Cheaper Than Therapy with Vanessa and Dené

In this heartfelt final episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we reflect on the last four years, all of our challenges and personal growth, and the significance of our friendship while preparing to close this chapter. While it's farewell to the podcast for now, it's not farewell to us. Join our online community to stay in touch with multiple live weekly process groups and workshops, and stay in touch with us for upcoming retreats. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨How both of our perspectives on so many things have evolved since the podcast's early days, from the challenges of motherhood to deepening our clinical skills, and how much we've used the podcast for processing life experiences✨ An emphasis on how our shared struggles have shaped our friendship and influenced our professional work, and how candidly the topic of motherhood has been approached on Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast since day one✨Gratitude for our friendship and the unique dynamic we've built between us, and how supporting each other's growth has been vital to both the podcast's success and our personal journeys✨As we prepare to end the podcast, we do so with gratitude and reflect on the importance of honoring life's cycles, embracing endings as a necessary part of growth

In our second to last episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Reverend Michael Beckwith, founder of the Agape Spiritual Center, the Take Back Your Mind podcast, and bestselling author of “Life Visioning™,” “The Answer is You,” and “Spiritual Liberation.” Reverend Michael shares journey from being a psychobiology major to becoming a spiritual leader and the profound insights he's gained along the way, particularly about the rise of the feminine energy and spiritual awakening. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨The global shift toward feminine energy and collective spiritual awakening, and why Reverend Michael believes that this movement is essential for healing the planet and fostering deeper unity among people✨ Reverend Michael's personal spiritual experiences, including profound mystical events that changed his perception of reality, and how these moments helped him embrace his spiritual gifts and lead others on their own awakening journeys✨The need for living with intention, rather than reacting to circumstances, and how intention acts as a guiding force, helping individuals align with their spiritual purpose in order to navigate life more authentically and meaningfully

Ep 234: Friendships & GoodbyesIn this emotional and reflective episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we discuss the cycles of relationships, touching on our personal friendship dynamics and the upcoming conclusion of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast after an incredible 4 years. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨ An emphasis on the importance of prioritizing friendships over romantic relationships, which often get placed on a societal pedestal, and how our friendship has thrived because of our commitment to this mindset✨The cyclical nature of relationships, using the metaphor of a spiral to illustrate how old wounds and dynamics resurface, but with each turn of the spiral, they move further from the center, showing growth and healing✨Exploring the concept of respecting where each person is in their development and capacity to engage in relationships, and how recognizing that capacity in one another helps prevent the ego from taking a “one-up” position, allowing for empathy and understanding✨The conclusion of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast after 4 years together, our immense gratitude for this journey, our guests, and you - the amazing community we've built together

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Sabrina Zohar, a prominent voice in dating and relationship psychology and host of the Sabrina Zohar Show, a top resource for no-nonsense relationship advice backed by the expertise of board-certified and licensed psychologists. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨ How dating emotionally unavailable people will often lead to the realization that you are emotionally unavailable, showing the importance of accountability vs blame in relationships ✨Why we should challenge common social media dating advice like “If they wanted to, they would,” due to a need for deeper self-reflection and understanding, rather than blindly following oversimplified advice✨How past trauma can influence current dating patterns and the importance of healing from these experiences so you are able to approach relationships by prioritizing authenticity and depth over superficial connections✨The importance of maintaining high standards in dating without getting caught in unrealistic ideals, and to begin prioritizing compatibility and shared values over physical appearance or fleeting excitement

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Michelle, who is struggling with her husband's mental health issues and their recent impact on their family dynamics. The conversation explores step-parenting, mental health in relationships, and more.What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨ The difficulties in finding common ground with her husband regarding parenting decisions, especially as her children have grown older✨ What to do when when mental health struggles have created an ongoing sense of unpredictability and fear within the family dynamic✨ Approaching conversations with curiosity and vulnerability, and the possibility that open communication about their fears and past traumas could help alleviate some of the tension in the relationship✨Why it's important to take accountability in relationships and address your own trauma to recalibrate your own nervous system to better cope with the present, and how by doing the necessary inner work, you can embrace the good surrounding your external

