NFCC's Guide Through the Seasons of Mental Wellness

Traveling can be challenging for children and adults on the spectrum. 87% of parents with autistic children, do not currently take family vacations. Changes in routine, crowds, new sights and sounds can make experiences difficult for them and their families. We hope this episode, with Dawn Barclay, author of Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse, will encourage more travel opportunities for you and your family.  About our Guest http://www.dawnbarclayink.com/ (Dawn Barclay) is an award-winning author who has spent a career working in different aspects of the travel industry. After spending several years in sales and marketing, she branched out into travel trade reporting with senior or contributing editor positions at Travel Agent Magazine, Travel Life, Travel Market Report, and most recently, Insider Travel Report. She is a mother of two and resides in New York's scenic Hudson Valley. Resources mentioned: Traveling Different (where to find Dawn's book) http://www.dawnbarclayink.com/order.html (http://www.dawnbarclayink.com/order.html) Carol Gray Social Stories https://carolgraysocialstories.com/ (https://carolgraysocialstories.com/) Magical Storybook Travels http://www.magicalstorybooktravels.com/ (http://www.magicalstorybooktravels.com/) Beaches Autism Friendly Resorts https://www.beaches.com/all-inclusive/autism-friendly/ (https://www.beaches.com/all-inclusive/autism-friendly/) Dr. Tony Atwood, Autism Spectrum Disorder Expert https://tonyattwood.com.au/ (https://tonyattwood.com.au/) A special thanks to our team https://finnegancounseling.org/counselors/heather-timmis/ (Heather Timmis), Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters athttps://3wirecreative.com/ ( 3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis

There are few relationships in our lives that require a greater level of intimacy and vulnerability than the doctor-patient relationship. As a patient, you are giving another person permission to assess your entire body inside and out, often before developing a personal connection to them. For some, disclosing our habits and care practices can be a scary endeavor that leads to avoiding doctors visits altogether. Finding a right fit for you or a family member involves more than just an internet search, you have consider many relationship dynamics including finding someone who is trustworthy and makes you feel comfortable. Today we're going to talk about how to make the process of finding a great dynamic between you and your physician that will create a lasting and beneficial connections. Here to help us explore this topic is one of my absolute favorite physicians of all time, Dr. Lisa White-Lapeze. About our guest Dr. White-Lapeze received her degree at the University of Texas in 2003. She then went on to earn her DO in 2008 at the University of North Texas Health Science Center and completed her residency in pediatrics at The Children's Medical Center UT Southwestern, after which she worked in private practice from 2011 to 2013 at Texas Children's Pediatrics. After becoming close to a fellow pediatrician who she soon learned grew up down the street from her, Dr. White-Lapeze and her former childhood neighbor Dr. Dehlavi-Ali opened their own practice in their home town of Katy, TX. https://www.sproutpedi.com/ (Sprout Pediatrics) has been a thriving and sought after practice in the Katy area for several years. Resources https://dukepersonalizedhealth.org/2019/03/the-importance-of-physician-patient-relationships-communication-and-trust-in-health-care/ (The importance of the doctor-patient relationship article) https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2020/01/stanford-researchers-recommend-5-practices-to-improve-doctor-pat.html (How to improve the doctor-patient relationship article) https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dropping-out-of-medical-school-led-dr-dan-siegel-to-this-realization_n_5b4f66cbe4b0890b5cce0e1c (Dan Siegel Clip on The Value of Doctors Expressing Empathy) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6315775-mindsight (Dan Siegel's Mindsight Book) A special thanks to our team Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters athttps://3wirecreative.com/ ( 3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis

According to Gallup, the workforce has lost 2 million female employees over the course of the pandemic. While all people who work and take care of dependent family members at home, could use added support in the workplace, based on recent polls, working moms seem to be taking the brunt of the load during this shift.  This has caused many women to leave their jobs to devote more time to their roles as caretakers. Research also shows that mother's in are valuable because they bring skills in leadership and office dynamics that better the work environment. As the trend of caretakers, most notably, mothers, leaving the workforce has been noticed, many are stepping up to help employers develop skills to improve working conditions to keep these valuable employees.  In our last episode, we explored employer and employee relationships and realized that this topic is so big it needed two parts! If you haven't listened to episode 8 with NFCC's Executive Director, Mary Elizabeth Hand, be sure to listen to that one too, as we'll build upon that conversation and discuss more ways to improve interoffice dynamics and better support our most stretched employees with today's guest, Claire Holmes.  About our guest https://www.mamacollaborative.com/about (Claire Holmes) is the founder of https://www.mamacollaborative.com/ (Mama Collaborative), which helps working moms learn how to set themselves up for success through digital courses, resources, tools and an encouraging online community. After graduating from the University of Georgia, Claire spent over a decade as a marketing consultant, project manager and training developer in the consulting, legal, retail and non-profit industries. Leveraging that and her personal experience as a full-time working mom of three, Claire's goal is to help moms move away from stress, overwhelm and anxiety to find satisfaction and purpose in life.  Resources https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2021/08/23/15-ways-companies-can-better-support-working-parents/?sh=2e7d1908759e (How Companies Can Support Working Parents- Forbes Article) https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/new-study-reveals-how-best-workplaces-are-keeping-their-working-parents-from-joining-the-great-resignation (Companies that are doing it right article) https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/behavioral-competencies/global-and-cultural-effectiveness/pages/employers-can-benefit-from-working-mothers-leadership-skills-.aspx (Article on the Value of Working Mothers as Leaders) https://www.cupahr.org/blog/3-ways-hr-can-help-support-and-retain-working-mothers/ (HR Best practices for working parents) A special thanks to our team Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters athttps://3wirecreative.com/ ( 3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis

Research has shown inter-office relationships with managers impacts self-confidence, self efficacy, and overall mental and physical health. Yet, many in management positions have little to no focused skills or incentive to practice building positive work dynamics. So, how do we help teams, no matter the size, move forward towards collaboration? We'll talk about how to develop the necessary skills needed to create an environment that supports everyone's needs and strengths to create a stronger, more successful work environment in today's episode with Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's Executive Director, Mary Elizabeth Hand. About our Guest Mary Elizabeth Hand has served as NFCC's Executive Director since 2015. In addition to managing the daily operations of the counseling center, she also oversees the event planning, grant writing, annual fund and donor relations. Before coming on board at NFCC as the Director of Development, she was a Child Life Specialist at Texas Children's Hospital for five years. As a childhood friend of Nick Finnegan, Mary Elizabeth's passion for NFCC's mission grows every year, as she leads efforts to expand the counseling center's reach in the community. Her desire to make high quality counseling accessible and affordable, while honoring Nick, inspires her work at the counseling center every day.  Mary Elizabeth also makes work life balance a priority for her staff and herself. At home, she and her husband manage two full time careers, two young kids and two yellow labs! Resources https://www.ted.com/series/worklife_with_adam_grant (A Great Podcast All About Work)   https://hbr.org/2005/03/what-great-managers-do (On Being a Better Manager) https://www.happinesslab.fm/2022-new-year-mini-season/burnout-and-how-to-avoid-it (Podcast Episode on Understanding Burnout) https://www.businessinsider.com/what-the-best-employees-do-every-day-2016-9 (On Being a Better Employee) Brene Brown Podcast Episodes on Management: https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-on-armored-versus-daring-leadership-part-1-of-2/ (https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-on-armored-versus-daring-leadership-part-1-of-2/) https://brenebrown.com/collections/a-courageous-approach-to-feedback/ (https://brenebrown.com/collections/a-courageous-approach-to-feedback/) A special thanks to our team Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters athttps://3wirecreative.com/ ( 3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis

