Who am 'I', and what is 'the self'?

In this episode, Rich and Ray take on the tricky problem of trying to understand what psychologists mean they talk about 'the self'. Is there really a 'me' in here or is it all just an illusion? In an effort to make such a deep and foundational concept understandable to the audience they provide one example of how 'the self' is made sense of, drawing on the theory and practice of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). They begin a conversation around how to help people who are struggling with identity and self-criticism, although since the topic is so big and important, this will be continued in next month's episode. Speaking of identity, for some light relief, this episode also contains references to our two psychologists' terrible fashion choices.

The book that Rich co-wrote with Joe Oliver on this subject, 'The Mindfulness and Acceptance Workbook for Self-esteem', can be found here, along with some free guided meditations and downloadable tools.

If you want to send feedback, suggest topics for future episodes or make contact for any other reason, you can do so at 2oldpsychspod@gmail.com