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Gabriella Ulloa and Meadowlark Monaghan, co-hosts of the “Thoughts May Vary” podcast; a podcast about changing our minds, with the common threads of mental health and nuance weaved throughout. We talk about mental health and the value of open, honest conversations & feeing understood in relationships.What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨Normalizing exploring mental health conversations in an approachable and authentic way, without falling into toxic positivity ✨The value of holding space for differing opinions and the need for discussions that allow for change and growth✨Approaching the topics of mental health with compassion and understanding, and the importance of feeling safe to speak openly about difficult subjects without fear of judgment✨The importance of vulnerability in relationships, both romantic and platonic, and why showing up authentically, especially in the messiest parts of life, is crucial for building deep, authentic connections

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Sarah, who is grappling with the aftermath of overhearing a negative conversation about herself between her in-laws and parents. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨Exploring the motivation behind listening to a recorded conversation and why it's important to consider the deeper truths that might be present in the feedback✨The challenge of reconciling the desire for space and healing coupled with the pressure from others to resolve the conflict quickly, and why setting boundaries for space to process your emotions is important✨Why personal accountability is important and how our past experiences can influence our behavior✨Sometimes healing can be complicated and relationships have to change, so allowing yourself to feel your emotions fully is important for a sense of clarity, self-awareness, and spiritual growth

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Africa Brooke, internationally acclaimed consultant, credentialed coach, speaker, and podcaster to discuss self-censorship, brave expression, navigating complex social dynamics, and how to trust your inner voice. Her book, The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance is available now! What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨Why non-binary thinking is necessary to breaking free of self-censorship and having open, authentic conversation✨The significance of brave expression in the age of intolerance, and the struggle to remain authentic when facing societal pressures that go against your own truth✨How social media may have amped the culture of fear and intolerance, and why focusing on meaningful posting and interacting may have more authentic results than performative social media presences✨The necessity of holding space for nuance in difficult conversations, and why true understanding doesn't always mean agreement

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Erica to talk about her struggles with managing strong emotions and staying grounded in emotionally overwhelming situations, and what to do when you tend to outwardly focus on others when overwhelmed, and how to trust your inner voice and listen to Self. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨How somatic tools can help manage intense feelings during moments of emotional overwhelm✨ The importance of self-compassion and acceptance when dealing with big emotions, and how to uncouple negative beliefs from emotional reactions✨Why being emotionally vulnerable and authentic can feel challenging when learning how to trust your inner voice

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, licensed psychologist, author, speaker, and founder and host of Therapy for Black Girls, a podcast and platform dedicated to making mental health topics more relevant and accessible for Black women. We discuss Dr. Joy's journey to creating a significant platform aimed at destigmatizing mental health issues among Black women, community, generational trauma, self-awareness and spiritual growth, and more. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨The critical role that community plays in mental health, particularly in the context of collective trauma and support systems✨Dr. Joy emphasizes the intertwined nature of spirituality and mental health in Black communities, advocating for a holistic approach to well-being.✨The impact of generational trauma and the importance of acknowledging and healing these deep-seated wounds to foster overall mental health

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Jill, a single mother and entrepreneur who is navigating the challenges of rebuilding her life after leaving a toxic and abusive marriage. The conversation touches on how to trust your inner voice, boundaries, impacts of relationships on children, and more. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨How societal and cultural pressures can cause us to feel like we need external validation and approval, and how that can make it difficult to learn how to trust your inner voice, especially after leaving an abusive relationship ✨The importance of making independent decisions, even in what seems like small daily matters, as a way to reclaim personal agency and build trust in Self✨The significant impact past relationships have on children, highlighting the importance of modeling healthy behaviors and open communication to break generational cycles of trauma✨Why seeking family therapy to facilitate open discussions and provide a supportive environment is key to heal and grow together

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Lisa Marchiano, LCSW, NCPsyA, a Jungian analyst, author, and podcaster. Her writings have appeared in numerous publications. She is the co-host and creator of the popular depth psychology podcast This Jungian Life. She is on the faculty of the C. G. Jung Institute of Philadelphia, and lectures and teaches widely. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨The significance of feminine archetypes, like Lilith and Eve, and how they represent different aspects of the feminine experience and self-empowerment✨Why recognizing and integrating shadow aspects like anger and assertiveness can lead to personal growth and authenticity, teaching you how to trust your inner voice✨How embracing the power of storytelling and sharing personal stories fairytales can facilitate deeper understanding and healing in both therapy and personal life