In today's school system, the demands on parents and teachers are taxing and sometimes unforgiving. While there are more care takers involved in the village that helps rear a child, parents and teachers have the majority of the load, creating a very important partnership. Though they have similar goals, they often struggle to communicate and get on the same page. What can we do to support each other in feeling seen for the work each care taker has to bring out the best in our children and adolescents? To help us explore this topic, I have Dr. Caroline Baizan. About our Guest Caroline Baizan is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in children and young adults. She has a master's degree in clinical psychology, a doctoral degree in counseling, and was recently re-certified as a licensed specialist in school psychology at Houston Baptist University. Dr. Baizan's is passionate about supporting an individual's journey to envision and achieve the best version of themselves. Over the last 15 years, she has worked with a diverse array of clients including individuals with autism, learning disabilities, mood, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as victims of trauma. Dr. Baizan has worked in non-profit clinics, hospitals, therapeutic education institutions, and public schools. Resources https://earlylearningnetwork.unl.edu/2018/08/29/parent-teacher-relationships/ (Parent-Teacher Relationships in the Research) https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/new-from-nea/getting-derailed-parent-teacher-relationships-back-track (Tools for Navigating Issues) https://tea.texas.gov/academics/special-student-populations/special-education/parent-and-family-resources (Texas Education Association Resources) https://tiltparenting.com/ (Community for Navigating Special Needs in the School System) A special thanks to our team Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters athttps://3wirecreative.com/ ( 3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening! www.finnegancounseling.org

While there are many myths around the harm of divorce and stepfamilies disrupting a child's development, research has actually shown that a system of effective, communicative relationships can actually aid children in learning to navigate life in healthy ways. Communication and respect are key to this success.  So, how do we create these systems and ways of functioning? How do we manage existing hurts and fears? Here to discuss this and much more is Donyé Smith, M.Ed., LPC Associate. About our Guest Donyé Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Baptist University and Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. Donyé has worked in residential, non-profit and private practice settings treating depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder and parenting. She works with adolescents and adults using multiple modalities to develop an individualized approach for clients and strives to provide a safe, non judgmental environment to explore their concerns and help them lead meaningful lives. A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters athttps://3wirecreative.com/ ( 3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening! www.finnegancounseling.org

How parents respond to their child lets them know how to navigate their surroundings and the people in them, safely. Parents are often on the receiving end of “expert advice”, and judgment, that often lends itself to confusion, stress, and anxiety. However, regardless of parenting choices, the research is clear, your relationship with your children is the foundation of everything. So, how can be authentic in our roles as parents? What makes and breaks these different types of relationships? And, how do we create a feeling of safety, acceptance, and growth in our children? Tune into this episode as we dive into these questions and more. About our guest: Danielle Coleman is a Certified Child Life Specialist at the https://www.wondersandworries.org/ (Wonders & Worries Houston) office. She has over 7 years of experience supporting children and families at Wonders & Worries and Texas Children's Hospital, in the Outpatient Hematology Oncology Clinic. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas State University. Danielle and her husband have two beautiful children and their family can often be found enjoying the outdoors at the park or riding bikes.  Resources https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10353369-the-whole-brain-child (The Whole-Brain Child Book) https://www.audible.com/pd/Episode-18-Building-Lifelong-Healthy-Relationships-With-Your-Kids-Podcast/B09F4P1XP9 (Parent-Child) https://www.audible.com/pd/Episode-18-Building-Lifelong-Healthy-Relationships-With-Your-Kids-Podcast/B09F4P1XP9 (Relationships Podcast Episode) https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_attachment_parenting_is_not_the_same_as_secure_attachment (Attachment Theory in Parenting Article) https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_cultivate_a_secure_attachment_with_your_child (Secure) https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_cultivate_a_secure_attachment_with_your_child (Attachment Article) https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/29993569-raising-a-secure-child (Raising A Secure Child Book) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25343.Parenting_From_the_Inside_Out (Parenting from the Inside Out Book) A special thanks to our team Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at https://3wirecreative.com/ (3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening! http://finnegancounseling.org (finnegancounseling.org)

