The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

Inside the Troubled Teen Industry: Wilderness Therapy, Residential Treatment, and the Harm Done to Kids – An Interview with Chelsea Maldonado and Dr. Will Dobud Dr. Will Dobud and survivor advocate Chelsea Maldonado on wilderness therapy, residential treatment, institutional abuse, and what therapists need to know to support troubled teen industry survivors.  Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Will Dobud and Chelsea Maldonado about what actually happens inside the troubled teen industry, why the marketing rarely matches the reality, and how wilderness therapy programs and residential treatment facilities continue to operate despite decades of survivor testimony, documented abuse, and youth deaths.  The conversation covers why so many adopted youth and foster youth end up in these facilities, how restraints, isolation, and medical neglect produce lasting trauma, and why power dynamics and institutional structure undermine real therapeutic work. Will and Chelsea also discuss the silence of professional associations after youth deaths, the recent Atlantis Leadership Academy case in Jamaica, and what therapists working with troubled teen industry survivors can do to create safer therapeutic relationships.  In this episode, we discuss:  What therapists get wrong about wilderness therapy and residential treatment Why "round the clock therapy" marketing rarely matches the reality inside facilities How restraints, isolation, and medical neglect cause lasting harm Why adopted youth and foster youth are disproportionately placed in these programs The role of power dynamics and institutional structure in the troubled teen industry Why survivors are highly traumatized and highly therapy resistant How therapists can work more safely and effectively with survivors The silence of professional associations after youth deaths in licensed, accredited facilities  Timestamps:  07:34 – What actually happens inside troubled teen industry facilities 13:04 – Katie reflects on her own residential treatment experience 16:28 – Common harms: restraints, medical neglect, sexual abuse 19:38 – Power, conversion-style programming, and adopted youth 24:31 – Why these facilities still exist 28:07 – Attachment, restraints, and institutional contradictions 33:00 – What actually helps youth in crisis 38:14 – The Atlantis Leadership Academy case and survivor-led advocacy  Guests: Dr. Will Dobud, Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Charles Sturt University and former wilderness therapy field guide whose research focuses on improving outcomes for teenagers and exposing harm in the troubled teen industry (willdobud.com). Chelsea Maldonado, troubled teen industry survivor, lead researcher for the Trapped in Treatment podcast, and consultant to Paris Hilton's nonprofit 11:11 Media Impact (1111mediaimpact.com).  Full show notes and transcript: mtsgpodcast.com  Join the Modern Therapist Community  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined  Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits  Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

Why Therapists Stop Working with Kids and What It Takes to Stay: Sustainability, Boundaries, and Pivots for the Long Haul Curt Widhalm, LMFT, and Katie Vernoy, LMFT push back on the field's quiet stereotype that working with kids is the "starter home" of private practice, the place clinicians put in time before graduating to a cardigan and a wing-back chair. Working with kids and teens is not entry-level work. It is some of the most clinically and physically demanding work in the profession, and it has a sustainability problem that rarely gets named honestly. Curt and Katie examine why so many therapists who work with kids and teens hit a wall around the five-year mark, and why that wall is rarely about clinical depth. They unpack the sensory toll, the parent communication load, the school and provider coordination, the cost of running a play therapy room, and the way a child caseload can quietly distort a clinician's sense of what is developmentally typical. They also talk about how to build a long-haul career working with kids, teens, and families without becoming, in Curt's words, "a cynical, glitter-covered shell of a human being." This is a conversation for therapists in private practice, supervisors of clinicians who work with minors, and anyone weighing whether to keep working with kids, scale back, or pivot. In this episode, we discuss: Why working with kids is not a lesser clinical specialty Why the work is hard to sustain, and why "burnout" alone does not fully explain it How shifting from kid sessions to family work and parent work extends the clinical impact The sensory, physical, and administrative load of working with kids Why parents contact child therapists more than adult clients contact their own therapists The financial and logistical reality of running a play therapy room How a clinical caseload can distort a therapist's sense of typical development When a pivot to adult, family, or parent work is healthy, and when it is avoidance Timestamps: 00:15 — The "starter home" stereotype, and the five-year wall 06:03 — The 167-hour problem and why kid work is family work 10:08 — The sensory and physical toll 12:58 — Caseload diversification and structuring the day 19:41 — The unpaid hours: parents, schools, and the village 23:43 — The play therapy industrial complex 27:59 — Keeping up with kids' culture without losing yourself 30:19 — How a clinical caseload distorts the sense of typical development 33:09 — Expectations, moral injury, and what "fix my kid" really costs 35:01 — When a pivot is survival, and when it is avoidance Full show notes and resources: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann — https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano — https://groomsymusic.com/

When Good Moms Feel Bad: Supporting Mothers in Therapy with IFS and the Mom Parts Method – An Interview with Jessica Tomich Sorci, LMFT Jessica Tomich Sorci, LMFT, creator of the Mom Parts Method, on IFS, maternal mental health, mom shame, and why "bad mom" parts are protectors, not problems. Curt and Katie talk with Jessica Tomich Sorci, LMFT about what therapists often miss when working with mothers, and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) can be adapted for the real conditions of motherhood. Jessica is the creator of the Mom Parts Method and author of When Good Moms Feel Bad: An Empowering Guide for Transforming Guilt, Anxiety and Anger into Compassion, Confidence and Connectedness (Balance, 2026). Drawing on more than fifteen years of clinical work in maternal mental health, Jessica translates IFS into accessible, motherhood-native language. The Mom Parts Method gives mothers simple tools to identify their parts, access their Inner Mom, and approach guilt, grief, rage, and overwhelm with curiosity instead of correction. This is a useful conversation for therapists working with mothers, perinatal mental health clinicians, and anyone interested in more affirming, non-pathologizing approaches to maternal mental health. In this episode, we discuss: What therapists often get wrong when working with mothers How the Mom Parts Method translates IFS into motherhood-native language The role of patriarchy, under-resourcing, and matrescence in maternal distress Why "bad mom" parts (rage, panic, perfectionism, the inner critic) are protectors The five-step Mom Parts Method, from triggering event to remedy How therapists' own parts show up in this work Why healing in maternal mental health is wholeness, not elimination Full show notes and transcript: mtsgpodcast.com Timestamps: 03:30 - What therapists get wrong with mothers 04:47 - Shame and the "bad mom" taboo 10:45 - Patriarchy, matrescence, and the systemic context 17:42 - The five-step Mom Parts Method 29:56 - Healing is wholeness, not elimination 33:48 - When to bring parts work into session 35:27 - When Good Moms Feel Bad and Mothercentered training Guest Bio: Jessica Tomich Sorci, LMFT is a Level 3 Certified IFS Therapist, IFSI Approved Clinical Consultant, and a Certified Perinatal Mental Health therapist (PMH-C) with advanced training in IFIO. She is the creator of the Mom Parts Method and author of When Good Moms Feel Bad (Balance, 2026). She trains clinicians through her Mothercentered certification program. Learn more at www.momparts.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community Podcast: mtsgpodcast.com Patreon: patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

Why Fixing Teens Doesn't Work and What Actually Helps Youth Mental Health: An Interview with Dr. Will Dobud Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Will Dobud about what therapists often get wrong when working with teens, why adolescent behavior is so often overpathologized, and how connection, play, risk, and mastery can better support youth mental health. They also explore the so-called youth mental health crisis, the impact of overmanagement and disconnection, and what therapists can do to better engage young people in meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways. About Our GuestDr. Will Dobud is a social worker, researcher, and educator who has worked with adolescents and families in the United States, Australia, and Norway. He is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Charles Sturt University and an award-winning researcher focused on improving therapy outcomes for teenagers and promoting safe, ethical practices. His work has also examined America's Troubled Teen Industry, especially wilderness therapy. Key Takeaways Teens are often overpathologized when they may be showing developmentally normal behavior. Youth therapy should focus on engagement, interaction, play, and doing things together, not just sitting and talking. Social disconnection, fewer third spaces, and less unstructured play may be contributing to youth distress. Young people will seek connection wherever they can find it, including online and through AI relationships. Therapists can help teens build resilience by supporting autonomy, mastery, and meaningful participation. Find the full show notes and transcript at mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Podcast Homepage: https://mtsgpodcast.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

