The Art of Therapy

Episode 24 introduces EMDR as a structured therapeutic procedure used especially in trauma work. We explore Francine Shapiro’s discovery, the adaptive information processing model, and the idea that traumatic experiences may remain unprocessed when the system becomes overwhelmed.The episode walks through the EMDR protocol, including target selection, desensitisation, positive belief installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation. It also looks at some of the questions and controversy around EMDR, including whether the therapeutic effect comes from bilateral stimulation, working memory taxation, suggestion, therapist skill, or a combination of factors.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 23 explores when hypnotherapy is indicated and when it may not be appropriate. We discuss hypnosis as one vehicle within psychotherapy, not a stand-alone answer for every client or presentation.The episode focuses on safety, consent, readiness, therapeutic relationship, and clinical judgement. It also considers situations where clients may need grounding, presence, or connection more than hypnosis. This is a practical episode about using hypnotherapy wisely, ethically, and in the right context.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 22 continues the exploration of hypnosis by looking at the Esdaile state and waking hypnosis. We unpack how deep hypnotic states can support profound comfort and pain relief, and why waking hypnosis shows that suggestion can operate even without a formal trance state.This episode focuses strongly on language, authority, and expectation. Whether in therapy, medicine, parenting, or moments of distress, the words used around a receptive person can shape their experience. It is a practical reminder that skilful communication is part of ethical care.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 21 explores the practical use of hypnotherapy in psychotherapy. We look at how hypnosis can support relaxation, pain management, trauma work, hypnobirthing, and other therapeutic goals by creating a state where learning, relief, and corrective experiences may become more accessible.This episode also clarifies an important clinical distinction: hypnosis is not a therapeutic orientation on its own. It is an adjunct that can deepen and strengthen the therapist’s existing skills, when used ethically, safely, and with proper training.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 20 continues the hypnotherapy discussion by unpacking the live hypnosis demonstration from the previous episode. We explore how therapists can recognise signs of hypnosis, why clients may already be in hypnosis before they realise it, and how validation helps deepen the experience.The episode also looks at post-hypnotic suggestions, wellness during emergence, and the importance of consent, communication, and safety. This is a practical bridge between observing hypnosis and understanding how it can be used meaningfully in therapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

A live Dave Elman induction with a first-time subject — recorded unedited in the Centre. No prior hypnosis experience. Full somnambulism reached on the first attempt.Episode 19 of The Art of Therapy. Dr Warwick D Phipps demonstrates a rapid Elman-style induction with a member of the Treatment Works team experiencing hypnosis for the first time. Four convincers are shown within a single session: two in-trance (eye catalepsy, arm rigidity) and two post-hypnotic (a colour-anchored suggestion the subject continues to notice in the days that follow, and time distortion confirmed in the subject's own subjective report after emergence).🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 18 explores hypnosis and hypnotherapy as a therapeutic tool for accessing deeper levels of change. We look at the history of hypnosis, Dave Elman’s influential definition, and the role of the conscious, subconscious, and unconscious mind.This episode also challenges common misconceptions about hypnosis, including the idea that people lose control or can get “stuck”. Instead, hypnosis is framed as a natural state of mind that can help soften the mind’s filter, allowing corrective and healing suggestions to be received more effectively.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 17 explores Narrative Therapy and the value of working with the stories people tell about themselves, their problems, and their futures.We look at how externalising the problem creates psychological distance, why problem-saturated stories can keep clients stuck, and how unique outcomes help uncover truths that may have been left out of the dominant narrative. This episode offers a hopeful and practical lens for helping clients move from shame and stuckness towards agency, meaning, and a different story.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

EP16 introduces systems thinking as a value-adding lens in therapy: focusing on interaction, relationship, and pattern rather than isolated parts. We tease the idea of emergent qualities and self-regulation in systems, and why this shift can change how you understand problems and where you choose to intervene.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

