Normalize The Conversation

In this episode, Lily Thrope breaks down eating disorders, challenging misconceptions about who they affect and what recovery truly looks like—especially when it means embracing a larger body. She also explores how societal conversations have shifted from body positivity to self-love being equated with weight loss. Website: https://thropetherapy.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/thropetherapylcsw

In this episode, Matt Worthington joins Francesca Reicherter to share how creative expression can transform lived experience into art and offers powerful advice for parents of neurodivergent children, helping them foster self-worth beyond society's perceptions.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prettycoolstrangers/Website: https://prettycoolstrangers.com/

In this episode, Michaela Pearson joins Francesca Reicherter to open up about eating-disordered behaviors, the pursuit of external validation, and her journey with bariatric surgery. Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michlivinlife/Get Connected: https://linktr.ee/michlivinlife

In this episode, Ed Harrold reveals the power of breathwork in managing anxiety and becoming more present in your life. He shares how breathing techniques can transform your physiological and mental state, helping you build a deeper connection with yourself—one breath at a time.Website: https://www.edharrold.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ed_harrold

In this episode, Suzanne Jabour and I talk about our experiences with grief, exploring the impactful ways our community showed up. Suzanne teaches us how to distinguish what helps vs what doesn't.guest: Suzanne Jabour, Grief Educatorhttps://www.suzannejabour.com/

In this episode, Andromeda Peters dives into trauma—how it manifests, the unexpected ways it finds us, and how somatic work and mindfulness can help reduce symptoms. She shares practical ways to stay present, set boundaries, and show up for yourself in healing.Website: https://www.andromedapeters.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andromedapeters

In this episode, Halie Rose Bloom joined me to talk about the “Fake It Till You Make It” mindset. Explore how we can unlearn the idea of putting on a fake smile and pretending to be the perfect image society wants us to be. Instead, embrace vulnerability and go through experiences authentically with your friends. Don't fake it; talk about it. guest: Halie Rose Bloom, LMSWConnect Online: Halie Rose Bloom, LMSW (@therapywithhalierose) • Instagram photos and videoshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/halie-rose-bloom-758454155/

In this episode, Bryan Driscoll shares his story of how an act of kindness from a stranger changed his life. Now, he is teaching us how to pay it forward with the Goodness Game.guest: Bryan Driscoll, author of the Goodness GameVisit the Website to Learn More: https://goodnessgame.com/aboutBuy the Book: the goodness game: Make the World Better and Feel Awesome While Doing It: Driscoll, Bryan D: 9780984189007: Books - Amazon.ca

In this episode, Silva explores the distinction between anger and aggression and shares valuable skills from anger management therapy, including assertiveness, boundaries, communication, and emotional regulation.Guest: Silva Depanian, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Anger Management CounselorVisit the Website to Learn More:Therapy | Sessions with Silva DepanianSilva Depanian - Avedian Counseling CenterConnect on Instagram: Silva Depanian, M.A. | Therapy (@sessions.with.silva) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode, Earl explores the impact of trauma on marginalized communities, with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community, and shares insights on how therapists and loved ones can foster a supportive and affirming environment.guest: Earl Martin, licensed clinical therapist and the owner of Innate Virtue CounselingVisit the Website To Learn More: https://www.earlmartinlcsw.com/Connect on Instagram: Earl C. Martin Jr., LCSW (@earlmartinlcsw) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode, Cloie delves into the principles of neuro-affirmative care, explaining its significance and offering insights into fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.guest: Dr. Cloie Parfitt, neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapist and researcherVisit the Website To Learn More: Diverse Minds Therapy - HOMEConnect on Instagram: Dr Cloie Parfitt | Diverse Minds Therapy (@the_neurodivergent_therapist) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode, Carrie and I talk about what it's like to be a caregiver, factors contributing to burnout, grief, and guilt, and the importance of community and resources to help caregivers.guest: Carrie Aalberts, Dementia DarlingVisit Website To Learn More:Home | Dementia DarlingConnect on InstagramDementia Educator | Carrie Aalberts (@dementiadarling) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode, Faust Ruggiero, presents the Process Way of Life, a step-by-step program that can transform your life into one that is happy, healthy, purposeful, and content. https://faustruggiero.com/

