Podcasts about family therapists

I sit down with Sari Rose Barron, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to dive deep into the complex world of parenting teenagers. We explore the emotional rollercoaster of raising teens, discussing how our own nervous systems and past experiences impact our parenting. Sari shares incredible insights about staying connected when kids are pushing us away, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, validation, and creating a safe space for our teens to express themselves. We talk about handling difficult behaviors, the impact of social media, and why it's crucial to regulate our own emotions before approaching our kids. Sari even introduces her innovative AI parenting tool, offering support for moms navigating these challenging years. It's a raw, honest conversation about staying connected during one of the most challenging phases of motherhood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, David Bryan interviews Sharri Foos, a marriage and family therapist and founder of the Narrative Method.  Shari shares insights on the importance of creative writing in healing and personal growth, emphasizing the non-therapeutic, supportive nature of her workshops. The discussion also covers the core concepts of the Narrative Method.      Shari  and David explore the importance of creating a safe space for individuals to connect and share their stories. They discuss the role of humor and creativity in facilitating meaningful conversations, the challenges of navigating vulnerability, and the significance of self-compassion.       Shari emphasizes the need for understanding and empathy in human interactions, while also addressing the promotion and accessibility of the Narrative Method, which aims to foster connection and healing through storytelling.Shari Foos is the founder of The Narrative Method, an award-winning 501C3 that addresses the crisis of loneliness by connecting people through their stories and creative expression. Now in its 12th year, TNM offers numerous online groups open to all as well as programs for underserved communities including veterans, youth in crises and mature adults.Ms. Foos is a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California and New York. She earned an MS in Narrative Medicine from Columbia University (2012) and her MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles (1997), where she founded BRIDGE in 1999, a free humanities program for low-income adults, and where she is also an adjunct professor. She is the recipient of the New Directions for Veterans Community Hero Award (2015) and The Antioch University Los Angeles Lifetime Achievement Award (2016). Ms. Foos serves on the board of the City Kids Foundation and has served as a judge for Gold Humanism in Medicine since 2014. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, Shari was a television writer, punk-rock singer and the creator of cutting-edge salons and events.As a sought-after expert on the subjects of relationships, loneliness and meaningful connection, Foos' writing and commentary have appeared in a range of online and print publications and podcasts, including Real Simple, Huffington Post, Women's Health, KBLA, Fatherly, Thrive Global, Shondaland, The LA Weekly, Sparks & Honey Culture Briefings, Body Green, Sondership and Bustle. https://www.thenarrativemethod.org/https://www.instagram.com/thenarrativ...

What exactly is arousal? Is it more than just sexual? In this episode, you'll learn the four types of arousal (uppers, downers, all-arounders, and deprivation) and how we use addiction to avoid intimacy ("into messy"). Along the way, you'll also find out why recovery is not a "don't touch your penis" program and how the skill of "tension holding" can transform your relationships. Great conversation!Chris Chandler (LMHC, LPCC, EMDR, CSAT-S) is a licensed therapist, coach, and Clinical Advisor at Relay Health. He is also the founder of Christian Recovery Groups LLC, a national program helping men and women heal from compulsive and addictive behaviors through faith, community, and neuroscience-informed recovery practices. Over the past 20 years, Chris has led thousands through individual and group recovery experiences. His mission is simple: to restore people to wholeness by integrating clinical insight with authentic, Spirit-filled community because true recovery happens in relationship.Schedule a 30-minute consultation with Chris here.Andrew Engstrom is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Seattle Christian Counseling, where he helps individuals and couples heal by understanding themselves better first. Andrew is certified in MDFT (a holistic approach to counseling treatment) and uses PREPARE/ENRICH in pre-marital and marital counseling. He offers support and insight for overcoming obstacles that stand in the way of forming lasting, fulfilling relationships with others and God.Learn more and connect with Andrew here.See a preview of Chris and Andrew's intensives here.Support the showTake the Husband Material Journey... Step 1: Listen to this podcast or watch on YouTube Step 2: Join the private Husband Material Community Step 3: Take the free mini-course: How To Outgrow Porn Step 4: Try the all-in-one program: Husband Material Academy Thanks for listening!