EP15 introduces DBT as a third-wave development that targets emotional dysregulation with practical, learnable skills. We explore why regulation and stability often come before deeper change—and how DBT offers a structured way to help clients handle distress, improve relationships, and regain choice under pressure.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 14 explores ACT as a third-wave CBT approach centred on psychological flexibility. We discuss how ACT helps clients relate differently to thoughts and feelings through defusion, acceptance, present-moment awareness, and self-as-context, creating more internal space and less struggle.We also emphasise values and committed action—how therapy can support movement towards a meaningful direction, even when distress is present. This episode positions ACT as a practical, value-adding lens for helping clients build resilience and agency.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 13 explores CBT as a practical, integrative framework that connects cognition and behaviour to create measurable change. We look at how CBT helps clients identify patterns that maintain distress, then test more workable alternatives through structured exploration and skill-building.This episode emphasises CBT’s value in supporting independence: clients learn how to notice their thinking, evaluate it realistically, and translate new understanding into action that builds confidence and momentum.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 12 explores the cognitive revolution and why cognition becomes central to psychotherapy. We trace a key shift: the mind as an information-processing system worth examining, including memory, perception, attention, and beliefs.We then unpack Albert Ellis’ REBT and the ABC model (beliefs as the driver of emotional distress), followed by Aaron Beck’s empirical contributions: automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, the cognitive triad in depression, and the move towards evidence-based cognitive therapy. This episode sets up the bridge into CBT by showing how cognition and behaviour begin to integrate.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 11 introduces Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy and the clinical relevance of meaning. We explore the existential vacuum—how a loss of meaning can present as boredom, depression, or compliance with roles—and why this can become a hidden driver of distress.We also unpack two key logotherapeutic ideas: paradoxical intention (approaching feared experiences to disrupt anxiety cycles) and dereflection (reducing symptom-focused preoccupation by reorienting towards purpose and values). This episode positions meaning as an essential part of integrative psychotherapy, especially when “functioning” is present but vitality is missing.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 10 explores Carl Rogers’ person-centred therapy and why the therapeutic relationship itself can be the mechanism of change. We unpack the core conditions—accurate empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard—and discuss how these shape self-concept, safety, and growth in therapy.This episode clarifies the deeper logic of Rogers’ approach and why it remains a foundational lens within integrative psychotherapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 9 explores the humanistic lens through Abraham Maslow’s work on human motivation, development, and self-actualisation. We look at Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as a practical way of understanding what drives behaviour and distress, and why unmet needs often shape the problems clients bring to therapy.We also discuss the humanistic focus on growth: therapy as a process that supports movement towards wholeness and becoming more fully oneself. This episode situates Maslow’s thinking as an important part of the integrative psychotherapy map.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 8 explores operant conditioning and Skinner’s key insight: voluntary behaviour is shaped by consequences. We unpack reinforcement and punishment, why reinforcement often maintains patterns unintentionally, and how clinicians can think more clearly about what a behaviour achieves for the client.We also introduce concepts like shaping and extinction, framing behaviour therapy as a structured, measurable way of understanding and shifting patterns over time.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 7 explores the “step change” introduced by behaviourism and behaviour therapy. We unpack the shift from interpreting inner experience to focusing on observable learning processes, including Pavlov’s classical conditioning and Watson’s behaviourist framework.We also discuss how emotional responses like fear can be learned and maintained through conditioning, and why this lens helped psychotherapy develop more structured, measurable approaches to change. This episode situates behaviour therapy as a key chapter in the integrative map of psychotherapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 6 explores Attachment Theory as a foundational lens for psychotherapy. We discuss Bowlby’s central shift: attachment is a primary, biologically wired survival system, not something secondary to other drives. We then follow the research pathway through Ainsworth’s Strange Situation and the emergence of attachment patterns (secure and insecure strategies).We focus on clinical relevance: how attachment shapes emotion regulation, relational expectations, and what clients repeat in close relationships—including the therapeutic relationship.