The Burden of Potential: Therapy for Gifted Adults Navigating Burnout, Identity, and 2e Considerations Gifted adults do not usually come to therapy naming giftedness as the issue. More often, they present with burnout, anxiety, depression, underperformance, identity confusion, relationship strain, or existential distress. In this continuing education episode, Katie Vernoy and Curt Widhalm explore how gifted adults show up in therapy, how to distinguish giftedness from high achievement, and how 2e considerations can complicate assessment and treatment. Curt and Katie discuss the hidden cost of success, including masking, perfectionism, chronic overfunctioning, executive functioning workarounds, code-switching, and the pressure of living up to potential. They also look at what helps in therapy: deeper assessment, intellectual attunement, self-compassion, sustainability, accommodations, and values-aligned treatment. In this podcast episode, we discuss: common presenting concerns for gifted adults in therapy the difference between giftedness, achievement, and eminence burnout, perfectionism, and chronic overfunctioning masking, self-editing, and existential loneliness 2e considerations and hidden neurodivergence treatment strategies that go beyond basic coping skills This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit through the Modern Therapist Learning Community. To receive CE credit, listen to the episode, register for your free profile at moderntherapistcommunity.com, purchase the course, pass the post-test, and complete the evaluation. Full show notes, transcript, and episode resources will be available at mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Podcast Homepage: https://www.mtsgpodcast.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

How Therapists Can Help Clients With IBS, Chronic Nausea, and Gut-Brain Disorders: An Interview with Dr. Ali Navidi, PsyD Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Ali Navidi, PsyD about disorders of gut-brain interaction, including IBS, chronic nausea, and other GI conditions that therapists may see more often than they realize. They explore how the gut-brain axis works, which clients may be more likely to struggle with these concerns, how therapists can stay within scope, and why specialized behavioral health treatment can directly improve symptoms rather than only helping clients cope with them. About Our GuestDr. Ali Navidi, PsyD is a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of GI Psychology, a national telehealth practice specializing in the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and chronic pain. In addition to providing patient care, Dr. Navidi oversees clinical training and outreach initiatives at the practice. He has presented on GI disorders and chronic pain to organizations across the country, including the American College of Gastroenterology, UNC School of Medicine, George Mason University, Georgetown University (Grand Rounds), INOVA, as well as through podcasts, television appearances, and multiple State Academies of Nutrition and Dietetics. Key Takeaways Therapists are in a strong position to notice GI issues, especially in clients with anxiety, trauma histories, autism, or eating disorders. Disorders of gut-brain interaction are not just “in someone's head.” The pain and symptoms are real, even when there is no visible structural problem. Therapists should encourage appropriate medical evaluation and collaborate with gastroenterologists rather than trying to diagnose IBS or other GI disorders on their own. Specialized CBT and clinical hypnosis can directly treat gut-brain disorders, not just the anxiety that surrounds them. Dr. Navidi, PsyD describes a treatment model focused on hypervigilance, catastrophizing, and visceral hypersensitivity. When diet questions come up, therapists should be cautious and refer to GI-focused dietitians when appropriate. Therapists should also be careful about overconfident claims related to the microbiome, SIBO, and other popular gut-health conversations. For full show notes and the transcript for this episode, visit mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Podcast Homepage: mtsgpodcast.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

What Therapists Need to Know About Neurodivergent Clients and Families: An Interview with David Smith, LCSW Curt and Katie talk with David Smith about neurodiversity-affirming therapy, autism, ADHD, PDA, family systems, and burnout for neurodivergent therapists. David shares both clinical expertise and lived experience as an autistic therapist, offering practical guidance for working more effectively with neurodivergent clients and the families around them. About Our Guest: K. David Smith, LCSW K. David Smith, LCSW, is an autistic therapist who provides neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed therapy online in 5 states (Oregon, California, Idaho, Vermont, and Florida). He also provides clinical supervision for therapists working toward LCSW or LPC licensure in Oregon, particularly those who are neurodivergent themselves or who are passionate about supporting neurodivergent clients. In addition, he provides consultation, training, and workshops for medical practices and professionals, other therapists, employers, and school districts about ways to become more neurodiversity-affirming and supportive of neurodivergent people. Key Takeaways - Therapists often miss neurodivergence entirely and may treat anxiety, depression, or “thought errors” without considering whether a client is struggling in environments that were not built for their nervous system. - Neurotypical therapists can work well with neurodivergent clients when they lead with curiosity, attunement, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt how therapy is structured. - PDA can look like defiance, but David reframes it as an anxiety- and threat-based response to demands. Traditional rewards and consequences may backfire. - Neurodivergence in families is often intergenerational, with different neurotypes shaping attachment, communication, expectations, and family roles. - Neurodivergent therapists need more than generic self-care. Sustainable practice may require reducing demands, grounding, rest, and nervous-system-informed regulation. Full show notes and transcript will be available at mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

How Clients Experience Therapy: From First Inquiry to the Waiting Room: An Interview with Michael Ashford Curt and Katie talk with Michael Ashford about how clients experience therapy before the clinical work even begins. They explore what therapists can learn from customer service, communication, and marketing to create a smoother, more supportive experience from first inquiry through intake, onboarding, waiting room logistics, and practice policies. This conversation looks at how clarity, thoughtful systems, and strong boundaries can improve client experience while also supporting therapists. About the Guest Michael Ashford is the Senior Director of Marketing at Sign In Solutions and has spent the past decade building and leading marketing teams at companies large and small. Michael is a former award-winning journalist, a two-time TEDx speaker, and holds a Master's degree in Communication from Kansas State University. Michael's approach to marketing focuses on scaling companies through the power of effective communication, storytelling, and humanizing brands. Key Takeaways Client experience starts before the first session Clear expectations reduce client stress and confusion Website messaging, intake, and onboarding should feel seamless Waiting room and check-in systems matter more than many therapists realize Good customer service includes strong boundaries around time, fees, and cancellations Full show notes and transcript: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Podcast Homepage: https://mtsgpodcast.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

Adapting EMDR for Neurodivergent Clients: Parts Work, Attunement, and Affirming Trauma Therapy, An Interview with Cathy Hanville and Christine MacInnis Curt and Katie talk with Cathy Hanville and Christine MacInnis about how to adapt EMDR for autistic and ADHD clients with more flexibility, safety, and affirming care. They explore why standard protocols can miss important client needs, how parts work can support trauma treatment, and what therapists should consider when working with neurodivergent clients whose trauma is tied to masking, chronic correction, social rejection, and being misunderstood. In this episode, we talk about: Why EMDR often needs adaptation across all eight phases How parts work can support neurodivergent clients in trauma treatment The impact of masking, correction, and misunderstanding as trauma Sensory, communication, and processing differences therapists need to consider Moving away from compliance-based care toward attunement and collaboration About the guests Christine MacInnis, MSed, MS, LMFT owns Transcends Family Therapy in Torrance, California, specializing in neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming, trauma-informed care. She is additionally licensed in Arizona and Ohio, is an EMDRIA-approved consultant, and provides advanced training on neurodiversity-affirming EMDR, ADHD, and autism. Learn more at www.transcendstherapy.com. Cathy Hanville, LCSW (They/She) is a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania and California, an EMDRIA-approved consultant, and a continuing education provider. They help therapists identify blind spots so they can provide gender- and neurodiversity-affirming care. Learn more at www.cathyhanville.com. Cathy and Christine are under contract with Norton Publishing to write Neurodivergent Paths to Healing: Affirming EMDR and Parts Work for Autistic and ADHD Clients, expected in early 2027. Key takeaways Therapists often need to adapt EMDR for every client, not just neurodivergent clients Neurodivergent-affirming EMDR requires flexibility, collaboration, and sensory awareness Parts work can help therapists better understand protection, shame, and responses often mislabeled as resistance Many neurodivergent clients carry trauma tied to masking, chronic correction, and social rejection Full show notes and transcript: https://mtsgpodcast.com Join our community Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Podcast Homepage: https://mtsgpodcast.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

