Able to Care

Able Training Support Ltd

Join host Andy Baker (author, speaker and educator) for Able Training’s care-focused podcast Able to Care. For paid and unpaid caregivers, teachers and parents to better understand themselves and those they support. With twice-weekly episodes covering understanding people, promoting self-care and resilience, signposting support and services, strategies to reduce stress and distress, promoting good practice and ensuring positive outcomes for all. Includes special guest experts, caregivers and those with lived experience.

  1. 4H AGO

    Boundaries That Build Trust: Why Caregivers, Parents & Professionals Need Them

    In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker explores one of the most misunderstood tools in caregiving, parenting, and professional relationships: boundaries. Are boundaries about control? Far from it. Andy breaks down how healthy boundaries build trust, predictability, and safety, both at home and at work. From the challenges of setting boundaries with loved ones to the importance of consistency in professional care settings, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone supporting others. Whether you're a carer, parent, teacher, or team leader, this episode will help you see boundaries not as restrictions, but as roadmaps that help everyone navigate relationships more safely and successfully. 💡 Sponsor Message: This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK – the UK’s number one carers card offering discounts, support, and community connections for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Whether you're a paid or unpaid caregiver, Carers Card UK provides valuable benefits including: ✅ Discounts on gym memberships, days out, electrical goods, clothing, and glasses. ✅ Access to a wellbeing hub, Carers Circle tool, and a supportive app-based community. ✅ An ID card you can carry with pride that also holds emergency info. Let others know you care while taking a little care of yourself.🎟️ Visit Carers Card UK and order yours today using our promo link! 📝 Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🧠 Why Boundaries Matter in Every Relationship: How boundaries help us manage stress and protect relationships. The difference between personal and professional boundaries. Why boundaries aren’t about control – they’re about creating predictability and trust. 🛠️ Common Mistakes in Setting Boundaries: Inconsistency: Saying “no” sometimes, but not always. Using boundaries as punishment rather than guidance. Forgetting to explain the “why” behind your boundaries. 📚 Real-World Examples and Tools: What parenting and roller coasters have in common. The “taps and drains” model of energy management. When/then statements and how they reduce power struggles. 💬 Key Messages: Boundaries Create Safety, Not Control:They aren’t walls — they’re roadmaps for connection, respect, and emotional regulation. Consistency Builds Trust:Shifting boundaries cause confusion and pushback. Clear expectations help others feel secure. Lead by Example:Your boundaries only work if you model them too — especially with children or those you care for. ⏳ Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction: The misunderstanding of boundaries[00:17] – Sponsor Message: Carers Card UK[01:45] – What boundaries look like in customer service and care roles[03:56] – Why professional boundaries matter in care settings[05:05] – Personal boundaries and the challenge of being a people-pleaser[06:21] – Taps and drains: Understanding energy flow in relationships[07:01] – Boundaries for emotional regulation and behavior[08:07] – The roller coaster analogy: Why kids test boundaries[09:43] – Boundaries in parenting vs permissiveness[11:01] – Rules don’t ruin fun — they make it possible[12:14] – Common mistakes with boundaries: inconsistency and power struggles[13:22] – “Because…”: The psychology behind explaining your reasoning[14:50] – Influence and fairness when setting rules[15:38] – How to set boundaries effectively: clarity, simplicity, calm enforcement[16:27] – Using when/then language and modelling behaviour[17:24] – Hypocrisy and leadership: Follow the rules you set[18:03] – Final thoughts: Boundaries as a fresh start[18:36] – Bonus: What is Able Hub and how it supports carers and educators 📚 Further Resources: 🔗 Able Hub – Access 45+ online courses, bonus podcast content, and a supportive care community. 📘 Targeting the Positive – Andy Baker’s book on behaviour and emotional regulation. 📲 Connect with Us! 🔗 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast 🔗 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining 🔗 TikTok: @AbleToCare 🌐 Websit