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we address listener questions around boundaries and dealing with significant changes in your relationships. We discuss themes around abandonment, setting boundaries, and accountability vs blame in relationships. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨How a fear of abandonment can make setting and maintaining boundaries challenging/unclear, often leading to negative responses from others✨The importance of accountability vs blame in relationships, and not personalizing others' actions✨Distinguishing between someone's capacity to show up in a relationship and their desire to do so, and that a lack of capacity doesn't necessarily mean a lack of care✨How controlling behaviors stem from deep-seated fears of abandonment and emphasize the need for self-reflection and personal responsibility to take accountability in relationships and foster healthier relationships

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Joy, who is navigating the complex and practical life challenges following the end of a long-term relationship. We explore the difficulties of fully moving on when there is significant overlap in social and professional circles, and how to handle lingering feelings especially during potential future interactions. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨The importance of self awareness in recognizing and validating your feelings of discomfort and jealousy, and why radical acceptance of these emotions is a key part of the healing process✨Why you need to fully grieve the ending of a relationship, and why both intellectual acceptance and emotional processing are crucial for moving forward✨ Finding a way to balance your desire to share your experience with others and not bleeding your pain onto them by prioritizing tending to your own wounds before engaging in activism or public discussion

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jody Carrington, psychologist, speaker, and three time author known for her expertise in trauma, connection, relationships, and mental health, to discuss emotional regulation, how to be emotionally available in what Dr. Jody calls a loneliness epidemic, and the transformative power of leading with kindness and compassion. What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨The importance of emotional regulation as the foundation for healthy relationships and effective leadership✨The need for more supports for first responders and the effects of organizational trauma✨ Why our society may be facing a loneliness epidemic and why professionals like teachers, therapists, and first responders need increased supports for the well-being of their communities

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we delve into the complexities of the therapeutic process and how to trust your inner voice as you navigate the challenges of finding the right therapist for yourself. If you have a question for Dené and Vanessa, click here. Or, if you'd like to apply for a live coaching session, click here.What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨The importance, as a therapist, to understand individual client needs and examine your own reactions and countertransference during therapy✨How interviewing therapists is similar to the early stages of dating, and why you should ask potential therapists about their own therapy experiences and their modalities to help ensure alignment within the relationship✨ Why the relationship between therapist and client is crucial for effective therapy, and why open communication is the best way to foster a healthy and vulnerable relationship between you and your therapist

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Veronica, joining us for a second live coaching session, to discuss her experiences with social anxiety and navigating calm environments after growing up in a chaotic household. If you have a question for Dené and Vanessa, click here. Or, if you'd like to apply for a live coaching session, click here.What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨Why growing up in chaos can lead to feeling uncomfortable and anxious in calm environments, and how to begin to reset your nervous system ✨The importance of somatic awareness and understanding your body's responses to specific environments and triggers✨ How approaching new relationships from a mindset of being in-service, rather than reciprocation, can help ease the fear of vulnerability when forming new connections

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down with Todd Baratz, LMHC, a certified sex therapist, licensed individual and couples psychotherapist, co-host of the Our Diagnonsense Podcast, and writer who specializes in relationships and sex. We talk about relationships, his philosophy that “you aren't fucked up - our culture is,” and his first book, How to Love Someone Without Losing Your Mind which is available now! Todd is one of our favorite people and we had so much fun during this conversation. We know you're going to have so many take-aways and love this conversation with him, as well!What You'll Gain from this Episode:✨ The complex reality of therapeutic support on social media, it's influence on current societal trends, and the need to hold space for the inevitable lack of nuance that exists in the digital world✨ An emphasis on the importance of understanding the complexities and meanings behind behaviors, rejecting black-and-white thinking, and taking personal responsibility to recognize the influence of social norms on your own personal development✨ How our relationship structures are evolving in ways that offer less dogma and more authenticity in our healing, and how that's begun to shift the societal “normal” away from staying in unhealthy relationships ✨The necessity for therapists to check in with their countertransference and not be too quick to look for a solution when “stuck” is a necessary stage of their own personal development

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we talk about a conversation we've been hearing around celibacy as a form of activism and a way to shift the often challenging landscape of modern dating and traditional gender dynamics.Some Takeaways from this episode:✨ How a recent controversy around the new Bumble ad-campaign has a seemingly tone-deaf message toward women in 2024✨ The 4B Feminist movement happening in South Korea advocating for non-hetero relationships, hetero-celibacy, and child-less lives, and how the awareness of it is shaping conversations around relationship dynamics worldwide ✨ How there seems to be a disconnect between cis men and women and how they experience what is happening in heterosexual relationship dynamics ✨ We share insights from a historian about the concept of incels and what the evolution of masculinity will look like in a post-patriarchal culture