In this episode, Marc Fussell, Founder of Take2Minutes, talks about the impact of making time for gratitude and positive thoughts on your mental health. https://www.take2minutes.org/

In this episode, Dr. Schaeffer shares coping skills to quickly decrease the intensity of panic symptoms and rewire your nervous system to prevent future attacks. https://www.drchuckschaeffer.com/

In this episode, Dr. Tony Nader provides the methods, tools, and guidance for connecting with our authentic inner nature and understanding how Consciousness is the essence of all existence. https://www.drtonynader.com/about/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

The holidays look different this year for so many of us. With the loss of loved ones comes changes in how we approach the holidays – and navigating that grief can feel impossible this time of year. In this episode, Dr. Kate shares tools we can use to navigate grief and trauma this holiday season, like allowing your emotions to exist, fostering a sense of community, and making time for self-compassion. Guest: Dr. Kate Truitt: Clinical Psychologist, Applied Neuroscientist, and the author of “Healing In Your Hands” and “Keep Breathing” https://drtruitt.com/ https://truittinstitute.com/ https://traumacounseling.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Marci Hopkins opens up about her path to sobriety, transitioning from chaos to clarity, and the intense pressure on young adults to define their identity and future. guest: Marci Hopkins, author of “Chaos to Clarity: Seeing The Signs and Breaking The Cycles” and host of the weekly talk show, Wake Up With Marci. https://wakeupwithmarci.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Tara delves into the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, highlighting when it's not appropriate, her journey through multiple career changes, and how she empowers others to heal from trauma. guest: Tara Portelli, certified natural health practitioner, certified clinical hypnotist and founder of Arcadia Healing Sanctum https://www.arcadiahealing.ca/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Dr. Suptra Tovar, clinical psychologist and registered dietician, shares practical tips for navigating the holidays with conversations about food and your body. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we unpack the pressures of perfection and social comparison, explore the impact of intrusive thoughts, and discuss how embracing vulnerability can help us break free. Join us for a candid conversation on mental health, self-acceptance, and challenging the idea of perfection. guest: Hamza Islam, host of the Oh My Curry Goodness podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, I sit down with Pat as we dive into the root causes of substance use, the gaps in our behavioral healthcare system, and the critical need for harm reduction and insurance parity. Join us as we explore why open conversations are essential to shifting perspectives and sparking real change. guest: Patricia Roos, a former sociology professor at Rutgers University who lost her son Alex to a heroin overdose in 2015. It was then, she shifted into activism, sharing her story in her book, “Surviving Alex: A Mother's Story of Love, Loss, and Addiction." https://www.patroos.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, I sit down with Naomi to discuss the profound impact mindset has on our mental health and daily life. Join us as Naomi shares her journey from personal crisis to advocacy, offering profound insights on mental reorientation and tackling today's pressing issues. guest: Naomi Riley. After suffering a traumatic brain injury due to a distracted driver, Naomi's recovery became a story of gratitude, perseverance, and mindset transformation. She is now an author, motivational speaker and consultant helping bring clarity and mind shift your focus. https://naomilriley.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, I spoke with Joanne about the unique challenges of raising two sons with disabilities and how a life-changing moment at the pediatrician's office reshaped her entire journey as a mother. Joanne shares how lessons from her career as a modern dancer have influenced her coping tools, perspective, and approach to parenting. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, adaptability, and finding strength in unexpected places. guest: Joanne De Simone, author of “Fall and Recovery: Raising Children with Disabilities through Lessons Learned in Dance” amazon.com/Fall-Recovery-Raising-Children-Disabilities/dp/1647427142 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, I talked with Ihsan about his journey of finding purpose after the loss of a brother to suicide. Ihsan emphasizes the importance of creating supportive spaces where people leave feeling better and equipped with resources and underscores the need for self-care, mental health awareness, and tangible strategies to help individuals navigate their struggles. Guest: Ihsan Hines, Founder of My Brother's Keeper Cares, My Brother's Keeper Cares (MBKCares) promotes mental health awareness and suicide prevention through faith-based initiatives, art therapy, mentorship, educational outreach, fitness programs, and counseling resources. https://mbkcares.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is more than fatigue, it encompasses a wide range of symptoms, often stemming from burnout, that present as mysterious physical symptoms and it often takes years to diagnose. In this episode, I talked with Miguel about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, the progression of his symptoms, his medical journey trying to understand the cause of becoming bedridden, the first doctor who believed his symptoms and the program he created to manage his recovery journey. Miguel Bautista, health advocate and the creator of the CFS Recovery program https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh610cYKG5yfXlTT8Se97Vg/featured --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

