How do trauma, addiction, and family dysfunction shape recovery and emotional healing? 

Heather Hayes, internationally recognised interventionist, Licensed Counselor, and founder of Heather R. Hayes & Associates, joins Abdullah Boulad for a powerful conversation on addiction, trauma, recovery, and the hidden emotional struggles behind high-functioning families.

In this episode, Heather reflects on her personal journey through addiction and recovery, growing up in a chaotic family system despite material privilege, and how those experiences shaped her life’s work helping individuals and families navigate complex mental health and substance use challenges. Together, they explore the emotional roots of addiction, the impact of family dysfunction, sensitivity and self-esteem, and why unresolved trauma often sits beneath destructive behaviours.

The conversation also dives into the evolution of addiction interventions, the importance of compassion over blame, and the parallels between family intervention work and hostage negotiation. Heather shares insights from her experience training with FBI hostage negotiators, explaining how communication, emotional safety, and trust can transform difficult conversations and motivate change.

This episode offers a thoughtful perspective on addiction, trauma, emotional regulation, family systems, and the human side of recovery.

About Heather: Heather Hayes is a Licensed Counselor, Board Registered Interventionist, and founder of Heather R. Hayes & Associates, with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and complex mental health challenges.

00:00:00 - Growing Up in a Chaotic Family and the Early Roots of Addiction
00:02:28 - Heather’s Journey to Sobriety and Entering Rehab in 1982
00:03:35 - Why Heather Dedicated Her Life to Helping Others Recover
00:04:40 - How Wealth and Privilege Can Increase Addiction Risk
00:06:22 - The Emotional Instability Hidden Behind Material Success
00:09:05 - Toxic Family Dynamics and Their Impact on Mental Health
00:11:13 - Low Self-Esteem, Social Pressure, and Substance Abuse
00:14:19 - Why Highly Sensitive People Are More Vulnerable to Addiction
00:16:43 - Studying Psychology to Understand Addiction and Heal Herself
00:19:07 - The Breaking Point That Led Heather to Seek Treatment
00:20:58 - Working with Trauma, Eating Disorders, and Heroin Addiction
00:24:05 - The Evolution of Modern Addiction Interventions
00:26:10 - Inside Heather’s Training with FBI Hostage Negotiators
00:28:46 - The Biggest Mistakes Families Make During Interventions
00:32:12 - The Power of “I Feel” Statements in Difficult Conversations
00:35:52 - Addiction Intervention as a Form of Human Negotiation
00:39:06 - Why Family Denial Makes Recovery More Difficult
00:44:05 - What True Success in Addiction Recovery Really Looks Like
01:00:15 - Trauma Bonds, Stockholm Syndrome, and Dysfunctional Relationships
01:16:36 - Heather’s Message of Hope on Mental Health and Communication

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
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https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/  

Follow Heather Hayes:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-r-hayes/

You can order Abdullah’s books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF?ccs_id=c64f2588-7eb1-4592-b4d1-647a0f379b51

Follow THE BALANCE Rehab Clinic: 
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#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #trauma #communication #mentalhealthpodcast #wellness #wellnessjourney #health #healing #wellbeing #traumainformed #love #mentalhealth #recovery #support #addictionrecovery #interview

Founder & CEO of THE BALANCE Rehab Clinic | Book Author & Podcast Host of "Living a Life in Balance" | Global Expert in Mental Health & Wellbeing

I lead one of the world’s most exclusive mental health and addiction treatment brands, helping global leaders, creatives, and high-net-worth individuals find deep healing and personal transformation. Through my podcast, I explore the intersection of psychology, purpose, and wellbeing.

This Podcast is dedicated to meaningful conversations about mental health, well-being, and the challenges we face today. It is part of my ongoing commitment to supporting people in navigating complex emotional and psychological struggles. Through open discussions with leading experts in the industry, I aim to break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and offer valuable insights that can make a real difference.

https://thebalance.clinic

How much of our adult relationships are shaped by the families we grew up in?

Fiona Yassin, psychotherapist and Founder of The Wave Clinic, joins Abdullah Boulad, Founder and CEO of THE BALANCE Rehab Clinic, for a grounded conversation on how early family experiences continue to influence the way we relate, communicate, and navigate relationships later in life.

In this episode, Fiona shares personal reflections on childhood trauma, family secrecy, and the path that led her to psychotherapy. Together, they explore how trauma shapes family dynamics, the role of recovery in therapeutic work, and the model of Family Emotional Governance she developed to better understand complex family systems.

The conversation moves into the realities couples and families face today; communication breakdowns, cultural differences, expectations in relationships, and the pressures of modern life. They also discuss practical tools such as reflective listening, the role of transparency in families, and how individuals can build healthier, more conscious relationships over time.

This episode offers a thoughtful perspective on family systems, emotional patterns, and the work required to create lasting change.

About Fiona: She is the founder and clinical director at The Wave Clinic. She is a U.K. and internationally registered Psychotherapist and Accredited Clinical Supervisor (U.K. and UNCG). Fiona is EMDR trained (EMDRIA) and a practicing Trauma therapist.

00:00:00 - Childhood Trauma, Family Secrets & Early Life 
00:01:11 - Motivation to Become a Therapist & Path to Healing 
00:07:07 - Trauma’s Impact on Family Dynamics & Secrecy 
00:09:23 - Entering Recovery & Early Therapeutic Work 
00:10:52 - Recovery’s Influence on Therapy Practice & Approach 
00:12:57 - Developing a Unique Model: Family Emotional Governance 
00:15:56 - Case Study: Cultural Clashes, Loneliness & Infidelity 
00:19:18 - High-Stakes Family Crises & Intensive Interventions 
00:22:23 - Communication Breakdowns & Emotional Disconnection 
00:24:29 - Premarital Preparation & Understanding Family Backgrounds 
00:27:51 - Cultural Differences & Equality in Relationships 
00:30:07 - Individual vs Joint Therapy Approaches in Couples Work 
00:31:38 - Transparency, Secrets & Family Constellation Work 
00:36:14 - Gender Differences in Communication & Misunderstandings 
00:38:13 - Reflective Listening & Practical Communication Skills 
00:42:43 - Validation, Attention & Pressures of Modern Family Life 
00:45:04 - Swipe Culture vs Commitment & Value of Relationships 
00:47:49 - Managing Expectations & Embracing Imperfection 
00:51:21 - Self-Reflection, Growth & Lifelong Personal Development 
00:56:49 - Healthy vs Unhealthy Relationships & When to Walk Away

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/  
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/  

Follow Fiona Yassin:
https://fionayassin.com/ 

You can order Abdullah’s books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF?ccs_id=c64f2588-7eb1-4592-b4d1-647a0f379b51

Follow THE BALANCE Rehab Clinic: 
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https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/  

#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #porn #communication #mentalhealthpodcast #wellness #wellnessjourney #health #healing #wellbeing #traumainformed #love #mentalhealth #recovery #support #addictionrecovery #interview #relationship #couple #families

Family dynamics shape far more than we often realise. What is left unspoken, carried in silence, or hidden within a family system can continue to influence relationships, behaviour, and emotional patterns across generations.

In many cases, people are not only responding to the present moment, but to histories that were never fully understood or expressed.

In this episode of Living a Life in Balance, Abdullah Boulad is joined by Caroline Curtis Dolby for a grounded conversation on trauma, family systems, and the realities of relationships.

Topics explored in this conversation include:

• How early trauma, addiction, and secrecy shape family systems
• Why people within the same family respond differently to the same experiences
• The role of lived experience in shaping therapeutic work
• Family Emotional Governance® and working with families as a system
• Communication breakdown in couples and the impact of unspoken issues
• Cultural differences and how they influence relationships
• Why many couples operate as individuals instead of a partnership
• Common relationship challenges including addiction, affairs, and conflict
• What healthy relationships are built on: respect, loyalty, communication, and support
• Why marriage requires responsibility and long-term commitment
• The role of family rituals, shared time, and structure
• The importance of continued self-awareness and personal growth

This conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on relationships, not as something to perfect, but as something to understand, work through, and take responsibility for over time.

About Caroline: London-based psychotherapist and founder of Belgravia Therapy, with extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She specialises in complex family dynamics, including high-conflict divorce and parental alienation, and is also experienced in trauma and addiction.

00:00:00 – Childhood Trauma, Family Secrets & Addiction
00:01:11 – How Trauma Shaped Her Path to Therapy
00:07:07 – Why Family Members Experience Trauma Differently
00:09:23 – Recovery, Addiction & Early Work in Therapy
00:10:52 – How Personal Recovery Shapes a Therapist
00:12:57 – Family Emotional Governance® Explained
00:15:56 – Relationship Crisis: Loneliness, Control & Infidelity
00:19:18 – High-Conflict Families: Addiction, Gambling & Risk
00:22:23 – Why Communication Breaks Down in Relationships
00:24:29 – Why Couples Should Do Therapy Before Marriage
00:27:51 – Cultural Differences & Relationship Conflict
00:30:07 – Why Couples Need Individual + Joint Therapy
00:31:38 – The Impact of Secrets & Hidden Family Histories

00:36:14 – Men vs Women: Communication Differences Explained
00:38:13 – How to Actually Listen in a Relationship
00:42:43 – Validation, Pressure & Modern Relationship Stress
00:45:04 – “Throwaway Culture” & Why Relationships Fail
00:47:49 – Expectations vs Reality in Relationships
00:53:26 – Marriage: Commitment, Reality & Misconceptions
00:56:49 – Healthy vs Unhealthy Relationships: Key Signs

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/  

Follow Caroline Curtis:
https://www.instagram.com/lurleenshoo/

You can order Abdullah’s books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF?ccs_id=c64f2588-7eb1-4592-b4d1-647a0f379b51

Follow THE BALANCE Rehab Clinic: 
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Chronic pain affects millions of people around the world. Yet many patients are still told that if scans look normal, the problem must be “in their head.”

In reality, chronic pain is far more complex. It involves the brain, the nervous system, emotional regulation, and the way the body responds to stress and trauma.

In this episode of Living a Life in Balance, Abdullah Boulad is joined by Dr. Mel Pohl for a deep conversation about chronic pain, addiction medicine, and the mind-body connection.

Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Pohl explains why traditional medical models often struggle to treat chronic pain effectively. The discussion explores how addiction medicine intersected with pain treatment during the opioid epidemic, and why a deeper understanding of the nervous system is essential for long-term recovery.

The conversation also examines how trauma, stress, loneliness, and emotional regulation influence pain perception. Dr. Pohl discusses the role of the vagus nerve, Polyvagal Theory, and why safety and co-regulation are critical factors in healing.

Rather than focusing on quick fixes, this episode looks at the gradual process of restoring balance within the nervous system and helping individuals regain agency over their lives.

Topics explored in this conversation include:

• The evolution of addiction treatment and lessons from the opioid crisis
• Why high-functioning professionals are not immune to addiction
• The relationship between chronic pain, trauma, and the nervous system
• How thoughts, stress, and attention shape the experience of pain
• Polyvagal Theory and the role of the vagus nerve in healing
• Why integrative approaches are changing how chronic pain is treated

This conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on one of the most misunderstood conditions in modern medicine.

About Dr. Mel Pohl: Dr. Mel is a physician specializing in addiction medicine and chronic pain treatment. With decades of clinical experience, his work focuses on the intersection between substance use disorders, pain management, and the nervous system, emphasizing integrative approaches that address both the biological and psychological dimensions of healing.

