#22 Early Experiences, PTSD & Depression: Emerging Paths to Healing | Mark Baxter

Episode Description:Why do certain emotional patterns keep repeating?Why does trauma linger in the body long after the event has passed?And is healing truly possible?In this episode of Mind Your Being, I’m joined by Psychologist Mark Baxter, Director of The Psychology Spot in Wollongong, NSW. With over two decades of experience, Mark specialises in trauma recovery, PTSD, adverse childhood experiences, attachment difficulties and depression.Together, we explore:How childhood adversity shapes self-beliefs and identityThe connection between the nervous system, mental health and physical healthDepression as a complex syndrome — not a personal flawWhy trauma can become “stuck” and how therapies like EMDR help process itThe importance of the therapeutic relationshipThe emerging field of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSDPsilocybin-assisted therapy for treatment-resistant depressionWhy self-acceptance is central to healingWe also discuss Australia’s evolving approach to psychedelic-assisted therapies, who may be suitable candidates, and why careful screening and integration are essential.This is a grounded, compassionate and hopeful conversation about understanding yourself more deeply — and moving toward healing with greater self-awareness and self-compassion.If you’ve ever struggled with depression, trauma, or harsh self-criticism, this episode is for you. Bio:Mark has been working as a psychologist for over two decades and is the Director of The Psychology Spot, a group private practice in Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.Over the past 8 years, Mark has undertaken additional training in psychedelic-assisted therapy. He provides MDMA and psilocybin-assisted therapy with Evolution Medicine Enhanced Therapy at Northern Beaches Hospital and Tikvah Centre for Eating Disorder Recovery in Sydney.Links:https://www.thepsychologyspot.com.au/https://www.evolutionmet.com/https://mindyourbeing.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mindyourbeingpodcast/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#https://x.com/mind_yourbeinghttps://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcastThanks so much for listening,Cass xDisclaimer:The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.