Overcoming Trauma: A Journey Towards
Recovery and Wellbeing with Dr Andrew Smith
1 Discussion workshop. 20 places Available. Approx 120 Minutes in length
22nd October - 7 pm - Lossiemouth Town Hall

Dr Andrew Smith is a psychotherapist, educator, author, artist and musician with over twenty years' experience working with people affected by trauma, addiction, mental health difficulties, and relationship challenges.
He holds a Doctorate in Psychotherapy and has taught nationally and internationally on trauma, recovery, attachment, addiction, and therapeutic practice. His work integrates Gestalt psychotherapy, developmental trauma, neuroscience and contemplative practice, with a strong emphasis on helping people move beyond symptom management towards meaningful, connected and creative lives.
Andrew has worked across the NHS, independent practice, higher education and social care, supporting adults with complex trauma and supervising and training practitioners from a wide range of professional backgrounds. Alongside his clinical work, he is developing the Trauma Recovery and Connection Programme, an integrative model that brings together psychotherapy, community, creativity and purposeful living.
An accomplished portrait artist and classically trained harpist, Andrew has a longstanding interest in the role of the creative arts in health and wellbeing. He believes that creativity is not simply therapeutic, but a fundamental human capacity that supports healing, resilience, self-expression and connection. His workshops often explore how music, visual art and other creative practices can help people recover from trauma and build richer, more fulfilling lives.
Known for his engaging and down-to-earth teaching style, Andrew combines current research with clinical experience and personal insight, creating workshops that are practical, thought-provoking and immediately applicable to both professional practice and everyday life.
Overcoming Trauma: A Journey Towards Recovery and Wellbeing
Welcome
- Introductions
- Creating a safe and supportive space
- What we hope to achieve
Understanding Trauma
- What is trauma?
- How trauma affects the brain, body and relationships
- Common survival responses
The Lasting Impact of Trauma
- Emotional wellbeing
- Physical health
- Relationships and connection
- Self-esteem, shame and identity
Pathways to Recovery
- Understanding the recovery journey
- Safety, regulation and resilience
- The importance of healthy relationships and community
- Finding hope beyond survival
Creativity and Wellbeing
- The healing potential of art, music and creativity
- Creativity as a tool for expression, regulation and connection
Practical Strategies for Everyday Recovery
- Mindfulness and grounding
- Self-care and self-compassion
- Building healthy routines
- Small changes that create lasting growth
Questions, Reflection and Resources
- Discussion
- Key learning points
- Further support and next steps
Key message: Recovery is possible. Trauma may shape our lives, but it does not have to define our future. Healing is not simply about reducing distress, but about rediscovering connection, purpose, creativity and the capacity to thrive.
7.00 pm Thursday, 22nd October. Lossiemouth Town Hall, Lossiemouth