00:00:00 — Dr. Mel Pohl’s Path into Addiction Medicine
00:01:05 — Why Doctors Specialize in Addiction Treatment
00:01:29 — Early Addiction Treatment and Aversion Therapy
00:04:57 — The Opioid Epidemic and Chronic Pain
00:05:35 — Addiction Among High-Functioning Professionals
00:08:21 — Recovery Models and Alcoholics Anonymous
00:10:27 — The Evolution of Addiction Treatment
00:13:10 — Why There Are No Quick Fixes in Addiction Recovery
00:13:41 — Dr. Mel Pohl’s Personal Experience with Chronic Pain
00:16:06 — Why Back Surgery Often Fails Chronic Pain Patients
00:18:29 — What Chronic Pain Really Is
00:21:16 — How the Brain Influences Pain Perception
00:25:07 — Psychological Approaches to Chronic Pain
00:28:16 — The Vagus Nerve and Polyvagal Theory
00:32:29 — Trauma, Co-Regulation, and the Nervous System
00:34:28 — Placebo, Nocebo, and the Power of the Doctor-Patient Relationship
00:39:19 — Integrative Medicine and the Mind-Body Connection
00:42:50 — Self-Regulation Tools for Chronic Pain
00:49:18 — Trauma, Stress, and Chronic Pain
00:57:38 — The Future of Chronic Pain Treatment

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/  
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/  

Follow Dr Mel Pohl:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-pohl-4b104914/

You can order Abdullah’s books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF?ccs_id=c64f2588-7eb1-4592-b4d1-647a0f379b51

Follow The Balance Rehab Clinic: 
https://www.linkedin.

What is the difference between a high sex drive and compulsive sexual behaviour? How does internet pornography affect the brain, relationships, and emotional regulation? And why are more people seeking help for porn and sex addiction than ever before?
 
In this in-depth conversation, psychotherapist and addiction specialist Paula Hall shares her clinical perspective on compulsive sexual behaviour, pornography addiction, and the psychological mechanisms that drive these patterns. She reflects on her professional journey from marketing into psychotherapy and explains what led her to specialize in working with individuals and couples affected by sex and porn addiction.
 
Drawing on decades of therapeutic experience, Paula Hall explores the growing impact of digital pornography, the emotional and neurological factors that contribute to compulsive behaviour, and why shame and misunderstanding often prevent people from seeking help. She explains the difference between high libido and addiction, the role of stress and emotional regulation, and how early exposure to online pornography can affect adolescent brain development and relationship expectations later in life.
 
The conversation explores:
• Compulsive sexual behaviour and the debate around sex addiction
• The neurological impact of internet pornography and dopamine
• Why men are more commonly affected by porn addiction
• Early exposure to pornography and adolescent brain vulnerability
• Recognizing the warning signs of compulsive sexual behaviour
• Shame, stigma, and cultural misunderstandings around porn use
• The impact of pornography on relationships and intimacy

This episode offers both clinical insight and practical understanding for anyone interested in behavioural addiction, relationship health, digital culture, and the evolving challenges of pornography in modern society.
 
About Paula Hall:
Paula Hall is a UK-based psychotherapist, author, and leading specialist in the treatment of sex and pornography addiction. She is a Senior Accredited Sexual and Relationship Psychotherapist at The Laurel Centre and the Founder of Pivotal Recovery CIC. Paula is also a widely recognized author and broadcaster who has written extensively on addiction, relationships, and recovery.

00:00 Sex & Porn Addiction Statistics and Global Impact
01:05 Introducing Dr. Paula Hall | Sex and Porn Addiction Specialist
03:13 Dr. Paula Hall’s Journey from Marketing to Sex Therapy
05:29 Why She Specialized in Sex Addiction Therapy
06:32 Is Sex Addiction Real? Understanding Compulsive Sexual Behaviour
08:45 Compulsive Sexual Behaviour vs High Libido
10:24 Emotional Regulation, Stress, and Coping Through Sexual Behaviour
12:08 Why Men Are More Affected by Porn and Sex Addiction
13:36 Recognizing the Signs of Porn and Sex Addiction
16:47 Internet Pornography and the Rise of Digital Addiction
18:31 Porn Addiction vs Sex Addiction
21:41 Why Porn Addiction Cases Are Increasing
24:10 Impact of Pornography on Young Adults and Relationships
27:18 Early Exposure to Porn and Adolescent Brain Vulnerability
31:34 Parenting, Prevention, and Digital Awareness
35:12 Shame, Misconceptions, and Cultural Conversations About Porn
41:41 Porn Addiction, Dopamine, and the Brain
45:52 Treatment and Recovery for Porn and Sex Addiction
50:33 Relationship Trauma, Disclosure, and Rebuilding Trust
57:00 Long-Term Recovery, Sex Positivity, and Final Advice

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/  
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/  

Follow Dr Paula Hall:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-hall/

You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Abdullah-Boul

What are the lasting effects of childhood trauma, generational addiction, chronic stress, and unresolved grief on adult mental health? 

In this in-depth conversation, mental health and diagnostic expert Dr. James Flowers shares the personal experiences that shaped his clinical philosophy and approach to integrative psychiatry. Growing up in South Texas in a family affected by dysfunction, alcoholism, emotional adversity, and repeated loss, he reflects on how early life environments shape identity, coping patterns, overachievement, and vulnerability across generations. 

With more than twenty five years of experience in the evaluation and treatment of chronic pain and co occurring addiction, Dr. Flowers explains why modern psychiatry often moves too quickly toward diagnosis and medication without fully understanding root causes. He discusses the risks of fragmented care and standardized treatment models, and introduces his comprehensive 360 degree psychiatric evaluation approach known as the Living MRI. This model integrates medical testing, neuropsychology, hormones, nutrition, inflammation, brain imaging, and longitudinal assessment to understand the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. 

The conversation explores: 

• Generational trauma and addiction cycles 
• Emotional abuse and high functioning coping patterns 
• Workaholism as a trauma adaptation 
• Complicated grief and cumulative loss 
• The connection between chronic pain and addiction 
• Neuroplasticity and brain healing 
• Holistic and integrative psychiatric care 
• Affordable residential treatment models 
• Boundaries, self care, and spirituality in long term recovery 

This episode offers both personal insight and clinical depth for anyone interested in trauma psychology, addiction recovery, brain health, and the evolving future of modern mental health treatment. 

About James Flowers: For more than 25 years, Dr. James has been one of the most recognized and respected names in the field of chronic pain, pain recovery, and addiction. With his broad educational background and extensive experience in both the evaluation and treatment of chronic pain and co-occurring addiction, he is recognized as an expert. 

00:00:00 Introduction to Dr. James Flowers and his clinical mission 
00:02:17 Childhood in South Texas and early family dysfunction 
00:04:56 Generational addiction and emotional abuse 
00:06:03 Loss, workaholism, and family instability 
00:08:17 Death, grief, and academic resilience 
00:12:32 Healthy coping mechanisms and overachievement 
00:14:53 Therapy, early intervention, and lifelong support 
00:18:03 Understanding family dysfunction and trauma cycles 
00:21:56 Trauma, wealth, and generational behavioral patterns 
00:25:34 Choosing psychology and psychiatry as a calling 
00:29:26 The evolution of modern mental health resources 
00:34:04 The risks of fast psychiatric diagnoses 
00:37:31 The Living MRI comprehensive psychiatric evaluation 
00:42:02 Moving beyond standardized mental health treatment 
00:43:14 The Jay Flowers Health Institute model 
00:48:32 Accessibility and barriers to quality mental health care 
00:51:28 Building an affordable residential treatment model 
00:52:42 Vision, purpose, and manifestation in clinical practice 
01:07:38 Neuroplasticity and healing the brain after trauma 
01:13:03 Boundaries, balance, and sustainable self care 
01:21:01 Spirituality, compassion, and final reflections 

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/  
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/  

Follow Dr James Flowers: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesflowersphd/ 

Grief does not end. It changes us. 

In this honest and deeply personal conversation, grief expert and licensed therapist Edy Nathan joins Abdullah Boulad to explore what it truly means to live with loss instead of trying to move beyond it. 

They discuss how grief lives in the body, how trauma reshapes identity, and how the protective patterns we build to survive can follow us long after the loss itself. From trauma stored in the nervous system to the myth of closure, this episode offers a compassionate and grounded perspective on grief therapy and emotional healing. 

Edy reflects on losing her partner at twenty-seven and how that experience shaped her life’s work in trauma recovery, psychodrama, and creative arts therapy. Rather than promoting the idea of getting over grief, she introduces integration as a more honest and sustainable path forward. 

Grief is not something we erase. 
It is something we learn to carry. 

In this episode, you will hear about: 

• How to process grief after loss 
• Trauma stored in the body and emotional armor 
• The impact of bullying, abuse, and early attachment wounds 
• Continuing bonds and staying connected to loved ones 
• Forgiveness, apology, and emotional repair 
• Identity changes after death, trauma, or sexuality shifts 
• Cultural attitudes toward grief and healing 
• Psychodrama and expressive therapy as trauma healing tools 
• Why receiving support can feel harder than asking for it 
• Integration versus closure in grief recovery 

If you are navigating grief, trauma, identity shifts, or searching for thoughtful mental health conversations, this episode offers insight that is both professional and deeply human. 

About Edy Nathan: A licensed therapist, grief specialist, author, and speaker known for her work in trauma integration and creative arts therapies. She combines psychodrama, experiential methods, and continuing bonds theory to help individuals process loss and reconnect with emotional safety. 

00:00:00 – Meet Edy Nathan, Grief Expert & Pioneer in the Creative Arts Therapies
00:01:46 – Theater, Perspective & Reframing Pain
00:03:05 – Loss at 27 & Awakening to Grief
00:05:19 – Trauma in the Body & Protective Weight
00:06:27 – Bullying, Abuse & the Meaning of Love
00:08:27 – Secrets, Safety & Clinical Work
00:09:03 – Love, Grief & Learning to Receive
00:12:06 – Mementos, Memory & Ongoing Bonds
00:15:54 – Forgiveness, Repair & Apologies
00:17:48 – Agoraphobia & The Search for Support
00:20:01 – Discovering Psychodrama & Play
00:25:01 – Creativity as Ancestral Healing
00:27:05 – Mask Work & Emotional Expression
00:29:32 – Clients, Grief & Amnesia of Love
00:31:31 – Inner Liberation & Negotiation Work
00:35:43 – Grief of Identity, Sexuality & Self
00:39:55 – Cultural Shifts in Grief Language
00:43:21 – Blueprints, Coping & Emotional Armor
00:47:54 – Integration Over Closure
00:52:59 – Myths, Movement & Interrupting Trauma
01:00:22 – Honoring Inner Magic & Final Words

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/ 
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/ 
 
Follow Edy Nathan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/edy-nathan/

You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Abdullah-Boulad/author/B0BC9S5TCF?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
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#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #grief #griefsupport #mentalhealthpodcast #wellness #wellnessjourney #health #healing #wellbeing #traum

Robin Lefever, psychiatrist and long-standing voice in addiction and mental health care, joins Abdullah Boulad for an honest and wide-ranging conversation on addiction, relapse, depression, trauma, and the long-term reality of treatment.

Robin speaks openly about his early experiences with substance use, the temporary relief addiction can bring, and how emotional vulnerability, social anxiety, and mental health struggles often sit underneath addictive behaviours. He reflects on relapse, self-harm, depressive episodes, and the complex journey from first asking for help to long-term stability.

The discussion looks at family systems, early intervention, harm reduction, therapeutic communities, power dynamics in clinics, and the importance of team culture in creating a safe therapeutic environment.

This episode also touches on suicidal ideation, mental health crises, neurodivergence, and the need for compassionate, human-centered care that goes beyond rigid models. 

About Robin:
Robin Lefever is a psychiatrist with decades of experience in addiction and mental health treatment. His work focuses on evidence-based care, therapeutic communities, and creating treatment environments that are supportive, ethical, and grounded in clinical reality.

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/ 
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/ 
 
Follow Robin Lefever:
https://www.facebook.com/robin.lefever/

You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/... 
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/  
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/ 
 
#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #wellness #wellnessjourney #health #healing #wellbeing #traumainformed #love #mentalhealth #recovery #support #safety #motivation #healthylifestyle #addictionrecovery

Johnny Graaff joined Abdullah Boulad for an honest and reflective conversation about how addiction develops over time, often beginning in adolescence with the need to belong, fit in, and feel comfortable in social environments. Drawing on lived experience, the discussion explores how substance use can evolve and shift, from alcohol to drugs to prescription medication, when underlying struggles are never fully addressed.