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 5, we explore Object Relations Theory—a major development in psychodynamic psychotherapy that helps therapists understand how a client’s early relationships shape their inner world, expectations, and patterns of relating. We look at how theorists like Melanie Klein shifted the focus from drives to relationships, and how concepts like splitting (the “good” and “bad” object) can help explain emotional intensity, instability, and rigid relational expectations. We also explore how attachment experiences become templates that clients bring into adult relationships—and into the therapy room through transference. A key clinical takeaway in this episode is that therapy is not only about insight. It’s also about creating conditions for a corrective experience in the here-and-now, where new ways of relating can become possible.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 4 introduces Anna Freud’s ego psychology and the clinical value of understanding what the ego is doing in session. We explore defence mechanisms as adaptive strategies—often necessary for survival—and how Anna Freud’s work helps therapists distinguish between healthy and unhealthy defences with greater clarity.We also reflect on trauma-related work and why ego strengthening, reorientation, and safety can be foundational steps before deeper interpretive or exploratory interventions. This episode adds a practical, therapist-friendly layer to the integrative map of psychotherapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Episode 3 introduces Jung’s analytical psychology as a vital lens within integrative psychotherapy. We explore individuation, Jung’s distinction between the personal and collective unconscious, and how archetypes offer a practical way of understanding repeating patterns in human behaviour and meaning-making.We unpack the persona and shadow, and why disowned parts of the self often shape symptoms, relationships, and the therapeutic relationship itself. This episode frames integration as more than technique—it’s a coherent way of working with complexity, wholeness, and human development.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 2 of The Art of Therapy (Season 3), we step into the psychoanalytic lens and explore how Freud’s thinking emerged—starting with hypnosis, the early treatment of hysteria, and the debate between the Paris school (Charcot) and the Nancy school (Bernheim/Liébault).We trace how hypnosis shaped Freud’s discovery of unconscious processes, and how Breuer’s work (including Anna O) introduced catharsis and relief through emotional expression. From there, we unpack Freud’s shift into free association, and why dream analysis became such a powerful way of surfacing unconscious material safely.We also introduce one of Freud’s most clinically relevant ideas: transference—how past emotional experiences can reappear in the therapeutic relationship—and how that becomes meaningful material for insight and change. Finally, we outline Freud’s structural model of the mind: id, ego, and superego, and why the ego’s mediating role matters so much in psychotherapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In this first episode of The Art of Therapy: Season 3, we begin with the origin story of psychotherapy and the question that grounds everything: why do we do what we do? We revisit the early foundations associated with Freud and Breuer, the cathartic method and the “talking cure”, and the movement from hypnosis towards free association.From there, we map the broad arc of theory development—psychodynamic, behavioural, humanistic/existential, CBT, and systems thinking—showing how each orientation adds meaning, depth, and relief in its own way. Episode 1 sets up the season’s theme: integrative psychotherapy as a structured way of holding multiple lenses at once.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

Season 3 is about integration: not simply knowing multiple approaches, but understanding how they connect and why they belong together. Building on last season’s focus on Interactional Pattern Analysis (IPA), this trailer introduces the season’s central idea—moving from an ad hoc, eclectic approach to integrative psychotherapy that is coherent, purposeful, and clinically clear.Across the season, Marizaan and Dr Warrick explore and unpack a range of therapies, including psychoanalysis, behaviourism, humanistic and existential traditions, CBT, narrative therapy, hypnosis and hypnotherapy, and newer developments such as psychedelics. This is an invitation to think more clearly about what you do in the room—and why.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 23 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen walk through the practical steps of doing an Interactional Pattern Analysis (IPA) — from the first person-centred session to identifying interactional variables and finding meaningful therapeutic direction.This episode shows how IPA allows therapists to remain deeply present with clients while also stepping back to observe communication, emotional distance, confirmation, needs, control, flexibility, and circular causality. Rather than overwhelming clinicians with technique, IPA offers a structured way to see what is already happening — and to identify the smallest change that can create the biggest relief.Created for therapists and psychologists who want clear thinking, practical structure, and accessible learning after emotionally demanding workdays.