In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Dr. Mark McNear interviews Dr. David Grand, the developer of Brain Spotting, a psychotherapy technique particularly effective for trauma. They discuss the principles of Brain Spotting, its discovery, and how it differs from other therapeutic approaches. The conversation includes a role-play demonstration, insights into the healing process, and the importance of following the client's lead in therapy. Dr. Grand emphasizes the developmental nature of trauma and the need for a compassionate, attuned therapeutic relationship. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of Brain Spotting and its potential to help those with trauma.

takeaways

• Brain Spotting is effective for both single and complex trauma.
• The eyes are deeply connected to emotional processing.
• Therapists should follow the client's lead in therapy.
• Healing involves moving from the past to the present.
• The nervous system knows how to heal itself.
• Trauma manifestations are natural responses to unnatural circumstances.
• Shame and guilt are often passed from perpetrators to survivors.
• Everything in therapy is developmental.
• Brain Spotting can be integrated with other therapeutic modalities.
• The future of Brain Spotting holds great potential for healing.

About our guest:

David Grand, PhD is the developer of Brainspotting, the groundbreaking relational brain-body-mindfulness-based method. He is the author of Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change and the co-author of This is Your Brain on Sports. Dr. Grand is involved in humanitarian activities with survivors of 9/11, Katrina, and Sandy Hook/Newtown. He has accomplished breakthroughs in performance and creativity with Brainspotting Sports Work and Brainspotting Acting Coaching. Dr. Grand has been widely featured in the media, including The NY Times, NBC National News, The Discovery Channel, CNN, MSNBC, Sports Illustrated, and Sirius Radio. 

Website: https://brainspotting.com/

Book: Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change by David Grand

https://amzn.to/4dDSVzP

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/

Connect with Dr. Mark McNear

https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

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Dr. Lindsay Gibson is back just in time for Mother's Day.

About our Guest: Dr. Lindsay Gibson is a clinical psychologist and the author of the Emotional Immaturity series of books, including her bestseller Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents.

In this conversation, Monique and Lindsay discuss the complexities of navigating Mother's Day emotions, particularly for those with emotionally immature parents. They explore the conflicting feelings of grief and obligation, the importance of self-validation, and practical tips for managing relationships during this challenging time. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-care and reconnecting with one's true self to foster personal growth and healing.

Takeaways

• Mother's Day can evoke mixed emotions, including grief and obligation.
• It's important to honour your own feelings during this holiday.
• Emotional immaturity in parents can complicate relationships.
• Self-validation is crucial for emotional well-being.
• Finding a balance between honouring a parent and honouring oneself is key.
• It's okay to choose how to engage with emotionally immature parents.
• Reconnecting with oneself is essential for personal growth.
• Practicing self-care can help manage emotional turmoil.
• Taking a pause to reflect on feelings can lead to better self-understanding.

Find Lindsay's books here:

Adult children of Emotionally Immature Parents

https://amzn.to/4kpLu1l

Recovering from Emotionally Immature Parents: Practical Tools to Establish Boundaries and Reclaim Your Emotional Autonomy 

https://amzn.to/42YKdHg

Self-Care for Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: Honor Your Emotions, Nurture Your Self, and Live with Confidence

https://amzn.to/3RTG6XX

Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People: Avoid Emotional Traps, Stand Up for Your Self, and Transform Your Relationships as an Adult Child of Emotionally Immature Parents

https://amzn.to/44qhHRo

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

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Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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In this conversation, host Monique Koven and author and survivor Kelly Jean Torres discuss the profound themes of trauma, healing, and the complexities of relationships stemming from Kelly's memoir, 'Saving the Lost Girl.' They explore Kelly's early life experiences, including her adoption, the abuse she faced in foster care, and the impact of these experiences on her self-worth and relationships as an adult. The discussion emphasizes the importance of therapy, the ongoing journey of healing, and the power of storytelling to reclaim one's narrative and foster understanding in others.

takeaways

• Kelly's memoir is a raw and authentic account of her life.
• The impact of childhood trauma can persist into adulthood.
• Isolation in foster care can exacerbate feelings of worthlessness.
• Therapy can help individuals process trauma and rebuild self-worth.
• Relationships can be complicated for trauma survivors, often leading to codependency.
• Understanding one's triggers is crucial for healing.
• Empowerment comes from reclaiming one's story and sharing it with others.
• The foster care system often fails to protect vulnerable children.
• Shame can stem from a lack of validation and support during childhood.
• Healing is a continuous journey that requires self-reflection and growth.

