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This week on Therapy Talks the conversation navigates through the complexities of defining happiness, distinguishing it from mere pleasure, and underlining the role of meaning and satisfaction. Dr. Ashley Smith joins us to discus the pitfalls of the hedonic treadmill and the significance of combining pleasure with other factors for sustained well-being.

As a specialist in anxiety disorders, Dr. Smith sheds light on the link between anxiety/depression and a lack of positive emotions. She introduces practical tools like exposure therapy and finding meaning to address anxiety, offering valuable insights for those seeking relief.

In This Episode:

• PERMA Model for Well-being: Dr. Martin Seligman's PERMA model, offering a comprehensive framework for well-being. Listeners will learn about the five key elements—Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Purpose, and Achievement—that contribute to a fulfilling life, providing a practical guide for personal growth.
  
  
• Insights into Positive Psychology and Anxiety Disorders: Gain a deep understanding of positive psychology as a proactive approach to mental health, particularly in the context of anxiety disorders.
  
  
• Motivation Grounded in Personal Values: Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of this values-based motivation and introduces a practical writing exercise, the values write, shown to have a lasting impact on behavior change.
  
  
• Resilience and Growth Mindset: Practical tips on how to navigate challenges, bounce back from failures, and embrace a mindset that believes in personal development and the capacity to learn and grow from experiences.

Dr. Ashley Smith brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, offering listeners a roadmap to positive psychology, resilience, and well-being. Don't miss this opportunity to reshape your thinking and embrace a life filled with purpose and happiness.

Find Out More About Dr. Ashley Smith
Website:  https://www.drashleysmith.com/

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

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Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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This week on Therapy Talks we step into the realm of therapeutic exploration as our guest, Dr. Bethany Detwiler, guides us through the intricacies of Internal Family Systems (IFS)—a model that views symptoms as parts of oneself rather than stigmatized issues. We discuss the role of the "self" as an innate, essential aspect that may become obscured by protective parts. Our guest advocates for befriending and understanding these protective parts to access and heal exiled, wounded aspects, providing listeners with practical tools for their own therapeutic journeys.

In this Episode:

• Learn the significance in understanding and healing protective and wounded aspects within individuals.
• Explore the importance of tailoring sessions through the lens of IFS, where clients actively engage in co-creating their therapeutic journey.
• Gain valuable insights into practical IFS techniques, such as befriending protective parts and understanding inner child work.
• Practical tips for both therapists and clients engaging in IFS, including creative visualization techniques. 
• Shed light on the growing trend of inner child work, fueled by social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Dr. Bethany Detwiler, a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, holds an M.Ed. and PhD in Counseling Psychology from Lehigh University. Completing their doctoral internship at the University of Pennsylvania counseling center, Dr. Detwiler is a credentialed PSYPACT provider, extending telehealth services to clients across the majority of US states. They also contribute as an adjunct professor in counseling for Lehigh University graduate students.

Find Out More About Dr. Bethany Detwiler:
Website: https://www.bdetwilerphd.com/

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

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Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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Welcome to this week's episode of Therapy Talks, where we delve deep into the realms of self-discovery, mental health, and personal growth with the insightful therapist, Roger Jayamanne. 

A significant focus of Roger's work revolves around supporting individuals in navigating existential angst, anxiety, and depression. He sheds light on the profound impact of psychedelic experiences, guiding clients through the process of reintegration and understanding habitual responses. Roger's therapeutic approach primarily centers on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), emphasizing core values, mindfulness, and acceptance of life's challenges.

Roger shares practical techniques, including microcosmic meditation practices and diffusion techniques, empowering listeners to find inner peace amidst life's chaos. He advocates for self-compassion, encouraging individuals to embrace imperfections and setbacks as part of their self-development journey.

Join us as we explore the paradox of embracing emotions, the power of self-compassion, and the transformative potential within every individual.

 At the heart of Roger's work lies a person-centered ethos. His priority is to build a trusting, open, and honest relationship that enables individuals to experience understanding and feel truly heard, perhaps for the first time in their lives.  Roger strives to support others in finding their way into health, ongoing growth, and feeling alive again.