277. Breaking Through Addiction in Marriage with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith   *DISCLAIMER* This episode is intended for adults.   1 John 1:9 AMP "If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].”   *Transcription Below*   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are clinicians, speakers, and authors with over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Their mission is to help couples navigate the complexities of relational challenges, particularly in the aftermath of sexual addiction and betrayal trauma, fostering deep restoration and growth.   Matthew is a Professional Certified Coach (ICF) with a background in pastoral leadership, while Joanna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR practitioner, and Certified Clinical Partner Specialist through APSATS. Both hold Master of Divinity degrees and have served together on multiple church leadership teams. Currently, they co-lead their private practice, The Raabsmith Team, where they specialize in helping couples rebuild connection, trust, and intimacy.   Their passion for this work stems from their own journey of restoration. After experiencing the devastating effects of sexual addiction and betrayal in their marriage, Matthew and Joanna embarked on a years-long pursuit of reconciliation. This transformative experience led to the creation of tools like The Intimacy Pyramid™, a practical model for relational restoration and growth co-created with colleague Dan Drake.    Their first book, Building True Intimacy (2023), has sold over 1,000 copies and provides practical guidance for couples to use the Intimacy Pyramid to create enduring connections. They also founded Renewing Us Recovery™, a comprehensive program designed to support couples in the later stages of relational restoration. In November 2025, they will host the inaugural Renewing Us Couples Retreat, offering workshops and connection opportunities for couples on similar paths of recovery and growth.   Matthew and Joanna live in Memphis, Tennessee with their three young children. They prioritize self-care through shared adventures, new experiences, and a weekly game of pickleball.   Free Resource Mentioned in Episode   Building True Intimacy book   Questions and Topics Discussed: What were the warning signs that you noticed when you were newlyweds that tipped you off to believing things weren't quite as they seemed? Are there any common life circumstances, whether nature or nurture, that predispose someone to be more likely to struggle with a sexual addiction? As couples seek to thrive in marriage, will you give us an overview of the intimacy pyramid you wrote a book about?   Other Episodes Mentioned During Episode: Pornography: Protecting Children, Personal Healing, Recovery, and Victory in Christ with Sam Black Pornography Addiction and Helpful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day   Additional Related Episodes on The Savvy Sauce: Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Protecting Your Marriage Against Unfaithfulness with Dave Carder Stories Series: Recovery From Sexual Sin in Marriage with Garrett and Brenna Naufel Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Special Patreon Re-Release Wholehearted Quiet Time with Naomi Vacaro   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”   Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”   John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:12)   Laura Dugger: (0:13 - 1:38) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message.   Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com, or connect with them on Facebook.   Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are my guests today. They are clinicians, speakers, and authors with over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Our conversation takes a few turns, from getting to hear their incredible and vulnerable story of healing and then getting tips for talking to our children about topics like sex, and also even receiving some practical wisdom and tips for enhancing our own marital enjoyment.   Here's our chat. Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Matthew and Joanna.   Matthew Raabsmith: (1:39 - 1:40) So good to be here.   Joanna Raabsmith: (1:40 - 1:42) So glad to be here. Thanks for having us.   Laura Dugger: (1:42 - 1:51) Oh, truly my pleasure. And let's just start here. Can you share your story going back to meeting and falling in love and your first part of marriage?   Matthew Raabsmith: (1:53 - 2:17) Sure, yeah. It was a little bumpy at first, actually. So, I knew Joanna through her brother. Joanna's brother was one of my best friends, and I got to meet her whenever she would come in town and visit, and she would invade guy night. He would usually bring her along to like a Lord of the Rings movie or something, and I would be a little frustrated because I would be like, oh, you brought your sister. Great. That's wonderful.   Joanna Raabsmith: (2:18 - 2:24) A little off-putting, not super friendly. And I was like, your friend's kind of a jerk. We did not like each other at all in the beginning.   Matthew Raabsmith: (2:24 - 2:54) Not big fans. And eventually over some time, we started to realize we had a lot in common. We liked to do a lot of the same things.   And one summer that Joanna was in town, we started hanging out, started doing more and more together, and really just kind of developed a friendship, which was really fun. And at the very end of the summer, realized that there was something between us. And so, we went on one date.   Our first date, we entered a golf tournament. We won it, and that was a good sign.   Joanna Raabsmith: (2:54 - 2:55) That's a pretty good sign.   Matthew Raabsmith: (2:55 - 3:02) And we went on three more dates over the course of two months and got engaged.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:03 - 3:07) And then two months after that, we got married.   Matthew Raabsmith: (3:07 - 3:16) Yeah. So, her brother went from like, yeah, it's cool you date my sister, to like, you're not ready to get married. But he's come around now.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:17 - 3:19) 15 years later. Yeah.   Matthew Raabsmith: (3:19 - 3:40) And, you know, a lot of it was, I think we had a definite sense of being kind of called together, being, you know, something special about who we were as a couple. And also, a recognition that we wanted to figure out what a good marriage looked like. We were really excited about marriage, but we didn't really know what we were doing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:41 - 4:15) Yeah, I've had a really great model of healthy relationship. My parents have a wonderful marriage. They work really well as a team.   And so, I knew, like, I want something like that. But as soon as we got married, we realized, but how do you actually build that? There's no, like, instruction manual for, okay, here are the things to do to have a great relationship.   And so, we read books. We went to conferences. You know, we did what we could, but we still found ourselves getting stuck, not able to really create, like, that deep sense of, like, connection intimacy that we really wanted.   Matthew Raabsmith: (4:15 - 5:17) And we started kind of hunting more and more for resources. We found some incredible resources that really changed our understanding of the way relationships work, the way people work, and really, for us, shifted our entire focus of kind of what we wanted to do, even with our life. And as we started to do that, though, we still kind of found ourselves at this kind of glass wall.   We felt like no matter what we tried, there was always this kind of distance between us. And that started to grow kind of over the years that we were together. It wasn't getting better.   It was actually kind of getting worse and worse and worse. And so, Joanna had actually decided to, after we finished our first grad degree together, the idea was we were going to go be pastors. And so, we had finished our kind of theological training.   Joanna decided she wanted to get a master's in marriage and family therapy so we could do some work around marriages and ministry in that way. And her very first-class kind of just set our life in a completely different direction.   Joanna Raabsmith: (5:17 - 6:26) Yes. So, my first class in the MFT program was a two-week intensive called Shame and Guilt. So, that's a really fun two-week intensive to be a part of. And as a part of that, though, they had an anonymous pastor come and share his testimony of struggling with sex addiction, becoming sober, getting into good recovery, healing and restoration in his marriage, kind of like that whole journey. And as he was talking, something inside of me started stirring. And I knew, OK, what he's saying is resonating way too much with me right now.   I think this is the thing. This is what is keeping us stuck, not able to really create the relationship we want. And so, that day I went home and first I just kind of started talking about my class, what I learned, what this pastor had shared.   Right. And nothing. Right.   We're just kind of talking generally about it. And so, finally I couldn't do it anymore. And I just stopped and I looked him square in the eyes and I said, “Are you struggling with this in our marriage right now?”   Matthew Raabsmith: (6:26 - 8:03) Yeah. And for the first time in my life, 20 years, I had been struggling with pornography, sexual addiction, and acting out in our marriage. And for the first time in my life, I was honest.   I had lied for years, both with Joanna and everyone else. And the kind of floodgates just kind of opened up. And I finally said yes.   And it was really hearing the story, I think, is what did it for me. I think it was knowing that somebody else had made it, that their life hadn't come crashing down because that was the greatest fear for me. That the moment anyone found this out, everything in my life would be over. Everything that I loved would be gone.   And so, this kind of story of hope gave me a little bit of courage that day, to be honest. But that started a really long journey for us because there was a lot of damage that was done in both of my hiding. And now kind of this revelation, all the pain kind of came crashing down on Joanna and kind of her shoulders.   And so, we started a quite intensive recovery process. We talked about it being kind of a full-time job. I went to recovery for my addiction and for kind of my acting out behaviors. Joanna had to begin a process of healing from the trauma of this discovery. And that process took us a number of years. It really was a long kind of arduous journey, but one that we ultimately survived and now thrive in our marriage and get the incredible luxury and the kind of gift of helping other couples do that.   So, that's kind of where we find ourselves.   Laura Dugger: (8:04 - 8:30) That is incredible. I just really appreciate you sharing your story. Clearly, stories are so powerful and that's what led to some healing for you and hopefully can open the floodgates for somebody else listening.   So, if we go back in your story, then, Joanna, I'd love to start with you. What were some of those red flags in early marriage that things aren't quite as they seem?   Joanna Raabsmith: (8:31 - 10:28) Yeah, there are a few. You know, I think that, you know, one of the pieces we kind of talked about, like, OK, we knew we're still getting stuck because there's 90 percent that felt really good. But then 10 percent that was extremely chaotic, really destructive.   Right. We would get we call the pain cycles when we get emotionally dysregulated. And there would be some things that, right.   Sometimes we would get into pain cycles, get dysregulated. And I kind of understand why. Right.   Like something happened. There was the disagreement. But other times I couldn't put my finger on it.   Right. Matthew would just get really angry and really shut down. And I wouldn't be able to connect it to anything that had happened in our life.   And so, it was very confusing. It was really hard to understand what was going on. And I think kind of in the same way, when I would pull too close into that connection, that intimacy, he would pull back.   Right. And it felt like even though we both named this goal and this desire, he would never actually partner with me in it. And so, again, that was really confusing because the actions were not matching up with reality and what was happening.   And I think the other piece that was kind of true for us and true for a lot of other people is that our own sexual relationship was fraught with pain. And so, there was, again, a lot that was really good, but also a lot that was really painful and confusing. And some of the pieces just didn't connect.   Right. And I would wonder, OK, what's going on? Well, I guess this is just the reality that like this is how much we get to expect in this area of our life, right.   In our relationship. And so, it was when the pastor started describing his life and addiction and what that looked like emotionally, sexually, relationally. I was like, oh, those are all the things that I'm currently experiencing.   Here's one thing that would answer all those questions that I have. And so, I think that was part of it. He kind of told me, like, OK, this is it.   Laura Dugger: (10:28 - 11:00) That would be so eye opening. And my heart's going out to the couple who is maybe starting to identify with this. Was it and share whatever you're comfortable with from your story or the person's story who opened things up to you?   So, sexually, I'm wondering if it was for you, Joanna, if you were hoping to connect sexually and that wasn't happening and that was confusing. You didn't feel pursued. But I don't want to fill in the blanks.   So, could you elaborate?   Joanna Raabsmith: (11:00 - 12:03) Absolutely. Yeah. And we find it a lot of different ways than couples that we work with.   Right. And so, it can be sometimes on either side of the extreme. And so, for us, it was where there would be kind of times when he'd be fully present and interested and engaged. Right. And then all of a sudden, kind of like I described emotionally, he would just withdraw and not be there. And I would reach out to connect.   And that was this like non-response. And which, again, didn't match up with those other times when he was engaged and wanting to connect. And he would give some sort of excuse that didn't totally make sense.   Right. But I was kind of like, what else? What was I left with except that?   So, I would kind of believe that and go with it, even though it didn't sit right. And so, yeah, I think that was part of it. We will see on the other side for some other couples.   It's the opposite. And maybe that spouse is hypersexual in the relationship. Right.   To the point where there might be pressure, even pressure to do things sexually that people aren't comfortable with. And so, yeah, it can look a lot of different ways. But that was kind of what our disconnect looked like.   Laura Dugger: (12:04 - 12:33) That's so helpful. And there's two different directions I want to go, Matthew. So, I'll set it up.   I guess I'm thinking of the guilt and shame and how those are usually so present. So, I have two questions. Were you when Joanna came to you, were you at a point where you recognize something was off and you wanted freedom from this and or had tried freedom before?   Let's start with that and then I'll go into the other one.   Matthew Raabsmith: (12:34 - 14:40) Yeah, it really was holy timing in a lot of ways. I, you know, for a lot of years I had I hated what I did. I didn't feel like I could stop it, but didn't have a lot of interest in kind of doing anything to stop it.   I kind of just like would just say, “OK, this is going to be the last time.” And then, you know, of course it would come back. But I think at this point I had really started to see the damage that was happening to our relationship.   I could feel us growing close, growing further apart. I could see kind of Joanna and the confusion that she was having. And like she couldn't understand things.   She would ask me a lot of questions that I didn't have answers to. And so, I actually a couple of months earlier, we were at a worship service, and they had said like, “hey, if you are ready to give something up, if you feel like there's something holding you back, come forward and confess it.” And Joanna and I were sitting next to each other, and I remember feeling like the Holy Spirit just like pulling me to like get up out of my seat and I wouldn't move.   I was like, no, because she's going to ask me what I went down for. I'm going there's you know, there's a random kind of prayer partner at the front. I'm like, I'm not going and confessing this to some random person.   And so, I was ready. But I think like I said, I think there was no path forward. It was kind of confess this and everything stops and ends.   But everything like marriage ends, life ends. And so, when she when she brought this, it really did feel like God had kind of been answering a prayer that I've been praying of like, if you give me a way out, I'll take it. I'm desperate.   I want it to stop. And it felt like that. I think it was both this kind of terror and this hope that day.   And even when I said, yes, it was a little bit like, what have I done? Like, could this have been different? Should I have just gone and told someone else privately?   Right. But I think ultimately that it was out between the two of us and that we kind of knew it. We knew what we were dealing with made a huge difference.   But I mean, God had been working in my life, offering opportunities for so long. I just been saying no, no, no. And then finally, you know, I think my heart just broke and it was like, yes, OK, I'm ready for this.   Laura Dugger: (14:40 - 15:14) I love how the Holy Spirit equipped you with that humility and courage to be brave in that moment. And it's such a blessing for all of us to get to see the end or I guess not the end of the story, but you at this point in your story where you're thriving. And so, I hope that offers a lot of hope to people listening.   But let's also pause. And so, going back further in time, Matthew, this was the other part of my question. What was life and attachment and your growing up journey like?   Matthew Raabsmith: (15:15 - 18:09) Yeah, I didn't know that at the time. Right. I a lot of this I figured out in the last couple of years of recovery.   You know, if you would have asked me, you know, as I was growing up about my life, I would have told you I had the perfect family. I had the perfect life. I think I did not realize that some of the things that I was going through weren't perfect, were harder.   And part of that was because I think the way my family dynamic worked was we just swept everything under the rug. You know, whatever happened, we just kind of went, OK, and moved on from. And I learned to do that as a kid.   And that meant a lot of emotional chaos. There was a lot of physical chaos and kind of volatility in our house growing up. And even though I had parents who are still married to this day, have stayed together and have tried to create kind of a stable life.   There was a lot of emotional and kind of relational instability. We moved around a lot. And then once we started moving, I found myself more and more kind of isolated at school. I started dealing with bullying and some things that really kind of left me not knowing how to deal with the pain that I was going through. And so, my way of stuffing things under the rug was getting, you know, escaping, you know, kind of escaping into anything that I could. I watched a lot of TV.   I was a latchkey kid, so I would come home. I'd watch TV a lot in the afternoon and then TV kind of just turned to more and more. And I was exposed pretty young to pornography, actually at a church camp.   I was at a summer church camp. Someone brought a Playboy magazine, and I was exposed to pornography. And I kind of felt that high, that rush.   And that just became kind of a mode of my escape. Right. Of whatever I could do to engage sexually, whether with my mind or with others.   That's how I could get out of the pain I was in. That's how I could stop feeling kind of the chaos that I was having and not realizing that it was becoming this kind of adaptive habit, that it would just be this thing I would go back to more and more. And I grew up at a time that technology was still emerging.   So, I can remember when we got our first computer and no one was talking about safeguards or anything. And so, it was just kind of exposure. Here you go.   Here's everything you could ever want and don't need. And that really became my life. And the more and more that I did, the better and better I got at lying and hiding and even being kind of vulnerable in kind of fake ways.   I would mention things like, yeah, we all have this struggle. And even Joanna, I had told like, you know, that was a struggle of mine in the past, but I've moved on from it. Right.   I told myself and other people just kind of lie after lie after lie so that I could have really this double life. I could appear one way and then I could be acting a completely different way, kind of in the dark.   Laura Dugger: (18:10 - 20:41) Yeah. And that makes sense. I'm thinking back to two episodes.   We did one with a male, Sam Black from Covenant Eyes, and he speaks so much of the origins of pornography and that foothold that Satan gets. And so many times it is in childhood, unwittingly you're exposed and then what it can turn into. And then Crystal Renaud Day came on to share a lot of females struggle with this as well.   And so, I'll link to those if those are a help.   And now a brief message from our sponsor. With over 1700 apartment units available throughout Pekin, Peoria, Peoria Heights, Morton and Washington, and with every price range covered, you will have plenty of options when you rent through Leman Property Management Company.   They have townhomes, duplexes, studios and garden style options located in many areas throughout Pekin. And make sure you check out their newest offering. The McKinley located in Pekin is a new construction addition to their platinum collection.   Featuring nine-foot ceilings, large spacious layouts, beautiful finishes such as quartz countertops and garages. You won't want to miss this outstanding new property. In Peoria, a historic downtown location and apartments adjacent to OSF Medical Center provide excellent choices.   Check out their brand-new luxury property in Peoria Heights overlooking the boutique shops and fine dining on Prospect. And in Morton, they offer a variety of apartment homes with garages, a hot downtown location and now a brand-new high-end complex near Idlewood Park. If you want to become part of their team, contact them about open office positions.   They're also hiring in their maintenance department. So, we invite you to find out why so many people have chosen to make a career with them. Check them out on Facebook today or email their friendly staff at Leasing@LemanProps.com.   You can also stop by their website at lemanproperties.com. Check them out and find your place to call home today.   So, at that moment when you've confessed, Matthew, the floodgates open for you and Joanna.   What did life look like for both of you next and even individually your journeys?   Matthew Raabsmith: (20:42 - 22:30) Yeah, it was separate. We did not separate, but we were really focused on our two different journeys because they were so different. For me, I had to figure out what had really gone on in my life and what was really happening.   Because, like I said, I had become such an expert at hiding from myself and others that I didn't really know how to live any other way. And so, I, you know, Joanna kind of handed me a list of everything this pastor had done. She was like, here you go.   Right. She kind of handed me that list and was like, good luck. And so, I dove in.   I went to a men's intensive. And I think that was probably one of the key places for me to tell my story for the first time. I really took a look at my life and had some people help me take a look and recognize the trauma that I had as a kid exposure that I had experienced and what that really meant to me and helped me understand what I was doing.   But also, kind of what I was doing to myself, how I was really kind of killing myself from the inside out and preventing myself from having the kind of relationship I wanted with God and other people. And so, that discovery was in really ways kind of invigorating for me. I felt like I was living for the first time.   I think I had started to kind of get out of this kind of burden, this fear of always being caught. I told Joanna kind of the history of everything that had happened in my life and our relationship. And so, I was feeling this kind of renewed sense of like energy and excitement of like, this is good.   I want this life. I want the life there that I'm not in constant kind of fear and in constant kind of connection to this thing I hate. And so, which is really different than what Joanna was experiencing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (22:30 - 25:07) Yeah. So, for me, it was very jarring in the beginning. Everything I thought was real came crashing down around me.   And that was especially jarring because I had left kind of the direction, the path that I was on. Right. We talked about our story earlier.   It included two months of dating, two months of engagement before we got married. And that also included me dropping out of law school, getting married and moving to California to pursue a ministry degree so we could work as pastors together or do something together. And so, in that moment, all of that came crashing down.   And I kind of was very lost, not just in our relationship, but in kind of what in the world am I even doing here? What am I going to do moving forward if he doesn't choose recovery? Right.   And so, just all of those question marks, all in that one moment of him answering that question affirmative. And so, so there was like that heaviness on one side and then on the other side was this relief of finally everything I've been experiencing makes sense. Right. Finally, I feel like I actually know what's going on. And because of that, there could maybe be a path forward for us as well. So, is this very, very weird dichotomy in that moment? And so, but I think I knew right away, like, I can't be vulnerable. I can't be intimate with him anymore. Right.   I have to step back in our relationship and wait and see what he chooses to do. Is he going to choose to do the work of recovery and get healthy and start to be honest and safe or not? And so, that's so we kind of did kind of there's some space for a very long period of time while we focused on our own individual recoveries.   And that, again, was a little bumpy for me. This is over a decade ago. And so, there is very little information about what partners experience.   We call it betrayal trauma, and that just wasn't a very common word at the time. And so, some of the resources I plugged into came from a more we would call it codependent, co-addict focus, which just really didn't fit. So, I struggled to find resources that felt like they fit for my journey.   But once I did, it all again, my own healing process started to make sense. And it was so like freeing and liberating to understand. Like, oh, OK, this is what I'm going through. This is why I feel this way.   This is what it looks like to heal and move forward. And so, kind of beginning that process was so important because then when Matthew was kind of in a healthy, safe place, I was as well, and we can start to step in towards each other on that kind of more couples' journey at that point.   Laura Dugger: (25:07 - 25:17) I love how you did that wisely, though, separate first, not rushing into couples at that time. Absolutely.   Matthew Raabsmith: (25:18 - 26:33) Appreciate you calling it wise. I think we were terrified. Yeah, we'll take God's help.   