Best Schema Therapy Podcasts (2025)

Send us a text Have you ever looked back at a relationship and thought, “Why didn’t I walk away sooner?” You’re not alone — and it’s not about weakness or denial. In this episode, Dr. Gemma Gladstone explores seven powerful psychological reasons we tend to ignore red flags in relationships — especially in the early stages. Drawing on schema therapy…

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117. How She Stopped Choosing Emotionally Unavailable Men — A Real Case Journey 51:00

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Send us a text Meet Sophie, a 37-year-old woman who spent years feeling stuck in painful relationship cycles. Like many women I work with, she kept attracting emotionally unavailable or narcissistic men — despite knowing, deep down, that something wasn’t right. In this episode, I’ll walk you through Sophie’s journey: from identifying her relational…

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Episode 56: New Developments and Proposed Tweaks to the Schema Therapy Model with Professor Arnoud Arntz

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In this episode we speak with Professor Arnoud Arntz, a founding developer and researcher of the Schema Therapy Model. We discuss new developments and proposed changes to the schema model- a must watch! Willing to help with Professor Arntz research into the new SMI- visit https://www.schema-therapy-instruments.socsci.uva.nl/…

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#181 – Dr Zhi Yi Ong on The Neurobiological Mechanisms of Food Intake and Addiction 1:18:26

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr. Zhi Yi Ong about the neurobiology of food intake, exploring how gut-brain interactions shape eating behavior and its connection to addiction. Zhi Yi Ong is a Senior Lecturer and ARC Future Fellow at the UNSW School of Psychology. She completed her PhD in Biomedical Science at the Univ…

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116: Why Do We Minimize Harm in Relationships? Understanding the Psychology Behind Tolerating Abuse 58:58

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Send us a text In this important solo episode, Gemma reflects on a disturbing real-life conversation overheard between two teenage girls — one of whom casually describes being physically assaulted by her boyfriend. What follows is a powerful deep dive into why girls and women downplay harmful, even abusive, behaviour in relationships. From shame, t…

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Compassion Focused Therapy, with Dr Stan Steindl 1:09:05

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Dr Lars Madsen is joined by Dr Stan Steindl to discuss the principles of compassion-focused therapy (CFT) and its application in forensic settings. They explore how CFT can support clients, and consider how compassion might play a role in managing shame and building emotional regulation. They also discuss the integration of CFT with schema therapy …

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Episode 55: Schema Therapy in Chinese and other Collectivist Cultures: Implications for Clinical Practice & Training in the Model Beatrice Ng-Kessler & Rob Brockman

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By Hayes and Brockman

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#180 – Lana Tikhomirov on the Ethics of AI in Human Decision-Making 1:07:53

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Lana Tikhomirov about the intersection of AI and human decision-making, exploring its ethical concerns, cognitive challenges, and growing role in high-stakes fields like healthcare. Lana Tikhomirov is an AI safety researcher at the Australian Institute for Machine Learning, where she focu…

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115 – Healing for Love: Why Reparenting Your Abandoned Inner Child is the First Step to Secure Relationships 44:42

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Send us a text In this solo episode, Gemma explores one of the most foundational concepts when it comes to healing relationship patterns—the abandonment schema. Whether you're currently dating or in a long-term relationship, understanding your own abandonment schema and how it influences your emotions, choices, and reactions is essential for cultiv…

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#179 – Dr Simon Byrne on Evolving Treatments for Anxiety and Children’s Mental Health 1:05:42

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Simon Byrne about evolving approaches to anxiety treatment—including CBT and ACT—and how evidence-based models can better support children’s mental health. Dr Simon Byrne is a Lecturer at the University of Queensland (UQ) since 2021. He completed a PhD/Masters of Clinical Psychology in…

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Stoicism: From Philosophy to Psychology, with Massimo Pigliucci 58:18

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In this episode of Beyond the Crime, Dr Lars Madsen sits down with philosopher and author Massimo Pigliucci to explore the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and its relevance in today's world. They delve into the origins of Stoicism, its core principles, and how it aligns with modern psychological concepts like the 'Healthy Adult' in schema therapy. M…

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114. Are You Dating As Your True Self — Or a Coping Mode? 43:46

