Shrinked by Quint

Is AI About to Replace Your Therapist?"

This week, I commend UKCP for its bold initiative addressing AI’s rapid advancements in psychotherapy. With chatbots and avatars disrupting practices, AI is moving fast and breaking things quickly. But should it be allowed to threaten the core of psychotherapy? Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of this pressing issue.
"The real risk with AI isn't that it will destroy jobs; it's that it will redefine them faster than we can adjust." – Andrew Yang

Mind Wandering Explained: The Default Mode Network's Hidden Influence

I’m diving into a fascinating recent discovery in neuroscience: the Default Mode Network, or DMN. It's a system that reveals what our brains are doing when we’re not focused on external tasks, from daydreaming to self-reflection. Join me as we explore its impact on our minds and wellbeing.
 
“The discovery of the default mode network has transformed our understanding of the brain, showing that even at rest, it is anything but silent, orchestrating thoughts that define our identity.”
Marcus E. Raichle

What Makes a Great Therapist and Where and How to Find Them

Where do you find a good therapist? At the very time when a person is at their wits end in trying to get help with a mental health issue for themselves or a loved one, many are faced with an irritating journey of discovery to find a reputable therapist. In this episode I try to provide guidance on what makes a good therapist and where to find them. 
"A good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease." — William Osler

The Subtle Trap of Comfort and the Power of Asymmetric Living

In this episode of Shrinked by Quint, I dive into the evolution of ‘asymmetric living’ which explores how the pursuit of constant comfort can undermine our resilience. Drawing on several books (Comfort Creep, The Comfort Crisis, and Asymmetric Living), the podcast argues for the paradox - discomfort could be the key to growth and fulfilment.
“He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Power of Animation To Support Addiction

In this episode of Shrinked by Quint, I dive into one of my favourite topics: the use of animation in mental healthcare. Using addiction as a focal point, I demonstrate how animation can simplify the complex and challenging aspects of this condition. More than just simplifying, animation makes the conversation around addiction creative and relatable, helping to foster a deeper emotional connection and understanding. I also explore how the adaptability and emotional resonance of animation can enhance prevention efforts, raise treatment awareness, and build meaningful connections with patients.
“The greatest ideas are the simplest.” – William Golding

Alcohol Use Disorder Part 2: Is It Just a Drink? Identifying When Alcohol May Be a Problem for You

"First you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you"          F Scott Fitzgerald. 
I’m diving back into a topic that hits close to home for me: alcohol use disorder, or alcoholism. 
Alcohol is the most dangerous drug in the world, and many of us struggle with it. In this episode I’ll share what AUD is, how to spot it, and my personal and clinical experiences on how to treat it.

Alcohol Use Disorder Part 1: Is It Just a Drink? Identifying When Alcohol May Be a Problem for You

"First you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you"          F Scott Fitzgerald. 
Today, I’m diving into part one of a topic that hits close to home for me: alcohol use disorder, or alcoholism. 
Alcohol is the most dangerous drug in the world, and many of us struggle with it. In this episode I’ll share what AUD is, how to spot it, and my personal and clinical experiences on how to treat it.

Unlock Inner Peace: A Guided Meditation for Restorative Self-Exploration

"Your body is your home; learning to love and accept it is the first step toward peace."
This week, I'm doing something a little different in response to several requests on the website: a guided meditation. Personally, I find guided meditations incredibly grounding and a great way to reconnect with the body. They're calming, restorative, and there's plenty of evidence to show how they promote better sleep. I've never written or recorded one before, but here it is. I hope you find it helpful and relaxing!

Winnie the Pooh and the Power of Animation in Healing Mental Health Struggles

In this episode of Shrinked by Quint, I delve into the influence of animated characters on our understanding of mental health issues. Focusing on Winnie the Pooh, I discuss how animation effectively illustrates psychological concepts that enrich our daily lives. I highlight how the gentle and approachable nature of animation makes it an ideal medium for modelling solutions, as the beloved characters navigate their emotional challenges with empathy and support.

Opening Minds: How Animation is Transforming Mental Health - Part 2

"The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." — Ludwig Wittgenstein
In part one, I explored the history of animation; in part two, I focus on how animation specifically addresses mental health issues. I start by discussing how animation facilitates communication for individuals with low literacy or special educational needs. Next, I examine its applications in supporting those facing anxiety, depression, or recovery from substance abuse. Finally, I highlight how animation can enhance the growing field of psychoeducation, making complex concepts more accessible for both trainee therapists and clients.