What does anxiety mean to you? How do your anxious symptoms manifest themselves? What do you use to cope with anxiety symptoms? In this episode, I talked with Kevin about anxiety, our experiences with it manifesting in both mental and physical symptoms, and the tools we use to manage it. guest: Kevin Baker, a certified life coach for teens https://lifecoachkevin.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Codependency refers to enabling and controlling behaviors, poor boundaries, and focusing on others' needs instead of one's own needs. It is common in individuals with unresolved childhood trauma. In this episode, I talked with Ana about codependency, where it comes from, how it presents itself in current relationships, and the steps you can take to manage codependency in relationships. Guest: Ana Aslanian, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of California, Florida, and New York and the founder and director of My Therapy Corner https://mytherapycorner.com/breaking-free-from-codependency-steps-to-interdependence/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, I talked with Nana Crawford about body confidence, the impact of messaging from the media, the influence of your support system, and why talking about all of it matters guest: Nana Crawford, a dance fitness instructor empowering women to love themselves through the joy of movement. https://www.thisblackwomancan.com/about --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, I talked with Dr. Lauren Cook about anxiety and how it can cause physical symptoms like rapid heart rate and stomach distress. She emphasized the importance of understanding anxiety, its signs, and who to talk to for help. Dr. Cook also discussed how to live with anxiety, highlighting strategies like exposure therapy and taking short breaks to improve mental health. guest: Dr. Lauren Cook: clinical psychologist, speaker, and author of “Generation Anxiety” https://www.drlaurencook.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance's mission is to provide behavioral health workshops to fire departments, EMS and Dispatch organizations across the globe, focusing on behavioral health awareness with a strong emphasis towards suicide prevention and promoting resources available to firefighters/EMS/Dispatch and their families. In this episode, I talked with Jeff to discuss the critical importance of suicide prevention and mental health for first responders. Jeff shares valuable insights on the profound impact of moral injury and highlights the essential role relationships play in our lives. guest: Jeff Dill, founder of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance https://www.ffbha.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Tracey shares her journey of realizing that to help her daughter heal from an eating disorder, she first had to heal herself. Through conversations with her daughter, overcoming her own body insecurities, and developing effective coping skills, Tracey found a path to healing. She shares advice to other parents facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of self-care and open communication. Guest: Tracey Yokas, author of Bloodlines: A Memoir https://traceyyokascreates.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Dr. James shares his experience of managing high stress while balancing multiple roles to offer valuable insights into why setting boundaries and taking breaks is important. Remember, productivity does not have to mean overwhelming yourself with stress and responsibilities. Guest: Dr. George James, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Assistant Professor, Author, Speaker, and CEO & Founder of George Talks LLC https://www.georgetalks.com/about-1 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we explore the three essentials of optimal brain health: the impact of nutrition, exercise, and sleep on cognitive well-being. Join us as Dr. Ben Rein shares practical tips to enhance your mental performance and dives into the science of the human connection with dogs. Guest: Dr. Ben Rein, neuroscientist https://www.benrein.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Global Alliance for Behavioral Health and Social Justice has been informing policy, practice, and research at the intersection of human rights, social justice, and behavioral health since 1923. This episode teaches about the Global Alliance for Behavioral Health and Social Justice's mission and three important initiatives within the Global Mental Health Task Force. Guest: Gita Jaffe, Director of Policy and Programming for the Global Alliance for Behavioral Health and Social Justice https://bhjustice.org --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Estefania opens up about her journey through anxiety, developing effective tools and a support system to help manage her ruminating thoughts and panic attacks. Tune in for insights and strategies on building resilience and showing up for yourself. Guest: Estefania Saavedra, founder of “Anxiety Makes Me Funny" --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Kaelly shares her path from first-generation college student to entrepreneur, delving into the challenges and triumphs of opening her private practice. Discover the unseen struggles behind the scenes, from managing anxieties to balancing confidence with moments of doubt. guest: Kaelly Arellano, Licensed clinical social worker and co-founder of K & B THERAPY kandbtherapy.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