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Send us a text The Red Flag Project – Learn how to break free from toxic relationship patterns – theredflagproject.com Schema Coaching & Support – Work with Dr. Gemma Gladstone Support the show 🩷Love Wisely - Doors are now closed. Join the WAITLIST to be the first to know when the doors open for the next cohort (Sept, 25). 🚩The Red Flag Project onl…

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Episode 54: The YSQ- R Questionniare Update with Dr Oz Yalcin

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By Hayes & Brockman

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Lone Actor Violence (Part 2): The Gabriel Wortman Case, with Dr Nathan Brooks 1:05:41

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In this episode of Beyond the Crime, hosts Shay Addison and Dr. Lars Madsen continue their deep dive into lone actor violence, with a focused exploration of the infamous case of Gabriel Wortman. Joined by expert Dr. Nathan Brooks, they examine the forensic psychology behind Wortman’s actions through the lens of schema modes. Send us a Message…

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113. The Mailbox – Healing from the Mother Wound: Letting Go of the Hope That Keeps You Stuck 26:24

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Send us a text In this mailbox episode, we dive into a listener question from Amy (name changed for privacy), who is struggling with the trauma bond with her narcissistic and emotionally neglectful mother. Amy shares her experience of emotional neglect, manipulation, gaslighting, and rejection—all while navigating the complicated reality of trying …

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Episode 53: Name That Mode!: The Importance of Naming Modes in Collaboration with Clients, to Increase engagement and Awareness

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By Hayes & Brockman

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#178 – Dr Poppy Watson on Compulsive Reward-seeking Behaviour 1:09:35

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Poppy Watson about compulsive reward-seeking behavior, commonly seen in drug or gambling addiction, but also in more subtle forms that influence our everyday actions and habits. The research interests of Dr Poppy Watson lie at the intersection of motivation, attention and choice behavi…

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112. Breaking Free from People-Pleasing: Six Questions to Help You Reconnect with Yourself 46:57

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Send us a text In this episode, Dr Gemma takes a deep dive into one of the most common and persistent life patterns—people-pleasing. If you've ever found yourself constantly prioritizing others' needs over your own, struggling to say no, or feeling exhausted from always trying to keep the peace, this episode is for you. She explores: ✅ What people-…

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#177 – Dr Amy Peden on Global Drowning Prevention Through Research and Advocacy 1:23:32

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Amy Peden about the global drowning crisis, the key risk factors involved, and what can be done to reduce these tragic incidents. Dr Amy Peden is a Senior Research Fellow in the School of Population Health at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney Australia, where she is al…

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Episode 52: Schema Therapy Q & A with Wendy Behary and Rob Brockman

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By Hayes & Brockman

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#176 – Dr Robyn Walser on Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with Trauma 1:18:46

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr. Robyn Walser about using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help individuals navigate and heal from trauma. Robyn D Walser, PhD is an internationally recognized clinical psychologist, educator, and author. She is the Director of Trauma and Life Consultation and Psychology Serv…

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111. Seven Deadly Sins of the Narcissistic Dater: Red Flags You Can’t Ignore 47:52

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Send us a text Episode Description: Are you dating someone new and wondering if they’re truly a good match? Or do you have a pattern of attracting emotionally unavailable or narcissistic partners? In this episode, Gemma breaks down The 7 Deadly Sins of the Narcissistic Dater—key warning signs that indicate deeper personality issues and potential to…

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#175 – Ahu Kocak on Suicide Assessment and Prevention Strategies 53:46

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Ahu Kocak about her experience in developing suicide assessment and prevention strategies in correctional settings. Ahu Kocak is endorsed in Forensic Psychology with over 14 years experience in prison, court and private practice settings. She holds a Bachelor of Science Psychology, Master…

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110. Q&A: Understanding Emotional Availability and Narcissistic Family Challenges 39:04

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Send us a text Episode Overview: In this engaging Q&A episode, Dr. Gemma Gladstone answers two listener questions, diving into the nuances of emotional availability in relationships and managing complex dynamics with a narcissistic parent. Key Topics Covered: Emotional Availability in Relationships How to assess emotional availability beyond just w…

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#174 – Ben Newell on The Role of Behavioural Science in Promoting Climate Action 1:35:20

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Ben Newell about the power of behavioral science and the role that psychology can play in motivating individuals and societies to take meaningful action on climate change. Ben Newell is Professor of Behavioural Science in the School of Psychology at UNSW Sydney, and Director of the UNSW I…

