# Breaking Barriers: The Power of Therapy and ResilienceIn this episode, we dive deep into mental health, resilience, and breaking down the stigmas around seeking help. Hayley Doherty, a passionate psychotherapist, shares her personal journey, professional insights, and practical tools to navigate life's tough moments and build mental resilience. If you're curious about therapy or battling your inner critic, this one's for you.In this episode:Hayley's personal story of discovering boundaries and changing her life through therapyThe difference between mental strength and emotional resilienceHow resilience is developed from childhood into adulthood through challengesThe impact social media has on mental health, both positive and negativePractical tips: grounding techniques, self-compassion, and challenging negative thoughtsWhat to expect during your first therapy session and how to find the right therapistReframing struggles as opportunities for growth with the "Goldilocks framework"The importance of ongoing maintenance and community supportBreaking the stigma: therapy as a tool, not a lifetime obligation, and accessible mental health resources(00:00) - Why boundaries were invisible to Hayley before her therapy journey(02:00) - The significance of open conversations about mental health(05:02) - The evolution of social media’s role in mental health awareness(07:45) - Defining mental strength vs. emotional resilience(10:35) - Hayley's motivation to become a therapist after years of helping friends(12:04) - Personal growth through therapy: boundaries, self-awareness, and relationships(15:20) - The reality of recovery: patience, self-compassion, and small steps(17:12) - Is struggle necessary for growth? Reframing challenges with the "Goldilocks" model(19:20) - Small actionable steps when overwhelmed: grounding, gratitude, and self-talk(22:05) - Challenging the inner critic and managing perfectionism and imposter syndrome(25:29) - Practical tools for calming anxiety and negative thoughts in daily life(29:43) - The double-edged sword of social media: authenticity, community, and comparison(36:51) - How to choose the right therapist and what to expect from your first session(40:36) - Creating safety in therapy: rapport, confidentiality, and trust(43:38) - Repetition and patience: building new habits for mental resilience(49:14) - The power of active listening and how therapy helps us offload(53:46) - The importance of psychoeducation and de-stigmatizing mental health treatment(56:47) - The role of physical activity and community (like Jiu Jitsu) in mental wellbeing(60:07) - Final words: reach out, support each other, and prioritize your mental healthTherapy with HayleyDip N SIP - Bundoran Coffee & BakeryIrish Association for Counselling and PsychotherapyBACP - British Association for Counselling & PsychotherapyPieta House - Free Mental Health SupportTurn to Me - Free Online SupportInstagramFacebookTimestamps:Resources & Links:Connect with Hayley:Final note:If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember: you are not alone. Reach out to a friend, drop a message, or call a helpline. Your mental health is just as vital as your physical health—prioritize it. Break the stigma, embrace therapy, and start your resilience journey today.

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