Relationships are often quick to become more work and less romance in modern society. In this episode, we explore both the theories and experience of couples therapy, as well as, general relationship struggles and tools for navigating them. About our guest https://heightscouplestherapy.com/about/ (Dr. Laura Spiller) is a clinical psychologist who owns https://heightscouplestherapy.com/ (Heights Couples Therapy) and co-owns https://wellness-collaborative.com/ (Wellness Collaborative) in Houston, TX. She specializes in helping individuals and couples strengthen their relationships and connect deeper to those they care about. After studying at the University of Houston and the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, she earned her PhD in Psychology and went on to train other graduate students as a professor for 10 years before shifting to her private practice, full time. Dr. Spiller is also a certified practitioner and trainer for Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy; an attachment based and well researched model of therapy. As a couples therapist, she is inspired to guide couples to make their relationships a safe haven which they can navigate any storm. This comes from both her work and personal experience after walking beside her late husband during a 5 year battle with a rare stomach cancer. Dr. Spiller hopes to pass on the gift of making the most of the time couples have together to everyone she works with. Resources https://iceeft.com/ (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) https://www.gottman.com/ (Gottman Relationship Institute) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2153780.Hold_Me_Tight (EFT Book for Couples) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7150543-born-for-love (Attachment and Empathy Book) A special thanks to our team Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at https://3wirecreative.com/ (3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening!

Friendships are highly valued in society and research has found that in youth, the human brain's learning is almost solely done through social connection and face to face interaction, from infancy through early childhood. Developing peer relationships can be both fun and difficult, yet ultimately rewarding for all. They challenge us to be vulnerable, face painful rejection, and teach us the importance of discerning what we value, in order to choose healthy, successful peers. Many grapple with the idea of leaning on another person yet, it's important that we learn it's possible to experience trusting relationships early on. Having solid peer support systems feeds our feelings of self-worth and self-efficacy, and allows us to move through the world with a sense of safety. Many of us however, have real struggles with developing these long-term connections. Here to discuss why friendship is so important to overall wellness, how to take risks and choose healthy friendships, and how to help our children learn to do the same, is licensed professional counselor, McKenzie Palmer. About our Guest https://finnegancounseling.org/counselors/mckenzie-palmer/ (McKenzie Palmer) graduated from Louisiana State University with a bachelor's of science in Psychology. Later, she obtained her master's degree in professional counseling from the University of Houston. McKenzie primarily works with children and adolescents, ages 3-18, by using a collaborative approach and lots of play! McKenzie enjoys working with families to aid them in recognizing their own strengths as well as identifying areas of growth to promote positive change. McKenzie's counseling experience includes helping clients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, divorce, parenting challenges and adoption-related concerns, among other specialties. She incorporates play therapy, art therapy and age-appropriate cognitive behavioral therapy throughout sessions to engage clients and best guide them to success. Additional Resources: https://www.peacefulparent.com/secure-attachment-is-connected-fosters-social-skills-emotional-intelligence-and-resilience-in-children/ (Understanding Attachment) https://ggie.berkeley.edu/school-relationships/positive-peer-relationships/#tab__1 (Positive Peer Relationships) https://www.verywellmind.com/social-support-for-psychological-health-4119970 (The Value of Social Support) A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire Creative Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening! To learn more about what we do at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center, visit our website at: https://finnegancounseling.org/ (https://finnegancounseling.org/)

Relationships are the cornerstone of human health. Research shows that when we experience consistent - quality relationships with others, we live longer, feel better and become more resilient to stress. However, when we don't have access to these types of relationships and are unable to create new ones, the risks to our mental and physical health change astronomically. In fact, many studies have now confirmed that loss of social support and chronic loneliness are more disastrous to our health than smoking, obesity, or other measures of health risk. Putting these facts in the modern context of a global pandemic can be quite alarming. Never before have people experienced this level of isolation. Even as we come back together, many struggle to create new social connections due to the increased anxiety and decreased social skills created by this period of separation. So, what do we do? How do we help ourselves, our children, and our parents navigate social situations during periods of separation? Here to help us explore this timely conversation is NFCC's Clinical Director, Heather Timmis. About our Guest https://finnegancounseling.org/counselors/heather-timmis/ (Heather Timmis) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor who works with families, couples and individuals ages 3 years and up. Heather holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Austin as well as a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. In addition to overseeing the clinical team at NFCC, she also supervises associate level counselors who are pursuing their license. Heather has many years of experience helping clients work through challenges such as trauma and anxiety with traditional talk therapy, play therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, also known as EMDR. She served as NFCC's Lead Clinician before stepping into the role of Clinical Director in October of 2021. Episode Resources: 1. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/05/ce-corner-isolation (The Impact of Social Isolation) 2. https://publichealth.tulane.edu/blog/effects-of-social-isolation-on-mental-health/ (Isolation and Mental Health) 3. https://www.rush.edu/news/combating-effects-social-isolation (Tools for Addressing Isolation) 4. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00768/full (Loneliness and Empathy) A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at https://3wirecreative.com/ (3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening! Nick Finnegan Counseling Center https://finnegancounseling.org/ (finnegancounseling.org)

