The Counselor's Couch

Follow The Counselor's Couch
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

A podcast dedicated to exploring topics and issues that enhance the lives and relationships of listeners. Calvin Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience helping clients overcome difficult challenges associated with

Calvin C Williams, LPC


    • Aug 28, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 42 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Counselor's Couch podcast is an incredible resource for anyone looking to gain insight and guidance in their personal and emotional lives. Hosted by a knowledgeable and experienced counselor, this podcast offers practical advice and thoughtful discussions on a wide range of topics related to human relationships, personal growth, and navigating life's challenges.

    One of the best aspects of The Counselor's Couch podcast is the host's down-to-earth approach to addressing various issues. They have a unique ability to break down complex psychological concepts into relatable and understandable terms. This makes it easier for listeners to grasp the information being presented and apply it to their own lives. The host also provides real-life examples and scenarios that further enhance understanding and make the content more applicable.

    Another commendable aspect of this podcast is its focus on questioning unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors. The host emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and encourages listeners to explore their own beliefs, assumptions, and actions. By examining these aspects, individuals can identify areas where they may be engaging in negative self-talk or engaging in unhelpful patterns. This introspection can lead to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and improved relationships with others.

    While there are many positive aspects of The Counselor's Couch podcast, one potential drawback is that the episodes can sometimes feel repetitive. Some topics may be discussed multiple times, which may not appeal to listeners who prefer new content with each episode. However, it is worth noting that revisiting certain subjects can reinforce learning and provide additional insights for those who may have missed previous episodes.

    In conclusion, The Counselor's Couch podcast offers invaluable insights into human relationships and personal development through its down-to-earth approach and emphasis on healthy questioning. It provides listeners with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges more effectively while fostering personal growth along the way. Whether you are seeking guidance on improving your relationships or simply want some practical advice for daily life, this podcast is definitely worth tuning in to.



    Search for episodes from The Counselor's Couch with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from The Counselor's Couch

    S3, Episode 1: Embrace Your Value

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 21:27


    Send us a textWe're Back!  Join Calvin as he returns for Season 3 of The Counselor's Couch.  After a summer of reflection and rest, Calvin returns with a season of hope and encouragement.  In this episode, Calvin explores the truth of our own value - it was never something we had to prove, it was something we only had to embrace.  Showing ourselves compassion and activating our abilities to overcome faulty beliefs are key.  Understanding how the brain functions and the awareness of neuroplasticity will make all the difference in this process.  You can create the life of freedom you seek. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 18: Why? Why? Why?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2024 19:58


    Join Calvin as he explores the power of Why?  Understanding Why? is imperative to personal growth and self-awareness.  In order to create the life we desire, we must be grounded in this understanding.  It helps us embrace the discomfort of our journey and empowers us to focus on our capabilities.  In order to change and grow, we must become comfortable with the uncomfortable.  The only claim Calvin has found to be true about personal growth is; "it's uncomfortable".Embrace the power of your disagreements and never let an opinion become your higher power. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 17: Power In Words

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2024 18:18


    Welcome back to The Couch.  Join Calvin in this session as he explores the power of language.  How do your words impact your life and the lives of others?  Words have the power to be destructive or constructive - you decide.  How do the words we use in our self-talk influence the life we create?  Becoming self-aware of your word choices will assist you on the path towards creating the life you seek. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 16: I'll Meet You Under the STOA in 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2024 21:23


    Welcome back to The Counselor's Couch.  Join Calvin as he shares his excitement and anxiety about new journeys in 2024.  Anxiety is a natural part of the change process, no matter who you are or what you are changing.  Is it possible that we may find a key to coping with the stress and anxiety we experience today in the Philosophical works of Ancient Stoics, like Xeno, Epictetus or Seneca?  What is Stoicism? Join Calvin, as he sets off on a personal journey to integrate the principles of ancient wisdom into his own life and the lives of others.  Why has there been a recent boost of people sharing the ancient wisdom of these philosophers, like we recycle ancient wisdom rather than create something new.  Perhaps, it is because in works.  Maybe we can even bring back the toga!  So, Join Calvin under the STOA  to embrace the virtues of Courage, Justice, Temperence and Wisdom in 2024. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 15: 'Tis The Season For Holiday Expectations