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109. When Family Ties Hurt: Navigating Estrangement and Difficult Relationships 36:02

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Send us a text Episode Overview: In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Dr. Justine Corry shares her experience of family estrangement, reflecting on her relationship with a narcissistic mother and the impact on her life. Dr. Gemma Gladstone joins the conversation as they both discuss the psychological toll of estrangement and how schema t…

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Episode 51: The Keys to Developing Skills and Competency In Schema Therapy: A Roundtable Discussion with Tara Cutland Green

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The Keys to Developing Skills and Competency In Schema Therapy: A Roundtable Discussion with Tara Cutland Green Deliberate Practice in Schema Therapy https://www.apa.org/pubs/books/deliberate-practice-schema-therapy#:~:text=Deliberate%20Practice%20in%20Schema%20Therapy%20provides%20a%20practical%20guide%20to,then%20change%20their%20unhelpful%20reac…

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108. Which Life Script Do You Want to Let Go of This Year? 37:23

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Send us a text Happy New Year! In this first episode of 2025, Gemma invites you to reflect on the life scripts and recurring patterns that no longer serve you and take intentional steps toward rewriting them. Life scripts are the unconscious stories and patterns that shape how we think, feel, and behave, often holding us back from living authentica…

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#173 – Professor Kim Delbaere on Promoting Healthy Ageing 1:16:11

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Professor Kim Delbaere about understanding physical, psychological and cognitive factors causing falls as well as topics about promoting healthy ageing. Professor Kim Delbaere is a Senior Principal Research Scientist and Director of Innovation & Translation at the Falls, Balance & Injury …

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ENCORE + More: 73. Six Strategies for dealing with difficult relatives over the Holidays 51:22

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Send us a text Welcome to the final Episode for this year! We will be back with new episodes in 2025. Support the show 🩷Love Wisely - Doors are now closed. Join the WAITLIST to be the first to know when the doors open for the next cohort (Sept, 25). 🚩The Red Flag Project online course >> Get instant access. 💻Schema Circle Vault – Get your essential…

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Episode 50: Eating Your Schema Broccoli and Opening up the "Can of Worms"; Metaphors and Axioms in Schema Therapy Practice

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In this episode, Rob the “Mode Mystic” and Chris discuss metaphors and how these can be used and implemented in Schema therapyBy Hayes & Brockman

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107. The Guilt Game: Inside The Martyr Mode 33:29

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Send us a text In this episode of we dive deep into the "martyr mode," a coping style often discussed in schema therapy. We explore what it means to have a martyr complex or mode, how it shows up in relationships, and the emotional dynamics that fuel this behaviour. Key topics covered include: The defining traits of the martyr mode and how it may s…

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#172 –Dr. Stefan Carlo Michalski on Virtual Reality for Life Skills in Intellectual Disabilities 1:16:54

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr. Stefan Carlo Michalski about using an AI-powered VR application to build life skills and improve healthcare access for people with intellectual disabilities. Dr. Stefan Michalski is a Research Fellow in the National Centre of Excellence in Intellectual Disability Health at the Univers…

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106. Healthy Adult Daily Practice: An Intentional Reflection Tool 19:27

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Send us a text Healthy Adult Daily Practice: An Intentional Reflection Tool In this episode, Gemma introduces a practical tool called Healthy Adult Daily Practice, designed to help you strengthen and nurture your Healthy Adult mode. Building on the foundational features of the Healthy Adult mode discussed in the previous episode, this episode walks…

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105. 7 Essential Characteristics of the Healthy Adult Mode 51:53

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Send us a text In this episode, Gemma dives into the cornerstone of schema therapy: the Healthy Adult mode. This is the part of us that represents balance, wisdom, and compassion—our best self that helps us navigate relationships, emotions, and life’s challenges effectively. What You’ll Learn: Mindfulness: Why mindfulness is the foundational buildi…

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#171 – Jacinta Hawgood on Suicide Research and Prevention 1:22:11

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Jacinta Hawgood about evaluating suicide prevention training programs, their effectiveness, and the critical role they play in reducing suicide rates. Jacinta Hawgood is Associate Professor and Program Director of Suicidology at the Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention…

