Beyond Theory

For this season of Beyond Theory, we want to dive deeper into the meaning behind our name by being more topic-focused and bringing you guests in a brand new format. We believe this will make for a more relatable and engaging experience, expanding the mental health conversation and adding more voices. The topics we will discuss this season prioritize self-care, hustle culture, spirituality in recovery, and so much more.

We often hear stories of recovery that can be both challenging and powerful. But is that the complete story?

Join host Dominic Lawson as he presents a new and unique way those stories are told. The journey starts from the beginning on Recovery Replay and shares a person's recovery journey from three different perspectives. There is a person in recovery, their support person, and lastly, a clinician that will provide commentary and proper context.

Debuts April 26th.

In this episode of the Beyond Theory Podcast, host Dominic Lawson interviews Dr. Patrick Carnes, a leading expert in the field of sex addiction treatment. Dr. Carnes, who has over 30 years of experience in addiction medicine, shares his insights on the complex nature of sex addiction, its impact on individuals and families, and the challenges faced in treating this often misunderstood disorder.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Carnes emphasizes that sex addiction is a widespread issue affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. He highlights the role of technology, particularly the internet and social media platforms like TikTok, in making sexually explicit content and interactions more accessible, thus contributing to the growth of the porn industry and the prevalence of sex addiction.

Dr. Carnes delves into the neuroscience of addiction, explaining how the brain craves novelty, stimulation, and feelings of accomplishment. He notes that high achievers are particularly vulnerable to developing addictions, as they constantly seek out challenging and absorbing activities. To achieve long-term sobriety, Dr. Carnes stresses the importance of channeling these desires into healthy pursuits and addressing underlying mental health issues.

The interview also touches on the significant barriers to understanding and treating sex addiction, including societal stigma and the persistent belief that addiction is a moral failing rather than a medical condition. Dr. Carnes emphasizes the crucial role of education in changing attitudes and fostering a more compassionate approach to addiction treatment.

Furthermore, Dr. Carnes highlights the far-reaching impact of sex addiction on families and loved ones, underscoring the importance of involving them in the recovery process. He discusses the complex interplay between trauma, mental health, and addiction, and advocates for a more open and honest dialogue about these issues within society.

As the conversation draws to a close, Dr. Carnes reflects on his legacy in the field of sex addiction treatment. He expresses hope that his work has shed light on this often taboo subject, providing a voice for those struggling with addiction and encouraging others to speak their truths, even in the face of adversity.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sex addiction is a complex and widespread disorder affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, not just adults.

2. Technology, especially the internet and social media, has made sexually explicit content more accessible, contributing to the rise of sex addiction and the growth of the porn industry.

3. The addicted brain craves novelty, stimulation, and feelings of accomplishment, making high achievers vulnerable to developing addictions.

4. Achieving long-term sobriety requires addressing underlying mental health issues and channeling addictive desires into healthy pursuits.

5. Societal stigma and the belief that addiction is a moral failing rather than a medical condition are significant barriers to understanding and treating sex addiction.

6. Education plays a crucial role in changing attitudes and fostering a more compassionate approach to addiction treatment.

7. Sex addiction profoundly impacts families and loved ones, highlighting the importance of involving them in the recovery process.

8. Trauma, mental health, and addiction are interconnected, emphasizing the need for a more open and honest dialogue about these issues within society.

9. Speaking openly and honestly about the realities of sex addiction is essential for raising awareness and providing support for those struggling with the disorder.

10. Dr. Patrick Carnes' work in the field of sex addiction treatment has provided a foundation for understanding and addressing this complex issue, offering hope and guidance for behavioral health professionals and those affected by addiction.

This episode of the Beyond Theory Podcast offers valuable insights for behavioral health professionals, shedding light on the complexities of sex addiction and the need for a more compassionate, informed approach to treatment. Dr. Patrick Carnes' expertise and dedication to the field serve as an inspiration for those working to support individuals and families affected by addiction.