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2023 18:53


    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from The Counselor's Couch.  It is the height of the holiday season, and you can feel the stress building.   The traffic, the crowds, the music and the EXPECTATIONS.  Don't get us wrong, we love the Silver Bells, White Christmas, Blue Ribbons all Wrapped in Red music of the Holidays.  Have you ever considered how it may be establishing some subconscious expectations for "the perfect holiday"?  Does such a thing even exist?  NO.  The stress experienced during the holidays is often attributed to the expectations placed on us and the Holiday itself.  Are the expectations realistic?  Join Calvin, as he unpacks the emotional impact expectations of a perfect holiday have us.  Take your Holiday back from the fears and stress.  Acceptance is the key to navigating this season.  A perfect holiday does not exist but we can have a joyful one and embrace it with gratitude. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 14: The Power of Creation

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 20:22


    Welcome back to The Couch.  Have you ever wondered why your life has turned out this way?  Do you continue to struggle with making the changes you truly want in life.  Are you looking for someone to rescue you from your patterns of repetitive self- sabotage?  People often spend their entire life waiting for the cavalry to ride in and save the day to finally reach the realization that they are the cavalry.  Join Calvin as he explores the power of creation.  Are you a passive creator or an active creator in your life?  Many people are surprised when they realize they are the content creator of their own story.  Stop being surprised and take action.  When you own it, you can change it.  When you are aware of your power to create, you can create something new.  Create the new life you want or live with the one you have already created.  The choice is up to you. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 13: Let Me Tell You A Little Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2023 27:32


    "There is nothing more powerful in the world than a good story". Everybody has a story.  What does that really mean?  Our story is more than a historical reflection of our past.  Our story can shape our present and mold our future.  Our story can create an identity.  Many people struggle to make the changes they desire in their life because they allow their story to dictate their actions.  Join Calvin as he unpacks the power of a story as it leads to a belief, which becomes our truth and shapes our identity.  Why does it seem like everyone around you can make a change, accomplish goals, and have healthy relationships?  What makes them different from you?  It often comes down to the story.  Change your story and you can change your life.  Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 12: What's WRONG With Me?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2023 22:29


    I don't know if I have ever met a person that has never been asked this question, either by someone else or as an internal reflection.  What is WRONG with me?  This has become the mantra of many people we encounter today.  But why does it have to be wrong?  Although, it is common to ask the question, it is the manner in which you answer the question that truly matters.Join Calvin as he returns from a summer hiatus to explore his unique perspective on placing the concept of right and wrong on our humanity. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 11: Momma's Gonna Worry

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2023 22:23


    Momma is going to worry (and so is Daddy), the sooner you accept this, you will find peace.  Worrying about people is what we do as human beings, it is often a sign that we care about them.  So why do we try to tell ourselves or others not to do it?  Especially, since that never works out anyway.  Join Calvin, as he contemplates worry in our lives and how embracing it can actually help move us forward.  It is not about the worry, it is about what you do with the worry that really matters.  Worry by itself is not an effective problem solving paradigm.  However, when we can harness it as a call to action, the possibilities are limitless. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 10: Making the Unacceptable, Acceptable

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2023 25:19


    Hold on to your socks for this one!!  Join Calvin as he goes down the rabbit hole of what motivates our habit of making unacceptable behaviors, acceptable.  We do it all the time.  Some of us more often than others.  Unfortunately, we set ourselves up for disappointment because the reality is that we cannot truly make something acceptable that is unacceptable, despite our best efforts.  We will justify, rationalize and even settle for a life we don't want in an attempt to make something acceptable.  Why?  Join us on The Counselor's Couch to find out. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 9: Embrace Your Value

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2022 23:29


    Have you ever looked for something that was never lost in the first place?  We all do it from time to time.  We look for the keys or the remote control that was never really lost, it was simply covered up by something else.  If something is never really lost, can it be found?  Join Calvin as he explores the simple truth we all need to hear - YOU ARE OF VALUE!  This is the truth, it was never dependent on what you do or do not do.  Unfortunately, somewhere we bought into The Great Delusion and attached our value to something other than the truth.  We then set off on a lifetime of looking for something that was never lost in the first place.  Stop acting on fear and start living your life based on your value. Thanks for listening and if you have enjoyed The Counselor's Couch, then let us know. Take a moment and leave a quick review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts. Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend or family member and remember "You are not alone and You are of Value".

