The Place for Therapists to Grow

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Karen Struble, a clinical psychologist whose work with children, families, and the Life Model spans decades. With dual degrees in psychology and theology from Fuller Seminary and five years of training under Dr. Jim Wilder at Shepherd's House Counseling Center, Dr. Struble brings a rare depth of insight to the intersection of emotional healing, relational health, and spiritual formation.She's not only been part of the Life Model since its inception—working alongside Dr. Wilder before Life Model Works was even founded—but has also witnessed firsthand how its principles radically transform both children and adults.Karen has also served as a scholarly consultant to our team in the creation of LMIT, offering invaluable guidance in reviewing our Life Model Informed Therapy curriculum on behalf of Life Model Works. Whether you're a clinician, a parent, or someone interested in relational neuroscience and healing, Karen's wisdom and warmth will leave you inspired and informed.

This week's episode is special—my friend and colleague Sharon DeVries joins me, someone I've known since 2006 when she and her husband served in youth ministry at our church. Years later, she pursued a second career in therapy, and I knew she'd be an incredible asset to our team.In this conversation, Sharon shares how we can heal the brain after trauma, activate the joy center, and reconnect with who we truly are through the Life Model. It's honest, hopeful, and packed with insight.You won't want to miss this conversation! Watch or listen to the new episode—out now!

Unpacking the Deep Connection Between Neuroscience and Scripture with Kyle FerlicI'm thrilled for you to watch this must-see episode featuring my longtime colleague, Kyle Ferlic! Kyle and I are private practice colleagues at the Center for Family Transformation in Davidson, NC, and he has been a part of the CFT Institute since its inception. He's witnessed the power of LMIT firsthand—both in his own life and in the lives of his clients.Through his journey, he has seen the profound connection between brain science and biblical wisdom come to life, transforming the way healing and personal growth unfold. You won't want to miss this conversation!

Is Your Joy Tank Running Low? As therapists, it's easy to pour into others while forgetting to refill our own joy. That's where the Life Model comes in—it's designed to help you grow your capacity, stay energized, and prevent burnout so you can continue making a difference. In this week's podcast, I dive into how the colder months can take a toll on our energy, increasing the risk of burnout and emotional fatigue. Our team understands how challenging this can be, and we're here to help you prevent it. Also, exciting news! Our Basic Training Package is officially LIVE!

In this episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, Monica sits down with Jen and Chris Coursey from THRIVEtoday to discuss their incredible journeys with the Life Model. Both Jen and Chris encountered the Life Model at pivotal moments in their personal lives, and learning its concepts has transformed them both personally and professionally. They now dedicate their work to teaching the 19 Brain Relational Skills, which are essential for healthy brain development and relational growth.Tune in to hear their powerful stories and how they're spreading hope and transformation through their work with THRIVEtoday!

In this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, Monica sits down with Amy Glaser, a highly respected leader in the Life Model community and author of several Life Model books. Amy shares her insights on the transformative power of the Life Model and how its principles can guide therapists toward personal and professional growth. Don't miss this deep dive into healing, transformation, and ministry with one of the foremost voices in the Life Model world!

In this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, Monica is joined by heart healers Cathy Little and Melinda Wilson. Together, they dive into the transformative power of brain science-backed tools to accelerate personal breakthroughs. Hear their inspiring journeys and discover how they equip others to walk in their true design and heal hearts with practical, life-changing skills. Whether you're a therapist or on your own healing journey, this episode is filled with insights to empower your work and life.

The Joy-Anxiety Connection: Exploring Right-Brain Psychotherapy with LMIT

Exciting news for therapists!

In this special episode, Monica announces some exciting news – Module One of our Life Model Informed Therapy curriculum is officially ready to launch on September 9th, 2024!

How to Become an LMIT & Start Using These Skills Now! Ready to elevate your practice and make a deeper impact? In this episode, we break down the steps to becoming a Life Model Informed Therapist (LMIT) and how you can start applying these transformative skills right away. Learn how to integrate the Life Model's powerful tools into your sessions, foster deeper connections, and guide your clients toward healing and growth. Whether you're just getting started or looking to enhance your current approach, this episode is your roadmap to becoming an LMIT and changing lives today!

In this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, Monica sits down with Wayne and Marilyn Gray, a dynamic couple dedicated to marriage restoration and spiritual healing. With affiliations to John Eldridge's Wild at Heart ministry and ongoing training in deliverance and healing, the Grays have experienced profound miracles in their own marriage. Now, they share their journey and insights through retreats, workshops, and online ministry, helping couples everywhere connect deeper with each other and with God. Tune in to hear their incredible story and how they're equipping others to bring transformation to their relationships and communities.

