Released: May 22, 2025

Guest: Dr. Alejandro Gonzalez

Hosted by: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach and Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Episode Summary:

In today’s episode, Dr. Alex (or Dr. Cheech), discusses with Gabi and Titi how he has incorporated into his busy schedule, his passion for music.  In addition to his business, he has created the space to be part of a local band – Chili Guys – and also be present for his family and friends.

They dive into the transformative power of passion projects — those meaningful, energizing pursuits that fuel your creativity and add purpose to your life. Whether you’re looking to reignite your spark, explore a side hustle, or simply reconnect with your interests, passion projects can be the key to a more fulfilling, balanced life.

Join us as we explore what makes a passion project different from your typical hobby, how to carve out time for what you love, and real-life stories of people who’ve built incredible things from their passions — without quitting their day jobs.

What You’ll Learn:

• The difference between a hobby and a passion project
• Why passion projects matter for your mental health and motivation
• How to identify what you're passionate about (even if you're unsure)
• Strategies to start — and stick with — your passion project
• Real-life examples and inspiring stories
• How passion projects can lead to personal growth, community, and even income

Favorite Quote from the Episode:

“We should never die with music inside.” Wayne Dyer

Stay Connected:

If this episode inspired you to start (or restart) a passion project, we’d love to hear from you! Screenshot this episode and tag us on social with your biggest takeaway.

Connect with us on Instagram: @coralgablescounselingcenter

Connect with Dr. Alex on Instagram: @chiliguys_music

For more on Premier Athletic Rehab Center (PARC) you can visit parc-pt.com

Subscribe & Review: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Counseling Corner for more insightful conversations on health and wellness!

For more on Cristina and Gabi, you can

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Released: May 1, 2025

Guest: Dr. Todd Giardina

Hosted by: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach and Emy Fernandez, Certified Coach

Episode Description: In this episode of The Counseling Corner, we sit down with Dr. Giardina to explore his innovative approach to mental health and the exciting new projects he's working on.

Our conversation goes beyond traditional therapy as we delve into holistic wellness—mental, physical, and everything in between. Dr. Giardina highlights the essential lifestyle changes we can make to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.

We also discuss concierge care and the varying levels of mental health support available today, helping listeners understand how to choose the right fit for their needs.

Finally, Dr. Giardina introduces us to his podcast, Therapy Without the Couch, and gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming book of the same name.

What You'll Learn: ✔️ The connection between mental and physical wellness

✔️How concierge mental health care works and who it benefits

✔️The different tiers of mental health care and how to navigate them

✔️Practical changes you can make to live a better, healthier life

✔️A behind-the-scenes look at Therapy Without the Couch, the podcast and upcoming book

 Who Should Listen?

If you're curious about modern approaches to therapy, want to take ownership of your wellness journey, or are looking for practical, real-world mental health insights—this episode is for you. Dr. Giardina brings a fresh perspective that bridges traditional care with innovative, personalized solutions.

Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!

For more on Dr. Giardina, Cristina and Emy you can check their pages at

Dr. Todd Giardina

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Emy Fernandez, MBA, Certified Coach

To learn more about our practice and the rest of our clinicians, you can visit us at:

Coral Gables Counseling Corner

Released: April 10, 2025

Guest: Cristie Besu, RN, Certified Sports Nutritionist and founder/CEO of Boundless Vitality

Hosted by: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach and Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Episode Description: In this episode of The Counseling Corner, we dive into the fascinating world of peptides with Cristie Besu, RN and the owner of Boundless Vitality. Peptides are revolutionizing health and wellness, offering benefits ranging from enhanced recovery and anti-aging to improved cognitive function and overall vitality. Our guest breaks down what peptides are, how they work, and how they can be used to optimize health.

Key Takeaways:

• What peptides are and how they function in the body
• The most popular peptides for longevity, performance, and wellness
• How peptides can support healing, recovery, and cognitive function
• The science behind peptide therapy and its growing popularity
• Safety, accessibility, and how to get started with peptides

Call to Action: Want to learn more? Connect with Cristie Besu and Boundless Vitality at https://www.instagram.com/boundlessvitalitymiami or https://www.boundlessvitalityinc.com/

Subscribe & Review: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Counseling Corner for more insightful conversations on health and wellness!

