Demystifying the art of talk therapy and the complex relationship between therapist and patient

Psychotherapy, also known as 'the talking cure', is based on a profound and usually ongoing connection between a person and their therapist.

This type of work, often dealing with long buried events or feelings, can be transformative for patients.

Gill Straker has a lifetime of experience as a psychotherapist, in Australia and in her birthplace, South Africa.

Her work counselling victims of brutality and trauma during the apartheid regime was fundamental to her ongoing practice.

At the heart of every successful therapeutic session, says Gill, is a willingness to be present, open, and to learn from each other.

She encourages people to include the health of their minds as well as their bodies, when looking to improve their wellbeing.

Further information

The Talking Cure by Professor Gillian Straker and Dr Jacqui Winship is published by Macmillan

Gill is a clinical professor in the School of Psychology at Sydney University

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