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 22 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore how DSM diagnosis and Interactional Pattern Analysis (IPA) work together — and why therapists don’t have to choose between them.They unpack the DSM as a powerful, symptom-based diagnostic system rooted in the medical model, while introducing IPA as a relational diagnostic lens that locates difficulty in patterns of interaction, communication, and systems rather than solely within the individual.This episode shows how integrating both approaches expands what therapists can see, understand, and work with — creating more room for clarity, compassion, and effective intervention.Created for working therapists and psychologists who want depth, integration, and relief from diagnostic confusion — without academic overload.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 21 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen introduce Interactional Pattern Analysis (IPA) — an integrative framework that helps therapists bring clarity, structure, and direction to complex clinical work.They explore how IPA allows therapists to remain deeply person-centred while also observing communication, interaction patterns, and systemic dynamics — without becoming overwhelmed or rigid. Rather than switching between theories, this episode shows how integration creates coherence, creativity, and confidence in the therapy room.For therapists and psychologists, this conversation offers relief from information overload and a grounded way to think about therapy — not just techniques.Created for working clinicians who want depth, clarity, and integration without academic exhaustion.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 20 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen bring together the core ideas explored throughout the season — and answer the essential clinical question: What does a therapist actually do with all of this? They explain how the presenting complaint serves as context, focus, and guide — helping therapists decide where to look, what to prioritise, and how to move therapy forward without relying on bias or intuition alone. This episode shows how linking observed interaction patterns to the presenting problem transforms therapy from overwhelm into clarity, making the work both goal-directed and deeply humane. Created for working therapists and psychologists who want accessible, restorative learning that sharpens thinking without adding to burnout.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 19 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore how trauma fundamentally changes the way people relate, communicate, and behave.They unpack trauma as a deeply disturbing experience that can temporarily disrupt concentration, empathy, emotional regulation, and preferred ways of relating — often without the person realising what is happening. Crucially, this episode shows why therapists must first ask “Has there been trauma?” before interpreting interaction patterns.For therapists and psychologists, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and a vital reminder: behaviour that looks problematic may actually be a normal response to an abnormal experience.Created for working clinicians who want meaningful, accessible learning without the exhaustion of traditional academic theory.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 18 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore a subtle but powerful interpersonal dynamic: a person’s capacity to elicit acceptance or rejection in relationships.They unpack how behaviour — often outside of awareness — can draw others closer or unintentionally push them away. Importantly, this episode highlights the difference between intention and impact, showing why distress, isolation, and repeated relational pain can occur even when rejection is never intended.For therapists and psychologists, this episode offers a clear, compassionate framework for observing interaction patterns and helping clients understand how their way of relating shapes mental wellbeing.Created for working clinicians who want meaningful learning without the drain of heavy academic theory.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 17 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore flexibility — the often-overlooked skill that links control, adaptation, and mental wellbeing.They unpack why being effective in one environment doesn’t guarantee effectiveness in another, and how rigid “preferred ways of relating” can quietly contribute to distress, conflict, and stuck therapeutic processes. Through practical examples, they show how flexibility is not about being agreeable, but about responding appropriately to context.For therapists and psychologists, this episode offers a clear, accessible lens for observing adaptability in clients — and in ourselves — without judgment.Created for working clinicians who want concise, meaningful learning that deepens insight without adding to burnout.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 16 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore one of the most challenging — and most essential — principles in mental health: control.They break down why control is uncomfortable to discuss, how it shapes relationships, and why therapists must learn to observe influence, yielding, helplessness, and excessive control in the room.Through clinical examples, they illustrate how a person’s ability (or inability) to influence their environment connects to presenting problems — including depression, passivity, powerlessness, anger, and relational strain.For therapists and psychologists, this episode offers a deeply clarifying look at a concept that sits beneath much of human behaviour.Created for working clinicians who want concise but transformative learning — without the exhaustion of heavy theory.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 15 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore how problem-solving skills strengthen mental wellbeing and therapeutic effectiveness.They outline three core steps that move us from reactivity to clarity — defining the problem, understanding its causes, and systematically testing solutions. By learning to step back and observe rather than react, therapists and clients alike develop greater objectivity and balance.Created for working therapists and psychologists who want concise, restorative learning to refine their craft without burnout.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works: https://treatmentworks.co.za/links

