In Therapy with Alex Howard

In this bonus episode of In Therapy, we explore how Belle's obsession with looking "perfect" is backfiring. She opens up about how her focus on flawless appearance is attracting shallow relationships, leaving her unfulfilled. I explain a profound truth: to find a deep, meaningful connection, you must first transform your relationship with yourself. Discover why balancing self-pride and authenticity is key to attracting the right kind of love.

It's Belle's final episode, marking the culmination of her incredible journey. Since our last session, she's embraced major life changes, moving back in with her parents and continuing to work hard to integrate the tools and insights she's gained along the way. Therapeutic work isn't about erasing the past but healing from it so we can open up to new possibilities in the present and the future. Belle's journey shows how commitment and courage can break the hold of past narratives, allowing her to live life on her own terms. Her story is a powerful reminder that your past doesn't define you—it's the work you do now that shapes your future. I hope her journey inspires you to take that first step toward healing, growth, and awakening your full potential.

In this episode of In Therapy, we delve into Belle's struggles with her body image, which we soon learn began with her father's criticisms during her childhood. Over time, these judgments became ingrained, transforming into a harmful internal narrative that controls her sense of self-worth. When we shine a light on our inner critic, we often realise it's pushing us to meet unattainable ideals, draining us in the process. By consciously choosing not to engage, we begin to reclaim the energy it has stolen. Though it's a gradual process, each step away from harsh self-criticism is a step toward body acceptance and self-love.

This episode of In Therapy explores Belle's childhood and the lack of emotional support that shaped her struggles with self-criticism and anxiety. We discuss how unmet emotional needs in childhood lead to unresolved wounds that affect self-love, relationships, and mental health as adults. Learn how early experiences shape your worldview and discover ways to heal and meet your emotional needs.

In this episode of In Therapy, Belle opens up about the key events she calls the 'troughs'—the moments she believes are at the root of her struggles. As we explore further, it becomes clear that these events are just symptoms of deeper issues from her past. Join us as we uncover the layers of Belle's trauma and the profound impact it has had on her life. In Therapy is a series that follows real people on their therapeutic journeys. In this season, we tackle common struggles like toxic self-talk, body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, and childhood trauma.

NEW SERIES OF IN THERAPY OUT NOW. Each series of In Therapy follows one person's therapeutic journey, told in weekly episodes. Join us as Belle, this season's courageous client, opens up about her experiences with vulnerability, self-worth, and her relationships with men. We'll also dive into powerful themes like toxic self-talk, body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, relationship trauma, and childhood wounds. Through her bravery and dedication, you'll gain valuable tools and insights to help transform your own life. Don't miss this powerful exploration of healing and personal growth!

In Part 4, witness the culmination of Paul's extraordinary inner transformation. After weeks of intensive healing work, he has now reached a place of emotional depth where he is able to listen to and hold his inner child, allowing him to process his childhood trauma. In the second half of this emotional closing episode, Paul writes and reads heartfelt letters at Zoey's memorial. Through this profound act, Paul's journey comes full circle, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity to find solace and closure even in the face of unimaginable loss.

In Part 2, Paul embarks on the path of addressing deeply buried emotions that have haunted him since childhood, all from a place of vulnerability and self-compassion. Together, we explore the concept of listening to and connecting with your inner child, peeling away the layers of trauma, and learning to give voice to suppressed feelings. We also discuss the significance of creating distance from your inner critic, a powerful force that can often hinder your progress in healing and growth, and we emphasise that childhood trauma is not your fault.

Life After Loss takes you on an emotional and transformative journey alongside Paul, a father bravely confronting his unimaginable grief following the loss of his daughter to suicide. Throughout this season, we delve into ways to navigate grief, liberate yourself from childhood trauma, and unlock your full potential in life. We also explore a fundamental question: Is it possible to heal after the loss of a child?

This week, we deep-dive into four of the stand-out themes from Pierre's journey over the last eight weeks, and I provide some ways in which you can work with them more directly too.

"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." – Dalai Lama Pierre has learnt that when things become uncomfortable, procrastination is the safest response. The problem is, this only delays the inevitable pain and causes more suffering. Changing patterns we have been practising for decades is not easy, but it is absolutely possible with diligence and patience.

Many of us feel like imposters in our lives. We either feel like we don't deserve the success we have now or that which we dream of creating in the future. If we want to change our lives for the better, we have to let go of the old stories we tell ourselves...

People often think anger, hatred and rage are bad emotions, and should be avoided. But the more you process and move through these emotions, the more power and control you'll have over your life.