Exciting News!

In this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, Monica sits down with Sungshim and John Loppnow, authors of Joyful Journey. As Marriage & Family Therapists, they specialize in integrating spirituality and brain science to help individuals and couples heal and grow. They discuss their unique approach, which combines nervous system awareness, somatic intelligence, and parts work to foster strength, hope, and peace in relationships. Learn how they empower clients with skills that connect faith and mental health. Don't miss this insightful conversation! For more information, visit their websites at Loppnow Relationship Center and Presence and Practice.

If you've been around here at The Place Therapists Grow for a while, you've heard of our NEW podcast series called  Therapists Growing Therapists In this series, CFT Founder Monica Mouer has the privilege of sitting down each week with fellow Life Model Informed Therapists to explore their personal journeys and discoveries of how the concepts of Life Model Works have transformed both their personal and professional lives. Whether you're a therapist, counselor, or mentalhealthprofessional, this series is designed just for you. Tune in and get inspired by the stories of growth and transformation from therapists around the world.

Ever wonder what's SO SPECIAL about the Life Model for therapists? We all know it's a valuable tool for personal healing and growth but what does it look like when we take the concepts of the Life Model and apply them in the room with our clients?  THAT'S THE SECRET SAUCE to the transformational work we do every day.  Want a taste of it yourself?  Learn how therapists all over the globe are finding to be so sweet about applying the Life Model in their personal lives but also in their practice!

In this week's episode of "Therapists Growing Therapists," Monica sits down with Josh Spurlock Josh Spurlock is a seasoned mental health professional with a passion for integrating faith and mental health care. Josh, who is a licensed professional counselor, certified sex therapist, and ordained minister, shares his insights on how to elevate mental health professionalism within the body of Christ. Together, they discuss practical ways to equip local churches and Christian mental health professionals around the globe with higher levels of care, utilizing the Neuroscience Informed Christian Counseling® model developed by Josh's company, MyCounselor.Online and the Original Life Model Works DREAM.  Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges faith and mental health in transformative ways.

NOW INTRODUCING The Life Model Info Graphic! This graphic is a tool we have developed for therapists that encapsulates our extensive study, experience, and knowledge of applying the Life Model concepts as a therapeutic modality. After presenting our infographic and observing a surge of interest, we decided to make it accessible to anyone who wishes to use this valuable resource for personal growth and with clients in their practice. You can order a hard copy or download a digital template of the copyrighted document from our website by clicking the graphic below!

We have so many exciting things happening at the CFT Institute, and Monica Mouer is here to give you all the details on what's next for the institute and how you can get involved!  At the CFT Institute, we exist to resource therapists with skills for personal growth that leads to professional outcomes. It all starts with the transformational concepts of the Life Model. We have discovered that the implementation of the Life Model in our lives as mental health professionals have led to more fulfillment in our personal life and relationship and life-changing insight and growth in the lives of our clients as we practice, model, and teach these practices. Start YOUR journey at our website at www.cftinstitute.com

Join us on this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, where Monica speaks with Carin Dussé, the founder of Shattered Hearts Revived Counselling. Connected by Chris Coursey from Thrive Today and the 19 Brain Skills, Monica and Carin share a deep, kindred connection to the transformative principles of the Life Model. In this heartfelt discussion, they explore their shared passion for the Life Model's unique approach to healing and personal growth, a method they believe in passionately yet observe as underrepresented in the therapy world. Tune in as Carin shares her expert perspective on helping individuals achieve wholeness, drawing on her extensive training in person-centered therapy and her role as a certified Partner Trauma Mentor. This episode is a deep dive into the power of understanding and processing pain, staying relationally connected, and fostering organized attachment, all through the lens of the Life Model.

Tune in to this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists where we feature an in-depth conversation with Roger Ruth, LPC LADC. With an extensive 45-year career that spans a diverse range of services, Roger brings a wealth of experience and unique insights into his therapeutic approach. His professional journey includes significant contributions to at-risk youth, families, and communities, alongside focused work in adult service delivery. As the Director of Clinical Services at The Oasis Therapeutic Life Choices and his ongoing work with the John 3:16 Mission Homeless Recovery Program, Roger continues to impact lives through dedicated service and expertise. Join us as Roger shares his journey and the lessons he has learned across his varied roles, providing valuable perspectives for therapists everywhere.

Join us on this week's episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, where we had the honor of sitting down with the distinguished Margaret Webb! With her diverse background, Margaret has beautifully assisted in pioneering the Alive & Well Immanuel Encounter Training Program. Since 1995, she has been at the forefront of teaching church prayer ministers to facilitate deep connections with the presence of Jesus.  Dive into our discussion as Margaret shares insights from her curriculum based on Dr. Karl Lehman's Immanuel Approach and Dr. Jim Wilder's Life Model, which enhance capacities for Godly connection, relational joy, and emotional maturity. 

