Therapist Uncensored Podcast

This is part 2 of episode 274, Feel It to Heal It: The Science of Interoception with Rebecca Kase – you can listen to part 1 HERE! Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Feel It to Heal It, Continued: Applying the Science of Interoception (278) This is a sneak peek of our part 2 episode with Rebecca Kase – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! In this half of the conversation, Rebecca Kase and the Sue dig deeper into the concept of interoception, emphasizing its significance in therapy and personal well-being. They discuss how our physiological states influence our narratives and the importance of breath in regulating these states. From the roles of implicit and explicit memory in shaping our experiences to how adaptive and maladaptive memories affect our mental health, they highlight therapeutic approaches to updating narratives and the journey of healing and resilience, providing practical tools for therapists and resources for further learning. “Stay curious… tune into the part of you that has the sense of knowing that something happened, even if you don’t have explicit declarative memory of it… your body remembers that.” – Rebecca Kase, LCSW, RYT Time Stamps for Bonus – Feel It to Heal It, Continued: Applying the Science of Interoception (278) 02:36 The role of breath in physiological state 08:11 The impact of context on physiological responses 10:46 Memory and its influence on our narratives 13:49 Exploring implicit and explicit memories 16:39 Adaptive vs. maladaptive memories 22:27 Therapeutic approaches to updating narratives 30:35 Resources for further learning Listen to Feel It to Heal It: The Science of Interoception with Rebecca Kase – you can listen to part 1 HERE! https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/feel-it-to-heal-it-the-science-of-interoception-with-rebecca-kase-274/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – next Q&A September 5th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount.  

Humanizing the queer experience is vital in art and media Quentin Arispe joins Sue Marriott as they share their incredible journey of self-discovery. Exploring themes of gender fluidity, the impact of theater on personal growth, and the balance between masculinity and femininity – they discuss the role of grief in creative expression. Their conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in the creative process, as well as the transformative journey of humanizing the queer experience through art. “I think everybody can obtain both their divine masculine and feminine.” – Quentin Arispe Time Stamps for The Fluidity of Gender Identity with Quentin Arispe (265) 05:50 The impact of theater on Quentin’s personal growth 17:47 Understanding divine masculine and feminine 21:45 The dichotomy of performance and authenticity 26:07 The role of grief in creative expression 42:07 Embracing duality in grief and joy 56:00 Exploring identity through music 01:17:05 Humanizing the queer experience About our Guest – Quentin Arispe Quentin Arispe is a versatile musician whose genre-blending sound is both innovative and deeply personal. Quentin explores themes of duality, freedom, and self-expression, challenging societal norms while celebrating authenticity and vulnerability. Featured in Austin Chronicle and performing at venues like The Bitter End in NYC, Quentin has also appeared at festivals such as SXSW and ACL. With influences spanning soul, R&B, indie pop, and pop icons, Quentin continues to leave a lasting mark on music. In 2024, Quentin released “As Above, So Below”, a two-part EP series that transitions from introspective indie rock to house-inspired tracks, exploring grief, healing, and liberation. Resources for The Fluidity of Gender Identity with Quentin Arispe (265) “as above,SO BELOW” – Flim by Quentin Arispe “Genre-Hopping Hustler Quentin Arispe Wants to Be in Every Room” – Article from the Austin Chronicle Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!  Next LIVEQ&A coming soon! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s   Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu You’ll get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. Check out DrinkAG1.com/therapistuncensored to get started Thank you for being on this journey with us! 

