Coming Into Focus

On this episode Jay sits down with friend and colleague Tim Lambesis. Tim and Jay worked together at a treatment center some years back, and Tim also happens to be the front man for the band, As I Lay Dying. In 2013, Tim was at the center of a high profile arrest and he was later convicted and sentenced to a significant time in prison. The conversation doesn't get too deep into the circumstances of the arrest, but instead focuses more on the topic of rehabilitation and reintegration. Tim also shares about a new non profit project he has been working on geared at helping other inmates get back on their feet after being released from prison. Jay and Tim also get into various other topics ranging from Tim's music, the importance of therapy, and breaking down harmful stigmas. "This episode is extremely close to my heart because I have many close friends and loved ones that have done time, paid their dues, and have gone on to do amazing things. However, the system is still largely set up in a way that statistically speaking, many will not be so fortunate. I'm extremely grateful to call Tim a friend and immensely proud of the work he has done on himself, and the work he continues to put in to help others. This is truly a great episode."- JayTim's Links:InstagramAs I Lay Dying Reintegration Vantage PointJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteFacebook Group

On this episode Jay chats with friend and colleague Noelani Dizon. Lani and Jay met several years ago while working at a treatment center for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and currently she is the program director for Whole Person Wellness, a program that assists individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Lani and Jay discuss many of her recent accomplishments and some exciting things she has on the horizon, and they really dig into childhood and adolescent struggles that almost contributed to none of this being possible. Lani gets candid about two suicide attempts in her later teens, and she shares about the power of therapy, finding authentic connections, and being willing to do the hard work required to persevere and come out the other side. Lani is a true testament to what can happen when you advocate for yourself and do what is needed to take charge of your mental health.  As an aside, there is talk about suicide in this episode. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts please contact a mental health provider or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1800-272-8255. You can also take yourself, or have a family member take you to the hospital for emergency evaluation. 

On this episode Jay sits down with Nika Hirsch. Nika is the youngest guest so far on the podcast, at 10 years old. But, as you'll hear, she's one of the most inspiring guests. Nika and her mom run an Instagram account, This Life Rocks, which documents all of her amazing accomplishments and kind deeds. From a young age Nika has been dealing with selective mutism, which is an anxiety disorder that's characterized by an inability to speak in certain social settings. So, it makes it all the more impressive that she could sit down with a total stranger and have this conversation. Nika uses her Instagram account to promote mental health awareness, spread kindness, and promote the various fundraising activities she's always coming up with. Throughout her fundraising, Nika has raised several thousand dollars, most of which has been donated to various cancer foundations due to her father battling with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, twice. In addition, at the time of recording this, Nika's dad was in the hospital recovering from a brain surgery after a new cancer showed up. Because Nika has been so brave through all that she faces, and because she does so much do help raise money for cancer research, Jay reached out to Nika's mom and asked if he could set up a fundraiser with all proceeds being donated to a cancer foundation of their choosing. If you would like to get more information on this, please visit the show's Instagram page @comingintofocus, all one word and look for the post promoting this episode. And, while you're at it, go check out This Life Rocks to see all of the amazing things Nika does. Nika's Instagram: This Life RocksJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteFacebook Group

On this episodeJay chats with Jason Naylor. Jason is an award-winning artist, designer, and creative director based in Brooklyn. Jason has received global recognition for his work, contributing to such names as Pepsi, Fenty, LuluLemon, Xbox and Sour Patch Kids, to name a few, and in 2018 BUMBLE named Jason one of the 100 Most Inspiring New Yorkers.  Jason has become known and sought after, for his unique colorful style that regularly contains messages of love and positivity, and this passion for spreading kindness has led him to collaborate with mental health organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Jason and Jay discuss how he began to home in on his particular brand, and what aspects of his own life led him to feel so passionate about contributing to overall mental health awareness. This is an extremely inspiring episode and one that you’ll probably find yourself wanting to listen to a couple of times. Jason's Links:www.jasonnaylor.nycInstagramStore: www.opnheart.comJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteFacebook Group