The episode also looks at neurodivergence, trauma, and emotional regulation, and why it can be difficult to separate the two without proper understanding and support. Johnny reflects on the changing landscape of youth mental health, the impact of technology and social media, and how constant access, comparison, and isolation shape anxiety, behavior, and identity in young people today.

Beyond individual experience, the conversation widens to include parenting, freedom, and the loss of community spaces, as well as broader challenges within mental health systems. It offers a grounded perspective on recovery as a process shaped not by force or quick fixes, but by accountability, care, and knowing when to apply support with firmness and compassion.

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on addiction recovery, mental health, neurodiversity, and why meaningful change often begins with a single, difficult decision.

About Johnny:
Johnny Graaff is the Founder of Lions Campus and has spent many years working in addiction recovery and youth mental health services. His work focuses on understanding complex patterns of substance use, emotional regulation, and behavioral change, as well as the environments that shape them. Through both professional practice and lived experience, Johnny brings a deeply human perspective to conversations around recovery, responsibility, and long-term support. He is also an experienced investor in the behavioral health industry.

00:00:00 – Introduction to Johnny Graaf
00:02:15 – Motivation and Entry into Mental Health Field
00:04:18 – Early Neurodiversity and School Challenges
00:08:27 – Family Dynamics and Enabling
00:09:38 – Addiction Onset and Substance Use
00:12:58 – Treatment Attempts and Final Recovery
00:17:01 – Mental Health Diagnoses and Psychiatric Care
00:18:30 – Critique of Addiction Treatment Models
00:19:47 – Post-Recovery Career and Founding Lyons Campus
00:21:19 – Motivation for Working with Young People
00:22:58 – Genetics, Family History, and Addiction
00:24:52 – Empathy for Young Clients and Brain Development
00:26:21 – Lack of Youth Services and Systemic Issues
00:29:10 – NHS, Private Sector, and Healthcare Economics
00:31:29 – Trends in Teen Issues: Technology and Substance Use
00:36:14 – Social Media, Hyper-Connectivity, and Parenting
00:40:20 – Loss of Freedom and Community for Youth
00:42:35 – Lyons Campus: Reintegration and Program Structure
00:43:47 – Program Details and Team Ethos
00:49:51 – Client Selection and Family Involvement
00:50:58 – Advice for Families and Family Therapy
00:52:14 – Innovation and Gaps in Mental Health Services
00:54:59 – Industry Trends and Collaboration
00:58:53 – Personal Balance and Self-Care
01:00:53 – Final Wisdom

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/ 
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/ 
 
Follow Johnny Graaff:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-graaff-uk/ 
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/... 
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/  
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/ 
 
#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #wellness #wellnessjourney #health #healing #

Johan Sorensen, Founder of Portobello Behavioural Health, joined Abdullah Boulad for a thoughtful conversation on how early disruption and emotional overwhelm can shape behaviour long before they are fully understood. Drawing on personal experience, the discussion reflects on how unhealthy patterns can become normalized, how boundaries are crossed gradually rather than suddenly, and how awareness often emerges quietly as a sense that something no longer feels right.

The episode also expands the conversation beyond narrow ideas of recovery. It examines how outcomes are measured, why abstinence alone is not enough, and how connection, kindness, and accessible support play a central role in lasting change. 

Tune in for a conversation that offers a grounded, human understanding of recovery as a process shaped by environment, relationships, and care.

Johan Sorensen has spent more than 25 years working in mental health care. Over that time, he has set up and led treatment facilities and programmes across the UK, the Middle East, and the United States. Trained initially as a therapist, Johan has worked across every stage of service delivery, from direct clinical work to programme development and leadership. He has also served on charitable boards and consulted with the media on issues related to mental health and addiction. He later founded Portobello Behavioural Health to focus on personalised, practical solutions that support individuals, families, and organisations throughout the full continuum of care.

00:00:00 – Early Life and Family Pressure
00:01:03 – Meet Johan Sorenson
00:03:03 – First Exposure to Addiction and Family History
00:07:08 – Father’s Addiction and Family Impact
00:10:16 – Parents’ Divorce and Substance Escalation
00:12:49 – The Moment That Broke the Spell
00:14:48 – AA, Kindness, and Early Recovery
00:17:14 – Residential Treatment and Group Work
00:20:51 – Genetics and Talking to His Kids
00:23:54 – One-Size Doesn’t Fit All in Recovery
00:26:30 – 12-Step Reflections and Compassionate Care
00:29:13 – Why Relapse Rates Are Misleading
00:32:08 – What Works and What Doesn’t in Treatment
00:35:07 – Regulation, Policy, and Political Gaps
00:39:34 – Behavioral Health Coaching as a Bridge
00:41:09 – Learning from Global Models of Care
00:48:16 – The Referral Fee Controversy
00:57:29 – Founding Portobello and Individualized Coaching
01:08:10 – Cultural Sensitivity and Client Dependency
01:25:09 – Connection Heals

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
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#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #wellness #wellnessjourney #health #healing #wellbeing #traumainformed #love #mentalhealth #recovery #support #safety #motivation #healthylifestyle #addictionrecovery

Natasha Silverbell, Founder and CEO of Silverbell Global, joined Abdullah Boulad for an open and deeply human conversation about addiction, recovery, and the long journey back to self. She shares her path from public success to private struggle, speaking about substance use, emotional numbness, shame, relapse, and the moments that led her toward sobriety, healing, and a redefined sense of spirituality.

Together, they explore what ethical, sustainable recovery truly looks like, from building multidisciplinary teams and addressing gaps in aftercare to balancing leadership, motherhood, boundaries, and self-care. 

Tune in for a conversation that is honest, thoughtful, and grounded, one that speaks to the reality of recovery as a lived, evolving process rather than a fixed destination.

About Natasha Silverbell:
Natasha is the Founder of Silverbell Global and a recovery coach with lived experience at the heart of her work. Drawing from her personal journey and years of professional practice, she supports individuals and organizations in building ethical, compassionate, and sustainable approaches to recovery and leadership.

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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Follow Natasha Silverbell:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
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Dr. Louise Stanger, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 35 years of experience, author, and global parenting expert, joins Abdullah Boulad for a deeply human conversation on grief, resilience, family patterns, and the moments that quietly shape our lives.

She reflects on losing a child to SIDS, the sudden death of her spouse, and the painful silence surrounding her father’s passing. Louise speaks about unanswered questions, generational wounds, and how the body often carries what the mind is not yet ready to hold.

This episode offers perspective for anyone navigating loss, supporting someone through grief, or trying to understand how our histories influence the way we love, parent, and build relationships.

About Dr Louise
Dr Louise Stanger is a respected clinician, interventionist, educator, and author who has supported families through addiction, trauma, and major life transitions. Her approach blends research, empathy, and practical guidance to help people strengthen relationships, rebuild trust, and create meaningful change with compassion.

00:00:00 – Introducing Dr Louise Stanger
00:01:47 – A Life’s Mission Born From Grief
00:02:11 – Generational Trauma and Family History
00:02:33 – Losing a Child to SIDS
00:03:44 – Sudden Loss of a Spouse
00:06:13 – Her Father’s Suicide and Childhood Silence
00:07:33 – Education, Mentors, and Becoming a Social Worker
00:09:43 – Learning the Truth About Her Father
00:12:01 – First Teaching Job and Early Encouragement
00:12:33 – Grief, Secrecy, and Maternal Support
00:14:40 – Teenage Turmoil and Emotional Survival
00:16:41 – The Power of Safe Havens and Mentors
00:17:40 – What Makes a Safe Space Safe?
00:21:33 – How Grief Shaped Her Parenting and Marriage
00:25:29 – Coping Through Friendship and Creativity
00:30:31 – Learning to Be Present Again
00:31:32 – How She Defines Grief Today
00:34:09 – From Pain to Resilience and Choice
00:41:40 – Debunking Myths About Grief
00:44:02 – Interventions, Family Portraits, and New Beginnings
00:47:04 – Portraiture, Mapping, and Systemic Insight
00:51:44 – Family Interventions and Long-Term Change
00:55:25 – What “Invitation to Change” Really Means
01:02:35 – Reflections at 79: Staying Present
01:14:40 – Final Wisdom: Keep Falling Up

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
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Paul Denniston, founder of Grief Yoga, joins Abdullah Boulad for a conversation that moves through grief, movement, identity, and the ways the body holds what the mind cannot always process.

Paul reflects on how his path began in places of anxiety, emotional suppression, and coping mechanisms that numbed rather than healed. He speaks openly about his childhood, his relationship with his sister, and the anticipatory grief that shaped so much of his inner world. From hitting rock bottom to entering recovery, he shares the moments and the people, who helped him find steadiness again.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about yoga, connection, healing, and the body’s role in emotional health.

About Paul:
Paul Denniston is the founder of Grief Yoga, a therapeutic movement method that helps people express and process emotional pain through the body. With experience in yoga, breathwork, dance, and movement therapy, he has trained thousands of mental health professionals, hospice workers, and grief counselors worldwide.

00:00:00 – Discovering Yoga Through Grief and Anxiety
00:01:03 – Introduction to Paul Denniston 
00:02:06 – Childhood, Religion, and Emotional Suppression
00:03:32 – Coping Mechanisms: Food, Substances, and Anxiety
00:04:44 – Yoga as a Gateway for Emotional Release
00:07:05 – Addiction and Rock Bottom
00:10:46 – Relationship with Sister and Anticipatory Grief
00:15:27 – The Wake-Up Call and Beginning Recovery
00:17:03 – Support Systems and Somatic Practice
00:21:01 – First Yoga Class and Impact of Kindness
00:25:04 – From Fitness to Deep Connection in Yoga
00:28:34 – Gender, Misconceptions, and Spiritual Identity
00:31:52 – Integrating Mind, Body, and Spirit
00:36:19 – Western vs. Eastern Yoga Approaches
00:41:37 – Redefining Grief as Unwanted Change
00:45:15 – The Grief Yoga Cycle of Transformation
00:48:41 – Where Trauma Lives in the Body
00:53:42 – Grief Brain and Emotional Fog
01:02:48 – Movement, Breath, and Voice Techniques
01:14:22 – Guided Laughter Yoga Practice
01:20:09 – Balance, Joy, and Closing Reflections

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
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#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #yoga #mentalhealthpodcast #music #soundhealing #emotionalintelligence #wellbeing  #therapy #resiliencebuilding #innergrowth #mentalwellness #podcastepisode #youtubepodcast #mentalhealth #healing #wellness #wellbeing #support

Bea Palya, singer, songwriter, and vocal artist, joins Abdullah Boulad on Living a Life in Balance for a heartfelt conversation about healing, creativity, and the power of the human voice.
 
Speaking with honesty and clarity, Bea reflects on the profound shifts that followed her divorce and the pain that took her to a very low point. She shares how music became the light she held onto, and how writing songs and using her voice helped her move through grief, rebuild her inner world, and reconnect with herself. Her story is a reminder that the darkest moments can become the ground where something new and meaningful begins to grow.
 
🔗 Tune in for a gentle and deeply authentic exploration of the voice as a healing tool, the resilience that emerges in difficult times, and the unexpected ways creativity can guide us back to balance.
 
About Bea:
Bea Palya is a Hungarian singer and vocal artist known for her emotionally rich sound and her ability to weave personal storytelling with profound musical expression. Through decades of performance, teaching, and artistic exploration, she has developed a unique approach to voice work that blends music, embodiment, and emotional honesty. Her work continues to inspire people to use their own voice as a pathway to healing, freedom, and inner connection.
 
