There are a number of people in my life with whom a simple, superficial conversation is not possible. This guest is one of those people and I think you'll enjoy the layers and gentle rhythm of our discussion on the unique development potential in the crises that highly creative, deep feeling, big thinking individuals encounter. 

In my work I often support occupational therapists through their own crisis points toward knowing themselves more deeply and thriving personally and professionally as levels that were not possible before things fell apart (or explode as the case may be). This can be viewed through the lens of post-traumatic growth, self-actualization, growth mindset, ACT, or positive psychology but the theory that always comes to mind for me is the Theory of Positive Disintegration, developed by Polish psychologist, Kazimierz Dąbrowski. 

If you are experiencing a disorienting season of challenge and uncertainty, I'd be happy to talk to you and see if we can work together toward making sense of it, as I have with many international OTs in my coaching practice and a variety others in my mental health OT practice. 

➡️ Book a call with me here ⬅️

This interview came about because one of the people who taught me about the theory of positive disintegration, my sons' elementary school principal, Hal Curties, approached me to discuss his observation of this theory playing out on my social media pages as OTs posted about their struggles, sensitivities, complex reflections and responses to the world in crisis, career transitions, and midlife unravelling over the last few years. 

Hal Curties is also the musician who created the intro and outro music for The BRAVE OT Podcast. He has retired from his profession since this episode was recorded and is now able to focus more fully on his music and other meaningful occupations.

🎶 If you'd like to explore hiring Hal to compose music to deepen your impact on the world, you can email him at [email protected]. His band, Ceard also has an album called Now and Then on Spotify.

 

More on the Theory of Positive Disintegration

Dąbrowski's Theory of Positive Disintegration, a somewhat complex concept, is, at its heart, a guide to understanding the beautiful mess of our inner worlds. It's about recognizing that moments of inner turmoil, when you feel like everything is falling apart, may reach beyond the chaos and toward personal growth. As one comes through the suffering and chaos disintegration, the independent pieces come together more artfully to create a beautifully intricate mosaic, tapestry, or painting, creating newfound levels of consciousness, creativity, authentic alignment between values and actions. Often referenced in gifted education, this theory can help you see the vivid artistry in your own disorienting experiences and appreciate the potential hidden within your complexities, sensitivities, and excitability.

Websites:

Positive Disintegration - A website with a comprehensive collection of knowledge on TPD

Wikipedia - I like the way the levels of disintegration are described here in a digestible way

Recommended books on the topic:

Dąbrowski's Theory of Positive Disintegration by Sal Mendaglio  

Personality Development Through Positive Disintegration: The Work of Kazimierz Dąbrowski by Bill Tillier 

Positive Disintegration by Kazimierz Dąbrowski

Personality Shaping by Kazimierz Dąbrowski