In this episode Jay chats with Rebecca Woolf.  Rebecca is an extremely accomplished writer, with work in such publications as The New York Times, Time Magazine, Huffington Post, and Glamour, to name a few. She also published a memoir in 2008, and has an upcoming book release in 2022, of which the content is discussed in this particular interview. Rebecca also had a wildly successful blog, "Girls Gone Child," which ran for over a decade, and even has a feature film in the works based off of a short film she debuted at the Bend Film Festival. She is also raising four incredible children on her own after losing her husband, Hal, to pancreatic cancer. Jay and Rebecca discuss the often hard to explore topic of grief and loss, and Rebecca shares the particular messiness that came with this particular loss. Rebecca's Links:www.rebeccawoolf.comInstagramTwitterJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteFacebook Group

On this episode Jay sits down with Ian Depew. Ian is a longtime friend, who also happens to be a colleague in the mental health field, and was actually Jay's first employer when he became a therapist. Ian is extremely talented and amazing at what he does, but it’s always nice to be around someone who doesn’t take themselves so seriously... as you'll see. Ian goes into detail about the incredible program, Rock to Recovery, that he works for, and the two have a discussion about interventions and Ian’s other work as an interventionist. Ian has such great energy and is a blast to be around, which you'll no doubt pick up on. Enjoy!

On this episode Jay sits down with Dr. Laura Louis. Dr. Louis is a licensed psychologist working out of Atlanta, GA, and the owner of Atlanta Couple Therapy. Dr. Louis is also an author, a highly sought after speaker, and a coach to other clinicians that are looking to break into the speaking arena. Dr. Louis and Jay share a love for working with couples, so you can bet they get into some great relationship conversations. The two also dig into the details of her book, her workshops and how she got into coaching other therapists in the realm of public speaking. Dr. Louis seems to do it all, and they cover it all! Enjoy!The "Coming Into Focus" podcast is supported Hemp Health One. Head over to www.hemphealthone.com to check out their full line of products. Listeners of the podcast can also receive 20% off at checkout by using code: focus20Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteDr. Laura Louis' Links:Atlanta Couple Therapywww.drlauralouis.com

When I started school to become a therapist, I sort of unknowingly entered a program that had a huge social justice component. I was extremely uninformed in the area of social justice, which isn’t surprising considering that as a white straight male I’m not often directly impacted by many of these issues. Being uneducated on these topics, I found myself becoming defensive often and speaking from a place of authority about things I really knew nothing about. Some of my defensiveness was directly related to feeling comments were an attacking me, and some of it was out of complete ignorance... which is ultimately why having open dialogues often felt like an attack.I used to feel frustrated thinking “It’s not my job to tell other people how to live their lives. My focus is to resolve mental health issues.” I couldn’t see how these larger systemic issues had anything to do with mental health. It was truly eye opening over the years to come to learn that these issues don’t affect MY mental health because of the bubble of privilege that protects me from them.Since leaving school, I have continued to be educated daily from experiences with my clients. I have worked with clients of multiple different ethnicities, cultures, genders and sexual orientations, and I have come to realize more and more that in order to be the therapist I want to be, I need to continue seeking education and self-reflection in the areas that are in my blind-spots.I remain committed to being being better and doing better, not only for myself but for everyone I come into contact with.Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy Website

On this episode, Jay sits down with Andy Laub. Andy is a certified tea master, a mindfulness expert, and sound healing practitioner, and just an all around interesting dude. Andy also happened to be the very first guest that Jay recorded with, but for whatever reason the episode wasn't published until now. Andy, and Jay discuss the path that led him to tea, ways to develop mindfulness practices other than just sitting and breathing, which incidentally opens a discussion about a shared interest in contemplative photography, and the two finish off strong with a great conversation about fear, faith, and gratitude. This episode covers all the bases, and does not disappoint. Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy Website

