Undoubtedly, at one point in your life, you've found yourself in the middle of a situation where lack of communication caused undue stress. Whether the communication gaps came from your side of the table, from others you were interacting with, or from everyone involved collectively, one thing was clear: poor communication led to insufficient outcomes.

Effective communication is a powerful tool that can shape relationships and inspire positive change. It empowers individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and ideas with clarity and precision, which leads to more concise understanding and increased strength in our connections.

But equally as strong, ineffective communication can lead to comments being taken out of context, relationships ending, and irreparable divisiveness. 

We live in a world where texting, emailing, and social media have replaced having physical conversations in many cases - a societal shift that can damage relationships and lead to serious mental harm if the real meanings of those exchanges are misconstrued.

In the Season 3 finale of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara welcomes our podcast's Executive Producer, Jason Cercone, back to the studio for a candid chat about the impact of communication...and the lack thereof.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What happens when communication falls apart
• Why having actual conversations versus texting is imperative to problem solving and conflict resolution
• The role active listening plays in our ability to communicate effectively
• Strategies and exercises for improving communication with family, friends, colleagues, and clients
  
  

ABOUT JASON: Jason Cercone is a podcast consultant, producer, and host with nearly a decade's worth of experience in the podcast arena. He helps business leaders and results-driven professionals simplify podcasting and bring purpose, clarity, and impact to their audio endeavors. He launched The Solo Podcaster's Mastermind to help coaches, consultants, and leaders improve their solo podcasting skills while elevating their brands at the same time. You can learn more about Jason on his website at jasoncercone.com

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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

If you go back in the archives of this podcast, you'll discover a truly insightful and inspirational conversation with the one and only John Purkiss, the author of The Power of Letting Go. John's bestselling book takes an in-depth look at what happens when you finally let go of past trauma and make real, intentional steps forward in your life.

This vast improvement on your mental health and well-being is paramount to healing and becoming happy again, and letting go of all the negative emotions that surround our past mistakes and shortcomings serves as a critical step towards living the life you want to live.

In Season 3 Episode 8 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara welcomes John back to the podcast to continue to the conversation! John recently released a guided journal that stemmed from the popularity of The Power of Letting Go called Learn to Let Go: A Guided Journal: Drop everything that's holding you back and today, he's going to tell you all about it while providing insight and wisdom to help you make strides to let go in your life.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How John's bestselling book led to his new guided journal
• The impact of letting go of past emotions and trauma
• John's simple 3-step process for letting things go
• What it means to "unclench and surrender" and the pivotal role this action plays on your mental health

To connect with John:

Click here to pick up a copy of The Power of Letting Go
Click here to pick up a copy of Learn to Let Go: A Guided Journal: Drop everything that's holding you back
Connect with John on his website johnpurkiss.com!

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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Undoubtedly, there's been a point in your life where you've looked out the window and said to yourself, "Why am I not outside right now?"

You may even be saying it to yourself right now. 🙂

The great outdoors serve as a natural elixir that can play a significant role in maintaining and improving your mental health. Spending time outdoors and in nature can lead to stress reduction, an improved mood, enhanced cognitive function, an increase in physical activity, and new opportunities for connection with loved ones.

Just the simple act of taking a walk on a nice day and absorbing the sunshine and fresh air can provide clarity for a clogged mind and a new outlook on life as a whole.

In Season 3 Episode 7 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Makin Wellness Licensed Professional Counselor Doug Puchko returns to share the mic with Sara Makin to discuss the healing powers of nature. This conversation is jam-packed with valuable tips and insights about nature, including:

• Why we, as humans, can get so much value from nature
• Ways to work more time outdoors into your life
• The impact time spent away from nature can have on your mental health
• How to find the restorative benefits of nature no matter what your surroundings may be

ABOUT DOUG: Doug worked as a financial advisor for 7 years where he helped individuals, couples, and families navigate the hardships of life and enabled them to gain better insight on how to best help themselves. Upon returning to the field of psychology and graduating with an MS in Counseling Psychology he has specialized in working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, people coping with stress, anxiety, and trauma, as well as couples counseling. He focuses on using psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, humanistic psychology, positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy with this clients in session.

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Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again!
Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL

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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Have you ever stopped to consider the type of role mental health plays in a workplace environment? With all we know about emotional well-being and a person's mental state on their productivity, it's amazing that positive mental health hasn't received much attention until today. 

