The Complex Trauma Podcast

In this episode, Sarah and her guest, Gabby Morreale, discuss how to navigate relapses while in recovery from an eating disorder. They explore the difference between recovery and being recovered, and emphasize the importance of self-compassion and working with the inner critic. 

They also discuss common times for relapse, such as major life changes, stress, and seasons of life when bodies naturally change. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the significance of having a strong support system and a multidisciplinary team to help navigate relapses and slips..They emphasize the importance of being kind to ourselves, about the feelings of isolation that can come with an eating disorder and how to work with them.

Takeaways

• Recovery from an eating disorder is a unique and ongoing process, and it is important to define what recovery means to you.
• Relapses and slips are common in eating disorder recovery, and it is important to approach them with self-compassion.
• Having a strong support system and a multidisciplinary team can be instrumental in navigating relapses and slips.
• Challenging shame and working with the inner critic is supportive in maintaining recovery and preventing relapses. Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion.
• Eating disorders can make you feel isolated, but you are not alone.
• Reach out for support and remember that there are people who understand and care.
• Consider seeking therapy from professionals who specialize in treating eating disorders.

Be sure to check out Gabby and her team of clinicians at recovered and restored!

Visit their website at www.recoveredandrestoredtherapy.com, on Instagram and on Youtube.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

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Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

This conversation with Sarah and Abby explore the challenges and emotions involved in ending a therapeutic relationship. 

Sarah and Abby discuss the how, at times, ending your relationship with your therapist can be intense  and share discomfort associated with the terminology used to describe the process. They share personal experiences of parting ways with therapists and offer insights into navigating these transitions including the fear of termination sessions and the people-pleaser dilemma. 

They emphasize the importance (on the therapist's side) of creating a safe space for open communication and provide suggestions for different ways to end a therapist relationship. They discuss recognizing patterns in ending relationships and the possibility of shifting and transforming therapeutic relationships. The fear of finding another therapist is addressed, and the hosts encourage embracing the awkwardness of therapy as a means of growth and self-discovery.

Takeaways

• Ending a therapeutic relationship can be intense and uncomfortable, but it is a normal part of the therapeutic process.
• The terminology used to describe ending a therapy relationship, such as 'termination,' can feel intimidating and intense.
• There are various reasons for parting ways with a therapist, including logistical issues, a lack of fit, or personal growth.
• It is important to create a safe space for open communication and to be honest about one's needs and concerns in the therapeutic relationship.
• Ending a therapy relationship does not necessarily mean the end of therapy altogether; it can involve shifting or transforming the therapeutic dynamic.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this conversation, Sarah and Robin Klein, Registered Dietitian and Pediatric Nutrition Specialist,  discuss the challenges of parenting in a weight-centric society and how to begin to create body positive homes for our kids. 

They explore the importance of creating body positive homes and provide tips for navigating school environments. They also discuss how to respond to kids' comments about bodies and the importance of non-appearance based praise. 

In this conversation, Robin and Sarah discuss the negative messages about body size and food that children are exposed to through media, books, and TV shows. They emphasize the importance of being mindful of the messages children receive and being proactive in choosing positive role models and media content. They also discuss the harmful impact of weight shaming and the need to shift the focus from body size to overall health. 

Robin provides practical tips for parents to create a body-positive home environment, including involving children in food preparation and exercise. They encourage parents to seek support and resources to navigate these challenges.

Takeaways

• Parenting in a weight-centric society can be challenging, but it is important to create body positive homes and promote body acceptance.
• Navigating medical settings and weight charts can be difficult, but parents can advocate for their children and focus on overall health rather than weight.
• School environments can also be challenging, but parents can communicate with teachers and emphasize body diversity and acceptance.
• Responding to kids' comments about bodies requires sensitivity and open communication, focusing on the importance of all bodies and non-appearance based praise. Be mindful of the negative messages about body size and food that children are exposed to through media, books, and TV shows.
• Choose positive role models and media content that promote body positivity and healthy relationships with food.
• Shift the focus from body size to overall health and well-being.
• Involve children in food preparation and exercise to create a positive and inclusive environment.

To learn more about Robin and her work, follow her on instagram at @intunenutritiontherapy or visit her website at https://www.intunenutritiontherapy.com.

