The GRACE Matrix®

The GRACE Matrix®

By Dr. Maria Grace WolkHealth & FitnessMental Health
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The GRACE Matrix® episodes

  • [Special Episode 26] Guided Meditation for Stress & Worries~ You Can Use Now!

    In the previous episode, I promised a recorded Guided Meditation for Anxiety support that has helped me calm my racing mind. I highly recommend using headphones to listen and practice this meditation as we embark on a journey to embrace the power of breath, visualization, and self-compassion to relax the mind and nurture our inner peace.

    In our fast-paced and often demanding lives, anxiety has become a common companion for many. It can manifest as a constant worry, racing thoughts, or a general sense of unease that disrupts our well-being and hinders our ability to experience life fully.

    Fortunately, guided meditation offers a powerful tool for finding solace and tranquility within ourselves. By combining soothing verbal guidance with gentle imagery and relaxation techniques, guided meditation provides a pathway to calm the mind, release tension, and cultivate a profound sense of peace.

    Get your headphones ready and find a quiet and comfortable space, make yourself at ease, and let us begin this transformative exploration.  

    * Please note that this guided meditation is not a substitute for professional help. If you are experiencing severe anxiety or mental health concerns, we encourage you to seek appropriate support from a qualified healthcare provider. Take care of yourself, and let us now embark on this healing journey together.


    Listen on Youtube: https://youtu.be/vKWOnEf-Jcw

    38 min
  • Ep.25: Beyond the Surface

    Welcome to Season 3 ~ Beyond the Surface

    The Grace Matrix Own Your Journey podcast starts a new season with a focus on exploring diverse healing journeys; from ancient practices to modern modalities. So please join us as we venture into the realms of mindfulness, meditation, energy healing, somatic therapy, astrology, creative expressions, dancing, martial arts, and so much more.  I’m really excited about this. I encourage you to embrace your individuality, recognizing that what works for one may not work for another because your path will be different from those around you, and that's perfectly okay. It is through honoring who we are that we can unlock our potential for growth and transformation within ourselves. 


    In this episode, I share my personal experience with anxiety and how running and meditation helped me find balance and relief. If you want to start your mindfulness and self-discovery journey, the key is  self-awareness and self-acceptance.


    I hope this episode will inspire you to take that first step towards your own healing journey. If you're interested in learning more about mindfulness and self-discovery, be sure to check out my website and Self-Discovery Workbook. 


    And don't forget to subscribe to my Youtube channel or join my email list to be notified when my guided meditation is available.


    Own Your Journey!

    In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to wellness and fulfillment.

    Is there anything keeping you from changing your life? Watch my TEDx talk https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw to learn what happened when I left my comfort zone.

    17 min
  • EP.24: “From Fear to Flavor: A Chef’s Rise to Courage”
    I'm excited welcome back Kim Gamble, the Queen of Thai Cuisine, as seen on the Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay & Chopped. She was on The Grace Matrix™ Own You Journey-Episode 12: "The Power of Difference: A Story of Entrepreneurial Success Stemming from a Unique Upbringing", Where she shared with us her experience being on Beat Bobby Flay, the Food Network’s Cooking competition with Bobby Flay,  If you all missed it, feel free to go back and take a listen, it’s truly inspiring. Today she’s back to give us an update on what she’s been up to since she decided to not let her fears get in the way; including being back on the Food Network Channel’s, Chopped.  Listen in as she takes us behind the scenes of her journey and find out what keeps her going.   
    Topics Discussed
    Behind the scenes on The Food Network Channel,  Chopped
    How pushing beyond her comfort zone transformed her to a a version of herself that loves to try new things and put herself out there more. 
    How she struggled with her confidence due to fear of failure. 
    What motivates her. 
    How she sees her success as a group effort. 
    About Kimberly Gamble:
    Kim Gamble; Thai- American, entrepreneur, chef, and the owner and founder of Lucky Bird CA and Lanna Thai Restaurant. 
    Connect with Kim: website: http://www.lannathailivermore.com/
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/chefkimberly.s.gamble
    Ready to Redefine Your Happiness? View it here: https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw
    Own Your Journey!
    In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck.
    Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to a mind, body, and energy wellness and fulfillment.
    https://youtu.be/qM2grjLTzPE
    26 min
  • Ep. 23: "Reframing Adoption: How to Overcome Stigma and Embrace Your Unique Story" with Christine Martinez-Suzukawa