Jay and Carlie open up about the difficulty of trying to keep up with doing the "30 Day Challenge" each month, and share about the new direction of the TOPIC IN FOCUS segments. With the continuing unfolding of all aspects of COVID-19, it seemed only fitting to discuss the topic of anxiety. Using coronavirus to open up a discussion about anxiety in general, Jay and Carlie explore multiple aspects of the nature of anxiety. The two share personal stories about anxiety, and Jay provides some psychoeducation and analogies regarding how anxiety highjacks our brains and prevents a lot of rational thinking. Jay and Carlie also talk about various coping mechanisms for dealing with racing thoughts and anxious physiology. Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

Jay and Carlie (The Positive Hairstylist) reflect on the previous month's challenge of Yoga. The two share about how they felt challenged by the goal to engage in yoga multiple times a week, but overall express a positive experience from participation. The new topic of a "Daily Reflection" is introduced and Jay puts Carlie on the spot to illustrate how it's done. Details about the practice are explained in the podcast, but Carlie has created templates for people to use if you choose to participate. Templates can be found on Carlie's website listed below.Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

On this episode Jay sits down with John Donovan. Through his work as a counselor and group facilitator, a bulk of which was spent facilitating conflict resolution workshops at Folsom State Prison, John has developed a very powerful approach to help individuals develop accountability in relationships, demystify patterns of behaviors, and learn to live life with intention in order to ultimately rediscover their authentic self. John's approach can often sound a bit confusing, and John will be the first to share that this is by design. Hint: it's about less thinking and more feeling. This is for sure a episode you'll want to listen to at least a couple of times, as the lessons begin to resonate more with each listen. John's Website:https://donovancounseling.comMini documentary about JohnJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy Website

Jay and Carlie (AKA: The Positive Hairstylist) move into the third week of yoga in this month's "30 Day Challenge," and reflect back on what they have taken away from their nw practice up to this point. Carlie shares that she has moved out of some of the initial desire to resist the practice, while Jay shares his frustrations. The two reflect on topics related to perfectionism, discipline and learning to try new things free from judgement and pressure. Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

Jay and Carlie (AKA: The Positive Hairstylist) reflect on their first week of yoga in this month's "30 Day Challenge." The two discuss their experience after engaging in 5 different online yoga videos. Both discuss frustrations with their current skill level, but express optimism for what might change in the weeks to come. Jay and Carlie also share about their interesting experience with Yoga Nidra. Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteMindfulness BlogFacebook GroupCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

Jay and Carlie (AKA: The Positive Hairstylist) recap on the progress from the first "30 Day Challenge" on mindfulness, and announce the topic for the month of April: YOGA! Jay and Carlie discuss what they learned and took away from the mindfulness challenge, and how that coincidentally timed up nicely with dealing with the COVID-19 global pandemic and the growing "stay at home" orders. The two also discuss what they hope to take away from the new yoga challenge and why the topic was picked. Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteMindfulness BlogFacebook GroupCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

Jay and Carlie (Aka: The Positive Hairstylist) head into the home stretch with week 4 of their first "30 Day Challenge," focusing on mindfulness meditation. The two discuss their progress after participating for 3 weeks, and discuss changes they've noticed along the way. The two also discuss implications and importance for developing a mindfulness practice during these worrisome times with the increasing spread of the novel coronavirus. Carlie reflects on making more progress with her ability to notice anxious thought and come back to the present, and Jay expands on mindfulness as a way of being and not simply "sitting down to meditate." Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteMindfulness BlogFacebook GroupCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

Jay and Carlie (Aka: The Positive Hairstylist) embark on week 3 of their first "30 Day Challenge," focusing on mindfulness meditation. The two discuss their progress at two weeks in, and discuss changes they've noticed along the way. The two also discuss implications and importance for developing a mindfulness practice during these worrisome times with the increasing spread of the novel coronavirus. Jay briefly touches on panic/anxiety, decision making while under stress, the effect of long term stress on the immune system, and increasing compassion - and how meditation can impact all of these. Loving Kindness MeditationDr. Robert Sapolsky - Intro to Human Behavioral BiologyJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteMindfulness BlogFacebook GroupCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

