Alissa Knight, clinical psychologist and director of The Calming Suite Psychology

In this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Dr Alissa Knight. Dr Alissa Knight is a clinical psychologist, researcher and founder of The Calming Suite. We discuss anxiety, perfectionism and mental health during the teen years. We also chat about disordered eating and binge drinking and the way these can sometimes go hand-in-hand. Finally we finish the conversation with a chat about self-care, balance and Alissa's amazing career.

About our guest

Dr Alissa Knight is a clinical psychologist, researcher and founder of The Calming Suite. Prior to becoming a psychologist, Alissa worked as a scientist/researcher, exploring areas such as psychiatry, psychology and nutrition. A woman of many talents, Alissa has also worked as a primary school teacher, journalist, professional dancer and yoga instructor. Having taught children for many years, Alissa was drawn towards working with youths in her psychology practice, particularly teens and young adults. With their whole lives ahead of them, Alissa is passionate about providing young people with the tools and skills needed to unlock joy and fulfillment. She is passionate about helping people to reach their full potential and transform their lives for the better.

Content warning

In this episode of Differently Brained we discuss alcohol abuse, disordered eating, suicidality and depression. Please feel free to skip this episode or reach out to medical professionals if it has brought anything up for you.

Episode partner

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Representations & resources

• The Calming Suite website
• Dr Alissa Knight's Instagram and LinkedIn
• The Body Keeps the Score by Professor Bessel van der Kolk
• Eight Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder and the companion workbook by Carolyn Costin and Gwen Schubert Grabb
• More Than a Body by Lindsay Kite and Lexie Kite
• At Last a Life: Anxiety and Panic Free by Paul David

You can purchase all of these book titles and more from your local independent bookseller or Booktopia. Please note by purchasing through these Booktopia partner links we are provided a small commission which allows us to continue to provide the podcast at no cost to our audience.

About the podcast

Differently Brained shares the opinions of individuals and does not consider your personal circumstances. Differently Brained exists purely for information purposes and should not be relied on as health or medical advice. Because no brain is the same, please consult your healthcare professional for your personal medical needs.

The Differently Brained team acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands on which we record, edit and stream this podcast. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples and their Elders part, present and emerging. We extend that respect to all First Nations cultures and their ongoing connection to the lands, waterways and communities.