    The GRACE Matrix™ Own Your Journey

    "Reframing Adoption: How to Overcome Stigma and Embrace Your Unique Story"

    with Christine Martinez-Suzukawa, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Life Coach & Happiness Researcher

    In this podcast, therapist Christine Martinez-Suzukawa shares her personal journey as an adopted child. Being adopted has not always been easy for Christine, citing that being an adopted child contributed to her depression and suicidal thoughts. But going through therapy really helped her in learning how to love herself and heal. 

    Join us and learn more about the challenges adopted children face and how kindness and acceptance can help them thrive. 

    Top Reasons To Listen: 

    • Understand how being an adoptee can contribute to an individual's mental health. 
    • How therapy can help you learn to be your own maternal figure.
    • What you can do if you are still experiencing depression.
    • Tips and helpful exercises that people can do to practice self-love.
    • About Christine Martinez-Suzukawa:

      Christine is a somatic oriented and trauma trained marriage and family therapist living in Hawaii and is licensed in both Hawaii and California. She is the daughter of an immigrant Mexican mother and is a transracial adoptee. Christine has worked with children and adolescents in public schools for over 20 years, providing mental health services, mindfulness education to students and school staff, and has been a coach for the Girls on the Run program at several of her schools.

      Christine is an entrepreneur and owner of Choice Point Psychotherapy, a private practice where she helps adults overcome their fears of living life fully by teaching them to connect with all parts of themselves in order to heal and access their full potential. Christine believes in treating the whole person and enjoys thinking outside the box when it comes to living a fulfilling life and cultivating our overall well being. 

      Connect with Christine: 

      • LinkedIn | christine-martinez-suzukawa

      • Instagram | @christinemartinezsuzukawa

      • Ready to Redefine Your Happiness? View it here: https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw

        Own Your Journey!

        In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to a mind, body, and energy wellness and fulfillment.


        33 min
      • Ep.22: "The Fine Line: Navigating Situationships and Maintaining Your Self Worth"

        The GRACE Matrix™ Own Your Journey

        "The Fine Line: Navigating Situationships and Maintaining Your Self Worth"

        It's not uncommon for people to want to change themselves in relationships in order to please their partner. But it's vital for your well being, that you do not neglect your own needs, values, and authentic selves.

        In this episode, Dontea Mitchell-Hunter shares her experiences from previous relationships and interactions with family that led her to becoming more aware of her self-worth. We talk about relationships and the complexities of modern dating and how women can adapt and flourish. All these experiences and realizations led Dontea to become a self-worth coach and therapist who empowers women to discover their value and self-worth and find their own happiness. 

        Listen to Dontea's personal experiences and expert advice so you too can find your self worth while navigating your relationships with confidence and clarity. 

        Topics Discussed

        • Dontea’s shares her story

        • Helping women find their self worth

        • Dontea’s passion for helping and empowering women 

        • Three tips on how to maneuver your situationship

        • About Dontea Mitchell Hunter:

          Dontea is a self worth coach, therapist, and speaker that helps melanated women get out of unfulfilling relationships and recreate self love and happiness. Single or partnered, she wants women to know their worth doesn't come from being in a relationship, nor what others think of them. Dontea is also the CEO of In Therapy, an online private practice, and the host of Situation Sh!t. 

          Listen on her podcast

          Apple | podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/situationsh-t

          Connect with Dontea:

          • Website | www.soireesintherapy.com

          • LinkedIn | Dontea' Mitchell-Hunter - Therapists - Psychology Today

          • Instagram | @soireesintherapy

          • TikTok | @donteamitchellhunter



          • Discover the invisible barrier that holds you back

            In order to have more, we have to get comfortable being our authentic selves by facing our fears. Find out what your obstacles are so you can prevent them from standing in the way. Click here



            Ready to Redefine Your Happiness? View it here: https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw

            Own Your Journey!

            In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to a mind, body, and energy wellness and fulfillment.