Dr. Patrick Carnes is a Senior Fellow at Meadows Behavioral Healthcare. He has over 30 years of experience in the addiction field and is a leading voice in sex addiction. He is also the primary architect of the Gentle Path treatment program, which addresses sexual issues and contributing addictive disorders. Find out more about his work at meadowsbh.com/senior-fellows.

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, host Dominic Lawson interviews Dr. Richard Schwartz, the developer of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model of psychotherapy. Dr. Schwartz shares his journey of creating IFS, a revolutionary approach to understanding the mind and treating mental health issues like trauma and addiction.

Dr. Schwartz explains that he developed IFS after noticing that his family therapy clients struggled with issues like bulimia despite successful external family restructuring. Listening to them describe their inner "parts" that seemed to have autonomy led him to explore the inner system. He discovered that these parts, such as the "binging part" or the "critical part," were not what they seemed on the surface but were actually playing protective roles based on past traumas.

A key insight of IFS is that there are no inherently "bad" parts – only parts forced into extreme roles by the burdens of trauma. Manager parts, like inner critics, try to protect exiled wounded parts, while firefighter parts, like addictive behaviors, emerge in crises when exiles are triggered. However, all parts have inherent value. Dr. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of approaching these parts with curiosity and compassion, allowing them to reveal their true nature and unburden past traumas.

Central to the IFS model is the concept of the Self – not just an observer but an active, compassionate inner leader that knows how to heal. Accessing the Self allows the parts to unburden traumas and reclaim their natural states spontaneously. Dr. Schwartz explains that IFS therapy aims to help clients separate from and unblend with their parts to access the Self.

Throughout the interview, Dr. Schwartz shares examples of applying IFS to treat various mental health conditions, including trauma, addiction, and eating disorders. He also discusses the importance of staying curious and following where clients lead, even when it challenges existing paradigms, as this exploratory process enabled him to develop this transformative model.

The conversation also touches on the impact of cultural and intergenerational trauma, as well as the role of IFS in addressing issues like racism and patriarchy. Dr. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of unburdening both personal and legacy traumas to achieve true healing and transformation.

For those interested in learning more about IFS, Dr. Schwartz recommends his latest book, "No Bad Parts," as well as exploring resources available through the IFS Institute. He also shares his experience as a senior fellow at The Meadows, a premier treatment center that has incorporated IFS into their programs.

Key Takeaways:

1. IFS is a revolutionary approach to psychotherapy that understands the mind as a system of "parts" with different roles and functions, all of which have inherent value.

2. Parts that seem problematic, like inner critics or addictive behaviors, are actually playing protective roles based on past traumas and can be transformed through compassionate, curious engagement.

3. There are no inherently "bad" parts in IFS – only parts burdened by trauma. Managers like inner critics protect exiled wounded parts, while firefighters like addictive behaviors emerge in crises. (Keywords: trauma-informed therapy, addiction treatment, mental health recovery)

4. The Self is the core of the IFS model – a compassionate, healing inner leader that can be accessed by separating from and unblending with the parts.

5. IFS therapy aims to help clients access their Self and unburden their parts from past traumas, allowing them to reclaim their natural states of wholeness and wellbeing.

6. Cultural and intergenerational traumas, such as racism and patriarchy, can also be addressed through the IFS model by unburdening both personal and legacy burdens.

7. Staying curious and following the client's lead, even when it challenges existing paradigms, is essential for developing innovative and effective mental health treatments like IFS.

8. IFS has been successfully integrated into addiction and mental health treatment programs, such as those at The Meadows, offering a hopeful and empowering framework for recovery.

This episode offers valuable insights for mental health professionals and anyone interested in a deeper understanding of the mind, trauma, and healing. With its emphasis on compassion, curiosity, and the inherent wisdom of the Self, IFS provides a hopeful and empowering framework for personal growth and transformation.

Dr. Richard Schwartz is a systemic family therapist and an academic. Grounded in systems thinking, Dr. Schwartz developed Internal Family Systems (IFS) in response to clients' descriptions of various parts within themselves. Find out more about his work at ifs-institute.com.