00:00:00 – Welcome and Introduction to Bea Palya
00:01:46 – Musical Childhood and Folk Rituals
00:02:30 – First Breakup and Therapeutic Singing
00:05:11 – Songwriting and Emotional Expression
00:06:22 – Creating the “Sing Yourself to Freedom” Method
00:07:34 – From Performer to Teacher
00:08:43 – Singing in Community and Connection
00:09:17 – Emotional Resonance of Folk Songs
00:10:53 – Music’s Physical Impact
00:11:51 – Divorce, Rebirth, and Writing Anthems
00:15:24 – Covid, Growth, and Online Teaching
00:17:34 – Fear of Success and Expanding Reach
00:19:38 – Roots, Loneliness, and Ambition
00:23:50 – The 4 Pillars of Her Voice Method
00:29:55 – Breaking Perfectionism Through Singing
00:36:21 – Voice, Sexuality, and Energy Work
00:55:56 – Using Voice in Trauma Recovery
01:27:47 – Live Song Performance and Final Reflection
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
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#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #music #soundhealing #emotionalintelligence #wellbeing #therapy #resiliencebuilding #innergrowth #mentalwellness #podcastepisode #youtubepodcast #mentalhealth #healing #wellness #wellbeing #support

Cheryl Donaldson, MA, LMFT, LPC, Founder of Helping Families Flourish, LLC, joins Abdullah Boulad on Living a Life in Balance for an honest and practical conversation about emotional growth, family dynamics, and the inner world of children and adolescents.

Drawing from her own early struggles, academic challenges, and family experiences, Cheryl reflects on the moments that shaped her understanding of resilience and motivation. She shares how the coping mechanisms she developed as a young person now guide the way she supports parents, teens, and families in her clinical work.

🔗 Tune in for a wise, supportive, and deeply human exploration of what it means to grow, parent, and find balance in an ever-changing world.

About Cheryl:
Cheryl is a seasoned mental health clinician with over 20 years of experience supporting families, parents, and teenagers through modern challenges. 
She holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College and began her career serving at the American International School in Vienna. Today, her focus is on empowering families and adolescents with guidance that fosters confidence, resilience, and lasting well-being.

00:00:00 – Early Struggles and Motivation
00:03:27 – Academic Challenges and Family Dynamics
00:06:00 – Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Growth
00:10:37 – Parenting, Learning Styles, and Strengths
00:14:48 – Emotional Intelligence and Adolescent Support
00:18:45 – Cheryl’s Clinical Practice and Common Issues
00:21:15 – Helping Children Manage Anxiety and Friendship
00:24:57 – Social Struggles, Bullying, and Resilience
00:28:28 – Family Moves and Emotional Adaptation
00:33:40 – Career, Identity, and Purpose Abroad
00:42:08 – Building Connection and Navigating EXPAT Life
00:47:17 – Family Bonds, Friendship, and Finding Home
00:51:44 – Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS)
00:53:39 – Soul Work, Spirituality, and Self-Compassion
00:58:41 – Integrating Soul into Clinical Practice
01:04:44 – Leadership, IFS Principles, and Organizational Culture
01:10:54 – Communication, Curiosity, and Workplace Wellness
01:20:01 – Balance Practices and Final Wisdom

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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Follow Cheryl Donaldson:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...

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#LivingALifeInBalance #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #familydynamics #emotionalintelligence #parentingteens #adolescentwellbeing #therapyforfamilies #resiliencebuilding #innergrowth #mentalwellness #podcastepisode #youtubepodcast #HelpingFamiliesFlourish #mentalhealth #healing #wellness #wellbeing #support

Sat Dharam Kaur, ND, joins Abdullah Boulad on Living a Life in Balance for a deeply human conversation about healing, purpose, and spiritual growth.

From her early family challenges to her transformative meeting with Dr. Gabor Maté, Sat Dharam shares how her personal journey gave rise to Beyond Addiction and Compassionate Inquiry, both program rooted in compassion, awareness, and community. She reflects on the ways trauma shapes our lives, and how practices like Kundalini Yoga and naturopathy can help restore balance to the nervous system and reconnect us with our true selves.

🔗 Tune in for a heartfelt exchange on resilience, purpose, and the path toward inner balance.

About Sat: Sat Dharam Kaur is a renowned Naturopathic Doctor, Kundalini Yoga teacher, and author who has dedicated her life to helping others heal and transform. A long-time student of Yogi Bhajan since 1976, she has trained countless teachers and practitioners through her programs. She is also the visionary creator of Beyond Addiction and The Healthy Breast Program, two holistic approaches that integrate yoga, meditation, and lifestyle medicine to support emotional resilience and vibrant wellbeing.

00:00:00 – Motivation and Early Influences
00:01:00 – Meeting Gabor Maté and Launching Beyond Addiction
00:02:10 – Personal Background and Early Family Challenges
00:03:40 – Mother’s Trauma, Addiction, and Family Dynamics
00:05:00 – Becoming a Helper and Finding Purpose
00:06:12 – Creativity, Learning, and Academic Struggles
00:08:22 – Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Support
00:11:17 – Reading, Philosophy, and Intellectual Curiosity
00:12:29 – Discovering Kundalini Yoga and Naturopathy
00:14:25 – First Spiritual Experience and Awakening
00:16:46 – Yoga as a Tool for Emotional Healing
00:17:53 – The History and Philosophy of Kundalini Yoga
00:22:20 – Demonstration and Benefits of Yogic Movement
00:27:39 – Regulating the Nervous System through Yoga
00:30:32 – Trauma, Adaptability, and the Body
00:31:02 – Sikhism, the Turban, and Spiritual Identity
00:33:07 – Sikh Philosophy and Living in Harmony
00:43:53 – Nature, Permaculture, and Embodied Living
00:48:31 – Creating Compassionate Inquiry with Gabor Maté
00:53:26 – Therapist Presence and the Importance of Self-Work in Healing
01:04:53 – Somatic Practices and Building Supportive Communities
01:15:18 – Purpose, Passion, and the Evolution of Consciousness

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...

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#gabormaté #gabormate #drgabormate #traumainformed  #trauma  #traumahealing #traumarecovery #purpose #purposedriven  #purposedrivenlife #purposefulliving #purposeoflife  #purpose #spirituality  #spiritual #spiritualjourney #spiritualgrowth #ptsd  #ptsdtreatment #ptsdhealing  #ptsdrecovery #ptsdawareness

Dr. Brian Pennie joins Abdullah Boulad on Living a Life in Balance to share an inspiring story of recovery, awareness, and transformation.

After more than fifteen years of heroin addiction, Brian reached a point of complete collapse, a moment that marked the beginning of his awakening. In this conversation, he opens up about his childhood trauma, the cycle of addiction, and the neuroscience of change.

Together, they explore the connection between the brain, body, and behavior, touching on the biology of trauma, the power of acceptance, and the science of happiness, resilience, and human connection.

🔗 Tune in for a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, transformation is possible.

About Dr Pennie: Brian is a neuroscientist and resilience specialist, and also works as an advisor and business coach to some of Ireland’s leading CEOs. Through a combination of his own inspiring story alongside the application of proven tools and techniques, he is determined to identify and unleash the hidden potential in others.

00:00:00 – Introduction & Meet Dr Brian Pennie
00:02:25 – Motivation and Lightbulb Moment
00:03:31 – Childhood Trauma and Family Environment
00:06:55 – Progression into Addiction
00:09:41 – Heroin Use and Functionality
00:12:04 – Collapse and Tipping Point
00:13:03 – Detox and Surrender
00:16:10 – Neuroscience of Seizures
00:19:35 – Rock Bottom and Spiritual Shift
00:22:55 – Minor Relapse and Redefining Recovery
00:26:44 – Language, Self-Talk, and Recovery
00:29:12 – Addiction, Motivation, and Visibility
00:31:55 – Substance Use and Brain Development
00:34:37 – Hope and Brain Rewiring
00:36:08 – Support Systems and Ireland’s Addiction Services
00:38:19 – Homelessness and Addiction Cycle
00:39:13 – Societal Change and Hope
00:40:54 – Awareness as Catalyst for Change
00:43:26 – Values-Based Living
00:45:29 – Neuroscience of Happiness
00:48:09 – Balance, Pleasure, and Moderation
00:50:06 – Social Homeostasis and Connection
00:52:28 – Listening to the Body and Inner Voice
00:55:58 – Acceptance as a “Biohack”
00:57:50 – Observer Mindset and Detachment
01:00:52 – Therapies & Biology of Trauma
01:11:34 – Safety, Connection, and Isolation
01:14:44 – Brain Health Fundamentals
01:24:11 – Exercise, Sport, and Longevity
01:37:01 – Language, Self-Talk, and Affirmations
01:50:27 – Media, Social Media, and Children’s Brains
02:00:38 – Daily Balance Practices
02:04:01 – Final Advice: Action Over Knowledge

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...

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#addictiontreatment #trauma #addictionrecovery #drgabormate #recovery #traumainformed #podcast #balance #traumahealing #substanceabuseawareness #support #health #healing #therapist #healthy #healthylifestyle #neuroscience #relapseprevention #relationship 

Licia Sky, Co-Founder and Global Ambassador of the Trauma Research Foundation, which she leads alongside her husband, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk,  joins Abdullah Boulad on Living a Life in Balance to explore how healing begins when we reconnect with the body and learn to hold both joy and grief with compassion.

Licia shares moments from her own journey, including a near-death experience that transformed her understanding of life, love, and presence. She reflects on the power of embodied awareness, how the body remembers what the mind forgets, and why slowing down is essential to finding balance.

Together, they discuss the future of psychedelic therapy, the importance of integration and guidance, and how music, movement, and community can help us return to ourselves.

🔗 Tune in for a deeply human conversation about embodiment, trauma, and the art of coming back to balance.

About Licia:
A somatic educator, artist, and bodyworker, she guides individuals and trains professionals in using movement, voice, mindfulness, and creative expression as tools for healing and connection. With over 40 years of experience as an artist, musician, and therapist, her approach weaves together polyvagal theory, parts work, and the latest research on trauma and the body.

00:00:00 – Early Trauma and Spiritual Experience
00:02:06 – Journey into Trauma Work and Meeting Bessel van der Kolk
00:04:24 – Intuition and Listening in Healing
00:05:58 – Childhood Mysticism
00:07:34 – Multicultural Upbringing and Identity
00:12:03 – Generational Trauma and Family History
00:14:16 – Spiritual Experience at Age 12
00:22:34 – Integration and Search for Understanding
00:26:16 – Improvisation, Self-Learning, and Creativity
00:27:34 – Bodywork, Flashbacks, and Validation
00:30:40 – Working with Challenging Clients
00:33:48 – Lessons in Humility and Human Connection
00:35:04 – Intuitive Bodywork and Therapeutic Boundaries
00:36:47 – Meeting Bessel van der Kolk and Relationship
00:43:28 – Role at the Trauma Research Foundation
00:46:50 – Psychedelics and Ketamine Therapy
00:53:37 – Importance of Integration and Individualised Care
00:58:16 – Cultural Differences in Mental Health
01:05:05 – Singing, Vulnerability, and Healing
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
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Follow Licia Sky:
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
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#Liciasky #besselvanderkolk #traumarecovery #trauma #traumahealing #drgabormate #healing #motivation #health #wellness #wellbeing #podcast #support #holisticaddictionrecovery #love #connection #balance #grief #griefsupport 

In this episode of Living a Life in Balance, Abdullah Boulad sits with Emi Lizuka, Mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing Therapist at The Balance, to explore how awareness, compassion, and safety shape the way we heal.

Emi shares her personal journey of overcoming narcissistic abuse and single motherhood, and how those experiences led her to teach mindfulness and trauma-informed practices. She explains how self-compassion, co-regulation, and body awareness can transform the nervous system and rebuild a sense of connection to ourselves and to those around us.

Together, they discuss what safety truly means, how empathy works in the brain, and why being authentic with ourselves is the foundation of emotional healing.

