A Simple Therapy Podcast: Honest Conversations on Therapy, Mental Health, Healing and Self-Growth

With 20 years of clinical experience specializing in complex trauma treatment, Tawanna Woolfolk is a licensed clinical social worker with an MSW from Smith College School of Social Work, who opens up about her own healing journey and the power of resilience. Tawanna shares her inspiring journey of overcoming adversity, having grown up in the foster care system and triumphing over various forms of abuse and neglect. She shares her recent experience of reconnecting with her birth mother after years of separation. Prepare to be moved and inspired! As the director and CEO of Sacred Ground Institute, Tawanna passionately plants seeds of hope and faith in others, inspiring us to show up authentically and unapologetically.

🌟 **Key Takeaways:**

1️⃣ **Embracing Authenticity:** Tawanna encourages us to embrace our true selves, rejecting judgment and shame. She empowers us to show the f--- up and stand proudly in our authenticity.

2️⃣ **Dramatic Reunification Story:** Tawanna shares her powerful story of reunification with her birth mother after 38 years of separation. Her journey embodies strength, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.

3️⃣ **Healing Amidst Trauma:** We dive into the depths of healing, trauma, and finding inner strength. Tawanna's insights inspire us to navigate our healing journeys with grace and authenticity. Tune in to this compelling conversation and discover the transformative power of authenticity, resilience, and finding hope in the face of adversity.

Connect with Tawanna:

Www.sacredgroundinstitute.com

Instagram: @sacredgroundinstitute

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sacredgroundinstitute

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

Dive into a transformative conversation with LeNaya Smith Crawford, The Holistic Therapist™, where we explore the art of holistic healing and self-care for therapists. LeNaya's profound insights include the practice of "learning to drink as we pour," a reminder that as therapists, we must nourish ourselves while nurturing others. Here's what we cover:

**Key Themes Explored:**

- **Holistic Healing Journey:** LeNaya shares her personal healing odyssey, emphasizing the role of yoga, spirituality, and self-care.

- **Self-Care Layers:** Discover the importance of nurturing every layer of your being - physical, mental, emotional, energetic, and spiritual.

- **Embodiment:** Explore the significance of tuning into your body and emotions, enhancing your therapeutic presence and effectiveness.

- **Fostering Connection:** LeNaya discusses the challenges therapists face in connecting with peers and the value of building a supportive, like-hearted community.

- **Practical Tips:** LeNaya shares insights on incorporating sound healing, breathwork, and holistic practices into your self-care routine.

- **Staying Inspired:** Gain wisdom for your therapist's journey, including the practice of "learning to drink as we pour," ensuring your own well-being amidst your healing work.

Connect with LeNaya:

Website: lenayasmithcrawford.com

Instagram: @lenayascrawford

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/303916775192785/

The Healers Retreat: https://www.lenayasmithcrawford.com/thehealersretreat

The Healers Circle: https://www.lenayasmithcrawford.com/the-healers-circle

The Holistic Therapist Academy: https://www.lenayasmithcrawford.com/theholistictherapist

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

Join me for a profoundly moving episode with Stephen Andrew, LCSW, LADC, CCS, a remarkable storyteller, trainer, therapist, and author. Stephen's journey is a testament to the power of heart-centered therapy and compassionate practice.

Stephen Andrew is not just a therapist; he's a compassionate guide on the path of healing. His work as a member of the International Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) and his extensive experience in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and trauma therapy have made him a renowned expert in the field.

In this episode, we explore the following themes:

1. Heart-Centered Therapy and Compassionate Practice:

Stephen shares the transformative power of changing people through the heart, not just the mind. In this discussion, we explore the core concepts of Motivational Interviewing and the art of compassionate helping.

2. Radical Acceptance and Compassion:

Stephen delves into the essence of compassion, emphasizing that it's not about fixing but gently engaging in a process. He discusses the importance of radical acceptance, shifting away from the deficit model, and creating attachment as a therapist.

3. Trauma Whisper and Empathy:

We unravel the concept of the "Trauma Whisper" - those protective beliefs that stem from trauma. Stephen shares strategies on how to respond to these whispers with empathy, guiding individuals towards their hopes and dreams.

4. Training Helpers and Self-Care:

Stephen imparts wisdom on training helpers, emphasizing their responsibility for the intervention, not the outcome. He discusses the importance of working from the heart, practicing compassion, and shares his insights on therapist support and self-care.

5. Creating Belonging through Community:

Stephen talks about the communities he has created, providing a sense of belonging. These communities become spaces where individuals can connect, share, and heal together.

Tune in and learn how to hear both the trauma whispers and the whispers of hopes and dreams, equipping you to guide your clients on their healing journey with empathy and understanding.