For more on Cristina and Gabi, you can

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Released: February 6, 2025

Guest: Lucia Fernandez Silveira, LMFT

Hosted by: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach and Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Episode Description: In this episode of The Counseling Corner, we dive into It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover—a novel that has sparked deep conversations about love, resilience, and the cycle of abuse. We explore the psychological themes in the book, discuss its impact on readers, and share professional insights on recognizing unhealthy relationships and breaking generational patterns.

What You'll Learn: ✔️ How It Ends With Us portrays domestic violence and emotional resilience ✔️ The psychology behind difficult relationship dynamics ✔️ The importance of self-worth and setting boundaries ✔️ How real-life experiences shape our understanding of love and trauma

Who Should Listen? Anyone who has read It Ends With Us, enjoys book discussions with a psychological lens, or wants to learn more about the emotional and mental health themes in the novel.

Resources:

https://www.thehotline.org/

https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/

https://www.domesticshelters.org/

Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!

For more on Lucia, Cristina and Gabriela, you can check their pages at

Lucia Fernandez Silveira, LMFT

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Episode Title: #107 Do SMART Goals Still Work?

Released: January 9, 2025

Hosted by: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach and Emy Fernandez, MBA, Life Coach

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Counseling Corner, we take a deep dive into the classic goal-setting framework: SMART goals. While they’ve been a go-to method for decades, do they still hold up in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world? We explore how this system can help you stay focused, whether it’s still relevant, and when it might fall short.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• A quick refresher: What are SMART goals?
• The pros and cons of setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• When SMART goals work best—and when they might limit creativity or adaptability.
• Real-world examples of people using SMART goals successfully (and when they didn’t).
• How to evolve your goal-setting approach to fit your unique needs and circumstances.

Who Is This Episode For? This episode is perfect for anyone looking to level up their personal or professional goals, including entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and anyone curious about self-improvement.

Blogs & Podcasts

Emy Fernandez’s Blog on indecisions: Blog on Indecisions

Ricardo Sardiña’s Blog on goals and fears: Blog on Goals and Fears

James Clear’s Blog on goal setting: Blog on Goal Setting

The Counseling Corner Podcast on New Year Resolutions: New Year Resolutions - Do They Work?

Jenna Kutcher Podcast on goals: Forget Traditional Goal Setting

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: We’d love to hear from you! Are you using SMART goals, or have you found an alternative that works better? Connect with us on @coralgablescounselingcenter and share your thoughts.

Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!

For more on Cristina and Emy, you can check their pages at

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Emy Fernandez, MBA, Certified Life Coach

Title: New Year Resolutions - Do They Work?

Released: January 2, 2025

Featuring: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Hosted by: Emy Fernandez, MBA, Life Coach

Each January, millions embrace the tradition of New Year’s resolutions, seeking a fresh start. But why do we set these goals, and why do so many of them fail? In this episode, we explore the psychology behind resolutions, common pitfalls, and strategies for success.

Resolutions represent a firm decision for change, fueled by optimism and the symbolic reset of a new year. Popular goals include weight loss, career advancement, and improving relationships. However, despite good intentions, many resolutions falter due to vague goals, unrealistic expectations, and the "all or nothing" mindset. Without a clear plan, setbacks often derail progress.

Statistics reveal a high failure rate: only 8% of people achieve their resolutions, and many abandon them by mid-January. This highlights the need to focus on small, achievable goals. Using the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and celebrating progress can keep motivation alive. Accountability tools, social support, and self-compassion after setbacks are critical for long-term success.

For those who find resolutions too rigid, consider alternatives like setting broad intentions or choosing a theme for the year (e.g., "Growth" or "Balance"). These flexible approaches allow for adaptability and personal growth without the pressure of perfection. Remember, forming lasting habits takes time—far beyond January—and adjusting goals as needed ensures they remain effective.

Ultimately, it’s okay to forgo resolutions entirely. Reflecting on your needs without external pressure can lead to organic growth. Whether you set goals or not, the key is patience, flexibility, and self-compassion. Share your experiences with resolutions—what’s worked, what hasn’t—and join us in embracing meaningful progress this year.

