Reproductive Mental Health, Intersectionality, and Systemic Barriers: Aninterview with Dr. Loree Johnson

Curt and Katie chat with Dr. Loree Johnson about the intersections of reproductive mental health, race, and systemic injustice. Dr. Johnson shared powerful insights about the shame, grief, and medical trauma that many clients face, especially Black women and other folks from

historically marginalized communities. We dive into how therapists can hold safer, more informed spaces for clients experiencing infertility and pregnancy loss, and how systemic racism and historical harm continue to shape reproductive healthcare today.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we talk about reproductive trauma, systemic barriers to care, and the need for cultural humility in therapy

We were honored to sit down with Dr. Loree Johnson, LMFT, PhD—an expert in reproductive mental health who brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation. We explore how therapists can better support clients navigating infertility, pregnancy loss, and trauma, especially clients from marginalized communities.

What do therapists often get wrong about reproductive mental health?

·    Avoiding the conversation about infertility and pregnancy loss because therapists feel undertrained or uncomfortable

·   Therapists overlook the impact of race, history, and oppression in reproductive trauma

·   Assuming fertility issues affect only straight, cisgender couples

·   Minimizing or misunderstanding the grief associated with pregnancy loss and infertility

What is the role of systemic racism and historical trauma for Black womenseeking reproductive care?

·    Mistrust of the medical system due to real, generational harm (e.g., J. Marion Sims, Henrietta Lacks, Tuskegee)

·    Myths of hyper-fertility in Black women and the erasure of infertility struggles in communities of color

·   Disenfranchised grief and cultural stigma around fertility challenges

·   Weathering: the cumulative impact of chronic stress and racism on physical and reproductive health

How can therapists show up better for clients who are experiencinginfertility and pregnancy loss?

·   Learn the terminology and processes around fertility treatments and pregnancy loss

·   Create space for conversations around sex, reproduction, and grief—even if it’s uncomfortable

·   Practice cultural humility and intimacy: be willing to be wrong, to sit with pain, and to build trust

·   Acknowledge your own limitations and biases while staying curious and committed to learning

·   Be prepared for these conversations—even if you don’t specialize in reproductive mental health

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

What Therapists Need to Know to Support the Trans Community: An interview withArtie Hartsell

Curt and Katie chat with Artie Hartsell from ACLU North Carolina about how current anti-trans policies are impacting the trans community. We explore the historical erasure of trans identities, the rise of anti-trans legislation, and the real-world impact on housing, medical care, and documentation. Artie also shares resources for legal aid, community support, and how therapists can show up for their trans clients.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we explore the real-life consequences of anti-trans policies

Curt and Katie sit down with Artie Hartsell, MSW, an advocate and organizer with the ACLU of North Carolina, to discuss how recent political changes are affecting the trans community.

How are trans rights being threatened today?

What can therapists do to support trans clients?

Resources for Trans Individuals and Allies:

How can allies and therapists take action to support the trans community?

·   Educate yourself on trans rights and the implications of recent laws.

·   Provide direct support by connecting trans clients to legal and medical resources.

·   Engage in advocacy through organizations like the ACLU and local LGBTQ groups.

·   Encourage trans individuals to document and preserve their community’s history.

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

What Should Not Be Normalized in Our Profession?

Curt and Katie chat about a discussion that came up in the Modern Therapists Facebook group – What is something that you wish other therapists would stop pretending is normal. We explore the normalization of waiting until license renewal for CE, balancing accountability without chastising clients, and acknowledging countertransference in therapy. We also tackle the high costs of specialized training, the problems of treating children in isolation without family involvement, and the systemic issue of unpaid internships and low therapist wages.

 Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode we explore frustrations modern therapists have with our profession

Curt and Katie dive into some of the things that therapists normalize that maybe they shouldn’t, gathered from discussions in the Modern Therapist Facebook Group.

What are struggles that are normalized for therapists?

·      Waiting until right before license renewal to complete continuing education (CE)

·    Not figuring out the difference between holding clients accountable vs. chastising or bullying them

·     Failing to acknowledge countertransference and true emotions in therapy

·      The high costs of specialized training

·      Not recognizing the importance of family involvement in child therapy

·      The impact of unpaid internships and low wages for therapists

Is the therapy profession setting itself up for burnout and financialstruggle?