In this episode of Beyond Theory, a podcast by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, host Dominic Lawson interviews Dr. Georgia Fourlas, Executive Director of Rio Retreat Center. Dr. Fourlas shares valuable insights into the center's approach to treating addiction and underlying trauma through intensive, specialized workshops.

Rio Retreat Center offers a unique treatment model focused on uncovering the roots of addiction and mental health issues. Their signature "Survivors" workshop is a five-day, group-based program that takes a deep dive into childhood trauma and family of origin issues contributing to adult challenges. By addressing these core problems, rather than just treating symptoms, the center aims to provide a foundation for lasting recovery.

Dr. Fourlas highlights the positive ripple effect of recovery on all aspects of life – relationships, work, finances, and overall wellbeing. As individuals experience these benefits, they become motivated to continue their healing journey. Rio Retreat Center's workshops serve as a powerful entry point for those hesitant about committing to long-term treatment, offering an intensive, transformative experience in just five days.

The center's approach emphasizes the importance of ongoing support in maintaining long-term sobriety. Workshops help address new issues that may arise in recovery before they escalate to crisis levels. This comprehensive, long-term perspective sets Rio Retreat Center apart in the field of addiction treatment.

For parents dealing with back-to-school fears and challenges, Dr. Fourlas advises addressing one's own unresolved trauma to avoid projecting anxiety onto children. By focusing on providing love and support, parents can promote their children's resilience and wellbeing.

Ultimately, Dr. Fourlas finds hope in the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit during difficult times. She believes that by coming together with compassion and kindness, we can overcome even the darkest of challenges.

Key Takeaways:

1. Addressing Core Issues: Rio Retreat Center's intensive workshops, like "Survivors," focus on uncovering and healing childhood trauma and family of origin issues that contribute to addiction and mental health challenges in adulthood.

2. Comprehensive Approach: By addressing root causes rather than just treating symptoms, Rio Retreat Center provides a foundation for lasting recovery and holistic healing.

3. Power of Intensive Workshops: The center's five-day, group-based workshops offer a transformative experience that can be a powerful entry point for those hesitant about committing to long-term treatment.

4. Maintaining Long-term Sobriety: Ongoing support is crucial for maintaining long-term sobriety. Rio Retreat Center's workshops help address new issues that may arise in recovery before they escalate.

5. Parenting and Trauma: Addressing one's own unresolved trauma is key for parents to avoid projecting anxiety onto children. Providing love and support promotes children's resilience and wellbeing.

6. Hope in Human Connection: Dr. Georgia Fourlas emphasizes the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming challenges and finding hope during difficult times.

7. Innovative Addiction Treatment: Rio Retreat Center offers an innovative approach to addiction recovery by combining intensive workshops, a focus on root causes, and ongoing support for lasting transformation.

Through this conversation, listeners gain valuable insights into Rio Retreat Center's innovative approach to addiction recovery and trauma healing. By addressing root causes, harnessing the power of intensive workshops, and emphasizing ongoing support, the center offers a pathway to lasting transformation for individuals and families.

Dr. Georgia Fourlas is the Clinical Director of Workshops for Rio Retreat Center, part of Meadows Behavioral Healthcare. She has worked in behavioral health for more than 20 years and has extensive experience working with adults and children as a crisis counselor, trauma therapist, and addictions therapist. Find out more about her work at rioretreatcenter.com.

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, Dr. Madelyn Rousku, a board-certified psychiatrist and Chief of Psychiatry at the Claudia Black Young Adult Center, shares her insights on treating mental health issues in young adults. Drawing from her experience at the Claudia Black Center, which is part of Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, Dr. Rousku discusses the challenges faced by Generation Z and the importance of vulnerability, courage, and genuine connection in the healing process.

