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When Michelle Benyo faced the unimaginable loss of her son to cancer, she found a way to channel her pain into purpose, guiding other bereaved parents through the fog of grief. Her story, a testament to the power of transformation, is one we unravel in today's episode, where she shares her insights on Good Grief Parenting. With candor and compassion, we traverse the complex emotions that come with loss, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging and facing grief to cultivate resilience and hope.

Our dialogue also brings to light the challenge of raising children in the aftermath of a sibling's passing. We uncover the often overlooked signs of grief in children, who express their sorrow in ways vastly different from adults. By fostering open communication and patience, Michelle underscores the importance of being present for our children's evolving understanding of loss. This episode aims not only to comfort but also to empower parents with strategies and resources, including the Good Grief Guide, to walk this difficult path with fortitude and love.

As we wrap up, our conversation takes a momentary detour to appreciate the unlikely joy found in the harshness of Minnesota winters. It's a lighthearted reflection on embracing life's every season, akin to the way we approach grieving—with the right attitude and tools, even the coldest days can hold moments of warmth and growth. Michelle's journey resonates with a universal truth: grief, when navigated together, can become a journey of shared healing and unexpected strength.

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 

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Have you ever wondered how the simple act of being there for someone could be a beacon of support through their suffering? Join us as Dr. Nick Lee and I unravel this profound question, sharing personal and professional reflections on the transformative power of presence in therapy and relationships. Dr. Lee, with his expertise in counseling psychology and integrated care from Open Door Health Services, brings a wealth of knowledge that enriches our heartfelt discussion.

At the core of our exchange is the recognition of the emotional weight borne by mental health professionals. We candidly discuss the critical need for self-care rituals and the ethical quandaries we navigate when setting boundaries, despite an overwhelming demand for our services. I open up about my own experiences, including coping with the loss of my father, while emphasizing that therapists are not impervious to personal struggles. Our conversation is an open invitation to understand the often overlooked human aspect of providing care and the shared journey of embracing vulnerability.

The episode culminates with an eye-opening discussion on the nature of suffering and how we can foster a healthier relationship with it. Our stories underscore the insight that suffering goes beyond the pain felt—it includes our resistance to it. We offer listeners strategies for building attunement in their relationships and encourage embracing moments of presence, whether in joy or hardship. This is more than just a dialogue; it's an exploration of the courage needed to share and grow through our struggles, 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
 
 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 

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Are you ready to transform your approach to New Year's resolutions and embrace a balanced path to self-improvement? In this replay, Dr. Michael Alcee joins us once again, bringing his profound insights into why resolutions simultaneously inspire and daunt us. Together, we unpack the annual ritual of setting goals, dissecting the psyche behind the burst of ambition that greets January 1st, while examining the skepticism that sees these resolutions often abandoned shortly after. Dr. Alcee even pulls back the curtain on his own life, sharing his experience of channeling creativity through a unique outlet—a therapists' garage band—providing a vibrant backdrop to our exploration of intentions and growth.

Finding harmony between self-acceptance and the pursuit of progress can feel like walking a tightrope, but this episode aims to offer you the balance needed to tread confidently. We delve into the concept of living in the paradox, where the key is appreciating the present while fostering the seeds of development. Drawing inspiration from the arts, we discuss the importance of recognizing our dual nature—static yet dynamic—and how figures like Emily Dickinson and Henry David Thoreau embraced spirituality in everyday life. This conversation invites you to consider a more compassionate approach to personal development, one that values who you are today without the unyielding chase for 'more'.

The artistry of goal setting takes center stage as we dissect the SMART criteria and its role in forging effective, intrinsic motivation. Flexibility within a structured plan is emphasized, as it helps avoid the common pitfalls that derail resolutions. By sharing personal anecdotes, Dr. Alcee illustrates how constraints can often lead to the most creative breakthroughs, encouraging listeners to value the journey as much as the destination. We bring to light the importance of balancing the quantitative markers of success with qualitative experiences, ensuring that your path to personal growth is not only effective but also enjoyable and truly fulfilling.