In this Q&A episode, someone wrote in to ask: as I'm starting to do recovery work around codependency, I find that I sometimes swing into hyper-independence. How do I find a middle ground? We talked about:✨What it looks like to move out of the space of enmeshment into a differentiated sense of self.✨Realizing that we staying present with ourselves is a practice that we all have to continuously come back to.✨The evolution of relationships that are co-created by the people involved instead of looking to society to define what's “normal.” ✨Understanding the distinction between attachment and intimacy and how we can fall into patterns of self-abandonment

We'll be back with all new episodes of Cheaper than Therapy starting next week! But we're so excited about the launch of Dr. Shefali's new podcast, PARENTING & YOU, that we wanted to do a throwback episode to when we had her on the podcast to talk about her most recent book, The Parenting Map. Dr. Shefali is not your typical parenting expert and PARENTING & YOU is not your typical parenting podcast. There are no guest experts or celebrities. Every episode has 2 parents being helped through their parenting journey.It's raw, real and totally relatable.In Ep. 142, we did an Instagram Live with Dr. Shefali, three time New York Times best-sellers author, including her two landmark books The Conscious Parent and The Awakened Family. We talked about:

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy, we sit down to discuss transitions and the concept of liminal spaces, and how these transitional moments challenge existing paradigms, inviting personal and societal transformations.Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Why these phases of major transition can feel deeply unsettling but are necessary for for growth and true authenticity to Self✨ How traditional life scripts and societal norms are being questioned and dismantled, offering a unique opportunity to redefine values and ways of living in more authentic and fulfilling ways✨ The importance of staying true to your authentic Self in the face of societal expectations, even when you feel uncertain and “othered”

In this episode, we go into our archives and bring back one of our first episodes EVER with our good friend, Ashley Torrent. Ashley is a psycho-spritual counselor and intuitive medium, Co-Host of “The Blue Butterfly Effect” and “The Practice of Love” podcasts, and recurring guest on the “Single on Purpose” podcast. Dené and Vanessa sit down to talk with Ashley about her journey and insights into holistic therapy, and her practice of blending clinical psychology with spiritual practices to help clients navigate their emotional and spiritual well-being and challenges. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ The importance of being present and curious about oneself, and how that practice of mindfulness can accelerate the healing process and give you insight to a bigger purpose, providing additional emotional support in your healing journey✨ How combining empathy and intuition in therapy allows a deeper connection between therapist and client, allowing authentic connection and healing ✨ The challenges and rewards of being a therapist, particularly as an intuitive, and the delicate balance of maintaining professional boundaries with deep empathy

This episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast is from an Instagram live with Vaness and Mark Groves, Human Connection Specialist and founder of Create The Love. Mark works as a bridge between the academic and the human, inviting people to explore the good, bad, downright ugly, and beautiful sides of connection. Join us as we talk emotional armor, the necessity of integrating bodywork with talk therapy, relationships as the jump off point for our deeper internal work, co-regulation and of course codependency!

Ep 212: Complex Connections: Navigating Feedback with AuthenticityThis episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast is part of a series where we answer questions submitted by listeners. We dive into the complexities of accountability in all relationships. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨Recurring Themes in Society: Many of the topics addressed in the show are themes that have come up repeatedly within therapeutic spaces, reflecting collective societal trends and healing journeys indicating a widespread desire to evolve past self-abandonment and the cultivation of healthier relationships ✨Staying Authentic: The importance of staying true to your beliefs and message, even when it may not resonate with everyone, to remain authentic to Self✨ Personal Accountability: Consider how you may be self-abandoning or using relationships as a means to avoid addressing something you may need to work through, and how deeper self-examination will naturally lead to more authentic relationships✨Complexity and Nuance in Human Behavior: Not simplifying complex human behaviors into labels (like narcissist), and instead take a compassionate and curious approach to understanding others' actions, promoting dialogue that embraces the full complexity of human experiences and interactions

