Connection Therapy

Brenda and Kinsey bring their series to a close with one final episode—but this time, the tables turn. Instead of Kinsey leading the conversation, Brenda takes the opportunity to ask Kinsey a few questions about what led her to pursue psychology, her motivations, and the licensing that shaped her career.

Kinsey shares how her path in mental health counseling has been heavily focused on clinical skills, holding an LCPC, and her dedication to always learning more. 

This conversation is a beautiful reflection of what this podcast has become—a space for like-minded professionals to learn, challenge, and support one another. Brenda shares how collaboration with other therapists has made her better in her own practice. Therapists often work in isolation, but that doesn’t mean they have to feel alone.

More than anything, this episode highlights the importance of relationships within the therapist community. You’ll hear how Brenda and Kinsey push each other to grow, support each other in their respective practices, and create a space where others can find that same sense of connection.

“This is what we’re building in the Connection Community.”

Whether you're a therapist, a student, or simply someone passionate about psychology, this podcast is here to support you. I hope you find encouragement, and I hope you feel supported—because none of us are in this alone. For More Information about our Guest:

Kinsey Rone, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

www.keycounselingllc.com

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Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

Brenda and her colleague and friend, Kinsey Rone, LCPC, continue their conversation from last week, digging deeper into what drives Brenda’s work and the heart behind it. This isn’t just about therapy—it’s about the love for psychology that inspired the podcast and the curiosity that keeps her learning.

So much of this work is about staying open. Open to learning. Open to new perspectives. Open to the reality that no one gets it right all the time. That same openness is what fuels Brenda’s curiosity about human behavior and makes her so dedicated to this field.

A question that comes up is, what breaks your heart?

For Brenda, it’s seeing the weight people carry and how their past experiences have shaped them. Everyone develops ways to protect themselves, and those patterns can be hard to break. But when someone begins to trust the process, even just a little, it’s a powerful thing to witness.

This conversation offers more than just insight into therapy—it’s a chance to understand Brenda on a deeper level. To see what moves her, why she does this work, and how psychology isn’t just a profession for her, but something in which she deeply believes and to which she is deeply committed.

For More Information about our Guest:

Kinsey Rone, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

www.keycounselingllc.com 

References: 

Blakemore, C., & Cooper, G.F. (1970). Development of the brain depends on the visual environment.  In the journal, Nature, (228), pp. 477-478

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Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

Today’s episode is a special one. We’re switching things up as Brenda takes a seat on the other side of the conversation. Joining her is longtime friend and colleague, Kinsey Rone, a fellow mental health therapist who knows Brenda’s journey in the field firsthand. But today, Kinsey isn’t just here as a friend—she’s here to interview Brenda, giving listeners an opportunity to hear her story, her passion, and the deeper motivations behind her work.

Many listeners know Brenda as a dedicated mental health therapist, but her work goes beyond sitting with clients in a therapy session. She has built a career that intertwines clinical practice with research and assessment, always seeking to understand mental health from a deeper, evidence-based perspective. In today’s conversation, Brenda opens up about the experiences that have influenced her work and how she continues to grow in her approach to supporting others.

For More Information about our Guest:

Kinsey Rone, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

www.keycounselingllc.com

Non-verbal communication holds incredible power in therapy. In today’s episode Brenda highlights the intersection of Dance Movement Therapy and Video microanalysis, inspired by research from Rebecca Houghton and Dr. Beatrice Beebe. Together, these approaches offer new insights into movement and communication in therapeutic settings.

Brenda reflects on how actions and movements often reveal more about interactions than words. Drawing from her favorite research articles, she explains how Dance Movement Therapy and video microanalysis influence her own practices, including work with young children and animals. Brenda emphasizes that movement is a significant part of how we communicate and connect, often conveying emotions and intentions more clearly than words can.

One example she shares is an 80-second interaction analyzed by Rebecca Houghton, which highlights how subtle body language can send messages that don’t align with our intentions. Brenda uses this insight to reflect on in her own research, noting how watching herself back has revealed mismatches between her body language and the messages she intended to convey. These moments can be humbling, but they open the door to growth. By aligning her intentions with her physical presence, Brenda has learned to create deeper connections with her clients.