And, in the case of some companies, it's still overlooked or undervalued.

Prioritizing mental health in the workplace can lead to reduced stress levels, positive morale, and increased job satisfaction...which can, in turn, lead to better employee retention. Companies that have placed more emphasis on mental health for their employees by providing access to counseling services, promoting work-life balance, and creating a culture of open communication have seen significant improvements within their company culture, thus opening up new opportunities for growth and success.

In Season 3 Episode 6 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is once again joined by Makin Wellness Master's Level Clinical Intern Meera Vasishtha for an in-depth look at mental health and the workplace. Throughout this conversation, you'll discover:

• Why companies are finally giving mental health the attention it deserves
• The positive effects of a healthy, happy workforce
• Why companies that don't emphasize mental health continue to struggle with morale, productivity, and retention
• What you can do at your company to ensure mental health is prioritized

ABOUT MEERA: My name is Meera Vasishtha and I am a Master’s Level Clinical Intern at Makin Wellness. I’m currently studying mental health counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. After attending New York University for undergrad, where I majored in communications, I spent most of my professional career in marketing and technology. I worked at Estee Lauder, Coty, and now at Amazon, in their Audible division.

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Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again!
Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL

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Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm. These days, it's nearly impossible to go online and not find an advertisement or someone talking about the benefits (or detriments, depending on who you listen to) of AI software.

But how does AI and other evolving technologies impact the mental health world? Can it help a clinician with their efforts? Can it provide early detection (and even diagnosis) of mental health conditions by analyzing patterns in data such as speech, text, or facial impressions? Can it serve as a substitute for mental health treatment?

As we move forward, AI will continue to get smarter and more intuitive and it's up to us to understand how this technology can aid our plight and, more importantly, how to use it responsibly.

In Season 4 Episode 5 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is joined by Makin Wellness Master's Level Clinical Intern Meera Vasishtha for a chat about AI, ChatGPT, and other technologies that are changing the mental health world for the better. In this discussion, you'll discover:

• What AI is all about and how it benefits the mental health world
• Why it's important to gain an understanding of AI technology
• How you can utilize AI in your life, from a mental health standpoint and beyond

ABOUT MEERA: My name is Meera Vasishtha and I am a Master’s Level Clinical Intern at Makin Wellness. I’m currently studying mental health counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. After attending New York University for undergrad, where I majored in communications, I spent most of my professional career in marketing and technology. I worked at Estee Lauder, Coty, and now at Amazon, in their Audible division.

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Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again!
Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL

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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Supporting the mental health of essential workers plays a crucial role in ensuring their overall well-being and resilience. Workers such as healthcare professionals and emergency responders often face high levels of stress, burnout, and trauma due to the demanding nature of their work. Providing effective mental health support can help them cope with these types of challenges and prevent potential long-term negative consequences.

Companies that invest in the support of mental health for their employees have experienced a positive ripple effect on their broader communities. When these workers receive the necessary support, they are better equipped to fulfill their roles effectively, safely, and in a much better frame of mind.

In Season 3 Episode 4 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is joined by Makin Wellness Licensed Professional Counselor Michelle Wygant for a look at the impact mental health support has for essential workers. Throughout this conversation, Sara and Michelle discuss:

• The importance of supporting mental health initiatives for essential workers across the board
• Why this subject is getting the attention it deserves in today's workplace 
• The impact ignoring mental health has on workers
• What your company can do to ensure they're prioritizing your worker's mental health

ABOUT MICHELLE: Hello! My name is Michelle Wygant and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master’s degree in Counseling both from Slippery Rock University. I also hold an Education Specialist degree from Liberty University. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years both as a counselor and as a supervisor of various therapy programs.

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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Mental health plays a critical role in the active dynamic of family life. It impacts the overall well-being and functioning of each family member, as well as the family unit as a whole.

Good mental health promotes positive relationships, effective communication, and a supportive environment. When individuals in a family experience challenges regarding mental health, it can cause a significant strain on each individual and the collective group. 

