My life has been a rollercoaster through tragedy and triumphs, but the tragic elements have been the most valuable. Working through the collateral damage of tragedy, I have moved from a state of chronic insecurity and low self-esteem to a time in my life where I feel happy, content, comfortable in my own skin and optimistic about the future.
In 1985 I qualified as a dental surgeon and worked in general practice. I enjoyed the patient contact, particularly when people overcame initial fears and left with greater confidence as a result.
In 2005 I was widowed. The trauma was intense. I had two young children and had to take a career break. When I returned to work, I was hit by PTSD. My husband had been a dentist too and the association provided the trigger.
I would compare it to a nuclear fall-out and I had not appreciated how powerfully negative emotions can affect the body and the mind. It was completely debilitating.
A wonderful psychologist nurtured and led me through a tortuous clinical path of CBT & EMDR. I began to participate in life again, appreciating every small joy from my children’s laughter to sunshine after the rain. I was fascinated by the process, and I began to explore various disciplines myself.