I think he was like, you guys just work on your own stuff for a while. And in some ways, like I said, it was we didn't know what we were doing. But I think we knew we wanted there to be a future between the two of us.   But we knew it had to be completely different in some ways than what we had before, which was scary because we liked what we had before. Like we had a really great marriage in many ways. Right.   There was this portion of it, this hidden portion that was really infecting and killing it all. But what we did have together, we didn't want to totally lose. It just was really hard to know, especially early on, what's going to come forward.   Like, who are we still going to be as we go forward? Are we still going to be a couple who does things together? Right. Who works together? Or is that all kind of going to have to be different? Is that the only way that we have kind of moving forward?   And so, that was that was probably the hardest part was having like this sense of like not wanting to lose us. We were like, if we lost that, that was going to be miserable. And I think a lot of our work was about how do we eventually reclaim this marriage that we want, that we love?   Laura Dugger: (26:34 - 27:04) Yes, because from what I'm sensing, you're friends with each other, you're on purpose or on mission with God. He did a course correction change, putting you on this path to help couples. But your desire to work together, it's like He still honored that in the ministry of reconciliation.   And I'm assuming abundantly blessed it beyond what you could ever dreamed up what we're doing now.   Joanna Raabsmith: (27:04 - 27:42) Right. It's been amazing to see what God has done, how he's used our story, which is so fitting because it was someone sharing their story that brought our healing. And I think because of that and it wasn't right away; it took some time to get to the place where we felt open to God using our story to bring healing to others. But we found as we stepped into that, that we have received such a blessing.   Right. And just being able to sit with other couples in that journey and see them go from that place of pain and confusion to this place of restoration and thriving. Like there is no better work that we could have imagined for ourselves.   Laura Dugger: (27:42 - 28:09) Love that. And really, you did have to pioneer a path. There weren't many resources at that time.   So, that's another reason I'm grateful you can share your story, because I hope it unlocks freedom for others. So, if we're turning more outward now and you're helping as you work with couples, how do you help them identify the difference between sexual struggles and sexual addiction?   Matthew Raabsmith: (28:10 - 30:15) Yeah, that's a great question. And I think that it really kind of exists on a spectrum. And so, everything kind of exists under what we call problematic sexual behavior or unwanted sexual behavior.   Whenever someone is acting in a way sexually that doesn't align with their values. And then the question is, is how often, how compulsive, right? How habituated, right?   How really embedded is that practice? Because the more and more embedded it is and the more and more that I continue to act on that, seeing the damage that it's doing, that's really what qualifies as the addiction. The addiction is when I know that this is causing harm and I and I feel that even though I want to stop it and I've tried to stop.   Right. I can't stop the 12 steps has a great line. They say addicts, you know, addicts have no problem stopping.   It's staying stopped. That's hard for an addict. Right.   And so, that's usually a sign that there's an addiction. And really what that means is that just means that I'm going to have to be even more kind of thorough and scrupulous in my willingness to change a lot. Because if I have built an addictive lifestyle, that means everything I do kind of functions to support that lifestyle.   Right. And so, my part of that was this hiding. I lied about everything.   I would lie about anything just to make sure that I was in control of the narrative. And so, for me, it was recognizing that if I was going to move forward free of my addiction, then it had to begin with honesty, with this kind of radical honesty and transparency and growing in that consistently, because that was the way that I manifested this addiction and kind of kept it going. And so, that's really what the addiction is about, is recognizing what are the kind of pieces in my life that are supporting this addiction to continue to exist?   And how is God going to dismantle those things? Right. And how am I going to be a part of that dismantling?   Laura Dugger: (30:16 - 30:33) That's well said. And also, I'm curious, are there any common life circumstances, whether that's nature or nurture, that are more likely to predispose someone to more likely have this struggle with sexual addiction?   Matthew Raabsmith: (30:34 - 32:30) I mean, there are, I think, you know, the things that we tend to look for are trauma and trauma comes in so many different forms. So, trauma is more it's rare that it's a single event. It's often more a kind of consistent occurrences.   As I mentioned, you know, I can't speak to kind of one event in my life that I say this was the traumatic moment in which everything changed. But it was more of the chaos. And so, I grew up in a family that could be really, really, really loving and incredibly encouraging and fun and silly and in a heartbeat switch into one that was verbally and physically just chaotic and terrifying.   And it was that chaos that kept me on edge. What it did was it created in me kind of a system of always wanting to be on high alert. And that would exhaust me.   That would kind of wear me out. And I would want to kind of numb that kind of feeling away. And so, I think those traumas, I do think early exposure.   Right. I mean, I was exposed early before my brain was ready to really understand what it was dealing with. And I think the third component that we often see is a low level or a kind of really a void of sexual education.   There was I'm sure I had a small talk with my dad at some point, but we were not talking about pornography. We weren't talking about bodies. We weren't talking about sex from a kind of healthy, good way.   I grew up in the church, and it was kind of don't do this until you're married and then you'll be fine. Right. That was the sexual education message.   And so, those things, right, trauma, exposure and lack of kind of education usually forms in someone a difficulty of knowing what they're doing, knowing that it's destroying them before it's really kind of gotten a deep hole.   Joanna Raabsmith: (32:30 - 33:20) I think like the brain. The brain aspect to when we talk about addiction, there are usually chemicals involved in addiction being formed, being created. And so, I think also co-occurring disorders, right, that emotional pain, also things like anxiety, depression, ADHD, where my brain really likes the dopamine it gets from sexual acting out. Right.   And you can actually need it to feel OK. That can also be a factor in kind of especially that addictive side of these behaviors. When my brain gets really attached to that dopamine release that it's getting because maybe I have some other things going on or I just have emotional pain.   I don't know what to deal with, how to handle it, how to regulate that in a healthy way.   Laura Dugger: (33:20 - 34:30) There's so many good points there. I'll just highlight one because there's a profound piece that you were talking about with early exposure to evil and the corruption of it is extremely harmful. And yet not being exposed to God's good design for sex and hopefully being coached by our parents, that is both of those play a part in the addiction. And so, I'm thinking even as we shift to think about parents, I know I've had parents come to me and just say, I don't want to talk about this with my kids.   I don't want to rob their innocence. And my approach is if God made it, this is good. We can talk to them.   You're not robbing their innocence when you're sharing the good age-appropriate parts of sex. And it's so great to be that first one to share with them. And I think it does the opposite of what we would expect.   We're afraid that that might make them hyper sexualized. But would you speak to that? Any encouragement for parents?   Matthew Raabsmith: (34:30 - 36:37) Yeah, it's tricky. I mean, even as parents, we've got kids and its still kind of navigating it. But I do think what it does is it lets someone learn the things they need to in the timeline they need to.   I think part of one of the things is that, you know, really good sexual education starts young. I mean, they start six and seven years old or even younger, just talking about our bodies. Right.   Because I think that's part of it. Really, this is about understanding the goodness of our bodies. This body was created by God, the maker of heaven and earth, and he called it good.   And so, I think part of a good sexual education begins with that. And then, what's really nice is once you've started the conversation, that means if your children are exposed or if they're presented with things that don't line up with what they've been hearing, they now feel safe to come and talk about that. Because that's really what this was about.   I didn't feel safe to talk about what I was exposed to, what people were doing. Right. And what people were encouraging me to engage in.   And so, you know, my parents would ask me how it's going. I would not tell them anything because it wasn't a conversation that they were having with me. And so, I didn't think it was a conversation I was going to have with them.   And so, that meant that as I found myself further and further away from my values, I felt like, who am I going to share this with? And so, part of having the conversation is it normalizes with our kids that this is OK to talk about, which is actually what adults need. I mean, part of our work with couples as adults, we have to get them talking about sex and body parts.   I mean, it's amazing to have 30, 40, and 50-year-olds in our offices and in our sessions. And they're so uncomfortable. Right.   They don't want to talk about sex. They don't want to talk about their bodies. They don't want to talk about what their bodies do.   Right. And we keep being like, this is God's good stuff. Right.   There is goodness here. But you have to begin by talking about it. Right.   Having these conversations.   Joanna Raabsmith: (36:38 - 37:54) I tell all the parents I work with, your kids are going to pick up a narrative about what sex is and what sexuality is, whether you want them to or not. And so, would you rather be the first person to step in and give them a healthy view, a healthy narrative to understand? Right.   And this is beyond kind of the nuts and bolts that everything our kids are learning. They're trying to find a deeper meaning. They don't think it's unconscious when they're young. Right. But they're taking it and they're going, what meaning does this have for me? How does this inform my self-worth, my view of my own value as a human in my body?   And how does it inform my experience of the world and my safety in the world? And am I empowered to make decisions? Am I connected?   Do I belong? Right. All of those questions are asking.   And so, as they're confronted with issues of sexuality, it's going to inform those things. And the world will not give them a healthy narrative about it. Right.   And so, being able as a parent to step in and give them that healthy meaning, that narrative, that understanding of their worth and their safety as they're piecing together kind of sexuality, again, at that age-appropriate level is so important.   Laura Dugger: (37:54 - 38:30) Guess what? We are no longer an audio only podcast. We now have video included as well.   If you want to view the conversation each week, make sure you watch our videos. We're on YouTube and you can access videos or find answers to any of your other questions about the podcast when you visit thesavvysauce.com. And I love that you're talking about this with couples you work with.   So, will you give us an overview of the intimacy pyramid that you actually wrote a book about and you teach to couples?   Joanna Raabsmith: (38:30 - 38:31) Absolutely.   Matthew Raabsmith: (38:31 - 39:15) Yeah. I mean, it was born out of our journey because, as you said, we wandered for a while and we felt a little bit like Israel, just kind of, you know, knowing that the Promised Land was out there, but never really feeling like we could find it. And when we started to piece together, I think the kind of relationship that we had dreamed of reclaiming, we really ask ourselves, how can we make this a more direct, a simpler process, not just for couples who went through what we went through, but really for any couple who's hungry for this, for the couple like us when we were first starting.   It really wants an amazing marriage. And so, we really focused on a kind of simplistic idea of what are the core kind of foundational levels of building really healthy intimacy.   Joanna Raabsmith: (39:16 - 40:10) Yeah. So, the intimacy pyramid, it's actually a triangle. There's a visual that goes along with it.   So, if you imagine the different levels of the triangle, very similar to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, starting at the bottom, you have to start with honesty. And so, we definitely experienced that reality in our own relationship. Right.   This is something we learned from Couples in Betrayal, but like Matthew said, we realized this is where every couple starts. Am I willing to be fully open, fully honest and transparent in this relationship? Am I being my authentic self?   Right. And after that level of honesty, that's when we start to build safety. And that has to do with our ability to communicate in really healthy, constructive ways.   Even when it's hard, even when we're disagreeing, even when we feel like yelling at each other. Are we able to show up with that belief that we both have the same goal? We're trying to build something together.   Matthew Raabsmith: (40:10 - 41:57) And with honesty and safety, that's where we get to work on trust as a couple. That's that next level. And trust is where we start to be more partners, where we're really starting to kind of lean in, work together, kind of be courageous and saying, “Hey, this isn't just my life anymore, right?”   This is our life together. And as that trust is established, this is what allows for the incredible work of vulnerability. And there's been all these studies about vulnerability over the last few years and how important it is.   What we recognize, though, is vulnerability on top of nothing is actually really risky and kind of even dangerous. It's vulnerability that's built on healthy trust where we step in and we do share some of those deeper pains in those wounds, those fears. We start to really heal some of those kind of early traumas that we experience.   It's in that vulnerability. That's what allows a couple to be truly intimate. And it's when they've worked through each of these levels, what we find is these couples, when they reach this kind of this intimacy level, they're passionate about who they are as a couple. They love kind of their relationship itself. They have a purpose to it. They have a sense that like our marriage, our relationship exists for a reason, but they're also really playful.   They're silly. They're really kind of comfortable in their own skin. And it's those five levels really working together that allows them to experience a relationship that gives life. I think one of the things we know is that when God creates, it gives life. And so, God created marriage not to burden us, right? Not to kind of, you know, not even just to get us through, you know, kind of surviving life, but actually to bring more life.   Right. And not just life within the relationship itself, but life outside of it.   Laura Dugger: (41:58 - 42:22) Oh, I love it. And you're also working with couples. I've heard you speak before about the working on offering your spouse the gift of self-awareness. And so, what could couples expect? How do you actually work with them to grow in self-awareness and recognize things like the emotional process they go through in marriage?   Joanna Raabsmith: (42:22 - 43:48) Absolutely. So, awareness. So, in our book, we obviously detail the intimacy period much more.   And that's Building True Intimacy is the name of the book. But each of those levels we just walked through have different components that go into that. And awareness is kind of like one of the most important components of that honesty foundation.   So, we have to start with awareness and we can't really build anything if there's a lack of self-awareness. And so, when we work with couples, one of the first places we start is we kind of look at the past. Are they aware of what they've been through, what those experiences are, and how those experiences have shaped them into the person that is now in the present, showing up with their spouse.   Right. And so, once I start to have that insight from my past, from those experiences, how they shape me, I can better understand my present. What are the things that I feel and why do I feel those things in particular?   Right. And then when I feel those things in a relationship, and these are typically those kind of heavier, more challenging, more painful emotions. How do I respond?   How am I showing up? Because the reality is that all of us cope with emotional pain the same way we cope with physical pain. We go into fight or flight.   That part of our brain gets triggered and we respond with these kind of destructive relational coping behaviors that then hurt my partner.   Matthew Raabsmith: (43:48 - 46:22) Yeah. Like, for example, I told you about that chaos I experienced as a kid. And so, those would always happen around conflicts.   My parents would disagree about something. There would be some type of argument about, you know, and it could be anything where we were going for dinner or what color the curtains were. Right.   But it would create this chaotic environment. So, as I got married, the thing that I didn't like the least was any type of conflict. Joanna and I would get in when I could sense us disagreeing and we are both passionate.   We have opinions and we believe things and we get into this kind of disagreement and argument. It would freak my system out. And I didn't realize that because I didn't really know my past.   I didn't know what was going on. I would just really do anything to shut it down. I get angry and I try to get loud, or I just walk away in the middle of a conversation.   As Joanna was talking, I would just leave the room and my acting out was just a further manifestation of that kind of leaving the relationship. And so, part of my healing journey was to learn about my story and recognize, oh, OK, I can see what's happening. And what's really interesting is it still happens in our life today.   I've been in recovery for 12 years. I still feel the same things. Now it's more like when my kids are getting involved.   Right. And there's energy in the room and people are online. And then I go, oh, yeah, there it is.   There's my system again. It's starting to feel unsafe. It's starting to feel alone. And I know what it wants to do. It wants to get angry, or it wants to just shut down and walk away. And what's incredible is that we've learned the ability to see where we're at but also speak directly to that.   And so, what I get to do for myself now is I get to go, “OK, I know I'm feeling unsafe and I know I'm feeling alone. And I know I want to get angry to solve it, but it won't do it. But here's the truth. The truth is that I'm safe in God's economy. I'm empowered. I have an incredible partner in my life. I've never been alone. I've always had someone there for me. And Joanna is the perfect example of that.”   And that totally changes my sense of really kind of where I am. And it changes how I show up. I tend to be much more calm.   I ask questions rather than make demands. And it's that ability to kind of see where we're at and shift. That's just been such a game changer for our family and just for our own relationship.   We still have to work on it. You know, it doesn't always look that pretty. Right.   But when we do, it's amazing how different it goes.   Laura Dugger: (46:24 - 46:44) And then I just think of the generational impacts that has when people are willing to do the work. And so, if there's a brave couple out there who wants to seek their own help and healing, can you share where they can go for help, including the Raabsmith team and all that you have to offer?   Matthew Raabsmith: (46:46 - 47:30) Yeah, you know, we would love them to connect with us because I think one of the things we recognize was having guides along the way. I mean, we had to figure a lot out ourselves, but we also had some really incredible guides, some mentors, some coaches, some therapists. And so, we always just say, hey, connect with us.   You can find us at raabsmithteam.com. We have a heart for couples who want restoration and reconciliation because that's what we're getting to live and experience. And what's cool is our whole team, they're couples who've been through this work, but who also have been professionally trained to help other couples to just continue to guide and to grow relationships so that they're thriving and they're kind of giving that life.   Joanna Raabsmith: (47:30 - 48:10) Absolutely. We also love to give out resources. And so, we have the kind of we call it the honest connection.   And so, again, if you're starting this journey or even this is for any couple who wants deeper connection, deeper intimacy, learning how to do that on a daily basis in small ways is so important. And so, we have a worksheet that couples can take and use. We're happy to provide that for them for free and kind of try this for 30 days and notice the changes that you experience in your relationship.   And so, that's a great starting point wherever you are in relationship to begin that journey of connection.   Matthew Raabsmith: (48:10 - 48:14) And you just go to raabsmithteam.com/free and that resource is all yours.   Laura Dugger: (48:15 - 48:26) Wonderful. Add links for that in the show notes for today's episode. And is this then for any couple worldwide, nationwide?   Can you work with people?   Matthew Raabsmith: (48:27 - 48:55) We have we've got couples across the world, which is really fun. It's been really neat just to see the way that God has used our work. One of the things when we first started this journey, we started getting couples calling us saying, “Hey, I don't have anybody in my area that specializes in this, that understands this journey. Can I work with you?” And so, we kind of felt a calling to say we want to make sure that we connect with people wherever they are. And so, absolutely.   If you can hear our voice, you can work with us.   Laura Dugger: (48:55 - 49:14) I love that. And just as a little bonus practical tip, you kind of mentioned being proactive to thriving in marriage. Is there any encouragement that you could share or a specific practical tip that anybody could start to incorporate if they want to take their marriage to that thriving level?   Matthew Raabsmith: (49:15 - 50:12) Yeah, I think just the ability to slow down. We have a  nine, seven and six-year-old. We own our own business, and we like life and life can get incredibly fast.   And I think what we have found is when, as I was mentioning, when I learned the ability just to slow down, even if I don't fully just know myself slowing down and checking in, just where am I at right now? Where's my heart? Right. Where do I want to be?   I think I realize that so often my values and my actions aren't aligned when I'm moving too quickly. I'm not being the person that I want to be. And we see that in so many couples. We meet so many couples and there are two really great people who have a hard time working together. They have a hard time kind of being a team.   And it's usually because they're working so fast. They don't realize they're kind of working against each other. So, slowing down, I think, is such a big thing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (50:12 - 51:18) Another piece that's, again, really easy to start right away. A lot of couples we work with, and I think probably even us when we start a relationship, was there were two individuals in a relationship, and it was kind of either me or you. And starting to understand there's this third thing between you, the relationship. There's a third almost entity that really needs care. It needs nurture. It needs you to focus on its needs from time to time.   And so, beginning to approach the day, even approach conversations with this question of like, what does our relationship need right now? And even as you're trying to make decisions, what is the way we can decide this in a way that's good for our relationship or what decision benefits our relationship rather than does it benefit you or me? Because when you get into that struggle, it can become a competition.   It can become transactional really quickly. So, starting to ask that question, starting to talk about the needs and caring for the relationship very intentionally can be a way to shift that.   Laura Dugger: (51:20 - 51:38) Thank you for sharing that. I think that leads into my last question, because you already know we're called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge. And so, as my final question for both of you, Matthew and Joanna, what is your savvy sauce?   Matthew Raabsmith: (51:39 - 52:22) I kind of mentioned this, but I think it's the willingness to be honest. I was so willing to lie to myself and kind of really hide from other people. And I didn't even know that I was doing it.   But as I have learned to be more honest in really kind of healthy ways, right. You can dump, you can whine, you can complain, you can get angry. But truly being honest meant just looking at what I was feeling and trying to kind of figure that out and name that.   As I have learned that ability to be honest with myself and with others, it has just opened up a new world of possibilities. And it has shown me how many people care for me; how much God cares for me. So, I think that honesty is something I just want to practice more and more every day.   Joanna Raabsmith: (52:22 - 53:30) I think for me, just in my own journey and working with so many partners, that importance of being able to make empowered decisions in my life. Right. That I am really intentionally choosing the direction I'm going in life.   Realizing that instead of going into this more helpless, powerless victim stance is such a difference. And really the only thing that changes a lot of times is mindset. You don't have to overhaul your entire life.   Right. You have to add in like four hours of self-care and all of these things. But starting to shift that mindset into, wait, I have power in the decisions I make.   And one of the ways that's really important to do that is growing that self-awareness. I cannot make empowered decisions if I'm not aware of where I'm at emotionally, physically, spiritually. Right.   If I'm not aware of my needs on a regular basis. And so, slowing down to check those things in, sometimes even multiple times in the day if you're not used to that. So, you're more connected to yourself, to what you need, what you want.   So, you can start making those empowered decisions.   Laura Dugger: (53:32 - 54:00) I love that. It's just so enjoyable to host a very lively couple who's humble and you've done your work. And then you're willing to share all this overflow of goodness with all of us.   So, I think my prayer is that the Lord would richly bless you for this open-handed generosity of wisdom and your story and experience that you've shared with us and modeled for us today. So, thank you to both of you for being my guest.   Joanna Raabsmith: (54:00 - 54:03) Thank you so much. It's a joy being here.   Laura Dugger: (54:05 - 57:47) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

