Burning the Couch

Therapy Is Political: Burning the Illusion of Neutrality

Welcome to Burning the Couch: the podcast for helpers, healers, and disruptors ready to challenge traditional mental health systems.

In this episode, we lay the foundation for everything this season will explore by confronting one of the biggest myths in the mental health field: that therapy is neutral or apolitical. Spoiler alert. It’s not. It never has been.

We take you through:

• The colonial and white supremacist roots of modern psychology and psychiatry.
• How Western mental health systems have historically aligned with capitalism, patriarchy, and social control; not healing.
• The lie of therapeutic neutrality, and why refusing to acknowledge systemic harm is itself a political stance.
• Real-world examples of how political forces shape everything from access to care to diagnoses to how we respond to trauma.
• Why it’s time to unlearn the idea that our role as helpers is to “stay out of politics” and start recognizing that real healing requires dismantling the systems that harm.

This isn’t about bringing partisan politics into the therapy room. It’s about naming the realities that impact our clients every day: racism, poverty, anti-trans legislation, the carceral system, medical gatekeeping, and so much more. If you’re a therapist, coach, educator, physician, advocate or just someone passionate about mental health justice this episode will resonate deeply.

We’re here to burn the couch and co-create something rooted in justice, collective care, and liberation.

Want to Learn More?

Recommended readings from this episode:

• Decolonizing Therapy by Dr. Jennifer Mullan
• The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon
• Mad World: The Politics of Mental Health by Micha Frazer-Carroll
• Liberation Psychology works by Ignacio Martín-Baró

Join us as we question everything we were taught and reimagine what healing could be. Subscribe, share, and stay tuned.

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

Join us as we delve into the complex intersection of therapy, activism, and the ongoing siege on Palestine with our guest, Tamara Sharifov, LCSW. 

With over a decade of experience spanning from clinical psychology, humanitarian work, academia, conflict resolution, and advocacy. Tamara brings a unique perspective to the table. Through our discussion, we explore the therapist's role in navigating humanitarian crises and global conflict, the integration of personal values, and the downsides of maintaining a neutral stance. Tamara shares insights from her diverse background, touching on trauma-informed care, social justice in therapy, and the disappointing lack of support from professional organizations during moments of injustice. Join the conversation as we discuss the importance of acknowledging human rights, challenging traditional narratives, and the personal and professional implications of taking a stance. Whether you're a therapist, activist, peacebuilder, or interested in further knowledge regarding the current crisis in Palestine, this episode offers valuable insights into the nuanced landscape of therapeutic practice in the face of conflict.

Notes: 

Tamara holds both a Masters in Clinical Social Work, from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, and a Second Masters degree in Conflict Management and Resolution from the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, ar the University of San Diego - With her thesis titled "For the Fate of Palestine - A Case Against Realist Theory in Global Diplomacy. Which critiqued the usage of current government-to-Government negotiation techniques within the Israeli-Palestinian context.

Resources to get started:

News Outlets and Think Tanks

Democracy Now

 Al Jazeera

Foreign Affairs

The Middle East Institute

United States Institute of Peace

Books

 100 Year War - Rashid Khalidi

 Politics of Disposition - Edward W. Said

 On Palestine - Ilan Pappe & Noam Chomsky

 Rethinking the Holocaust - Yehuda Bauer

 Year Zero of the Arab-Israeli Conflict 1929 - Hillel Cohen

Palestine... Its Something Colonial - Hatem Bazian

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

We shine a spotlight on the vital topic of gender-affirming mental health care. Join us as we explore the unique challenges faced by individuals navigating gender identity and delve into the crucial role mental health support plays in their journey toward self-acceptance and well-being. We discuss the importance of providing comprehensive, inclusive, and affirming mental health care that addresses the specific needs of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. We explore the intersections of gender identity, mental health, and societal factors, shedding light on the barriers and discrimination often faced by this community. At Burning the Couch, we strive to promote inclusivity, acceptance, and support for all individuals navigating their gender identity, fostering a society that embraces the diversity of the human experience.

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

In this episode, we embark on a transformative journey into the realm of psychedelic-assisted therapy with special guest, Molly Zive, LCSW. Join us as we explore the intersection of science, spirituality, and healing, uncovering the potential of psychedelics to facilitate profound personal transformation. Molly guides us through the intricacies of psychedelic-assisted therapy, providing deep insights into its therapeutic applications and benefits. We discuss the importance of intention, set, and setting in creating a conducive environment for therapeutic breakthroughs. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of psychedelic-assisted therapy and its potential to catalyze profound healing and personal growth.