·      Many therapists procrastinate CE requirements, leading to unnecessary stress.

·      Holding clients accountable is important, but it shouldn't come at the cost of rapport or shame.

·      Denying countertransference is unrealistic — therapists have emotions too!

·      Expensive training creates barriers to specialization, limiting accessibility.

·      Therapists treating children without involving family may not be setting up the child for success.

·      Unpaid internships and low wages continue to undervalue therapists’ work, making financial stability difficult.

What can therapists do to improve their profession?

·      Plan CE credits early to avoid last-minute stress.

·      Frame accountability in a way that supports clients and aligns with their stated goals rather than chastises them.

·      Acknowledge emotions in therapy without making sessions about the therapist.

·      Seek out reasonably priced training options and advocate for more affordable education.

·      Encourage family involvement when working with children (when appropriate).

·      Push for industry-wide changes in pay and internship standards.

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

How Can Therapists Accept (and Impact) Technology?: An interview with Dr.David Cooper

Curt and Katie chat with Dr. David Cooper of Therapists in

Tech to explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapy.

Dr. Cooper highlights the importance of tech literacy, privacy, and security in

digital mental health while advocating for therapists to use AI as a tool for

efficiency rather than replacement. He compares this shift to the transition

from paper charts to electronic health records (EHRs) and encourages therapists

to stay informed and engaged through communities like Therapists in Tech and

the Society for Digital Mental Health.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we talk about how therapists can engage with technology

At the Behavioral Tech Conference, Katie met Dr. David

Cooper of therapists in tech. We invited him on to help us understand better how

therapists can engage with technology safely and ethically. As AI continues to

integrate into mental health care, therapists must embrace innovation while

advocating for ethical, client-centered practices.

How can therapists engage with AI and digital health responsibly?

Key Takeaways from this podcast interview with Dr. David Cooper ofTherapists in Tech

Resources for Therapists Adapting to Digital Health:

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, EroticTransference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists holdappropriate boundaries?

Curt and Katie chat about a disciplinary case against Dr. Eric Bergeman,

highlighting key ethical concerns for therapists. They explore documentation

practices, therapist responsibilities, and boundary management, particularly in

cases involving suicidality and erotic transference. The conversation

underscores the importance of clear treatment planning, proper record-keeping,

and ethical decision-making to avoid legal and professional consequences. This

is a continuing education podcourse.

Transcripts

for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode we talk about suicidality,erotic transference, between-session communication, and documentation

Therapists are given conflicting advice on when their duties

to patients begin, how much they are expected to be available to clients

outside of sessions, how they are to approach between-session communications,

and how to document such communications. This episode explores a disciplinary

case where the California Board of Psychology investigated a therapist’s

responses to a client that filed a complaint about the therapist’s treatment.

What therapists need to know about ethical boundaries and disciplinaryactions:

Key Takeaways from Dr. Bergeman’s Disciplinary Case:

Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’sSurvival Guide

Continuing Education Approvals:

Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies.

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

What Therapists Need to Know About Immigration: An interview with Andy Strait

Curt and Katie chat with Andy R. Strait, Esq., about immigration policies, mental health, and the role of therapists in supporting immigrant clients. They explore legal challenges, asylum cases, and the impact of fear-driven policies on mental health. Strait emphasizes the importance of legal representation, knowing one’s immigration status, and providing accurate resources. Therapists can help by offering pro bono evaluations, connecting clients with legal aid, and creating safe spaces for immigrant communities.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we talk about what therapists need to know about immigration

Immigration policies directly impact the mental health of both therapists and their clients. We asked Andy Strait, an immigration attorney and former public advocate, about the challenges immigrants face in the U.S. legal system, the role of therapists in supporting their clients, and practical steps therapists can take to provide assistance.

What do therapists need to know about immigration policies?

How Therapists Can Support Clients Facing Immigration Challenges

Understanding the Realities of the Immigration System

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Reacting to Regime Change: How Therapists Can Advocate for our Clients and Communities

Curt and Katie chat about how the United States has shifted since the inauguration of President Trump. We look at how therapists can advocate for their clients and the communities they serve and/or live in. We look at strategies for therapists to stay informed, provide vetted resources, and be present for clients who may be struggling with the changes.

 Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode we talk about the impact of political shifts on mental health care

With ongoing changes in healthcare policy, therapists must navigate how legislative decisions impact their clients and their own practice. In this episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy discuss the Trump administration’s influence on mental health care, the importance of accurate information and advocacy, and strategies for balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities.

What do therapists need to know about political changes in healthcare?

How Therapists Can Take Action to Protect Healthcare Access

The Emotional Toll of Advocacy and How to Manage It

The Role of Therapists in Community Support

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

When Your Client Dies By Suicide: An interview with Dr. Nina Gutin

Curt and Katie chat with Nina J. Gutin, Ph.D. about to discuss the emotional, professional, and systemic impact of client suicide on clinicians. We break down the common reactions of guilt and blame, highlight the importance of postvention support, and explore strategies to navigate grief and maintain clinical confidence.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we talk about the impact of client suicide on clinicians

Losing a client to suicide is a devastating and often isolating experience for mental health professionals. We asked suicide expert, Dr. Nina Gutin to join us to talk about how therapists can take care of themselves when they have a client die by suicide.

What do therapists need to know about client suicide and its impact on clinicians?

Processing Guilt and Self-Blame After a Client Suicide

The Professional and Emotional Toll of Client Suicide on Therapists

Resources and Support for Clinicians

Breaking the Stigma and Advocating for Systemic Support

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

 

Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns

Curt and Katie chat about the limitations of performative awareness campaigns and the need for action-oriented advocacy. Inspired by the article Stop Raising Awareness Already by Ann Christiano and Annie Niemand, they critique viral campaigns like Kony 2012 and the CDC’s zombie apocalypse campaign, highlighting the importance of targeting the right audiences, crafting compelling messages, and developing a theory of change.

 Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode we talk about the limitations of awareness campaigns

Curt and Katie talk about what to do instead of focusing precious time, energy, and resources on advocacy that is solely about awareness. We look at what has worked in the past and how to implement that now.

Why Awareness Alone Isn’t Enough

The Importance of Targeted Advocacy

Developing a Theory of Change

Practical Steps for Effective Advocacy:

·      Move beyond awareness—advocate for policy changes, funding, and direct action.

·      Target specific audiences (lawmakers, healthcare providers, educators).

·      Craft messages that resonate—ensure they lead to measurable change.

·      Develop a theory of change—plan advocacy efforts with long-term impact in mind.

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith

Curt and Katie chat with Roger Smith, Chief Advocacy Officer and General Counsel for American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, about the challenges and progress in licensure portability for Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs). He explains why AAMFT opted for an endorsement model over interstate compacts, the success of the Access MFTs initiative, and what’s next for portability efforts in 2025.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we talk with Roger Smith about LMFT License Portability

As more and more therapy is happening online, therapists have an opportunity to work with clients from all over the world. In the United States, there have been efforts by social workers, mental health counselors, and psychologists to create inter-state compacts to help regulate these therapists (and provide opportunities to deliver care legally in other states). Marriage and Family Therapists have been left behind and are now seeking a different path (reciprocity or portability) due to the unique characteristics of the LMFT profession. We reached out to Roger Smith of AAMFT to help us understand why this decision was made as well as what it means for MFTs.

Why AAMFT Chose the Endorsement Model Over Compacts

·      Interstate compacts were considered but ultimately deemed too costly and unsustainable.

·      Large states like California and New York have not adopted ANY healthcare compacts, limiting effectiveness.

·      Endorsement model: Allows MFTs to practice in other states if they hold an unencumbered license—without having to meet initial requirements again.

Success of the "Access MFTs" Model

·      In 2024, 7 out of 10 targeted states passed the Access MFTs model law.

·      States that adopted the model include Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Tennessee, and Virginia.

·      Efforts continue in Kentucky and North Carolina for 2025.

Future of MFT Portability & Barriers

Member Interest & Cost Considerations for MFTs seeking to practice across state lines

National Licensure for therapists: Why It’s Not an Option

Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/