Choosing to divulge your most vulnerable parts to a complete stranger takes a lot of courage. It also takes a lot of willingness to be vulnerable with ourselves and be willing to hear and do hard things. It makes sense that in situation such as this, forming a trusting, safe connection with a therapist is paramount. In fact, research has proven time and time again that it is the MOST important factor in therapeutic success. While this season we focus on relationship dynamics in all forms, we'll start with a truly unique relationship - the therapeutic relationship, or the therapeutic alliance as it is more professionally known. So, how do we find the right therapist? And, how do we make sure we feel safe and respected in this sensitive dynamic? Here to discuss this and more is Audrey Omenson, MA, LPC-S. About our guest: Audrey Omenson has worked as a licensed professional counselor in the Houston area since 2009. Currently she see clients in her private practice where her work is focused on supporting adults and teens ages 16 and up, who are looking to process major life transitions, address trauma, deal with burnout and boundary setting, increase self-awareness, and improve self-care practices. Audrey was also part of the NFCC team for 7 years, serving as a counselor and clinical director before stepping down to serve as a consultant in October of 2021. In addition to her several years of experience as a counselor, Audrey has also been on the client side of things and participated in therapy for herself at various points in her life. https://www.audreyomenson.com/about (Learn more about Audrey by visiting her website): https://www.audreyomenson.com/ A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Jacel Dickson, Producer and Editor Theme music written and performed by Jim Roman Audio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at https://3wirecreative.com/ (3 Wire Creative) Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis Thanks for listening!

Crises of faith can happen in response to grief and loss, but they can also often be the result of discrepancy between ones personal life and the doctrines of their faith. The way a spiritual community responds to and support members largely determines whether the faith community becomes a source of support and mental resilience or shame and mental trauma. In fact an emerging field in psychotherapy is Religious Trauma. Here to help us navigate this sometimes scary world of challenging faith communities, finding your own spiritual path, or improving your faith community from within is NFCC's Clinical Director, Audrey Omenson, MA, LPC-S. About Audrey: Audrey is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and the Clinical Director at the Nick Finnegan Counseling Center (NFCC). She oversees all of the clinical work done at NFCC, including the training and supervision of graduate practicum counselors and LPC-Associate counselors. She joined NFCC in 2014 but has worked with children, adolescents, adults and families in the mental health field since 2009. Her counseling experience includes work in outpatient clinics and schools, supporting clients challenged by anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, Autism spectrum disorders, and other neurological differences. She also works with clients who have experienced religious/spiritual trauma. In addition to serving as NFCC's, clinical director, Audrey operates her very own private practice focusing on religious trauma as well as major life transitions with adults and teens. Audrey also works as an artist creating beautiful canvas pieces, is a certified yoga instructor, and enjoys time with her family, adorable niece, and sweet rescue dog, Sedona. Resources: https://www.audreyomenson.com/about (Audrey's Private Practice) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/964147.Leaving_the_Fold (Leaving the Fold) By Marlene Winell https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26534230-sacred-wounds (Sacred Wounds: A Path to Healing from Spiritual Trauma) By Teresa B. Pasquale https://mindshiftpodcast.co.uk/2020/11/06/rebuilding-a-sense-of-self-coping-with-religious-trauma-syndrome-with-andrew-jasko/ (Rebuilding A Sense of Self: Coping with Religious Trauma Syndrome) Podcast Episode from ‘Mindshift Podcast' https://www.netgrace.org/ (For Religious Institutions Looking to be Preventative of Trauma) Recommended Instagram Accounts: @reclamationcollective @drlauraandersen A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

