Overcoming Trauma: Hayley Leishman's Path to Healing
Episode Overview
The link between trauma and addiction. Importance of small wins in recovery. Challenges of addressing pornography addiction. Need for emotional intimacy in relationships. Insight on EMDR therapy's effectiveness.
The answers are within them. Watching someone's brain just kind of move the parts around and rearrange things during EMDR is nothing short of miraculous.
In the latest episode of the Addict II Athlete Podcast, Coach Blu Robinson is joined by Hayley Leishman, who returns to share her journey in the realm of addiction recovery. Hayley, a certified coach and master's degree holder in counseling and social work, discusses her path from recreational therapy to addressing deeper issues such as trauma and addiction.
The conversation delves into the complex relationship between trauma and addiction, emphasizing the need for understanding and specialized education to safely navigate these sensitive areas. Hayley highlights the prevalence of trauma histories among individuals struggling with addiction, often hidden behind legal mandates in court-ordered treatments. Hayley passionately speaks about the importance of celebrating small victories in the recovery process, acknowledging the challenges faced by those dealing with behavioral addictions, especially pornography.
She notes the stigma surrounding such issues and the critical need for support systems for both individuals battling addiction and their partners. The podcast further explores emotional intimacy's role in relationships, particularly for young couples grappling with differing expectations about their sex life. Hayley underscores the significance of open communication and mutual understanding in fostering healthy relationships. A notable segment of the discussion is Hayley's insight into Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
She shares her admiration for the therapy's ability to unlock internal answers within clients, describing it as a miraculous process. Hayley identifies EMDR as a natural way of life, allowing clients to rearrange thoughts and emotions effectively. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for support, whether through addicttoathlete.org or directly to Hayley, who is described as a rock star in her field.
Blu emphasizes the importance of not facing these challenges alone, advocating for community support and teamwork in overcoming addiction. The episode is a testament to Hayley's dedication to her work, showcasing her compassionate approach to helping individuals navigate the arduous journey of recovery and healing.