Connect with Stephen:

Website: www.hetimaine.org

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-in-compassion/id1530270339

Books:

Love in Action: https://www.amazon.com/Love-Action-Stephen-R-Andrew/dp/1088030513

Listening Deeply: https://www.amazon.com/Listening-Deeply-Stephen-R-Andrew/dp/1088113168

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Jodie Gale, MA, founder of The Psychosynthesis Centre for Therapists, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in private practice. Jodie's journey has seen her build not one but two thriving practices, one in London and the second in her current home base of Sydney, Australia.

Jodie is not just a therapist but a passionate advocate for helping therapists achieve private practice success through blogging. Our conversation begins with an exploration of psychosynthesis as a therapeutic approach and the pivotal role spirituality plays in Jodie's work.

Then, Jodie generously shares her blogging tips for therapists, which feels like we're getting a mini-course experience from her! Discover 13 powerful ways blogging can transform your private practice, helping it thrive and grow. She uncovers the invaluable benefits of blogging, from improving your Google ranking to ethical AI utilization. Jodie also explains why, in today's digital age, blogging remains as crucial as ever for therapists looking to make a lasting impact.

As a special treat, don't forget to check out our show notes for an exclusive discount code on Jodie's two blogging products. Tune in for a knowledge-packed episode that will empower you to elevate your private practice through the art of blogging.

Connect with Jodie:

Website: https://psychosynthesis.online/

https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/PsychosynthesisCntre?coupon=HEART25

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/psychosynthesis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodie.gale/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodielgale/

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

Welcome to another episode of The Heart-Centered Therapist Podcast! In this episode, we meet Cori White, LPC, couples therapist and founder of Our Whole Living Counseling. Cori is also the host of the podcast, From Intern to Entrepreneur, where she encourages counseling graduate students to start planning their private practice journey while still in grad school. Join us as we dive into a conversation about the importance of finding practical ways to build a successful therapy practice while maintaining a balanced life and financial stability. We talk about getting scrappy as a business owner, changing therapist identity, and what therapists need to pay attention to early in their career to avoid burnout. If you're a therapist or graduate student interested in private practice, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with Cori:

https://www.frominterntoentrepreneur.com/

https://www.ourwholeliving.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/frominterntoentrepreneur

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

Join me for a lively conversation with the multi-talented Gabrielle Juliano-Villani, a licensed clinical social worker, consultant, coach, entrepreneur, and educator.

After a pivotal moment of recognizing her own burnout in 2021, Gabrielle successfully sold her thriving group practice for a lifestyle of freedom and flexibility. Her new mission became educating others on the profound impact stress has on our daily lives.

In this episode, we dive into how Polyvagal Theory plays a crucial role in burnout prevention and recovery. She shares how this theory has helped her become more relaxed and stress-free, and how she has successfully applied it in both her professional and personal life.

Gabrielle unravels how this theory applies to therapists, whether they are solo practitioners or owners of group practices, and how it influences our intuition and our experiences with vicarious trauma. This episode is filled with practical tools and examples of understanding and managing burnout.

Get ready to discover transformative approaches that can truly change the way we navigate stress and find lasting well-being.

Connect with Gabrielle:

gabriellejulianovillani.com

instagram.com/gjvconsulting

tiktok.com/@gabriellejulianovillani

youtube.com/@gabriellejulianovillani

medicareconsultingfortherapists.com

GJVConsulting.Etsy.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellejulianovillani/

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

In this episode of the Heart-Centered Therapist podcast, we meet Jeanine Wolfe, LCSW. Jeanene is a solo private practice owner, podcaster, and the founder of Collab Oasis Clinical Consultation Groups. With over 30 years of experience as a social worker, Jeanene is passionate about supporting fellow therapists and normalizing the different aspects of therapy work that are often overlooked in grad school. She shares her insights on overcoming challenges such as imposter syndrome, overcoming stagnation in clinical skills, and navigating feelings of isolation in solo practice. She shares her insights on overcoming the challenges of imposter syndrome, stagnant clinical skills, and isolation in solo practice.

We delve into the personal impact that our work as therapists has on us, and the importance of authenticity and knowing when to self-disclose. Get ready to discover Jeanine's unique program, CollabOasis, which offers small-group experiences designed to provide therapists with the consultation and professional support they truly need.

If you're seeking to enrich your therapeutic journey and embrace a sense of community, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with Jeanene:

www.CollabOasis.com

Colleague Down the Hall Podcast: www.ColleagueDownTheHall.com/podcast

FB Group: www.facebook.com/groups/oasispcgt

YouTube: youtube.com/@collaboasis

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeanene-wolfe-lcsw-64042220a/

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

In this important episode, we have the privilege of meeting Jen Salk, a mom, wife, dog mom, and passionate mental health advocate. Jen fearlessly opens up about her childhood trauma and mental health journey, taking us on a profound exploration of healing and inspiration.