When we choose a partner to go through life with it's not often that we think about what it would be like to lose them. Or if we do, we don't spend much time considering it because it's so difficult to think about. Any type of loss is hard, but when we lose the one other person we rely on to move through life with, it can be especially painful and isolating. Who will fill the roles they use to fill? Who do we turn to for support and how can we support other affected family members? There are a lot of 'well meaning' sayings around grief that can be even more problematic around the loss of our partner. Helping us learn different ways to navigate the long term impact of partner loss is NFCC's very own clinician, Janet Crow, MA, LPC. About Janet: Janet graduated from Arizona State University and subsequently worked in in the oil industry as an entrepreneur for over three decades. After becoming a widow in 2002, she pursued a Masters in Counseling – graduating from Houston Graduate School of Theology in 2007. Janet's 12 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor, includes group and individual therapy sessions with adolescents, adults and couples. She enjoys working with families to find their ‘new norm' when faced with difficult circumstances as well as parents of teens who are navigating life changes. She is diligent in working with women dealing with depression as well as couples who's relationship needs a tune-up. Resources: Alan Wolfelt's Organization: https://www.centerforloss.com/ (Center for Loss and Life Transition) A Grief Organization: https://www.griefrecoverymethod.com/ (Grief Recovery Method) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/768975.Living_in_the_Shadow_of_the_Ghosts_of_Grief (Living in the Shadows of the Ghosts of Grief: Step into the Light) By Alan Wolfelt https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1126939.When_Your_Friend_Is_Grieving (When Your Friend is Grieving) By Paula D'Arcy https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/421848.The_Grief_Recovery_Handbook (The Grief Recovery Handbook) By John W. James and Russell Friedman https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/877757.When_Children_Grieve (When Children Grieve: For Adults to Help Children Deal with Death, Divorce, Pet Loss, Moving, and Other Losses) By John W. James, Russell Friedman, and Leslie Matthews A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

Becoming a caregiver to a loved one who can no longer care for themselves is HARD. It is hard on resources, relationships, and our own well being. As a family caregiver, we need to grieve what was, plan for what could be, and communicate with all the support members we can. AND, that is only the start of what this honorable and difficult role entails. Joining us to navigate this difficult and often stressful conversation is Tracey Brown of Amazing Place Houston. About Tracey: Tracey Brown has served as Executive Director of Amazing Place, a faith based non-profit organization focusing on empowering lives disrupted by dementia for the past fifteen years. During her tenure she has led the organization through a $7 million campaign, Building for Generations, which enabled the organization to build their state of the art Day Program specifically designed for adults with mild to moderate dementia; engineered a name change from The Seniors Place to Amazing Place; and encouraged the organization's staff to expand programs and services for those with dementia, their caregiving families and the community resulting in the development of their Connections Program. Amazing Place is in the midst of their second campaign – the $15 million Amazing Together Campaign, which will allow the organization to expand to a second location in the West Houston/Katy area.   Tracey grew up in Chicago and Houston and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. Sixteen years ago, she and her husband, Frank, returned to Houston. She joined Amazing Place after a career in advertising and publishing and many years in non-profit volunteer leadership. Her passion for supporting adults with dementia and their families comes from her own family experience – her maternal grandmother suffered for many years with the disease and she watched her highly successful and energetic grandfather endure tremendous stress as her primary caregiver, eventually suffering a fatal heart attack. She and Frank have five children, aged 25 to 41, in their blended family. Six years ago, Tracey lost her father and her mother (now 90) moved into their home, just as her youngest son finished his freshman year in college and returned home for the summer. Four years ago, her mother was diagnosed with dementia and multiple myeloma. As a family they are cherishing each day and learning the precious value and wonderful blessings of intergenerational living. Resources:...