In Episode 14 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore metacommunication — the powerful skill of talking about communication itself.They explain how reflecting on communication—intention, impact, context, and timing—helps clients and therapists resolve misunderstandings, strengthen relationships, and create shared understanding.This episode clarifies how learning to metacommunicate turns breakdowns into breakthroughs.Designed for working therapists and psychologists seeking accessible, restorative learning that deepens skill without draining energy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 13 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen introduce one of the most transformative ideas in systems thinking — circular causality.They explain how human behaviour can’t always be understood in straight lines of cause and effect, and why seeing interaction as circular helps therapists recognise mutual influence, relational patterns, and the dynamic “dance” of communication.For therapists and psychologists, this episode offers a refreshing, accessible way to expand clinical understanding — making complex theory both practical and restorative.Created for professionals who want concise, meaningful learning that inspires insight without adding to exhaustion.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 12 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore how understanding and expressing needs is central to mental wellbeing and therapeutic growth.Building on Carl Rogers’ person-centred approach, they examine how self-concept and positive regard intersect with the way we communicate our needs — and why assertiveness is the bridge between awareness and connection.This episode offers practical insight for therapists and psychologists who want to strengthen their observational skills and help clients build healthy patterns of self-expression.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 11 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore positive regard, self-actualization, and confirmation — the need to feel seen, valued, and acknowledged.Building on Carl Rogers’ person-centred theory, they explain how congruence, empathy, and unconditional positive regard lay the foundation for growth — but confirmation adds something vital: the experience of mattering.For therapists and psychologists, this episode offers a restorative reflection on how giving and receiving confirmation supports both client wellbeing and the therapist’s own sense of meaning in their work.Designed for professionals who want accessible, bite-sized learning to reconnect with the heart of therapy — without the exhaustion of heavy theory.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy. Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 10 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore how emotional closeness and distance influence every therapeutic encounter.They unpack how therapists can observe connection—not just feel it—through subtle cues like eye contact, posture, and openness. The discussion shows how these observations reveal much about a client’s internal world and how emotional distance connects to their presenting problems.Designed for working therapists and psychologists, this episode offers a concise, restorative reflection on the art of observation—bringing clarity and presence to your practice without the exhaustion of heavy theory.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 9 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore how clarity—or the lack of it—shapes every relationship.They discuss how a therapist can observe communication patterns that reveal much about a client’s presenting problem: clarity of expression, logical flow, and how intention and impact often differ. Even small communication lapses can influence connection, trust, and emotional wellbeing.For therapists and psychologists who spend their days listening deeply to others, this episode offers a practical, accessible reflection on the art of communication—designed to inform, restore, and inspire without overwhelming.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 8 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen introduce a new lens for understanding human interaction—the definition of relationship.Building on the foundation of congruence, empathy, and unconditional positive regard, this episode explores how therapists can observe and describe how people relate. Dr. Phipps explains three fundamental relationship definitions—complementary, symmetrical, and parallel—and how each can influence communication, conflict, and well-being.