Tune in to the second episode in this two-part series as Sabin Fernbacher and Louise Newman build on their previous conversation and explore in more depth, the complex inter-relationship between family violence and mental health; and trauma and mental health. 

Join them as they identify the potential significant social, developmental and mental health costs on adults, families, children and, in fact, communities that experience trauma. Hear as they describe diagnosis as a form of ‘shorthand’ and how diagnosis, in and of itself, doesn’t describe how the experience of trauma, poor attachment, repetition of dysfunctional maladaptive relationships, complex trauma and/or relational trauma has impacted.

From their extensive clinical experience working with women and children who have suffered from the persistent effects of family violence, Sabin and Louise explore the importance of sensitive enquiry about family violence; how compassionate questions mitigate blaming and labelling, shifting the focus away from ‘what is wrong with this person?’ to ‘what happened to them?’; providing a much richer perspective. 

They provide practical tips and strategies about when to ask and how to craft questions which will elicit responses which actually help clinicians to understand.

This episode is a must-listen for mental health professionals looking to better understand the impact of family violence on mental health.

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