In this Cheaper than Therapy episode, we sit down with Dr. Peter Levine for a deep dive into the complexity of trauma, and the transformative possibilities within therapeutic practices. Dr. Levine holds a doctorate in biophysics and a doctorate in psychology. He is the developer of Somatic Experiencing and Somatic Experiencing International, a naturalistic and neurobiological approach to healing trauma, Founder and President of the Ergos Institute for Somatic Education, dedicated to community outreach and post-advanced somatic experiencing training, and author of several best-selling books on trauma. His work has been taught to over 30,000 therapists in over 42 countries. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Trauma and the Body: The importance of recognizing that trauma is not merely a brain disorder, but becomes deeply embedded in the body's responses and requires therapeutic techniques that addresses physical manifestations of trauma(s)✨Interconnectedness of Generations: How trauma is interconnected across generations and survival mechanisms passed down, recognizing that patterns and responses inherited from ancestors may not just be through behavior, but through epigenetic modifications✨ Healing in Community: The importance of community and collective healing practices when addressing trauma, and that the often isolated approach to mental health should be replaced with communal support systems and shared healing experiences

In this special Cheaper than Therapy episode, we sit down with our friend Rainier Wylde in person to talk about the often painful truth of love's impermanence and conditionality, and how love can lead to personal growth. Rainier is a highly sought after mentor and consultant to authors, athletes, business professionals, coaches, healers, and ordinary radicals who want to see change in their world. He is known for his unique blend of spirituality and in depth strategic coaching and is the author of “As You Are: Meditations on Self & Other” and the co-host of Love Like Hell podcast.Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨The Link Between Love and Loss: The importance of embracing loss as an inevitable part of all relationships and that grief and joy are intertwined✨Fantasy Love and Consequences: The misconceptions about the idea of “fantasy love” and pitfalls of chasing unconditional love in romantic relationships✨ The Evolution of Love through Life: How the progression of love, from initially meeting to the mature connection highlights how love is a dynamic force that can foster profound inner growth and self-alignment✨Parental Love and Selfhood: The complexities of parental love and the challenges of maintaining your sense of self, especially in romantic relationshipsConnect with Rainer:Podcast: Love Like HellInstagram: @rainerwyldeBook: As You Are: Meditations on Self and Other

This episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast is part of a series where we answer questions submitted by listeners. Today's listener writes in concerned about a loved one's abusive marriage, asking how to balance personal boundaries and navigate the challenges supporting a loved one in an abusive relationships. If you have a question for Vanessa and Dené, click here.Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨Supporting without Enabling: The importance of offering love and support without enabling or trying to rescue your loved one✨Challenging and Honest Communication: How to navigate the complexities of honest communication when trying to help a loved one see the reality of their situation, with a recommendation for trying to be a "release valve" for frustrations and addressing issues directly with those involved, rather than using others as a sounding board✨Personal Boundaries and Self-Reflection: Understanding your own motivations and biases to ensure your offered support is genuinely in your loved one's best interest, and allowing the individual to navigate their own path, ultimately respecting their right to make their own choices

This episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast is part of a series where we answer questions submitted by listeners. Today, we're addressing the discomfort some listeners have talking about relationships, specifically when discussing the evolving paradigms of love and partnership and our ownership template of relationships. If you have a question for Vanessa and Dené, click here.Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨Shifting Perspective: While uncomfortable, it is important to shift your viewpoint of relationships in a way that prioritizes personal responsibility and growth over controlling others, as a way to foster more genuine connections✨ The Role of Control: Recognizing that attempting to control our environment and the people around us is actually anxiety and/or fear manifesting and the first step to breaking free from codependency✨Navigating Activation and Resistance: Remember that when feeling activated, it's an invitation to look inward and focus on Self, pushing past the discomfort ✨Empowerment through Agency: By focusing on what we can control (our actions, responses, participation, etc.) we reclaim our power and cultivate healthier, more authentic connections

This episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast is part of a series where we answer questions submitted by listeners. A listener writes in expressing concern about her boyfriend checking out other women in public, despite repeatedly expressing her discomfort to him. We dive into relationship dynamics, and how sometimes fixating on others' behavior can be a distraction from your own personal growth. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨Self-Focus Over Partner-Surveillance: When you notice yourself becoming focused on a partner's behaviors it's a clear sign that your energy should be redirected inward and focus on personal development✨ Relationships as a Platform for Growth: Relationships should be a catalyst for personal development, rather than a means to seek external validation ✨Acceptance of Who Your Partner Is: Attempting to change fundamental aspects of a partner's personality or habits, especially if they existed prior to the relationship, is futile ✨Fallacy of Control: Relationships dynamics should be safe for each person to be their full authentic self, with a focus on mutual growth and understanding instead of control

