
Gwen Adshead
Forensic psychiatrist and psychotherapist with three decades of clinical experience, author of The Devil You Know and Unspeakable, and former BBC Reith Lectures contributor.
Top 5 podcasts with Gwen Adshead
Ranked by the Snipd community

34 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 58min
Is Violence Normal?
Dr. Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist with nearly 40 years at renowned institutions like Broadmoor, investigates the complex nature of violence. She ponder whether violence is a natural human trait and explores the deep-rooted links between trauma and aggressive behavior. The discussion delves into the psychological factors that drive individuals to violence and examines the role of restorative justice in healing both victims and offenders. Insights from her therapeutic experiences provide a compassionate perspective on this often misunderstood issue.

26 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 58min
Can we change violent minds?
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist, challenges conventional views on violent offenders. She raises crucial questions about the UK's punitive approach versus Norway's rehabilitative model. Dr. Adshead discusses the transformative potential of therapeutic interventions, the role of childhood trauma, and societal attitudes towards violent crime. She emphasizes the need for compassion and community involvement in rehabilitation, advocating for a shift away from revenge-driven policies. A thought-provoking look at justice and healing.

13 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 58min
Aren't they all evil?
Gwen Adshead, a seasoned forensic psychiatrist and psychotherapist with nearly 40 years of experience, tackles the complex nature of evil in her talk. She distinguishes between evil and mental illness, suggesting that the capacity for both exists within all of us. Adshead emphasizes the importance of emotional education in preventing violence and discusses the societal implications of labeling individuals as 'evil.' By exploring the roots of rage and the role of faith in rehabilitation, she advocates for compassion and a deeper understanding of violent behavior.

10 snips
Mar 23, 2026 • 39min
How To Overcome Trauma, With Psychotherapist Dr Gwen Adshead (Part One)
Dr Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist and psychotherapist with three decades’ clinical experience and author of The Devil You Know and Unspeakable, joins the conversation. She explores trauma as an identity change. She discusses speechlessness after trauma, the healing role of sustained therapeutic space, and powerful case stories ranging from refugees to frontline workers.

7 snips
Mar 25, 2026 • 34min
How To Overcome Trauma, With Psychotherapist Dr Gwen Adshead (Part Two)
Dr Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist and psychotherapist with three decades of clinical experience and author of Unspeakable, speaks about trauma, identity and recovery. She explores how traumatic events reshape identity. She discusses speaking and writing as tools for healing. She outlines cautious, varied therapeutic approaches and the role of language in enabling post-traumatic growth.