    S2, Episode 8: Self-Care and Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2022 21:09


    Grab the green ribbons it is Mental Health Awareness Month all year long!!!  Or should I say every day is Mental Health Awareness Day.   Why dedicate a month to mental health when it is such an important part of your daily life.  Join Calvin as he explores the importance of self-care in maintaining your mental well-being.  What are some of the beliefs leading to our tendency to sabotage our own self care?  Explore the difference between self-care and selfishness.If you enjoy The Counselor's Couch, then let us know.  Take a moment to leave a review of this episode or any episode on Apple Podcasts.  Your review really does make a difference and they help us know if we are heading in the right direction.Comments, questions or topics of interest can be emailed to: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comShare an episode with a friend and remember "you are not alone".

    S2, Episode 7: Understanding TRAUMA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2022 26:01


    Welcome Back to The Couch.In this episode, Calvin explains trauma and the impact it has on our development and our ability to function.  Whether it is trauma with a capital "T" or trauma with a lower case "t", it is still trauma.  Calvin explores how trauma is more than an emotional reaction to a disturbing event.  In fact, in many cases, it is not about the event at all, it is about the reaction to the event.  Trauma affects us emotionally, mentally and PHYSICALLY.  So, what are we doing to help people overcome the trauma they have experienced?  In this session Calvin provides a brief overview of the therapeutic tool known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and how it can help clients process trauma and take back their lives.You are encouraged to share The Counselor's Couch with others and leave a review on whatever format you use listen.  If you would like to leave comments or suggestions for future episodes, please email calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.com.Remember, you are not alone and there is always room for you on The Counselor's Couch.

    S2, Episode 6: The Mistakes We Make

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2022 23:05


    Nashville HOT chicken and who burned down the boat!!!  Nobody truly enjoys making mistakes.  We ALL make mistakes, period, end of sentence.  This is the simple honest truth.  Mistakes happen, for some of us more often than we prefer, but they happen.  It is not really about the mistake it is about what you do afterwards that truly matters.  Did you know that mistakes are how we as human beings learn?  Have you ever heard of the term "trial and error"?  Unfortunately, because of the shame and beliefs we attach to making mistakes in the first place we often fail to learn what is necessary to grow and change.  Which, ironically sets us up to make the mistake again.  Join Calvin as he unpacks the struggles we often face embracing our mistakes as opportunities and not a declaration of self value.

    S2, Episode 5: It's Relationships Not Rocket Science

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2022 23:28


    Welcome Back to The Counselor's Couch!  Pull up a cushion, kick off your shoes and grab a cup of coffee - Let's get started with the session.We all have relationships of every kind, romantic partners, coworkers, children, friendships and so many more.  It is simple a part of the human experience.  We are designed to be relational in nature.  So, why do we screw it up so often!  Many people struggle with navigating the most natural thing that we are designed to do - relate to other human beings.  Join Calvin as he unpacks and explores the complicated simplicity of relationships.  What drives our dynamics?  What are the metrics we apply to our friendships, spouses or children?  Do we simply not know how to be genuine?  Perhaps - or perhaps it is our human tendency to complicate things - it's not rocket science, it's relationships.Listeners are encouraged to follow The Counselor's Couch and please leave a review on whatever format you use to listen to podcasts.  Questions and comments regarding the show can be emailed directly to calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comRemember, you are not alone.  Live intentionally, Love Daily and Laugh Often.

    S2, Episode 4: Decisional Fatigue

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2022 18:42


    "What do you want for dinner?  I don't know what do you want for dinner? I don't know."  Have you ever had this familiar conversation?  Probably in one form or another.  Every evening across the world this conversation or a similar one usually takes place.  What makes a simple decision such a perplexing wonder to capable adults? What could be at the heart of this indecision?  DECISIONAL FATIGUE.  It finally makes sense.  Join Calvin as he breaks down the psychological phenomenon of decisional fatigue and offers skills to protect the valuable resources associated with your decision making.

    S2, Episode 3: Overcoming Fear

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2022 25:20


    Let's talk about FEAR.  Fear can be overwhelming.  It can drive behavior, make decisions, avoid opportunities and stir up self-doubt.  It confuses, conflicts and controls - but only if you give it power in your life.  Join Calvin as he unpacks fear in order to help you find a true meaning behind your emotion creating an opportunity to grow through self-awareness, self-acceptance and emotional empowerment.You are encouraged to share The Counselor's Couch with others and leave a review on whatever format you listen.  If you would like to leave a suggestion for future episodes or if you have questions or comments, please email them to calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.comRemember, you are not alone.  There is always room for you on The Counselor's Couch

    S2, Episode 2: Burnout and Stress

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2022 21:02


    Do you ever feel like your fire within is going out?  Perhaps you are struggling with the psychological phenomenon known as BURNOUT.  In this episode, Calvin will explore the difference between stress and burnout, how stress leads to burnout and some helpful hints to develop a Self-Care Plan.

