counter-terrorism and community cohesion. Brendan is also the father of two bereaved children, a role he assumed tragically after the murder of his wife, MP Jo Cox, in 2016.From listening to this conversation, you'll quickly discover Brendan's emotional thoughtfulness and intelligence as he shares his journey, providing insights on several crucial aspects of life:KEY DISCUSSION POINTS:  The Unfixable Tragedy: Brendan opens up about the profound impact of Jo's death and how he grappled with the painful realization that this tragedy was unfixable. It forced him to confront the limits of his power and ultimately surrender to them. A Clear Purpose: Amid the complexity and trauma, the need to focus on his children gave Brendan a clear sense of purpose and meaning in his life. This newfound clarity motivated him to strive to be "a better dad every day." Embracing the Unvarnished Truth: Brendan learned that, for himself and his children, honesty, no matter how difficult, was far better than a lie or false protection. This unwavering trust they built in one another prevented them from being manipulated by external forces providing conflicting information. Living Life to the Fullest: Brendan shares his philosophy of living life to the full, a commitment to "burning the candle at both ends and sort of throwing ourselves into adventures." This approach infused him with the energy to not only persevere but to find joy, adventure, and inspiration in his role as a parent. The Power of Community: The Cox family found solace and strength in their community. Being known by neighbors, feeling safe, and fostering connections played a vital role in their healing and growth. Brendan also reflects on the evidence of how a community can act as a safeguard against mental illness, violence, and extremism. A Call to Connect: As you listen to this conversation, you may find ideas to strengthen your connection to your community and the thought-provoking question: "Out of 10, how connected do I feel?"In the face of adversity and loss, Brendan Cox's story is a testament to the power of embracing tragedy, finding support in community, and nurturing compassion.Support Links: For further exploration, Julia recommends Julian Abel's book, "The Compassion Project" and encourages you to explore the concept of compassionate communities. Compassionate Communities: https://compassionate-communitiesuk.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the profound impact of our environment and our familial history on our lives. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Azariah Hope, a remarkable individual whose journey of self-discovery and transformation unveils the power of love, belief, and resilience.KEY DISCUSSION POINTS:Azariah's Personal Journey Azariah opens up about her role as a parent to four children, highlighting the unique connection between her experience and the histories of her mother and grandparents. Her story unfolds as a testament to how our personal narratives are deeply intertwined with the generations that precede us. The Influence of 'Normal' We explore the concept that our perception of "normal" profoundly shapes our decisions and behaviors. Azariah eloquently explains how we cannot break free from patterns we aren't even aware of until we're given the opportunity to see life from a different perspective. Healing and Transformation Azariah shares her personal struggle to heal and grow while facing the demands of a systemic world. She candidly discusses how her journey inward was a necessary step before she could begin building a meaningful relationship with her own children, two of whom were adopted. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that the pace of personal growth cannot always align with societal expectations. The Power of Support Amidst the challenges, Azariah found hope and transformation through the support of others. She reflects on the pivotal role played by one social worker who believed in her, understood her, and fought for her. Ultimately, it was the love and commitment of her foster family that saved and transformed her life. Azariah leaves us with a profound message of inspiration. Her story reminds us that, no matter how bleak or traumatic our beginnings may be, transformation and growth are always possible. Through her remarkable journey, she encourages us to believe in our own potential for change and to recognise the significance of love and connection in our lives.This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self.Find Julia:Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this profoundly moving episode, we have the honor of conversing with Lemn Sissay OBE FRSL, a distinguished British author and broadcaster. Lemn's remarkable journey takes us from his role as the official poet of the 2012 London Olympics to his tenure as the Chancellor of the University of Manchester from 2015 to 2022. However, beyond these accolades, lies a life story that is both heart-wrenching and awe-inspiring.Key Discussion Points:The Emotional Hiroshima: Lemn describes the profound impact of his childhood experiences, particularly the 'emotional Hiroshima' he endured as a 12-year-old child placed into care.Resilience Through Words: Discover how Lemn found solace and resilience through poetry, one word at a time, allowing him to claim his presence in the world with the declaration, "I am here now."Recognizing Value: Lemn challenges our perception of what we value, highlighting how we often fail to recognize the true importance of our possessions until they are taken from us.The Power of Touch: Explore the significance of physical touch and the contrasting experiences of Lemn's lack of contact during his formative years and his grandmother's lifetime of tactile connections, which left her alone in her later years.Forgiveness Liberates: Lemn delves into the transformative power of forgiveness, emphasizing that true forgiveness goes beyond shallow words; it liberates the spirit.Embracing Accountability: The importance of accountability in the healing and growth process is discussed, shedding light on the path toward personal and collective transformation.Lemn leaves us with a thought-provoking question: Can we find inner peace and then work to change the world?This expansive and profound conversation is an emotional rollercoaster, evoking tears, anger, outrage, laughter, and ultimately, a deep sense of love. Prepare to be moved and inspired by Lemn Sissay's incredible journey. Don't miss this episode.Important Links:Article that Emily referenced: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/sep/21/care-experienced-children-eight-times-more-likely-enter-youth-justice-system-englandThe Forgiveness Project: https://www.theforgivenessproject.comFostering Support Links:The Fostering Network: https://www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/Barnardos: https://www.barnardos.org.uk/foster Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode, Julia is joined by accomplished author Amanda Prowse. Her success story is as inspiring as it is relatable. Despite her tremendous achievements, Amanda has suffered from imposter syndrome, and today, she opens up about its roots, including the impact of class. She discusses how she defied low expectations. and her searing experiences as a mother to her mentally ill son.Key Discussion Points:Overcoming Expectations:  Amanda shares her personal experiences of navigating criticism and low expectation and the role books played in boosting her confidence and igniting her imagination. Recognising individual talents as a pathway to resilience in challenging times. A Mother’s Heartache: Amanda’s emotional journey as a mother, addressing her son Josh’s battle with depression and suicidal thoughts. Insights into the enduring impact of mental illness on families. Coping strategies and ongoing lessons Amanda and her family are learning while navigating her son’s depression. Shifting Perspectives on Therapy: Amanda’s evolving relationship with the concept of therapy. The transformative power of seeking professional help in dealing with mental health challenges. Find Amanda: Website: https://www.amandaprowse.com/Books: http://www.amandaprowse.com/books/Instagram: @mrsamandaprowseSupport links:MIND: www.mind.org.uk YOUNG MINDS: www.youngminds.org.uk/SHOUT: https://giveusashout.org/ BACP: www.bacp.co.ukFind Julia:Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/Books: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/books/everyfamilyhasastoryInstagram: @juliasamuelmbeBamford are offering 15% off all bookings until the end of the year. Book your treatment online at bamford.com and use the code 'THERAPY WORKS’ to access your exclusive discount. If you would like to know more about membership of The Club by Bamford, a new luxury private members club in the Cotswolds that provides a 360º wellness experience incorporating health, fitness, and holistic well-being, please visit bamfordclub.com or email applications@bamfordclub.comThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trinny Woodall, a remarkable beauty entrepreneur, opens up about her experiences with fear, being a woman in a man's world, and the significance of our homes. The conversation also covers women's relationship to money, the importance of family and chosen family, and embracing unwanted outcomes. They discuss the fear of loss when a child leaves home and the need for financial education for women.