When Clients Reject Your Diagnosis: How to Handle Pushback Without Losing the Therapeutic Alliance What do you do when your client doesn't agree with your diagnosis? Whether it's a parent resisting an autism or ADHD diagnosis, a client attached to a different label, or someone overwhelmed by what a diagnosis means for their identity, these conversations can feel high-stakes. In this episode, Curt and Katie explore why clients push back on diagnoses and how to navigate these conversations without damaging the therapeutic relationship. They break down the role of stigma, identity, and real-world consequences, and offer practical strategies for staying collaborative while still doing effective clinical work. Key Takeaways: Why clients resist diagnoses (stigma, identity, and real-world impact) How to respond without arguing or damaging the alliance When disagreement means your assessment isn't finished How to focus on function and treatment instead of labels Navigating documentation, insurance, and cultural considerations Get the full show notes and resources at mtsgpodcast.com. Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

The Lasting Harm of Conversion Therapy: An Interview with Samuel Nieves This interview was recorded in November 2025 in anticipation of the Supreme Court ruling in Chiles v. Salazar and released afterward. Rather than focusing on the legal details of the decision, Curt and Katie talk with Samuel Nieves about the harms of conversion therapy, how change efforts can be disguised as therapy, and what clinicians need to understand when working with survivors. Sam shares from his lived experience as a survivor and explains why the deepest harms often involve identity damage, loss of self-trust, and disconnection from one's own lived experience. About our guest:Sam Nieves has a Bachelor's in Psychology. In 2019, he entered grad school to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, but left the field after 6 months of clinical experience. Since 2020, Sam has used his personal, clinical, and educational background to support survivors of conversion therapy. He is now a board member of the non-profit organization Conversion Therapy Survivor Network. Sam uses the online name “CantPrayMeAway” to share his own experiences as a client of conversion therapy and advocates for the end of all conversion practices worldwide. Key takeaways: Conversion therapy is broader than many therapists realize and can show up in subtle, disguised forms SOGIECE (sexual orientation and gender identity or expression change efforts) offers a clearer framework for recognizing sexual orientation and gender identity or expression change efforts The core harm of conversion therapy is often identity damage and loss of self-trust Even well-intentioned therapeutic tools can become retraumatizing when they are used in the service of changing identity Survivors may need therapists to move slowly, stay client-centered, and understand that therapy itself may have been part of the harm Full show notes and transcript: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

The Private Practice Pivot: How Therapists Are Adapting to Platforms, Agency Work, and the Changing Therapy Economy Are therapists leaving private practice - or simply adapting to a changing mental health economy? Curt Widhalm, LMFT, and Katie Vernoy, LMFT discuss a growing shift across the profession as therapists pivot between private practice, agency jobs, group practices, and therapy platforms. As referral patterns change, venture-backed platforms grow, and the economics of therapy evolve, many clinicians are reconsidering how they structure their careers. Curt and Katie explore why therapists are pivoting their practices, how platforms like Headway, Alma, and Rula are shaping the field, and what therapists can do to build sustainable careers in a rapidly changing environment. Key Takeaways • Why many therapists are pivoting their private practices • How therapy platforms and venture capital are reshaping the profession • The role of agency work, group practices, and hybrid careers • Why isolation can undermine sustainability in solo practice • How therapists can design careers that prioritize stability Full show notes and resources: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCannhttps://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Manganohttps://groomsymusic.com/

Is Independent Private Practice Sustainable? Data on Caseloads, Insurance & Income Is independent private practice still financially sustainable? Curt and Katie sit down with Lindsay Oberleitner, PhD, Director of Clinical Strategy at SimplePractice, to examine national data on caseload trends, insurance participation, income realities, and therapist burnout. Drawing from Lindsay's research at SimplePractice, they explore whether independent private practice is truly viable long term - and what clinicians need to understand to remain financially and professionally sustainable. In this episode, we discuss: • Why some clinicians are seeing declining caseloads despite high demand for mental health care • Typical full-time caseload ranges in independent private practice • How insurance participation is shifting year over year • The financial impact of reimbursement rates and overhead costs • Why burnout is both a personal and systemic issue • The significant role independent private practice plays in delivering outpatient behavioral health care across the United States Independent private practice represents an estimated 15–20% of outpatient behavioral health services. This episode helps therapists think strategically about income, sustainability, visibility, and long-term viability in today's healthcare landscape. For full show notes and resources, visit mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community: • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast • Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined • Podcast Homepage: https://therapyreimagined.com/modern-therapists-survival-guide-podcast-episodes/ Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCannhttps://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Manganohttps://groomsymusic.com/

Why You're Exhausted in Private Practice: The Hidden Work Behind the Client Hour Exhausted in private practice - even with a “manageable” caseload? Seeing 20-25 clients a week does not mean you're working 20-25 hours. Every client hour includes hidden administrative work, financial decisions, emotional labor, and CEO-level responsibility. In this host-led episode, Curt and Katie break down why private practice feels heavier than expected - and how to think strategically about the real math behind your workload. Key Takeaways: • 20 client hours often equals 30+ hours of actual work • Emotional task-switching drains capacity • Burnout often comes from business demands, not just clients • Sustainable practice requires protected CEO time and clear boundaries Full show notes and resources: https://mtsgpodcast.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: https://groomsymusic.com/

Burnout Recovery in a Failing System – An Interview with Shaina Siber, LCSW Therapists are navigating hiring freezes, wage stagnation, insurance instability, identity-level threats, and mounting systemic uncertainty — all while supporting clients experiencing the same instability. What happens when burnout isn't just about workload, but about working inside a system that feels like it's failing? Curt and Katie talk with Shaina Siber, LCSW, about moral injury, burnout as a fawning trauma response, and how therapists can move from control strategies to agency using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT). Shaina shares how psychological flexibility, compassionate prioritization, and values-based action can help therapists recover from burnout without abandoning their humanity. In this episode, we discuss: • Burnout as a trauma response • Moral injury in modern mental health care • The “K-shaped” labor market and therapist stagnation • Moving from overcontrol to agency • Sustainable contribution without collapsing Guest Bio: Shaina Siber, LCSW is the founder of Affirm Mental Health, host of The Affirming Minds Podcast, and author of the forthcoming Routledge book Using ACT and CFT for Burnout Recovery: The Beyond Burnout Blueprint (available for pre-order February 25, 2026). She brings over 15 years of clinical and leadership experience and specializes in trauma-informed, LGBTQ+, and culturally responsive care. Full show notes and resources: mtsgpodcast.com Join our community: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

Should Texas Therapists Stop Treating Kids? Texas SB14, Gender-Affirming Care, and the Risks for Therapists In this episode of the Modern Therapist's Survival Guide, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy discuss a new interpretation of Texas SB14 that may place therapists at risk for providing gender-affirming care to trans youth. They explore how a recent opinion from the Texas Attorney General could broaden the law's reach beyond medical providers to include mental health professionals. Curt and Katie break down what this interpretation could mean for therapists working with minors, including possible risks related to licensure, malpractice coverage, mandated reporting, and criminal liability. They also discuss the ethical tension between evidence-based care and compliance with state law, and the difficult decisions clinicians may face when considering whether to continue working with kids. Key Takeaways: A new interpretation of Texas SB14 may include mental health professionals as part of the “healthcare pipeline” facilitating gender transition for minors. The legal term “facilitating” could potentially include referrals, letters, or even supportive therapy conversations. Therapists may face risks related to licensure complaints, malpractice coverage exclusions, or legal consequences if their care is interpreted as supporting gender transition. Mandated child abuse reporting requirements could create additional legal and ethical concerns. Clinicians may need to assess their personal risk tolerance when deciding whether to continue working with minors. Full show notes and additional resources will be available at:mtsgpodcast.com Join our community: Modern Therapists Group (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimaginedLink Tree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCannhttps://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Manganohttps://groomsymusic.com/