In Season 3 Episode 3 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is joined by Licensed Professional Counselor Autumn Lovas for an in-depth conversation about the role of mental health in family life. Throughout this conversation, Sara and Autumn will discuss:

• Why mental health plays such a vital role in the family dynamic
• Real-life scenarios you can implement to ensure positive mental health is held in high priority
• The best time to start focusing on your children's mental health
• The detriments of ignoring crucial signs of mental health being overlooked

ABOUT AUTUMN: Hi! My name is Autumn Lovas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with Makin Wellness. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at St. Vincent College and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I started my career working with families of children on the Autism Spectrum before transitioning to higher education and working with college students as a mental health counselor. 

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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Teletherapy, also known as online therapy or e-therapy, is a form of professional counseling that takes place remotely through digital communication tools including video calls, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It offers individuals the opportunity to access therapy services from the comfort of their home or any location where they can access the internet.

This form of therapy has become highly utilized over the past several years with the COVID-19 pandemic playing a role in its rise in use and practicality. The convenience and flexibility teletherapy offers makes it an ideal way to focus on your mental health. 

In Season 3 Episode 2 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin welcomes Makin Wellness Licensed Professional Counselor Doug Puchko back to the podcast for an in-depth look at teletherapy. Throughout this conversation, Sara and Doug will share:

• The history of teletherapy and how it began
• Reasons why so many people have turned to teletherapy to heal and become happy again
• Advantages of teletherapy vs. in-person therapy
• Some of the disadvantages of teletherapy that you need to know
• How to take the first step to seeking help via the teletherapy platform

ABOUT DOUG: Doug worked as a financial advisor for 7 years where he helped individuals, couples, and families navigate the hardships of life and enabled them to gain better insight on how to best help themselves. Upon returning to the field of psychology and graduating with an MS in Counseling Psychology he has specialized in working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, people coping with stress, anxiety, and trauma, as well as couples counseling. He focuses on using psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, humanistic psychology, positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy with this clients in session.

Discover More Mental Health Resources!
Visit makinwellness.com today

Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again!
Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL

Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Gaslighting is a manipulation tactic used to make someone question their own thoughts, feelings, and reality. It involves distorting the truth, denying facts, and undermining the victim's perception of events. 

In terms of emotional manipulation, a gaslighter seeks to gain power and control over their victim. They may employ techniques such as belittling, criticizing, and insulting the victim, a systematic process that can gradually erode self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall mental health.

Gaslighters also have a tendency to distort reality. They may deny previous conversations, change the meaning of past events, or fabricate false information, thus leading the victim to question their own memory and perception. 

In the Season 3 premiere of Stuff My Therapist Says, host Sara Makin and special guest Carolyn Weimer, a Licensed Professional Counselor at Makin Wellness, take a deep look at the harmful form of psychological abuse known as gaslighting. Together, Sara and Carolyn will discuss:

• the definition of the disorder
• how to recognize critical signs of gaslighting
• the impact gaslighting has on mental health
• ways to get overcome the damaging effects of gaslighting on your mental health

ABOUT CAROLYN: Hello! My name is Carolyn Weimer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. I have worked in the behavioral health and Drug and Alcohol field for many years as an Outpatient Therapist, Partial Hospitalization Therapist, Inpatient Mental Health Supervisor, Crisis Clinician, High Risk Care Manager, and Team Leader of a Community Treatment Team. I have worked with adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health, behavioral health needs, and drug and alcohol issues. I specialize in treating trauma related issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, stress management and addiction issues. 

Discover More Mental Health Resources!
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Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again!
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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

Often times, it can be difficult to strike a positive relationship with money. You may believe once you have an enormous amount of it, all your problems will be solved. But, in most cases, that's simply not the case. 

You may feel a sense of responsibility to help everyone around you because you have the means to do so. And while being charitable has its advantages, it's important not to let your generosity put you in a bad position.

Kine Corder specializes in financial therapy and today, she's bringing her world-renowned wisdom and expertise to Stuff My Therapist Says! 

In the Season 2 Finale, Kine joins host Sara Makin for a powerful conversation about:

• How to reduce stress about money
• Differences and parallels between survivors, strivers, and thrivers (and how to know which one you identify as)
• The reason money stresses are passed down from your upbringing, society, and culture
• Three actionable steps you can take today to start reducing your money stress

Connect with Kine on your favorite social media platform:
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube

And visit her website today: presidentiallifestyle.com

Discover More Mental Health Resources!
Visit makinwellness.com today

Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again!
Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL

Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms:
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MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com