    S2, Episode 1: Developing A Hope Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2022 24:56


    Welcome Back to The Couch.  Calvin returns for Season 2 with the goal to empower listeners to take an active role in their life.  This session explores the true definition of Hope as a cognitive process.  Accepting the fact that life will bring problems and struggles allows us to navigate them more effectively.  When we understand that hope is a way of thinking we can then take an active role in developing hope for ourselves, others and our world.Join Calvin on the journey of developing a Hope Mindset.You are encouraged to share The Counselor's Couch with others and leave a review on whatever format you listen.  If you would like to leave a suggestion for future episodes or if you have questions or comments, please email them to calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.com.Remember, you are not alone and there is always room for you on The Counselor's Couch

    Episode 22: Meet The Peeps

    Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Jan 9, 2022 83:50


    Buckle Up and Hold On!!  We are pulling back the curtain and giving you a glimpse behind the scenes of Calvin's life.  As we prepare for Season 2 of The Counselor's Couch, we are leaning into the courage of vulnerability.  Join Calvin as he introduces you to his primary support group - the family.  Calvin is joined by Cindy, his wife of 25 years, a Nationally Certified Counselor and National Certified School Counselor and his son Ethan, a college student with a passion for life and music.  Together they will explore relationships, connection, infertility, quarantine and so much more.  So come on over, pull up a cushion, kick off your shoes, grab a cup of coffee and spend some time with family.

    Episode 21: Questioning Versus Condemnation

    Play Episode Play 59 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 18, 2021 23:08


    Do you remember learning in school that there was no such thing as a stupid question?  It's true.  Questions are how we learn, change and grow as a human being.  But when does questioning become something else?  When does it become an excuse to beat ourselves up.  When does questioning become condemnation.  Join Calvin as he explores the true meaning of questioning self.  Are you really questioning your value?  Is it really a question if you have already determined the answer?  You may actually be looking for a confirmation of a pre-existing belief or doubt you have about yourself.  You may actually be practicing  condemnation of self.

    Episode 20: It's Not My Fault

    Play Episode Play 31 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 28, 2021 24:20


    In this episode, Calvin challenges the practice of blaming by exploring what motivates this behavior in many of us.  Blaming as an attempt to avoid personal responsibility establishes and maintains a victim role.  Calvin will address the concern that many people revictimize themselves by participating in the blame game years after experiencing abuse in their lives.  It is not about what happens to you, it is about what you do with what happens to you that really matters.  The practice of avoidance through blaming never results in the outcome we are seeking, unless you are looking to create the exact thing you are trying to avoid.  To grow as an individual and make changes in our lives we must embrace personal responsibility and ownership of our life in the current moment.  You are not responsible for what happened to you, but you are responsible for where you go from here.

    Episode 19: Revisiting Anxiety - The Boys Are Back In Town

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 15, 2021 26:11


    Did you know that anxiety can affect your vision and even cause rashes?  Sometimes we get so caught up in looking for the forest that we miss the trees.  In this episode, Calvin returns to the emotional elephant in the room that many of us are struggling with in our current climate - ANXIETY.  He explores the various physical manifestations of anxiety both common and uncommon.  Education and awareness can make the difference between managing your anxiety and experiencing a full blown anxiety attack.  Take you power back!

    Episode 18: Things Are Going To Go Wrong

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2021 22:44


    Do you fear making the wrong decision or making a mistake?  Well, you will do exactly that at some time - it is inevitable.  In this episode, Calvin explores the reality of living in a world of chaos and embracing the fact that things will go wrong - it's alright - you will be OK.  Why? Because we are hard wired to cope by being a problem solver, not a perfectionist.  Decisions are about making choices and dealing with consequences.  They are not about getting it right or getting it wrong.  What truly matters is what you will do next.  Did you learn, grow, adapt or did you stop making decisions and avoid living your life?

