The Weekend University

Dr. Sherif Darwish Abdalla is a consultant psychiatrist and addiction therapist. He is the Co-Founder of Recovery Egypt, one of the leading treatment and rehabilitation centres in North Africa. He has publications in many international Journals, including the European Journal of Psychiatry. In this conversation, we explore: — Dr Darwish’s radical approach to recovery and how it goes against many of the norms of mainstream psychiatry — How Dr Darwish and his colleague built their recovery centre from scratch and his advice to others who are interested in undertaking similar projects — Why community and connection need to be at the heart of a holistic recovery plan And more. Learn more about Recovery Egypt by going to: https://recoveryegypt.com. --- Dr. Sherif Darwish Abdalla is a consultant psychiatrist and addiction therapist from Egypt. His main area of focus in both work and research is addiction rehabilitation. He is a co-founder of the Recovery Centers for Addiction and Recovery, a prominent treatment and rehabilitation chain in Egypt. Dr. Darwish has published in many international journals, including the European Journal of Psychiatry. He will discuss the motivational challenges that therapists commonly face with their patients, and strategies for early identification and effective management. --- 3 Books Dr Darwish Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Inside Rehab: The Surprising Truth About Addiction Treatment - and How to Get Help That Works - Anne M Fletcher - https://amzn.to/45A1Xbg — Addictive Thinking: Understanding Self-Deception - Abraham J Twerski - https://amzn.to/3M5dZT0 — Motivational Interviewing, Fourth Edition: Helping People Change and Grow - William R Miller - https://amzn.to/45vSodv

Richard Lang, a philosopher and leading proponent of the Headless Way, shares insights from over five decades of self-inquiry. He discusses the revolutionary idea that you cannot see your own head, revealing deeper truths about consciousness and identity. Lang connects this perspective to religious teachings, explaining how it fosters belonging and joy. He also explores the nature of time and death, offering a transformative outlook that reduces existential fear. Daily practices are suggested to cultivate awareness of our true nature.

Dr. Judith Joseph, a board-certified psychiatrist and author, dives into the nuances of high-functioning depression and its unrecognized prevalence. She discusses the connections between trauma, overworking, and hidden depression. With her unique Five V's framework—validate, vent, values, vitals, and vision—she empowers listeners to reclaim joy as a human right. Dr. Judith also explores the impact of technology on mental health and emphasizes the importance of cultivating internal joy rather than relying on external happiness.

Dr. Louis Cozolino, a distinguished clinical psychologist and author, dives deep into the essence of psychotherapy. He reflects on his transformative training under Carl Rogers and highlights key factors common to all effective therapies. Cozolino introduces the concept of the 'vital half second,' explaining its role in shaping our experiences. He discusses how early attachment influences adult relationships and the nuances of core shame. Throughout, he advocates for therapists as applied neuroscientists, emphasizing the need for foundational knowledge over mere techniques.

In this captivating discussion, cognitive scientist Donald Hoffman and psychiatrist Iain McGilchrist delve deep into the essence of consciousness. They discuss growing evidence suggesting consciousness may be fundamental and debate whether matter emerges from it. Hoffman introduces complex structures beyond spacetime, while McGilchrist highlights the necessity of time and differentiation. Both guests emphasize the importance of silence and intuition in scientific discovery, ultimately reconciling their perspectives on the limits of our understanding.

In this engaging discussion, Federico Faggin, renowned physicist and inventor of the microprocessor, shares insights from his groundbreaking exploration of consciousness. He argues that quantum fields possess consciousness and free will, and emphasizes the importance of meaning over mere information in understanding reality. Faggin's unique video-game analogy clarifies the dynamic between body, mind, and spirit. He envisions a future rooted in cooperation and love, proposing that our embodied existence serves a greater purpose in the quest for self-knowledge.

Join Professor Mick Cooper, a renowned Counselling Psychology expert, as he delves into the crucial concept of relational depth in psychotherapy. He discusses the importance of embodying genuine connection and highlights barriers that can obstruct it. Discover insights on Martin Buber’s I-Thou theory, the significant role of vulnerability in therapy, and how quality relationships can predict therapy outcomes. Mick also shares practical advice for therapists on fostering connection and explains how relational depth can even thrive in online settings.

In this engaging conversation, Richard Schwartz, the founder of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, and Cece Sykes, an IFS Senior Trainer, delve into the intricacies of addiction from an IFS perspective. They discuss how addiction is rooted in parts of the self affected by trauma, exploring concepts like managers, firefighters, and exiles. The duo emphasizes the importance of curiosity as a gateway to healing and shares best practices for therapists. Their insights highlight the transformative power of self-compassion in recovery.

Dr. Bonnie Badenoch, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of Nurturing the Heart with the Brain in Mind, delves into fascinating insights on attachment and healing. She discusses how we stay protected until we feel safe to heal and the critical role of our inner community. Bonnie explores how our early caregiving shapes our perception of God and our relationships. Her approach, emphasizing ‘radical inclusiveness,’ reveals how all parts of ourselves, even the painful ones, can guide us toward deeper healing and understanding.

Dr. Donna Thomas, a social scientist specializing in children's consciousness, shares her profound journey after a near-death experience at 15. She reveals how children can access altered states naturally, contrasting it with adults who use tools like meditation. The discussion highlights common elements of children's near-death experiences, including feelings of 'coming home,' and explores the startling evidence of past-life memories linking birthmarks to previous wounds. Dr. Thomas advocates for normalizing these experiences, urging adults to listen and support rather than pathologize.