In this episode Jay sits down with Eric White. Eric is the host of another mental health podcast, titled “TheEWpodcast,” and the two met when Jay had the incredible experience of being a guest on Eric's show. Eric started his podcast after years of battling with severe depression, and after finding a therapist and other resources that benefitted him mentally, he decided to continue his quest for knowledge and share with the world. Eric and Jay explore the narrative Eric held onto that seemingly kept him locked in depression, and he reveals an aspect of this story that fueled a majority of his self-loathing and shame; something he explained he had only told a handful of people up to this point. Ultimately, though, through seeking professional help, finding the support of an accepting partner, and a chance psychedelic experience at a music festival, Eric can now say he is on the upside of his mental health journey… and continuing to seek growth daily. Eric is the definition of perseverance, he’s an all-around genuine and thoughtful human, and his story is an inspiration to push through whatever challenges life delivers. Eric's links:theEWpodcastInstagramJay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteFacebook Group

Each month Jay and Carlie will embark on a month long journey engaging in an activity that has been touted to have mental health benefits, or something that may strengthen and nurture relationships. Each Monday a brief "TOPIC IN FOCUS" episode will go up where the two share thoughts on their progress and share some inspiration to get your week off to a great start! Everyone who listens is welcome to join us on this journey and share your experiences on our social media, or the new "Coming Into Focus: 30 Day Challenge Community" Facebook group.Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteMindfulness BlogFacebook GroupCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

This is the introductory "30 Day Challenge!" Each month Jay and Carlie will embark on a month long journey engaging in an activity that has been touted to have mental health benefits, or something that may strengthen and nurture relationships. Each Monday a brief "TOPIC IN FOCUS" episode will go up where the two share thoughts on their progress and share some inspiration to get your week off to a great start! Everyone who listens is welcome to join us on this journey and share your experiences on our social media, or the new "Coming Into Focus: 30 Day Challenge Community" Facebook group.Jay's links:InstagramFocus Therapy WebsiteMindfulness BlogFacebook GroupCarlie's links:InstagramThe Positive Hairstylist

On this episode, Jay sits down with Michael Koch. Mike is currently drug and alcohol counselor, working at West Coast Recovery Centers in Carlsbad, CA, and he hosts a podcast titled Positive Connections Radio – a show intended to help break the stigma of seeking help related to mental health issues among first responders. Prior to all of this, Mike had worked in law enforcement for 19 years, spending the last 10 years as an undercover narcotics agent. After being prescribed Vicodin for an injury, Mike slowly found himself addicted to opioids, and eventually doing the unthinkable… more than a story about addiction or recovery, this episode is about resiliency and never giving up. Mike is a truly inspirational guy, and his story illustrates that no obstacle is too big to overcome. Mike's info:Positive Connections RadioPsychology Today profileWest Coast Recovery CentersJay Wick, LMFT:Focus TherapyInstagram

This episode is a continuation of a previous interview with Jay’s wonderful fiancé, Carlie Roe. In the last recording, the couple explored some major obstacles Carlie has overcome to be where she is today, and in this interview they pick up where they left off on Carlie’s evolution. Carlie discusses working through old narratives and limiting belief systems that caused a lot of self-doubt while entering into her new career, and she talks about some lessons related to delayed gratification. Jay and Carlie also get into the details of why Carlie made the choice to stop drinking alcohol, and why she still hasn’t had a sip in over 3 years. There’s even some relationship and sex talk in this one. All the bases are covered – no pun intended. Carlie's Instagram: @carlieroeartistryCarlie's Blog: The Positive HairstylistInstagram: @comingintofocuswww.comingintofocus.orgTwitter: Coming_To_Focus