“I am not far enough along. Why am I not further along?” Enough-isms and Whys are common cognitive distortions that accompany stress. But, as we know, the way we speak to ourselves impacts the way our body responds to stressors. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of stress management, exploring the difference between healthy stressors that motivate us and distressors that hold us back. We provide actionable steps to combat stress, offering practical strategies to reframe distorted thinking and cultivate your resilience. guest: Dr. Karen Doll, licensed psychologist, consultant, and coach https://www.drkarendoll.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

⚠️ Trigger Warning: Eating Disorders Should a therapist self-disclose their struggles, symptoms, and/or diagnosis? And, if so, when, where, and how should they disclose? In this episode, we follow Lauren's journey from living with an eating disorder to seeking treatment and ultimately establishing her own private practice as a therapist. Join us as we navigate the intricacies of normalizing appropriate self-disclosure in therapy, aiming for deeper connections and validation. guest: Lauren Larkin, a licensed NYC therapist specializing in eating disorders https://leltherapy.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Anxiety triggers can be complex, often rooted in past experiences and conditioning. In this episode, we're diving into anxiety triggers. We'll equip you with the essential tools to understand your triggers and identify who installed them and, most importantly, how to unwire them. guest: Laura Rhodes-Levin, author and licensed therapist with expertise in anxiety, depression, and trauma https://missingpeace4anxiety.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

If you could talk to a younger version of yourself, what would you say? How would you comfort yourself? In today's episode, we're delving into the transformative practice of inner child work, exploring what inner child work entails, and tracing the origins of our early core beliefs and how they shape our present experiences. From there, we'll embark on a journey towards healing, discussing where to start with inner child healing and offering practical insights to begin this profound process of self-discovery and growth. Join us as we uncover the power of reconnecting with our inner child and embracing the path to wholeness. guest: licensed psychotherapist, Alyssa Mancao Contact — Alyssa Marie Wellness Inc --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Trauma permeates our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, shaping our responses to the world around us. But the question of healing remains – can someone truly overcome their trauma? In this episode, we're diving into the intricacies of trauma and its lasting effects, unpacking the distinction between trauma and PTSD, the role of forgiveness in the healing process, and the reality that past traumas can resurface even after we've made progress. Join us as we navigate the complexities of trauma, the journey of healing and resilience, and the path to reclaiming our lives. guest: author, psychiatrist, therapist, and trauma specialist Dr. Frank Anderson. https://frankandersonmd.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Sexual trauma has a profound impact on one's mental health, identity, relationships, and sexuality. In today's episode, we're exploring what sexual trauma is and how one can begin to rebuild trust and experience healthy relationships after trauma, as well as reclaim pleasure and find joy in sex post-trauma. guest: Dr. Holly Richmond, certified sex therapist and licensed marriage and family therapist working with survivors of sexual trauma https://www.reclaimingyourpleasure.com/rp-course --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Josh bravely unpacks the stigma and fears he encountered during this transformative experience, shedding light on the profound impact it had on his well-being. As the FDA conducts groundbreaking research and approves psychedelics for mental health treatment, we explore the significance of these developments and what can be expected in the future. Additionally, we debunk prevalent myths associated with psychedelics, offering a more nuanced understanding of their therapeutic potential. Finally, Josh shares insights into PsycheX's mission of increasing access and education to reputable and legal psychedelic providers, with a special focus on supporting veterans. Tune in as we delve into the realm of mental health, psychedelics, and breaking down common myths surrounding their use. guest: Josh Halu, the founder and CEO of PsycheX About Psychex --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, Jennifer illuminates the signs of an anxious attachment style, guiding listeners in recognizing and understanding their own relational patterns. With her wealth of knowledge drawn from spiritual psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR therapy, somatic psychotherapy, and couples therapy, Jennifer navigates us through the process of releasing anxious fears and fostering secure connections. In this episode, she shares seven practical tips for dating when you are anxiously attached, offering invaluable guidance for navigating relationships with confidence and authenticity. Tune in as we delve into the intricacies of anxious attachment styles and offer invaluable insights on overcoming the fear of abandonment in relationships. guest: Jennifer Nurick, a revered Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor, and Energetic Healer. Discover, Heal and Grow with Psychotherapy Central --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

