Things You Learn in Therapy

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with special guest Desiree Argentina, a licensed independent clinical social worker, who shares her insightful journey of transitioning to Washington State and the hurdles of obtaining a new professional license. We take a deep dive into the shifting landscape of middle and high schools, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. With rising violence and behavioral issues among students, the stress on educators has reached unprecedented levels. Together, we unpack the critical need for appreciating and supporting teachers and why their well-being should be a priority for us all, including educators, parents, and mental health professionals.

Ever wondered if your coping mechanisms are genuinely helping you or if they're a crutch leading to burnout? We explore the fine line between healthy and unhealthy coping skills, using busyness as a prime example. Understanding what drives our need to be constantly busy—a productive tool or avoidance tactic—can be the key to better mental and emotional health. This discussion equips you with the knowledge to distinguish between adaptive coping strategies that build resilience and maladaptive ones that may only offer temporary relief.

Relationships are complex, and the misconception that avoiding conflict preserves them is something we tackle head-on. We believe in addressing issues rather than sweeping them under the rug, as avoidance often leaves unresolved tension. By introducing acceptance and commitment therapy, we highlight the significance of aligning our actions with personal values. Self-awareness and open communication, especially among adolescents, are crucial in recognizing unhealthy dynamics and fostering healthier relationships. Listen in to gain valuable insights into creating a more balanced and fulfilling life.

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, please contact 988 or seek a treatment provider in your area.

If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6

Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]

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Discover the complexities of religious trauma with Dr. Essence Rivers, a licensed clinical psychologist known for her work with marginalized and intersectional groups. Dr. Rivers brings her wealth of knowledge to our discussion, shedding light on how religious trauma can reshape an individual's worldview and sense of self. We promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of how to identify and support those who may be suffering from these often-overlooked experiences, enhancing both personal and communal well-being.

We navigate through the labyrinth of spiritual abuse, uncovering the fine line between individual actions and the systems they operate within. Dr. Rivers helps us identify the red flags of manipulative religious practices and their potential impact on relationships and parenting. Reflecting on the teachings of Jesus, our conversation reveals how religion should inspire connection and compassion, not isolation or shame. This episode carefully distinguishes between spiritual abuse and religious trauma, offering insights into how they may differ yet interconnect over time.

As the conversation unfolds, we explore the often unspoken misalignment between professed values and actual practices within faith communities. Dr. Rivers shares personal stories of navigating these complex environments, illustrating the struggle for inclusivity and authenticity in religious spaces. We conclude with practical advice on finding safe and welcoming faith communities, emphasizing the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and personal well-being. Whether you're seeking understanding or solutions, this episode is a thoughtful guide through the challenges of religious trauma and spiritual growth.

Here are some of the resources Dr. Rivers shared after the episode.

https://www.livingout.org/storage/files/shares/Audit_Online.pdf
https://www.churchclarity.org/
https://www.thereap.org/
https://www.christiansagainstchristiannationalism.org/church-community-resources
https://www.notinourchurch.com/
https://www.snapnetwork.org/
https://projects.propublica.org/credibly-accused/
https://floodlit.org/
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/investigations/abuse-of-faith/database/
https://baptistaccountability.org/
https://watchkeep.org/
Dr. Rivers' favorites:
Dan Minor and Harvest Sarasota
Carlos Rodriguez and The Happy Givers
David Hayward and Naked Pastor
Unconventional Pastor Paul
Tim Whittaker and the New Evangelicals

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast

Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]

If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

Unlock the secrets of effective clinical supervision with insights from Dr. Beth Trammell and her esteemed guest, Michele Mani, a seasoned clinical supervisor and psychotherapist. Michele shares her journey from clinical practice to private practice, and how it has elevated her role in supervision. Together, we explore the art of balancing professional duties with personal wellness, as exemplified through our mutual love for sports—Michele with pickleball and me with tennis. This episode promises to offer listeners valuable lessons on maintaining harmony between work and self-care.

We dive into the essential qualities that define a great supervisor, underscoring the importance of presence, punctuality, and attentiveness. Drawing from personal anecdotes and feedback, we address the realities and challenges of managing both administrative and clinical responsibilities. We discuss how cultivating a culture of feedback and engagement fosters an environment ripe for growth and respect. Through our conversation, we aim to inspire supervisors to become the mentors they aspire to be, creating supportive spaces that encourage development and reflection.

Through practical strategies, we offer guidance on nurturing independence while providing necessary support to supervisees. We focus on establishing clear communication expectations, emphasizing the value of supervision journals and personalized attention. Navigating the complexities of supervising early-career therapists, we highlight the importance of a supportive team environment and regular consultation with peers. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for supervisors seeking to enrich their practice, helping them understand the best practices to overcome challenges and build a nurturing supervisory relationship.

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast

Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]

If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6

Support the show

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Send us Fan Mail

Listen in as we debrief the episode from Kaya Spicer!

