In this episode of Sofia Unfiltered, Riley introduces us to Dr. Michelle Kole, a clinical psychologist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner with over 20 years of experience, and our newest co-host
Dr. Michelle Kole's Path to Psychology
Dr. Michelle Kole embarked on her path to psychology through a winding journey shaped by her childhood caregiving tendencies and a pivotal class in abnormal child and adolescent psychology. Inspired by Dr. Michael Palmer’s empathetic approach to therapy, she switched her major to psychology and eventually found her passion while connecting with clients during graduate school.
She worked with various populations and developed a deep passion for her work. However, in her 30s, she began to recognize the anxiety and burnout she was experiencing due to her empathetic nature and lack of self-care practices. This realization marked a turning point in her journey toward a more holistic approach to mental health.
Somatic Experiencing and Self-Discovery
Dr. Kole described her experience working with people in extreme situations, which left her feeling the effects of trauma in her own nervous system. In her early 30s, she discovered mindfulness meditation, which allowed her to experience deep inner peace, build greater emotional resilience, and create space between stimulus and response. This helped her make more conscious choices.
She also discovered Somatic Experiencing (SE) during a neuroscience conference. SE is a body-based therapy approach developed by Peter Levine that focuses on the body’s wisdom and sensations, which often communicate valuable information that may be overlooked in traditional psychotherapy.
Dr. Kole shared that SE helped her recognize and work through relational trauma, learn to trust others for support, and shift from feeling like a self-reliant island into a more connected individual.
She explained that SE involves slow, methodical processes, such as reworking memories and releasing stored tension. Ultimately, this can lead to a greater sense of expansiveness and increased life-force energy.
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Somatic Experiencing vs Neuro Linguistic Programming
Dr. Kole discusses the difference between Somatic Experiencing (SE) and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) when addressing unresolved trauma. She explains that SE is a body-based therapy method that focuses on using the whole body, including physical practices and techniques, to work through trauma.
In contrast, NLP primarily focuses on language and the mind as tools for healing. Dr. Kole also shares her personal journey of discovering the benefits of SE and the transformation it brought to her life.
The conversation also explores why people seek therapy and the value of preventive mental health care. Dr. Kole emphasizes the importance of offering individuals a safe and compassionate space to explore their emotions and experiences, which can support healing and personal growth.
The Three Pillars of Well-Being
Dr. Michelle Kole discusses several ways to support good mental health. She emphasizes the importance of practices such as meditation, proper sleep, and mindfulness around what we consume, not only through food but also through sensory experiences such as social media and our environment.
She highlights the value of these practices for overall well-being and resilience. Dr. Kole also mentions the importance of self-compassion and proper meditation instruction.
The conversation concludes with Dr. Kole sharing three fundamental pillars that contribute to her well-being: sleep, meditation, and an anti-inflammatory diet with adequate hydration.
More from Sofia Health
Check out the full episode of the Sofia Unfiltered podcast, "Sofia Unfiltered's New Cohost: Dr. Michelle Kole", available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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Disclaimer: The Sofia Unfiltered Podcast by Sofia Health is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have. For any health concerns, users should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals.
