In episode one of the Movie Health Podcast, we talk to Kathryn Guestre Director of KG Creative Therapy who provides mental health counselling and Movie Therapy.
KG Creative Therapy is a partner of Movie Health, helping us develop services that use the power of movies for mental health.
We learn about Kathryn’s favourite movie, “Into the Wild”, connectedness and tips for mental health.
Kathryn Guestre
Kathryn specialises in mental health, psychosocial well-being, therapy and mentoring, bringing her years of social work experience and 15 years of personal experience on her unique spiritual journey. Kathyrn has worked in disability and mental health for over half a decade and has volunteering experience in the humanitarian and creative arts sectors.
Through a person-centred, strengths-based and trauma-informed way, Kathryn enjoys creatively collaborating with the people she works with. Kathryn’s support includes communication strategies, mentoring, life purpose, mental health counselling and psychoeducation.
Kathryn has worked with people of all backgrounds, life histories and various presenting issues, including life stressors, self-esteem, conflict (inner and relational), adjustments/transition, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, CFS and PTSD. I also have my own lived experience of Anxiety, trauma and wounding, which has made Kathryn an advocate of a compassionate, soulful & authentic life.
Kathryn also loves movies…
Kathryn’s Favourite Movie
Into the Wild 2007 | R | 2h 28m
- Director – Sean Penn
- Writer – Sean Penn (screenplay), Jon Krakauer (book)
- Stars – Emile Hirsch, William Hurt, Catherine Kenner, Vince Vaughn, Kristen Stuart
After graduating from Emory University, top student and athlete Christopher McCandless abandons his possessions, gives his entire $24,000 savings account to charity and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. Along the way, Christopher encounters a series of characters that shape his life.
Movie Discussion
The movie “Into the Wild” has always inspired Kathryn as she identifies with the main character, Christopher McCandless. The character’s journey to seek answers to his life while surrendering to something bigger than himself speaks to the human experience of adventure, courage, and doing something outside the norm. The movie highlights several themes: loneliness, spirituality, connection, and transformation.
Kathryn resonates with a quote from the film, “Happiness is only real when shared,” emphasising the need for connection and growth through communicating and living with others. While Kathryn empathises with Christopher, she also gets drawn into other characters’ journeys, witnessing Christopher’s courage and desire to live authentically but unable to connect with him. The film emotionally affects Kathryn and appreciates other viewers in different ways.
“Happiness is only real when shared”
We talk about Movie Therapy
Movie or Cinema Therapy is a therapeutic tool widely used globally but has yet to be popular in Australia. It involves using films to build self-esteem, explore characters, and embark on personal growth through the cinematic experience. Movie Therapy can be used not just for individuals but also for couples, families, and groups. The therapy is detailed in the book “E-motion Picture Magic: A Movie Lover’s Guide to Healing and Transformation (link)” by Birgit Wolz. Movie Therapy is a valuable tool for increasing self-awareness and promoting overall growth, and the author hopes to raise awareness of it because people love films.
Tips for Mental Health
Kathryn emphasises the importance of not wholly withdrawing from people when feeling overwhelmed or struggling and instead being open and honest with trusted friends, family, or spouses.
Kathryn suggests we must allow ourselves to feel and process emotions without judgment or resistance. Society often emphasises the need to stay positive, but it’s crucial, to be honest and communicate our feelings with others.
Seeking therapy or professional help is a good option. Being compassionate towards ourselves throughout this process is also necessary. In summary, the tips include feeling emotions, being honest with ourselves and others, seeking therapy, and being compassionate towards ourselves.
KG Creative Therapy
KG Creative Therapy brings extensive experience to clients’ psychosocial health and well-being. KG Creatives Therapy supports transformation and healing to overcome life’s challenges by focusing on using imagery in movies in the therapeutic process. KG Creatives Therapy also provides generalist and individualised counselling in a person-centred, strengths-based and trauma-informed way.
You are welcome to contact Kathryn Guestre at KG Creative Therapy.
Learn more at KG Creative Therapy.
Direct contact details: email kathryn@kgcreativetherapy.com.au | phone 0413 513 807
Available by phone call or WhatsApp/SMS