Two years ago, I said AI couldn't replace therapists. I was wrong—about the technology, anyway. In late 2025, AI can now see you, hear your voice, and remember everything you say. But just because it can doesn't mean it should. In this episode, I'm exploring what's actually possible, who AI might actually help, and the uncomfortable questions we're not asking yet. This one might upset you. Good.Resources:

In episode 76 Allyson interviews guest speaker, Naomi Tapia, an associate therapist in CA with lived experience, specializing in eating disorders and body image, specifically in Latine culture. Naomi so graciously shares her own story of an eating disorder, trauma, SI, grief and loss. Naomi talks about what led her to healing, and shares so much great wisdom. Find Naomi on her IG @mylatinatherapistContent warning: this episode does include mentions of SA and suicidality. Please listen at your own discretion and make sure to give yourself permission to take breaks, use coping skills or even skip this episode if listening to it would be harmful to your mental health right now.About our guest speaker:Naomi Tapia-Abrego, M.S., AMFT #128232, is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and a member of a new practice, Warrior Path Therapy. As the eldest daughter of Mexican immigrants and a first-generation college graduate, she brings cultural depth, lived experience, and a little sass to every session. Fat, queer, and unapologetically herself, Naomi works virtually with Millennial and Gen Z clients navigating boundary-setting, family dynamics, disordered eating, imposter syndrome, and the many struggles that come with being a child of immigrants. She believes healing starts when we stop shrinking ourselves and finally take up the space we deserve.This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Please seek the support of a local therapist if you are currently struggling and in need of treatment. To find out more about what therapeutic services I offer visit my website at: ⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠As always, you can find me on IG ⁠@bodyjustice.therapist