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Nedra Glover Tawwab, MSW, LCSW - author of three bestselling books, licensed therapist, and renowned relationship expert with 15 years of experience in relationship therapy. She is the founder of Kaleidoscope Counseling, where she aids individuals in cultivating healthy relationships through boundary implementation. Nedra's approach is grounded in the belief that many relationship issues stem from a lack of boundaries and assertiveness.Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨Boundaries are Positive: While boundaries are often seen as a way to keep people out, setting boundaries for yourself within relationships with others creates an innate sense of security and trust, rather than seeking it externally, leading to healthier, balanced, and more authentic relationships✨ Motherhood and Personal Capacity: Becoming a parent reduces the capacity you have for taking on the responsibility of other peoples' problems and creates more invisible labor for your day to day, making it absolutely crucial to have open conversations within relationships, and setting boundaries to take care of your well-being✨ Social Media has Limits: It's important to remember the humanness behind social media and set boundaries for sharing, interacting, as well as consuming to protect our time, mental health, and maintain authentic connections with others

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sit down to address two questions submit by listeners with similar “energies.” One listener wants to know how to stop comparing themselves to their partners ex and feeling insecure in their ability to trust due to past relationships. Another listener is looking for clarification differentiating between an anxious attachment versus being a human seeking safety, consistency, and reassurance in a relationship. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Safety in Self: Having an internal sense of security and interdependence will help to ease the insecurity of self-comparison, rather than repeatedly seeking outside validation to temporarily make you feel safe and secure✨ Boundaries Help Personal Growth: Taking personal responsibility to remain authentically true to Self and maintaining personal boundaries to honor that authenticity over a partner's insecurities ✨ Managing Anxiety: Seeking constant reassurance and validation can create a perception the relationship is unsafe, so take time to actively recognize and appreciate what about the relationship makes you feel good and secure in the attachment

In this live coaching session episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Lynn, who is approaching dating for the first real time in her life while simultaneously navigating being a young widow. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ It's all about Self-Discovery: When approaching dating for the first real time and/or after a loss, you're really on a journey of self-discovery and self-exploration, which is really all being a human is, anyway. ✨ A Balancing Act: Being open-minded to what the universe has to offer and taking your time, while simultaneously desiring to start a family and feeling pressured to do so quickly ✨ Trusting Yourself: Learning how to trust yourself again after experiencing a great loss that leaves you shaken

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat back down with Annie Undone, a visionary artist and writer working to normalize diverse relationship styles and varied sexual experiences. She is a queer, kinky, relationship anarchist on a mission to incite individuals to experience personal revolutions. Get ready for an exciting and revolutionary conversation about deconstructing not only your romantic and sexual relationships with others, but your relationship with Self. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Decentering Romantic Relationships: The importance of an autonomous relationship with Self and the pursuit of your most authentic life, regardless of conventional societal norms and expectations. ✨Unpacking Jealousy: Welcoming jealousy in your relationships as an opportunity for growth rather than conflict, especially where it relates to non monogamy and polyamory ✨Doing the Work: The heavy emotional lifting required when you open yourself up to relationship anarchy, non monogamy, and polyamory, particularly with trust and attachment

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Annie Undone, a visionary artist and writer working to normalize diverse relationship styles and varied sexual experiences. She is a queer, kinky, relationship anarchist on a mission to incite individuals to experience personal revolutions. Get ready for an exciting and revolutionary conversation about deconstructing not only your romantic and sexual relationships with others, but your relationship with Self. Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Decentering Romantic Relationships: The importance of an autonomous relationship with Self and the pursuit of your most authentic life, regardless of conventional societal norms and expectations. ✨Relationship Anarchy: Deconstructing what society says a romantic relationship is “supposed” to look like, and creating a sustainable model for romantic and sexual relationships that works specifically for the people in them✨Non-Monogamy and Autonomous Growth: How ignoring societal norms and journeying into non-monogamy, kink, and relationship anarchy can lead to deep introspection and embracing your most authentic Self and genuine romantic and sexual relationships✨ Compassionate Curiosity is Key: Staying open-minded and curious as you challenge traditional relationships while simultaneously holding compassion for your partners' questions, fears, and desires is absolutely key when exploring polyamorous relationships and other varied relationship styles and sexual experiences

