Taking Good Care Podcast

In the season one finale of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into the all-too-common issue of burnout. While often associated with workplace stress, burnout affects far more than just working adults. It can impact children, teens, and anyone juggling multiple roles and responsibilities.

They explore how burnout shows up across different stages of life, why it’s important to recognize the early warning signs, and how it can contribute to more serious mental health challenges if left unaddressed. The conversation wraps up with an introduction into strategies to help prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being. Part two will dive deeper into the practical and proactive strategies for burnout which will be the perfect launch into season two of Taking Good Care.

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the difficult but essential topic of self-harm and suicide. This is an issue that cannot be overlooked in mental health care. Rather than aiming to provide comprehensive clinical training or sensationalize the subject, they focus on breaking down common myths, sharing key statistics, and offering clear, practical steps you can take if someone you care about is struggling with suicidal thoughts.

This conversation is especially relevant for those who may find themselves in frontline or support roles, whether professionally or personally.

Listener discretion is advised: This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes. If you experience distress while listening and are in Canada, please call 9-8-8 for immediate support. If you are outside of Canada, please reach out to your local emergency services or a crisis helpline in your area.

In this episode of the Taking Good Care podcast, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into a lively conversation about dreams. From the early days of Freud’s dream analysis to modern psychological perspectives, they explore how our understanding of dreams has evolved over time. Even though dream interpretation is no longer a central focus in psychology, dreams still stir powerful emotions ranging from joy and excitement to fear and sadness. So what purpose do they serve? The hosts unpack theories about why we dream, the role of nightmares, and whether our dreams might reveal deeper core beliefs or help us process difficult experiences and trauma. It’s an engaging discussion that will leave you reflecting on your own dreams in a whole new way!

In the final episode of this ASD series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the unique challenges faced by adults living with autism spectrum disorder. Many individuals feel pressure to “mask” their struggles, presenting a composed exterior while navigating difficulties in private. In relationships, this can lead to both partners feeling misunderstood or unheard, often mirroring each other’s frustrations.

Drawing from their clinical experience, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave discuss practical, therapy-based strategies to help adults with ASD better understand themselves and others, and to navigate the complexities of social and relational life. This episode offers insight, validation, and a message of hope; reminding listeners that growth, connection, and perseverance are always within reach.

In this episode of The Taking Good Care Podcast, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave continue the conversation on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), shifting their focus from assessment to treatment and support. While ASD is not something to be “cured,” there are many effective strategies and accommodations that can make a meaningful difference in daily life.

Together, they explore practical approaches to managing challenging behaviours and supporting individuals with ASD across different settings. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or someone navigating life on the spectrum, this episode offers thoughtful insights and actionable tips you won’t want to miss.

Following last episode’s introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take the conversation further with a deeper look at how ASD is actually diagnosed. In this episode, they explore the key factors and clinical variables that determine whether a child or adult meets the diagnostic criteria. Along the way, they discuss why diagnostic accuracy matters, what can happen when assessments miss the mark, and how clinicians can ensure individuals receive the most appropriate evaluation and care.

Whether you’re a psychology student, a parent, a professional, or simply curious to learn more about ASD, this episode offers an insightful and accessible look at the complexities behind getting the diagnosis right.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurodiversity are widely discussed, and at times politically charged topics in today’s cultural landscape. In this first installment of a special multi-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take a thoughtful, in-depth look at ASD from multiple angles.

Together, they explore the history of the diagnosis, unpack the diagnostic criteria, and examine ongoing debates surrounding prevalence and epidemiology. With clarity and balance, they address key controversies while grounding the conversation in research, clinical insight, and real-world experience.

Whether you’re an emerging mental health professional, an educator, a parent, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of autism and neurodiversity, this episode lays an essential foundation you won’t want to miss.

What exactly does a pediatric occupational therapist do and how do they work alongside psychologists to support kids?

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave chat with Venita Rajput and Kassandra Rago, the co-founders of Mighty OT’s. They break down how occupational therapy supports developing children, covering everything from emotional regulation and sensory sensitivities to feeding struggles and day-to-day routines.

It’s an insightful conversation about teamwork, child development, and helping families feel empowered every step of the way.

You can find out more about Mighty OT's at www.mightyots.ca and you can also follow them on Instagram @mightyots

Student mental health is shaped by a network of influences including students themselves, caregivers, teachers, and school leaders. Everyone plays a vital role. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with veteran Toronto principal, Vince Galea, to explore how schools can better support student well-being. Together, they examine why resilience rarely develops in isolation and why a collective, community-based approach is essential. The conversation highlights the critical need to equip educators with practical tools and strategies, and underscores how fostering a positive, respectful school culture benefits not only students, but teachers as well.

Vince Galea is very active on social media and can be found @thefriendlyprincipal on Instagram.

How much does culture influence what happens in therapy, often without us realizing it? In part two of this two part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive deeper into the powerful, and often overlooked, role culture plays in the therapy room. From therapists’ personal values and hidden biases to the messages conveyed by an office space, and even how clients choose their therapists, this episode offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at the therapeutic relationship. Through compelling personal stories and real-world insights, the psychologists reveal why cultural awareness isn’t optional - it is essential for meaningful, effective care.