Finding Strength in Dyslexia: Chris's Journey from Shame to Empowerment
Release Date: 12/03/2025
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Finding Strength in Dyslexia: Chris's Journey from Shame to Empowerment
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info_outline"When I put my mind to something, I get it. No matter what's in my way, I get it."
In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob speaks with Chris, a hypnotherapist and former paramedic who shares her journey with dyslexia.
For decades, Chris kept her dyslexia hidden, carrying shame from being labeled 'a bit slow' as a child in the 1970s. From hairdressing to becoming a paramedic and eventually a hypnotherapist, Chris reveals how she pushed through education and career challenges without accepting help, fearing judgment and different treatment.
Now, Chris openly embraces her neurodivergence, using her experiences to help others through her hypnotherapy practice. We explore the emotional impact of labels, the journey toward self-acceptance, and finding your inner strength.
Key takeaways:
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Early labels and stigma can shape how we see ourselves for decades, but healing and acceptance are always possible.
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Many neurodivergent individuals develop their own coping strategies and may struggle to accept formal accommodations due to past experiences.
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Pushing through challenges is part of many neurodivergent journeys, but recognising when we need support is equally important.
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Finding safe spaces and supportive environments makes it easier to share our authentic selves without fear of judgment.
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Our neurodivergent traits can become strengths when we embrace them and use them to help others.
"I used to be so ashamed of it. Now I'm getting to the point where I'm comfortable sharing because it's part of who I am."
About Chris:
Chris is a hypnotherapist and solution-focused psychotherapist who discovered her calling after a fulfilling career as a paramedic.
After working her way up from patient transport services to becoming a paramedic and later a practitioner, Chris eventually burned out and transitioned into hypnotherapy. Today, she works with clients dealing with mental health challenges and helps others find their inner peace through meditation and therapeutic techniques.
Learn more about Achievable Journey.
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