⚠️ Content Note: This episode includes discussion of suicide and suicide loss. Please take care while listening.
What happens when a confident communicator suddenly loses her voice?
In this deeply moving conversation, Serena Low sits down with psychotherapist, author, and communication expert Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva (“Dr. T”) to explore the life-changing experience that shaped her work: immigrating to the United States at 14 without knowing English and finding herself unable to express herself.
Together, they unpack the complexities of communication, grief, cultural identity, boundaries, and self-advocacy. Drawing from over a decade of clinical experience in trauma, grief, couples therapy, and immigration mental health, Dr. Patricia shares practical tools and profound insights that can help Quiet Warriors communicate more effectively, navigate difficult emotions, and honour their own needs without guilt.
If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, struggled to speak up, or carried grief that others couldn't fully comprehend, this conversation offers wisdom, compassion, and hope.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
- Why communication breakdowns often happen even when both people have good intentions
- The Intention–Action–Perception (IAP) model and how it can transform your relationships
- A simple communication technique called the "Preamble" that reduces conflict and misunderstanding
- How immigration, culture, and identity influence the way we communicate
- The difference between healthy boundaries and emotional walls
- Why reciprocity matters in relationships and leadership
- What makes suicide grief uniquely challenging
- Practical ways to support someone who is grieving
- How to create "memories in your pocket" to navigate difficult moments of loss
- Why putting yourself on equal footing with others is an act of self-respect, not selfishness
Key Takeaways for Quiet Warriors
- Your silence is not weakness. Speaking thoughtfully and intentionally is a strength.
- Communication isn't just about what you say—it's about how your message is perceived.
- You cannot force someone to receive a message they aren't ready to hear.
- Healthy boundaries protect your wellbeing and strengthen your relationships.
- Grief doesn't follow a timetable, and healing cannot be rushed.
- Putting yourself at the same level as others creates more sustainable relationships and leadership.
About Dr. Patricia Timerman
Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva is a licensed psychotherapist, author, and founder of Advocate to Create. She holds a PhD in Mental Health and specialises in grief, trauma, couples therapy, and suicide loss support. Her work is informed by both extensive clinical experience and her own immigration journey, bringing a culturally sensitive perspective to mental health and communication.
Connect with Dr. Patricia Timerman
Instagram, LinkedIn & Facebook: @AdvocateToCreate
Book: Why Are We Fighting? Actionable Strategies for Effective Communication (available in print, eBook, and audiobook formats)
www.Advocate2Create.com
www.Advocate2Create.Teachable.com
P: (305) 204-7764
E: patricia@advocate2create.com
No More - Together we can end domestic violence and sexual assault
www.nomore.org
No More Tears
nomoretearsusa.org
Resources for Quiet Achievers
Download the Leadership Visibility and Influence for Introverts mini-course for practical strategies to lead with confidence while staying true to yourself.
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Crisis Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide, please seek support immediately.
Australia: Lifeline 13 11 14 (Call/text/chat, available 24/7)
United States: 988 Lifeline (Call/text/chat, available 24/7)
Work with Serena Low at serenalow.com.au.
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This episode was edited by Aura House Productions