    20 min
  2. 3D AGO

    Understanding Grooming and Childhood SA: A Survivor’s Story with Jeremy Indika

    🎙️ In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker speaks with Jeremy Indika – a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and founder of Something to Say. Jeremy bravely shares his story of being groomed as a child, the confusion and silence that followed, and why so many survivors don’t come forward until much later in life. Together, Andy and Jeremy explore the myths around abuse, the challenges survivors face when seeking justice, and what carers, teachers, and professionals can do to better support those affected. Whether you support children, teach, care for others, or want to understand more about trauma and healing, this is an essential listen.   💡 Sponsor Message:This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK – the UK’s number one carers card offering discounts, support, and community connections for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Whether you are a paid or unpaid caregiver, Carers Card UK provides valuable benefits such as: Discounts on gym memberships, days out, electrical goods, clothing, and more. Access to a wellbeing hub, Carers Circle tool, and a supportive community through their app. An ID card that you can carry with pride. Let others know you care – while taking a little care of yourself. Visit carerscarduk.co.uk to learn more and order your card today! 📝 Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🔇 Breaking the Silence on Childhood Sexual Abuse:Jeremy shares his personal story of abuse, the silence that followed, and the emotional confusion survivors often face. 🧠 Understanding Trauma Responses and Delayed Disclosure:How grooming works, why victims sometimes don’t see it as abuse at the time, and the long journey to finding words for what happened. ⚖️ Barriers to Justice & Why Survivors Stay Silent:From lack of evidence to emotional shutdown – Jeremy and Andy discuss the painful reality of reporting abuse and being believed. 🛠️ Supporting Survivors – What We Can Do Better:How educators, carers, and parents can create safe spaces for young people to disclose – and why our reactions matter. 💬 Key Takeaways: ✅ Survivors don’t always look or act how you’d expect – many are high-functioning, smiling, and hiding trauma in plain sight.✅ Education is everything – when we understand grooming and trauma, we’re better equipped to spot red flags and support disclosure.✅ Stories have power – by sharing his, Jeremy is breaking shame and helping others speak their truth. 📚 Further Resources: Something to Say Project – jeremyindika.com Able Hub – Access resources for carers, parents, and educators at ablehub.uk Targeting the Positive – Andy’s book on understanding and managing behaviour ⏳ Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction: Meet Jeremy Indika[02:25] – Jeremy’s story: Growing up and the first signs of grooming[06:00] – Why children don’t always realise they’re being abused[08:45] – Andy and Jeremy on how silence becomes survival[11:10] – The emotional confusion of being abused by someone you trust[13:40] – What prompted Jeremy to finally speak out[16:05] – The justice system: Why prosecution is so difficult[18:30] – Why male survivors especially find it hard to come forward[20:40] – What grooming really looks like – and what to watch for[23:15] – The power of listening without judgement[26:00] – What professionals and parents can do better[29:05] – Jeremy’s message to survivors: “You’re not alone”[31:00] – Final reflections and where to find more from Jeremy 📲 Connect with Us!🔗 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast🔗 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining🔗 TikTok: @AbleToCare🔗 Website: AbleHub.uk 🎧 Subscribe & Share!If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, share with someone who needs to hear it, and leave us a review. Let’s build a community where stories like Jeremy’s can be heard, honoured, and used to change lives.

    58 min
  3. APR 3

    How to Manage Stressful Situations Without Losing Control: Top Tips for Caregivers and Parents