    Episode 17: Navigating Our Current Climate

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2021 26:30


    In this timely episode, Calvin shares an exploration of his thoughts and questions regarding the wide spectrum of reactions we are currently seeing in response to COVID.  He explores openly and candidly the confusion manifested by mixed messages and emotional reactions amid facts, truths, beliefs, values, perspectives and opinions.  Exploring the challenges we face trusting in our current climate and hope for a path forward

    Episode 16: The Illusion of Control

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2021 24:51


    Welcome Back!  Calvin returns from the mid season break with his usual curiosity and insight.  Have you ever felt like your life or the world around you was spinning out of control?  What if you were to learn you never had control in the first place?  In this episode, Calvin explores the concept of control and how quickly we invest in things outside of our actual control.  He explores the reality of what is in your "circle of control" and how you can influence and impact the world around you.  The  focus is on finding true empowerment and peace by taking control of your circle and your life.

    Episode 15: Emotional Empowerment

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2021 29:03


    Have you ever heard someone say "you make me angry" or "You push my buttons"?  Where is this mysterious button panel and why are we letting people push our buttons?  Statements like this foster a disconnect from our personal power over our emotions.  They distance us from our feelings, justify our behaviors and allow us to avoid personal responsibility.  Well, it stops now!  In this episode Calvin explores the foundation of taking your power back and placing yourself in the driver's seat through Emotional Empowerment by exploring Why we have feelings and What do they actually do - their purpose.

    Episode 14: Joy In The Journey

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2021 25:11


    As the summer begins and COVID restrictions lift, many families find themselves gearing up for the summer road trip or vacation.  In this episode, Calvin explores  how quickly our trips and travel plans can  lead to conflicts and stress, resulting in the desire to stop the car and run away.  Vacation means to devote time for rest, relaxation and pleasure so what makes it go sideways?  We often find our vacation plans are influenced by the expectations we place on the trip and our traveling companions.  Unmet or unrealistic expectations will lead to disappointment and conflict which will sabotage our joy.  Join Calvin as he explores some tips to help us find joy in the Journey.

    Episode 13: Overcoming Decisional Regret

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2021 29:48


    Have you ever made a decision that you regretted?  Of course you have, we all do it from time to time.  In this episode, Calvin will explore the fundamental conclusions that often lie beneath our decisional regret and some helpful strategies to improve your decision making skills utilizing a 7 step process for making decisions.  Calvin will share his theory that most people make the best decision they know how to make at the time that they make it with the information they have at that specific time.  Rather than beat ourselves up for the decision and live in regret, we are free to make another decision with the new information we gained by making the initial decision.  Unfortunately, we will not learn any new information by living in regret of why we made the decision in the first place.

    Episode 12: Words, Words, Words

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2021 28:52


    Welcome back to The Counselor's Couch.  In this episode, Calvin explores the impact words have on our lives and the lives of others.  He explores the importance of being aware of dominant thought in your communication with others and the conversations we all have in our own heads.  The skill of using words effectively can influence, encourage, heal or destroy - it's up to you to choose how you use them.  Listeners are encouraged to focus on the control of the controllable in their own life - which includes their words.Listeners are encouraged to follow The Counselor's Couch and leave a review on the format that you use to listen to podcasts.Calvin can be reached directly by email with comments, suggestions or questions: calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.com.  He is always open to hearing from listeners

    Episode 11: Self Awareness

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2021 29:17


    The current trend seems to be about becoming self aware, but what does that really mean?  Are we as self aware as we think?  In this episode, Calvin explores some of the fundamentals of being self aware, including strategies and benefits.  This journey leads into an exploration of emotional awareness or what is commonly referred to a emotional intelligence.  As always, Calvin enjoys exploring the questions and seeking to understand.Listeners are encouraged to follow The Counselor's Couch and leave a review on the format that you use to listen to podcasts.Calvin can be reached directly by email with comments, suggestions or questions:calvin@calvincwilliamslpc.com.  He is always open to hearing from listeners.

    Episode 10: Problem Solving 1-2-3

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2021 26:30


    In this episode Calvin explores the power of simplicity.  Simplicity is the product of genius, but how do we complicate the simplest of tasks?   Problem solving can be as simple as 1-2-3, however simple does not mean easy.  Despite being hard wired to problem solve, we often struggle with it.  By explore helpful strategies to improve problem solving and recognize the areas of complication maybe you can become a master problem solver, after all it is in your DNA!

    Episode 9: Grief Sucks

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2021 29:39


    Experiencing loss is an inevitable part of everyone's life.  We cannot run from it, hide from it or avoid it.  However, we can understand it.  In this episode Calvin will explore the common stages of the grief process that we all experience.  Increasing our awareness of the process will not make it hurt less but it can help us realize we are not going crazy!  Grief must be witnessed as a part of the healing process and learning what to expect and how to lean into the stages of grief helps.

