In this unique episode of Breaking Through Therapy, we explore the rarely seen courage of a retired man’s experience of overcoming an eating disorder.

“Eric” joins us on the show as we welcome back Joanna Oates, his former Nutritional Psychotherapist. Living well with a diagnosis of bipolar depression, Eric shares his inspiring journey through perfectionism, self-sabotage and alcoholism; as well as incredible weight loss and 14 years of sobriety.

Together, they uncover how their collaboration not only addressed Eric’s immediate concerns about addictive eating patterns, but also guided him through a sustainable weight loss journey several years after gastric band surgery.

An effective technique was “stepping stones” by Robert Diltz. Eric learned to visualize his goals amidst life's pressures, particularly during the challenges of directing a show. This compassionate approach, enriched by faith and community support, offered Eric a framework to enhance his mental resilience and manage stress and emotional eating more effectively.

Balanced nutrition and its role in emotional well-being take center stage, as Eric shares how refining his eating patterns under Joanna's guidance improved his mood and energy. The power of food diaries, and experimenting with food choices, were important in fostering long-term positive changes and prolonging Eric's life and quality of life.

This conversation highlights the significance of open dialogues in therapy, the empowering dynamics of therapeutic relationships, and the invaluable support of finding a therapist who embraces both similarities and differences. This is a relationship developed over several years and life-chapters, which would be irreplaceable with artificial intelligence.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Breaking Through Therapy, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more impactful conversations on mental health, resilience and the client-therapist relationship. Help us spread the word by sharing this episode and fundraising through our page for NHS Charities Together!

Resources:

Lifespan Psychology - The Diverse Practice®

Lifespan BOSS Coaching

Dr Esther Cole - Linkedin

Lifespan Psychology Instagram

Joanna Oates:

Email: hello@joannaoates.com

Website: https://joannaoates.com

Crisis Numbers:

NSPCC

Samaritans - 116 123

Childline - 0800 1111

CALM - 0800 585858

If you are in need of urgent assistance for your mental health, please contact your GP or GP Out of Hours number on 111, call 999 or attend your nearest accident & emergency (A&E) department. If you are listening from overseas, please find out the local equivalent charities and government mental health services in your country.

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