Wouldn't it be nice if there was just ONE Golden, Magical Parenting Manual to get us from birth to adulthood when raising out kids? Parents are bombarded with thousands of opinions and frameworks that feel impossible to implement, while dodging the mines, barbed wire, and explosions of our parenting world. Join us with guest, Amanda Armbruster of Take A Break Tots, as we explore the parenting experience in the battlefield and how we can build our toolkit to survive, thrive, and raise kids who flourish. About Amanda: For the last decade, Amanda has worked with young children and their families as a teacher, graduate student, Licensed Professional Counselor, and now in her own home as a mom. Amanda started Take a Break Tots to bring information about child development, behavior, discipline, and social-emotional intervention from the clinical world to the average household and classroom. She strives to help caregivers support the social and emotional development of the young children in their lives. Amanda provides lots of free information and personal parenting stories on her Instagram page and Blog. Through consultations Amanda provides personalized behavior and discipline plans that meet the needs of the whole family. Resources: https://www.takeabreaktots.com/ (Take A Break Tots) (also, find her on Facebook and Instagram) Carol Dweck's https://www.ted.com/talks/carol_dweck_the_power_of_believing_that_you_can_improve?language=en (TED talk) Carol Dweck's https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40745.Mindset (Mindset Book) https://consciousdiscipline.com/ (Dr. Becky Bailey: Conscious Discipline) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25343.Parenting_From_the_Inside_Out (Parenting from the Inside Out) By Dan Siegel https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10353369-the-whole-brain-child (The Whole-Brain Child) By Dan Siegel Meditation Guides: https://www.headspace.com/ (Headspace), https://www.calm.com/ (Calm), Tara Brach's https://www.tarabrach.com/guided-meditations/ (Meditations) https://zerotofive.net/ (Zero to Five): An early development guide A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

Self-esteem is kind of a holy grail of sorts - one that we spend a lifetime in search of. BUT what is this mystical, internal force, really? And how do we develop it, share it, and parent it? To help us with this very important conversation, we had fun talking to Diane Vines, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S. There's more about Diane below, but know that it's never too late to develop self-esteem. About Diane Vines: Diane Vines serves as the Program Coordinator for The Neurosequential Network's NMT Individual and Site Certification programs. Ms. Vines is also a long-time ChildTrauma Academy Fellow and a clinician in private practice. She received her Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Houston - Clear Lake in 1999. Ms. Vines is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor and a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in the state of Texas and is also a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor.  Ms. Vines provides individual and family therapy as well as clinical supervision. She has worked, trained, and specialized in the areas of child sexual abuse, incest, and childhood trauma since 1998, and she frequently provides community trainings and case consultations. Ms. Vines has formerly worked at the Houston Child Advocacy Center (Children's Assessment Center). She has also served on Houston Association for Marriage and Family (HAMFT) board and the Kids & Youth Protecting Other Kids (KYPOK) board. Resources: https://www.neurosequential.com/ (NMT) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34962308-the-yes-brain (The Yes Brain) (Parenting Book) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17707532-brainstorm (Brainstorm) (Parenting Teens) https://positivepsychology.com/self-esteem-tools-activities/ (Self-Esteem Tools) https://www.empoweringparents.com/article/why-you-should-let-your-child-fail-the-benefits-of-natural-consequences/ (Let Your Children Fail) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6615888/ (The Coddling of Black Youth) A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

1 in 8 couples experience an infertility journey. A journey that involves physical, emotional and financial stress, while straining relationships. In this episode, we discuss the mental toll, heartbreak, grief, and thankfully, hope - with FabFertility's very own, Blair Nelson. About Blair Nelson:  Blair Nelson is an infertility warrior who began her journey in 2018 after being told IVF was the only way to grow her family due to an inherited genetic factor her husband, Will, was born with. After their second embryo transfer from their first round of IVF treatment, Blair suffered a heartbreaking miscarriage that redefined her life. Ever since then, she has made it her mission to bring facts, tips, inspiration and most importantly a voice to the topic of infertility. She found refuge in her difficult times online among women who have had similar experiences, and she wants to return the favor. Her Instagram account, Fab Fertility, has grown into a brand, podcast and blog. She also co-founded Fertility Rally in 2020, an event and membership platform to support and educate anyone building their modern family. After five rounds of IVF, countless shots and procedures, Blair and Will are expecting their rainbow baby girl in May of 2021. Related Resources:  https://fabfertility.com/ (FabFertility) https://fertilityrally.com/ (Fertility Rally) https://cofertility.com/ (CoFertility) https://resolve.org/ (The National Infertility Association) A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

