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New Interview: Ivan Tyrrell on the Origins and Future of the Human Givens Approach
We’re delighted to share a brand new two-part video interview featuring Ivan Tyrrell, co-founder of the Human Givens approach, in conversation with Human Givens therapist Laurie Castelli-Gair.
Whether you’re new to Human Givens or have been following the approach for years, this is a rare opportunity to hear Ivan speak at length and in depth about how this transformative framework came to be, what makes it different, and where it’s headed next.
Part 1: The story behind the approach
In the first part of the conversation, Ivan shares his personal journey into psychology and mental health, including how his collaboration with Joe Griffin led to the development of a solution-focused, evidence-based therapeutic model that has helped countless people move forward with their lives.
The discussion covers the core ideas that make Human Givens distinctive – the nine innate human needs and resources, the brain as a pattern-matching organ, the APET model, the role of REM sleep and dreaming in emotional health, and why emotional arousal makes us vulnerable. Ivan also explores the practical applications of the approach in therapy, workplaces, education, and healthcare, and shares a real-life trauma recovery case study that illustrates just how fast and effective Human Givens can be.
Part 2: Consciousness, reality, and what it means to be human
The second part of the conversation goes deeper – into the philosophical and psychological foundations of the Human Givens framework. Ivan and Laurie explore consciousness, the nature of reality, human evolution, and the concept of the “commanding self.” Ivan also discusses key ideas from The Godhead: The Brain’s Big Bang, co-written with Joe Griffin, and reflects on the influence of Idries Shah on Human Givens thinking.
Far from abstract philosophy, these ideas have direct relevance to mental health and to how we understand ourselves and our experience of the world.
Why now?
With anxiety, depression, and stress continuing to rise worldwide, understanding what actually works in mental health has never felt more urgent. This interview offers both the big picture and the practical detail – making it valuable whether you’re someone looking for help, a professional exploring new approaches, or simply curious about the human mind.