Resources:

https://therapywithmolly.com/
@centerofintuition
@mollyzivetherapy

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

The world of play therapy! Play therapy is a transformative therapeutic approach that extends its healing power to individuals of all ages. Through insightful discussions and inspiring anecdotes, we uncover how play therapy transcends age barriers, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to engage in therapeutic play.  Whether you're a parent, therapist, or simply curious about the profound impact of play therapy, this episode celebrates the universal importance of play, imagination, and creativity in the therapeutic process.

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

This captivating episode dives into the world of ecotherapy with Vi O'Connor, LMFT. Discover the transformative power of connecting with nature as Vi shares her expertise and insights on how ecotherapy can enhance mental health and well-being. Vi delves into the therapeutic techniques and approaches used in ecotherapy, highlighting the integration of nature-based activities, mindfulness, and ecological awareness to foster personal growth and healing. Whether you're seeking solace in nature, exploring eco-conscious lifestyles, or curious about the intersection of mental health and environmentalism, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. 

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

Join us as we delve into the intricate world of eating disorders with the esteemed guest, Dr. Marianne Miller, LMFT. With her extensive experience and expertise, Dr. Miller provides invaluable insights and guidance on this often misunderstood mental health issue. Together, we shed light on the complexities surrounding eating disorders, exploring the psychological, emotional, and societal factors that contribute to their development and persistence. Dr. Miller shares her compassionate approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of addressing both the mind and body in the recovery process.

Resources:
www.drmariannemiller.com
@drmariannemiller

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the world of opportunities beyond clinical practice for helpers. Join us as we uncover the various pathways available to psychotherapy professionals, including teaching, supervision, research, and more. Dr. Panicha and Micaela share their personal journeys, shedding light on the diverse roles and responsibilities they have embraced outside of traditional therapy settings. Join us on this inspiring episode as we venture beyond therapy, exploring the diverse opportunities available. Discover how teaching, supervision, research, and other pathways can expand your impact, influence, and contribution to the field.

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

In this episode, we delve into the world of neurodiversity and celebrate the diverse minds that make up our community. We uncover the beauty of neurodiversity and challenge traditional notions of what is considered "normal."  We explore the concept of neurodiversity as a social movement, advocating for the acceptance and inclusion of all minds, regardless of their neurological differences. Our discussions delve into the importance of creating supportive environments that celebrate neurodiversity, highlighting the transformative power of embracing different ways of thinking and perceiving the world. We also address the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals, including navigating social interactions, accessing appropriate support and accommodations, and combating stigma. Join Dr. Panicha and Micaela as they provide insights into fostering understanding and empathy, promoting neurodiverse-friendly practices, and creating inclusive spaces for all.

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.

Join hosts Dr. Panicha McGuire and Micaela Magazzu-Alaman as they sit down with esteemed guest Dr. Jason Linder, a highly experienced and EMDR-certified bilingual therapist, for an enlightening discussion on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of EMDR as a therapeutic approach for processing and healing trauma. Dr. Linder shares his extensive knowledge and expertise, shedding light on the principles and techniques behind EMDR and its effectiveness in facilitating trauma recovery.

Our hosts and guest delve into the importance of establishing a safe therapeutic environment when utilizing EMDR and discuss the role of the therapist in guiding the healing process. They address common misconceptions and concerns surrounding EMDR and provide insights into the evidence-based research supporting its effectiveness.

Tune in to this captivating episode as Dr. Panicha McGuire, Micaela Magazzu-Alaman, and Dr. Jason Linder demystify EMDR, offering a comprehensive understanding of this powerful therapeutic modality and its potential to transform lives affected by trauma.

Resources: 

Website: https://dr-jason-n-linder.clientsecure.me/ 

EMDR-HAP (low-cost trainings): https://www.emdrhap.org/ 

EMDRIA.org 

Dr. Linder's trauma blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/relationship-and-trauma-insights

Guide for finding a good EMDR therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/relationship-and-trauma-insights/202210/how-to-search-for-and-vet-your-prospective-emdr 

Social media: FB IG, TikTok, Twitter @drjasonnlinder

If you have a burning question or comment, find us @burningthecouch on all major social platforms.