Trauma comes in many forms which is why many people don’t realize they have it. But the fact is, we all face trauma whether it’s big or small. In this episode, I was joined by Michael Gay, a private practice therapist who specializes in depression, trauma, PTSD, and grief for families and groups. We talk about his work as a therapist including the practices of wilderness therapy and equine therapy. Michael shares about the power of connection and relationship with others. He gives insight into how you can begin to work through your trauma and how to incorporate ritual into your life About Michael: Michael is a therapist in private practice in Boulder, Colorado. He earned his M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Naropa University with a focus in Transpersonal Psychology. Michael has worked in the field of counseling for the last 14 years as a guide, therapist, and trainer. He was a Wilderness Therapy guide for 6 years, leading and facilitating deep transformational work with teens, adults, and families in the mountains and high desert. He has also worked extensively in the field of addiction and recovery. He specializes in work with depression, groups, trauma, PTSD, grief, and families. He is currently involved with a rapidly growing organization called Sacred Sons, bringing men together for transformational experiences, brotherhood, healing, and empowerment. In addition to his M.A., Michael completed a 3 year training at the Gestalt Institute of the Rockies, and continues to train at the Gestalt Equine Institute. Connect with Michael: Website | www.michaelgaycounseling.com Instagram | @lightningtree_mg What You’ll Hear: 4:30 What Michael does as a therapist 5:43 Why you can’t think your way through trauma 8:05 The full range that trauma carries 12:36 What scares Michael and what he finds inspiring about this current moment 17:11 Why you need to use relationship as the path to healing 19:06 How he directs clients to look at relationship 20:40 What wilderness therapy is and how it changes people relationally 26:07 How the world fuels people’s addictions 27:34 How men can start to work with their trauma 30:28 What Michael has noticed about men and friendships 33:07 Why he’s passionate about equine therapy 37:55 How to incorporate ritual into your life 40:36 A ritual that Michael practices Links: A Branch from the Lightning Tree: Ecstatic Myth and the Grace of Wildness If you look at the civilized work and think, “no thank you,” then you should subscribe to our podcast so you don’t miss a single episode! Also, join the uncivilized community and connect with me on my website, Facebook or Instagram so you can join in on our live recordings, ask questions to guests and more.

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