Professional development is an important part of my work. The opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, learn from specialists in the field and reflect on how new knowledge can enhance my practice is something I value enormously. This conference offers a particularly exciting opportunity to do exactly that.
A world of expertise in trauma, mental health and wellbeing
Transform Trauma Oxford 2026 brings together clinicians, researchers, therapists, educators and wellbeing professionals from around the world for four days of learning and discussion. This year’s theme is “Science, Spirit and the Body: The Synthesis of Healing”, exploring the relationship between modern science, embodied practice and different understandings of healing.
The programme features more than 100 speakers and 60+ sessions, with opportunities to explore subjects including trauma, neuroscience, mental health, wellbeing, relationships and embodied approaches to healing. Online attendance means I’ll be able to access the programme remotely while still taking part in the wider learning experience.
Among the speakers are some particularly influential names in the field, including Gabor Maté, Bessel van der Kolk and Richard Schwartz, alongside many other clinicians, researchers and practitioners.
Learning from leading voices
I’m especially interested in hearing from Gabor Maté, whose work has explored the relationship between trauma, stress, addiction, illness and the wider social and emotional environments in which people live.
I’m also looking forward to learning from Bessel van der Kolk, whose work has been hugely influential in increasing awareness of the ways trauma can affect both mind and body. His continuing contribution to the field includes exploring trauma, neuroscience and approaches that recognise the importance of the body in recovery.
Another speaker I’m keen to learn from is Richard Schwartz, whose Internal Family Systems approach has become an influential way of thinking about the different parts of ourselves and the impact of internal conflict and trauma. His work is particularly relevant to wider conversations about self-understanding, compassion and healing.
What excites me most is the breadth of perspectives. Trauma and mental health are complex subjects, and there is rarely a single approach or explanation that can capture everyone’s experience. Being exposed to different research, therapeutic models and professional perspectives can help us continue to question, reflect and develop.
Bringing learning back into my work
For me, professional development is most valuable when it translates into thoughtful improvements in practice.
I’m looking forward to taking time to absorb new ideas, consider how they relate to my existing knowledge and reflect on what might be useful in my work with clients.
Of course, attending a conference doesn’t mean that every idea or approach is automatically right for every person. Good professional practice involves critical thinking, reflection and considering how evidence, individual circumstances and therapeutic relationships come together.
That is one of the reasons I’m particularly looking forward to this event. It is an opportunity not simply to learn more, but to think more deeply about the work I do.
7 days and counting…
With the conference beginning on 14 September, it is now just a week to go.
I’m looking forward to four days of learning from leading experts, discovering new perspectives and continuing to develop my knowledge in trauma, mental health and wellbeing.
Most importantly, I’m looking forward to taking that learning forward and considering how it can contribute positively to the people I support.
A week to go — let the learning begin!
