Rethinking Personality Assessments: Shannon Sauer-Zavala on Scientific Validity, Commercial Myths and Mental Health Treatment, Anxiety, Depression and BPD

Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama

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In this enlightening episode of Advancing With Amy / Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama, we are joined by Shannon Sauer-Zavala, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and renowned expert on personality change. Shannon shares her groundbreaking work as a researcher at the University of Kentucky, where she tests innovative interventions aimed at alleviating common mental health conditions through the lens of personality change.

Throughout the conversation, Shannon addresses the inefficacies of popular commercial personality tests, such as the Myers-Briggs, and introduces us to scientifically-validated tools that offer a more accurate picture of personality traits. She delves into her work on developing new, more efficient treatments for conditions like anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder, making mental health care more accessible and effective.

Shannon also opens up about her own transformative journey—how she went from an underperforming high school student to a successful academic. She highlights how intentional personality change through consistent action and reinforcement can alter one's future for the better. Her TEDx Talk on this very subject serves as an inspirational anchor, encouraging listeners not to let personality tests dictate their potential.

This episode is filled with practical insights and hopeful messages, aiming to empower you to take control of your mental health and personal growth. Whether you're a mental health professional, someone experiencing anxiety or depression, or simply curious about the science of personality, you’ll find valuable takeaways here.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that challenges preconceived notions about personality and mental health, and learn how you, too, can embrace positive change in your life.

Find Shannon Sauer-Zavala online:

• Website: https://www.personality-compass.com/
• X: https://x.com/SauerZavala
• Instagram: @Self.Made.Personality
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sauer-zavala/

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