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They're not broken—they’ve adapted

Jun 23, 2025
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Young people who've experienced trauma aren't broken—they've adapted.

Their responses often make sense within the context of their lives.

When we work holistically with young people, seeing their responses as hidden talents, we can begin to support profound changes.

Traditional therapy models can overlook the whole person and their capacity to grow. For example, they might focus on attachment but overlook the use of individual strengths. They might focus on a critical incident but overlook the skill of using trial and error.  

There is a holistic way

We can honour the adaptive wisdom in young people while gently expanding their possibilities.

Therapy can heal when it helps them see they are already more than their past.

This is the heart of my new course...

Trauma Informed Therapy For Youth

 

I've just opened registration for my self-paced course that gives a practical understanding of the whole person, and many ideas to use in therapy. 

Sign Up Now! 

 

You'll discover how to:

  • See responses as adaptive responses rather than pathology

  • Work with the whole person across self-concept and relational contexts

  • Build psychological flexibility that can serve as a protective factor 

 

If you're ready to expand your understanding of trauma, I invite you to explore what this course has to offer.

The young people in your care deserve practitioners who see their strength as well as their struggles.

 

With deep respect for the knowledge and heart you put into your work, 

 

Dr. Louise Hayes

 

Training, Courses & Mentorship

NEW - Trauma-Informed Therapy for Young People

Join the waitlist for Therapist Adventures 2026 

Express Interest in 1:1 Supervision & Consultation

 

Coming Soon

  • Engagement, Assessment & Planning with Young People Course
  • Supporting Young People Through Climate Stress Webinar

 

Mindful Adventures November 2025

 

We're going to the mountains for a Mindful Adventure for Reflective Practice in November 2025.

This is what a recent reviewer said about her experience: 

 
"I recommend this trip to all of my friends and any other health professional.  I did the trip this May with my 21-year-old daughter (also a nurse), and it was one of the most transformative life experiences I have had.  It not only deepened my relationship and bond with my daughter, it provided a constant source of wonder - how beautiful is this place, how kind and generous are these people, how amazing is the food, how bloody high are these mountains, and how awesome am I - I MADE IT!!!!
 
I really cannot imagine doing this trip with anyone but Louise, Mingma and their gracious (and graceful and strong) support crew.  I felt safe, cared for, and seen - all my needs were noticed and met. 
 
Louise provided us with a solid and proven framework for reflecting each day that supported us to quietly deepen our own inner journey and development.  I am still enjoying the benefits even 4 weeks after coming home. 
 
I plan to go again as soon as I can." - Elise, CEO and Clinical Manager

 

If you'd like to join please email me at [email protected]

Join Mindful Adentures November 2025 

 

 

 

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Life Made Flexible

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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