    Episode 8: All Behavior Makes Sense, In Context

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2021 24:41


    Welcome Back to The Counselor's Couch.  In this  episode Calvin explores the age old question of - Why do people act the way they do?  He explores the concept that "all behavior makes sense, in context" and the challenges we often face in identifying the context.  This struggle often lies at the heart of every relational conflict.  Ultimately, the goal of finding resolutions to conflicts in our lives and the world can be found in learning to "walk a mile" in someone else's shoes.  Calvin explores how your relationships and your life can improve when you listen to others with a genuine intention of understanding rather than an intention to reply.  He openly encourages you to cultivate a loving curiosity in your daily walk in order to truly see that "all behavior does make sense, in context".

    Episode 7: Gratitude and Seeing Blue Dots.

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2021 19:19


    Welcome back to The Counselor's Couch.  In this week's episode Calvin explores research that supports the idea that if you look for something negative - you will find something negative.  It's how the brain works.  However, the practice of gratitude has been shown to change brain activity.  Can we train the brain to find the positive and ultimately see less blue dots!Calvin offers several options to integrate the practice of gratitude into your daily life.An attitude of gratitude can make a difference.

    Episode 6: Embracing the Change Process

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2021 29:30


    Everyone experiences change - it can't be avoided.  Whether it is change by choice or it just happens for us, we have an active role in the process.  In this episode, Calvin will explore the The Stages of Change Model and how our awareness of the individual stages can empower us to remain motivated and make the changes we seek.This episode  is timely and aligns well with Calvin's return to the gym after a long hiatus - utilizing the Stages of Change Model to develop a healthy habit in the midst of early morning wake up calls, group text messages and significant physical discomfort.

    Episode 5: The Serenity Prayer, A Practical Application (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2021 23:54


    In the episode, Calvin continues to explore the practical application of The Serenity Prayer, building on the previous episode's definition of serenity and the acceptance of things we cannot change. Today we define courage and wisdom as they relate to the prayer.   The episode focuses on empowering listeners to start changing the things they can and embracing the wisdom they have gathered from their experiences in this world.Listeners are left with a challenge to practice a daily inventory designed to accompany the practical application of the prayer.God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.

    Episode 4: The Serenity Prayer, A Practical Application (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2021 27:37


    In this  episode, Calvin embraces the importance of acceptance in our lives by exploring  The Serenity Prayer.  Although many people are familiar with the prayer, Calvin takes the time to deep dive into it, piece by piece, exploring it as a request with specific emphasis on Who, What and Why?  Always having a passion of the right tool for the right job, Calvin focuses on the role serenity plays in the acceptance process, especially accepting the things we cannot change.  Join Calvin as he shares the practical application of The Serenity Prayer to overcome stress, develop  peace and take charge of your life.God, grant me serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference.

    Episode 3: Acceptance

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2021 14:08


    As the country reaches the one year mark for the COVID pandemic,  Calvin explores the basic tenets of ACCEPTANCE.  He will openly explore what acceptance truly means and the importance it plays in personal empowerment toward taking action.  This is a brief episode establishing a foundation for Episode 4: The Serenity Prayer, A Practical Application.  So make yourself comfortable and thanks for joining us on The Counselor's Couch.

    Episode 2: Anxiety, The Emotional Elephant in the Room

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2021 27:11


    In this episode Calvin explores the difference between anxiety and anxiety disorders.  Emphasis is placed on normalizing the anxiety we experience in relation to the world around us empowering listeners to own their emotions.  He explores how anxiety can manifest physically and directly impact our ability to act in our best interests.  Listeners are encouraged to develop a personal awareness of their own anxiety and develop an Anxiety Response Plan.  Calvin provides listeners with a 3 step plan designed to assist you with reducing physiological reactions, eliminate avoidance and challenge thoughts that facilitate anxiety.

    Episode 1: Introduction and Intentional Living

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2021 25:31


    Welcome to The Counselor's Couch.  In this debut episode Calvin Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor will openly explore the motivation behind starting this podcast and our human need for connection.  The last year has been a challenge for many of us, from COVID to politics, our lives have changed.  As well as an introduction, Calvin will explore helpful tips on Living Intentionally, which sets the foundation for future episodes. So pull up a cushion, kick off your shoes and make your self comfortable on The Counselor's Couch.

    The Counselor's Couch Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2021 1:21


    Claim The Counselor's Couch

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel