In this inaugural episode of Etymologies of Care, Host Paul Lichtenberg shares his journey from traditional psychotherapy to developing integrative relational health, exploring how language shapes our experience of suffering and healing. This opening episode invites you to reflect on the power of words, the limits of diagnostic labels, and the possibilities for deeper connection and care.

Topics:

* Paul’s background as a psychotherapist and researcher

* The limitations of traditional “fixing what’s wrong” models of therapy

* Two clinical lenses: symptom reduction vs. meaning-making

* Why language matters in shaping whether we see suffering as pathology or possibility

* Historical and cultural roots of mental health frameworks (e.g., hysteria, borderline, Cartesian dualism, nuclear family norms, industrial capitalism)

* Core themes of the podcast: recognition, historical understanding, and relational literacy

Suggested Practices:

* Notice language patterns in your next healthcare or family interaction.

* Experiment with shifting from statements to open questions and observe how it changes the relational space.

* Reflect on a moment when someone’s words fundamentally shifted your experience.

Episode Resources:

* Follow Paul on Substack

* Join The Center for Integrative Relational Health

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit integrativerelationalhealth.substack.com