In this transformative episode of Breaking Through Therapy, we explore Claire’s journey of resilience and post-traumatic growth following life-threatening bariatric surgery. UKCP Registered Psychotherapist and nutrition and lifestyle therapist, Joanna Oates, was able to help Claire understand that binge eating was connected to a number of very traumatic events since childhood, including sexual assault.
Claire shares her powerful story, navigating the emotional landscape, delving into past traumas and finding healthier coping mechanisms. Joanna Oates helps Claire confront her relationship with food, and emotional triggers, highlighting the profound insights and breakthroughs she achieved during therapy.
Through innovative therapeutic exercises, including a “food and mood diary” and a cathartic lifeline exercise, which charts weights and dates, Claire discovers the roots of her emotional eating and reclaims control over her life.
From a profound journey of self-discovery during the COVID-19 lockdown, to pursuing a newfound culinary passion, Claire's story captures the resilience and brilliance of the human spirit, and power of the client-therapist relationship.
This episode is an inspiring exploration of the intersection of trauma, eating disorders, mental well-being, and the joy of cooking. Tune in as we uncover the healing power of self-compassion, personal boundaries, and culinary empowerment, particularly for those with neurodiverse feeding requirements.
Memorable Quotes
"Therapy isn't just about healing; it's about discovering the strength to reshape your life." Joanna Oates
"Our relationship with food can be our greatest teacher when we learn to listen with compassion." Claire
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Breaking Through Therapy, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more impactful conversations on mental health, resilience and the client-therapist relationship.
Please give generously to NHS Charities Together via our Just Giving page: Lifespan Psychology's fundraiser for NHS Charities Together
Resources:
British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine - https://bant.org.uk
Minnesota Starvation Study (1944) by Ancel Keys demonstrates how starvation and food restriction in prison settings can lead to a lasting preoccupation with food.
Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice® - https://www.lifespanpsychology.co.uk
Lifespan Business Owner Support Squad (BOSS) Coaching - https://bosstoday.co.uk
Dr Esther Cole - Linkedin Profile - http://linkedin.com/in/dr-esther-cole-multi-award-winning-consultant-psychologist-3b8b0061
Lifespan Psychology Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lifespan_psychology/?hl=en
Lifespan Psychology LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/company/lifespan-psychology-the-diverse-practice%C2%AE?trk=similar-pages
Lifespan Psychology Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/people/Lifespan-Psychology/100089486434005/
Crisis Numbers:
NSPCC - https://www.nspcc.org.uk/
Samaritans - 116 123 - https://www.samaritans.org/
Childline - 0800 1111 - https://www.childline.org.uk/
CALM - 0800 585858 - https://www.thecalmzone.net/
If you are in need of urgent assistance for your mental health, please contact your GP or GP Out of Hours number on 111, call 999 or attend your nearest accident & emergency (A&E) department.
If you are listening from overseas, please find out the local equivalent charities and government mental health services in your country.
Theme Tune Credit: Bliss by Luke Bergs / bergscloud (No Copyright Music)
