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Unlock the complex ethical considerations of counseling minors with the guidance of a special guest: Hannah Salazar, a seasoned therapist and professional school counselor who joins us to share her rich experience. Navigating the sensitive issues of consent, confidentiality, and mandatory reporting, Hannah illuminates the intricacies of these topics through the lens of a therapist working with young clients. Her wisdom provides listeners with strategies for clear and age-appropriate communication to ensure young clients are both safe and heard within the therapeutic relationship, all the while respecting the ethical codes that govern the profession.

The episode journeys through the ethical mazes faced by child counselors, exemplified by the stories of Emma and Michael, two teens wrestling with their own critical challenges. Through careful examination and empathetic dialogue, we delve into the tough decisions that therapists must make when the veil of confidentiality and client well-being are at odds. Hannah's insights, particularly her innovative approach to helping teens self-reflect, underscore the pivotal role of empathy and collaboration in therapy. For those in the field, or simply interested in the ethical dimensions of counseling, this discussion is a treasure trove of practical advice and moral guidance, reinforcing the essential nature of professional ethics and support networks for therapists.

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Embark on an enlightening journey with us, Dr. Linton Hutchinson and Stacy Frost, as we cast a spotlight on the perplexing realm of addictive disorders. With our combined expertise, we dissect the layers of dependency, from the initial lure to the grip of withdrawal. Our latest episode is a treasure trove of insights for therapists and curious minds alike, delving into the DSM-5TR's ten classes of potentially addictive substances and behaviors—each with its unique seduction and challenges. We promise that by the end of our discussion, you'll be armed with a nuanced grasp of terms like tolerance and intoxication and a newfound appreciation for the complexity of behavior-based addictions, including the compulsive dance with the highs and lows of crypto trading.

Navigating the stormy seas of addiction requires a compass, and we offer just that by unpacking the critical diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders. Our conversation traverses the intricate landscape of symptoms and specifiers, from impaired control to social impairment, risky use, and the pharmacological nuances that therapists must recognize. We also demystify the concept of remission status and underscore the life-changing impact of maintenance therapy. So, whether you're sipping on your second cup of coffee or seeking enlightenment on the frontline of addiction therapy, tune in for an episode that doesn't just inform—it transforms.

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

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Struggle with the spotlight or just shy? We'll help you unpack that knotty question and more, offering a roadmap to understanding the twists and turns of social anxiety disorder. With a dash of humor to lighten the load, we share candid tales from our own lives,  revealing how these personal vignettes illuminate the broader psychological concepts. We also delve into how societal norms can exacerbate or mask symptoms, and we dissect the critical six-month marker that separates fleeting worry from a diagnosable condition.

Our conversation doesn't stop at social fears; it expands to the spectrum of anxiety disorder and autism. As we explore the landscape of these conditions, we highlight the signature worries of generalized anxiety disorder and the unique social and behavioral patterns seen in autism, painting a picture of how these challenges arise from within rather than external pressures. We break down the expected age of onset for these disorders and offer insights that not only prime you for acing exams but also deepen your compassion for those living with these often invisible struggles. Tune in for an episode that's as informative as it is heartfelt, guiding you through the complexities of mental health with knowledge and empathy.

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

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Embark on a profound journey with us as we unravel the complexities of co-occurring disorders alongside our insightful co-host, Stacy Frost. Together, we illuminate the often-misunderstood intersection where mental health meets substance use, unpacking the critical signs and tailoring treatment to individual needs. Discover how bipolar disorder intertwines with alcohol, how PTSD merges with a bottle, and the shadowy dance between depression and opioids. Through our conversation, we promise insights that will deepen your understanding of these dual battles waged within the mind and body, equipping you with the knowledge to recognize and address the nuanced symptoms that often go unnoticed.

With an ear to the ground and an eye on the latest clinical tools, we guide you through the maze of diagnostic techniques that are reshaping our approach to dual diagnosis. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM Disorders and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview emerge as our compasses in this terrain, helping clinicians navigate the nuanced presentations of co-occurring disorders. As we share these insights, remember that a well-informed perspective is your best ally in supporting those facing the silent struggles of intertwined mental health and substance challenges. Join us for an engaging session that not only prepares you for clinical practice but also offers a beacon of understanding for anyone touched by these complex conditions.

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

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Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of someone with antisocial personality disorder  Join us, Linton and Stacy, as we untangle the web of behaviors and traits that mark this complex condition. In our latest installment of the demystifying disorder series, we lay bare the DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for APD, highlighting the fine line between it and other personality disorders like narcissism and borderline personality disorder. We're not just talking theory; our conversation brings in vivid anecdotes and cultural examples that illuminate the everyday implications of APD and its portrayal in media.

Our journey into the world of APD doesn't stop at diagnosis; it's about understanding the person behind the behaviors and navigating the treacherous waters of treatment. We stress the crucial role of therapy boundaries, the setting of realistic goals, and the instances when it's necessary to involve authorities to ensure safety. Threaded throughout our discussion are the nuances of early signs, the significance of comprehensive history, and the challenges therapists face in the treatment room. Get ready for an eye-opening episode that promises to enrich your understanding of APD and the delicate art of managing it.

