Nov 28, 2023
In Episode 37 of our podcast, we welcomed Donn Bradley, a remarkable individual who transitioned from a career as a police officer to becoming a therapist. Donn's life journey is a testament to the power of personal growth and transformation.
Born in Oregon and raised in Oklahoma, Donn reflects on the societal norms he grew up with, where men were often discouraged from showing their emotions. He shared candidly about his early experiences in law enforcement, particularly the profound impact of encountering his first dead body, a moment that challenged his emotional resilience.
The turning point in Donn's life occurred after a significant incident in 2006, which led to a spiral of pain pills and alcohol as he struggled to cope with the emotional toll of his job. He navigated the complex workman's comp process and grappled with feelings of anger, stemming from perceived abandonment by people he expected to support him.
Donn explained the the crucial role of "permission" in personal transformation. He highlighted the three essential steps to initiate change: acknowledgment, understanding how experiences affect one's life, and granting oneself the permission to heal and grow.
He introduced the concept of "4 greater than 2: The New Mission," emphasizing that those who have the capability also bear the responsibility to help others. Donn outlined four key aspects of life that individuals should address for their well-being: physical, intellectual, social, and emotional.
The discussion also touched on the profound impact of stress, both emotional and physical, and the importance of granting oneself permission to embrace and express emotions.
Donn recommended the book "The Body Keeps the Score" and underlined the significance of healing for oneself rather than trying to meet others' expectations.
To connect with Donn Bradley for therapy and counseling, you can visit his website "Therapywithdonn" and explore telesession and telehealth options.
In closing, Donn shared a powerful message: "Give yourself permission." His journey from policing to counseling is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for transformation and healing.
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