In This Episode:

• Embracing Inner Awareness: The importance of being aware of one's emotions without judgment. This self-awareness acts as a guiding force, illuminating the path to self-discovery and personal growth.
• Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Harnessing anxiety and depression as opportunities to explore one's inner self and create positive change.
• Practical Mindfulness Techniques: Roger shares practical techniques such as microcosmic meditation and diffusion methods. These tools empower listeners to find inner peace, navigate emotional responses, and interrupt habitual anxiety patterns through mindfulness and meditation practices.
• Fostering Self-Compassion: Listeners are encouraged to embrace imperfections and setbacks as natural parts of the journey to self-development. Roger advocates for self-compassion, urging individuals to be awake and aware of their behaviors without self-criticism, fostering a positive and nurturing inner dialogue.

Find Out More About Roger:
Website: https://jayacounselling.co.uk/about

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

✨ BONUS FREE GIFT ✨
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Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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This week on Therapy Talks we are joined by Dr. Amy Marschall. We delve into the complexities of obtaining official diagnoses for neurodiversity, such as ADHD and autism, along with the value of such diagnoses. The episode highlights issues like under-diagnosis in adults, workplace discrimination, and the practicality of accessing support and resources even without formal diagnoses. We also explore the concept of "masking" within the neurodivergent community and its implications, particularly for autistic individuals.

In This Episode:

• Discuss the importance of moving towards an affirming and supportive approach for neurodivergent individuals.
• Explore the value of seeking an official diagnosis for neurodiversity.
• Learn about "Masking" - The practice of concealing neurodivergence, particularly in autistic individuals, which can lead to stress and burnout.
• Understanding stigma and discrimination in the workplace can be barriers to obtaining an official diagnosis.
• Self-care involves recognizing and honoring individual needs, even if they differ from societal expectations.
  
  

Dr. Amy Marschall earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the University of Hartford in West Hartford, Connecticut. She has been a licensed psychologist since 2016 and currently owns a private practice, RMH-Therapy, where she provides therapy primarily to children and adolescents and psychological evaluations. Her clinical specializations include trauma-informed care, neurodiversity-affirming care, rural mental health, and telemental health. Additionally Dr. Marschall is the Clinical Director of A Change for Better, an organization promoting affordable and accessible mental health care and resources. She is also the chair of the Clinical Committee at the ACFB Fund, a charitable organization that funds mental health services. Dr. Marschall is the author of several books, including clinical texts, children’s books, and a guided journal.

Find Out More About Dr. Amy Marschall:
Website: https://resiliencymentalhealth.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAmyMarschall

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

✨ BONUS FREE GIFT ✨
Free lifetime access to the 91-Day Self-Love Guided Journaling Program & Digital Self-Love Journal. With over 20 hours of therapist-guided journaling!  Click here to claim! 

Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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This week on Therapy Talks,  Dr. Angela Snyder unravels the complexities of relationships, illuminating the path to deeper connections, understanding, and love. Through her wisdom, empathy, and transformative techniques, listeners are invited to witness the beauty of healing and growth within the realm of relationships. Tune in and embark on a transformative journey toward greater fulfillment, authenticity, and connectedness.

The podcast illuminates the diverse spectrum of couples seeking therapy, from those on the cusp of marriage to couples who have traversed the annals of time together. Through Angela’s expertise, listeners gain insights into the repetitive cycles of conflict and communication challenges that often plague relationships. Angela’s systemic approach peels back the layers, revealing the intricate dynamics within couples, focusing on understanding triggers and reactivity through the lens of the Vulnerability Cycle.

In This Episode:

• Embrace Empathy: Witness a therapeutic approach rooted in empathy, where partners' perspectives are respected and childhood experiences are explored for healing.
• Navigate Emotional Expression: Understand the importance of expressing protests, unmet needs, and longings within a safe therapeutic space for profound healing and growth.
• Foster Healing Discussions: Experience a holistic approach that integrates psychodynamic training, mindfulness practices, and sensory motor psychotherapy techniques, creating a space for exploration and healing in relationships.
• Discover Sensory Motor Psychotherapy: Explore the concept of the "Window of Tolerance" and techniques for managing stressors and emotional responses in the body.

Angela’s expertise shines through in her role as a facilitator, encouraging couples to express themselves while delicately balancing transference and countertransference dynamics. Angela's approach to therapy is a beacon of healing, guiding individuals and couples toward a profound understanding of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Angela earned a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at The George Washington University and has been a clinician at her private practice since 2006.

Find Out More About Dr. Angela Snyder:
Website: https://www.drangelasnyder.com/

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

✨ BONUS FREE GIFT ✨
Free lifetime access to the 91-Day Self-Love Guided Journaling Program & Digital Self-Love Journal. With over 20 hours of therapist-guided journaling!  Click here to claim! 

Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

Trigger Warning: Discussions around suicide and self-harm.
This episode contains sensitive subject matter that may be triggering to some listeners.

If you or anyone you know needs help, please call 988.
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This week on Therapy Talks we discuss suicide prevention, mental health and the need for systemic change with our guest Holly Zell. Holly shares her wisdom on the importance of acknowledging and supporting the complex and often misunderstood feelings around suicide. This episode takes a profound look at the pressing issue of reaching out for help and recognizing the obstacles of stigma and panic that can hinder one's willingness to share their thoughts. She also shares her personal story that ignited her path towards psychology.

In this Episode:

• Learn about creating personalized safety plans that consider individual needs and preferences.
• Explore the significance of helping individuals find reasons to continue living to provide time for support and intervention.
• Suicide prevention goes beyond therapy and includes addressing systemic issues like systemic oppression and building strong community support systems.
• Promoting open conversations about suicidal thoughts without judgment or immediate overreactions is vital in reducing stigma and facilitating support.
• How to respond if a friend or loved one shares suicidal thoughts. 

Holly Zell holds a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling and has been practicing since 2017. Holly practices from a person-centered lens, emphasizing the client as the expert in their life and needs. Their goal is to create a comfortable space for clients to explore, reflect, and make decisions based on their own values. Holly is well-versed in various trauma treatments, suicide prevention, and eating disorders. Holly Zell approaches their practice from a justice and systems-centered perspective, challenging societal narratives. Concurrently, Holly is a PhD student at Oregon State University, researching community-based suicide prevention in queer and trans communities.


Find Out More About Holly Zell:
Website: https://www.garnetcounseling.com/

 
Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

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Are you an overachiever, entrepreneur, or high-achieving professional? Do you often find yourself struggling with perfectionism, people-pleasing, or imposter syndrome? If so, get ready to dive deep into the world of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with our guest this week, the remarkable therapist, Dr. Samantha Rae.

In this enlightening episode, we explore how Dr. Rae's personal experiences led her to focus on helping those dealing with perfectionism and people-pleasing. Her extensive training in ACT, tailored specifically for these concerns, empowers her clients to embrace acceptance, live by their values, and build not just resilience but true well-being.

In This Episode:

• Unravel the power of ACT in building resilience, acceptance, and a life driven by your core values, unburdened by society's expectations.
• Explore the art of facing challenging emotions head-on, with Dr. Rae's expert guidance, using the "dropping anchor" technique.
• Shed light on the role of cognitive distortions and rigid thought patterns in perfectionism and people-pleasing.
• Understand why validation and normalization are pivotal in assisting individuals struggling with people-pleasing behaviors.
• Discover that therapy isn't about eliminating all suffering but rather about improving symptoms and gaining invaluable self-insights.

Dr. Samantha Rae is a licensed psychologist in Florida who specializes in working with professionals, entrepreneurs and other high-achieving individuals dealing with perfectionism. Dr. Rae is an esteemed member of the American Psychological Association (APA) and has undergone advanced training in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy specifically tailored for perfectionism and people-pleasing concerns. Her impressive academic background includes a Psy.D. and M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania as well as a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh.

Find Out More About Dr. Samantha Rae:
Website: https://www.drsamantharae.com
Instagram: @drsamantharae

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

✨ BONUS FREE GIFT ✨
Free lifetime access to the 91-Day Self-Love Guided Journaling Program & Digital Self-Love Journal. With over 20 hours of therapist-guided journaling!  Click here to claim! 

Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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In this episode, Michelle candidly discusses the alarming rise in anxiety and depression among teenagers, which she attributes to a myriad of factors. From the impact of social media's incessant comparison culture to the aftermath of traumatic events, Michelle's insights paint a vivid picture of the challenges our younger generation faces.

As Michelle delves into her therapy toolbox, she unveils the power of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Her approach, tailored for teens and adults alike, involves reshaping thought patterns and equipping individuals with effective coping mechanisms. Through controlled breathing, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, she empowers her clients to combat the clutches of social anxiety.

In this Episode:

• Learn about the factors contributing to the alarming increase in anxiety and depression among teenagers, including the influence of social media and the aftermath of traumatic events.
• Overcome the stigma surrounding seeking mental health support.
• Delve into the distinction between shyness and social anxiety. 
• Recognize how social anxiety, marked by avoidance behaviors, can be more debilitating and the role of external factors, genetics, and learned behaviors in its development.
• Discover the transformative potential of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. 

