Greetings Ego State Therapy colleagues and friends,
I hope this finds you well, enjoying the magical time as we progress through the holiday season.
As I finished gathering the final touches for this newsletter, I was also finishing up another EST Foundations Course. It is so rewarding to see the legacy the Watkins’ started continuing with the enthusiasm of therapists young and old just learning about the approach we have all become so passionate about.
Now more than ever, I am so grateful for this approach, not only for my practice but also as I apply the principles to other systems, such as the divided country in which I live. In today's politically charged climate, we are seeing deep divisions that often affect the well-being of ourselves and our clients. As therapists, it is vital that we approach these conversations with empathy, understanding, and neutrality, honouring the diverse perspectives everyone brings. Ego State Therapy recognizes that all parts of a system are important and invites us to acknowledge and work with the different "parts" of ourselves and others, fostering compassionate dialogue that transcends opposing views. By helping clients identify and communicate from a place of understanding, we create opportunities for healing and peaceful resolution. Let us inspire hope, encourage open-heartedness, and promote a collective sense of unity, where all voices are heard, valued, and respected. Together, we can build bridges, not walls.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this issue. I understand it can be challenging to get your submissions in, but the community truly values staying connected with what’s happening around the world. The newsletter wouldn’t be possible without your input. As you may have noticed, there has only been one issue this year. Due to the time and effort required to put it together, I plan to publish just one issue annually moving forward. Please keep this in mind as you gather information throughout the year for future submissions.
Submissions for the next newsletter should be sent to me at wendylemkelp@gmail.com and/or my assistant at vicki@wendylemke-psy.com by 15 October 2025. Please let me know prior to this if you would like to write an article for the clinical corner or if you have a book to review.
With Gratitude,
Wendy Lemke, Newsletter Editor