Explore eco-village living, tantra, and death Lee Warren shares her experience of living in an intentional community and how it opened the door to exploring tantra and the sacredness of death. Alongside co-host Sue Marriott, they explore tantra as a way to connect with the divine within ourselves and others, using tools like breath, sound, and movement to navigate the energy in our bodies. They also discuss death as a sacred process and the importance of preparing for it—both practically and spiritually. Learn how tantra and death preparation share a common goal: helping us embrace the impermanence of life and find joy in the present moment. “The deep practice of tantra helps consciously engage with the inevitability of death.” – Lee Warren Time Stamps 00:00 Exploring Eco-Village Living and Intentional Community 08:23 The Mysteries of Tantra: Cultivating pleasure and sensuality 16:36 Embracing the sacredness of death 21:10 Preparing for death: A journey of self-discovery 31:32 Having hard conversations with family 38:57 Exploring the mystical with psychedelics About Our Guest – Lee Warren, Death & Tantra Educator Lee Warren, founder of Reclaiming Wisdom, helps people embrace life more fully by preparing for death. She sees life and death as inseparable partners, guiding individuals to transform fear into acceptance and empowerment through heartfelt conversations, mindfulness practices, rituals, and personalized care plans. As a mystic, Lee views death as a sacred portal for the soul, and as an embodiment practitioner, she supports the emotional and practical realities of the dying process. Lee believes that contemplating mortality deepens our connection to life, fostering awe, wonder, and a profound sense of purpose. Lee’s mission is to help others achieve clarity and peace about end-of-life wishes while embracing the sacredness of existence and the mystery of the human journey. Resources for Embracing the Sacredness of Death  ReclaimingWisdom.com – Lee Warren’s website & course information “Tilda Swinton Would Like a Word with Trump about His Mother” – NYTimes Article “The Doctor Who Helped Me Understand My Mom’s Choice to Die” – NYTime Article And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!! Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!   Events, Announcements & Resource Links for Secure Relating & the Election Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025 Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice Learn More & Register Here Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount!  Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network! Check out our other past and upcoming events here!!  Our Sponsors for this Episode –  Our favorite skin quencher. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code TU at https://www.oneskin.co/  #oneskinpod   Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms!  Listeners get 20% off plus a free starter kit.  Piquelife.com/tu Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Exploring the science behind the complex acronyms Sue Marriott and Ann Kelley discuss Experiential Dynamic Therapies (EDTs) with experts Margaret Martin and Dr. Deb Pollack. These therapies focus on recognizing and challenging defenses that lead to problems both internally and relationally. Learn the difference between defenses that feel right (Egosyntonic) and those that don’t (Egodystonic) and why it’s important to work against them for change. This episode is a dive into the role of EDTS in individual therapy, and highlights the need for an integrated approach to address underlying trauma, plus much more! “Turning against defenses is key to creating change.” – Dr. Deborah Pollack Time Stamps for Challenging Defenses: An Introduction to Experiential Dynamic Therapies (EDTS) 00:00 Introduction to Experiential Dynamic Therapies 04:07 Understanding Defenses and Creating Change 08:19 Turning Against Defenses 13:49 Building Capacity and Accessing Core Feelings 20:05 Working with Resistance and Anxiety 23:49 Exploring Different Models within EDTs 29:22 Understanding and Working with Defenses 36:14 Building Capacity and Regulating Emotions 39:05 Challenging Defenses and Facilitating Character Change 45:04 Integrating Modalities for Comprehensive Healing 48:31 The Role of the Therapist in Addressing Defenses 54:49 Compassionate and Supportive Therapeutic Relationships About our Guests – Dr. Deborah Pollack & Margaret Martin, LCSW Dr. Deborah Pollack is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Utica University and a clinical psychologist in private practice near Syracuse, New York. She also has faculty appointments at SUNY Upstate Medical University and Syracuse University, where she teaches and supervises doctoral students in psychology. Dr. Pollack is active on the board of the International Experiential Dynamic Therapy Association (IEDTA), serving as recording secretary and on several standing committees. She is the President-elect of the Central New York Psychological Association. Dr. Pollack is a qualitative researcher and most recently has investigated the application of EDT-informed therapy for mothers with postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. She has been studying the EDTs since 2009 and is certified as a Teacher and Supervisor through the IEDTA. She is currently running a core training in ISTDP and she also offers individual supervision in ISTDP for licensed or license-eligible therapists. In her free time, Deb enjoys traveling, sewing, and hiking, especially in the Adirondack mountains where she is working on hiking all 46 high peaks. Margaret Martin, LCSW is