Dr. Rousku emphasizes the significance of being honest and "no-nonsense" when working with young adult patients struggling with mental health concerns such as substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and issues related to sexuality and gender identity. She believes that young people can sense when someone is being genuine, which helps build trust and opens them up to receiving help.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Rousku highlights the courage it takes for her patients to be vulnerable and confront painful experiences from their past. She acknowledges that while this self-reflection is challenging, it is crucial for achieving lasting change. When addressing sensitive topics like sexuality and gender identity, Dr. Rousku adapts her approach to meet patients where they are emotionally, always striving for honesty while recognizing the individual nature of each person's journey.

The discussion also touches on the pressure young adults face in today's society, particularly on social media, to present a perfect and successful image. Dr. Rousku notes that this can hinder their ability to discover their authentic selves and find true fulfillment. She works with patients to help them focus on their own needs and values rather than external expectations.

Dr. Rousku also addresses the positive impact of increased mental health advocacy from celebrities, which helps to normalize mental health struggles and reduce stigma. She encourages young adults who are struggling to seek help, reminding them that there is always hope and a supportive community of mental health professionals ready to assist them.

Key Takeaways:

1. Honesty and genuine connection in mental health treatment: Dr. Madelyn Rousku emphasizes the importance of being "no-nonsense" and real when treating young adults with mental health issues, as it builds trust and encourages patients to open up.

2. Vulnerability and courage in the healing process: Young adult patients at the Claudia Black Center demonstrate remarkable courage when making themselves vulnerable and confronting painful experiences, which is essential for achieving lasting change in their mental health journey.

3. Navigating sexuality and gender identity challenges: Dr. Rousku adapts her approach to meet patients where they are emotionally when addressing sensitive topics like sexuality and gender identity, recognizing the unique nature of each person's journey while maintaining honesty.

4. Overcoming societal pressures and finding authenticity: Young adults face immense pressure, especially on social media, to present a perfect image, which can hinder their ability to discover their true selves and find fulfillment. Dr. Rousku helps patients focus on their own needs and values.

5. Celebrity advocacy and reducing mental health stigma: Increased mental health advocacy from celebrities helps normalize mental health struggles and reduces stigma, encouraging more young adults to seek help.

6. Seeking help and finding hope in mental health recovery: Dr. Rousku encourages young adults struggling with mental health issues to take the brave step of reaching out to someone they trust, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength and that there is always hope for recovery with the right support.

The conversation concludes with Dr. Rousku's advice for those dealing with mental health issues: take the brave step to reach out and talk to someone you trust. She emphasizes that seeking help is a sign of strength and that with the right support, young adults can overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

Dr. Madelyn Rousku is a board-certified psychiatrist and serves as chief of psychiatry at the Claudia Black Young Adult Center, part of Meadows Behavioral Healthcare. She specializes in treating young adults who are experiencing a wide range of psychiatric concerns from substance use, eating issues, and mood and anxiety disorders to autism, sexual and gender identity, and more. Find out more about her work at www.claudiablackcenter.com.

In this episode of the Beyond Theory Podcast, Victor Brick, co-founder of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation and CEO of Planet Fitness Growth Partners, shares his personal journey of losing his brother John to complications from schizophrenia. Victor's story highlights the devastating impact of serious mental illness and the limitations of conventional treatment approaches that rely heavily on medication, psychotherapy, and hospitalization.

Determined to honor his brother's legacy, Victor and his wife founded the John W. Brick Foundation to promote a paradigm shift in mental healthcare. The foundation advocates for integrating evidence-based lifestyle interventions such as exercise, nutrition, and mind-body practices alongside traditional treatments. This holistic approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their mental wellbeing.

A cornerstone of the foundation's work is the groundbreaking "Move Your Mental Health" report, which collates over 1,000 studies demonstrating the efficacy of physical activities like yoga, cardio, and strength training in supporting mental health. By making this research accessible, Victor aims to encourage healthcare professionals and individuals to incorporate lifestyle medicine into their mental health toolkits.