Many women notice real shifts in desire, arousal, and physical comfort during the menopause transition. Yet most of us were never taught how to talk about these changes, or how to support our sexual health as part of overall midlife wellness. Sexual pleasure is a key marker of health. It's linked to hormones, cardiovascular function, sleep quality, mental health, and even long-term longevity.Because of stigma and a lack of open conversation, too many women quietly accept pain, low desire, or the belief that sexuality fades after midlife. It doesn't. Menopause changes sex, but it doesn't end it.In this episode, we break down what really happens to the body during midlife, how pleasure evolves, and practical ways to rebuild a healthy, satisfying sex life on your own terms. As I often say, every woman has her own unique health equation, and that includes sexual pleasure. There is no single path that works for everyone.My guest today is Dr. Rachel Zar, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. She holds a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University, a PhD in Clinical Sexology from Modern Sex Therapy Institutes, and advanced certificates in sex therapy and sexuality education from the University of Michigan. Dr. Zar is the Clinical Director at Avid Intimacy, a sex and relationship therapy practice specializing in evidence-based support for individuals and couples.Medical Disclaimer:By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice or to make lifestyle changes to treat any medical condition in yourself or others. Always consult your own physician for any medical concerns. This disclaimer also applies to any guests featured on the podcast.Find Dr. Zar:Website: https://www.rachelzartherapy.com/IG: @rachelzartherapyFB: @rachelzartherapyStay connected to JFW:Watch on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@jillfooswellness/videosFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillfooswellness/Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillfooswellnessGrab discounts on my favorite biohacking products: https://www.jillfooswellness.com/health-productsEnjoy 20% savings and free shipping at Fullscript for your favorite supplements by leading brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jillfooswellnessSubscribe to the JFW newsletter at www.jillfooswellness.com and receive your FREE Guide on How To Create Your Menopause Health Equation Ebook. Schedule your complimentary 30-minute Zoom consultation here:https://calendly.com/jillfooswellness/30-minute-zoom-consultations

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

In Episode 98 of the Thoughts from the Couch podcast, host Justine Carino, a psychotherapist and anxiety treatment specialist, discusses the complex question of whether to stay or leave a marriage.Joined by Andrea Dindinger, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, they explore the factors that lead individuals and couples to question their relationships, the importance of addressing repetitive conflicts, and the role of personal accountability in maintaining a healthy partnership. The episode also delves into the impact of divorce on children and the financial considerations for women contemplating separation.Learn more about how to set effective boundaries as a “people-pleaser”Learn more about Andrea Dindinger: https://www.andreadindinger.comFollow Andrea Dindinger on Instagram: @andreadindinger

Host David Warren speaks in depth with Kim Haar about the various aspects of family estrangement.  Note:  Kim is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Guest information:  www.thereshopehere.com  Our website:  www.oasisnetwork.org

Barbara Lamb isn't your everyday therapist; she's one of the world's leading pioneers in exploring humanity's most extraordinary experiences. A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Hypnotherapist, and Regression Therapist based in California, Barbara has dedicated her career to working with individuals who claim encounters with beings not of this Earth.Since 1991, she has guided more than 550 experiencers through over 1,800 regressions into their otherworldly encounters, opening doors to hidden memories of contact with extraterrestrial visitors. Her groundbreaking methods, first shaped by the Association for Past Life Research and Therapies, set the gold standard for regression therapy in this strange and uncharted realm.Far more than a practitioner, Barbara is also a teacher and mentor to other therapists worldwide, training them to navigate the delicate and often shocking terrain of ET contact. She has taught for leading institutes and boards across the globe, sharing the skills needed to explore these cosmic frontiers of human experience.Currently serving as President of the Academy of Clinical Close Encounter Therapists and as a board member for the Journal of Abduction-Encounter Research, Barbara Lamb continues to stand at the intersection of psychology and the paranormal, pushing the boundaries of what modern therapists and modern science are willing to confront.

In this episode of Everyday Therapy, hosts Brett Cushing, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Dr. Karin Ryan, Licensed Psychologist, break down what ADHD really is (and what it isn't). They also explore how brain differences, neurotransmitters, and executive functioning affect focus, follow-through, and emotions, and they share realistic strategies for living well with ADHD.Whether you've been diagnosed, wonder if you might have ADHD, or love someone who does, this conversation offers insight, validation, and tools you can start using today.Tune in to Discover:What ADHD really means beyond the stereotypesThe neurological science behind attention, motivation, and impulse controlHow ADHD presents differently in men, women, and childrenWhy professional testing and diagnosis matter (and how they work)The connection between ADHD, anxiety, and trauma—and why they're often mistaken for one anotherHow medication, routines, and practical coping skills can make a differenceTips for managing focus, time, and distractions (plus: the “body doubling” technique)Why compassion and self-acceptance are essential parts of treatment Do you have feedback or topic requests? Email us at podcast@nystromcounseling.comWe'd love to hear from you!Follow along:InstagramFacebookNystrom & Associates

Send us a textIn this episode of The Mental Health Business Mentor, we sit down with Omar Ruiz, an amazing guest who believes marketing doesn't have to drain your time, energy, or bank account. Together, Omar and Margo explore simple, high-impact strategies—like optimizing your Psychology Today and Google Business Profiles—that can dramatically increase your visibility and bring in consistent referrals without adding to your workload. You'll learn how clarity, sustainability, and small, strategic adjustments can help you attract more private-pay clients while staying grounded in your values. Whether you're new to marketing or feeling overwhelmed by it, this conversation will show you how to build a steady client flow without burning yourself out.What You'll Learn:How simple, high-impact marketing tweaks can attract more private-pay clients without adding to your workload.The most effective ways to optimize your Psychology Today and Google Business Profiles for consistent referrals.How to build sustainable marketing routines that support your practice without draining your time or energy.Practical steps to improve visibility even if you're not “tech savvy” or comfortable with traditional marketing.Bio:As a featured expert on WebMD, Women's Health, Newsweek, and more, Omar A. Ruiz is a Puerto Rican–born, Boston-raised Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. He has run a successful solo private practice, TalkThinkThrive, for over 11 years, transitioning from insurance-based care to a private-pay model where he specializes in helping couples heal from infidelity.Beyond his clinical work, Omar is now the founder of Private Practice Marketing and creator of the Client Attraction System, an affordable course and coaching program that empowers therapists to market their private practices ethically and effectively, making the process feel less salesy and more authentic. Drawing from both his clinical and entrepreneurial experience, Omar is also a seasoned speaker and podcast guest. He is returning for his third year at the Mental Health Marketing Conference, has been a featured presenter at the Small Business Expo, & is known for offering concrete, actionable advice to therapists in private practice on podcasts such as Practice of the Practice, The Practice of Therapy, Private Practice Elevation, The Therapists Collective, and more.Connect with Omar Ruiz:www.marketyourprivatepractice.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/omar-a-ruiz-lmft-ab1b8738/https://www.linkedin.com/company/private-practice-marketing-llc/Dr. Margo Jacquot is the award-winning founder and Chief Care Officer of The Juniper Center, one of the largest woman-owned counseling and therapy practices in the Chicago area. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and LGBTQ-affirming therapy. Dr. Jacquot is also the host of the "Mental Health Business Mentor" podcast, where she shares insights on running a successful mental health practice. thejunipercenter.com Connect with Dr. Margo Jacquot: Website: thejunipercenter.com Instagram: @thejunipercenter Facebook: The Juniper Center

Have you ever wished for a daily guide on your nervous system regulation journey? One that offers structure without being overwhelming, and personalized support without the need for intensive coaching?In this special announcement episode, Justin introduces a project he's been working on for months: the Self-Regulation Coach. Discover the "middle path" to getting unstuck—a tool designed for those who thrive with daily structure, gentle nudges, and expert guidance right in their pocket.Learn how this AI-powered app creates a personalized, step-by-step roadmap tailored to your nervous system. With bite-sized daily lessons, exclusive micro-mindfulness practices, and instant, compassionate feedback from your AI coach, you can build sustainable change at your own pace.If you're ready to move from feeling stuck to building a life of calm, confidence, and connection, this episode is your starting point.Start your personalized journey with the Self-Regulation Coach today: studio.com/justin/self-regulation-coachResources:

Have you ever noticed old messages about money, morality, or success still lingering—long after you've left a faith community or belief system that once shaped your world? In this episode, I sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Emily Maynard to explore how growing up in or leaving a high-control religious environment can deeply influence your relationship with money. We talk about how these systems teach people—often from childhood—to view money through a moral lens: poverty as virtue, wealth as greed, or sacrifice as proof of goodness. For therapists who grew up in these spaces, those lessons can make it especially difficult to set boundaries, charge appropriately, or believe that rest and success are safe. Emily brings such grounded insight to this conversation. Together, we unpack what defines a high-control religion—not as a specific theology, but as a structure of control, shame, and rigidity that can leave lasting marks on how we see ourselves, our worth, and what we deserve. Healing Money Shame for Therapists with Religious Trauma Histories This episode is for you if you've ever wrestled with feeling selfish for wanting more stability, questioned your right to rest, or found yourself hustling to “earn” worthiness. (00:06:17) Religion Shapes Early Views on Money (00:09:31) Subtle Conditioning in Belief Systems (00:10:37) Healing After Leaving a Group (00:15:41) Sustainability in Healthcare Messaging (00:17:18) Money, Morality, and Control (00:23:16) Building a Sustainable Healing Practice (00:27:03) Money, Religion, and Belonging Breaking Free from Money Shame Rooted in High Control Religious Backgrounds Emily shares what she sees in her work with clients recovering from religious trauma: the body's lingering responses to old patterns, even years after intellectually moving on. We also explore how healing involves learning to make your own choices, rewriting your “job description” in private practice, and creating boundaries that allow sustainability without guilt. Here are a few action steps you can take toward breaking free: Notice the messages you absorbed early on. What stories about money, morality, or sacrifice still influence your financial decisions today? Practice autonomy with compassion. Try writing your own “job description” for private practice. What would feel fair, sustainable, and ethical for you? Challenge inherited shame. When guilt or fear shows up around charging for your work or taking rest, remind yourself: You are allowed to be well. Build new financial safety. Explore ways to connect money with care, not control—so your business can reflect your current values, not your old programming. If you've ever questioned your relationship with money after growing up in faith-based or high-control environments, this episode will help you begin healing the shame, rebuilding trust in yourself, and crafting a business that feels both grounded and free. Get to Know Emily Maynard: Emily Maynard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. She works with adults with trauma, particularly religious trauma and high control religion backgrounds. Emily has a small private practice and is certified in EMDR. She loves Jeopardy and talking about things that make other people uncomfortable, like money! Follow Emily Maynard: Email: emily@emilymaynardtherapy.com Website:

In today's episode, I'm joined by someone whose work feels both timely and deeply needed — Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and eating disorder specialist, Chantia Sturman. She's the founder of Darling, Arise, a powerful self-paced course designed to help moms raise confident daughters who feel at peace with food and at home in their bodies.Chantia has spent years walking with women and girls through healing — from IOP and PHP levels of care, to outpatient therapy, to nearly three years serving in schools. She brings wisdom from every stage of the journey, and she delivers it with a calm strength that mothers will feel the moment she speaks.In this conversation, we talk about:What daughters actually need from us in order to develop a healthy relationship with food and identityHow to speak truth into our girls without making their bodies the focusSubtle ways diet culture sneaks into Christian homes — and how to gently guard against itHow God invites us to root our worth in who He says we are, not how we appearPractical tools you can start using in your home todayAnd how moms can heal their own relationship with food and body so they can model freedom for their daughtersChantia's mission is simple and so aligned with our heart here: to help families build homes where identity, purpose, and God-given worth run deeper than appearance. Through therapy, education, and compassionate guidance, she equips moms with the tools they need to raise girls who walk confidently in who God made them to be.This episode is gentle, rich, and full of the kind of truth that stays with you. Whether you're raising daughters or simply wanting to heal parts of your own story, you will feel encouraged, seen, and strengthened.Grab a cup of something warm, settle in, and join us for this beautiful and important conversation.Find Chantia at:Private Practice: www.tapestrycounselingco.comOnline Course: www.darlingarise.com

Fiachra "Figs" O'Sullivan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Bitcoin maximalist. His unique perspective bridges the psychology of human connection with the psychology of monetary awakening and exploring how pain drives transformation in both domains.› https://x.com/figsosullivan› https://empathi.com/blog/love-bitcoin-and-why-you-wont-change-until-it-hurts-like-hellPARTNERS

In episode 511 I chat with Melissa Mose. Melissa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats OCD. Melissa is president of the IOCDF affiliate OCD SoCal. We discuss her new book for therapists on internal family systems therapy (IFS) for OCD, what is IFS, integrating IFS and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), working with parts that get in the way of therapy, noticing and working with OCD parts, understanding parts of us, understanding OCD parts in detail so that we can notice intuition better, and much more. Hope it helps. Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/episode/melissa-511 The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers effective, convenient therapy available in the US and outside the US. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter 

Darlene Lancer is an author, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and expert in relationships and codependency. Her bestselling books include Dating, Loving, and Leaving a Narcissist, Conquering Shame and Codependency: 8 Steps to Freeing the True You, and Codependency for Dummies. Each reflects her deep understanding of relationships and codependency recovery. Her newest book, Dating, Loving, and Leaving a Narcissist: Essential Tools for Improving or Leaving Narcissistic and Abusive Relationships, zeroes in on the core issue that causes victims of abuse so much unhappiness.  Darlene's ability as an emotional intuitive enables her to identify problems at their source and to draw on her extensive personal and professional experience to find solutions. With over 30 years of providing self-esteem and codependency counseling, Darlene has helped countless women and men recover from codependency and trauma. For her, change requires awareness, courage, action, and being supported to take productive risks when ready. Her helping clients overcome self-defeating beliefs and behaviors enables them to be more self-expressive and enjoy greater life satisfaction.