We're also excited to welcome back Kaya, who brings a refreshing approach to discussing sexual health. With her candidness, Kaya transforms what is often a hushed topic into an easy, dinner-table conversation. For many of us who grew up in environments where such discussions were sparse, Kaya's openness is both enlightening and comforting. This episode promises a thoughtful exploration of how openly discussing sexual health can foster understanding and ease, paving the way for a more informed approach to the topic.

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What happens when therapists seek therapy themselves? That's the pressing question we tackled with Dr. Beth Trammell and our special guest, Marie Sloane, a licensed professional counselor. Despite being equipped with theoretical knowledge, therapists like Marie often face the stigma and imposter syndrome when they turn the lens inward. We delved into this fascinating topic, underscoring the importance of vulnerability and normalizing mental health support for those who provide it to others.

Creating a sanctuary of comfort in therapy sessions is a cornerstone of effective practice. We share insights on how adopting a non-judgmental attitude and establishing clear boundaries fosters an environment where clients feel safe and open. From telehealth to embracing casual language, our conversation reveals how these elements contribute to an authentic therapeutic relationship. By being transparent about our habits and accommodating our clients' needs, as Marie shared, therapists can reinforce a trusting and supportive atmosphere.

Balancing personal well-being with the demands of therapy work is a tightrope walk many therapists know well. Our discussion ventures into the complexities of setting boundaries and finding self-care routines that genuinely work, recognizing that rest is deeply personal. Whether you're a parent navigating postpartum challenges or simply trying to recharge, understanding what truly rejuvenates you is crucial. We conclude with a celebration of the creative process, expressing gratitude for our engaging discussion and the anticipations of future explorations. Join us on this journey, and let's continue to stay safe and well together.

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, please contact 988 or seek a treatment provider in your area.

To learn more about Marie or contact her, visit: http://mariesloanecounseling.com/

If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6

Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

This is a throwback episode that I will probably always post around this time because I always need this reminder!! Hope you enjoy this conversation around New Year's resolutions!

Want to transform the way you view New Year's resolutions? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Michael Alcée, who returns to share his captivating insights into the tradition of setting annual goals. Dr. Alcée helps us navigate the emotional rollercoaster of resolutions, from the excitement of self-improvement to the weight of societal expectations. Get ready to rethink your approach with fresh perspectives on blending self-acceptance and growth. We'll explore how the rigidity of conventional resolutions might stifle creativity and discover ways to harmonize the enthusiasts and skeptics among us. 

Amidst discussions on SMART goals and the cultural phenomenon of "Quitter's Day," Dr. Alcée invites us to embrace a mindset filled with playfulness and curiosity. Imagine resolutions as an ever-evolving journey rather than a strict deadline. Together, we reevaluate the traditional calendar-bound mindset, celebrating the essence of continuous personal development. By the end, you'll learn how high achievers find fulfillment in the process itself, leading to sustained innovation and success. Prepare to leave this episode with renewed motivation and a fresh perspective on how to craft resolutions that truly resonate with your unique rhythm and needs.

Michael Alcée, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Tarrytown, NY and Mental Health Educator at Manhattan School of Music. He specializes in the psychology of artists and everyday creativity and the professional development of therapists. His contributions have appeared in The Chicago Tribune, The New York Times, The New York Post, NPR, Salon.com, and on the TEDx stage. His book from Norton entitled Therapeutic Improvisation: How to Stop Winging It and Own It as a Therapist is available wherever books are sold. 

 Book Link

Therapeutic Improvisation 

Website

https://michaelalcee.com/

 

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast
 
 Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]

If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6 

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

It's Christmas EVE!!!! WHATTTT?!?!?   I am so proud of you. Of us. For making it 25 days to a better Christmas morning. Today is about rest. Presence. Enjoyment. Love. 
Stay safe, stay well, friends. Merry, merry Christmas and I will be back here after the new year!

#25days25waystoabetterchristmas 
#kidsthesedayspodcast
#makewordsmatter
#parenting

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We do this for a lot of random occasions. All of the kids and all of the grown-ups always laugh, laugh, laugh. It's just so fun and there are no materials needed! 

#25days25waystoabetterchristmas 
#kidsthesedayspodcast
#makewordsmatter
#parenting

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If you have listened to NO OTHER day but this one, THIS IS THE ONE TO HEAR!  It's also the one to SHARE with others! Of all of the tips, this is the ONE that I believe is the most important to intentionally implement so you have a better Christmas morning. Consider your expectations. And be really clear. And trust me, your kids will thank you! :)

#25days25waystoabetterchristmas 
#kidsthesedayspodcast
#makewordsmatter
#parenting

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I am really excited to see what folks do with this one!  I already have my idea planned out. I would love to see what y'all come up with!! Post a picture and let us see your fancy! 
#25days25waystoabetterchristmas 
#kidsthesedayspodcast
#makewordsmatter
#parenting

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com