Transpersonal Therapy—The Stories We Carry | 058

Pete Coles, transpersonal counselor and somatic practitioner, shares how listening in an embodied way to grief, anxiety, and other overwhelming emotions softens self-judgment and shame.   

He tells us about his journey, from working musician to therapist for adolescents dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. Seven years in this work led to burnout.  

A 600-km trek through the Tasmanian wilderness brought him to a deeper, more holistic relationship with healing. Pete transitioned into working with adults, integrating somatics to enhance trust, body listening, and self awareness.  

We discuss the significance of family narratives and inherited personality traits. Understanding those, we can explore our internal landscapes with curiosity and compassion, recognize destructive patterns, and move to deeper understanding of ourselves and others. Pete offers insights into relationship dynamics, and how conflict is often a collision with events in the past.  

He says: Slow down and listen to your body. Honor the discomfort that arises—not as a problem, but as a signal that there’s something to take care of.  

This conversation will move you beyond words.  

 

TESS’S TAKEAWAYS: 

• Rather than trying to solve reality in your mind, listen and care for your body.  
• Somatic practices expand how we meet ourselves and others.  
• Reframing problems as puzzles shifts our responses to disruptions.  
• Give anxiety, sadness, and other overwhelming emotions seats at the table. 
• Grief is a meticulous and sacred journey that heals and builds resilience.  
• Observing yourself with curiosity expands inner dialogue and choices. 
• In taking responsibility for our inner stories, we can move from conflict to resolution.   
• Knowing your internal myth leads to greater compassion for yourself.  

 

ABOUT PETE COLES 

A transpersonal psychotherapist with extensive experience in drug and alcohol addiction, Pete has a nuanced understanding of mental health, compulsive behavior, and trauma.  

In his therapeutic approach, he integrates somatic awareness, helping people connect with their bodies and explore internal myths and formative stories that shape perceptions and behaviors.  Pete also supports clients in the safe use of psychoactive plants in their therapy.  

Specializing in relationship dynamics, Pete works with couples to uncover how personal narratives intersect, guiding them toward greater clarity and connection.  

As co-founder of Elk & Me Therapies and Dispensary, Pete works with a complementary team to offer a holistic and integrative approach to mental health and wellbeing. 

 

CONNECT WITH PETE 

Website: https://elkandme.com.au/practitioners/pete-coles/ 

Website: https://www.emotionalintellect.com.au/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkandme/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkMeTherapiesDispensary/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-coles-125879a2/ 

MEET TESS MASTERS:   

Tess Masters is an actor, presenter, health