This work also extends to broader therapeutic practices, including animal-assisted therapy, where understanding non-verbal cues is equally critical. Movement and awareness, Brenda explains, have the potential to transform interactions and deepen relationships across all forms of therapy.

www.connectiontherapypodcast.com

Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

References: 

Houghton, R. & Beebe, B., (2016).Dance/Movement Therapy: Learning to Look Through Video Microanalysis. American Journal of Dance Therapy. DOI 10.1007/s10465-016-9226-0

Dr. Beatrice Beebe, https://www.beatricebeebe.com/

Kestenberg Movement Profile: https://kestenbergmovementprofile.org/

Laban Movement Analysis: https://labaninternational.org/scope-of-practice/movement-analysis/

In today’s episode, Brenda unpacks a research study that explores the profound impact of something as simple as a walk. The study focused on older adults and how engaging with awe during a walk could change their emotional and mental well-being.

 Participants were asked to take weekly walks and snap photos along the way—pictures of themselves and anything that caught their attention. They were encouraged to seek out things that sparked wonder, whether it was the beauty of a natural setting or something unexpected.

What the study revealed was fascinating. The participants who sought out awe in their surroundings tended to take photos where their surroundings took up more of the frame, and over time focused less on themselves. This focus on the environment, or the “small self,” suggested that by shifting their attention away from themselves, they felt more connected to the world around them. Their smiles were also significantly more intense—an indication of emotional uplift.

Brenda discusses how this shift in perspective can be applied in therapy. Whether in therapy or at home, the act of intentionally seeking awe can bring about significant shifts in mood and self-perception.  

The takeaway here is simple but impactful, emphasizing that even the slightest shift in perspective can have a meaningful impact. 

References: 

Sturm, V. E., Datta, S., Roy, A. R. K., Sible, I. J., Kosik, E. L., Veziris, C. R., Chow, T. E., Morris, N. A., Neuhaus, J., Kramer, J. H., Miller, B. L., Holley, S. R., & Keltner, D. (2022). Big smile, small self: Awe walks promote prosocial positive emotions in older adults. Emotion, 22(5), 1044–1058. https://doi-org.pgi.idm.oclc.org/10.1037/emo0000876

Today, Brenda wraps up her series on Erik Erikson’s 8-stage model by focusing on Stage 5: Identity vs. Role Confusion, a pivotal phase for adolescents aged 12-18. This stage, that Brenda often calls the "trying on coats" phase, is all about self-discovery and the search for identity.

Why is this important? As Brenda explains, understanding Erikson’s stages gives therapists a framework to contextualize what they hear in sessions. Adolescents are impressionable, and their brains are still developing rapidly, processing new information and experiences at an incredible pace. This constant evolution makes them emotionally and cognitively unique.

Brenda emphasizes the importance of having concrete, candid conversations in therapy. Discussing choices and explaining the reasoning behind decisions helps teens open up about their feelings. Establishing boundaries around confidentiality—particularly highlighting safety limits—builds trust while ensuring guardians are involved when necessary.

Through Erikson’s lens, Brenda offers a valuable guide for helping teens navigate this critical period of growth, where the foundation of their identity begins to take shape.

Connect with Brenda with the link below

www.connectiontherapypodcast.com

Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

References:

Holmberg, B.,Why Does Time Move Faster as We Get Older?: Time gets faster as we age because we change more slowly (retrieved August 23, 2024) at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-of-self/202404/why-does-time-move-faster-as-we-get-older

Understanding the Role of the Brain and Neurochemistry at

https://www.oohctoolbox.org.au/brain-neurochemistry-adolescence 

McWilliams, N. (2011). Psychoanalytic Diagnosis: Understanding personality structure in the clinical process (2nd ed.)Guilford Press.

Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

In today’s episode, Brenda takes listeners into the 4th stage of Erikson’s model—Industry vs. Inferiority. This stage, typically between the ages of 6 and 11, is all about children figuring out their abilities and learning to feel competent. Brenda highlights how, during this stage, kids start putting in a lot of effort, but they’re also grappling with the reality that they can’t always be the best, even when they've tried their hardest.

As mental health therapists, it’s essential to understand the internal conflict that children in this stage often face. They’re trying to balance their efforts with self-doubt, and that can feel overwhelming. Kids also begin to care deeply about peer relationships during this time, which can heighten their sensitivity to how others perceive them. 

Brenda shares how this stage often looks quieter in therapy. There might not be noticeable progress at first glance, but there’s a lot happening beneath the surface. Kids are exploring their self-worth through play, their effort, and their interactions. As therapists, our role is to stay curious about their internal world and validate their experiences. It’s about guiding them to recognize that their value isn’t just in being the best, but in the effort they put into what they do.

Brenda also touches on the challenges of unstructured time, like winter breaks. For some children, the lack of routine during these times can be unsettling and impact their emotional regulation. As therapists, it’s important to help create structure during these breaks and to help children understand and manage these shifts.