    In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker explores why we sometimes react in unhelpful ways when confronted with challenging behavior. From snapping and withdrawing to going into full lecture mode, Andy breaks down the five most common default reactions and shares practical strategies to shift our responses for better outcomes. Learn how self-awareness and small shifts in mindset can help caregivers, educators, and parents respond more positively when stress levels rise. Whether at home, at work, or in care settings, this episode will empower you to recognize your patterns and make more thoughtful choices in the heat of the moment. 💡 Sponsor Message: This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK – the UK’s number one carers card offering discounts, support, and community connections for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Whether you are a paid or unpaid caregiver, Carers Card UK provides valuable benefits such as: Discounts on gym memberships, days out, electrical goods, clothing, and more. Access to a wellbeing hub, Carers Circle tool, and a supportive community through their app. An ID card that you can carry with pride. Let others know you care while taking a little care of yourself. Visit Carers Card UK to learn more and order your card today! 📝 Key Topics Covered in This Episode: ⚡ Recognizing Your Default Reactions: Understanding why our default reactions often lead us astray. How stress and emotional overload trigger automatic responses. 🚩 The Five Default Responses to Challenging Behavior: Withdrawal: Shutting down emotionally or physically and avoiding confrontation. Boundary Overdrive: Enforcing rigid rules without considering context or empathy. Consequence Overdrive: Issuing ultimatums or excessive punishments that may not be reasonable. Giving Up on Structure: Letting go of all rules and allowing chaos just to maintain peace. Lecture Mode: Over-explaining and talking at someone instead of engaging with them. 🛠️ Practical Strategies for Better Responses: Pause and Reflect: Taking a breath before reacting to assess your emotional state. Reframe and Shift Perspectives: Moving from a control mindset to a collaborative one. Becoming a Detective and Judge: Analyzing your own responses to understand why you reacted that way. Finding Balance: Mixing structure with understanding to maintain healthy boundaries. 💬 Key Takeaways:✅ Self-Awareness is Crucial: Recognizing your default reactions is the first step to changing them.✅ Pause Before You React: Even a single breath can prevent escalation.✅ Collaborate, Don’t Control: Shift from imposing rules to working together for positive outcomes.✅ Reflection is Essential: Journaling and post-incident reflection help identify patterns and areas to improve. 📚 Further Resources: Able Hub - Access exclusive content, training, and resources to help you manage stress and support others effectively. Targeting the Positive - Discover Andy Baker's book on understanding and managing challenging behavior. ⏳ Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction to Default Reactions [00:17] - Sponsor Message: Carers Card UK [01:37] - Understanding Stress and Emotional Triggers [03:21] - The Five Default Reactions: Withdrawal, Boundary Overdrive, Consequence Overdrive, Giving Up on Structure, Lecture Mode [08:08] - Practical Tips for Managing Your Reactions [12:44] - How to Build Better Self-Awareness [15:17] - Creating a Collaborative Approach to Behavior Management [18:02] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways 📲 Connect with Us! 🔗 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast🔗 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining🔗 TikTok: @AbleToCare🔗 Website: AbleHub.uk 🎧 Subscribe & Share! If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to help others discover how to better manage their reactions to challenging situations. Let’s create a community that supports and empowers each other!