Michelle McLendon boasts more than two decades of versatile experience across diverse professional environments. Her expertise is assisting individuals grappling with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and other forms of distress. Michelle also extends her guidance to those facing challenges in adapting to life's transitions. Michelle is dedicated to collaborating with clients, facilitating their journey towards personal growth and self-improvement.

Find Out More About Michelle McLendon:
Website: https://www.startingpointcounseling.net

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

✨ BONUS FREE GIFT ✨
Free lifetime access to the 91-Day Self-Love Guided Journaling Program & Digital Self-Love Journal. With over 20 hours of therapist-guided journaling!  Click here to claim! 

Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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In this captivating conversation, Dr. Holly imparts her insights on guiding individuals through the complexities of workplace challenges and coping mechanisms. As the founder of Life First Therapy, a private practice dedicated to fostering personal growth, Dr. Holly specializes in addressing behaviors associated with process addictions and behavioral disorders. These process addictions entail intricate issues like gambling, excessive internet use, sexual behaviors, pornography consumption, shopping, and compulsive exercising—subjects that are often overlooked but hold significant importance.

Discover Dr. Holly's powerful therapeutic techniques, including motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and narrative therapy. Uncover how DBT aids in emotional regulation, replacing harmful behaviors with healthier alternatives. Dive into the world of social media and online shopping—facets of modern life that often amplify triggers for process addictions.

In This Episode:

• Learn about process addictions, such as gambling, internet use, and shopping, and how they can be as challenging to identify as substance addictions.
• Uncover effective therapeutic techniques like motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and narrative therapy.
• Gain valuable insights into how individuals resist confronting uncomfortable emotions and engage in addictive behaviors to avoid discomfort.
• Delve into the impact of social media and online shopping on process addictions. 
• Discover the power of mindfulness activities, journaling, and self-care as initial steps for those not ready for therapy.

Dr. Holly is a dedicated Black female therapist, adept at aiding professional Black women in maneuvering workplace microaggressions while avoiding detrimental coping mechanisms such as behavioral addictions and substances. She holds the titles of Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both PA and NJ, National Certified Counselor (NCC), Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC). Moreover, she holds the designation of Department of Transportation (DOT) Qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), and boasts a role as an internationally recognized mental health speaker and author. Having excelled across diverse settings including residential, outpatient, and methadone facilities, she has served as a Clinical Director and therapist.

Find Out More About Dr. Holly:
Website: https://www.lifefirsttherapy.com

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Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

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Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.

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In this week's episode, Dr. Alonso steers our conversation towards the captivating realm of parenting, kids, teens, and the challenges they encounter in our modern, anxiety-laden world. A specialist in mood disorders and family relationships, with a background in forensic psychology, Dr. Alonso has a unique perspective that's bound to captivate listeners of all backgrounds.

Tune in to discover the delicate balance between permissiveness and boundaries in parenting, and learn how to adapt your approach based on your child's temperament. And speaking of adaptation, Dr. Alonso's emphasis on attachment theory and the importance of secure emotional connections within families will leave you inspired and motivated to foster deeper connections with your loved ones.

In This Episode:

• Discover the significance of attachment theory in fostering healthy family relationships.
• Gain insights into the rising levels of anxiety and depression among children, teens, and families.
• Learn the art of balancing boundaries and permissiveness in parenting, adapting your approach based on your child's unique temperament.
• Delve into the vital aspects of effective parent-child relationships.
• Take away the encouragement to embrace your imperfections as a parent and mend any ruptures in your relationships. 

Dr. Thai Alonso holds a B.A. in Biology and Psychology from Rutgers University and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate Center. Her expertise encompasses bilingual (English and Spanish) psychological assessments and therapeutic interventions for individuals across the age spectrum, spanning outpatient clinics, inpatient units, partial hospitalization programs, psychiatric emergency rooms, and private practice.

Find Out More About Dr. Thai Alonso:
Website: https://thaialonsophd.com/

Learn More About Switch Research:
Website: https://switchresearch.org/
Instagram: @switchresearch

✨ BONUS FREE GIFT ✨
Free lifetime access to the 91-Day Self-Love Guided Journaling Program & Digital Self-Love Journal. With over 20 hours of therapist-guided journaling!  Click here to claim! 

Disclaimer: Therapy Talks does NOT provide medical services or professional counseling, and it is NOT a substitute for professional medical care.