In this compelling episode of Breaking Through Therapy, Dr. Esther Cole interviews James and his therapist, Beth Ashley-Smith, to discuss the profound impact of men’s inpatient groups in recovering from addictions, and healing from childhood sexual assault.

James shares his brave journey of confronting this traumatic event from his childhood, which shaped his relationships, and fuelled his struggles with depression and substance misuse. With the support of therapy and a dedicated men’s group, he found the courage to face his past, embrace vulnerability, and rediscover joy and authenticity, in a supportive Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) community.

Beth Ashley-Smith offers valuable insights into therapeutic approaches which include Spirituality; and models like Internal Family Systems (IFS), which guide clients in understanding and balancing their inner emotional dynamics and competing needs.

James shares how he learned to relinquish the need for control, a coping mechanism born from trauma; and how he found a path to healing, personal growth, and self-discovery, including embracing his neurodiversity.

Episode Themes -

• Childhood Sexual Trauma: The long-term impact and the challenges of addressing buried memories.
• Addiction Recovery: The process of healing and rebuilding self-trust.
• Therapy and Vulnerability: The critical role of individual and group therapeutic relationships and community support.
• Men’s Mental Health: Breaking the stigma, encouraging open discussions and sponsoring other men in AA communities.

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Resources -

NSPCC - Legal guidance for everyone, for how to report child sexual abuse https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/reporting-abuse/what-to-do-child-reveals-abuse/

Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice® - https:/www.lifespanpsychology.co.uk/referral

Lifespan 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...