Episode 05, #GetChatty About Your Local Businesses, Series 2024
This episode features guest Shaun Williams from Bent Couch Counselling, Shaun’s journey is a great example of self-discovery and transformation. He reinvented himself in his 50s; motivated by his own experiences and his psychologist’s guidance, he created a new beginning and fresh chapter in work and life – Bent Couch Counselling!
We discussed that sometimes (supposedly) feel-good moments for many could be difficult for others. For example, the holiday season can trigger expectation-related issues and make the thought of attending feel very challenging for some, so we talked about a couple of ways to workaround it.
Listen on Spotify:
or Watch on YouTube:
Here are my top 3 from this chat:
- Building a support network is essential, as well as making an effort to reach out to others you trust. If you haven’t quite got there yet, create/join a community where individuals can feel accepted and understood through existing connections or online.
- There is a parallel between self-acceptance and embracing one’s identity. Sharing one’s journey and learning with others is not easy, but it can be a positive thing for the sharer – to be vulnerable, honest, and open about emotions is an important ingredient in establishing meaningful connections.
- I really appreciated Shaun’s sharing of a super valuable lesson he learned: “If you can’t find it, start one.” By finding his own online group, he fostered (and is still foresting) connections with other mature-age gay men and nurtured an environment where men can be vulnerable and be fearless to share.
Bent Couch Counselling focuses on mental health within the LGBT+ community, where he addresses issues such as well-being, drug use, relationship challenges, and abuse. Many neglect this part of their lives; I hope this episode will help emphasise the need for self-care and mental well-being, no matter who and how you are.
Find Shaun:
bentcouch.com.au
linkedin.com/in/shaun-williams-119442250
facebook.com/bentcouchcounselling
instagram.com/bent_couch_counselling
tiktok.com/@rainbowcounsellor
This series would not be possible without our OG supporters, take a look at the full list here, chattycurator.com/podcast-supporters, and please consider giving them a follow or ref them to your friends!
Produced and hosted by Arthur Chan “The Chatty Curator”
Concepts, Curation & Marketing #GetChatty @ChattyCurator #TeamArt2Public
Here’re some useful mental well-being resources available in Australia:
- QLife A free service for LGBTQIA+ people in Australia
- 13Yarn 24/7 Crisis Support run by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders
- Mensline Australia 24/7 telephone counselling support for men with concerns about mental health, anger management, family violence (using and experiencing), addiction, relationship, stress and wellbeing.
- Suicide Call Back Service 24/7 Support Service for anyone with suicidal ideation
- Beyond Blue 24/7 Mental Health advice
- Headspace Mental Health resources
- Reach Out Peer Support Service for young persons
- Kids Helpline 24/7 Support for Kids from 5 to 25
- SANE Australia 24/7 Mental Health Assistance
- Lifeline 24/7 Crisis Support