The Licensing Racket: Therapist Licensing, Discipline, and Access to Care – An Interview with Rebecca Haw Allensworth Who does licensing protect - the public or the profession? Curt and Katie talk with Rebecca Haw Allensworth, law professor and author of The Licensing Racket, about how professional licensing boards actually function, and what that means for therapists, discipline, and access to care. After attending licensing board meetings across professions and states, Rebecca identified a troubling pattern: entry requirements that continually “ratchet up,” while discipline decisions can lean toward giving professionals the benefit of the doubt. The result? Higher barriers to entry, workforce shortages, and inconsistent public protection. This episode explores therapist licensing reform, self-regulation, professional turf wars, board funding structures, and the tension between prestige, professional identity, and public safety. About Our Guest:Rebecca Haw Allensworth is the David Daniels Allen Professor of Law at Vanderbilt Law School and author of The Licensing Racket: How We Decide Who Is Allowed to Work and Why It Goes Wrong. Her research focuses on antitrust and professional licensing and has been cited by the U.S. Supreme Court. Key Takeaways: • Why licensing requirements tend to increase over time • How self-regulation can create blind spots in discipline • The impact of licensing barriers on workforce shortages and access to care • Why complaints about unlicensed practice may be prioritized over client complaints • How professional identity and funding structures shape board decisions Full show notes and resources: mtsgpodcast.com Join our community: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Training Therapists in the Age of AI: Preventing Deskilling and Teaching Clinical Judgment As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in mental health care, therapists, supervisors, and educators face a critical responsibility: integrating AI tools without eroding clinical judgment, reasoning, and skill development. In this continuing education episode of the Modern Therapist's Survival Guide, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy examine how AI can create the illusion of competence while quietly undermining the processes therapists rely on to learn how to think clinically. They explore therapist deskilling as a systemic issue shaped by training models, supervision practices, and productivity pressures rather than individual failure. This episode focuses on how supervisors, educators, and clinicians can preserve clinical mastery while using AI responsibly, emphasizing learning science, supervision ethics, and the importance of maintaining human judgment in an automated world. In this episode, we discuss: How AI can mask gaps in clinical reasoning The competence paradox and automation bias in therapy Why struggle and ambiguity are essential for learning The role of supervisors and educators in preventing deskilling How to use AI without outsourcing clinical judgment Continuing Education: This episode is eligible for 1 unit of continuing education (CE). To earn CE credit, go to moderntherapistcommunity.com, register for a free profile, purchase the course, complete the post-test and evaluation, and download your certificate. Full show notes, transcript, and course details are available at mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Podcast Home: https://mtsgpodcast.com Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCannhttps://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Manganohttps://groomsymusic.com/

Why Food Anxiety Is Not Always About Dieting: Understanding ARFID and Intuitive Eating - An interview with Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C Diet culture often dominates conversations about eating disorders, but not all struggles with food are driven by weight, body image, or dieting. In this episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk with registered dietitian nutritionist and certified eating disorder specialist Robyn L. Goldberg about Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), intuitive eating, and how therapists can recognize when food anxiety requires a different clinical approach. Robyn explains how ARFID differs from more familiar eating disorders, why it is often mislabeled as “picky eating,” and when intuitive eating principles need to be adapted or set aside. This conversation offers therapists practical guidance for assessment, referral, and collaboration with eating-disorder-informed dietitians. Key Takeaways ARFID is not driven by weight or body image concerns and is often rooted in sensory sensitivities, trauma, or fear of aversive consequences Intuitive eating is not a one-size-fits-all model and may require significant structure for some clients Rigid food rules and avoidance can be protective for clients but may also limit functioning and quality of life Exposure-based approaches are often central to ARFID treatment and require specialized training Therapists should refer to eating-disorder-informed dietitians when food restriction significantly impacts health or daily life Guest Bio Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C, is a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified eating disorder dietitian and consultant with over twenty-eight years of experience. She is the author of The Eating Disorder Trap, host of The Eating Disorder Trap Podcast, and a nationally recognized expert featured in major media outlets. Full Show NotesRead the full show notes and resources at: https://www.mtsgpodcast.com Community and SupportJoin our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimaginedSupport the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voiceover by DW McCannhttps://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Manganohttps://groomsymusic.com/

The Epstein Files Fallout: Navigating Client Trauma, Justice Fatigue, and Clinical Responsibility In this episode of the Modern Therapist's Survival Guide, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy explore the emotional and clinical fallout following the release of the Epstein files. Rather than reacting to breaking news, they focus on what happens after the headlines fade—when trauma resurfaces, justice feels out of reach, and both clients and therapists are left carrying the weight. This conversation examines how trauma responses show up in the therapy room, how therapists can avoid minimization or burnout, and what clinical responsibility looks like when systems fail and outrage turns into numbness. Key takeaways for therapists: How public disclosures can retraumatize survivors and trigger moral injury Why clients may experience numbness, irritability, or hopelessness instead of anger How to ethically hold space without rushing clients toward resolution Ways therapists can manage their own exposure and remain grounded The importance of containment, validation, and agency during collective trauma Full show notes and resources available at:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCannhttps://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Manganohttps://groomsymusic.com/

Why the Math Doesn't Work: How Student Loan Debt Hits Therapists Harder Than Other Professions – An Interview with Mick MacLaverty Student loan debt affects nearly every corner of the mental health field, but for therapists, the numbers often don't add up. In this episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk with student loan expert Mick MacLaverty about why therapists carry disproportionately high debt, how inconsistent income makes repayment especially difficult, and the structural factors in higher education and healthcare that created this imbalance. Mick explains how federal student loan policies have evolved, why forgiveness programs have become politically volatile, and what therapists need to understand about repayment options, refinancing, and employer-based student loan benefits. This conversation offers clarity on an issue that directly impacts career sustainability, burnout, and long-term financial health. About the guest:Mick MacLaverty is the CEO and co-founder of Highway Benefits, a company that helps employers offer student loan repayment as a benefit. He has spent thousands of hours researching the student debt crisis and works closely with healthcare and therapy-adjacent organizations to help employees reduce long-term loan burden. Key takeaways for therapists: Therapists often graduate with significantly more student loan debt than the average worker. Income instability makes consistent monthly repayment especially challenging. Student loan debt is driven by structural issues in education and healthcare, not individual failure. Federal loan policies and forgiveness programs can be confusing and politically driven. Employer-based student loan repayment benefits can meaningfully reduce debt and interest over time. Full show notes and transcript:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the community: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Starting Out After Graduate School: Team-Based Care, Stability, and Early Career Decisions - An Interview with Eden LathemSpecial Series: Becoming a Therapist In this Becoming a Therapist special series episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy welcome back Eden Lathem for a second-year check-in following her graduation from graduate school. Now working under temporary licensure, Eden shares what it has been like to enter the workforce in an intensive outpatient treatment setting, navigate supervision requirements, and make early career decisions focused on stability, learning, and sustainability. This conversation explores the realities of life after graduate school, including team-based care, financial considerations, and flexibility in building a therapy career. About the GuestEden Lathem is a Marriage and Family Therapist practicing under temporary licensure and working in an intensive outpatient treatment setting. She provides individual and group therapy as part of a multidisciplinary clinical team and works with individuals and families navigating caregiving stress, disability, trauma, anxiety, depression, identity shifts, and major life transitions. Eden is also completing training in Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based approach that uses live coaching and play to support parent-child connection. Key Takeaways • What the transition from graduate school to the workforce can actually look like • Why team-based treatment settings can offer stability and support early in a career • The financial and structural realities of supervision and licensure • How early career clinicians can stay flexible while working toward long-term goals • Choosing learning and sustainability over rushing into private practice Find the full show notes and resources for this episode at https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Becoming a Therapist as a First-Generation Clinician-in-Training: An Interview with Marvin Vasquez Special Series: Becoming a Therapist In this Becoming a Therapist special series episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy welcome back Marvin Vasquez for a second-year check-in as he moves into the clinical phase of his training. Marvin reflects on beginning direct client work as a first-generation clinician-in-training, providing therapy in both English and Spanish, and supporting members of his own community during a time of heightened systemic stress. This conversation explores practicum placement, supervision, self-doubt, and the emotional realities of becoming a therapist while holding personal, cultural, and professional identities at the same time. About the Guest Marvin Vasquez is a first-generation Marriage and Family Therapy graduate student at California State University, Northridge. He is currently completing his clinical training as an intern at Phoenix House, where he works with individuals and families impacted by mental health challenges and systemic barriers, with a focus on Latinx communities. Marvin provides bilingual therapy in English and Spanish and is committed to culturally responsive, strengths-based care and community advocacy. Key Takeaways • What it's like to move from coursework into direct clinical work as a first-generation clinician • The emotional impact of serving your own community while still in training • How supportive supervision helps reduce self-doubt and “flailing” early in practice • Why bilingual and culturally responsive care can deepen trust and engagement • Navigating systemic stressors while developing confidence as a new therapist Find the full show notes and resources for this episode at https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