On this episode Jay chats with longtime friend Amir Karkouti. Amir is a master certified, transformative coach who has spent over 10 years as an advisor and mentor to fortune 500 CEO’s, military men and women, and anyone who is looking to get more out of themselves and their lives. Amir is also an author of several books, and the owner of a chain of restaurants called Surf Brother’s Teriyaki. Jay and Amir get into a conversation about Amir’s experience coming to the United States from Iran at a very young age, and how those early experiences had an impact on the work he does today. Amir also candidly discusses his reaction to a commonly known medication which led to bouts of severe fatigue, depression and ultimately thoughts of suicide. Through all of this, Amir discusses the philosophy that is at the center of his work with others, and how his own understanding of these principals helped him manage his own distress.Amir Karkouti:https://www.amirkarkouti.comAmir's books on AmazonOther resources:Mindfulness Meditation BlogNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text LineIf you love this podcast, please drop a review on whatever platform you listen on! And, stay up to date with the latest episodes by following "Coming Into Focus" on Instagram.www.comingintofocus.org

On today’s episode I chat with my amazingly talented finace, Carlie Roe. Carlie is without a doubt one of the most loving and kind hearted people I have ever known, which is probably what really roped me in as we initially started dating…although, I can't lie she's a total babe, too! We get into a pretty candid story of how we met and the funny story of our first date. Carlie also opens up about not graduating high school, the shame that hung over her related to that, and how she finally made some big life changes to push through in order to get her GED. This episode will for sure tug at your heart strings a little bit, but will also 100% motivate you to get out there and go after what you want. It was so much fun recording with each other, that we decided she should probably be a regular guest. For now, I really hope you all enjoy part 1 of Carlie’s awesome story. Carlie's Instagram: @carlieroeartistryCarlie's Blog: The Positive HairstylistInstagram: @comingintofocuswww.comingintofocus.orgTwitter: Coming_To_Focus

Jay sits down with entrepreneur and ex Navy Seal Officer, Jeff Everage. Jeff is a certified Wim Hof Method instructor, and Jay actually got to attend one of his classes and get in the ice bath with everyone. Jay and Jeff discuss aspects of the breath work and cold exposure, involved in the method – and they explore the underlying theme of connection that seems to be at the center of all of the work Jeff does. One such example is the Hold Me Tight couples workshops Jeff runs with his significant other, and Jay's colleague Cristina Trette, LMFT. About two-thirds of the way through Jeff gets very vulnerable and shares about a major childhood trauma he experienced. It really goes to show, whatever your outward impressions of someone are, you never truly know what hardships they have faced in their lives.Jeff's Website: https://www.jeffeverage.com/Wim Hof Vice Documentarywww.comingintofocus.orgInstagram: @comingintofocus

In this episode, Jay shares about his first year in recovery. This episode can be seen as a stand alone episode that is intended to give anyone in their first year an idea of what to expect, and how to approach the journey ahead. The information may also be useful for family members with a loved one struggling with addiction. Jay touches on underlying issues that led to his personal struggle, dealing with shame, spirituality, and how he developed coping skills while not being able to afford outpatient treatment or therapy. Jay's recovery journey is unique to him, but many aspects about it are in line with what many may experience. Follow on instagram: @comingintofocusWebsite: www.comingintofocus.org

This is the FIRST episode of the "Coming Into Focus" podcast! "Coming Into Focus" is a mental health podcast, hosted by Jay Wick, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of Focus Therapy in Encinitas, CA. On this episode Jay is joined by guest co-host, Carlie Roe, who helps interview Jay and tell the story of how he became a therapist. Jay shares his past struggles with addiction, how he got into recovery, how the recovery process has changed for him, and some thoughts on 12-step programs. Jay and Carlie discuss some of the challenges and sacrifices that come with making huge life changes, and they get into a discussion about faith and the dreaded "higher power" concept in Alcoholics Anonymous. Jay also explains the overall purpose and mission for creating this podcast.Website:www.comingintofocus.org