Find Kelly here:https://www.instagram.com/kellyjeantorres1/

Kelly's book available here: https://amzn.to/3Gk05N1

BEGINS MONDAY APRIL 28/25 Free online conference

SIGN UP HERE: Attachment, Trauma & Toxic Relationships Super Conference April 28 - May 4, 2025

Register free :https://xz684.isrefer.com/go/ATTRSC/monique

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

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Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Kimberly Weeks speaks with Simone Saunders, a licensed therapist and founder of The Cognitive Corner. They explore the importance of somatic therapy in addressing trauma, emphasizing the need for safety in therapeutic relationships and the integration of mind and body. The conversation delves into the challenges of resistance and disconnection in clients, the impact of toxic relationships on identity, and the necessity of building internal safety. Simone shares tools for regulating the nervous system and highlights the significance of cultural responsiveness in therapy.

Follow Simone on Instagram   / thecognitivecorner  

Follow Simone on Tiktok   / thecognitivecorner  

Kimberly Weeks supports survivors of narcissistic abuse and is an accomplished instructor and coach in leadership development and business coaching. She is also a specialist in rupture and repair, helping individuals and organizations navigate and heal from interpersonal conflicts and challenges. 

Kimberly Weeks | Narcissistic Abuse Recovery for Women

Certified Trauma Care Practitioner & Supervisor

Follow Kimberly Weeks:

https://www.instagram.com/iamkimberlyweeks/?hl=en

SIGN UP HERE: Attachment, Trauma & Toxic Relationships Super Conference April 28 - May 4, 2025

Register free :https://xz684.isrefer.com/go/ATTRSC/monique

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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Re Releasing this informative conversation with psychologist & Somatic Experiencing faculty member Dr. Maureen Gallagher.

In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, host Monique Koven engages with trauma expert Maureen Gallagher to explore the complexities of trauma, its impact on the body and mind, and effective healing modalities. They discuss the significance of understanding developmental and complex trauma, the role of attachment, and the importance of a gentle, titrated approach to healing. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness of one's nervous system responses and the integration of somatic experiencing with interrelational focusing to foster resilience and healing.

Takeaways:

Understanding trauma's impact on the body is crucial for recovery.

• Developmental trauma can lead to complex PTSD if not addressed.
• Attachment plays a significant role in how trauma affects individuals.
• Shutdown and hyperactivation are common responses to trauma.
• Titration is a key concept in gradually expanding resilience.
• Trauma responses can persist long after the traumatic event has passed.
• Slow and steady healing is more effective than rushing into trauma narratives.
• The cortex often misguides individuals in their healing journey.

Find Maureen: https://maureengallagherphd.com/

Attachment, Trauma & Toxic Relationships Super Conference April 28 - May 4

Register free :https://xz684.isrefer.com/go/ATTRSC/monique

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Our Sponsors:
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Trigger warning: This episode includes mentions of faith, discussed in a safe and respectful manner.

In this conversation, Monique Koven and Tabitha Westbrook discuss the complexities of healing from trauma, particularly in the context of faith and the church. Tabitha shares her expertise as a licensed therapist specializing in complex trauma, domestic abuse, and coercive control, and emphasizes the importance of empathy, embodiment, and self-compassion in the healing process. They explore the church's role in addressing trauma and sexuality, the need for honest conversations, and practical steps for individuals seeking healing. The discussion highlights the significance of recognizing one's worth and the journey towards recovery, filled with hope and actionable insights.

Tabitha's new book: Body & Soul ,Healed & Whole, An Invitational guide To healthy Sexuality After Trauma ,Abuse & Coercive Control.

👉 Order the book here:https://amzn.to/3FT0aXB

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Attachment, Trauma & Toxic Relationships Super Conference April 28 - May 4

Register free :https://xz684.isrefer.com/go/ATTRSC/monique

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

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Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, we are revisiting an episode which was originally recorded in 2022. My guest is licensed therapist Colleen West and author of the book "We All Have Parts, An Illustrated Guide To Healing Trauma with Internal Family Systems".

We chat about various therapeutic approaches, including Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the concept of the window of tolerance. The conversation delves into how trauma manifests in symptoms, the importance of understanding self-energy, and the impact of pre-verbal trauma on individuals. Colleen shares insights on the role of protectors in therapy and the significance of attachment in relationships, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of trauma and healing.