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Alexandra Roxo (@alexandraroxo), a bestselling author, artist, spiritual seeker, and teacher and mentor in the space of feminine embodiment, sacred sexuality, and spiritual transformation. Alexandra has mentored thousands of women in embodying the fullness of their authentic, magnificent Self, and seeing it as sacred and necessary medicine for the planet. On her retreats around the world, she has spoken about the modern sacred feminine spiritual path, and helped many women heal their relationships to their body and their sexuality. Her latest book Dare to Feel: The Transformational Path of the Heart is available now! Some Takeaways from this Episode:✨Feel your Feelings: Why intentionally and artfully feeling our feelings, instead of being afraid of them or intellectualizing them, is such a fundamental aspect of the spiritual path ✨Unique Spiritual Journeys: The importance of holding space for where others might be in their own spiritual development instead of labeling or othering them for not being as embodied as we feel like they ‘should' be ✨Embodied Authenticity: Why the embodied space of our feelings can serve as an invitation to those we love to be present with us, over the critiques and judgements we often use as a means to avoid our feelings ✨ Start Small: How we can use various access points to start titrating our way into feeling bigger feelings so that we don't get overwhelmed by moving too quickly

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Brandi Sellerz-Jackson, a renowned birth and postpartum doula and what she calls a Life Doula (supporting people through various life transitions); the co-founder of Moms in Color, a Black mom collective centered on celebrating diversity in motherhood; and the creator of Not So Private Parts, a resource that removes the shame and stigma surrounding women's issues. Some Big Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Why it's so important to prioritize a relationship with yourself first so that all of your other relationships can be the icing on your cake - instead of all of the ingredients ✨How much is lost for mothers when they don't have a community of women ushering them through the cataclysmic internal shift that occurs when you become a mama✨The impact of childhood trauma on our adult relationships - and why sometimes our relationship ruptures can serve as a beautiful catalyst to investing in time and space for healing ✨How to do the work of discovering what our version of a life where we feel like we are thriving looks and feels like You can purchase Brandi's book on thriving here:

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy, the Podcast, we talk about the history, the why, and the way forward surrounding the societal norm for women to tear one another down. We talk about using this practice as a point of entry to examine and excavate our inner misogyny and begin to heal our inherited sister wound.Some Big Takeaways from this Episode:✨ Support not Competition: Patriarchal foundations have created societal norms that condition women to view one another as competition, rather than form secure attachments and create community✨Inner Healing is Collective Healing: Going inward and examining our own insecurities and limiting beliefs is imperative to coming together in safety and community

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Alexandra Ballensweig to discuss modern dating, the importance of approaching dating with awareness and slowness, and the drawbacks of online dating and dating apps. Alexandra Ballensweig is the founder of HumHum (short for human to human) a dating experience for people seeking meaningful and authentic connection with others, while simultaneously discovering themselves. Alexandra is a certified Kundalini Yoga teacher, Reiki Master Teacher, and practitioner trained in the Usui Method, and a Vipassana practitioner. She holds an M.S. of Industrial Design from Art Center College of Design and is currently enrolled in the Dedicated Practitioner's Program at Spirit Rock Meditation Center.

This episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast is part of a series where we coach one of our listeners through a topic or question. In this coaching session, we sat down with “Jane” to discuss moving forward with ending a 12 year relationship stuck in an unhealthy cycle, while attempting to co-parent a child together. If you're interested in joining us for a coaching session, click here.

Dr. Laura Anderson, PhD. is a psychotherapist, trauma resolution coach and consultant, writer and educator specializing in complex and developmental trauma, dynamics of power and control and religious trauma. In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy the Podcast, we sat down with Dr. Anderson to discuss all things spirituality and religious trauma, and about her book “When Religion Hurts You.”

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy, we sat down for an IG LIVE to talk about reclaiming the feminine aspects of ourselves and why this is the basis of so much of the relational work that we feel so strongly about as therapists.

In this episode of Cheaper than Therapy, we sit down with “Veronica” to discuss how much sharing is too much in friendships and romantic relationships, especially in the early stages. How do you bond and create authentic connections through vulnerability when your past feels like it's too heavy for others?If you're interested in joining us for a coaching session, click here.

This Cheaper than Therapy episode is part of a series where we coach one of our listeners through a topic or question. In this coaching session, we sat down with “Spencer” to talk about conquering codependency within romantic relationships, and finding self-worth and sourcing validation from within, rather than external relationships. If you're interested in joining us for a coaching session, click here.