Robin's Book Recommendations:

We're Different We're the Same, Sesame Street
Bodies are Cool, Tyler Feder
Her Body Can, Katie Crenshaw
Your Body is Awesome: Body Respect for Children by Sigrun Danielsdottir
Taking Up Space, Alyson Gerber
The Body Image Workbook for Every Body, Rachel Sellers and Mimi Cole
Raising Body Positive Teens: A parent's guide to diet -free living, exercising, and body image. Signe Darpinian, Wendy Sterling, Shelley Aggarwal
Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture, Virginia Sole-Smith

Download Robin's Lunchbox Card Here

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this conversation, Sarah and Laura discuss the challenges and strategies of reintroducing movement after engaging in recovery work. They share their personal experiences and the importance of listening to the body and emphasize the importance of finding a supportive and inclusive exercise environment and avoiding shame in the process. 

They also discuss the cycles of behavior and the need for flexibility and permission in movement. The conversation concludes with a reminder of the importance of support and patience in the journey of movement recovery.

Takeaways

• Reintroducing movement after recovery requires a mindful approach and listening to the body.
• Finding a supportive and inclusive exercise environment is crucial for a positive movement experience.
• Being curious about cycles of behavior and using recovery tools can help navigate triggers and find a way out.
• Flexibility and permission are key in movement, allowing for rest and honoring the body's needs.
• Support and patience are essential in the process of movement recovery.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this conversation, Sarah and her guest, Rachel Shiflet,  discuss the importance of having eating disorder-informed medical providers and regular check-ins with medical professionals during recovery. They explore the concepts of weight stigma and anti-fatness, emphasizing the need for awareness and consciousness in medical settings.
 
This conversation explores strategies for advocating for oneself and navigating medical appointments in the context of eating disorder recovery. Rachel shares tips to navigate medical appointments, the importance of educating providers and bringing an advocate when it would feel supportive. They also share grounding techniques and self-care practices to reduce anxiety and create a sense of safety. 

The conversation highlights the need to know one's limits and set boundaries, as well as the challenges of navigating scarcity and deprivation in healthcare. Sarah and Rachel emphasize the importance of working with a treatment team and practicing self-compassion and self-inquiry throughout eating disorder recovery. They also address the challenges of managing dietary restrictions while in recovery and provide guidance on dealing with providers who blame all medical concerns on eating disorders.

Takeaways

• Having eating disorder-informed medical providers is crucial for comprehensive care during recovery.
• Regular check-ins with medical professionals are important to address both physical and mental health concerns.
• Weight stigma and anti-fatness are pervasive in society and can negatively impact individuals' experiences in medical settings.
• Advocating for oneself in medical settings can be challenging but is essential for receiving appropriate care and support. Advocate for yourself and educate providers about your needs and concerns.
• Bring an advocate to medical appointments for support and validation.
• Use grounding techniques and self-care practices to reduce anxiety and create a sense of safety.
• Know your limits, set boundaries, and prioritize your well-being.
• Work with a treatment team and practice self-compassion and self-inquiry.

To learn about Rachel and working with her business partners Kristen and Emily, visit https://www.liberatedplate.co/

Be sure to follow Liberated Plate on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/liberatedplatenutrition

For Don't Weigh Me cards, visit More-Love at https://more-love.org/resources/free-dont-weigh-me-cards/.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this conversation, Sarah and Casey discuss various topics related to body image and relationships. 

They dive into the impact of body image on dating, discussing societal pressures and the challenges of online dating. The conversation also explores the challenges faced in long-term relationships, including changes in attraction and body image. They emphasize the importance of self-compassion and open communication in navigating these issues. 

Overall, the conversation highlights the complexity of body image and relationships in today's society. The conversation explores the difficulties of dating and relationships, emphasizing the challenges faced in various types of relationships. It highlights the importance of self-compassion and externalizing the problems rather than blaming oneself. The role of platforms in facilitating connections and relationships is also acknowledged.

Takeaways

• Body image can have a significant impact on dating and relationships, with societal pressures and biases playing a role.
• Navigating dating apps can be challenging, and it's important to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
• In long-term relationships, bodies and attractions may change over time, and open communication is crucial.
• Self-compassion and challenging cultural influences are key in developing a healthy body image and maintaining fulfilling relationships. Dating and relationships can be challenging in various ways.
• It is important to have self-compassion and externalize messages from diet culture rather than blaming oneself.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this conversation, Sarah and Eva Haldis, owner of Reclaim Nutrition, discuss the intersection of nutrition and ADHD, particularly in relation to eating disorders.

Eva shares her personal journey with ADHD and how it has influenced her understanding of her clients' experiences.

