Clinton Power Named “Relationship Influencer” by Sunshine Coast Daily

I was honoured to be recently featured in a 2-page feature in the Sunshine Coast Daily where I was named a relationship influencer and was interviewed about how I became a relationship therapist by another therapist, Joanne Wilson.

You can see image of the lift out from the magazine below or read the transcript underneath the images.

 

Transcript:

MENTORS ARE SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE YOU RESPECT WHO HAVE BEEN THERE AND DONE IT

WORDS: JOANNE WILSON

Cutting your own mistakes short by not repeating those of others is well, smart! So often, I’m suggesting that clients find mentors, either in marriage, business or for just life! Mentors are successful people you respect who have been there and done it. It’s highly likely they’re proud to share their wisdom with others.

Enjoy this interview in my current series of “Relationship Influencers” with someone I’ve been inspired by for many years. Clinton Power operates his own counselling private practice in Sydney as well as the Mind Body Training Institute. He regularly contributes to media and certainly gifted me with plenty of expertise through his podcasts for establishing my counselling practice.

As a highly regarded “influencer” of Australian relationships, how did you come to specialise in this field?

One of my first jobs was with a large national organization that specialized in relationships. This was a baptism by fire because I was suddenly working with 15 to 20 couples a week and had to come up with ideas and interventions to help them with their relationship problems. I won’t say it was easy, but it was some of the best “on the job” learning I’ve ever had.

When I moved into private practice a few years later, I decided to continue to specialise in working with couples. As I got more experience and specific training in couples therapy, I realised I love working with couples and I’m passionate about helping people improve their relationships.

You’ve been integral to inspire a myriad of health practitioners (including me!) around the world through your podcasts, courses and media. What motivates you to invest so much energy into enlightening and educating us?

I think I love teaching because I spent close to 20 years teaching in my former career as a professional classical musician. As health practitioners, none of us can rest on our laurels and experience or ever stop learning. I took my love of teaching and made it my mission to help as many health practitioners as I can as former founder of Australia Counselling Directory, and now as co-director of the Mind Body Training Institute. I also love the way technology is making it so much easier to reach and educate people across the world.

Have you had any “behind the scenes” funny moments while contributing through these mediums?

I think the funniest behind-the-scenes moment occurred when I was involved in a live broadcast from the 2GB Melbourne Studios with relationship therapist Dr. Stan Tatkin and Melissa Ferrari, who is also a relationship therapist and co-host of the 2GB Talking Lifestyle radio show.

We had some serious technical problems at the last minute before our live cross that had the main host Jono Coleman in the Sydney studio having to ad lib while we tried to get our microphones to work. In the end we all ended up with a serious case of the giggles and none of us could speak by the time we got our microphones working. Thankfully, Dr. Tatkin was able to get on top of his laughing fit sooner than the rest of us and we eventually go the show under way. I thing anyone listening would have been wondering what was going on.

What has been the most difficult aspect of delivering your podcasts?

The most difficult aspect of delivering our podcasts over the years has been the enormous time investment. Thankfully, we got some more administrative help over the years but, when I first started podcasting, I did all the thankless tasks that took hours and hours a week.

What has been a highlight of your career so far?

When I was able to go into full-time private practice was a highlight for me. Running my own practice was something I had wanted to achieve for many years, so it was a thrill when it happened.

What is the most challenging aspect of your role in the working with couples?

There’s no doubt that working with couples is enormously challenging for many therapists. I used to find working with couples very difficult and exhausting until I get some great couples therapy training called PACT, which is an acronym for Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy. It’s an approach that was created by couples therapist Dr. Stan Tatkin. I’ve found PACT has transformed the way I work with couples. Since I’ve learned his approach, I love working with couples more than ever.

You are a specialist in therapy for LGBTI couples. Does your approach differ much when working with heterosexual relationships?

No, my approach doesn’t change when working with LGBTI couples. The great thing about PACT is it works with all types of couples – straight, gay, mixed orientation, polyamorous, or open relationships.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received about relationships and who did it come from?

I learned from Dr. Tatkin that the most successful couples still fight and have disagreements, but what sets them apart from other couples is they repair quickly to get their relationship back on track. I often tell this to the couples I work with.

Technology continues to entertain and challenge couples. Have you noticed any other testing trends as we surge on into 2018?

One of the things I’ve seen a lot more couples dealing with lately is “virtual infidelity”. This usually involves one partner secretly flirting or sexting with someone outside of the relationship on social media. I think social media has enormous benefits as well as the huge pitfalls when it comes to relationships. It’s definitely not going away but I see it continuing to be an issue in many relationships in the future.

I find that flourishing, successful coupes seem to feature two very unscientific words, being respect and kindness. Would you add any additional words?

I think they are great behaviours in any relationship. I also think the regular expression of appreciation and gratitude in a relationship makes a big difference in the long run.

As a fellow relationship therapist, we have the sacred honour of listening to some often heart-wrenching and confronting stories. How do you unwind and separate work from your personal life?

The things that keep me sane in this profession are my regular swimming, yoga and meditation. As a therapist, regular self-care is essential for doing the best possible work at all times.

I’ve just contributed to series of articles in the theme of New Year New You. What are the goals for this year?

I always work hard in my counseling business and in the Mind Body Training Institute where I create courses for therapists with my colleague Juliet Austin. However, an ongoing goal for me is to try and have some good downtime in between the busy periods of my work life. I don’t believe in a work-life balance but I think, when you’re not working, it’s important to seriously relax!

Having just celebrated Valentine’s Day this week and, in a few words, what is your favourite romantic:

Destination: Spain
Food: Tapas
Gesture: Hugs
Date idea: A picnic on the beach

Isn’t it a relief to know that couples who have disagreements can still be called successful if you do it right?

Do you need relationship help?

If you need relationship help, contact Clinton Power + Associates for a FREE 15-minute phone inquiry call to discuss your situation and find out how we can help. Call us now on (02) 8968 9323 or book your free phone inquiry online.