After Graduation: Starting a Therapy Career on a Nontraditional Path - An Interview with Derek Isetti In this Becoming a Therapist special series episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy check back in with Derek Isetti one year after his first appearance on the podcast. Now graduated from his MSW program, Derek reflects on the prelicensed phase of the journey, including navigating post-graduation registration requirements, taking the Law and Ethics Exam, and searching for supervised clinical work while maintaining a full-time academic career. This conversation explores what it really looks like to start a therapy career on a nontraditional timeline and path. About the Guest Derek Isetti, MSW, PhD, CCC-SLP is an Associate Professor at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. With a background in the performing arts, Derek is both a speech-language pathologist and a social worker pursuing licensure as a psychotherapist. His professional work spans academia, healthcare, and clinical training, offering a unique perspective on early-career development and prelicensed practice. Key Takeaways • What the prelicensed phase looks like after graduating from a master's program • Common challenges with registration, exams, and supervision requirements • Searching for supervised clinical work on a part-time or nontraditional timeline • Balancing another professional career while accumulating hours toward licensure • Why supervision quality and fit matter during the early stages of practice Find the full show notes and resources for this episode at https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

From Corporate Leadership to Counseling Advocacy: An Interview with Iris Wilson-Farley Special Series: Becoming a Therapist In this special Becoming a Therapist series episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy welcome back Iris Wilson-Farley for a second-year check-in on her journey through graduate school. Iris reflects on how her expectations of training have shifted, what the internship search was really like in an online program, and how she's preparing to move into primarily in-person clinical work. She also shares how her background in corporate leadership informs her approach to professional development, advocacy, and research, with a growing focus on sexual wellness and gender-affirming care. About the Guest Iris Wilson-Farley is a second-career counselor-in-training and graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Chicago School. After a 33-year career in corporate Human Resources and executive leadership, Iris is now focused on sexual wellness, gender-affirming care, and advocacy within the counseling profession. She is actively involved in professional organizations including ACA divisions focused on sexology and LGBTQIA+ identities and is working toward sex therapist certification through the Sexual Health Alliance. Key Takeaways How expectations often shift between the first and second year of graduate training What the internship search can look like in online counseling programs Preparing to transition from virtual learning to in-person clinical work How prior professional experience can shape identity and leadership in training The value of early involvement in advocacy, research, and professional organizations You can listen to Iris's first interview in the Becoming a Therapist series here:https://therapyreimagined.com/modern-therapist-podcast/finding-alignment-in-a-second-career-special-series-becoming-a-therapist-an-interview-with-iris-wilson-farley/ Find the full show notes and resources for this episode at:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

When Does Therapy Really Start? Managing Risk and Responsibility Before the First Session When does therapy actually begin—and when does therapist responsibility start? Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy explore the ethical, legal, and clinical risks that can arise before the first session ever happens, and what therapists can do to protect both their clients and themselves. In this host-led episode, they break down common scenarios involving consultation calls, intake paperwork, crisis disclosures, collateral contacts, and missed first appointments. They offer practical guidance for clarifying client status, setting boundaries early, and reducing risk at the very start of care. Key Takeaways for Therapists Therapy can begin earlier than many clinicians expect Agreeing to treatment may create responsibility even before the first session Intake paperwork disclosures can require timely follow-up Clear communication about availability and crisis procedures reduces risk Collateral contacts are not clients unless explicitly defined as part of treatment Follow-up and documentation matter, even when therapy never fully begins Read the complete show notes and resources for this episode at:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over: DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music: Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

When Therapy Goes Vibe-Forward: The Cost of Losing Clinical Depth An Interview with TJ Walsh, LPC When therapy becomes more about relatability and “vibes” than clinical depth, what gets lost? Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk with TJ Walsh, LPC about how social media culture is shaping therapy expectations, why neutrality and containment still matter, and how supervision and self-work support real therapeutic change. This episode challenges therapists to balance authenticity with professionalism and to clearly orient clients to the slower, relational work that meaningful therapy requires. Key Takeaways for Therapists Why vibe-forward therapy can feel supportive but limit long-term change How neutrality functions as containment, not disengagement The difference between validation and treatment How social media shapes client expectations of therapy Why supervision should continue well beyond licensure Full Show Notes & Transcript: https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Creative Credits Voice Over: DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music: Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

REPLAY: Working With Politically Divided Families with Angela Caldwell, LMFT In this Reprise episode, Curt and Katie revisit their timely conversation with Angela Caldwell, LMFT on working with politically divided families. This episode explores family systems, differentiation, distress tolerance, and therapeutic neutrality when political conflict enters the therapy room. Angela offers a hopeful, clinically grounded framework for helping families tolerate opposing viewpoints, stay in relationship, and navigate discomfort without forcing agreement, making this episode especially relevant during election cycles and holiday family gatherings. You can see the original show notes and transcripts for episode 375 here: https://therapyreimagined.com/modern-therapist-podcast/how-can-therapists-help-politically-divided-families-an-interview-with-angela-caldwell-lmft/

Replay Episode: Therapy As a Political Act with Dr. Travis Heath In this reprise episode, Curt and Katie revisit their powerful conversation with Dr. Travis Heath on why therapy is inherently a political act. Originally recorded in June 2020, just days after the murder of George Floyd, this episode examines how therapists navigate racism, systems of oppression, political overwhelm, and community trauma in the therapy room. Curt and Katie reflect on how the cultural landscape has shifted over the past five years, why Travis's insights still resonate, and what therapists must continue doing to stay engaged in anti racist, decolonizing, and community centered work. You can see the original show notes and transcripts for episode 158 here: https://therapyreimagined.com/modern-therapist-podcast/therapy-as-a-political-act/

How Therapists Can Actually Rest During the Holidays: Letting Go of Guilt, Productivity, and Instagram-Worthy Expectations Curt and Katie explore how therapists can create a real holiday break - not a performative or productivity-driven one. They discuss the pressure to rest “perfectly,” the guilt of not fully unplugging, how to shift into restorative downtime, and why passive vs. active rest matters. They also highlight anxiety, money scarcity, grief, and family dynamics that often intensify during the season, offering compassionate strategies for caring for yourself as a therapist and a human. Key Takeaways for Therapists You don't need an Instagram-worthy vacation: real rest is allowed. Rest is a process, not a switch; transition time matters. It's okay to be partially off and still check in lightly as needed. Passive rest (scrolling) and active rest (movement, nature, connection) serve different purposes. Anxiety, scarcity mindset, or family stress may drive overworking—notice the “why.” The holidays can be hard; grief and emotional complexity deserve compassion. Full show notes at: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann — https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano — https://groomsymusic.com/