Find Coleen West's Book :

We All Have Parts: An Illustrated Guide To Healing Trauma with Internal Family Systems

https://amzn.to/4bRaKKP

https://www.colleenwest.com

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

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Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, Guest Host, Dr. Mark McNear interviews Benjamin Fry, a psychotherapist and founder of Khiron Clinics. Benjamin shares his personal journey through trauma, detailing his experiences with anxiety, suicidal ideation, and the impact of his early childhood loss. He discusses the complexities of trauma, the importance of understanding its effects on relationships, and the ongoing process of healing. The conversation also touches on the innovative approaches in trauma therapy, including EMDR and somatic experiencing, and the potential of technology in understanding and managing trauma responses.

takeaways

• Benjamin Fry shares his journey through trauma and recovery.
• He emphasizes the exaggerated physiological reactions to stress and anxiety.
• The importance of understanding trauma's impact on relationships is highlighted.
• Healing trauma is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.
• The role of early childhood experiences in shaping adult behavior is discussed.
• Innovative therapies like EMDR and somatic experiencing are effective in trauma recovery.
• The significance of community and relational dynamics in healing is explored.
• Benjamin's passion lies in helping others navigate their trauma.

Benjamin Fry is the founder of Khiron Clinics, one of the world's leading residential trauma-treatment centers, and Televagal, an innovative mental health technology platform. An accredited psychotherapist, couples therapist, speaker, author, and entrepreneur, he has written four books, including The Invisible Lion: How to Tame your Nervous System and Heal your Trauma. With a diverse career spanning psychology, media, and business, Benjamin read Physics and Philosophy at Oxford and then attended film school, directing a feature-length film distributed by HBO and Paramount.

Khiron Clinics

https://khironclinics.com

Benjamin Fry

https://www.benjaminfry.co.uk

Benjamin's Book:

The Invisible Lion: How Tame your Nervous system and heal your Trauma

https://amzn.to/3DRKgvT

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Guest host

Mark McNear website:

https://markmcnear.com/

IG https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear

Follow Monique on IG

https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Our Sponsors:
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In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, Monique is chatting with psychologist and author Dr. Sherrie Campbell. Sherrie shares her insights on navigating the complexities of emotional abuse and toxic family dynamics. Drawing from her personal experiences and professional expertise, she discusses the importance of establishing boundaries, taking responsibility for one's own healing, and transforming pain into purpose. Dr. Campbell emphasizes that not all parents are good and that recognizing toxic relationships is crucial for mental health and personal growth. The conversation highlights the journey of healing and the empowerment that comes from understanding one's worth and setting healthy boundaries.

takeaways

• Dr. Sherrie Campbell has written multiple books on toxic family dynamics.
• Emotional abuse can be subtle and often goes unrecognized.
• Establishing boundaries is essential for personal healing.
• It's important to take responsibility for your own mental health.
• Healing involves becoming the person you were meant to be.
• Not all parents are good, and it's okay to cut ties.
• Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for well-being.
• Recognizing toxic relationships is crucial for mental health.
• Transforming pain into purpose can lead to personal growth.
• It's never too late to realize that your life matters.

To Get in Touch with Dr. Sherrie:https://drsherriecampbell.com/

Sherapy Sessions: Cutting Toxic Family Ties Podcast:https://drsherriecampbell.com/cutting...

*Sherrie's Books:

Adult Survivors Of Emotionally Abusive Parents:

https://amzn.to/4ihLAaa

Adult Survivors Of Toxic Family Members

https://amzn.to/4ilVw2p

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Attachment, Trauma & Toxic Relationships Super Conference April 28 - May 4/2025

Register free :https://xz684.isrefer.com/go/ATTRSC/monique

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

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Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Our Sponsors:
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Today I am sharing my second interview with trauma therapist and author of Aundi Kolber. Her latest book is Take What You Need, Soft Words For Hard Days. We continue our conversation on the necessity of compassion and gentleness in the healing process. Aundi emphasizes the ebb and flow of healing, the significance of recognizing and validating personal needs, and the impact of developmental trauma on emotional health. She also explores the role of shame in hindering healing and the necessity of embodied knowledge in therapy. The discussion concludes with a focus on the power of language in facilitating healing and the hope that her book can serve as a valuable resource for those on their healing journeys.

Podcast highlights:

• Healing should be approached with gentleness and compassion.
• The process of healing is not linear; it has ebbs and flows.
• Compassion is essential in therapeutic settings.
• Recognizing and validating our needs is crucial for healing.
• Developmental trauma can have long-lasting effects on individuals.
• Shame can prevent us from expressing our needs and seeking help.
• Our bodies possess wisdom about our needs, even when we are unaware.
• Healing often requires a thawing process to access buried emotions.
• Language can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
• Resources like books can provide support on the healing journey.
• 
  

Grab Aundi’s book “Take What You Need: Soft Words for Hard Days”

You can also find her previous books, Strong Like Water and Try Softer.

https://amzn.to/4hLIxqY

Aundi Kolber’s – Website and Instagram

If you're struggling, consider therapy with our paid partner. Visit

https://betterhelp.com/healingtrauma during signup and get 10% off your first month of therapy.

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.

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Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Our Sponsors:
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