🔗 Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on trauma, mindfulness, and the gentle power of presence.

About Emi:
Emi is an experienced mindfulness and somatic therapist. Her work integrates neuroscience, compassionate inquiry, and trauma-informed care to help individuals reconnect with their bodies, cultivate self-compassion, and restore balance through awareness and understanding.

00:00:00 Introduction & Emi’s Healing Philosophy
00:02:01 Self-Compassion & Mindfulness Practice
00:08:15 Surviving Narcissistic Abuse & Single Motherhood
00:14:24 Post-Separation Healing 
00:15:55 Becoming a Mindfulness Teacher
00:17:53 Neuroscience of Empathy
00:21:54 Defining Mindfulness
00:24:24 Trauma Studies & Co-Regulation
00:28:31 Essence of Compassionate Inquiry
00:31:53 Triggers, Social Media, and Public Life
00:38:56 Somatic Experiencing & Safety
00:42:13 Defining Safety & Connection
00:45:27 Trauma, Ownership, and Empowerment
00:48:07 Cultural Differences in Connection
00:51:09 Self-Authenticity
01:00:45 Practicing Self-Compassion
01:05:15 Why We’re Hard on Ourselves
01:06:32 Parenting, Vulnerability, and Holding Space
01:14:19 Mindful Communication & Presence
01:22:04 Client Transformations
01:24:25 Final Wisdom: Savour the Moment

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/ 
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/ 
 
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You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/... 
 
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#podcast #healing #motivation #love #presence #relationship #recovery #trauma #safety #connection #relationships #mindset #mindfulness #mindsetmatters #mindsetshift #mindfulliving #mindbodyconnection #alignment #wisdom #communication #parenting

In this episode of Living a Life in Balance, Abdullah Boulad sits with Dr. Simon Feldhaus, Medical Doctor at The Balance, to explore the link between the gut, brain, and overall health.
 
Dr. Feldhaus shares how functional and micronutrient medicine can prevent disease, slow aging, and support the body’s natural healing ability. He explains how stress, sleep, diet, and mindset influence our biology and why empathy and education are key to true wellbeing.
 
🔗 Tune in for a grounded conversation on prevention, vitality, and the future of health.
 
About Dr. Feldhaus: Simon is a highly qualified specialist in general medicine with certifications in Phytotherapy and Interventional Pain Therapy. He has been trained in both modern and complementary medicine, allowing him to utilize a breadth of experience in both fields. His therapeutic approach focuses on Regulatory Medicine, Orthomolecular Medicine, Mitochondrial Medicine, Phytotherapy, Complementary Oncology, Integrative Sports Care, and Health Prevention.
 
Introduction and the Gut-Brain Connection (00:00:00)
What Motivated Simon to Become a Doctor (00:02:25)
Medical Training and Functional Approach (00:04:12)
Empowering People Through Education (00:06:09)
What Is Functional Medicine? (00:08:37)
The Role of Empathy in Healthcare (00:12:08)
The Body’s Self-Healing Potential (00:15:05)
The Mind, Brain, and Gut Axis (00:16:18)
The Power of Gratitude and Positive Thinking (00:24:03)
Mindfulness and Being Present (00:26:14)
Toxicity, Micronutrients, and Environment (00:28:08)
The Microbiome and Mental Health (00:33:04)
Gut Diversity, Diet, and Individualization (00:41:35)
Autoimmunity, Allergies, and the Gut (00:49:05)
Genetics vs. Epigenetics (00:52:32)
Chronic Stress and Biological Aging (00:59:00)
Fight-or-Flight and Modern Disorders (01:02:21)
Information Overload and Stress in Children (01:14:33)
Sleep, Brain Detox, and Recovery (01:25:08)
Therapeutic Sugars and Brain Energy (01:32:17)
Longevity and the Future of Prevention (01:59:51)
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
Follow Dr Simon Feldhaus:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-feldhaus-49435033/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #longevity #love #braingutconnection #empathy #mindset #stressrelief #stress #anxiety #mindbodyconnection #chronicillness #mentalhealth #wellness #wellbeing #recovery #health #healthy #healthylifestyle #healthtips #healthandwellness #doctor 

In this insightful episode, Saskia van Houten, Psychotherapist at The Balance, explores what it truly means to heal from the inside out. She shares how therapy helps shift the body from survival to safety, why belonging and connection are vital to our wellbeing, and how unspoken pain often hides behind competence and control. With honesty and grace, Saskia reflects on her own journey through loss and transformation, reminding us that healing is not a straight path but a process of rediscovering safety, love, and meaning.
 
As a psychotherapist, she bridges neuroscience, emotion, and lived experience—showing that when the mind feels safe, the heart begins to open.
 
🔗 Tune in for an honest conversation about trauma, belonging, and the courage to heal.
 
About Saskia: Clinical and organizational psychologist with a private practice where she supports clients both online and in person. Holding two master’s degrees, she originally specialized in eating disorders and self-image, later expanding her expertise through postgraduate training in trauma treatment, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Schema Therapy.
Beyond her clinical work, Saskia is a published author and a frequent contributor to Dutch television and radio, where she shares her insights on mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Personal Crisis and Growth (00:00:00)
Saskia’s Motivation and Career Path (00:02:13)
Therapeutic Training and Modalities (00:05:27)
Child and Adolescent Specialization (00:08:52)
Therapeutic Techniques and Customization (00:09:48)
Multiple Facets of Personality (00:12:26)
Self-Esteem and Relationship Dynamics (00:16:16)
Attachment, Guilt, and Repetition of Patterns (00:20:07)
Creating Safe Therapeutic Environments (00:22:24)
Repairing Childhood Wounds in Therapy (00:27:13)
Processing Childhood Experiences (00:29:48)
Inner Child Work and Imagery Rescripting (00:32:20)
Social Belonging and Fear of Rejection (00:37:04)
Self-Esteem, Public Perception, and Criticism (00:41:37)
Therapist’s Role: Past the Protector Part (00:46:15)
Comparison, Success, and Personal Values (00:48:34)
Self-Love, Boundaries, and Intentions (00:53:02)
Letting Go and Seasons of Life (01:03:20)
Therapist’s Personal Story: Twin Identity (01:05:17)
High-Functioning Depression and Autism (01:08:30)
Self-Image, Mirror Exercise, and Self-Love (01:13:33)
Happiness, Self-Love, and Life’s Ups and Downs (01:24:05)
Parenting, Reflection, and Imperfection (01:27:21)
Personal Setbacks and Recovery (01:30:45)
Post-Traumatic Growth and Choice (01:40:35)

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
Follow Saskia Van Houten:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/saskiageraertsvanhouten/
https://www.instagram.com/psycholoog_saskia/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...

Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #traumainformed #motivation #trauma #love #safety #neuroscience #emotional #emotions #experience #health #healthy #healthylifestyle #recovery #relationship #support #therapist #therapy #supportme #humanity #human #mindset #body #mentalhealth 

In this compassionate and thought-provoking episode, Gita Chaudhuri, Director of Psychotherapy at The Balance, guides us through the complex terrain of grief. From personal loss to collective mourning, Gita offers a grounded and deeply human understanding of what it means to grieve.

She explores the difference between normal and complicated grief, how pain is not a problem to be fixed but a reflection of love, and why rituals, both personal and cultural, matter in our healing process. With warmth and clinical clarity, Gita shares how therapy can help us navigate the chaos of loss, make space for transformation, and carry forward what we’ve lost without letting it define us.

As a psychotherapist, Gita combines psychological depth with spiritual insight, holding space for grief in all its forms, from the death of a loved one to sudden trauma to the quieter, everyday losses that shape our lives.

🔗 Tune in for an honest conversation about grief, love, and the long, winding road toward healing.

About Gita:
Gita Chaudhuri is the Director of Psychotherapy at The Balance, where she leads a multidisciplinary team supporting clients through trauma, grief, and emotional recovery. With over 20 years of experience, Gita brings a rare ability to hold emotional depth, cultural nuance, and therapeutic precision—all in service of helping people find meaning in their pain and the courage to move forward.

What Is Grief? (00:00:00)
The Stages of Grief: Messy, Nonlinear & Unique (00:02:58)
When Grief Becomes Complicated (00:06:00)
Losing a Parent vs. Losing a Child (00:08:27)
How Therapy Helps Us Grieve (00:11:15)
Denial, Oscillation & Emotional Protection (00:13:06)
Grief Across Cultures: Rituals & Expression (00:14:24)
Personal Story: Abdullah on Losing His Father (00:17:23)
Children & Grief (00:20:30)
How Grief Transforms Us (00:23:01)
Grief in the Body: Physical & Cognitive Effects (00:26:21)
Crying, Cultural Norms & Emotional Release (00:30:46)
Traumatic Loss, Anniversaries & Long-Term Support (00:39:12)
Guilt, Forgiveness & the Grief Journey (00:42:41)
How Attachment Shapes Our Grief (00:47:16)
Stuck Grief, Obsession & When to Seek Help (00:50:07)
Sudden Death vs. Anticipated Death (00:54:19)
Suicide, Terminal Illness & Self-Determined Death (01:02:09)
Rituals, Religion & Making Meaning After Loss (01:11:06)
When to Seek Therapy: Normal vs. Complicated Grief (01:23:03)
Religion, Spirituality & Signs from the Beyond (01:27:04)
Energy, Afterlife & Legacy: What Remains After Loss (01:32:02)
Final Words: Grief as Transformation & Trusting the Process (01:38:13)

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
Follow Gita Chaudhuri:
https://www.psychopraxis-palma.com/home.html
https://es.linkedin.com/in/gita-chaudhuri-7235611b/en

You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #traumainformed #grief #drgabormate #love #death #psychology #psychologyfacts #recovery #loss #parenting #health #trauma #legacy #challenge #transformation #transition #mourning #human #support #griefsupport #wellness 

In this deeply honest episode, Jacobo Rengifo Cavestany, Relapse Prevention Therapist at The Balance, shares his personal journey through addiction, grief, and recovery. He speaks about the shame of hiding his struggles, the impact of losing his sister, and the spiral into depression that followed.
 
Jacobo opens up about what it really means to hit rock bottom—manipulation, relapse, and suicidal thoughts—while also reflecting on the moments that helped him begin to heal: therapy, trust, and learning to face emotions rather than escape them.
 
Today, as a practitioner, Jacobo transforms his lived experience into guidance for others. He explains why empathy, honesty, and individualized recovery are at the heart of his work, and what long-term healing really looks like: imperfect, non-linear, but deeply human.
 
🔗 Tune in for an unfiltered conversation about addiction, loss, and recovery—and the strength it takes to start again.
 
About Jacobo: Having walked the path of addiction and recovery himself, Jacobo brings a unique blend of lived experience and therapeutic expertise to his work. He understands the complexity of relapse, the weight of shame, and the courage it takes to heal. Through empathy and authenticity, he helps others find their own way forward.
 