When Good Intentions Lead to Bad Policy: Why the BBS Needs Therapist Feedback – An Interview with Dr. Benjamin E. Caldwell, LMFT Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Benjamin E. Caldwell about the California BBS's new regulatory proposals and why several well-intended ideas may actually undermine therapist education and professional standards. We discuss the proposal to award CE hours simply for providing supervision, giving CE credit for passive activities, concerns about codifying the licensing exam vendor, and the surprising reason behind the upcoming four-year fee reduction. Ben breaks down what therapists need to know—and how to make their voices heard during the public comment period. About Our Guest: Dr. Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD, LMFT Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Adjunct Faculty for California State University Northridge. He is the author of Basics of California Law for LMFTs, LPCCs, and LCSWs and the lead author of AAMFT's Best Practices in the Online Practice of Couple and Family Therapy. His company, High Pass Education, provides exam prep and continuing education for mental health professionals. Key Takeaways for Therapists • Why the BBS's proposed changes matter for therapists in and beyond California • Concerns about awarding CE for providing supervision instead of structured learning • How CE requirements may shift toward passive or non-educational activities • Issues with naming Pearson VUE in regulation • Why BBS fees will be reduced for four years • How therapists can participate in the public comment period to influence policy Full show notes and transcript available at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

How Therapists Can Help Clients Finally Sleep: An Interview with Jessica Fink, LCSW-S Curt and Katie interview sleep specialist Jessica Fink, LCSW-S, about what therapists often misunderstand about sleep—and what actually helps when clients are stuck in cycles of insomnia, nighttime anxiety, or maladaptive sleep behaviors. Jessica breaks down the limits of sleep hygiene, the fundamentals of CBT-I, what to do when clients wake up at 3 a.m. spiraling, how to distinguish tired vs. sleepy, and why wearables and blue light might be overrated concerns. She also shares how therapists can confidently assess sleep disorders and support behavioral sleep change without overmedicalizing the issue. About Our Guest: Jessica Fink, LCSW-S Jessica Fink, LCSW-S is a Texas-based therapist who specializes in sleep issues, PTSD, OCD, chronic pain and maladaptive overcontrol. As a CBT-oriented provider, Jessica uses structured, data-driven approaches combined with flexibility and creativity to create real, lasting change. Jessica values client independence, designing therapy to equip individuals with their own tools and coping strategies. Jessica's practice is entirely online and accessible to all Texas residents. Key Takeaways for Therapists Sleep hygiene is prevention—not treatment for insomnia. CBT-I is counterintuitive: don't go to bed until sleepy, and get out of bed if awake too long. A consistent wake time matters more than bedtime. Blue light isn't the enemy most people think it is. Wearables can increase anxiety and worsen sleep perfectionism (“orthosomnia”). Therapists play a crucial role even in medically driven sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Scheduled “constructive worry” times can reduce nighttime rumination. Full show notes and transcript available at:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/ Voiceover by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Navigating Client Crises When Your Own Life Hits Hard Curt and Katie talk about what therapists can do when client crises show up at the exact wrong time—during holidays, illness, personal stress, or overwhelming seasons of life. They explore capacity, boundaries, communication, safety planning, and how to ethically support clients without becoming a 24/7 crisis line. This is a practical, validating look at the realities therapists face when their own lives get complicated. Key Takeaways Therapists can assess capacity and complete a “busyness audit” to stay realistic about bandwidth. Clear communication about availability helps prevent crisis-time misunderstandings. Clients benefit from learning how to reach out with context so you can triage effectively. Safety plans and community resources reduce client over-reliance on the therapist. Therapists can hold boundaries while still supporting clients through crisis moments. Full show notes and transcript are available at mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

When Crisis Hits Home: How Therapists Can Survive and Support Each Other — An Interview with Jeanine Rousso Curt and Katie chat with Jeanine Rousso, a licensed counselor and supervisor in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina and founder of Therapist Resource Network, about how therapists can care for themselves when natural disasters or crises directly impact them. They discuss why therapists often push past their limits, how to assess capacity and step back ethically, and the importance of financial preparedness and peer support. About Our Guest:Jeanine Rousso is a licensed counselor and supervisor in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. She founded the nonprofit organization Therapist Resource Network to provide emergency financial support, burnout prevention and recovery, and advocacy for mental health professionals. Key Takeaways for Therapists: Therapists often try to maintain pre-crisis workloads after disasters, leading to burnout. It's essential to check your own capacity before showing up for clients. Build financial documentation and savings as a personal safety net. Disaster recovery requires both individual resilience and systemic advocacy. Full Show Notes: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:Linktree | Patreon | Facebook Group Credits:Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano | Voiceover by DW McCann

Surviving Family Gatherings Without Becoming the Family Therapist: Emotional Boundaries for the Holidays Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy explore how therapists can navigate family gatherings without slipping into the role of “family therapist.” They discuss emotional boundaries, guilt, codependency, and the importance of authenticity during the holiday season. Learn how to recognize old family patterns, manage emotional triggers, and show up as a whole human (not just a clinician) when family dynamics get complicated. Key Takeaways for Therapists: Therapists often revert to caretaker or mediator roles during family gatherings. Emotional boundaries matter as much as physical ones: protect your energy. “JADE” doesn't go to Thanksgiving: Don't Justify, Argue, Defend, or Explain. It's okay to have emotions and step away from unproductive conversations. Clarify your role (family member, not therapist) and engage authentically. Listen to the full episode and access resources:Full show notes at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Patreon Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Designing a Sustainable Therapy Career: Reflections on Burnout, Legacy, and Letting Go Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy reflect on what it takes to build and sustain a meaningful therapy career and how to leave the profession well. They explore professional identity, burnout, and how to stay connected to the work without losing yourself in it. Drawing from recent interviews with Lynn Grodzki, Margaret Wehrenberg, and Ofra Obejas, they share insights on sustainability, capacity, and creating a “good finish” for your therapy career. Key Takeaways for Therapists: Therapists need intentional career design. Sustainability doesn't happen by accident. Burnout can distort your love for the work and your professional identity. Regular reflection helps ensure your career still aligns with your values and capacity. Building community and connection is essential to avoiding isolation in private practice. Planning early for closure allows for a more graceful and fulfilling finish. Link to Full Show Notes:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

When Burnout Ends Your Therapy Career: An Interview with Ofra Obejas Curt and Katie speak with Ofra Obejas, LCSW (Retired), about what happens when even the most dedicated therapists reach their limits. After 20 years in practice, Ofra recognized she could no longer sustain the emotional and systemic demands of the work and chose to close her practice with integrity. She shares what burnout really looks like, how unrealistic professional expectations fuel it, and what therapists can do to protect themselves before it's too late. About Our Guest: Ofra Obejas, LCSW (Retired) Ofra Obejas, LCSW Retired, has just closed her practice after 20 years and many letters after her name. Over her career, she provided individual and group therapy to thousands, was on the faculty of a university therapy training program, and presented CEs to hundreds. Despite this clear proof of her expertise, she feels like a failure, a fate she wishes to save newer therapists from. Key Takeaways for Therapists Burnout isn't a personal weakness—it's a mismatch between what therapy demands and what clinicians can sustainably give. “Self-care” can't fix systemic overload or chronic emotional depletion. Therapists must honor their own limits and values to avoid running out of gas. Leaving the field can be an act of integrity, not failure. Listen to the full conversation and find resources at: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