    21 min
  4. MAR 31

    Trauma, Autonomy, and Advocacy: Navigating PDA with Julia Daunt and Ruth Fidler

    In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Julia Daunt and Ruth Fidler, co-authors of Being Julia. Together, they explore the realities of living with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), how it intersects with ADHD and psychotic episodes, and the challenges of navigating life with this often misunderstood condition. Julia shares her personal journey from childhood to adulthood, discussing the obstacles she faced and the strategies that helped her thrive. Ruth, an education consultant with over 30 years of experience, provides insight into the development of the book and the importance of advocacy for PDA. 💡 Sponsor Message: This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK – the UK’s number one carers card offering discounts, support, and community connections for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Whether you are a paid or unpaid caregiver, Carers Card UK provides valuable benefits such as: Discounts on gym memberships, days out, electrical goods, clothing, and more. Access to a wellbeing hub, Carers Circle tool, and a supportive community through their app. An ID card that you can carry with pride. Let others know you care while taking a little care of yourself. Visit Carers Card UK to learn more and order your card today! 📝 Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🌟 Understanding PDA: What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and why is it so often misunderstood? The difference between PDA and other autism profiles. Why the term "pathological" is important for understanding the profound impact of PDA on daily life. 🤯 Living with PDA – Julia’s Story: Navigating school with PDA: Feeling “different” and being labeled as “naughty.” The challenge of self-imposed demands and why even enjoyable activities can feel overwhelming. How Julia's life changed once she found acceptance and understanding. 🛠️ Strategies for Supporting Those with PDA: How to balance autonomy with support without creating pressure. Why it’s crucial to build trusted relationships to reduce stress and encourage collaboration. Understanding the "Demand Dial" analogy: How to synchronize external demands with individual capacity. 💡 Breaking Down Misconceptions: Why PDA is not about being lazy or deliberately oppositional. The impact of expectations on anxiety and avoidance. How support systems can be built to respect autonomy while fostering positive engagement. 💬 Key Takeaways: ✅ Autonomy is Key: Offering choice and flexibility helps reduce anxiety and resistance.✅ Normalize the Experience: Understand that PDA is not a choice—it’s a neurological reality.✅ Collaborative Approach: Building relationships based on trust and partnership rather than coercion.✅ Listen and Learn: Every person with PDA is unique, and understanding their individual needs is essential.✅ Reflect on Practice: Shifting from a "fix it" mindset to a supportive, empathetic approach makes a huge difference. 📚 Guest Spotlight: Julia Daunt - PDA advocate, public speaker, and co-author of Being Julia. Julia’s lived experience sheds light on the everyday challenges of PDA and how to thrive despite them.Ruth Fidler - Education consultant with decades of experience specializing in autism, PDA, and emotional well-being. Co-author of Being Julia and passionate advocate for person-centered support. ⏳ Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction and Sponsor Message [02:19] - Julia’s Journey: Living with PDA and Misunderstood Behaviors [12:15] - Breaking Down PDA: Myths and Realities [21:30] - Strategies That Work: Building Trust and Offering Autonomy [30:45] - Managing Internal Meltdowns and Self-Imposed Demands [38:10] - The Role of Relationships in Supporting PDA [47:20] - The Power of Language: Why "Pathological" Matters [56:30] - Final Takeaways and How to Support Someone with PDA 📖 Further Resources: Being Julia - Get your copy to learn more about Julia’s journey and practical strategi

    1h 1m
  5. MAR 28

    Should We Praise Children? The Answer for All Parents, Teachers and Carers

    In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker explores the hidden complexities of praise. While we often use praise to encourage positive behavior—whether in children, adults, or those we support in care—it can sometimes have unintended consequences. Could the way we praise actually increase anxiety, foster dependency on external validation, or even reinforce behaviors we aim to reduce? Andy breaks down:✅ When praise works—and when it doesn’t✅ The difference between intrinsic & extrinsic motivation✅ Why overpraising can backfire✅ The best way to use praise to build confidence & autonomy 🌟 Sponsor: Carers Card UK This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK’s leading discount and recognition card for unpaid carers. Carers deserve better, and this initiative provides:💳 An ID card for recognition and emergency support💰 Discounts on everyday essentials—from gym memberships to clothing & electronics📲 A well-being hub & community support For less than the price of a box of chocolates a year, you can access thousands of pounds worth of discounts. 🎟 Get yours today at CarersCardUK.com using our exclusive Able to Care promo code! Key Takeaways from This Episode 🔹 Not All Praise Is Equal – Empty praise or focusing on outcomes instead of effort can create pressure and anxiety. 🔹 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation – Encouraging internal motivation leads to long-term positive behavior, while excessive external praise can diminish self-motivation. 🔹 Overpraising Can Reduce Confidence – Saying “You’re so smart” may discourage a child from taking risks due to fear of failure. 🔹 Feedback Beats Flattery – Instead of “Good job!” try “I love how you kept trying even when it was hard.” 🔹 Encourage Autonomy – Ask questions that help individuals reflect on their own progress, rather than always seeking validation from others. 📌 Key Timestamps ⏳ [00:00] – Introduction: The surprising impact of praise⏳ [02:21] – Why praise isn’t always helpful⏳ [04:46] – The science behind motivation & praise⏳ [06:59] – How praise can unintentionally create pressure⏳ [08:06] – Study on rewards & motivation: Why rewards can kill enjoyment⏳ [10:45] – Growth mindset & process-focused praise⏳ [14:12] – The hidden dangers of overpraising⏳ [17:35] – Encouraging autonomy instead of dependence on external praise⏳ [21:01] – The best ways to praise effectively 📩 Connect With Us on Social Media 🎧 Follow Able to Care Podcast for more insightful episodes:📲 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast📲 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining📲 TikTok: @AbleToCare 📩 Subscribe to our newsletter for expert insights, upcoming episodes & free resources: AbleHub.uk 📚 Want to Learn More About Behavior & Motivation? Check out Andy Baker’s book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviors That Challenge ✅ Learn the 6-stage Target Model for behavior support✅ Develop confidence & resilience in managing challenging behaviors✅ Understand the psychology behind motivation & praise✅ Support children, caregivers, educators & professionals in behavior management 📖 Order today from online bookstores worldwide! Find the link in the description. 🔔 Enjoyed This Episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with parents, teachers, or carers who could benefit!