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Stress, anxiety, and depression are seemingly everywhere and ever-present. Kelli O'Rourke Wall started her mental health journey as a patient and is now a therapist. She talks about the journey from client to helper and discusses her approach to the challenges all of us face in getting the help we need for our mental health. Kelli is a California-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families, empowering and supporting them through actionable healing strategies. Kelli's work and links can be found at Kelli O'Rourke Wall, LMFT. The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at Dose of Reality: Opioids in Wisconsin. More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis can be found at One Pill Can Kill. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host or Westwords Consulting. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!

Soad Tabrizil joins Something For Everybody this week. Soad is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. In this conversation, we explore the complexities of mental health and illness, the importance of resilience in youth, and the impact of societal changes on therapy. We discuss the need for a clear distinction between mental health and mental illness, the role of parenting in fostering resilience, and the challenges posed by gender affirming care. Soad emphasizes the importance of reality in therapy and the need for community support, while I reflect on the significance of agency and choice in navigating life's challenges.  - See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://everybodyspod.com/deals/ - Shop For Everybody  Use code SFE10 for 10% OFF

In this compelling follow-up conversation, I welcome back Jonathan Cogburn, a licensed marriage and family therapist from Texas, to explore a nuanced conservative perspective on mental health services in schools. While we've covered many concerns about ideological overreach in school counseling on this podcast, Jonathan makes a thoughtful case for why certain levels of mental health intervention are not just appropriate but indispensable in our current educational landscape.We dive deep into the McKinney-Vento Act and its implications for students experiencing homelessness - a critical issue that most therapists haven't even heard about. Jonathan shares his extensive experience working with behavioral threat assessment teams and reveals surprising data about successfully prevented school attacks. We explore how schools can create positive cultures that prevent violence upstream, the proper boundaries between school support and parental roles, and why some vulnerable student populations desperately need these services.This conversation challenges us to think beyond binary positions about school mental health services, examining what a "just right" balance looks like that serves students while respecting parental authority and avoiding ideological indoctrination.Jonathan Cogburn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in West Texas who currently works for an agency that provides a variety of support to school districts in his area  In that role he delivers state-required mental health training to districts, supports rural school counselors and homeless student liaisons, and co-leads a team of licensed professionals and school counselors that respond to crises and disasters. Follow Jonathan @SystemicTexism on X or on Substack.MAKE SURE YOU'RE FOLLOWING THIS PODCAST ON ANY PLATFORM OTHER THAN SPOTIFY. Spotify removes episodes for containing copyrighted music, even though I have a license to use my theme song, Half Awake by Joey Pecoraro. It's been a huge pain; I'll release an episode explaining this soon. In the meanwhile, find this podcast on your platform of choice starting here.  [00:00:00] Start [00:02:45] Defining McKinney-Vento and Student Homelessness [00:05:40] Unaccompanied Youth and School Support Systems [00:08:50] Mental Health Professionals' Role in Identifying Homeless Students [00:14:10] Student Leadership Summit and Success Stories [00:18:10] Association of Mental Health Professionals Conference Recap [00:19:45] Detransition Language Discussion [00:23:05] Values and Ethics in School Mental Health Services [00:29:45] Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Explained [00:33:00] Voluntary vs. Imposed Therapy for Students [00:40:13] Problems with Suicide Awareness Campaigns for Children [00:46:00] Overmedicalization and the Origins of Family Therapy [00:51:00] Family Therapy's Historical Role and Modern Challenges [00:55:00] Appropriate Levels of School-Based Intervention [01:04:30] Behavioral Threat Assessment Overview [01:35:30] Restoring School Function and ReadinessROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Now featuring 24/7 personalized AI support implementing the tools with RepairBot! Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month.PODCOURSES: use code SOMETHERAPIST at LisaMustard.com/PodCoursesTALK TO ME: book a meeting.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission. ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

We kicked off the program with four stories and guests on topics we thought you might like to learn more about!In this episode we chatted with:Dr. Adrian Velasquez, Director of Sleep Medicine at Tufts Medicine, about how the time change affects your sleep/circadian rhythm and how to combat the symptoms. Mary Grauerholz, Member of OLAUG (Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage), about their work cleaning garbage out of freshwater ponds on The Cape, and what "treasures" they've found.Saba Harouni Lurie, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Owner of Take Root Therapy, about America's obsession with "doomscrolling" on social media, the "national trauma" associated with it, and how this behavior is considered an addiction.Manny Hernandez, Founder of “The Scream Club” and Men's Transformational Coach, about his "Scream Club" where folks come to "let it all out" on a weekly basis. You can hear NightSide with Dan Rea, Live! Weeknights From 8PM-12AM on WBZ - Boston's News Radio.

It's a wrap on Love Is Blind Denver and I had to bring in the big guns to help dissect all we just watched. Marriage and Family Therapist Vienna Pharaon is back. We're breaking down why Megan really said no to Jordan, Annie's inner child jumping loose, Madison's worthiness issues, Edmond's lack of emotional regulation and so much more!Check out Vienna's book, The Origins of YouTake the free "What's Your Origin Wound" quizTap into her newsletter where you can engage with her every week!Follow Vienna on IG @mindfulmt. Thanks to our sponsors: Get organized, refreshed, and ready for the holidays for way less at ⁠https://Wayfair.com⁠ right now to shop all things home! Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at ⁠https://www.rula.com/ROSE⁠ #rulapod #ad  This episode is brought to you by Quince. To get the softest towels, the best sheets, and the chicest accessories, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.quince.com/2bg1r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping and returns on us! Listen to our PRE-SHOW and watch us on VIDEO only on Patreon. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Rose Garden today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! CONNECT WITH US: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ EMAIL: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠2blackgirls1rose@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Natasha's Substack The Nite Owl: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theniteowl.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 175: Pleasure, Pain and Creepy Fantasy's with Nicoletta Heidegger  In this juicy + deeply validating episode, I sit down with the incredible Nicoletta Heidegger — Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#110256), award-nominated Sexologist, and host of the hit podcast Sluts & Scholars. Nicoletta specializes in sex therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, offering virtual sessions and sessions at her unique ranch office in Los Angeles. She's Stanford and Pepperdine educated, holds a Master's in Human Sexuality from Widener University, and is known for her shame-free, sex-positive approach to healing and pleasure.We go all the way in on a topic so many women deal with silently:Pelvic floor pain and shame around sex.We unpack:• Why pain during sex is actually not normal (even though many of us were told it is)• How shame, fear, and survival responses show up physically in the pelvic floor• Where pelvic tension, pain, numbness, or tightness actually come from• How to begin healing through nervous system regulation + somatic release• How to find the right pelvic floor therapist or sex-positive specialist• What real embodied healing looks like — not just “relaxing”• The power of fantasy, desire expression, and permission to be a little wild• And yes… the unexpected serial killer fantasy conversation (you're welcome

Are you stuck in the cycle of trying to be the perfect parent? In this transformative episode of Live and Be Great, host Latonya McDonald sits down with Todd Sarner, renowned Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Transformative Parenting, to explore how perfectionism, pressure, and digital distractions silently shape family life — and how to break free for good.Together, they unpack what it means to lead with calm, build emotional connection, and raise resilient kids in today's overstimulated world. You'll discover practical, science-based tools for emotional regulation, secure attachment, and conscious parenting — without losing your sanity or yourself.

The threat of toxic masculinity and the manosphere is really concerning especially when you see research showing how more than a third of young men who watch masculinity influencers, act on their advice. But what actually is it? What are the impacts that come with it? And how do we overcome it? To discuss further Pat was joined on the show by Richard Hogan, Author, Family Therapist and Columnist with the Irish Examiner and Dylan Hand, Newstalk Reporter.

How Parents Can Cope When Children Shut Them Out … GUEST Glenn Lutjens … Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who’s been on the Focus counseling team for more than 30 yrs. UFOs, the Paranormal, & Christian Worldview ... GUEST Astrophysicist & author Dr Hugh Ross … senior scholar & founder of Reasons to Believe, an organization that researches & communicates how discoveries about nature harmonize w the words of the Bible … his books include “The Creator & the Cosmos,” “Why the Universe Is the Way It Is,” and “Improbable Planet”. Is there really such a thing as righteous anger? How to survive outrage culture and live like Jesus … GUEST Rev Jay Slocum … rector, St Thomas Anglican Church, Gibsonia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should every therapist truly understand before working with clients who have eating disorders? In this insightful interview, Dr. Marianne Miller talks with Edie Stark, LCSW (@ediestarktherapy) about what ethical, inclusive care really means. Together, they explore why “gold standard” approaches like Family-Based Treatment (FBT) often miss the mark for neurodivergent, fat, queer, and BIPOC clients. The conversation highlights the importance of cultural humility, anti-fat bias awareness, trauma-informed care, and intersectional understanding in every therapeutic setting. Whether you are a clinician, a student, or someone in recovery who wants to understand what quality treatment should look like, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how therapists can grow, unlearn, and create safe, collaborative spaces for healing. Key Topics Covered Why “gold standard” models like Family-Based Treatment (FBT) do not fit everyone How anti-fat bias and wellness culture shape eating disorder care The importance of cultural humility and intersectionality in therapy Ways to create trauma-informed, consent-based, and collaborative care What ethical practice looks like when working with neurodivergent and marginalized clients How therapists can identify and challenge their own internalized biases Why eating disorder work requires humility, continual learning, and self-reflection Who This Episode Is For Therapists and dietitians who want to provide ethical and inclusive eating disorder care Students and early-career clinicians who are beginning to work with eating disorders Supervisors and consultants who guide others in complex clinical cases People in recovery who want to understand what to expect from truly affirming treatment Anyone curious about how bias, culture, and power dynamics affect eating disorder recovery Other Episodes With Edie The Hidden Risks of Non-Specialized Eating Disorder Treatment on Apple & Spotify. The Diet/Wellness Industry, Accessibility, & Diet Culture on Apple & Spotify. Anti-Fat Bias & the Importance of Advocacy on Apple & Spotify. About My Guest Edie Stark, LCSW, is the founder of Stark Therapy Group in California and Edie Stark Consulting, where she supports therapists through business consulting, case consultation, and supervision. She's also a feature writer for Psychology Today and advocates for ethical, media-accurate portrayals of eating disorders. Connect with Edie on Instagram at @ediestarktherapy and @edies_edits, or visit ediestark.com. About Dr. Marianne Miller Dr. Marianne Miller is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist specializing in eating disorders, ARFID, and binge eating disorder. She practices in California, Texas, and Washington D.C., and teaches self-paced, virtual courses through her binge eating recovery membership and her course ARFID and Selective Eating. Learn more at drmariannemiller.com or follow her on Instagram @drmariannemiller.