Are cis/hetero men biologically programmed to experience a type of “post-sex clarity,” or have both men and women fallen victim to the societal norm of objectifying one another and dealing (or not dealing) with the repercussions later? In this Cheaper than Therapy episode, we discuss a recent episode on Vanessa's partner, John's, podcast discussing whether or not men have a biological predisposition that makes them interested in dating a specific woman until immediately after having sex with her.

In this Q&A episode of “Cheaper than Therapy,” a listener finds themself ready to begin dating after a long post-divorce hiatus, but finds themself overwhelmed with worry about choosing “wrong.” We discuss getting vulnerable to find the real information you need when dating, and get real about expectations in relationships.

What do you do when you find yourself craving a secure and trusting monogamous relationship but don't want to contribute to the societal expectations, rooted in patriarchy, that traditionally influence the foundation of relationships? In this Q&A episode of “Cheaper than Therapy,” a male listener writes in, asking, “Where do I go from here?”

“When you have the clarity of your essence - who you are, what you stand for, what you believe in, and then also your ambition distilled in a way that sticks, in a way that you remember it, you can call it in and call upon it whenever you need” - Bonnie Wan Bonnie Wan is an author and a speaker as well as Partner and Head of Brand Strategy at the world renowned advertising agency, Goodby Silverstein Partners. Alongside her new book, The Life Brief, Bonnie helps people live with greater clarity, creativity, and courage by teaching them how to write “creative briefs” for their lives. Some big takeaways from this episode: Perceived selfishness is good: it's okay to sit with yourself and ask what you want, even if it feels selfish and/or uncomfortable  Our partnerships are most vulnerable in transition: when we're faced with new life milestones we bring a period of transition into our lives that shines a spotlight on cracks in our relationships, forcing us to make conscious, intentional choices Allow yourself to get messy: acknowledge that our society puts pressure on women to hustle and be perfectionists, but courage, creativity, joy, and so many other things are found in the mess Pre-Order “The Life Brief” Here Website Instagram If you find value in these conversations, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast. It helps us reach a larger audience looking for soulful insights! And, for an even deeper dive, check out our newly launched online community, Cheaper Than Therapy Community. Weekly process groups, live workshops, and one-on-one interactions with us and an amazing supportive community! Check it out here: https://vanessa-bennett-dene-logan.myshopify.com/collections/the-community  Connect with Vanessa: Instagram: @vanessasbennett TikTok: @thecodayoda YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vanessabennettlmft5631  Connect with Dené: Instagram: @dene.logan TikTok: @dene.logan ------------------------------ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when we find ourselves so engrossed in society's standards that we lose touch with our Self and inner knowing? In this live coaching session, we sit down with Catherine to talk about what it looks like to reconnect with our inner child and break codependent patterns. Some big takeaways from this episode: Recognizing that we are not there to fix others' emotions, but to support them and hold our own emotional boundaries Finding where we feel an anxious attachment in our body, and how to reconnect with ourselves to soothe our nervous system back to safety The importance of being in relationship with Self rather than seeking fulfillment within a partnership If you find value in these conversations, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast. It helps us reach a larger audience looking for soulful insights! And, for an even deeper dive, check out our newly launched online community, Cheaper Than Therapy Community. Weekly process groups, live workshops, and one-on-one interactions with us and an amazing supportive community! Check it out here: https://vanessa-bennett-dene-logan.myshopify.com/collections/the-community  Connect with Vanessa: Instagram: @vanessasbennett TikTok: @thecodayoda YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vanessabennettlmft5631  Connect with Dené: Instagram: @dene.logan TikTok: @dene.logan ------------------------------ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda Pua Walsh, M.S., is the CEO & Founder of Astrology Hub, an online platform for astrological guidance and education reaching hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. She's the creator of the top-rated Astrology Hub Podcast with over 5 million downloads to date.  The insights from her first Astrology reading illuminated a path forward for Amanda. She found hope, clarity and direction - which inspired her to create a platform that makes finding high-quality astrologers for readings and astrological education and guidance accessible to the masses.

What happens when you don't follow society's expected relationship timeline? In this live coaching session episode, we talk about what it looks like to navigate walking a non-traditional path and taking the road less traveled. Alana opens up about her transformative decisions—whether it's breaking off a long-term relationship, returning to graduate school, or challenging societal norms around marriage and family.