    25 min
  6. MAR 25

    Trauma-Informed or Just a Trend? How to Create Real Change in Classrooms & Care Settings

    In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker is joined by Dr. Karen Treisman, MBE, an award-winning clinical psychologist, author, and internationally recognized trauma specialist. Karen's work has revolutionized how trauma is understood and supported in caregiving, education, and organizational culture. From classrooms to care systems, trauma-informed practice is often discussed—but is it truly embedded, or just another tick-box exercise? Together, Andy and Karen explore what being truly trauma-informed means and how organizations, teachers, carers, and families can move beyond the buzzwords to create real, lasting change.   🌟 Sponsor: Carers Card UK This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK’s leading discount and recognition card for unpaid carers. Carers deserve better, and this initiative provides:💳 An ID card for recognition and emergency support💰 Discounts on everyday essentials—from gym memberships to clothing & electronics📲 A well-being hub & community support For less than the price of a box of chocolates a year, you can access thousands of pounds worth of discounts. 🎟 Get yours today at CarersCardUK.com using our exclusive Able to Care promo code!   Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🧠 What Does Trauma-Informed Really Mean? – Understanding the core principles beyond the label.🏫 From Classrooms to Care Homes – How trauma-informed practice impacts organizations, leadership, and frontline workers.⚖ The Biggest Myths About Trauma-Informed Practice – Is it just about being “soft” or letting bad behavior slide?🔄 The Power of Relationships in Healing Trauma – Why connection is the key to real change.💡 Practical Steps for Embedding a Trauma-Informed Culture – Small changes that can transform staff well-being and the experiences of those in care. Key Takeaways: ✅ Trauma-informed is not just a training—it’s a culture shift.✅ It’s not about excusing behavior, but understanding and responding effectively.✅ Burnout is real—how organizations support staff well-being matters.✅ Micro-moments of human connection make a huge difference.✅ A truly trauma-informed approach benefits everyone, from children in care to the elderly in nursing homes. Guest Spotlight: Dr. Karen Treisman, MBE Dr. Treisman is the author of bestselling books including The Therapeutic Treasure Box and Creating Trauma-Informed Organisations. Her innovative resources and training have supported thousands of professionals in fostering trauma-aware environments. 📚 Want to Learn More?Check out Karen’s books, training, and resources ➡️ [Link in Show Notes] Timestamps: ⏳ [00:00] – Introduction to Dr. Karen Treisman and today’s topic⏳ [02:13] – What does being trauma-informed actually mean?⏳ [06:20] – Why trauma-informed practice must go beyond individuals to organizations⏳ [10:50] – The biggest misconceptions and resistance to trauma-informed approaches⏳ [19:09] – How trauma-informed practice is expanding (or lacking) across different sectors⏳ [27:33] – Are we more disconnected than ever? The impact of modern society on relationships⏳ [38:00] – Self-care for carers and staff: How organizations can genuinely support their teams⏳ [48:00] – Dr. Treisman’s top three favorite trauma-informed activities and exercises⏳ [57:44] – Final takeaways and how to embed trauma-informed thinking in daily life Connect with Us! 📲 Follow the Able to Care Podcast for More:🔗 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast🔗 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining🔗 TikTok: @AbleToCare 📩 Subscribe for Exclusive Content & Resources: [AbleHub.uk] Looking to Create a Trauma-Informed Culture in Your Organization? Able Training provides specialist training for care and education professionals on trauma-informed practice, behavior support, and well-being. 📞 Get in touch today to discuss your needs: [AbleTraining.co.uk] 📖 Check out Andy Baker’s Book!Targeting the Positive: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Supporting Challenging Behaviors – Now Available Worldwide! 🎧 If yo