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:

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Welcome to a deeply personal and transformative episode of our podcast where we unpack the complexities of pregnancy loss, infertility, and maternal mental health, through the inspiring lens of our special guest, Dr. Corie Hess. Drawing from her personal journey of pregnancy loss and near-death childbirth experience, Dr. Hess unravels the unique pain of grieving a future that was dreamt but not realized, challenging societal expectations of motherhood, and the persistent stigma attached to seeking mental health treatment. 

In our candid conversation with Dr. Hess, she guides us on how best to show up for our loved ones navigating grief - offering their stories space to breathe instead of burying them under well-meaning but often hurtful phrases. We navigate the tumultuous terrain of infertility, discussing the emotional, relational, and financial strains it imposes, and how it feels to watch friends and family have children while struggling to conceive. We want you to know that your pain is seen, your struggles are valid, and there is a community here that understands.

As we delve deeper into the daunting realities of pregnancy and postpartum experiences, Dr. Hess enlightens us on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, loss, and the importance of mental health support. We talk about valuable resources from organizations like Postpartum Support International and the Muncie Maternal Mental Health Coalition. Through sharing her own harrowing story of nearly dying during childbirth, Dr. Hess sheds light on an often overlooked concern - maternal mortality. This episode is about breaking silences, challenging norms, and creating a safe space for honest conversations about the realities of motherhood. And most importantly, it's about supporting each other through it all.

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Have you ever found yourself caught in the relentless pursuit of perfection, or bending over backwards to please others at the cost of your own happiness? If yes, this conversation with renowned therapist Laura Sgro, a specialist in anxiety, trauma, and self-worth, will resonate deeply with you. We take an unflinching look at the roots of perfectionism, from childhood expectations to ingrained trauma, underscoring the importance of setting achievable goals and celebrating small victories.

We also delve into the psychology of everyday tasks, examining how these seemingly mundane activities often shape our self-worth. Through a relatable narrative of a mother torn between household chores and self-care, we share insights on reframing negative self-talk and redefining 'good enough'. Moreover, we address the complexities of perfectionism and people-pleasing, recognizing how these traits are often underpinned by fear, resulting in a loss of our authentic selves.

The final part of our discussion highlights the necessity of establishing boundaries and making intentional choices in order to live an authentic and fulfilling life. We explore how to overcome perfectionism and people-pleasing by placing emphasis on our own needs and identity. So, join us on this transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and learn how to break free from the chains of perfectionism and embrace the power of self-compassion.

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CROSSOVER EPISODE!! Ready to ignite the spirit of generosity in your children? Dr. Beth Trammell and Leslie Bolser, your hosts from Core Essential Values, are here to guide us along this journey. We share handy tips to nurture and model this value in the youngest members of our families. We highlight how even the smallest gestures, like sharing Skittles, can significantly impact someone's day. As the festive season approaches, we stress the importance of intentionally involving children in acts of giving.

Our discussion evolves, encompassing the challenges of teaching older children about generosity and the significance of giving beyond materialistic expectations. We explore the idea that generosity can't be forced, especially in teenagers, but needs to be instilled and nurtured instead. We dive into the importance of teaching them to give without expecting anything in return and encouraging the transition from material giving to the kind that brings meaning to their lives. We conclude with a powerful conversation about giving to save or rescue, emphasizing the need for more profound conversations with our children. Strap in for an engaging exploration of generosity and its implications.

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CROSSOVER EPISODE! Are you ready to embark on a journey that redefines gratitude and its importance in our lives? Gratitude isn't merely a verbal expression but an action that can significantly impact our relationships - especially our interactions with our children. Together, we dissect the power of gratitude and share essential tips that can help us as parents inculcate this virtue in our children’s lives, fostering a deeper connection with them.

Stepping into the world of teenagers, we further our understanding of how this age group perceives gratitude. Ever wondered how you could break the ice and have a more open conversation with your teenager about gratitude? Listen in, as we walk you through this, suggesting ways to reframe situations and communicate effectively. We stress on expressing our thankfulness to others for their help and influence, highlighting the importance of this acknowledgment. This isn't just a podcast episode, it's a journey aimed at fostering deeper connections, meaningful conversations, and an overall sense of gratitude in our lives. So, tune in!