For more on Emy or Cristina you can check their pages at:

Emy Fernandez, MBA, Life Coach

Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Title: #105 Navigating the 1st Trimester of Pregnancy

Released: December 19, 2024

Featuring:  Tiffany Perez, LMHC

Hosted by: Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach and Emy Fernandez, MBA, Life Coach

Episode Title: Navigating the First Trimester of Pregnancy

Description: In this first episode of a series of The Counseling Corner, Emy and Titi dive into the joys, challenges, and changes of the first trimester of pregnancy with Tiffany Perez.  Tiffany joins them to share her insights and experiences. From hormonal shifts to emotional highs and lows, they discuss what to expect during weeks 1–12 of pregnancy and how to navigate this transformative time.

Episode Highlights:

1. Introduction to the First Trimester

• Overview of the first trimester: what happens during weeks 1–12.
• Major physical changes: morning sickness, fatigue, and breast tenderness.
• Emotional changes: balancing excitement, anxiety, and mood swings.

2. Hormonal and Physical Changes

• How hormonal shifts drive physical and emotional changes.
• Common symptoms: nausea, bloating, and frequent urination.
• Practical tips for managing early pregnancy discomforts.

3. Mental Health in the First Trimester

• Understanding the emotional rollercoaster: anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.
• How hormonal changes can influence mood.
• Strategies for prioritizing mental well-being during early pregnancy.

4. Coping with First Trimester Fatigue

• Why fatigue is common in early pregnancy and how to manage it.
• Balancing work, family, and personal time while dealing with energy dips.
• Rest, relaxation, and self-care tips to recharge.

5. Navigating the Emotional Impact

• Addressing the fear of miscarriage and its effect on mental health.
• Managing the “waiting to announce” period emotionally.
• Tips for handling emotional highs and lows with mindfulness.

6. Self-Care and Support Systems

• Building a self-care routine for physical and mental well-being.
• The importance of seeking support from partners, friends, and professionals.
• How to establish a reliable support system during early pregnancy.

7. The Pregnant Partner’s Experience

• How partners or co-parents can actively support the pregnant person.
• Open communication to address emotional needs together.
• Ways to ensure mutual understanding and teamwork.

8. Working While Pregnant

• Navigating work-life balance with pregnancy symptoms.
• Adjustments like flexible hours and remote work to ease the load.
• Tips on communicating needs with employers.

9. Looking Forward to the Next Trimester

• A sneak peek at what to expect in the second trimester: physical relief and new challenges.
• Preparing for the transition into this exciting next phase of pregnancy.

Key Takeaways:

• The first trimester is a time of significant physical and emotional changes.
• Hormones play a major role in shaping symptoms and moods, but self-care and support are vital.
• Mental health is as important as physical health during early pregnancy.
• Communication and a strong support system make navigating the first trimester easier.

Connect With Us: Follow The Counseling Corner for more conversations on mental health, wellness, and personal growth. Don’t forget to tune in next time as we explore the second trimester of pregnancy!

For more on Tiffany, Cristina and Emy, you can check their pages at

Tiffany Perez, LMHC

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Emy Fernandez, MBA, Certified Life Coach

Released: December 5, 2024

Featuring:  Nicole Herdocia-Oria, LMFT

Hosted by: Gabriela Reyes, LMFT and Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Description: 

In this uplifting episode of The Counseling Corner, we dive into the transformative power of laughter and its profound connection to healing. Our guest, Nicole Herdocia-Oria, shares wutg Gabi and Titi, insights into how humor can be a bridge to resilience, a tool for processing trauma, and a way to foster deeper connections in our relationships. Whether you’re looking to bring more joy into your life or seeking ways to navigate life’s challenges, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable advice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The science behind laughter: how it impacts your brain and body
• Why laughter is a natural stress reliever and mood booster
• The connection between humor and healing from trauma
• Tips for cultivating laughter and joy in everyday life
• Personal anecdotes and stories about how humor has transformed lives

Resources and Links:

Laughter plays a vital role in enhancing our physical health, mental well-being, and social connections. To delve deeper into its significance, consider exploring the following resources:

Books:

·      “Go Ahead and Make Fun of Your Friends” by David Shoemaker: This book examines the ethics of everyday humor, highlighting how informal jokes and teasing among close friends and family can foster solidarity and connection.

·      “How Much Is Enough? Getting More By Living With Less” by Claire Berger: Berger, a comedian, explores the concept of “enough” in various life aspects, emphasizing the importance of humor for personal and professional growth.