As she shares her personal experiences, Jen reveals how she found the right therapist, conquered her trauma, and now uses her story to uplift others. Her journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of therapy, leaving important takeaways for both therapists and clients.

Prepare to be moved and inspired by Jen's remarkable spirit as she sheds light on the life-changing impact of therapy. This episode is a must-listen for therapists seeking insight from the client's perspective, and for anyone looking to understand the profound healing potential that lies within us.

Connect with Jen:

https://jensalk.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jensalk/

https://www.facebook.com/jensalk

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

In this captivating episode, we have the privilege of diving deep into the world of trauma therapy with the esteemed guest, Laura Reagan, LCSW-C. As the host of Therapy Chat and Trauma Chat Podcasts, founder of Trauma Therapist Network, and a renowned trainer of trauma therapists worldwide, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our discussion.

During this enlightening interview, we explore crucial topics that resonate deeply with therapists who work with trauma. Here are the key highlights:

1. Therapist Self-Awareness in Trauma Work:

- Laura emphasizes the significance of cultivating self-awareness as therapists working with trauma. We delve into the importance of recognizing our own triggers, boundaries, and emotions to provide effective and compassionate support to our clients.

2. Exposure to Trauma in the Therapeutic Journey:

- Our conversation revolves around the inevitable exposure to trauma that therapists experience throughout their work. Laura shares insights on how to navigate and process the emotions and challenges that arise from being immersed in trauma stories.

3. Identifying Trauma beyond the Presenting Issue:

- Laura guides us on how to identify trauma even when it's not the client's primary presenting issue. We explore the subtle signs, underlying patterns, and therapeutic techniques to uncover and address trauma effectively, ultimately supporting our clients' healing journeys.

4. The Crucial Role of Trauma Training:

- Recognizing the significance of continuous professional development, we discuss the pivotal role of trauma training for therapists. Laura shares the transformative impact of trauma-focused education, including resources available through Trauma Therapist Network, empowering therapists to enhance their skills and approaches.

Join us for this captivating interview as we gain invaluable insights and practical guidance from Laura Reagan, LCSW-C, on the profound world of trauma therapy. Discover how therapist self-awareness, trauma identification, and trauma training can revolutionize your practice and empower your clients' healing process.

Connect with Laura:

Join Trauma Therapist Network: https://bit.ly/3NcZ2OD

https://traumatherapistnetwork.com

https://instagram.com/therapychatpod

https://instagram.com/batraumahealing

https://instagram.com/traumachatpod

https://facebook.com/therapychatpod

https://facebook.com/lauralcswc

https://facebook.com/traumatherapyconsulting

https://tiktok.com/@therapychatpod

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/

Jim LaPierre, LCSW, CCS, is the owner and director of Higher Ground Services in Brewer, Maine, and he's on a mission to support survivors in transforming their lives. As a recovery ally, LGBTQ+ ally, mental health therapist, and addictions counselor, Jim brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his work. Jim is not only a therapist but also a teacher, a clinical supervisor, and a writer. He's the creator of thebesttherapy.org, offering home study programs for healers and helpers, and the cofounder of Sobernow.com, an online addiction recovery program that's completely free.

In this episode, Jim dives deep into the topic of overcoming imposter syndrome, revealing that it's more about identity and unhealed wounds than the actual job itself. He vulnerably shares his own experiences as a wounded healer, demonstrating how he uses his struggles and mistakes to open doors of healing for others. We explore important themes like self-care, burnout, anxiety, and the transformative power of self-acceptance.

Jim teaches us that our effectiveness as healers and helpers is intimately connected to our own well-being. Join us as Jim imparts his wisdom, empowering you to transform your own journey while continuing to be a beacon of hope and healing for those you serve.

Connect with Jim:

thebesttherapy.org

https://www.facebook.com/jim.lapierre

Book: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome for Healers and Helpers: https://www.amazon.com/Overcoming-Imposter-Syndrome-Healers-Helpers/dp/B0C7JJFW29/ref=sr_1_1?crid=BMOUL1773O9G&keywords=jim+lapierre+books&qid=1687479389&sprefix=Jim+la%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1

Book: The Best Therapy: A Guide for Wounded Healers: https://www.amazon.com/best-therapy-guide-wounded-healers/dp/1654205311/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=smzGy&content-id=amzn1.sym.ed85217c-14c9-4aa0-b248-e47393e2ce12&pf_rd_p=ed85217c-14c9-4aa0-b248-e47393e2ce12&pf_rd_r=133-2498720-5537725&pd_rd_wg=6FrfT&pd_rd_r=52f4d612-07ab-477d-b5e6-7848fc9662e6&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk

Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167

Connect with Sindee on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/

Shop Mental Health Threads:

https://mentalhealththreads.com/