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Ever feel like playtime with your child is a struggle rather than a joy? Do you grapple with taking a backseat and letting your child lead? This episode might just change your perspective on play. We sit down with child play expert, Colleen Martinez, and take a deep look into the world of child directed play. We share our own initial resistance to this method and how it significantly improved our interactions with children over time. Together, we unpack the powerful principles of child-centered play therapy and its overlap with parent-child interaction therapy.

As we journey through the podcast, we delve into the common hiccups that you might face when allowing a child to command the play. We identify four key areas that might block a successful child-led play experience: asking too many questions, feeling the need to entertain, competing, and exerting control. Instead of these, we propose embracing observation, praising simple comments like "I see what you're doing". We also present an easy-to-follow model for setting empathetic and accepting boundaries. We encourage you to experiment with just 15 minutes of child-led play a week - you might be surprised at the positive changes it brings!

We wrap up the episode by focusing on the pivotal ACT model for limit-setting and its application in parenting. It's not just about enforcing rules, but providing healthier alternatives for children. We stress the importance of understanding and respecting a child's needs and desires while still setting appropriate boundaries. Lastly, we delve into the benefits of child-directed play for children - it's a safe and nurturing platform for self-expression and emotional processing. So, prepare to tune in, learn and evolve your playtime experiences with your little ones. It might just transform your relationship with your child in a beautiful and meaningful way. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

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Are you a teacher grappling with how to manage challenging behaviors in the classroom, while ensuring recess isn't compromised? Then this conversation is for you. Today, we're joined by the incredible Colleen Martinez, a licensed clinical social worker and an assistant professor at Ramapo College of New Jersey, who is here to empower you with alternative strategies to maintain a positive learning environment without the need to take away recess.

We dive deep into a plethora of topics with Colleen, starting from mastering the art of teaching transitions and creating a strong foundation of positive relationships with your students. We also emphasize the power of effective communication strategies that can bridge the gap between student behavior and classroom expectation. Through real-life scenarios, we explore how to modify behavior in school settings, challenging the notion that misbehaving should be rewarded with attention or coveted items.

In the final segment, we stress the importance of supporting children's behavioral development while fostering a healthy bond of trust and connection. We elaborate on the concept of non-contingent reinforcement, like spending time with a trusted adult, which can make a significant difference in helping children navigate their emotions and behaviors. Tune in and find out how you can strike a balance between catering to an individual child's needs and maintaining fairness in the classroom. This conversation promises to be a game-changer for educators, parents, and anyone interested in children's behavioral development. Don't miss out!

If you, or someone you know, is having mental health challenges and is in need of assistance, please contact 988.


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 a text

Ever wondered how playing with toys can be therapeutic? Prepare to be amazed by my insightful chat with Dr. Colleen Martinez, a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor. We delve into the heart of play therapy, illuminating the differences in approach between generalists and registered play therapists, while celebrating the significant role of the Association for Play Therapy in advocating for effective methodologies and high standards.

Our journey takes us through a vibrant spectrum of play therapy types, from child-directed to therapist-directed techniques, demystifying how the simple act of play can facilitate communication and healing. Dr. Martinez generously shares a personal account of using child-centered play therapy to support preschoolers with speech delays—a testament to the transformative power of play. We underscore the necessity of a safe space and an assortment of toys and materials, reinforcing the notion that play is indeed the language of children.

In the latter part of our conversation, we explore the nuances of establishing trust swiftly when working with children and their families. Dr. Martinez emphasizes the importance of demonstrating knowledge about various techniques and related research to lend credibility to the therapist’s role. We discuss treatment plans as a tool for setting realistic expectations and providing swift and sensitive solutions that uphold the comfort and confidence of the child and family. Lastly, Dr. Martinez shares valuable insights on marketable skills for play therapists that are truly a goldmine for anyone interested in this noble profession. This is an episode you wouldn't want to miss if you're interested in the magic of play therapy and child-directed play.

If you, or someone you know, is having mental health challenges and is in need of assistance, please contact 988.


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