an individual and couple therapist practicing in Austin, Texas, where she specializes in complex trauma. She began training with Stan Tatkin, developer of the PACT model, in 2012. She now coaches PACT level one and two students and provides training for the PACT Institute, and hosts a monthly online discussion group for PACT and PACT-curious therapists. In 2022 Margaret completed the PACT Institute’s inaugural invitation-only certification program and is one of 25 therapists worldwide to receive the designation of PACT-certified therapist. In 2019 she began training in ISTDP and developed a passion for incorporating aspects of ISTDP into her work with couples. With colleague Kathryn Barksdale, Margaret co-developed Trauma Wise Therapy, a framework for working with high-trauma couples. Margaret active on the board of the International Experiential Dynamic Therapy Association (IEDTA) and chairs the IEDTA Diversity Committee. A self-described training junkie, she also trained in Somatic Experiencing, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Emotional Transformation Therapy, Brainspotting, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy. She is slightly fanatic about trauma-informed care, deliberate practice for therapists, cats, and fiber arts of any kind. Resources for this Episode – Challenging Defenses: An Introduction to Experiential Dynamic Therapies (EDTS) Margaret Martin, LCSW – Margaret Martin’s website Deborah Pollack, PhD – Dr. Deborah Pollack’s website Check out the most anticipated conference for Experiential Dynamic Therapists!! San Diego, CA – November 13th-15th –  IEDTA’s 2024 conference highlights the power of the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy. Register here!  IEDTA Certified Training –  Info on training in Experiential Dynamic Therapies Application to join the EDT List Additional resources on ISTDP and Experiential Dynamic Therapies Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy by Patricia Coughlin – Recommended by Margaret Martin Reaching Through Resistance by Allan Abbass – Recommended by Margaret Martin Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy: A Reference by Nat Kuhn MD – Recommended by Margaret Martin Treating Affect Phobia: A Manual for Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy by Leigh McCullough, et al – Recommended by Margaret Martin Healing through Relating: A Skill-Building Book for Therapists by Jon Frederickson – Recommended by Margaret Martin Changing Character: Short-term Anxiety-regulating Psychotherapy For Restructuring Defenses, Affects, And Attachment by Leigh Mccullough Vaillant – Recommended by Margaret Martin Mastering Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy: A Roadmap to the Unconscious by Josette ten Have-de Labije and Robert J. Neborsky – Recommended by Margaret Martin The Lies We Tell Ourselves by Jon Frederickson – Recommended by Margaret Martin The Transforming Power Of Affect: A Model For Accelerated Change by Diana Fosha – Recommended by Margaret Martin A Therapist’s Handbook to Dissolve Shame and Defense and Master the Moment by Susan Warren Warshow – Recommended by Margaret Martin Hidden From View: A clinician’s guide to psychophysiologic disorders by Allan Abbass – Recommended by Margaret Martin https://istdpinstitute.com/resources/intensive-short-term-dynamic-psychotherapy-an-introduction/ And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE please please leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!! Events, Announcements & Resource Links  Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount!  Mind, Body, Social, & Spiritual Approaches for Healing Attachment: 30 World-Leading Pioneers Share Their Best Practices – Register now for the Holistic Attachment Summit!! – This summit will explore the most essential ideas in attachment theory, research, and how they can be applied to create deep and lasting healing for clients — enabling you to be at the forefront of evidence-based care. Click here to register!! Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network! Check out our other past and upcoming events here!!  Support this library of content at TU staying FREE and TOTALLY ACCESSIBLE by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode –  Our favorite skin quencher.  Use the code TU when you checkout at oneskin.co Become the best version of yourself and get 15% off Ned products with code TU. Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Bonus – Harnessing “Genius Energy”: The Art of Wise Effort for Growth with Dr. Diana Hill (280) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Diana Hill – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Ann Kelley and Diana Hill dive into the concept of wise effort and its impact on how we manage our energy in both personal and professional life. They explore the difference between life force energy and anxiety, the role of emotional sensitivity, and why community resilience matters. Diana shares insights on how to wisely channel your “genius energy,” break free from stuck patterns, and cultivate compassionate connections that support growth and balance. “It’s not about doing more, but doing wisely.” – Dr. Diana Hill Time Stamps for Bonus – Harnessing “Genius Energy”: The Art of Wise Effort for Growth with Dr. Diana Hill (280) 09:54 Distinguishing life force from anxiety 19:12 Channeling “genius energy” wisely 26:36 Recognizing stuck energy patterns 34:50 Compassion and common humanity 37:01 Co-regulation and wise-energy use 48:22 Harnessing “genius energy” for change About our Guest – Dr. Diana Hill Diana Hill, Ph.D. is a modern psychologist, international