Episode Details

What if the way we respond to our bodies could make a difference to recovery? 

In this episode of The Choice Space, Dr Lee David speaks with clinical psychologist and author Dr Michelle Gregory about functional neurological disorder (FND), drawing on Michelle’s clinical expertise and her own experience of developing and recovering from the condition.

FND can cause a wide range of symptoms, from changes in movement and speech to seizures, pain and fatigue. Michelle shares her experience of suddenly developing symptoms she couldn’t explain, and why having them taken seriously and understanding what was happening made such a difference.

The conversation looks at the complex relationship between our brains, bodies and the world around us. Stress, attention, past experiences, neurodivergence and the demands we place on ourselves can all play a part. Sometimes we may also become used to pushing through tiredness, discomfort or other signals from our bodies without really noticing what we need.

Rather than fighting symptoms or searching for one simple explanation, becoming curious about patterns can offer another way forward. This might include noticing what makes symptoms better or worse, recognising when different pressures are building up and finding a balance between doing too much and too little.

There is real hope in the possibility of recovery from FND. Gradually building confidence, finding greater flexibility and learning to trust ourselves can all play a part – alongside seeing the body as an ally, rather than something working against us.

Key moments

00:45 Michelle’s journey with FND
04:17 The uncertainty of unexplained symptoms
07:46 How brain and body communicate
10:24 Why it matters to feel believed and understood
13:18 What can make us vulnerable to FND?
18:34 The Choice Pause – meeting your body with compassion
20:58 Are we listening to our needs?
26:54 Understanding patterns and symptoms
31:57 Finding an individual way forward
35:29 The importance of balance
36:40 Supporting someone with FND
40:07 Seeing your body as an ally

About the guest

Dr Michelle Gregory is a clinical psychologist specialising in supporting adults and young people living with long-term health conditions, including functional neurological disorder (FND) and long Covid. She is the author of Coping with Functional Neurological Disorder: Listening to your Body, Finding Balance and Moving towards Recovery.

Drawing on both clinical and lived experience, Michelle combines evidence-based psychological approaches with warmth and compassion to help people better understand their symptoms, rebuild confidence and support recovery. She also provides affirming support for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

You can connect with Michelle via her website, on Instagram or follow her Patreon page for evidence-based insights about FND.

About the host

Dr Lee David is a GP, CBT therapist and author specialising in mental health and wellbeing. Lee has written many books on CBT, mindfulness and teen wellbeing,