What does “resilience” actually mean — and what is it not?

In this episode of Schoen Clinic Unscripted, host Greg Anderson is joined by Psychotherapist Lorraine Green and Counselling Psychologist Dr Irem Aksu to unpack resilience as a psychological process shaped by self-awareness, flexibility, boundaries, meaning, and support.

We discuss:

Why resilience is not stoicism, perfection, or never struggling

The difference between coping vs resilience (passive “powering through” vs active adaptation)

Why avoidance can shrink resilience (and how small challenges build capacity)

Growth mindset (“not yet”) and why it matters for resilience

Neuroplasticity: how the brain can change through practice and new thinking styles

Early foundations: attachment, emotional regulation, and role modelling How trauma can reduce resilience (hypervigilance, rigidity, emotional exhaustion)

Why resilience became a buzzword — and how hustle culture gets it wrong

Practical tools: cognitive reframing, thought diaries, problem-solving, boundaries, reflection Post-traumatic growth: “bouncing forward” after adversity

Why connection and support systems are central to recovery

If you’re feeling like you “should be coping better”, this conversation offers a more realistic and compassionate lens: resilience is built over time, not switched on overnight. 🧡

Learn more about our specialists:

Lorraine Green: https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/specialists/lorraine-green

Dr Irem Aksu: https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/specialists/dr-irem-aksu

Schoen Clinic Chelsea: https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/chelsea

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe for upcoming conversations on mental health, therapy, and recovery.

Important note: This podcast is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you need urgent help, contact emergency services or local crisis support in your country.

🏥 About Schoen Clinic Chelsea This episode was recorded at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, a leading private mental health clinic in London. Our expert team of consultant psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists and therapists provide world-class care for conditions such as ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, burnout and more.

We offer fast, confidential self-booking appointments and a full range of outpatient therapies to support recovery.