    1h 6m
  7. MAR 21

    How to Support Neurodivergent & Trauma-Affected Individuals for Parents, Teachers and Carers

    Think about the last time you saw a behavior that stood out to you.Maybe a child flapping their hands, someone repeating a phrase, or a person refusing to follow an instruction. Did you immediately see that behavior as a problem to be fixed? For years, behaviorist models have focused on modifying behaviors—rewarding the “good” and discouraging the “bad.” But what if some of the behaviors we try to change are actually essential coping strategies? In this episode, host Andy Baker explores the difference between adaptive and maladaptive behaviors, why traditional approaches to behavior management can do more harm than good, and how we can shift toward a neurodiverse-affirming, person-centered approach that truly supports those we care for. 🎧 Sponsor: Carers Card UK – Support, Recognition & Rewards This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK’s #1 discount card for unpaid carers. Started by two best friends who recognized that carers deserve better, Carers Card UK provides:✅ A recognized ID card for access to discounts & emergency information✅ A well-being hub and exclusive Carers Circle tool✅ Savings on gym memberships, days out, clothing, glasses, and more 💙 For less than the price of a box of chocolates a year, you can get the support you deserve.🎟️ Order yours today using our exclusive promo code at CarersCardUK.com Key Messages from This Episode: 🧠 Behavior Is Communication – Many so-called “challenging” behaviors are actually adaptive strategies for coping, self-regulating, or communicating unmet needs. 💬 Traditional Behaviorist Approaches Can Be Harmful – Punishing or suppressing behaviors without understanding their function can lead to anxiety, distress, and learned helplessness. ⚖ Compliance Isn’t the Goal—Connection Is – Instead of forcing compliance, we should be supporting autonomy, self-regulation, and emotional well-being. 🌍 We All Have Biases – Some behaviors we try to “correct” (like avoiding eye contact or stimming) aren’t actually harmful—they just don’t fit societal norms. 🔍 Focus on Functional Behavior – Ask “What need is this behavior fulfilling?” instead of “How do I stop it?”. 📌 Key Timestamps: 📌 [00:00] – Introduction: Why our approach to behavior needs to change📌 [00:20] – Understanding adaptive vs. maladaptive behavior📌 [00:52] – Sponsor: Carers Card UK – Support & recognition for carers📌 [02:13] – Why traditional behavior management is outdated📌 [03:09] – The problem with focusing on behavior modification📌 [06:22] – Recognizing functional behavior vs. challenging behavior📌 [10:00] – Why suppression of behaviors can do more harm than good📌 [12:08] – Supporting autonomy and self-regulation over compliance📌 [16:49] – Rethinking social norms: What is truly harmful vs. just different?📌 [17:09] – Final reflections: Understanding before correcting 📲 Connect With Us on Social Media: 🎧 Follow the Able to Care Podcast for more insightful episodes:📲 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast📲 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining📲 TikTok: @AbleToCare 📩 Subscribe to our newsletter for resources, expert insights, and upcoming episodes: AbleHub.uk 🎓 Looking for Training in Behavior Support & Neurodiversity? Able Training offers expert-led courses on behavior management, de-escalation, and trauma-informed care for professionals, carers, and educators. 📞 Contact us today: AbleTraining.co.uk🚀 Book your course now and enhance your understanding of behavior!