Hello Therapy Works listeners! I hope you all enjoyed Season 3 of the podcast and if you happen to be tuning in for the first time I do recommend that you go back and listen to the amazing conversations I’ve had with my wonderful guests. Whilst we are in between seasons and taking a little summer break, I wanted to answer some questions about therapy that I get asked on a daily basis. As you all seem to be loving the segment with my psychotherapist daughters, I’ve asked Emily and Sophie to help me answer a question today and that is - what are the biggest myths about therapy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hello Therapy Works listeners! I hope you all enjoyed Season 3 of the podcast and if you happen to be tuning in for the first time I do recommend that you go back and listen to the amazing conversations I’ve had with my wonderful guests. Whilst we are in between seasons and taking a little summer break, I wanted to answer some questions about therapy that I get asked on a daily basis. As you all seem to be loving the segment with my psychotherapist daughters, I’ve asked Emily and Sophie to help me answer a question today and that is - when do you know it's time to see a therapist?This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hello Therapy Works listeners! I hope you all enjoyed Season 3 of the podcast and if you happen to be tuning in for the first time I do recommend that you go back and listen to the amazing conversations I’ve had with my wonderful guests. Whilst we are in between seasons and taking a little summer break, I wanted to answer some questions about therapy that I get asked on a daily basis. As you all seem to be loving the segment with my psychotherapist daughters, I’ve asked Emily and Sophie to help me answer a question today and that is - how do you find the right therapist? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vanessa describes with great honesty her experience of living with an alcoholic husband. The difficult decision to end her marriage and the resulting challenges she faced. Her loneliness, along with the necessary reframing of her future.45% of marriages end in divorce which can lead us to treat it as ‘part of life.’ In this conversation we hear how very personal that experience is, and what a loss.In this episode we discuss:  What led to the end of her 8 year relationship and how painful and hard it was to acknowledge that it was the end. Vanessa describes her loss for the future she imagined, and the fear this new unknown engendered in her. It was the first time she felt she had failed, and how difficult that was. As Vanessa experienced her loss it took her to the point of not wanting to wake up in the morning. Given how labile and emotional the separation was, the actual divorce was mechanical and discombobulating. How over time she managed to create a new version of herself. Vanessa couldn’t control what she felt, but she found that she had agency in building her resilience. Vanessa was helped by her toolkit of resources: exercise, friends, parents and setting goals like the marathon. Through this she did find growth and discovered she could survive difficult challenges. Links mentioned in episode: Sophie mentions the Therapist Uncensored Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/therapist-uncensored-podcast/id1146941306   Julia mentions a paper by Jeffrey Arnett on Emerging Adulthood: http://www.jeffreyarnett.com/ARNETT_Emerging_Adulthood_theory.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Harewood is a celebrated British actor, presenter and author.I was very moved by this honest and courageous conversation. I both learnt and felt enriched by it – as you will. It is a must listen. We discussed many important issues: David recalls the years of racist abuse that pulled him apart.  How important it is to have an integrated sense of identity and the struggle he experienced being black on the outside but white on the inside.  The importance of holding clashing identities in the container of one’s being.  How having a psychotic episode can be traumatic to remember, or shameful, so we try to forget it but it haunts us. We also touch on the power of revisiting the experience, which can bring growth and a sense of agency.  How influential our social environment, trans-generational trauma and stress is on mental health. How the history of racism in the UK and USA is different, and we don’t talk about our links to slavery in the UK. How in daring to face the past, it is possible to reset one’s sense of identity and build a strong foundation from which to go forward.   Books mentioned in episode: Maybe I Don't Belong Here by David HarewoodThis Is Not America: Why Black Lives in Britain Matter by Tomiwa Owolade Watching The English by Kate FoxDavid's Documentary on Psychosis: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00052mnSupport links:Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/psychosis/useful-contacts/Rethink Mental Illness: https://www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/support-groupsTurning Point: https://www.turning-point.co.uk/services/mental-health/friends-and-family-mental-health.html  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices