Dr. Nicole LePera: Embracing Authenticity and Challenging Traditional Therapy

In this podcast episode, Amanda de Cadenet and Dr. Nicole LePera, the Holistic Psychologist, discuss Dr. LePera's new book "How to Be the Love You Seek." They explore themes of personal growth, relationships, and therapy. Dr. LePera shares her journey of questioning traditional therapy methods and embracing holistic approaches, including somatic tools and nervous system regulation. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity in therapy, the impact of childhood experiences on self-worth, and the challenges of maintaining personal growth. They also discuss the role of technology in wellness and the backlash Dr. LePera faced for her unconventional views.

Timestamps: 

• [03:53] Dr. LePera and Amanda discuss the impact of childhood experiences on compromising in relationships and the development of conditioned selves.
• [12:38] Dr. LePera shares her personal journey, including her emotional breakdown and spiritual awakening, and the evolution of her therapeutic approach.
• [18:04] Amanda shares her experience with therapists and the importance of therapists sharing their own lived experiences for building trust and relatability.
• [20:41] Dr. LePera's decision to go public about her personal life and the importance of being authentic.
• [34:09] The importance of making mental health resources accessible, including low-cost and time-efficient practices.
• [43:54] Dr. LePera addresses the feedback she received, particularly from women of color, and the challenges of understanding differing perceptions.
• [47:09] The timing of Dr. LePera's growth during the COVID lockdown and BLM movement, leading to personal transformation and confidence.
• [56:52] The impact of personal healing on future generations through epigenetics, challenging old beliefs about genetic determinism.

Key Takeaways 

• Personal growth is ongoing and often needs therapy. Dr. LePera stresses therapy's role in healing past traumas, advocating for personalized approaches.
• Childhood experiences significantly shape self-worth. Dr. LePera explains how early events and relationships impact adult behaviors and self-perception.
• The wellness industry is criticized for its inaccessibility and privilege. Dr. LePera calls for more inclusive mental health resources and highlights technology's role in bridging gaps, providing support to those excluded from traditional wellness practices.

Resources: 

Instagram - @the.holistic.psychologist

LinkedIn - Dr. Nicole LePera  

Book - How To Be The Love You Seek

About this podcast:

The Conversation with Amanda de Cadenet is a groundbreaking series of weekly interviews featuring candid conversations with impactful thought leaders. Host, Amanda de Cadenet provides a platform for raw and honest discussions on a wide variety of topics from porn to politics. Visit amandadecadenet.com to learn more and sign up for her newsletter. Follow Amanda on Instagram @amandadecadenet. Follow Amanda on Substack at amandadecadenet.substack.com

Biography:

Dr. Nicole LePera was trained in clinical psychology at Cornell University and The New School for Social Research and also studied at the Philadelphia School of Psychoanalysis. She is the New York Times bestselling author of How to Do the Work and i