In this episode, Brenda offers valuable insight into how we, as mental health therapists, can support children in this sensitive stage. By being attuned to their emotional needs and validating their efforts, we can help them navigate this phase with resilience and confidence.

Connect with Brenda with the link below:

www.connectiontherapypodcast.com

Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

References:

Anna Freud. (1946). The Psycho-Analytical Treatment of Children. New York, NY: International Univ. Press.

Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

In this week’s episode, Brenda brings listeners into one of her favorite stages in Erikson’s eight-stage model: Stage 3, which focuses on children aged 3 to 5. This is the stage of initiative versus guilt, a time when little ones are beginning to assert their independence and explore the world in new and exciting ways.

Brenda reframes the concept of “initiative” into something easier to grasp. It’s that spark of independence we see when children try new things and take their first steps toward confidence. This stage is all about testing boundaries and discovering what they’re capable of doing.

 This is one of the most honest stages of development. Before children learn the social rules that shape interactions later, they live authentically. Their emotions, thoughts, and desires are out in the open, and they’re just starting to realize they are unique individuals. But it’s also a huge transition—from living solely in the safety of home to stepping out into the world.

 Helping children navigate their emotions is a big part of this stage. They’re learning to express feelings that seem to burst out of them at times. As therapists, we can give them space for these emotions to move while helping them understand what they’re feeling.

 At this stage, the world feels enormous to a 3- to 5-year-old. Everything is new, unfamiliar, and sometimes overwhelming. Brenda shares how children are filled with curiosity but also need support and guidance to feel safe as they explore.

 This stage is about giving them room to grow—emotionally, socially, and physically—while also providing a foundation of understanding.

Connect with Brenda with the link below

www.connectiontherapypodcast.com

Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

References:

Anna Freud. (1946). The Psycho-Analytical Treatment of Children. New York, NY: International Univ. Press.

Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

Pat Parelli - Natural Horsemanship, www.parelli.com

Brenda introduces Erikson’s second stage of development, Autonomy vs. Shame, and highlights the importance of supporting a child’s growing sense of independence. Occurring between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, this stage is a pivotal time when toddlers begin to explore their abilities and assert their own choices. 

At this stage, children are just beginning to understand that they are separate from the people around them. This newfound awareness can lead to a desire for autonomy, but it can also bring feelings of shame and doubt when they face challenges or are met with disapproval. Supporting a child at this stage requires a close relationship with the caregivers to ensure the child feels both supported and empowered.

Brenda gives a closer look into what therapy looks like during this stage but also gives excellent guidance on communicating during this stage. One crucial element during Stage 2 is rapprochement, which refers to the back-and-forth dynamic between a child and their caregiver. This term describes a child's growing awareness of their independence and their need to return to the caregiver for reassurance.

Even if you’re not working with toddlers or preschoolers, understanding the struggles of autonomy vs. shame is important. Issues that arise in Stage 2 can echo into later stages of life. Understanding the potential long-term effects of early developmental challenges can be valuable for therapists working with children, teens, and adults. 

Connect with Brenda with the link below

www.connectiontherapypodcast.com

Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast

References Mentioned in this Episode:

Anna Freud. (1946). The Psycho-Analytical Treatment of Children. New York, NY: International Univ. Press.

Margaret Mahler’s Rapprochement in referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

In today’s episode, Brenda introduces Erikson’s first stage of development, Trust vs. Mistrust, and explores how to understand a child’s world beyond direct questions. This foundational stage, typically ranging from 0-18 months old, lays the groundwork for their entire emotional and cognitive development, making it essential to tune into behaviors and subtle cues rather than relying on verbal answers alone.

In Erikson’s model, the first stage of development — Trust vs. Mistrust — is all about creating a safe and dependable environment for a child. When children sense that their caregivers and surroundings are trustworthy, they begin to feel secure and more willing to explore, learn, and engage with others.

For caregivers and therapists, understanding Trust vs. Mistrust in children involves careful observation and assessment, focusing on subtle behaviors that reveal the child’s level of comfort, attachment, and sense of security.

Erikson’s model provides a framework for understanding child development that’s rooted in the idea of stages — each of which builds on the previous one. In the case of Trust vs. Mistrust, establishing trust is essential for all future growth. 

The model isn’t about specific therapeutic interventions, but rather a guide for observing developmental milestones and assessing whether a child is experiencing the security needed to reach them. 

References Mentioned in this Episode:

Lou Cozolino. (2024, 4th ed).  The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy: Healing the Social Brain (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology). 

Anna Freud. (1946). The Psycho-Analytical Treatment of Children. New York, NY: International Univ. Press.

Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

Bessel Van der Kolk (2015). The Body Keeps the Score.