Dating can be hard, messy, and painful but it can also be fun, enlightening, and energizing. One of the keys to success is knowing yourself and what you hope to offer to a partnership as well as what you expect to receive in return. So, how do we know if we are ready to commit to adding another person's feeling to our list of daily responsibilities? How can we thoughtfully end a relationship that isn't working? Tune in to hear Tracy Lehman and April Henderson cover all of this and more! About April Henderson: April Henderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Her specialties include working with adult women, children, and teens. April's counseling approach is client-centered and draws from attachment/developmental theories, family systems, and trauma research to best meet the needs of her clients. She is passionate about working with women and teens who want support in developing healthy relationships as well as with clients who have experienced trauma. With each client April strives to provide a safe, comfortable environment in which clients can feel heard and can heal. April is an EMDR Trained therapist and is also a PREPARE/ENRICH certified engaged couples counselor. Related Resources:  https://www.attachedthebook.com/wordpress/ (Attached) By Amir Levine and Rachel Heller https://www.gottman.com/product/the-seven-principles-for-making-marriage-work/ (The 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work) By The Gottmans https://garythomas.com/books/sacred-marriage/ (Sacred Marriage) By Gary Thomas https://drsuejohnson.com/books/ (Hold Me Tight) By Sue Johnson A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

For many parents, the teen years are filled with fears and challenges, especially as they approach leaving the nest and going off on their own. Will they be safe? Will they know what to do? Are they ready? If you have experienced any of these questions or similar ones, this episode is for you! Teandra Gordon, PhD, LMFT-Supervisor, and Director of School Based Therapy at Legacy Community Health, joins Tracy to talk about how parents can prepare themselves and their teens for the next stages of life, while building trust and teaching them to trust their instincts and be ready to venture out into the world. About Teandra Gordon: Dr. Gordon is Vice President of School Based Health at Legacy Community Health in Houston, TX. Legacy clinics are committed to drive healthy change in communities across Houston by providing primary care and behavioral health services to students and families on school campuses. Dr. Gordon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with a passion for seeing children succeed and promoting healthy families. She testified in front of the state Legislature twice as a champion for school-based health care, and during her tenure as a leader in school based health, Legacy increased its partnerships from 7 clinics to 27 clinics across Houston. Dr. Gordon has publications in several scholarly journals and her research has been presented at national conferences. She is also a wife, mother of five, and author of the parenting education book, https://purposefilledparenting.com/book (Purpose Filled Parenting.)  Here are some resources mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/kHZzhKyBW-I (Dan Siegel's Google Talk)  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17707532-brainstorm (Dan Siegel's Book for Understanding Teens)  https://www.ted.com/talks/carol_dweck_the_power_of_believing_that_you_can_improve?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare (Carol Dwecks TED Talk) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40745.Mindset (Carol Dwecks Book on Growth Mindset) A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!

We've all heard that question, “Who am I outside of this relationship/marriage”. Singleism, the term for people living life outside of a committed, romantic relationship, is an emerging area of focus on a state of living that many people experience at some point in life. There is so much wonderful momentum behind the concept of living life while single and destigmatizing past views of what “living single” means in order to open us all up to the possibilities of our very own selves! Helping us explore the beauty and challenges of single hood at any age is NFCC's Lead Clinician, Heather Timmis, MA, LMFT-S. About Heather Timmis: Heather Timmis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) who works with families, couples and individuals ages 3 years and up. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Austin as well as a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Heather has experience helping clients work through challenges related but not limited to sexual abuse, trauma, suicidal thoughts/actions and anxiety. She believes in a flexible, collaborative approach where she and her client work as a team to determine the best fit for the client's needs. In addition to her amazing clinical work, Heather is obsessed with all things pop culture and experienced her fair share of dating apps before she finally met her fiancé.  Here are some resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.shanisilver.com/podcast (A Single Serving Podcast) http://www.belladepaulo.com/ (Bella DePaulo's Books and Info) https://belladepaulo.medium.com/resources-for-single-people-who-are-not-whining-about-being-single-3f9df6e67560 (Additional Resources)  A special thanks to our team: Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive Producer Os Galindo, Senior Producer & Engineer Yue Nakayama, Audio Engineer Jacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic Designer Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omenson with music by Jim Roman Thanks for listening!