Victor emphasizes the importance of balancing self-care and professional healthcare in optimizing mental wellbeing. He shares his own daily practices, including Qigong, cold showers, breathwork, and infrared saunas, which provide "positive stress" to build resilience. Victor also highlights the critical role of connectivity and coping skills in preventing mental health issues, particularly in light of the isolation and loneliness exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Through initiatives like the "Never Alone" summit in collaboration with Deepak Chopra, Victor seeks to reduce stigma, foster community, and provide practical strategies for improving mental health. His vision is a world where integrative, person-centered, and evidence-based approaches are the norm in mental healthcare.

Key Takeaways:

1. Integrative Mental Healthcare: Combining conventional treatments like medication and therapy with evidence-based lifestyle interventions such as exercise, nutrition, and mind-body practices can enhance mental health outcomes.

2. Empowering Self-Care: Encouraging individuals to take an active role in their mental wellbeing through self-care practices and education can complement professional treatment and improve resilience.

3. Evidence-Based Lifestyle Medicine: The "Move Your Mental Health" report demonstrates the efficacy of physical activities in supporting mental health, highlighting the importance of incorporating lifestyle medicine into mental health treatment plans.

4. Positive Stress for Resilience: Engaging in practices that provide "positive stress," such as exercise, cold showers, breathwork, and infrared saunas, can help build mental and emotional resilience.

5. Connectivity and Coping Skills: Fostering social connections and developing coping skills are critical factors in preventing mental health issues and promoting wellbeing, particularly during challenging times like the Covid-19 pandemic.

6. Reducing Mental Health Stigma: Initiatives like the "Never Alone" summit aim to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness by sharing diverse stories and providing practical strategies for improving mental health.

7. Advocating for Change in Mental Healthcare: Victor Brick's personal story and the work of the John W. Brick Foundation serve as a powerful call to action for behavioral health professionals to adopt more holistic, person-centered, and evidence-based approaches in mental healthcare.

This thought-provoking interview serves as a powerful call to action for behavioral health professionals and anyone committed to advancing mental wellbeing. Victor's insights challenge us to expand our understanding of what truly promotes resilience and reminds us that even in the darkest times, we are never alone.

Victor Brick is the co-founder of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation and CEO of Planet Fitness Growth Partners, LLC. Find out more, including details of the report we discussed, at johnwbrickfoundation.org.

In this episode of Beyond Theory, Dominic Lawson interviews Mark Baumgartner, Executive Director of Virtual Intensive Outpatient Services at The Meadows Behavioral Healthcare. Baumgartner shares valuable insights into the MBH Connect program, which provides accessible, high-quality virtual care for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Baumgartner emphasizes the importance of connection in the healing and recovery process, noting that meaningful vulnerability and authentic engagement can occur even in a virtual setting. He highlights the power of eye contact in fostering intimacy and discusses how shame, often stemming from subtle traumas, can create barriers to connection and authenticity.

The 8-week virtual IOP curriculum at MBH Connect covers essential topics such as boundaries, trauma, addiction, and recovery management. Patients can begin at any point in the cycle and receive comprehensive care that addresses underlying issues. Baumgartner also discusses the expansion of family support within the virtual IOP, including support groups, therapy, and coaching.

Drawing from his extensive experience in the field, Baumgartner stresses the significance of aspiring clinicians doing their own inner work to develop self-awareness and connect with their authentic selves. He recommends Pia Mellody's books as valuable resources aligned with The Meadows' approach to addiction treatment and trauma healing.

Key Takeaways:

1. Connection is vital for healing and recovery in addiction treatment, whether in-person or through virtual intensive outpatient programs (IOP) like MBH Connect.

2. Virtual IOP at The Meadows fosters meaningful vulnerability and authentic engagement between patients and therapists, despite the online format.

3. Subtle traumas can lead to internalized shame, creating barriers to authenticity and connection. Addressing these traumas is crucial in comprehensive addiction treatment.

4. Eye contact is a powerful form of intimacy and connection. Awareness of eye contact patterns can provide insights into one's emotional state and shame.

5. The Meadows' MBH Connect program offers an 8-week curriculum covering boundaries, trauma, addiction, and recovery management, allowing patients to start at any point.