They explore the impact of medication on appetite and discuss strategies for nourishing the body consistently. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and offers practical steps for supporting their nutrition and well-being.

In this conversation, Sarah and Eva discuss the intersection of ADHD and eating disorders. They provide practical tips for managing meal planning and preparation, including setting up emergency meal ideas and incorporating prepackaged foods. They emphasize the importance of understanding the unique challenges and needs of individuals with ADHD and eating disorders. They also discuss the benefits of seeking support and the role of diagnosis in understanding and addressing these issues.

Takeaways

• ADHD can impact appetite and eating patterns, making it important to be mindful of nourishing the body consistently.
• Medication for ADHD may suppress appetite, requiring strategies such as eating before taking medication or finding alternative ways to nourish the body.
• Individuals with ADHD may struggle with impulse control, which can contribute to binge eating and purging behaviors.
• Sensory sensitivities and executive dysfunction are common in individuals with ADHD and can impact their relationship with food and eating.
• Practical steps for nourishment include eating something in the morning, identifying go-to meals, and anticipating the body's needs throughout the day. Set up emergency meal ideas to ensure satisfying and easy options are always available.
• Incorporate prepackaged foods as a convenient and helpful option for meal planning.
• Understand the intersection of ADHD and eating disorders to better address challenges and develop effective strategies.

Learn more at Reclaim Nutrition at https://www.reclaimnutritionpa.com or follow them on Instagram @reclaimnutritionpa

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this episode, Sarah and Emily discuss New Year's resolutions and the mixed feelings people have towards them. They explore the pressure and hype surrounding resolutions and the unrealistic expectations that often come with them. They also discuss the low success rate of resolutions and the importance of setting realistic and sustainable goals. Sarah and Emily emphasize the need to understand one's motivations and to focus on the internal process rather than external outcomes. They give permission to not set resolutions and encourage listeners to honor their own needs and reflect on their experiences.

Takeaways

• New Year's resolutions can be both loved and hated, and it's important to understand one's own feelings towards them.
• The pressure and hype surrounding resolutions often lead to unrealistic expectations and can be discouraging.
• Setting realistic and sustainable goals is key to achieving resolutions.
• It's important to understand one's motivations and focus on the internal process rather than external outcomes.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this conversation, Sarah and Laura discuss the challenges of navigating food and the holidays. They emphasize the importance of getting back to basics and normalizing the experience of the holiday season. 

They also discuss the influence of diet culture and the need to be mindful of external influences. The conversation highlights the importance of nourishing the body, enjoying holiday foods, and creating a flexible structure for eating. They also discuss the significance of movement, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion. 

The conversation concludes with a reminder to defy diet culture and prioritize self-care and joy.

Takeaways:

• Normalize the challenges of the holiday season and seek support from your recovery team or support groups.
• Get back to basics by nourishing your body, listening to hunger and fullness cues, and enjoying holiday foods.
• Create a flexible structure for eating, especially if you're in early recovery, and prioritize regular meals and snacks.
• Incorporate movement and mindfulness into your day, such as stretching and taking intentional breaks.
• Set boundaries and prioritize self-care by saying no to events or activities that feel overwhelming.
• Practice self-compassion and seek support if you find yourself using eating disorder symptoms or engaging in avoidance behaviors.
• Gift yourself with self-care and joy during the holiday season, and defy diet culture by reclaiming the way you care for and nourish yourself.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.

In this episode, Sarah and Abby discuss how to navigate the holidays when dealing with dysfunctional family dynamics. 

They explore the stress that many people experience during this time of year and the pressure to be joyful and family-focused. They define dysfunctional family dynamics as including conflict, tension, unspoken words, and communication patterns that do not foster safety and authenticity. The importance of setting boundaries and planning ahead is emphasized, as well as the need to lower expectations and focus on self-care.

They also discuss the challenges of navigating alcohol use and conflict during family functions. The episode concludes with encouragement to reclaim the holidays and make them your own. 

Takeaways

• The holidays can be a stressful time for many people, with 77% of individuals finding it the most stressful time of the year.
• Dysfunctional family dynamics can include conflict, tension, unspoken words, and communication patterns that do not foster safety and authenticity.
• Setting boundaries and planning ahead are crucial for navigating the holidays with dysfunctional family dynamics.
• Lowering expectations and focusing on self-care can help alleviate stress and create a more enjoyable holiday experience.
• Reclaiming the holidays and making them your own can involve creating new traditions and focusing on what brings you joy.

Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!

Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw 

Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw

Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.