How do you stay sober for years after tsunami and war-related PTSD? In this powerful episode of Breaking Through Therapy, host Dr. Esther Cole sits down with Beth Ashley-Smith, a psychotherapist specialising in trauma, addiction, and ADHD; and her former client, “Rob”, a journalist and war correspondent who battled PTSD, alcohol addiction, anger and suicidal intent.

Rob shares his deeply personal journey from witnessing mass casualties as a journalist in Thailand in the tsunami of 2004, to losing himself in addiction and anger; and ultimately finding hope through therapy, 12-step fellowship groups, and spirituality.

Beth and Dr. Cole explore the complexities of PTSD, the stigma surrounding male mental health, and the challenges of embracing faith in recovery, whilst being a parent of small children. Rob reflects on his resistance to therapy, his biggest breakthroughs, and how his perspective on spirituality shifted over time.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with addiction, faith or anger following traumatic events, as well as for mental health professionals looking to better understand the lived experiences of their clients.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Breaking Through Therapy, leave a review, share this episode and follow us on social media for more impactful conversations on mental health and resilience. This podcast supports NHS Charities Together, funding projects to improve healthcare for all. Donate the cost of a therapy session or whatever you can to help us reach our goal of £10,000 this year. Visit the link in the show notes to contribute!

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Resources:

Bessel van der Kolk (2014) - The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.

Contact Beth Ashley-Smith:

https://www.bethanyashleysmith.co.uk

Beth Ashley-Smith Instagram

Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice®

Lifespan BOSS Coaching

Dr. Esther Cole - Linkedin

Lifespan Psychology Instagram

Lifespan Psychology LinkedIn

Lifespan Psychology Facebook

Crisis Numbers:

NSPCC

Samaritans - 116 123

Childline - 0800 1111

CALM - 0800 585858

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: Bliss by Luke Bergs / bergscloud (No Copyright Music)