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Take Up Space: A Live Workshop with Rikke Kjelgaard and Louise Hayes

Jul 27, 2026
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A few years ago, I had a surprise revelation about how I moved through the world. I was in Spain, at the ACBS World Conference, sitting in on a panel about women's careers organised by Dr Emily Sandoz.

Emily asked the women a simple question: What do you do when you have a new idea?

My answer landed on me like a bucket of ice water. As I thought back across my work, research, and writing, I realised that every time I had a new idea, I had checked it with a male colleague to see if it was valid.

I'd been doing this for decades. Every damn time. Following some unknown rule that I needed male approval before I could trust my own thinking.

Why? Where had it come from?

I was raised that way, of course! In a culture that taught me men hold the power and have the big ideas, and if I wanted to step into that space, I'd better ask permission first. 

It sounds absurd to suddenly realise I'd spent a lifetime checking myself, but that's exactly what made the realisation hit so hard. 

Just one question opened my eyes. 

From that moment in Spain, I've given myself permission to take up space, to act on my own ideas without seeking approval first. 

I love these inflection points.

Now, I invite you to step into your own. To become aware of how you've learned to move through the world and to start choosing the space you actually deserve. 

You didn't work for this career to make yourself smaller. 

Choose your creativity. Choose your direction. Choose your own voice.

Join me and my dear friend Rikke Kjelgaard across two workshop sessions for women in the helping professions.  Rikke is a clinical psychologist, author, podcaster, trainer and a rock star in women's leadership. 

 

Stop holding yourself back

 Find your voice

 Build deeper relationships

Show up with more courage, authenticity, and leadership

 

 

* Live online * 

* September 11 and 25 * 8:00am CEST, 16:00 AEST *

* Recording available *

* 4 hours of CPD delivered by clinical psychologists *

 

 

 Join the training

 

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Welcome to a space where psychology meets compassion and growth. Each month, I'll share practical wisdom drawn from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help you navigate life's challenges with greater psychological flexibility and purpose. What you'll receive: Evidence-based strategies to build resilience and foster wellbeing Thoughtful reflections on mindfulness and present-moment awareness Practical tools to help you connect with your values and create a rich, meaningful life Updates on workshops, speaking events, and new resources Whether you're a mental health professional, a parent supporting a young person, or someone on your own journey of growth, this newsletter offers a gentle guide to living fully with both the joy and the struggle that life brings. Together, we'll explore how to create space for difficult thoughts and feelings while moving toward what matters most to you.
© 2026 Dr Louise Hayes

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