00:00:00 – Early Addiction & Shame
00:00:53 – Introduction & Episode Overview
00:02:06 – Hiding Addiction & Family Discovery
00:04:52 – Gambling, Confession & Sister’s Suicide
00:06:07 – Grief, Depression & Emotional Collapse
00:08:35 – Tools for Coping with Depression
00:09:13 – First Addictions, Emotional Avoidance & Early Exposure
00:10:50 – Childhood, Genetics & Environment
00:12:05 – Behavioral vs. Substance Addiction
00:14:04 – Losing Control & Emotional Numbing
00:19:15 – Stealing, Manipulation & Rock Bottom
00:22:58 – Substance Use & Suicidal Thoughts
00:24:00 – Bullying, Isolation & Social Challenges
00:25:38 – Rehab, Resistance & Starting Recovery
00:28:43 – Time, Motivation & Individualized Recovery
00:32:43 – Addiction as the Only Light Left
00:34:04 – Relapse, Guilt & Learning Through Failure
00:38:13 – Trust, Therapy & Emotional Healing
00:41:05 – Emotional Education, Honesty & Technology’s Impact
00:44:11 – Storytelling, Empathy & Sister’s Memory
00:51:58 – Processing Loss & Unanswered Questions
00:53:22 – From Patient to Practitioner: Why He Now Helps Others
00:57:13 – Therapy Models & Building Trust with Clients
01:08:17 – Preparing for Life After Rehab
01:13:42 – Substituting Addictions & What Recovery Really Means
01:25:32 – Long-Term Recovery & Final Advice
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #addictionrecovery #addictiontreatment #addiction #wellbeing #wellness #mentalhealth #relapseprevention #relapse #recovery #support #substanceabuseawareness #gambling #grief #depression #anxiety #guilty #isolation #empathy #shame #rehabilitation 

The Balance RehabClinic in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, has been named Winner in the Interior – Healthcare category at the ICONIC Award 2025. In this episode, anySCALE founders Karin Hepp and Andreas Thomczyk share the vision behind the clinic’s design—how architecture, flow, and holistic principles came together to create a healing environment. From privacy and sensory design to natural light and garden spaces, they reveal how thoughtful design can support mental health and redefine healthcare.
 
🔗 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on creating spaces that ground us, restore balance, and transform the way we live.
 
About anySCALE: An international architecture and design firm with a diverse portfolio of projects that showcase innovation, sustainability, and a strong design ethos. With passionate and resilient teams based in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Mallorca, and Singapore, anySCALE continues to push boundaries in creating spaces that inspire and endure.
 
00:00:00 – Introduction & Award Announcement
00:01:32 – Meet Karin Hepp and Andreas Thomczyk; Founders of anySCALE
00:04:54 – The Architects’ Journey: Vienna to Mallorca
00:10:59 – Choosing Mallorca & Shifting to Private Projects
00:15:12 – Meeting Abdullah & The Balance Vision
00:17:36 – Designing for Therapy, Staff & Multidimensional Use
00:18:16 – User-Centred Design: Listening First
00:21:13 – Layout, Flow & Custom Furniture
00:26:33 – Integrating Feng Shui & Holistic Design
00:28:47 – Material Choices, Color Debates & Local Influence
00:31:47 – Centred Energy: A Space That Grounds You
00:33:01 – Architecture as Mental Health Support
00:34:57 – Privacy, Sensory Design & Safe Therapeutic Spaces
00:39:48 – Outdoor Spaces, Natural Light & the Garden Feeling
00:41:45 – Beyond the Hospital: A New Model for Healthcare Spaces
00:44:29 – Creating Comfort & Breaking Hierarchies
00:47:56 – Modest Luxury: Simplicity, Materials & Sensory Depth
00:51:06 – Winning the ICONIC Award: What It Means
00:56:37 – Design Tips: How to Create Balance in Your Space, Your Home Environment
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow anySCALE Architecture Design:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/anyscale/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#podcast #architecture #healing #space #healingspace #safety #safespace #interiordesign #interiordesign #mallorca #spain #spacedesign #healingjourney #vision #flow #balance #recovery #passion #resilience #love #safetyfirst #design #wellness #wellbeing  

Fernanda Lima Sento Sé, Clinical Dietitian and Nutritionist at The Balance RehabClinic, shares her powerful journey of healing and how food, lifestyle, and mindful choices can transform our relationship with the body. From a health crisis that sparked her anti-inflammatory path to years of studying nutrition, she explores the deep connection between what we eat, how we live, and how we feel, highlighting the profound impact of inflammation and gut health on overall well-being through the lens of functional medicine.
 
In this episode, Fernanda opens up about her early medical struggles, the role of genetics and environment, and how nutrition became both a tool for recovery and a lifelong mission. With a grounded and compassionate approach, she reflects on the influence of processed foods, stress, hydration, and cultural habits, while offering insights into the microbiome, toxins, and the delicate gut-brain connection.
 
🔗 Tune in for a real conversation on the small, sustainable shifts that can create lasting wellness.
 
About Fernanda: Rooted in both science and lived experience, Fernanda integrates research on microbiome diversity, epigenetics, and lifestyle medicine into her work. Through education and personalized guidance, she helps others navigate complex health challenges while cultivating balance, vitality, and long-term resilience.
 
00:00:00 – Fernanda’s Health Crisis & the Start of Her Anti-Inflammatory Journey
00:01:23 – Episode Overview: Inflammation, Gut Health & Functional Nutrition
00:02:42 – A Healthy Childhood, Medical Struggles & Early Nutrition Curiosity
00:08:10 – Allergies, Autoimmunity & the Role of Environment and Diet
00:09:57 – Genetics, Epigenetics & Lifestyle Choices
00:12:41 – Choosing Nutrition: University Crisis & Transformational Diet Changes
00:15:52 – Developing Protocols & Learning from Scleroderma
00:18:45 – Functional Medicine & Precision Nutrition Influence
00:19:43 – Understanding Inflammation: Acute, Chronic & Silent
00:23:07 – Recognizing Inflammation: Physical Symptoms & Root Causes
00:26:40 – Water, Hydration & the Inflammation Connection
00:31:03 – Hydration Habits, Soft Drinks & Cultural Shifts
00:36:33 – Processed Foods, Stress, Sleep & Gut Health
00:38:58 – Toxins, Microbiome Diversity & Immune Resilience
00:41:54 – Microbiome Development: Birth, Breastfeeding & Early Life
00:44:15 – Chemical Exposure, Beauty Trends & Traditional Practices
00:48:33 – Macronutrients: Proteins, Carbs, and the Pitfalls of Diet Trends
00:51:03 – Keto, Elimination Diets & the Importance of Personalization
00:56:56 – Stress, Individualized Diets & When to Refer to Psychologists
01:03:29 – Local, Seasonal Eating & Practical Travel Tips
01:15:11 – Fruits, Juicing & the Truth About Sugar Detoxes
01:20:58 – IBS, Microbiome, and Digestive Resilience
01:33:16 – Fecal Transplants, Microbiome Therapy & Mental Health Links
01:40:49 – Gut-Brain Axis: Stress, Diaphragm & Physical Gut Tension
01:43:18 – Gut Health Assessment: Stool Testing & Scientific Limits
01:51:39 – Treating IBS, Histamine Intolerance & Leaky Gut Protocols
02:06:41 – Supplement Strategy: When, Why & What to Use
02:14:49 – Fernanda’s Daily Habits & Final Wellness Advice
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Fernanda Lima Sento Sé:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernanda-lima-sento-se/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:  
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/ 
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/... 
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:  

Estela Garcia, Yoga Teacher, Breathwork and Mindfulness Facilitator, shares how presence, movement, and healing practices can help us reconnect with ourselves and navigate life’s challenges with grace. Drawing from a deeply personal journey, Estela explores how yoga became her anchor during times of grief, identity shifts, and transformation.

In this episode, Estela opens up about her path from the world of acting to becoming a teacher of yoga and sound healing. She reflects on the power of community, the impact of emotional loss, and how presence can become a tool for both healing and empowerment. With insights on breathwork, nervous system regulation, and how to approach yoga without ego, Estela offers a grounded, compassionate perspective on inner growth.

🔗 Tune in for a grounded conversation on reclaiming purpose, practicing stillness, and using yoga and sound to raise your frequency.

About Estela: Estela Garcia is a yoga teacher, breathwork, mindfulness and sound healing practitioner. With a background in acting and a life shaped by travel, culture, and artistic expression, she brings a rich, embodied wisdom to her work. Through movement, sound, and presence, Estela helps others reconnect to their inner peace and navigate life with more clarity, calm, and emotional resilience.

00:00:00 — Introduction
00:02:02 — Estela’s Journey: From Acting to Yoga
00:04:16 — Yoga as a Functional Tool for Daily Life
00:06:16 — Losing Her Father & Choosing Passion Over Security
00:09:09 — Overcoming Fear & Reclaiming Purpose
00:11:27 — The Power of Community & Hope in NYC
00:15:05 — Abdullah’s Story: Loss, Authenticity & Emotional Legacy
00:16:11 — A Childhood of Art, Travel & Backstage Lessons
00:21:35 — Cultural Exposure, Belonging & Teenage Challenges
00:25:30 — Yoga as a Lifeline During Divorce & Personal Pain
00:28:02 — Becoming a Yoga Teacher & Defining Yoga as Presence
00:31:51 — Spiritual Roots of Yoga & Becoming the Observer
00:35:09 — Experiencing Moments of Presence Through Practice
00:39:28 — Breath, Nervous System & Scientific Side of Yoga
00:44:36 — How to Start Yoga Without Ego or Pressure
00:48:37 — Integrating Presence into Everyday Life
00:51:04 — Responding vs. Reacting: Emotional Flexibility
00:54:19 — Simplicity, Stillness & Reducing Mental Noise
00:55:25 — How Estela Structures a Class Based on Energy
00:59:10 — Introduction to Sound Healing & Crystal Bowls
01:05:52 — Live vs. Recorded Frequencies & The Power of Humming
01:09:23 — Guided Sound Healing: Entering Theta State
01:21:02 — Singing Bowls, Frequency & Optimal Session Length
01:23:49 — Raising Frequency Through Breath, Movement & Gratitude
01:28:27 — Yoga & Sound Healing for Anxiety, Depression & Safety
01:32:01 — Client Transformations & Ongoing Balance
01:38:23 — Final Advice: Follow Your Passion & Befriend Yourself

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Estela Garcia:
https://www.instagram.com/estelayoga?igsh=MXRrdWNxYTE1N2dsYQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
http://www.estelayoga.com

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #recovery #yoga #health #mindset #mindbodyconnection #meditation #health #healthylifestyle #power #love #soundhealing #breathing #breathwork #mentalhealth #wellness #wellbeing #care #selfcare #selflove #se

Steve, Health Coach and Kinesiologist at The Balance, offers a clear perspective on how mindset, training, and rest play essential roles in reaching your full potential. Drawing from years of experience, he breaks down common misconceptions about the body’s limits and explains why trusting yourself is key to progress.
 
In this episode, Steve discusses how strength training, recovery, and mental beliefs intertwine to shape not just physical results but overall well-being. He shares advice on structuring workouts, embracing rest, and tapping into the body’s natural ability to adapt and grow stronger.
 
🔗 Watch now for a practical conversation about training smarter, resting better, and unlocking your true potential.
 
About Steve: Steve is a certified Personal Trainer, Health Coach, and Kinesiologist with over 15 years of professional experience. As a passionate athlete, he helps individuals build healthier, fitter lifestyles through personalized coaching. His expertise spans functional fitness, athletic training, kinesiology, injury prevention, and nutrition. Steve’s commitment to quality and the results his clients achieve continue to drive his work forward.
 
00:00:00 — Introduction to Kinesiologist & Personal Trainer Steve Linzer
00:04:13 — Assessing Clients & Personalizing Their Training Plans
00:05:33 — What Is Kinesiology? Understanding the Triad of Health
00:08:15 — How Muscle Testing Reveals Stress, Beliefs & Posture Issues
00:11:15 — Energy Flow, Skepticism & How the Body Gives Feedback
00:13:42 — Why Practitioner Testing Is More Effective Than Self-Testing
00:15:05 — Trauma, Subconscious Blocks & Physical Symptoms
00:17:51 — Steve’s Injury Story: Healing Emotional Stress in the Body
00:20:02 — The ESR Technique: Emotional Stress Release in Action
00:23:36 — Neurovascular & Neurolymphatic Points for Energy Balance
00:25:13 — Supporting Self-Healing & Preventive Kinesiology
00:27:20 — Commitment in Personal Training Starts with Assessment
00:30:28 — Structuring a Training Plan for Long-Term Progress
00:34:53 — Why Strength Training Beats Cardio for Weight Loss
00:37:44 — Protecting Joints & Training for Your Personal Goals
00:41:06 — Progression, Motivation & Starting with Small Wins
00:48:28 — Full Body vs. Split Training: How to Choose
00:51:16 — Recovery Matters: The Dangers of Overtraining
00:53:13 — Breaking Limits: The True Value of a Personal Trainer
00:56:10 — The Best Time to Train Based on Hormones & Lifestyle
00:58:08 — Ideal Workout Flow: Warm-Up, Main, Cooldown
01:01:42 — Strength, Aging & Bone Density Protection
01:04:06 — Debunking Strength Training Myths
01:06:15 — Movement Should Be Fun: Padel, Sports & Play
01:16:33 — Steve’s Personal Balance Routine & Final Advice
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/ 
 
Follow Steve Linzer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-linzer-61a37b192/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #training #sports #trainingday #health #motivation #coaching #coach #physicalactivity #body #movement #mindset #mindbodyconnection #activity #health #wellbeing #mentalhealth #wellness #love #care #energy #stressrelief #posture 

Elke Bilger, therapist at The Balance RehabClinic, shares a practical and honest look at how the body holds stress, tension, and past experiences. With years of experience in physiotherapy, she talks about the importance of movement, alignment, and safety in the healing process.