Health Matters on Midday, where we dig into health topics you might be curious about.  As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, many people find themselves in a funk (Maria Shilaos herself included). For people who crave the sun, the cold darkness of winter can lead to things like seasonal depression. But -- as with major depressive disorder -- hope is not lost. And there are things people can do throughout the winter season to find joy and hope. Gregory Noel, LMFT is the Clinical Director at Two Brothas Counseling in Ogden. He's also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He joins Maria Shilaos to break down why seasonal depression affects some people so much and shares tips on how people can find joy without having to wait until the warm months of summer come again.

What if every argument in your marriage was actually an invitation for deeper connection?

Welcome to season 7 Ep: 264 of Hangin with Da Boys Podcast! Thank you for Hangin with Da BoysDecoding the Mind: What We Get Wrong About Mental Health (Feat. Josee Perrine)Ever wonder what the difference is between a panic attack and anxiety? In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Josee Perrine, a uniquely qualified dual-licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor. We cut through the confusion and get real about common mental health disorders, from anxiety and depression to addiction. Learn what the clinical terms actually mean, how they manifest in daily life, and the critical link between mental health and substance use. Prepare to challenge your assumptions and get the clarity you need to navigate your own well-being. Intro 0:00-1:00Tylenol link to Autism 1:01-9:39Challenges in profession 9:40-13:34Anxiety 13:35-23:22Depression and Alcohol 23:23-40:26ADHD 40:27-40:39Self diagnosing 46:40-50:16Borderline Personality disorder 50:17-55:31OCD 55:32-1:01:15Outro 1:02:16 If you like what you hear, please consider (Rate/Subscribe/Favorite/Share) and please tell a FRIEND!Also check us out on our social platforms:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  @DaBoysPod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  - @DaBoys_Podand our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.DaboysPod.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Risks, Concerns, and Practical Solutions What's the proper way to interact with male colleagues? How should a frum woman dress in the workplace? How do Heimish workplaces compare to secular ones? How should a woman respond to uncomfortable moments – like a handshake or a hug? Should she attend office events, parties, and social gatherings? Host: Ari Wasserman, author of the newly published, revised and expanded book Making it Work, on workplace challenges and Halachic Q & A on the Job with Rabbi Mordechai Torczyner – Moreh D'asra of Congregation Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Park – 12:36 with Mrs. Sara Gordon – sharing her experiences in the Heimish workplace – 36:25 with Mrs. Cohen – sharing her experiences in the Heimish workplace – 47:53 with Mrs. Elisheva Liss – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, lecturer, and author – 56:06 with Mrs. Miriam Brilleman – human resources (HR) executive – 1:38:43 Conclusions and takeaways – 1:53:32 מראי מקומות   

Adolescence can be a whirlwind for teens and their parents. Between shifting moods, social pressures, and the rise of anxiety and depression among young people, many parents are left wondering: “What's normal, and when should I be concerned?”In this episode of Everyday Therapy, hosts Brett Cushing, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Dr. Karin Ryan, Licensed Psychologist, unpack the emotional challenges facing today's teens. From brain development and social media to the pressures of fitting in and the rise in mental health struggles, they break down what parents need to know (and how to help).You'll gain a clearer understanding of what's happening inside your teen's mind and heart, how to recognize when they may need extra support, and ways to build trust through even the toughest conversations.Tune in to Discover:How adolescent brain development impacts decision-making and emotionsWhy loneliness peaks during the teen years and how to help your teen build real connectionsThe link between social media, screen time, and rising rates of anxiety and depressionPractical tips for starting open, shame-free conversations about pornography, peer pressure, and mental healthSigns your teen might benefit from therapy—and what to expect from the processWhat confidentiality looks like in teen therapy (and how parents stay in the loop)Ways to model calm, supportive parenting when your teen resists helpResourcesSagent Behavioral Health Therapy ServicesContact the podcast: Podcast@SagentBH.comSubscribe & ReviewIf you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing to Everyday Therapy and leaving us a review. It helps others discover the podcast and take the next step toward meaningful mental health support. Do you have feedback or topic requests? Email us at podcast@nystromcounseling.comWe'd love to hear from you!Follow along:InstagramFacebookNystrom & Associates

Conflict is normal — even in the healthiest female friendships. But how you handle it can determine whether your bond deepens or slowly fades away. In this episode of The Friendship Tour, Cecelia sits down with Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Ashley Cook, to discuss conflict — why it happens, why we avoid it, and how to navigate it with grace. Ashley walks through the five styles of conflict resolution — avoidance, defeating, compromise, accommodating, and collaboration — and shares why collaboration is often the healthiest approach, though each style has its place. Together, they explore:

Hey, Mama, in today's episode, we're talking with Dr. Corey Allan from Sexy Marriage Radio to dive into healing communication in marriage. As Christian moms, we often juggle so much that our conversations with our husbands can feel broken or strained—but simple, intentional steps can restore connection and bring peace back into your home.Join Dr. Corey Allan and Natalie as they explore practical tools for healing communication, drawing from Corey's expertise as a Marriage and Family Therapist, his Ph.D. in Family Therapy, and his real-life insights from hosting Sexy Marriage Radio with his wife Pam.Corey opens up about how marriage is more about building character and wisdom than just chasing happiness—love is a process that sparks action, and communication is the key to growing deeper spiritually, keeping it simple, staying passionate, living in community, and truly enjoying the ride. Through heartfelt stories, Scripture, and actionable advice, he reveals how healing your communication can dissolve resentment, deepen intimacy, and invite God's transformative power into your relationship.Listen along as you discover the beauty of choosing better conversations with your husband, freeing yourself from overwhelm and embracing a marriage rooted in faith and fun. God's love and grace are ready to work miracles in your heart and home—you don't have to do it alone.Corey is a husband, father, author, speaker, and Marriage and Family Therapist with a Ph.D. in Family Therapy. He and his wife Pam host the weekly podcast Sexy Marriage Radio, where they help couples frame conversations and actions to create a marriage fully alive. Corey founded SMR (smr.fm), an online resource aimed at helping marriages not just survive, but thrive. Pam is a CPA at a small firm in Frisco, TX, and co-hosts with Corey. Together, they're passionate about reminding us that life and marriage are all about choices—and choosing growth leads to passion and joy.Please like, subscribe, rate, review, and share so we can help other mamas who are feeling stuck in their communication breakdowns and marital burnout find joy in their motherhood and marriage journey!Corey's Links:Website: https://smr.fmFollow on all social @sexymarriageradioSponsor:Make Wellness - Biactive Precision Peptides Questions, thoughts, feedback? Send me a text!Connect with Natalie: Natalie's Website: nataliehixson.comInstagram: instagram.com/angrymamacoachPinterest: pinterest.com/nataliehixsonYouTube: @angrymamacoachAcknowledgements: Producer and editor: Skye Hixson Music: Simon Reid www.simonreidmusic.com

Professional therapists from our community join host Evan Gratz on the Point Loma Church Podcast to further discuss the topics covered in the Hard Feelings Sermon Series. Look for "Point Loma Church" wherever you get your podcasts. The podcast is also available in video form on our YouTube Channel This week, we welcome our fourth professional, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist, Kayla Karesh to the Hard Feelings Podcast, where they discuss confusing and competing emotions. Confusion sermon by Rev. Karla Shaw Additional resources related to this week's topic: INTERPERSONAL NEUROBIOLOGY (IPNB) The Pocket Guide to Interpersonal Neurobiology: An Integrative Handbook of the Mind by Daniel J. Siegel  Interpersonal Neurobiology Essentials: A Mental Health Quick Reference Guide by Louis Cozolino  Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices that Can Transform Your Life and Relationships by Curt Thompson  An Introduction to Interpersonal Neurobiology VIDEO   INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS (IFS)  The Spirit‑Led Life: Christianity and the Internal Family System by Mary Steege  Inner Peace: An Internal Family Systems Christian Devotional by Donna Glaser  “How to Adapt Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Christian Counseling”  Introduction to IFS Model  220 | Internal Family Systems & Christianity, Part 1 – OVERVIEW, With Dr. Ioana Popa "Integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Christianity: Transforming Fear into Love Through Connection" with Molly LaCroix

This presentation aims to help clarify and identify domestic violence in Neurodiverse relationships. From lived personal experience, and hearing the experiences of her clients, Brooke has realized that often the warning signs sometimes cannot be easily identifiable. Domestic violence does not discriminate, and can affect all neurotypes. This presentation will explore the reasons why domestic violence can be missed or minimized in the relationship or in therapy, and how this can be very harmful for the victim. Please note: Not all Neurodiverse relationships are abusive, and not all Neurodiverse individuals are abusive, either. Brooke does work with many Neurodiverse couples and individuals that are healthy and safe. If you are in danger or need further assistance leaving a domestic violence situation, please visit: https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsBrooke LaLone, LMFT is a Marriage and Family Therapist located in Rochester, NY. Brooke is a certified Neurodiverse Couples therapist through AANE. Brooke specializes also in perinatal mental health, eating disorders, and trauma recovery. Brooke was previously in a Neurodiverse marriage for 4.5 years, and it did end in 2024 due to irreconcilable differences, and domestic violence. Brooke is now using her experience to help all neurotypes to improve their relationships, heal from their own traumatic experiences, help domestic violence survivors, and provide support for neurodivergent individuals navigating relationships. In her free time, she loves playing with her 3 year old daughter, going on hikes, exploring the Finger Lakes, reading, and spending time with her family. You can contact Brooke at the link below:https://www.brookewardlmft.com/

Lila Galustian is a Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in the treatment of emotional dysregulation and personality disorders. She is the owner and primary therapist at Re-Discovering you, a skills application outpatient. Lila loves helping each client develop a life worth living while increasing their self confidence, she leverages an engaging style that is radically genuine with a dash of irreverence.   We discuss topics including: What is the difference between Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Bipolar Disorder? The screening process of BPD (emotional dysregulation disorder) Understanding Manic and Hypomanic episodes Impulsivity of BPD, Bipolar disorder and the impulsivity around food Pro/Con lists when being impulsive   SHOW NOTES: www.re-discoveringyou.com www.instagram.com/rediscoveringyour10 OTC Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/75UzxplSdG3RYn2q5KqdEi?si=0cbc52de77214cd1 DBT skills Handouts and worksheets: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dbt-skills-training-handouts-and-worksheets-marsha-m-linehan-phd-abpp/1142802001 CBT Skills: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-skills-workbook-barry-gregory/1107763785   ____________________________________________ If you have any questions regarding the topics discussed on this podcast, please reach out to Robyn directly via email: rlgrd@askaboutfood.com You can also connect with Robyn on social media by following her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a review on iTunes and subscribe. Visit Robyn's private practice website where you can subscribe to her free monthly insight newsletter, and receive your FREE GUIDE “Maximizing Your Time with Those Struggling with an Eating Disorder”. Your Recovery Resource, Robyn's new online course for navigating your loved one's eating disorder, is available now! For more information on Robyn's book “The Eating Disorder Trap”, please visit the Official "The Eating Disorder Trap" Website. “The Eating Disorder Trap” is also available for purchase on Amazon.

