Sunday, April 6, 2025

Meeting My Mentor in the Traumatic Stress Field: A Full-Circle Moment with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk

 


Guess who I had the honor of meeting today?
It’s none other than Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, the author of “The Body Keeps the Score” — and my very first mentor in the field of trauma healing. 🌟

A few years ago, I completed the Traumatic Stress Studies under his guidance, and that experience has profoundly shaped the work I do today — especially in promoting trauma-informed practices within occupational and organizational psychology.

So today, standing beside him at a trauma workshop, and having the chance to share the trauma-informed initiatives we’re developing — it honestly felt surreal. I was overwhelmed with a mix of excitement and gratitude. Listening to him speak passionately about neurofeedback for trauma recovery, and watching him introduce these concepts to an audience of experts… I truly felt seen and affirmed.

Even more inspiring is his unwavering dedication — now in his 80s, he traveled all the way from the U.S. to Australia just to teach and connect with us. His passion and presence were simply electric. ⚡

Many of the values and approaches we apply at our center are deeply inspired by his work. I’m incredibly thankful to be invited by leaders in Australia’s trauma neurofeedback community to this private, closed-door event. It was such a surprise and an absolute privilege to learn alongside world-class trauma experts like Dr. Ruth, Sebern, and many other pioneers in the field.

Can’t wait to bring these insights and inspirations back home to Malaysia. 🫶🏻





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