In this episode, Elke explains how daily stress, poor posture, surgeries, and emotional experiences can all show up in the body. She walks us through her hands-on approach — combining muscle release, alignment work, and real lifestyle change — to help people reconnect with their bodies and feel more at ease.

Healing, as Elke reminds us, isn’t just about treating pain. It’s about listening to the body, supporting it in the right way, and creating long-term balance from the inside out.

🔗 Watch now for a grounded conversation on movement, healing, and what it means to truly feel well in your body.

About Elke: Elke’s path into physiotherapy was driven by a deep curiosity about the human body and a genuine passion for movement, health, and healing. Since qualifying in 2001, she has developed a specialized focus on massage therapy, recognizing its often underestimated power. Her clinical experience taught her that true physical wellbeing comes not just from treating symptoms, but from restoring muscle health, balance, and relaxation at the root. For Elke, massage isn’t just a technique—it’s a vital tool for long-term recovery, strength, and resilience.

00:00:00 — Introduction & Why Safety Matters in Healing
00:02:36 — Elke’s Journey into Physiotherapy
00:05:09 — Fascination with the Body & Developing Sensitivity
00:06:52 — Manual Techniques & Discovering the Dorn Method
00:10:14 — Assessing and Correcting Misalignments
00:11:26 — Rigidity, Aging & the Importance of Movement
00:12:14 — Deep Tissue, Lymphatic Drainage & Massage Types
00:13:22 — Preventing Tension with Regular Treatments
00:14:07 — Posture, Alignment & Compensation Patterns
00:20:05 — Chronic Misalignment & Habitual Stress
00:21:11 — Anatomy, Muscle Function & Interconnectedness
00:26:07 — Muscle Tension, Behavior & Environmental Stress
00:28:24 — Injury vs. Chronic Issues & Impact of Surgeries
00:30:46 — Pain Patterns, Realignment & Whole-Body Approach
00:36:05 — Emotional Trauma, Brain Alignment & Healing
00:41:28 — Processing Emotion After Injury or Surgery
00:46:06 — Elke’s Realignment & Muscle Release Method
00:50:15 — Home Care, Lifestyle Change & Long-Term Results
00:55:09 — Misalignment, Stress & Societal Influence
01:01:25 — Learning from Animals: Movement & Recovery
01:05:27 — Back Pain, Inflammation & Medication Overuse
01:13:07 — Spinal Health, Nerve Function & Self-Healing
01:17:09 — Preventative Care from Childhood to Adulthood
01:34:11 — Flexibility, Strength & Aging Gracefully

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Elke Bilger:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-bilger-7441a4172/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #safety #alignment #lifestyle #health #wellness #wellbeing #selfcare #selflove #selfgrowth #therapist #recovery #treatment #stressrelief #stress #pain #mood #holistichealth #care #safety #chronicillness #recoveryispossible 

Dr. Sarah Boss, Clinical Director at The Balance RehabClinic, offers a profound look into the hidden challenges that come with wealth and privilege. Behind the surface of success lies a complex struggle—constant pressure, easy access to substances, and the risk of losing balance in a world flooded with extremes. She explains how true healing goes beyond quick fixes and requires deep understanding of the nervous system and early life experiences.
 
Structure and healthy boundaries become essential tools, especially when freedom can easily lead to chaos. Dr. Sarah also highlights the importance of honest relationships—people who say no and hold others accountable—in a culture where yes-saying often dominates. Healing, she reminds us, is not about thinking our way out of pain, but about creating safety, connection, and resilience. This episode invites us to rethink what it means to live authentically and find lasting balance amid life’s pressures.
 
🔗 Watch now for a revealing conversation that challenges the myths of wealth, uncovers the unseen struggles behind success, and explores the path to genuine balance and recovery.
 
About Dr. Sarah Boss: With extensive training in psychiatry, psychotherapy, neuromodulation, and functional medicine, Dr. Boss combines cutting-edge science with a holistic approach to treat clients comprehensively.
 
00:00 — Introduction
02:06 — Dr Boss’s Experience: Psychiatry from Homeless Shelters to Royalty
03:53 — Do the Rich Struggle More?
05:07 — Money Doesn’t Guarantee Happiness
06:03 — Wealth as a Mental Health Risk Factor
08:40 — How Much Money is Too Much?
10:16 — Public Perception, Jealousy & Social Media
12:08 — No Structure, No Stability
15:41 — Success and Social Isolation
18:46 — Work-Life Imbalance and Burnout
28:39 — Planning Major Life Transitions
30:47 — Replacing Work with Extremes
32:10 — Do the Wealthy Have a Right to Care?
34:17 — Barriers to Getting Help When You’re Rich
40:39 — Loneliness, Identity & Fame
48:39 — How Children of the Wealthy Suffer
1:00:20 — Boundaries Raise Resilience
1:10:44 — Preventing Entitlement in Children
1:17:02 — Substance Abuse in the Ultra-Rich
1:20:14 — The Problem with Celebrity “Yes Sayers”
1:22:17 — Addiction & Reward System Breakdown
1:27:53 — What Real Recovery Looks Like
1:34:09 — Therapy Must Be Empathic & Real
1:39:07 — You Deserve Help

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Dr Sarah Boss:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-med-univ-sarah-boss-881761105/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #wealth #wealthy #fame #power #privilege #money #wellness #wellbeing #happy #peace #challenge #pressure #addictionrecovery #stressrelief #stress #anxiety #depression #recovery #support #guidance #therapist #success #freedom #struggle #psychology #holistichealth #science 

Dr. Indhira Ghyssaert, family doctor and nutritionist at The Balance, shares why modern medicine must slow down to truly heal. Drawing from years of experience and global practice, she makes a compelling case for longer consultations, explaining why a one-hour first assessment isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
 
Dr. Indhira reveals how a truly holistic approach goes far beyond prescriptions, diving into lifestyle, mindset, and even the subtle ways stress shows up in lab results. From empowering patients to take ownership of their health, to why some popular medications like GLP-1 don’t work for everyone, this conversation is a call for a more human, personalized model of care.
She also shares real-life success stories—like the patient whose PMDD symptoms were transformed, and the woman who recovered through targeted supplementation—highlighting the potential of natural, evidence-informed interventions. And if you’ve ever wondered about the best supplements for menopause or low testosterone, Dr. Indhira offers practical, honest guidance based on clinical experience.
 
🔗 Watch now for a compassionate discussion that will change how you think about the doctor-patient relationship—and what true healing really requires.

About Dr. Indhira Ghyssaert:
Dr. Indhira is a family doctor and nutritionist with a passion for natural, holistic care. After studying dietetics in Toulon and medicine in Brussels, she expanded her training to include homeopathy, hypnosis, and gentle therapies like ozone treatment. She believes true health comes from balance—supporting the body with the right food, movement, and mindset to prevent illness before it starts. Her approach is warm, thoughtful, and deeply rooted in understanding the everyday stresses that quietly impact our well-being.

00:00:00 – Time Constraints in Medical Practice
00:02:08 – Dr. Ghyssaert’s Journey to Family Medicine
00:03:23 – The Heart of Patient Care
00:07:05 – Nutrition as a Foundational Tool
00:10:06 – Prevention, Medicine & Specialization
00:14:23 – Evidence-Based Practice & Lifelong Learning
00:19:13 – The Modern Family Doctor’s Role
00:22:05 – Systemic Pressures vs. Holistic Care
00:26:23 – What is Holistic & Integrative Medicine?
00:29:10 – Empowering Through Education & Time
00:34:56 – Working with Specialists & Mental Health
00:36:25 – Doctor-Patient Relationships Across Cultures
00:40:19 – Initial Testing & Personalized Parameters
00:46:18 – Heavy Metals, Microplastics & the Microbiome
00:54:37 – Rebalancing Biochemistry with Supplements & Diet
00:57:54 – Smart Supplementation: Myths, Food Quality & Bioavailability
01:04:07 – Case Study: Supplement Success Story
01:06:51 – Supplement Quality & Regulation
01:07:42 – GLP-1 Medications & Metabolic Health
01:14:23 – Nutrient Deficiencies & Monitoring on GLP-1s
01:17:17 – Insulin Resistance, Blood Sugar & Diets
01:21:48 – Wearables & Glucose Monitoring
01:24:13 – Stress, Cortisol & Hormonal Health
01:28:05 – Women’s & Men’s Health: Hormones, Menopause & More
01:41:39 – AI in Medicine & the Future of Healthcare
01:46:59 – Final Reflections & Advice

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Dr Indhira: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/indhira-ghyssaert-078a106a/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:  
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/ 
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #h

Anna Lena Middeldorf, Nutritionist at The Balance, shares her deeply personal story of suddenly losing hearing in one ear overnight—a profound experience that reshaped her understanding of health beyond the surface. As a nutritionist, she explains why it’s time to stop fearing food and reveals the powerful connection between the microbiome and mental health, emphasizing that we truly are what we absorb. Anna Lena also discusses why fasting during certain menstrual phases can do more harm than good, and why mental and physical health must be addressed together for lasting well-being.

🔗 Watch now for a conversation that will change the way you see the powerful connection between nutrition, mental health, and overall well-being.

About Anna:
Anna-Lena Middeldorf is an academically trained Rehabilitation Pedagogue (BA) specializing in psychosocial rehabilitation and holds a Master’s degree in Human Nutrition (MHSc). She offers individualized, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle counseling that considers each person’s lifestyle, preferences, and possibilities. Anna works holistically to gently reshape diet and habits in a way that fits seamlessly into everyday life for lasting change. Her goal is to provide emotional support and professional guidance to help maintain long-term physical and mental health.
 
00:00 – Nutrition Myths & Mindful Eating
00:46 – Meet Anna: From Rehab to Nutrition Counselling
01:42 – Fertility Clinic Work & Motivations for Change
05:06 – A Health Crisis That Changed Everything
09:19 – How Illness Built Empathy & Insight
10:33 – Busting Common Nutrition Myths
11:45 – The Role of Social Media in Food Confusion
12:56 – Why One-Size-Fits-All Nutrition Doesn’t Work
14:20 – Intermittent Fasting: What You Should Know
16:48 – Coffee on an Empty Stomach & Breakfast Timing
20:07 – Glucose Spikes, Mood, & Energy
23:59 – Gut Health: Microbiome & Mental Wellness
25:59 – Nutrition Foundations Over Food Trends
28:11 – Mindful Eating & Digestion
33:09 – Cultural Eating Orders & Glucose Regulation
35:27 – Glucose, Insulin, & Mental Health Links
41:15 – Gender Differences in Nutrition
44:57 – Nutrition for Aging & Menopause
48:47 – Stress, Cortisol & Libido
51:20 – Essential Nutrients: Vitamin D, Omega-3s & More
58:04 – Nutrition & Mental Health in Detox
01:08:11 – Emotional Roots of Disordered Eating
01:11:29 – Gut-Brain Healing & Empowered Clients
01:18:00 – Daily Practices: Planning, Gratitude & Mindfulness
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Anna Lena: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-lena-middeldorf/

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/ https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #nutrition #nutritiontips #diet #food #health #healthylifestyle #motivation #mood #happy #recovery #wellnessjourney #wellness #wellbeing  #foodlover #relationship #eating #eatingdisordertreatment #eatingdisorder #bulimiarecovery #healingjourney

Petró Kohut, Rolfing & Somatic Trauma Therapist at The Balance, brings a grounded, compassionate approach to healing that goes beyond just relieving pain. In this episode, he opens up about the ways our bodies carry stress, hold memories, and reflect the stories we’ve lived—often without us even realizing it. Through touch, movement, and deep listening, Petró helps people reconnect with themselves, release long-held tension, and move toward real, lasting change. It’s a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t just happen in the mind—it lives in the body too.