    20 min
  8. MAR 18

    Understanding Childhood Trauma:What Every Parent, Teacher & Carer Needs to Know

    How does childhood trauma shape our adult lives?How can therapy help us navigate past wounds and reclaim our future? In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker is joined by Wendy Castellino, a psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness. Wendy has dedicated her career to helping individuals heal from trauma, build emotional resilience, and transform their lives. Together, Andy and Wendy explore the impact of childhood trauma, how it manifests in everyday life, and how therapy can provide lasting change. If you’ve ever struggled with past experiences, anxiety, or emotional distress, or you support others dealing with trauma, this episode will provide insights, strategies, and hope. 🎧 Sponsor: Carers Card UK – Support, Recognition & Rewards This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK’s #1 discount card for unpaid carers. ✅ A recognized ID card for access to discounts & emergency information✅ A well-being hub and Carers Circle tool✅ Savings on gym memberships, days out, clothing, glasses, and more 💙 For less than the price of a box of chocolates a year, you can get the support you deserve.🎟️ Order yours today using our exclusive promo code at CarersCardUK.com Key Messages from This Episode: 🧠 Trauma Can Manifest in Unexpected Ways – Childhood trauma can influence mental health, relationships, self-worth, and even physical health well into adulthood. 💬 Therapy Is for Growth, Not Just Crisis – Many people think therapy is only for those in crisis, but it can be a tool for self-discovery, resilience, and emotional strength. ⚖ EMDR and CBT Are Powerful Tools for Healing – Wendy explains how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) work and why they are effective in treating trauma and PTSD. 🌍 The Mind-Body Connection in Trauma – Trauma is not just mental; it lives in the body. Chronic stress can lead to autoimmune diseases, anxiety, and physical distress. 🔍 Healing Is a Journey, Not a Quick Fix – Therapy is a process that requires commitment, small steps, and self-compassion. 💡 Practical Tips for Managing Stress and Anxiety – Wendy shares mindfulness exercises and self-care strategies that anyone can integrate into daily life. 📌 Key Timestamps: 📌 [00:00] – Introduction: How childhood trauma shapes adulthood📌 [00:52] – Sponsor: Carers Card UK – Supporting unpaid carers📌 [03:09] – How Wendy’s journey into therapy began📌 [06:54] – What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?📌 [10:26] – Trauma-focused CBT and how it helps process past experiences📌 [16:39] – What is trauma? How do we define it?📌 [24:32] – The mind-body connection: Why trauma affects physical health📌 [30:32] – Understanding EMDR therapy and how it helps reprocess trauma📌 [37:46] – Therapy options: How to find the right therapist for you📌 [49:24] – The importance of self-care for caregivers and professionals📌 [56:41] – Therapy vs. medication: Finding the right balance📌 [01:02:31] – Wendy’s top mindfulness techniques for everyday life📌 [01:07:28] – How to connect with Wendy for therapy and resources 📲 Connect With Us on Social Media: 🎧 Follow the Able to Care Podcast for more insightful episodes:📲 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast📲 LinkedIn: @AbleTraining📲 TikTok: @AbleToCare 📩 Subscribe to our newsletter for resources, expert insights, and upcoming episodes: AbleHub.uk 🎓 Looking for Trauma-Informed Training? Able Training provides expert-led courses on trauma-informed care, behavior management, de-escalation, and mental health awareness for professionals, carers, and educators. 📞 Contact us today: AbleTraining.co.uk🚀 Book your course now and enhance your understanding of trauma and mental health!

    1h 12m

    About

    Join host Andy Baker (author, speaker and educator) for Able Training’s care-focused podcast Able to Care. For paid and unpaid caregivers, teachers and parents to better understand themselves and those they support. With twice-weekly episodes covering understanding people, promoting self-care and resilience, signposting support and services, strategies to reduce stress and distress, promoting good practice and ensuring positive outcomes for all. Includes special guest experts, caregivers and those with lived experience.

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