How Therapists Retire: Planning, Ethics, and Letting Go of the Work You Love – An Interview with Lynn Grodzki, LCSW and Margaret Wehrenberg, PsyD Curt and Katie talk with Lynn Grodzki and Margaret Wehrenberg about how therapists can plan for retirement with intention and integrity. They explore the emotional, ethical, and practical considerations of closing a practice, navigating readiness, and redefining identity after a lifetime of therapeutic work. About Our Guests Lynn Grodzki, LCSW-C, MCC is a pioneer in private practice development and the author of six influential books on therapy and coaching.Margaret Wehrenberg, Psy.D. is an internationally recognized expert on anxiety and depression and the author of 13 books, including The 10 Best-Ever Anxiety Management Techniques. Together, they offer a rare blend of clinical experience, practical strategies, and heartfelt compassion. Key Takeaways for Therapists Retirement is one of the most consequential transitions in a therapist's professional life. Lynn and Margaret's Readiness for Retirement Model helps therapists plan across four stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, and action. Planning early supports ethical closure and a smoother emotional process for both therapist and client. Common barriers include guilt, grief, and identity shifts—as well as lack of business or financial planning. Creating a professional will and protecting intellectual property are essential parts of ending well. Therapists can honor their legacy by recognizing the lasting impact of their work and embracing new opportunities in retirement. For more information and full show notes Visit: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Modern Therapist's Consumer Guide: SimplePractice Curt and Katie talk with Jonathan Seltzer, CEO of SimplePractice, about how the company continues to evolve to meet the needs of independent mental health professionals. They discuss SimplePractice's mission to empower clinicians with intuitive tools, transparency around investors, and the responsible use of AI to reduce administrative burdens while maintaining clinical integrity. This episode is part of our Modern Therapist's Consumer Guide series, where we explore tools and services that help therapists and their clients thrive. Guest Bio Jonathan Seltzer is the CEO of SimplePractice, a software platform built to empower private practice clinicians to run thriving, independent practices. He leads a team of over 550 people supporting more than 225,000 clinicians who use SimplePractice to provide care. Jonathan is passionate about helping therapists operate with greater confidence, ease, and connection to the broader healthcare ecosystem. Key Takeaways SimplePractice remains focused on empowering independent and small-group clinicians. The company prioritizes transparency and clinician trust in how it handles data, investment, and innovation. AI tools are designed to **augment—not replace—**therapists, with high clinical and ethical standards.

Protecting Clients Through Better Notes: An Interview with Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk with Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey about how therapists can document ethically and protectively in a politically charged climate. They explore how to handle sensitive topics like gender identity, reproductive rights, and immigration status while keeping documentation accurate, ethical, and safe for clients. About Our Guest Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey is a licensed psychologist, nail design enthusiast, and author of the book, Stress-Free Documentation for Mental Health Therapists. Through her business QA Prep, she empowers therapists with training and consultation on clinical documentation. Maelisa focuses on the “why” behind the usual recommendations and encourages clinicians to think outside the box, while also keeping their ethics intact. Key Takeaways for Therapists Documentation can carry legal and ethical risks in today's climate. Use clear but sensitive language when writing notes. Informed consent and collaboration with clients are essential. Focus on clinical themes rather than politically charged terms. Review your own forms and practices for unnecessary information. More Info and Full Show Notes Visit mtsgpodcast.com for the full show notes, transcripts, and resources from this episode. Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCannMusic by Crystal Grooms Mangano

How Conscious Awareness Shapes Leadership, Therapy, and Collective Healing: An Interview with Pardis Mahdavi, PhD Curt and Katie chat with Pardis Mahdavi, PhD, about how consciousness and intentional awareness can transform therapy, leadership, and community. Pardis shares how cultivating our “inner state," moving from suffering to a “beautiful state,” impacts how we lead, connect, and heal collectively. She offers practical ways therapists can integrate mindfulness, breath mastery, and curiosity into their work to help clients (and themselves) live with greater awareness and alignment. About Our Guest:Pardis Mahdavi, PhD is an author, educator, and entrepreneur. She has written seven non-fiction books and two edited volumes, including Book of Queens (2023) and Riding (2024). A former university president and global human rights expert, Pardis now leads Entheon Journeys, focusing on consciousness, leadership, and transformation. Her work has been featured in Time, Ms. Magazine, Huffington Post, and the Los Angeles Times. Key Takeaways: Consciousness work deepens mindfulness into an ongoing framework for intentional living and healing. Therapists can help clients identify and shift their inner “state” from suffering toward beauty, calm, and connection. Preventive practices such as meditation, journaling, and breath mastery support long-term wellbeing and resilience. Leadership and therapy are energetic processes: awareness of one's own state affects how others experience us. Community healing grows when curiosity replaces critique and connection transcends identity barriers. More Info & Full Show Notes:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

The Crisis in College Mental Health: An Interview with Dr. Pardis Mahdavi, PhD Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk with Dr. Pardis Mahdavi about the growing mental-health crisis among college students. Pardis shares insights from her years in higher education leadership—revealing how rising costs, outdated systems, and lack of purpose are driving student anxiety and burnout. Together they explore what therapists, universities, and communities can do to realign education with meaning, wellbeing, and real-world readiness. About Our Guest: Dr. Pardis Mahdavi, Ph.D. Pardis Mahdavi is an author, educator, and entrepreneur whose work spans human rights, education policy, and consciousness. A former university president and provost, she is the author of seven nonfiction books including The Book of Queens (Hachette Books, 2023) and Riding (Duke University Press, 2024). She currently leads Entheon Journeys and The Bondery House, fostering connection and expanded awareness. Key Takeaways for Therapists College students face unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression—driven by systemic disconnection, financial stress, and unclear purpose. Higher education often fails to evolve with societal change, leaving students feeling unprepared and unseen. Preventive supports like mindfulness and mentorship should be built into the college experience. Therapists can help students find meaning, manage uncertainty, and advocate for collaborative care across campus systems. Full show notes: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Our Linktree Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Medical Necessity or Personal Growth? Why Documentation Matters in Therapy Curt and Katie talk about medical necessity in therapy documentation – what it is, why it matters, and how therapists can navigate the tension between clinical care, insurance requirements, and personal growth. We explore how documentation protects therapists in utilization reviews and disciplinary processes, and how to ethically distinguish therapy from coaching or self-improvement. Key Takeaways for Therapists Why documenting medical necessity matters for insurance, ethics, and liability Risks of over-diagnosing or misrepresenting symptoms The role of treatment plans and progress notes in demonstrating medical necessity Navigating personal growth requests vs. clinical therapy Protecting yourself with clear, consistent documentation About Our Hosts Curt Widhalm, LMFT – www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy, LMFT – www.katievernoy.com Find the transcript and additional resources at mtsgpodcast.com. Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Beyond Coping: Radical Healing in a World Not Built for Us – An Interview with José Rosario Curt and Katie chat with José Rosario about radical healing, disability, cultural trauma, and intersectionality. José shares his story as a scholar, practitioner, and activist, and how his lived experience as a disabled person of color who is also queer informs both his clinical work and research. He discusses how healing must move beyond coping, the importance of community engagement, and how therapists can better support clients with marginalized identities. About Our Guest: José Rosario Born to young Puerto Rican parents, José Rosario developed Cerebral Palsy as a premature baby. His family's journey towards equity deeply impacted his mental health. Currently nearing his PhD in Clinical Psychology, his research focuses on cultural trauma in intersectional communities. He is an Interdisciplinary Minority Fellow for the American Psychological Association, member of the Congressional Diversity and Equality Advisory Board for Congressman James Langevin, and member of the Rhode Island Attorney General Community Advisory Board. He has been honored with the Chris Martin Humanitarian Award and the Victoria Lederberg Award for Excellence in Psychology. Key Takeaways for Therapists Radical healing means moving beyond coping to systemic change and community-based healing. Disability, race, and queerness intersect in ways that compound stigma and systemic barriers. Community is both a source of hope and a vital element of healing. Therapists must step outside the therapy room and engage genuinely with the communities they serve. For full show notes and transcripts, visit: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Navigating Food, Body Image, and GLP-1 Medications: An Interview with Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C Therapists are seeing more clients struggling with confusing medical advice, new medications, and diet culture messages that impact their relationship with food and body. In this conversation, Curt and Katie talk with Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C about how therapists can examine their own biases, support clients navigating restrictive medical guidance, and encourage healthier, more intuitive approaches to eating. About Our Guest: Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C Robyn began her career at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles as the in-patient dietitian in the Department of Cardiology. Over the last twenty-eight years she has developed her own private practice in Los Angeles, CA. She is a contributing author and is a nationally and internationally known registered dietitian nutritionist. She has been quoted in The New York Times, The Huffington Post, and Vogue. She has been on national television as the eating disorder expert on The Insider. Robyn is the author of The Eating Disorder Trap: A Guide for Clinicians and Loved Ones, Co-author of the online course Your Recovery Resource, and the host of The Eating Disorder Trap Podcast. Key Takeaways for Therapists Therapists must examine their own food and body biases to avoid unintentional harm to clients. Many physicians have minimal training in dietetics and may give inadequate advice. Clients can advocate for themselves in medical settings, including refusing to be weighed. GLP-1 medications may reduce appetite but can cause malnutrition, fatigue, and bone/muscle loss. Intuitive eating offers a path back to a healthier, more trusting relationship with food. For full show notes and transcript: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Somatic Therapy, Nervous System Regulation, and Expanding Capacity for Rest: An Interview with Linda Thai Curt and Katie chat with Linda Thai, LMSW, ERYT-200 about practical, culturally aware somatic tools therapists can use, helping clients (and themselves) expand capacity for rest, and integrating bottom-up work ethically when working with trauma survivors and adult children of refugees and immigrants. Full show notes and transcripts available at mtsgpodcast.com. About Our Guest: Linda Thai, LMSW, ERYT-200 Linda Thai is a trauma therapist and educator specializing in brain- and body-based modalities for addressing complex developmental trauma. She teaches mindfulness, grief tending, and somatic practices with a special focus on adult children of refugees and immigrants. Linda has assisted Dr. Bessel van der Kolk in psychotherapy workshops on attachment trauma and offers trainings and courses worldwide. Key Takeaways for Therapists Gentle rocking and orienting to distance are accessible entry points for regulation. Track SUNs (Subjective Units of Nourishment) as well as distress in sessions. Somatic work expands capacity for rest, not just activation. Therapists must contextualize disembodiment within colonization, hustle culture, and systemic exploitation. Choose teachers and communities that match your style before committing to long trainings. Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: DW McCann FacebookMusic by Crystal Grooms Mangano: groomsymusic.com