Tune in to our latest episode of Therapists Growing Therapists, where we explore the nuanced field of betrayal trauma with expert Marsha Means. As the founder of A Circle of Joy Ministries and a seasoned specialist in sex addiction and betrayal, Marsha offers deep insights and effective healing strategies. Join us for an enlightening discussion on overcoming the challenges posed by betrayal and fostering recovery and empowerment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand and heal from the impacts of betrayal trauma.

Join us this week for a heartwarming conversation of Therapists Growing Therapists, featuring Dan & Betty Lacine. As Life Model informed therapists, Dan & Betty share their journey of personal and professional transformation, highlighting the profound impact of relational skills on strengthening marriages, community connections, and parenting. After recognizing the need to enhance their own relational skills while raising their children, Dan & Betty together with Thrive Today dedicate their time and resources to empower others in building strong, resilient families. Betty Lacine, LPCC, owner of Hope Counseling Center, brings her expertise in working with clients of all ages, specializing in children's therapy. Tune in as we explore their inspiring story of growth, connection, and the joy found in investing in relationships.

Tune in to our latest episode featuring Dawn Whitestone, Director of the Deeper Walk School of Ministry and Founding Partner at WhiteStone Professionals, as we explore the transformative power of the Life Model for personal and professional development. With her extensive background. Dawn offers unique insights into integrating faith and purpose into every aspect of life. Join us as we delve into Dawn's inspiring journey, rooted in faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others reach their full potential.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Bobby Elder, founder of Shepherd's Refuge Counseling, as we delve into the intersection of therapy, coaching, and spiritual transformation using the concepts of the Life Model. With over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families to thrive spiritually, relationally, and emotionally, Bobby shares invaluable insights from his extensive background. Tune in as we explore how Bobby's experience with the Life Model has contributed to fostering holistic growth and healing, empowering his clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.

Join us for this week's episode of "Therapists Growing Therapists" as we sit down with Sherrill and Bob Nielsen. Monica had the opportunity to cross paths with both Bob and Sherrill at her recent Thrive Training experience. Their shared passion for the Life Model at work ignited a powerful connection.  Sherrill is a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with trauma survivors and Bob is a professional coach with Conversion EQ and We Align. Their professional backgrounds and rich experiences cause the Nielsen's to bring a wealth of expertise and wisdom to the table.  Tune in as we explore the Nielsen's journey with the Life Model, diving into what drew them to this transformative space and how it continues to shape their lives and practices.  At the CFT Institute, we exist to resource therapists with skills for personal growth that leads to professional outcomes. It all starts with the transformational concepts of the Life Model. We have discovered that the implementation of the Life Model in our lives as mental health professionals have led to more fulfillment in our personal life and relationship and life-changing insight and growth in the lives of our clients as we practice, model, and teach these practices. Start YOUR journey at our website at www.cftinstitute.com

This week at The Place Therapists Grow, we are sitting down with Monica Mouer, Licensed Psychotherapist & Director of CFT Institute, and our guest, Clare Thomson. Clare was able to give us perspective and greater knowledge in how the Thrive Relational Brain Skills trainings and practices work hand in hand with the Life Model as a tool for cultivating connection & joy both personally as mental health professionals and in our professional practice.  At the CFT Institute, we exist to resource therapists with skills for personal growth that leads to professional outcomes. It all starts with the transformational concepts of the Life Model. We have discovered that the implementation of the Life Model in our lives as mental health professionals have led to more fulfillment in our personal life and relationship and life-changing insight and growth in the lives of our clients as we practice, model, and teach these practices. Start YOUR journey at our website at www.cftinstitute.com

This week at The Place Therapists Grow, we are sitting down with Monica Mouer, Licensed Psychotherapist & Director of CFT Institute, and our guest, Alyssa Voglewede, Licensed Professional Counselor, as we dive into what makes the Life Model so powerful as a tool for both personal and professional growth.  Stay tuned for more episodes of "Therapists Growing Therapists" as we sit down with other Life Model Informed therapists to hear about diverse experiences and connect through shared journeys of transformation through the richness of Life Model as a tool BOTH personally and professionally as Therapists. If you're a therapist seeking Continuing Education credits or growth personally and professionally

This week at The Place Therapists Grow, we are sitting down with Monica Mouer, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR certified Psychotherapist & Director of CFT Institute, and our guest, Melanie Connell, a fellow Life Model Informed Licenced Professional Counselor. Stay tuned for more episodes of "Therapists Growing Therapists" as we sit down with other Life Model Informed therapists to hear about diverse experiences and connect through shared journeys of transformation through the richness of Life Model as a tool BOTH personally and professionally as Therapists. If you're a therapist seeking Continuing Education credits or growth personally and professionally

We are so excited to be kicking off a NEW series of The Place Therapists Grow podcast we are calling “Therapists Growing Therapists.” 

Module One is OFFICIALLY in filming!! WOW! It's so crazy to think about the journey we have been on and how far we have come. We hope as therapist pursing growth you will continue on this journey with us and hopefully develop one of your own as taking journey's of growth is so crucial to what we do as mental health professionals! If you want a sneak peek at what our curriculum will be like check out our teaser curriculum!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Pillar #1: Multi-Generational Community Concept #3 In this week's episode, Monica introduces the depth of the concept of Living in Immanuel Presence. When we are interacting with and enter, God's presence produces a Shalom environment for ourselves and those around us. A valuble practice for us to practice as therapists to bring into our practice and our space, but also to guide our clients in learning as well. Tune in for the breakdown and the tools necessary to lean in, listen, be present, and maintain Shalom. Listen in to the introduction to the MAIN pillars of the Life Model. Episode HERE → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wWuZMgoa1s⁠ These 3 fundamental pillars form the bedrock of this revolutionary approach that we will be breaking down and discussing on our podcast: 

Pillar #1: Multi-Generational Community Concept #2 In this week's episode Monica lays down the RULES of how we should respond to Weakness. How to guide our clients in learning this concept and applying it in our own lives and practice as therapists. Listen in to the introduction to the MAIN pillars of the Life Model. Episode HERE → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wWuZMgoa1s⁠ These 3 fundamental pillars form the bedrock of this revolutionary approach that we will be breaking down anddiscussing on our podcast: 

A few months back, we talked about the MAIN pillars of the Life Model. 3 fundamental pillars that form the bedrock of this revolutionary approach: 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Monica & the CFT Family The Holidays can be a cheerful and joyous time for some, but we know that for others, they may not be the most exciting time. We want you to know we see you. We also want to share some tips we could ALL use to make this holiday season different for everyone! Creating connection, belonging, and bringing not only tidings of good joy but TRUE JOY to those we love most! Tune in to THIS episode to learn how to do Holidays the Life Model Way!

I have pursued the amazing opportunity to go through Thrive Training! I am still reflecting on my time a few weeks back when I completed my third and final stage of training and am so excited about the growth I experienced! Not only did this experience provide next-level and experiential relational brain skills training, I was able to meet and commune with LOTS of AMAZING people: Marlene Allen (Life Model Works Director), Chris M. Coursey and Jen Coursey (Thrive Today Directors), Dr. Jim Wilder (Head Neurotheologian for Life Model Works), some new HARDCORE therapist friends and a lot of incredible people who are doing the brave work of relational brain TRANSFORMATION! - Monica Mouer, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR certified

In this week's episode, we're laying the foundation for an upcoming deep dive into the transformative world of the Life Model. Join us as we introduce 3 fundamental pillars that form the bedrock of this revolutionary approach: 

In our transformative journey through the 5 to Thrive series, we arrive at the pinnacle of personal growth - Step 5: "Coming to a Place of Knowing Your Own Heart."

In order to mature healthily, there are requirements of the environment in which you are growing, just like a plant or a garden. If we do not create a nurturing and healthy environment, we will not produce an abundance of growth with healthy maturation.  What does this healthy environment look like?  Join Monica & Alex for an insightful discussion on how these supportive environments foster personal growth and empower us to navigate life's challenges with resilience and authenticity.  Taking this step will lead us to the fifth and final step of 5 to THRIVE with our clients as we support them in finding their people, where they are genuinely enjoyed and loved and can be the catalyst for a healthier, more fulfilling journey toward maturity and ultimately JOY. Want to continue diving deep into expanding your knowledge to help your clients? Start YOUR journey at our website at www.cftinstitute.com

Our Mission in Action - Reaching Therapists with a Shared Passion In this week's episode, meet Alex, our new and absolutely remarkable intern who discovered the transformative power of the Life Model which lead her here to CFT Institute.

Why is it important for us to recover? Recovery is essential for various reasons, and its significance can apply to different aspects of life: physical health, addiction, relationships, resilience, mental well-being, personal growth, and overall quality of life. If, as humans, we desire to live a life in which we are thriving, we must first be willing and put ourselves in a place where we can recover. This week, join Monica as she outlines step 3 of the 5 to Thrive and why finding a place to recover is important in your journey to thriving.