Dr. Christopher Willard is a clinical psychologist, Harvard Medical School faculty member, and internationally renowned mindfulness educator. In this episode, we explore how we can transform pain into resilience, drawing from his latest book, How We Grow Through What We Go Through.
Blending neuroscience, lived experience, and compassion-based practices, Chris shares how post-traumatic growth is not only possible but deeply human. He speaks candidly about addiction, grief, and the healing journey, while offering tangible tools to tend and befriend our inner worlds.
Episode Highlights:
- What post-traumatic growth is—and how it differs from post-traumatic stress
- The story behind writing his book during his mother’s final days
- Why self-compassion accelerates healing and recovery
- The “language of addiction” and how it hijacks our nervous system
- How to regulate emotions through posture, breath, and embodiment
- The neurobiology of physical touch and self-soothing practices
- Why community, humility, and hope are essential for long-term change
- The role of mindfulness in healing trauma and transforming relationships
- Practical tools for moving through crisis with courage and care
Connect with Dr. Christopher Willard:
📖 Book: How We Grow Through What We Go Through
📲 Instagram: @drchriswillard
🌐 Website: www.drchristopherwillard.com
Stay Connected:
🌿 Follow the show: @elaineclark_
📩 Email: info@elaineclark.ca
🎧 Listen + Subscribe to Unravel with Elaine Clark on Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio & Spotify
💫 Visit www.elaineclark.ca for more resources and offerings
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