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

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Unlock the secrets of group dynamics that have stood the test of time with Tuckman's group development theory, a cornerstone of understanding how teams evolve and succeed. This episode, guided by the expertise of Dr. Linton Hutchinson and Stacy Frost, is your ticket to mastering the nuances of the forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning stages—essential knowledge for therapy professionals and anyone leading a team. We'll dissect the mnemonic "Fearful students never pass anything" and reveal its deeper significance in fostering group potential.

Join us as we navigate the intricacies of leadership roles within Tuckman's framework, where the rubber meets the road in practical applications. Whether you're mentoring a therapy group or captaining a corporate team, the lessons here are universal. Dr. Hutchinson and Stacy Frost offer a treasure trove of actionable advice, from establishing trust during the forming stage to gracefully guiding a group through the emotional journey of adjourning. With real-world examples, such as leading a therapy group for anxious teenagers, this conversation is not just theoretical—it's a roadmap for effective leadership and group management that you can apply today.

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

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Curious about how we can modify our behaviors and actions by altering the environment around us? This episode is a deep exploration into the world of B F Skinner, a pioneer in the field of psychology. We unpack his groundbreaking work in radical behaviorism, a thought-provoking approach that focuses solely on observable behavior. We dissect Skinner's theories and delve into his unique experiments with the operant conditioning chamber, also known as the Skinner box.

The journey doesn't stop there, we unravel the fascinating concepts of positive and negative reinforcement, respondent behavior, and shaping. Bringing these theories to life, we discuss a real-world case of reducing neck ticks in a young boy, Josiah, by applying Skinner's principles in a clinical setting. This episode offers an exciting exploration into the impact of environment on our behaviors and actions. Prepare to view psychology from a whole new perspective!

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

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Ever wondered how the stories you tell yourself about your past shape your future? What if you could rewrite them for a better tomorrow? Join us as we journey into the transformative world of narrative therapy. Discover, through the powerful case study of Jimmy, a middle schooler with a habit of stealing, the impact of our narratives on our actions. Unearth how narrative therapy encourages us to fill in missing details, re-authoring our lives for a more positive future. Let's explore how thin, absolute plots can bind us to negative patterns and how changing the plot can set us free.

Get ready to dive deeper! Uncover the unique narrative therapy approach that separates problems and re-constructs a more positive narrative. We discuss the principles and terms key to this therapy, such as the importance of a thick or rich narrative and the therapist's not-knowing stance. Find out how therapists look for unique outcomes within the client's story, breaking free from problem-saturated narratives. This episode is your comprehensive guide to understanding narrative therapy and stepping into the potential for rewriting your life's story. Get ready to rethink and reshape your narrative!

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What if your emotions and behaviors are not a product of circumstances but of your beliefs? Welcome back to another episode where we journey through the fascinating world of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Coined by Dr. Albert Ellis, REBT is a cognitive-behavioral therapy that seeks to transform your life by addressing the deep-rooted beliefs that influence your emotions and behaviors. We'll dissect REBT's basic assumptions and walk you through a life-altering five-step process - identifying irrational beliefs, debunking them, fostering rational ones, and reinforcing their impact on your emotional and behavioral wellness. To see how powerful REBT can be, we'll discuss its application in a case study on anxiety and panic attacks.

But we're not stopping there. In the second half, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome irrational beliefs that often hinder self-acceptance and personal growth. You'll learn about techniques like deliberate embarrassment, Socratic questioning, and evidence examination used in REBT. We'll discuss cognitive distortions and the role they play in irrational thinking. You'll also learn how to break free from secondary disturbances that often fuel these irrational thoughts. The beauty of REBT lies in its action-oriented approach to improving psychological functioning, utilizing philosophical persuasion and the practice of rational alternative beliefs. So, get ready for an enlightening discussion packed with insights into the principles and techniques of this impactful therapy that could just be the key to a healthier, happier you.

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Imagine your mind has a sneaky, uninvited guest: cognitive distortions. These negative biases are like crafty tricksters that distort your perception of reality, leading to irrational fears, overreactions, and skewed thinking patterns. Sounds daunting, right? But don't worry; we're here to help you beat these mental invaders at their own game. In this riveting episode, we unpack the concept of cognitive distortions in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exploring common tricksters such as fortune telling, magnification, minimization, and catastrophizing. We even share some personal encounters with these distortions, to show you that everyone - yes, even us - can fall prey to these thought-twisting bandits.

But what happens when these distortions start to misread your thoughts? We explore this in the second chapter, diving into various distortions like jumping to conclusions, emotional reasoning, and disqualifying the positive. We even toss in a bit of pop culture, because who said learning can't be fun? By the end of this episode, we promise you that not only will you be able to spot these distortions from a mile away, but you'll also have the tools to dismantle them. So join us for this enlightening journey, participate in our interactive quiz, and let's take the first step towards a healthier, happier mind.

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If you need to study for your national licensing exam, try the free samplers at: LicensureExams


This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.