Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how deeply childhood trauma and addiction are intertwined? Join me on this episode of the Surviving Trauma Stories of Hope podcast, where we welcome Jason Shears, an inspiring certified psychotherapist and transformative coach from Manchester, UK. Jason's story is a harrowing yet hopeful journey, from his early diagnosis and forced medication for depression, leading to heroin addiction at the tender age of 13, and imprisonment by 20. Despite achieving sobriety through a 12-step program, his struggle didn't end there. Seven years ago, Jason had a transformative awakening that changed his approach to helping others, shifting the perspective that people are not broken and that lasting change can indeed be simple. Our conversation digs into various forms of addiction—substance abuse, gambling, and even retail therapy—revealing how these behaviors often serve as masks for deeper, unresolved issues. We delve into the complex relationship between addiction, trauma, and the unconscious mind, drawing on profound insights from experts like Gabor Maté and Carl Jung. Jason shares how unaddressed childhood trauma and negative core beliefs can persist into adulthood, influencing behaviors and life outcomes. The episode underscores the importance of introspection and self-awareness in overcoming these deep-seated issues, with Jason illustrating his journey from being a service user to a professional psychotherapist. In our discussion on awakening, trauma, and self-discovery, Jason reflects on a spiritual awakening that altered his understanding of life and trauma. We explore the nuanced interplay between non-dual spiritual understanding and conditioned human responses, and the crucial role that transformative conversations and spiritual insights play in addiction recovery. Highlighting techniques like somatic experiencing and compassionate inquiry, Jason emphasizes the need to address root causes rather than just symptoms of addiction. This episode offers a beacon of hope and practical guidance for anyone grappling with addiction and trauma, proving that healing and transformation are truly within reach. If you wish to connect with Jason, check out his website and social media links below. Website: https://wideworldcoaching.com Website II: https://www.infiniterecoveryproject.com/how-it-works/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-shiers-79170991/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jvswwc Facebook II: https://www.facebook.com/wideworldcoaching/ Podcast: Misunderstandings of the Mind Connect with me by checking out mycenteredlife on social media, and leave me a comment to let me know what you think of the episode. Also please, head to Amazon, Takealot or Audible at the link and get your copy of my E-book, paperback book or audiobook edition, of Ray of Light, and please leave me a rating and review. It would mean the world to me. Facebook: My Centered Life Facebook Instagram: My Centered Life Instagram YouTube: Marlene McConnell MCL YouTube Channel Patreon: MCL Infinite Progress Society LinkedIn: Marlene McConnell LinkedIn Amazon.com Link: Support the show Please support the show on Paypal: PayPal.Me/marlenegmcconnell