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Season 2 Episode 7 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore the third and final element of Carl Rogers’ person-centred approach: unconditional positive regard.They unpack what it means to experience true acceptance, to be regarded without judgment, and why this sense of being “okay as I am” is central to emotional and psychological wellbeing. The discussion connects congruence, empathy, and acceptance as interdependent qualities that shape trust, understanding, and self-actualisation in therapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 6 of The Art of Therapy, we explore the second essential quality of therapeutic relationships: empathy.Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen unpack why empathy is more than just understanding,it’s the act of accurately entering another’s frame of reference. Drawing from Carl Rogers’ person-centred approach, they explain how empathy can be both profoundly healing and, at times, exhausting when misapplied.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 5 of Season 2, we look at the first key quality of relationships that supports mental wellbeing: congruence.Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore why congruence—alignment between what is said and how it is said, both verbally and nonverbally—is essential in therapy and in everyday relationships. They discuss how congruence builds trust, why in-congruence often leads to “double messages,” and how therapists can observe congruence both in the therapeutic relationship and in the client’s broader context.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 4 of Season 2, we ask why relationships matter so profoundly to mental wellbeing.Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explore Carl Rogers’ person-centred principles—congruence, empathy, and unconditional positive regard—and how these qualities support self-actualisation and emotional health. They connect Rogers’ ideas to more recent research, including Liesl van den Berg’s 2008 study, which showed how the quality of our relationships directly shapes our mental wellbeing.This episode highlights how meaningful, authentic relationships foster growth, while unhelpful or unfulfilling ones contribute to distress.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In Episode 3 of Season 2, we ask a key question: where should therapists focus their attention?Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen unpack how context determines the meaning of behaviour and why this helps therapists know which relationships to observe. Drawing from Gregory Bateson’s work on systems and communication, they show how a client’s presenting problem can act as a “flashlight,” guiding where to look in the complexity of interactions.This episode highlights the integrative power of combining person-centred care, communication theory, and systems thinking—creating a broader lens that helps therapists see more, understand more, and focus on what’s most relevant.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In this episode, we dive into the first step of diagnosis: describing the client’s presenting problem.Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen explain why careful description of symptoms is often overlooked, and yet so essential. They show how listening actively and accurately not only supports diagnosis but can itself be profoundly therapeutic—sometimes the act of being heard is already healing.The conversation also begins to explore causal processes, distinguishing between speculation about internal states and the value of observing visible behaviour. This episode lays the foundation for seeing problems more clearly and working with them more effectively.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In the first episode of Season 2 of The Art of Therapy, we return to the foundational skills that shape meaningful therapeutic work: observation and diagnosis.Join Dr. Warrick Phipps and psychologist Marizaan Koen on an exploration of the role of trained observation in therapy, not simply as a passive process of noticing, but as an active, clinical tool that shapes the entire therapeutic journey. From the initial understanding of a client’s distress to the evolving strategies used in treatment, observation is deeply intertwined with diagnostic thinking. Rather than viewing diagnosis as a one-time step, this conversation highlights it as a recursive process—one that continually refines and deepens the work of therapy.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

Series 2 of The Art of Therapy is here. This all new series ventures deeper into the craft of psychotherapy, exploring not only what therapy is, but how to practise it more effectively.Join Dr. Warrick Phipps and fellow psychologist Marizaan Koen as they unpack how the presentation of difficulties can shape the direction of therapy, as well as why particular interactions and relationships matter, and how communication and relational patterns connect to mental well-being.This second season encompasses the how and why of therapy, in the hopes of elevating your practice and enhancing your therapy skills with every conversation.#TreatmentWorksHealthCareCentre #TheArtOfTherapy #Podcast #TreatmentWorks #Therapy #Psychology #Training #SystemsTherapy #Psychotherapy #TalkTherapy

In Episode 15 of The Art of Therapy, we deepen the conversation about the integrative-interactional approach. We explore how different therapeutic lenses — person-centred, communication, and systems — combine to create a richer, higher-order way of seeing clients. This integration helps therapists observe more, understand more, and ultimately help more.🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/