🔗 Watch now for a conversation that will shift how you think about the body’s role in emotional and mental well-being.

About Petro: Petró Kohut has spent over two decades in the helping field, offering a deep and evolving blend of manual therapy, bodywork, Rolfing®, and trauma healing. His work focuses on addressing the root causes of tension and pain—posture, movement patterns, and unresolved trauma—through hands-on techniques that engage the body’s myo-fascial system. With a strong foundation in Remedial and Sports Massage, he has expanded his practice to include Structural Integration and is currently training in Somatic Experiencing. Passionate about men’s work and human potential, Petró creates sessions that are not only physically transformative but often emotionally profound.

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Feeling Emotions and Reconnecting with the Body
[00:02:44] – Petro’s Journey in Bodywork
[00:06:00] – Understanding the Body-Mind Connection
[00:09:41] – Building Real Awareness in the Body
[00:12:24] – Intellectual Responses vs. Emotional Presence
[00:16:20] – What Causes Disconnection? Trauma, Pressure, and Upbringing
[00:18:20] – Emotional Impact of Boarding Schools and Lack of Safety
[00:21:26] – Personal Growth Through Trauma and Reconnection
[00:22:39] – What Is Rolfing? Petro’s Introduction to Structural Realignment
[00:24:17] – The Method Behind Rolfing: Realigning the Body’s Integrity
[00:26:26] – Movement as Integration: How the Body Learns to Feel Safe
[00:29:05] – Addressing Long-Held Patterns Stored in the Body
[00:31:40] – Simple Practices to Support Body Awareness Daily
[00:34:31] – The Therapist’s Role in Guiding Embodied Healing
[00:37:00] – Why Mind and Body Must Be Treated Together
[00:41:12] – Inside a Somatic Experiencing Session
[00:44:11] – Grounding Through Sensation: Using Anchors for Presence
[00:48:39] – How Somatic Work Transforms Long-Term Mental Health
[00:52:19] – Stories of Healing: Witnessing Deep Body-Mind Shifts
[01:03:00] – Maintaining Personal Balance 

For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website:     https://balancerehabclinic.com/

Follow Petro Kohut: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/petr%C3%B3-kohut-91412672/

Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/          

You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: 
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF

Follow The Balance RehabClinic:  
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #ptsd #traumainformed #trauma #traumahealing #safety #rolfing #somatichealing #body #bodyawareness #posture #postureimprovement #workout #mindbodyconnection #healingjourney #wellness #wellbeing #health #healthy

David Cornwell, psychotherapist at The Balance, specializing in depression, trauma, and nervous system healing, breaks down the subtle yet powerful ways the body holds and processes our experiences. In this episode, he explores how awareness, presence, and somatic practices can lead to real transformation. From the irony of wealth to the wisdom of the nervous system, David invites us to slow down, feel more deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters.
 
🔗 Watch now for a conversation that just might change the way you think about the connection between your body, mind, and emotions.
 
About David: David Cornwell is an accredited psychotherapist with a Master’s in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy from Oxford and over 25 years of personal mindfulness practice. He specializes in body-centered approaches to healing trauma, depression, and chronic stress, combining talk therapy with somatic techniques and EMDR. After living with asthma for 35 years, David developed a program that helped him become completely medication-free — an experience that deeply informs his work. Today, at The Balance, he supports clients in releasing long-held tension and reconnecting with their innate capacity to heal, blending psychotherapy, mindfulness, and body awareness into a truly integrative path to transformation.
 
[00:00:00] – What Is Meditation? A Simple Introduction
[00:02:12] – How Therapy and Meditation Changed David’s Life
[00:04:25] – Healing Trauma Through Mind-Body Integration
[00:06:58] – Training in Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy Explained
[00:08:19] – Learning from Chris Cullen and Oxford’s Influence
[00:09:31] – The Neuroscience Behind Mindfulness and Healing
[00:12:00] – Personal Growth: How Meditation Shapes the Self
[00:16:18] – Regulating Emotions Through Early Meditation Practice
[00:20:33] – Finding Joy and Presence Through Various Meditations
[00:24:28] – Building Body Awareness Through Mindfulness Practices
[00:27:17] – The Roots and Rise of Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy
[00:30:05] – Transforming Pain: Mindfulness as a Structured Path
[00:34:02] – Unpacking Childhood Patterns Through Mindful Therapy
[00:36:27] – Trauma Awareness and the Power of Being Present
[00:40:22] – Everyday Mindfulness Across Cultures and Routines
[00:41:01] – The Science of Mindful Eating and Neural Shifts
[00:44:57] – How to Stay Mindful in the Chaos of Daily Life
[00:46:48] – Recognising Autopilot Mode and Creating New Experiences
[00:51:56] – Understanding Processing Styles, Decisions, and Low Mood
[00:55:53] – Deepening Embodied Awareness Through Breathwork
[00:58:36] – Guided Practice: Creating Space from Emotions
[01:06:00] – Mindfulness for Simplicity and High-Pressure Lifestyles
[01:13:01] – Somatic Therapy and Stories of Deep Transformation
[01:20:22] – Rediscovering Joy and Creativity After Trauma
[01:25:47] – Redefining Masculinity: Mental Health and Vulnerability
[01:30:56] – Daily Practices and Global Well-Being Advice
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow David Cornwell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ernest-cornwell/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/          
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here: 
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:  
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #wisdom #wisdomquotes #gratitude #body #balance #emotional #mentalhealth #traumainformed #science #transformation #meditation #traumahe

Gita Chaudhuri, Head of Psychotherapy at The Balance RehabClinic, breaks down the importance of understanding our emotions and the role they play in signaling our needs. She explores how modern society struggles with discomfort, the nature of obsessive overthinking, and the deep connection between trauma and childhood attachment. Drawing from her personal journey, she shares how early experiences shaped her path as a therapist and offers insights on finding balance, fulfillment, and true happiness in the present moment.
 
🔗 Watch now for a conversation that just might change the way you think about mental health.
 
About Gita Chaudhuri: With over 20 years of experience, Gita has dedicated her career to psychotherapy and counselling, offering compassionate, expert care in Mallorca since 2002. Her holistic approach integrates diverse therapeutic disciplines, emphasizing the deep connection between mental, emotional, and physical well-being. As a Head Therapist at The Balance and a lecturer in systemic therapy, she is committed to empowering clients and sharing her expertise to support lasting transformation.

[00:00:00] - Introduction to Emotions 
[00:01:29] - Gita’s Journey to Becoming a Therapist
[00:04:22] - Understanding Childhood Trauma
[00:05:30] - Support Systems and Sibling Connection
[00:06:17] - Life Experience vs. Clinical Education
[00:07:57] - Overcoming Trauma & Finding Resilience
[00:09:08] - The Modern Mental Health Crisis
[00:10:55] - Digital Connections vs. Real Emotion
[00:13:49] - Disconnection from the Body & Emotions
[00:15:10] - How Tech Impacts Emotional Awareness
[00:16:52] - The Pressure to Perform in Today’s Society
[00:18:46] - Emotional Regulation in a Digital Age
[00:20:07] - Attachment Theory & Emotional Growth
[00:24:03] - What Therapy Really Offers
[00:26:59] - Breaking the Stigma Around Therapy
[00:31:02] - What is Integrative Psychotherapy?
[00:34:37] - Building a Holistic Therapy Toolbox
[00:44:02] - Understanding the Nature of Trauma
[00:50:56] - Attachment in Family & Relationships
[00:57:10] - How to Navigate Narcissistic Dynamics
[01:06:22] - Managing Obsessive Overthinking
[01:11:25] - Eating Disorders & Social Media Pressure
[01:17:33] - Supporting Loved Ones with Eating Disorders
[01:21:29] - Defining Happiness vs. Fulfillment
[01:33:28] - Final Wisdom: The Power of Self-Awareness
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/
 
Follow Gita Chaudhuri: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gita-chaudhuri-7235611b/

Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #happy #happiness #traumainformed #trauma #traumahealing #support #siblings #connection #relationship #experience #resilience #mentalhealth #emotional #holistichealth #family #eating #eatingdisordertreatment #socialmedia #pressure #wisdom #wellness #wellbeing

Dr. Sarah Boss, Clinical Director at The Balance RehabClinic breaks down what’s missing in mental health today—why over-diagnosis is rising, how therapy goes beyond just talking, and what science tells us about trauma and resilience. From the gut-brain connection to the future of psychiatry, this conversation dives deep into the complexities of modern mental health care—what’s working, what’s not, and where we go from here.
 
🔗 Watch now for a conversation that just might change the way you think about mental health.
 
About Dr. Sarah Boss: With extensive training in psychiatry, psychotherapy, neuromodulation, and functional medicine, Dr. Boss combines cutting-edge science with a holistic approach to treat clients comprehensively.

[00:00:00] - Dr. Sarah - Clinical Director 
[00:00:47] - Dr. Boss’s Journey & Motivation
[00:02:30] - The Evolving Field of Psychiatry & Holistic Training
[00:06:56] - Misconceptions About Psychiatry & When to Seek Help
[00:10:12] - Preventative Approaches, Cultural Differences & Society’s Impact on Mental Health
[00:17:09] - Understanding Different Mental Health Specialties
[00:22:20] - Loneliness, Community & the Role of Social Support
[00:29:35] - Genetics, Epigenetics & Intergenerational Trauma
[00:32:56] - Misconceptions About Mental Health & Empowerment Through Neuroplasticity
[00:40:33] - Root Causes of Symptoms & The Risk of Quick Fixes
[00:45:42] - Integrative Psychiatry, Nervous System Regulation & Holistic Approaches
[00:53:41] - Challenges in Healthcare & The Role of General Practitioners
[00:57:02] - Understanding Trauma: Self-Regulation, Balance & Safe Healing Environments
[01:09:48] - Combining Therapies for Better Outcomes
[01:12:10] - Neuromodulation, TMS & Neurofeedback for ADHD
[01:20:16] - The Power of Individualized Mental Health Care
[01:25:39] - Group Therapy vs. Individual Therapy: Benefits and Considerations
[01:27:16] - Book Recommendation: The Anxious Generation
[01:29:00] - Technology’s Growing Impact on Mental Health
[01:32:14] - Lessons from Clients & Personal Growth
[01:34:51] - Dr Sarah Boss’s #1 Advice for Mental Well-being
 
For further mental health information and support, visit The Balance RehabClinic website: https://balancerehabclinic.com/

Follow Dr Sarah Boss: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-med-univ-sarah-boss-881761105/
 
Follow Abdullah Boulad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullahboulad/
https://www.instagram.com/abdullahboulad/
 
You can order Abdullah’s book, ‘Living A Life In Balance’, here:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BC9S5TCF
 
Follow The Balance RehabClinic:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebalancerehabclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/thebalancerehabclinic/

#healing #podcast #mentalhealth #therapist #therapy #trauma #traumainformed #traumahealing #resilience #happy #health #love #safe #relationship #relaxing #support #humanity #wellness #wellbeing #treatment #community #family #health