6. Family support, including therapy, coaching, and support groups, is an essential component of virtual IOP at The Meadows.

7. Aspiring clinicians in behavioral health should focus on self-awareness and connecting with their authentic selves to provide effective addiction treatment.

8. Pia Mellody's books align with The Meadows' approach and serve as valuable resources for understanding trauma and addiction treatment.

This episode provides a fascinating look at the adaptation of intensive outpatient treatment to a virtual format, highlighting the potential for online platforms to increase access to transformative, connection-based care. Baumgartner's insights underscore the importance of addressing shame, trauma, and authenticity in the pursuit of lasting recovery and mental well-being.

Mark Baumgartner is the Executive Director of Executive Director of MBH Connect at Meadows Behavioral Healthcare. His clinical and leadership career spans more than three decades and he has a broad range of experience on the substance use disorder and mental health continuum. Find out more about his work at https://themeadowsiop.com/locations/virtual-iop/.

In this episode of Beyond Theory, Dr. David Hanscomb, a renowned orthopedic spine surgeon, shares his personal journey with chronic pain and offers a comprehensive approach to healing. Drawing from his own experience and extensive research, Dr. Hanscomb reveals that chronic pain is not merely a physical problem but a complex issue involving the mind-body connection, inflammation, and the nervous system's response to threats.

Dr. Hanscomb emphasizes the role of negative thoughts and emotions in fueling chronic pain, noting that repressed feelings can be even more damaging than expressed ones. He discusses how the uncertainty and isolation brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated chronic pain by activating people's nervous systems and disrupting social connections crucial for co-regulation and a sense of safety.

To break free from the grip of chronic pain, Dr. Hanscomb presents a holistic approach that addresses the input (thoughts and environment), calms the nervous system directly, and redirects output through engaging in positive activities. He highlights the importance of expressive writing as a tool for gaining awareness and separation from negative thoughts, as well as the role of active meditation, good sleep hygiene, and avoiding complaining in the healing process.

Through his innovative DOC (Direct your Own Care) journey program, Dr. Hanscomb has helped numerous patients achieve a pain-free life by rewiring their brains through neuroplasticity. He emphasizes the crucial role of processing anger and offers a step-by-step guide to overcoming chronic pain, ultimately enabling individuals to move from merely surviving to thriving.

Key Takeaways:

1. Chronic pain is a complex issue involving the mind-body connection, inflammation, and the nervous system's response to threats.

2. Negative thoughts and emotions, especially when repressed, can fuel chronic pain by impacting the nervous system in the same way as physical threats.

3. The uncertainty and isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated chronic pain by activating people's nervous systems and disrupting social connections.

4. To solve chronic pain, a holistic approach is needed, addressing input (thoughts and environment), calming the nervous system, and redirecting output through positive activities.

5. Expressive writing is a powerful tool for gaining awareness and separation from negative thoughts, helping to break the cycle of chronic pain.

6. Engaging in active meditation, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and avoiding complaining are essential components of the healing process.

7. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to be rewired, enabling individuals to overcome chronic pain and achieve a pain-free life.

8. Processing anger is a crucial step in solving chronic pain, as it helps to regulate the nervous system and promote healing.

9. The DOC (Direct your Own Care) journey program provides a step-by-step guide to overcoming chronic pain and reclaiming life.

10. By understanding the mind-body connection and embracing a comprehensive approach to healing, individuals can move from surviving to thriving.

This episode offers hope and practical strategies for those struggling with chronic pain, as well as valuable insights for behavioral health professionals seeking to support their clients' recovery. By understanding the mind-body connection and embracing a comprehensive approach to healing, individuals can reclaim their lives and unlock their full potential.

Dr. Hanscom is an orthopedic complex spinal deformity surgeon based in Seattle, Washington, for more than three decades. Today, he teaches people how to break loose from the grip of chronic mental and physical pain – with and without surgery. Find out more at backincontrol.com.