·      The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk

Podcasts:

Coral Gables Counseling Center’s  On the Podcast: Dancing Through Cancer: A family shares their inspiring journey and practical tips on how they navigated a challenging time when two family members were diagnosed with cancer simultaneously.

“Laughter Research”: This show delves into the role of laughter in daily life, featuring insights from psychologists, sociologists, entrepreneurs, and comedians.“Laughter & Positivity with Pete”: Hosted by Pete Cann, this podcast discusses the positive effects of laughter and incorporates interviews with laughter professionals.

“Hidden Brain – Laughter: The Best Medicine”: This episode explores the various facets of laughter, from joyous cackles among friends to the “canned” mirth of TV laugh tracks, and discusses its impact on our lives.

Documentaries:

·      “Laughology”: Directed by Albert Nerenberg, this 2009 documentary investigates the contagiousness of human laughter and its significance in human civilization.

Articles:

·      “The Importance of Laughter” by Providence: This article outlines how laughter boosts the immune system, decreases pain, enhances longevity, and promotes bonding.

·      “Humor Research” (Wikipedia): This entry provides an overview of the study of humor, including its physical and mental health benefits.

·      Engaging with these resources can provide a comprehensive understanding of how laughter enriches various aspects of life.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review The Counseling Corner. Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who could use a little laughter in their life!

Let us know: How has laughter played a role in your own healing journey? Connect with us on @coralgablescounselingcenter 

For more on Nikki, Titi and Gabi, you can check their pages at

Nicole Herdocia-Oria, LMFT

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Certified Life Coach

Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Title: #103 🔓 Unlock Connection Now with Relational Therapy ❤️

Released: November 28, 2024

Featuring:  Bianca Gabay, National Certified Counselor

Hosted by: Emy Fernandez, MBA, Certified Life Coach and Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Life Coach

Description: 

In this episode, we welcome Bianca Gabay, a registered intern at Coral Gables Counseling Center and a student of relational therapy.

Emy and Titi sit down with Bianca to explore the transformative power of relational therapy in fostering deeper connections—both with us and with others.

Bianca sheds light on how healthy relationships profoundly influence our emotions, physical health, and overall happiness. She emphasizes the importance of slowing down and grounding ourselves as a foundation for overcoming common relationship challenges such as miscommunication, trust issues, and feelings of disconnection.

The conversation also digs into how past experiences can shape our current relationships.  Bianca shares insights on recognizing these patterns, helping us build awareness and work toward more fulfilling connections.

For more on Bianca, Cristina and Emy, you can check their pages at 

Bianca Gabay, National Certified Counselor 

Cristina N. Fernandez, Esq., Certified Life Coach

Emy Fernandez, MBA, Certified Life Coach

Resources:

Following are the two books by Terrence Real discussed in the podcast.  Both can be found on Amazon.

Us: Getting Past You & Me to Build a More Loving Relationship

I Don’t Want to Talk About It

Title: #102 Men and Trauma

Released: November 21, 2024

Featuring:  Carlos Escanilla, LMHC

Hosted by: Cristina Nicole Fernandez, Esq., LMHC and Gabriela Reyes, LMFT

Description: 

In this powerful episode of The Counseling Corner, Gabi and Titi dive deep into the often-overlooked topic of men and trauma with our guest. Our guest, Carlos Escanilla, LMHC, shares invaluable insights into how societal expectations, cultural norms, and personal experiences shape men’s responses to trauma.

Together, we explore the barriers men face in seeking help, the importance of addressing emotional wounds, and practical steps for healing.

Whether you’re a man navigating your own journey, a loved one supporting someone through trauma, or simply interested in understanding this critical issue, this episode is packed with meaningful perspectives and actionable advice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Common misconceptions about men and trauma.
• The role of societal norms in shaping men’s emotional expression.
• How trauma impacts men differently than women.
• Why it’s essential to normalize vulnerability for healing.
• Practical tips for supporting men through their trauma journey.

Connect With Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @coralgablescounselingcenter
• Email us your thoughts or questions: [Your Email]
• Learn more about Carlos Escanilla, LMHC; Gabriela Reyes, LMFT and Cristina Fernandez, Esq., Certified Life Coach

Share the Love! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who could benefit from this conversation.