Things You Learn in Therapy

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when our favorite TV shows influence our understanding of real-life medical experiences? Today on "Things You Learn in Therapy," we welcome back Victoria Rodriguez to unpack this question. Victoria shares her personal journey with chronic illnesses and the impact of shows like Grey's Anatomy on public perception. We examine the concept of complex medical PTSD and debunk common myths surrounding chronic health issues, while uncovering the persistent stress that patients endure.

Navigating chronic health issues often feels like a never-ending odyssey, especially when it comes to elusive diagnoses. Victoria and I discuss how societal norms can lead individuals to downplay their symptoms, causing emotional distress and self-doubt. We highlight the significance of validating these experiences and the bittersweet emotions that come with finally receiving a diagnosis. The conversation underscores the importance of addressing the emotional toll and maintaining hope throughout the treatment process.

Chronic illnesses do not just affect the body; they take a significant toll on mental health too. Stress, particularly, can exacerbate conditions like autoimmune disorders. Victoria and I reflect on the lessons learned, emphasizing the need for mental health support in chronic health management. We also delve into the essential role of caregivers and how therapists can offer compassionate support. By fostering empathy and understanding, we can improve the quality of care for those battling chronic illnesses. Tune in for a compelling discussion that offers practical advice and heartfelt insights into the world of chronic illness and medical trauma.




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.

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

Tune in for my DEBRIEF after listening to Dr. Michael Alcee's episode from Monday. Also - be sure to check out tomorrow's episode with the amazing Dr. Victoria Rodriguez!

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 Fan Mail

Unlock the hidden strengths of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with our special guest, Dr. Michael Alcée. In our latest episode, we promise to change the way you perceive OCD by highlighting the unique gifts and deep emotional layers often overshadowed by the diagnosis. Gain insights into Dr. Alcée's mission to humanize this condition and discover how understanding the person behind the disorder can lead to more compassionate and effective therapy.

We explore the intense and complex emotions experienced by those with OCD, challenging the one-dimensional focus of traditional therapies like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). By reflecting on historical figures such as Charles Darwin, who showcased remarkable creativity alongside OCD tendencies, Dr. Alcée introduces the concept of "negative capability" — the ability to tolerate ambiguity and mystery — as a therapeutic tool. Through empathy and a broader emotional approach, this episode shines a light on the richness of human experience in those with OCD, making a case for a balanced treatment that includes both exposure and emotional exploration.

Listen as we unravel real-life examples and diverse manifestations of OCD that compel us to rethink our approach to treatment. From contamination fears to relationship anxieties, Dr. Alcée and I discuss strategies for sitting with uncertainty and understanding the deeper emotional context behind compulsive behaviors. Reframe your perspective on OCD, seeing it not just as a challenge but as a "frenemy" offering valuable messages, ultimately advocating for a therapy approach that supports and appreciates those who think and feel deeply. Don’t miss this eye-opening and compassionate take on OCD that promises hope and understanding for sufferers and therapists alike.

To learn more about Dr. Alcée, find his website here: Michael Alcée, Ph.D. | Psychotherapy in Tarrytown, NY (michaelalcee.com) or Michael Alcee (michael-alcee.com) or email him at:
[email protected]

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 Fan Mail

Tune in for a short de-brief of last week's episode with Lianna Purjes! Also - be sure to check out this week's upcoming episode on Friday with Dr. Alcee!

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

Discover the hidden dynamics of neurodivergence in relationships as licensed clinical social worker, Lianna Purjes, uncovers the profound impact of ADHD and autism on how we connect and communicate with those closest to us. Our conversation isn't your usual relationship talk; it's an eye-opening exploration of brain diversity that challenges the norms and celebrates every individual's unique contribution to human connection. Lianna's expertise shines as we tackle the question: Can the distinct ways neurodivergent individuals perceive the world be seen as superpowers rather than hurdles?

Communication can be a minefield, but Lianna and I share personal anecdotes and strategies to help you navigate it with grace and understanding. We delve into the power of non-verbal cues and the art of establishing communication ground rules that honor the intentions and emotional languages of everyone involved. By tuning into these subtle details and being explicit in our needs, we can prevent small misunderstandings from escalating and cultivate deeper intimacy within our relationships. Our discussion offers a roadmap to turning conflict into connection by fostering a shared language that resonates with both neurotypical and neurodivergent partners.

Finally, we turn the spotlight on the delicate dance of emotional support within neurodivergent relationships, where mismatched needs can often lead to frustration. Learn how to co-regulate and explicitly communicate your emotional needs with exercises designed to help articulate and understand the emotional landscape within your partnership. As we break down the dynamics between empathy and problem-solving, you'll gain actionable advice that promises to strengthen your relationship's foundation and celebrate the diversity of human connection. So, tune in for a dialogue that is as transformative as it is enlightening, and equip yourself with the tools to foster a more understanding and nurturing bond with your partner.