            • Self-worth

            • Relationships

            • Boundaries

            • Personal growth

            • Therapy

            • Situationships

            • Empowerment

            • Communication

            • Authenticity

            • Healing


            • 29 min
            • Ep. 21: Letting Go of Old Beliefs To Heal with Steph Tuazon

              In this episode, our guest Steph Tuazon talks about how through self-discovery, she was able to reconnect with herself and was able to heal from the trauma she’s experienced in her past. 


              How taking up space may be difficult, especially for people of color. How challenging it might be to be mindful about not using her successes to define her and how discrimination, trauma, and microaggression can all substantially influence one’s growth.


              When healing from trauma, it is necessary to understand where our beliefs are rooted and does it feel true to us. Music and dance are also effective therapeutic techniques to divert your energy.



              Topics Discussed:


              • The challenges of taking up space and how uncomfortable it can be, especially as a person of color
              • Being intentional about not relying solely on her accomplishments to define her and how she shows up
              • The impact of discrimination, trauma, and microaggression
              • The process of self-discovery and how Steph reconnected with herself
              • Decolonizing pleasure
              • Harmful mindsets about money
              • The Filipino Myth of the “Manananggal” and concepts of sexuality and pleasure in different cultures
              • Healing through therapy, nature, and relationships
              • The importance of feeling safe and exploring safe positions in your body
              • Incorporating music and dance as a way to process and explore trauma

              • You can find Steph Tuazon here:


                • Website | www.hiyatherapy.com

                • About Steph Tuazon


                  Stephanie Tuazon is a Pinay/Pilipinx-American therapist seeking to create a healing environment and safer container for those looking to explore their identities, purpose, and authenticity. They are on unceded Tongva territory (Los Angeles) with parents who immigrated from the Philippines (Tagalog and Kapampangan ancestry). Steph is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. They received their Master of Social Welfare from the University of California Los Angeles. She has a Bachelor of Science in Medical Sociology with a minor in Gerontology from Mount St. Mary’s University Los Angeles.




                  Own Your Journey!

                  In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to wellness and fulfillment.


                    Is there anything keeping you from changing your life? Watch my TEDx talk https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw to learn what happened when I left my comfort zone.


                    35 min
                  • Ep 20: "Winning Against All Odds" A Journey From Gambling Addiction to Entrepreneurial Success

                    Gambling can lead to addiction because it stimulates the brain's reward system. The thrill of winning can create a rush of dopamine in the brain, which can turn into a cycle of chasing bets that lead to losses to recreate that feeling. This can result in financial problems, relationship issues, and other negative consequences, including thoughts of ending one’s life.

                    This is the story of my guest.  

                    An innocent game of poker that led to a cycle of unhealthy choices and feelings of defeat that he thought would never end.

                    In today's episode, I talk with Patrick Casale, a group practice owner, private practice coach, podcast host, and retreat planner, as he shares his struggle with gambling addiction and how he was able to turn the tables to success.

                    It's important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction. Resources available, such as therapy, support groups, and treatment programs, can help individuals overcome their addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

                    The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) is available 24/7 and is 100% confidential.

                    GamblersAnonymous

                    Topics Discussed:

                    • Gambling addiction as a form of escapism
                    • The cycle of addiction
                    • The lack of Addiction Therapists
                    • Importance of self-awareness during the healing process
                    • Behavioral patterns and breaking undesired patterns
                    • Challenges of working in community mental health and leaving to start a private practice
                    • Patrick’s success as an entrepreneur with retreats, podcasts, and group practice
                    • Neurodivergence and the importance of understanding  boredom, creativity and stimulation
                    • You can find Patrick Casale:

                      • Website | www.allthingspractice.com
                      • Facebook Page | www.facebook.com/CasaleCoaching
                      • Instagram | @allthingsprivatepractice
                      • LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/patrickcasale-privatepracticestrategist
                      • Tik Tok | @casalecoaching
                      • About Patrick Casale:

                        Patrick Casale has been working in the helping profession since 2008. Starting his career in community mental health to becoming an entrepreneur.  Patrick successfully launched his private practice, followed by a thriving group practice a couple of years later. With his personal experience and expertise, Patrick is passionate about empowering therapists to create successful lives and careers.