Maria Lloyd is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing for 24 years, blending neuroscience and integrative healing modalities to support trauma recovery and nervous system repair. As a podcast host and trauma informed coach, her work centers around highly sensitive people and empaths, specializing in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy to help clients reconnect with their inner wisdom and authentic selves. Maria's Websites: www.catalystforhealing.com and www.marialloyd.com

Dr. Angela Deulen is a professor of psychology at California Baptist University, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Christian author, and creator of educational content on her YouTube channel. In this episode, Dr. Deulen explores the fascinating intersection of interpersonal neurobiology and Christian faith, breaking down how our brains are literally wired for connection and how that connection directly impacts our spiritual growth and sanctification. She explains the neuroscience behind key biblical concepts—from how prayer and gratitude reshape our neural pathways to why forgiveness is essential not just spiritually but for our long-term brain health. Whether you're interested in understanding why certain spiritual disciplines work, how to help others regulate their nervous systems, or the surprising neurobiological reasons why community matters so deeply to our faith, this conversation offers both scientific insight and practical wisdom for transforming how you think, pray, and live.https://www.angeladeulen.com/Thanks for joining us for this podcast! If you benefited from this video, please like, subscribe, and send it to a friend who might enjoy it. For more information on counseling, resources, workshops, newsletters, and more, go to samaritanswell.com​. You can also email us questions to cover on the podcast at info@samaritanswell.org.Stay connected:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samaritanswell/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanswelldallasLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/samaritan%E2%80%99s-well/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samaritanswellcounseling?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcNever miss an episode of our podcast! Subscribe now and stay updated with our latest teachings. We also value your feedback, so please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Free Relationship "Talk Time" Guide: https://samaritanswell.thinkific.com/products/digital_downloads/talk-time-guideMusic from Uppbeat:https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/featherlightLicense code: GAUXTZHWAYJROEFLMusic from Uppbeat:https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/all-i-needLicense code: LQFV9XYEQIWRJLNT

How do leaders keep their heads clear and hearts open in the heat of difficult conversations? I ask because it's only natural for leaders (and any human, really) to bristle at opposition to their ideas, critique of their efforts, or recommendations for improvement. Being in community with each other requires a high level of mutual responsibility. But the practice of accountability can activate deeply entrenched defense mechanisms, even in the most self-aware among us (note to self). In part two of my conversation with Julianne Guinasso, LMFT, and co-founder of Level Up Leaders, we explore the challenges leaders face as they try to balance the needs of the collective and the desires of the individual. GUEST BIO Julianne Guinasso is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice and co-founder of Level Up Leaders Inc., where she partners with Poonam Natha to support group practice owners in cultivating psychological safety through trauma-informed leadership. With over a decade of leadership experience, she helps practice owners move beyond performative policies to tend their relational ecosystems, creating collaborative cultures that reclaim joy and sustain vision. *** Join the Group Practice (R)evolution! GPR is a new platform and podcast series offering insights from owners, employees, and experts, and resources to support this wildly ambitious vision for the future. For a limited time, podcast listeners can get a full year of membership for only $19.99 by using the discount code PODCAST.  Visit: https://tinyurl.com/GPRPodcast and click on “have a coupon” and enter PODCAST to enjoy all the perks of Group Practice (R)evolution for a year!  SUPPORT THE SHOW Conversations With a Wounded Healer Merch Join our Patreon for gifts & perks Shop our Bookshop.org store and support local booksellers Share a rating & review on Apple Podcasts *** Let's be friends! You can find me in the following places… Website Facebook @headheartbiztherapy Instagram @headheartbiztherapy  

In this episode, Kristen is joined by Yudit Maros, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Hypnotherapist, to explore how fear of judgment and shame disconnect us from our true selves, and how Yudit's unique approach helps cultivate self-love, inner guidance, and positive self-parenting. www.yuditmaros.com   When you purchase these books through these Amazon links, you're helping support the podcast at no extra cost to you.   Yudit Maros' book: 1. Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love: Tools for authentic living in a chaotic world https://amzn.to/4h6m5cw   Yudit Maros's Book Recommendations:   1. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment: https://amzn.to/4q2orNC   2. Tao Te Ching: A New English Version: https://amzn.to/3KvmtVP   3. The Prophet (A Borzoi Book): https://amzn.to/48j69kG   4. Creative Visualization: Use the Power of Your Imagination to Create What You Want in Your Life: https://amzn.to/4pYbXq4   5. You Can Heal Your Life: https://amzn.to/3WtFCd6   Subscribe and get a free 5-day journal at www.kristendboice.com to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment.  For my full Disclaimer please go to www.kristendboice.com. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.  

Unseen Warrior offers mental health professionals a comprehensive guide to providing clinical services for military personnel and veterans. Drawing on the authors’ more than 50 years of cumulative military service and 35 years of clinical expertise, this book bridges the cultural divide that often exists between military and civilian life. Key insights into values, experiences, and challenges that are important in applying effective therapeutic strategies are presented. With practical tools and a step-by-step field manual, Unseen Warrior empowers you to deliver culturally competent, impactful mental health care to the men and women who have served. Jessica Behne Jessica Behne (Major, USMCR) is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Marine Corps veteran with over thirteen years of service. She holds degrees in Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy and is pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. Jessica teaches graduate-level counseling courses, supervises clinicians working with military populations, and operates a telehealth practice serving veterans and their families. Her research and clinical work focus on the cognitive effects of military training and trauma. Sam Zasadny Sam Zasadny is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and psychologist-in-training. A former helicopter pilot and aviation instructor, he served in multiple deployments before transitioning to the U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps to become a Navy psychologist. Sam holds advanced degrees in international policy and psychology and is completing his Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) at Wheaton College. His professional interests center on mental health, resilience, and the intersection of military service and psychological well-being.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outward change (to our profession, our communities, and our world) can only happen when we start from within—and we're gonna need all the help we can get. Julianne Guinasso, LMFT, is a role model for these contentious times. She's a therapist in private practice and the co-founder of Level Up Leaders, a partnership that helps mental health group practice owners cultivate psychologically safe, trauma-informed work cultures. Our two-part conversation begins with an honest assessment of the "becoming" process and offers some helpful reframes for when things feel especially sticky. GUEST BIO Julianne Guinasso is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice and co-founder of Level Up Leaders Inc., where she partners with Poonam Natha to support group practice owners in cultivating psychological safety through trauma-informed leadership. With over a decade of leadership experience, she helps practice owners move beyond performative policies to tend their relational ecosystems, creating collaborative cultures that reclaim joy and sustain vision. *** Join the Group Practice (R)evolution! GPR is a new platform and podcast series offering insights from owners, employees, and experts, and resources to support this wildly ambitious vision for the future. For a limited time, podcast listeners can get a full year of membership for only $19.99 by using the discount code PODCAST.  Visit: https://tinyurl.com/GPRPodcast and click on “have a coupon” and enter PODCAST to enjoy all the perks of Group Practice (R)evolution for a year!  SUPPORT THE SHOW Conversations With a Wounded Healer Merch Join our Patreon for gifts & perks Shop our Bookshop.org store and support local booksellers Share a rating & review on Apple Podcasts *** Let's be friends! You can find me in the following places… Website Facebook @headheartbiztherapy Instagram @headheartbiztherapy

This week on ShrinkChicks, Em and Jen tackle one of their most requested topics: marriage advice! And as two Marriage and Family Therapists who are married themselves, they definitely have a lot to say on the topic.  From the best (and worst) advice they've gotten themselves, to questions like “How do you know if they're the one?” and “What should we talk about before getting married?”, Em and Jen cover the messy, practical, and surprising truths about love and commitment. They explore what changes after marriage, which flaws are worth putting up with, and why “when you know, you know” isn't always the whole story. Listener questions dig into readiness, money conversations, staying close while changing, and the difference between relational health and chemistry. Plus, in Dear Em & Jen, they respond to a listener navigating how to share pregnancy news with a friend struggling with infertility. Tune in to gain insight, awareness, and action! PS: Fast forward to around 5:30 to skip the intro and get straight to today's content. ⁠Get Matched With One of Our Therapists⁠ at The Therapy Group! ⁠ShrinkChicks on Instagram⁠ Our ⁠Know Yourself Grow Yourself Journal⁠!! Check out ShrinkChicks on YouTube by subscribing here! ⁠https://youtube.com/channel/UCrxuhDqoL4ML3UE8b2J2BBg⁠ Quince: Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠quince.com/shrinkchicks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping and 365-day returns on your next order Greenlight: Start your risk-free Greenlight trial today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greenlight.com/shrinkchicks⁠⁠ Skims: Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at ⁠⁠SKIMS.com⁠⁠. After you place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey, and be sure to select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Mabē: Visit ⁠⁠⁠mabeproducts.com⁠⁠⁠ and use code: SHRINKCHICKS for an automatic $10 discount on your first purchase Green Chef: Head to⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Greenchef.com/50SHRINKCHICKS⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use code 50SHRINKCHICKS to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shipping

This week on ShrinkChicks, Em and Jen tackle one of their most requested topics: marriage advice! And as two Marriage and Family Therapists who are married themselves, they definitely have a lot to say on the topic.  From the best (and worst) advice they've gotten themselves, to questions like “How do you know if they're the one?” and “What should we talk about before getting married?”, Em and Jen cover the messy, practical, and surprising truths about love and commitment. They explore what changes after marriage, which flaws are worth putting up with, and why “when you know, you know” isn't always the whole story. Listener questions dig into readiness, money conversations, staying close while changing, and the difference between relational health and chemistry. Plus, in Dear Em & Jen, they respond to a listener navigating how to share pregnancy news with a friend struggling with infertility. Tune in to gain insight, awareness, and action! PS: Fast forward to around 5:30 to skip the intro and get straight to today's content. ⁠Get Matched With One of Our Therapists⁠ at The Therapy Group! ⁠ShrinkChicks on Instagram⁠ Our ⁠Know Yourself Grow Yourself Journal⁠!! Check out ShrinkChicks on YouTube by subscribing here! ⁠https://youtube.com/channel/UCrxuhDqoL4ML3UE8b2J2BBg⁠ Quince: Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠quince.com/shrinkchicks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping and 365-day returns on your next order Greenlight: Start your risk-free Greenlight trial today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greenlight.com/shrinkchicks⁠⁠ Skims: Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at ⁠⁠SKIMS.com⁠⁠. After you place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey, and be sure to select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Mabē: Visit ⁠⁠⁠mabeproducts.com⁠⁠⁠ and use code: SHRINKCHICKS for an automatic $10 discount on your first purchase Green Chef: Head to⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Greenchef.com/50SHRINKCHICKS⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use code 50SHRINKCHICKS to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shippingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Love should be seen as something which in a sense never ‘is' but is always only ‘becoming', and what it becomes depends up on the contribution of both persons and the depth of their commitment.”~ Karol WojtyłaWhy doesn't arousal come as easily as we expected?How do we make opportunities for intimacy when life is so busy?How can I have honest conversations with my spouse about arousal and our sex life?In Episode 83 of This Whole Life, Pat & Kenna are joined by guest Trisha McKeever, LMFT for Part 2 of the "Holy Sex" series, focusing on arousal within marriage. With honesty, humor, and vulnerability, they explore the real-life intricacies of intimacy, including the challenges of noticing, naming, and cultivating arousal amidst the busyness of family life. The conversation breaks down common myths around arousal, embracing the idea that self-awareness and willingness play key roles in developing a healthy sexual relationship. Drawing from clinical practice and Christian principles, they discuss practical steps couples can take to recognize and communicate their needs, address internal and external “blocks,” and honor each other's differences — whether you're a “rocket” or an “airplane.” Tune in for relatable stories, expert insights, and actionable advice that will encourage couples to integrate faith, emotional awareness, and authentic connection in the bedroom and beyond.Trisha McKeever is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota and has been in private practice for 10 years. She is passionate about incorporating her own Christian beliefs and her perspective as a believer into the healing work that she does with her clients. Trisha also brings the wisdom of 19 years of marriage, and she is the mother of three children.Episode 83 Show NotesChapters:0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards15:01: What does arousal really mean?24:37: Choosing arousal & openness30:33: When the brakes get engaged37:51: Communicating about arousal with my spouse46:32: Gender differences in arousal & readiness56:00: Challenge By ChoiceReflection Questions:What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?How do you define “arousal” in the context of your own marriage or relationship?What are some “blocks” or “brakes” that you have experienced in your sexual relationship? How might you begin to address them?Can you think of a time when a small “yes” led to greater intimacy or connection?Send us a text. We're excited to hear what's on your mind!Register for Figuring It Out: Real-Life Skills for Healthy Minds, Relationships, and Habits, a live, online course for anyone who's ready to thriveSupport the showThank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters! Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.Follow us on Instagram & FacebookInterested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for IntegrationMusic: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.