Diet culture extends far beyond the complexities of our relationship with food and society. The intersection with systems of oppression like patriarchy, financial status, anti-immigration policies, and racism intertwine and exacerbate the pressures we face regarding our bodies and food choices. In today's episode, we're diving deep into the pervasive influence of diet culture, unpacking its definition and examining how it infiltrates our lives, leaving lasting impacts on our well-being. Then, we'll introduce intuitive eating, breaking down its principles and offering actionable steps for those looking to embrace it. guest: Sociologist Dismantling Diet Culture and Transforming the way Latinx Communities Care for Themselves, Dr. Hortencia Jimenez. https://hortenciajimenez.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we delve into the concept of moderation and medication-assisted treatment as alternative paths toward overcoming alcohol misuse. Join us as we discuss the potential benefits and considerations of these methods, providing insights into navigating the journey towards a healthier relationship with alcohol. guest: Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, CEO of Oar Health https://www.oarhealth.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we explore the fundamental principles of couple's therapy and shed light on the diverse reasons couples seek counseling, dispelling myths along the way. guest: Elizabeth Earnshaw, LMFT https://elizabethearnshaw.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we delve into the intertwining struggles of addiction and mental health, exploring Todd's journey from suicidal ideation to advocacy culminating in a newfound understanding through an ADHD diagnosis. guest: Todd Rennebohm, host of Bunny Hugs and Mental Health podcast https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/todd-rennebohm --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we delve into the profound journey of parenthood through Lynda's lived experience and her remarkable insights gained along the way. We'll explore how her journey led her to her pivotal role, advocating for children's mental health and social justice for families. Join us as we highlight the invaluable perspective of recognizing parents and caregivers as experts on their families, and the transformative power of Person-Centered Planning. As we commemorate Children's Mental Health Acceptance Week, themed "Lighting the Path to Social Justice for Children and Youth," Lynda guides us on a journey towards a more inclusive and compassionate future. guest: Dr. Lynda Gargan, the Executive Director of the National Federation of Families Learn more: https://www.ffcmh.org/acceptancecampaign --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support

In this episode, we unravel the intricate relationship between the pursuit of the American Dream and its toll on the mental well-being of Latino communities. guest: Dr. Paul Rivera, Co-Founder of BeActChange https://beactchange.com/ --- Normalize The Conversation by Inspiring My Generation is an initiative of Inspiring My Generation. Inspiring My Generation is a 501(c)3 on a mission of suicide prevention through awareness, conversation, empowerment, and support (aces). --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/normalizetheconversation/support