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104: The Good, the Bad and the Bond: Understanding Trauma Bonding. 47:37

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Send us a text In this solo episode, Gemma dives deep into the concept of trauma bonding, shedding light on why some people feel emotionally tethered to unhealthy or toxic relationships. Drawing from listener questions she explores the psychological mechanisms behind trauma bonds, including the powerful dynamic of the "good-bad ratio" and how it ca…

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Episode 49: New Developments In Schema Therapy: Research & Practice - Connect Conference 2024

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This episode is from our 2024 Connect Conference in Sydney (November 2024) with Rob Brockman presenting on New Developments in Research and PracticeBy Hayes & Brockman

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103. A Deep Dive into the Self-Sacrifice Schema 39:57

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Send us a text This episode will resonate with anyone struggling with an overdeveloped sense of responsibility to others and those who feel “stuck” in cycles of overgiving. In this solo episode, Gemma dives deep into the self-sacrifice schema, exploring how it manifests, its origins in family dynamics, and the toll it takes on those who constantly …

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Special Announcement Podcast - Message from Chris & Rob - ISST Board Election Open - International Society for Schema Therapy

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By Hayes & Brockman

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ENCORE. Dating with an abandonment schema: Coping with triggers 41:45

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Send us a text New Group Coaching Program: "Date Differently": A 6-week online group coaching program designed to help women build self-trust, set boundaries, and date with confidence. Starts November 6th. SIGN UP BEFORE 26TH OCT AND SAVE! Spots are limited. Signature Course – The Red Flag Project: This newly updated course covers schemas, red flag…

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Lone-Actor Violence: Insights and Interventions, with Dr Nathan Brooks (Part 1) 1:01:40

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In this episode of Beyond The Crime, Dr Lars Madsen is joined by Dr Nathan Brooks to explore the psychological analysis of lone-actor violence. They discuss critical risk factors, including fixation, grievance, identity shifts, and direct threats. Dr Brooks emphasizes the importance of early intervention and addressing underlying issues to prevent …

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#170 – Dr Lydia Brown on Navigating the Journey of Menopause and Aging 1:09:23

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Lydia Brown about understanding and enhancing well-being during the menopause transition and aging. Lydia Brown is a Clinical Psychologist and Senior Lecturer at the School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne. She earned her PhD in 2015, focusing on self-compassion a…

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Episode 48 Keeping it Real! Authenticity in Schema Therapy and the Use of AI with Dr Michiel van Vreeswijk

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In today's episode, we meet with Michiel van Vreeswijk who is a Clinical Psychologist, Advanced Schema Therapist and researcher based in Delft Netherlands. We discussed the concept of authenticity and how we can be more real within schema therapy. We also discuss the application of AI and how these can be useful within the schema therapy context, d…

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Lie Detection: Schema Modes and Deception (Part 2) 42:15

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In this follow-up to Part 1; 'Lie Detection: Polygraph Testing with Sexual Offenders, with Don Grubin', hosts Shay Addison, Dr Lars Madsen, and Dr Rob Brockman delve deeper into the complexities of deception in forensic psychology. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by professionals working within correctional systems. Gain insights i…

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102. Dating Without Fear: 8 Common Anxieties and How to Overcome Them 35:57

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Send us a text New Group Coaching Program: "Date Differently": A 6-week online group coaching program designed to help women build self-trust, set boundaries, and date with confidence. Starts November 6th. SIGN UP BEFORE 26TH OCT AND SAVE! Spots are limited. Signature Course – The Red Flag Project: This newly updated course covers schemas, red flag…

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#169 – Jill Maree Newby on Technology-Based Interventions for Depression and Anxiety 1:00:01

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In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Professor Jill Maree Newby about innovative technology-based interventions for depression and anxiety, highlighting the impact and effectiveness of internet and e-mental health approaches in modern mental health care. Jill Maree Newby is an Australian psychologist who is a professor and N…

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ENCORE: 41. Dating with an Abandonment Schema Part 1 31:50

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Send us a text Special Announcements: New Group Coaching Program: "Date Differently": A 6-week online group coaching program designed to help women build self-trust, set boundaries, and date with confidence. Starts November 6th. SIGN UP BEFORE 26TH OCT AND SAVE! Signature Course – The Red Flag Project: This newly updated course covers schemas, red …