                        —-----------

                        Discover the invisible barrier that holds you back

                        In order to have more, we have to get comfortable being our authentic selves by facing our fears. Find out what your obstacles are so you can prevent them from standing in the way. Click here

                        Ready to Redefine Your Happiness? View it here: https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw

                        Own Your Journey!

                        In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to a mind, body, and energy wellness and fulfillment.

                        26 min
                      • Ep.19: Name It, Tame It, Reframe Vicarious Trauma with Dr. Jenny Hughes

                        isredivsredivo 

                        Dr. Jenny Hughes is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. As a clinician, she practices EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure therapy. Jenny recently published a workbook designed for clients to use on their own or with their therapist called the PTSD Recovery Workbook.

                        Through her clinical work, Jenny has been able to also support fellow trauma therapists through the common experience of vicarious trauma. As the founder of BRAVE Providers, LLC, Jenny supports trauma therapists go from feeling drained and demoralized to energized and empowered. Members of BRAVE work with Jenny to become more aware of how to identify and overcome vicarious trauma, allowing them to thrive in their professional and personal lives.

                        Topics Discussed:

                        • Jenny’s path towards the mental health profession
                        • Her early years and the challenges she overcame
                        • What it means to  “authentically show up yourself”
                        • Sharing experiences helps clients heal
                        • What is vicarious trauma, and how does it impact our lives
                        • Why trauma therapist are highly at risk for burnout
                        • Diversity, equity, and inclusion in helping professions
                        • Learn about the Brave Providers Collective
                        • Learn helpful tips for taming vicarious trauma
                        • You can find Jenny Hughes here:

                          • Website | www.braveproviders.com/
                          • Facebook Community | www.facebook.com/groups/thebravevicarioustraumacommunity
                          • Instagram | @braveproviders
                          • Tik Tok | @braveproviders
                          • Own Your Journey!

                            In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to wellness and fulfillment.


                            Is there anything keeping you from changing your life?

                            Watch my TEDx talk https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw

                            to learn what happened when I left my comfort zone 


                            36 min
                          • Ep. 18: "We Are Not Taught How To Be Married"

                            William Hemphill II, is a counselor, pastor and speaker.

                            He is the author of the book, “Praying With Your Spouse: A Secret To Building Intimacy In Your Marriage”

                            In his practice he works with individuals who value their faith.

                            Couples who want to strengthen or rebuild their    relationships, and with adoptive families in building loving connections.

                            In this episode William shares how he believes that we are not taught how to be married, how to communicate, and how to handle conflicts and this is the reason why so many marriages end up in divorce.

                            Listen in on how you can help your marriage and your blended family when you learn to understand what he calls the Reactive Cycle.

                            Learn what a faith-based counselor is and how therapist can unknowingly hinder a client’s healing when they are not aware of their beliefs and story.

                            You can find William here:

                            https://www.faithandfamilyempowerment.com

                            The Faith and Family Matters Podcast



                            Own Your Journey!

                            In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to wellness and fulfillment.

                            Is there anything keeping you from changing your life?

                            Watch my TEDx talk https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw

                            to learn what happened when I left my comfort zone

                            34 min
                          • Ep. 17: Inspiration Can Come From Anywhere If We're Willing to Listen

                            It was an honor to be invited to share my story on the TED stage.  

                            In this episode, I share my journey and who inspired me to pursue this dream. 

                            Please reach out if you have any questions, I would love to hear what you think. 

                            My TED talk can be found:

                             https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0A2FXwyAsw

                            It would be greatly appreciated if you could please hit "like", comment, and share the youtube link with those who may benefit from my talk. 

                            The more "likes"  and "views" it receives,  the more that others would be able to find it. 

                            Thank you so much for your continued support!

                            ~Maria Grace 



                            Own Your Journey!

                            In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to wellness and fulfillment.

                            Is there anything keeping you from changing your life?

                            Watch my TEDx talk https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw

                            to learn what happened when I left my comfort zone

                            18 min

                          About The GRACE Matrix®

                          From the publisher's feed

                          Most of us were never taught what fear actually does inside the body and mind. So we mistake anxiety for weakness, anger for failure, and shutting down for giving up.