The Initial Consultation Call: Setting the Foundation for Therapy Curt and Katie chat about consultation and intake phone calls — the crucial first step in the client–therapist relationship. They explore how to balance logistics with empathy, set realistic expectations, and create safety and rapport from the very beginning. About our Hosts:Curt Widhalm, LMFT – www.curtwidhalm.comKatie Vernoy, LMFT – www.katievernoy.com Key Takeaways for Therapists: How consultation calls set the tone for therapy Balancing logistics (fees, scheduling, insurance) with rapport-building Exploring referral sources, past therapy experiences, and client expectations Avoiding underselling yourself when discussing fees For more information and full show notes, visit: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Unmasking Shame, Myths, and Healing for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse: An Interview with Jeremy Sachs Curt and Katie chat with Jeremy Sachs, integrated therapist and Narrative Exposure Therapist, about supporting male survivors of sexual abuse. We explore harmful myths and stereotypes, the developmental impacts of sexual trauma, and the systemic and cultural barriers that make healing harder. Jeremy shares therapeutic approaches for early disclosure, building safety, and integrating trauma-specific interventions like Narrative Exposure Therapy, as well as the role of transformative justice in recovery. About Our Guest:Jeremy Sachs is an integrated therapist and Narrative Exposure Therapist from London, UK, now based in Glasgow, Scotland. Since the 2010s, he has run services that support individuals living with trauma or marginalisation, helping them to connect and find community. In 2016, he focused on developing therapy services for men, boys, and trans people who have survived sexual abuse and rape. He runs recovery groups and a private practice both online and in-person. Key Takeaways for Therapists: Myths like “men always want sex” or “they must have enjoyed it” are harmful and based on misunderstandings. Sexual abuse rarely occurs in isolation—context and systemic oppression matter. Containment and safety should precede trauma-specific work. Narrative Exposure Therapy can help integrate fragmented memories. Transformative justice offers community-based alternatives to the criminal justice system. Get the full show notes and transcript at: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree Patreon Podcast Homepage YouTube Facebook Group Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Relational Healing, Neuroplasticity, and the Power of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: An Interview with Dr. Alexa Altman, Ph.D. and Shira Myrow, LMFT In this episode, Curt and Katie chat with Dr. Alexa Altman and Shira Myrow, LMFT, about psychedelic-assisted therapy and how it supports trauma healing, neuroplasticity, and relational transformation. They explore how these treatments work, what integration really means, and how therapists can ethically and safely engage with this emerging field. About our guests:Dr. Alexa Altman and Shira Myrow, MFT, are co-founders of iPsychedelic Therapy. With backgrounds in trauma-informed psychology, spiritual counseling, and relational healing, they offer a holistic approach to psychedelic-assisted therapy that centers ethical care, integration, and transformational growth. Key takeaways: Psychedelics are not shortcuts—they act as amplifiers and accelerants in trauma work. Integration is a crucial part of psychedelic-assisted therapy and often overlooked. Clinicians must examine their own biases and seek robust training. Some clients are not appropriate for these treatments due to fragility or lack of therapeutic background. A safe therapeutic container, rigorous consent, and preparation are essential. Regulatory frameworks are still emerging and need clinician involvement. More info, transcripts, and full show notes: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Advanced Minds, Unique Challenges: Therapeutic Approaches for Gifted Children Gifted children often present with complex needs that are misunderstood or misdiagnosed. In this continuing education episode, Curt and Katie explore how asynchronous development, emotional intensity, and cognitive complexity show up in the therapy room—and what therapists need to build effective therapeutic alliances. They highlight key research, therapist characteristics that support clinical success, and how to work with masking, perfectionism, and challenging behaviors without pathologizing giftedness. Key Takeaways: Giftedness includes uneven cognitive, emotional, and social development Misdiagnosis and masking are common Therapist flexibility, intensity, and curiosity matter more than techniques Gifted children often resist therapy when they feel misunderstood Parents may need education and validation around giftedness About Our Hosts: Curt Widhalm, LMFT – www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy, LMFT – www.katievernoy.com CE Available for this Episode To earn 1 CE unit, visit moderntherapistcommunity.com More info and full show notes at mtsgpodcast.com Join the community: linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann – facebook.com/McCannDW Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – groomsymusic.com

Relational Self-Awareness and the Hard Truths of Couples Therapy: An Interview with Dr. Alexandra Solomon Dr. Alexandra H. Solomon joins Curt and Katie to discuss what therapists get wrong in couples therapy, how to work with high-conflict dynamics, and the power of relational self-awareness. We explore how therapists can show up better prepared for the real work of helping relationships grow—or gracefully end. About Our Guest:Dr. Alexandra H. Solomon, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist, professor, author, and host of the Reimagining Love podcast. Known globally for her relational self-awareness framework, Dr. Solomon bridges clinical wisdom, research, and pop culture in her work with couples. She is the author of Loving Bravely, Taking Sexy Back, and Love Every Day. Key Takeaways: The relationship—not the individuals—is the client in couples therapy Why individual therapist skills don't always translate to couples work How regulation and self-awareness reduce conflict and promote connection What therapists should know about the "change partner vs. acceptance partner" dynamic Why therapist bias and romantic myths can derail the work More info, transcripts, and full show notes at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: facebook.com/McCannDW Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: groomsymusic.com