To learn more about Lianna and her work, visit: Relationship Therapy for Individuals & Couples in CO, AZ, & FL (fuzzysockstherapy.com)

Call: 720.378.8454  //  Email: [email protected]m

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists and 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.

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

What if rest is more than just sleep? Join me, as we uncover the nuanced differences between rest and sleep, and why both are essential for a balanced life. Through personal anecdotes, we'll connect the dots between our busy schedules and the importance of reclaiming our rest. You'll also learn how expanding your emotional vocabulary can help you articulate feelings more accurately, moving beyond the generic "tired" or "stressed" to truly understand your mental state.

In this episode, we learn into the seven types of rest as defined by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith in her book, "Sacred Rest." From physical to spiritual rest, discover how each type contributes to your overall well-being. We also explore Claudia Skowron's concept of cellular rest, emphasizing the need for intentional breaks from the constant stimuli in our lives. This isn't just about numbing out—it's about genuine rejuvenation. Tune in to gain practical strategies for integrating these diverse forms of rest into your daily routine, paving the way for a more restful and fulfilling life.

Here is a link to the article on rest: The 7 Kinds of Rest You Actually Need | Psychology Today United Kingdom
And here is a link to Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith's work: Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith | 7 Types of Rest (drdaltonsmith.com)

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow tThis 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.

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

What if a few simple changes at home could set your kids up for a successful school year? Join me, Dr. Beth Trammell, as I share actionable tips and strategies from years of clinical experience and personal parenting to ease your children into their academic routines. Whether it's resetting sleep schedules, mimicking school meal times, or gradually reducing nap times, I discuss how these small but effective adjustments at home can help your kids smoothly transition back to the classroom. Learn how to create a structured daily routine that mitigates the fatigue and irritability often associated with the back-to-school period.

Setting realistic goals for the school year is crucial, and I’ll guide you on how to make them both attainable and meaningful for your family. Avoid the common pitfalls of overly ambitious plans and focus on what truly matters to you and your loved ones. Tune in to find out how you can make this school year less stressful and more successful for everyone involved.

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists and 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]

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

Confrontation doesn't have to be a clash; it can be a gateway to growth and understanding. Discover how to harness this power with myself, Dr. Beth Trammell, and Dr. Deborah Miller, as we dissect the essence of confrontation in therapy and its transformative impact. This isn't about fostering conflict; it's about creating change with compassion. Throughout our discussion, we unpack methods to address behaviors that might block a client's progress, and we demonstrate, through role-play, the art of using soft, curiosity-based language as a catalyst for insightful revelation.

As we transition from the therapy room to everyday life, learn how the delicate art of confrontation can enrich your personal relationships. Dr. Miller and I dissect the balance between challenging behaviors and maintaining a non-judgmental stance. We explore the use of humor to defuse tense moments and the necessity of choosing wisely which patterns to confront for nurturing personal growth. So, if you're a therapist, a leader, or anyone aiming to polish your communication skills, this episode is brimming with wisdom to help you approach those moments of truth with grace and skill.

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists and 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]

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

Can you really balance a new business while caring for aging parents? Tanya Walden knows firsthand the emotional rollercoaster of trying to juggle a burgeoning childcare business with the increasing demands of her elderly parents. She opens up about the suffocating guilt and bone-deep exhaustion that come with being torn between her dream job and familial responsibilities. Tanya even dives into the evolving dynamics in her relationship with her parents, especially highlighting her father's rapid health decline and her mother's high expectations.

Our conversation doesn't shy away from the tough questions. How do caregivers cope with the logistical nightmares, especially when the pandemic has accelerated the decline in their parents' health? Tanya shares her raw, unfiltered feelings about witnessing her parents' suffering and the emotional toll of questioning their quality of life. We also touch on the friction that can arise among siblings when the caregiving burden isn't equally shared. Despite these challenges, Tanya's story is a testament to the deep love and gratitude that drive us to provide the best care for our parents. This episode is both a heartfelt and enlightening exploration of the complexities of caregiving.

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]

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Send us Fan Mail

Caring for our aging parents isn't easy or fun or without its emotional ups and downs. Katie Williams, a former teacher and a stay-at-home mom, shares her raw and heartfelt journey in this episode of "Things You Learn in Therapy." Katie dives into the unexpected challenges and emotional tolls that come with being part of the "sandwich generation." From juggling the responsibilities of both parenting and caregiving to finding moments of joy on the dance floor, Katie's story is both relatable and inspiring. Her experiences shed light on the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of finding humor even in the most trying times.

The emotional, physical, and mental demands of caregiving are immense, but so is the importance of making our loved ones feel safe.  But amidst the heavy responsibilities, we emphasize the necessity of open communication, selfless service, and the power of laughter. Join us for practical advice, emotional support, and a shared reminder that "we can do hard things" 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]

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com