trainer, and a leading expert on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and compassion. Drawing from the most current psychological research and contemplative practices, Diana bridges science with real-life application to help organizations and individuals develop psychological flexibility so that they can grow fulfilling and impactful lives. She is the host of the Wise Effort podcast and author of four books including Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, I Know I Should Exercise, But…: 44 Reasons We Don’t Move and How to Get Over Them, The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, and ACT Daily Journal. She has been featured on NPR, Wall Street Journal, Psychology Today, and numerous other media channels. She lives in Santa Barbara, California. Looking for our Upcoming Events? Click here!! Our Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s

A replay episode from our powerful interview with Jeff Lutes, this discussion dives into raising families, the evolution of the community, allyship, gender, and the importance of advocacy. Click Here to View the Original Episode Shownotes   “There are a lot of therapists that see themselves as affirming, but I think you have to get actively involved in order to be an ally.” – Jeff Lutes Time Stamps for Advocating for the LGBTQ+ Community  2:00 – Jeff’s anecdotes about religion and sexuality 11:18 – How advocacy can be a thankless job  12:00 – Introduction to the Contemporary Relationships Conference  14:34 – The difference between being trained in accepting versus educated  16:48 – The importance of knowing the correct terminology  20:39 – What we can learn from the polyamorous community  22:58 – Definition of queer and who that represents 24:37 – Let’s talk about pronouns  31:21 – Explanation of dead naming and why it is wrong 42:15 – Conversion therapy research and findings  47:00: Trailblazers in Love, Jeff’s book  Resources for today’s episode Advocating for the LGBTQ+ Community  Jeff Lute’s Website – Information, credentials, presentations and publications Contemporary Relationships Conference – Conference information and proposals Get your copy of his book, Trailblazers in Love, here!! About our Guest – Jeff Lutes, LPC Jeff specializes in creating collaborative conversations with clients that generate new possibilities for change.  Using a postmodern approach, he listens carefully to each client’s story and strives to understand how they might make meaning of themselves, others, and the world around them. He founded the Contemporary Relationships Conference and has presented to audiences around the country, including the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapy,  the American Family Therapy Academy, the American Counseling Association, and the Texas Psychological Association. He is also the author of Trailblazers In Love, as well as chapters in three counseling textbooks. Lutes also wrote a children’s book about adoption, deaf culture, and non-traditional families and has been a contributing writer at Bilerico and Therapy Matters. Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – Next one is January 23rd! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/TU to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

A replay episode from our powerful interview with Dr. Shena Young Click Here to View the Original Episode Shownotes  “The more that we unlearn, the more that we decolonize our minds, bodies, hearts and spirits” – Dr. Shena Young Join co-host Sue Marriott and Dr. Shena Young as they dive into liberation psychology and the conflict between intuition and the traditional European model of psychology. Dr. Shena highlights embodying a holistic approach to help heal traumas and deeply root us in our most authentic selves. Whether through connections with nature or the exploration of ancestral traditions, this discussion is enriched with various opportunities to reconnect and liberate our mind, body, heart, and spirit. About our Guest – Dr. Shena Young (She/Her) Affectionately known as Dr. Shena (she/her) & spiritually as Iya Osunbunmi Orisasewa, she is a licensed embodiment-focused psychologist–healer, artist, mental health futurist, on-set wellbeing professional, and priestess in the Isese tradition of Ifa. She holds space internationally for individuals, couples, groups, and organizations committed to the ritual of calling themselves back into their bodies as a freedom practice. She owns a private practice, embodied truth healing & psychological services, rooted in Los Angeles, CA where she offers mind–body–heart–spirit care in healing from sexual, racial, intergenerational, and ancestral traumas. Time Stamps for Embodying Liberation Psychology  1:30 – Dr. Shena’s journey with liberation psychology and decolonization 7:25 – Dr. Shena’s early life and intuition 9:48 – Body language is one of our first languages 18:58 – Understanding the pillars of authenticity  20:52 – Embracing the mind, body, heart, spirit approach 28:21 – Unlearning scarcity and expecting abundance 33:29 – Thinking of currency as seeds 41:37 – New interests in ancient traditions 44:11 – What the act of grounding may look like  51:45 – The decriminalization of psychedelic plant medicines  56:30 – There is power in practicing choice 1:05:01 – Impact of The Color Purple Resources for today’s episode – Embodying Liberation Psychology EmbodiedTruthHealing.com – Dr. Shena’s website Healing Opportunities with Dr. Shena @EmbodiedTruthHealing – Dr. Shena’s Instagram Invest in healing programs for BIPOC Dr. Clenora Hudson-Weems website – Where Dr. Shena first learned about Africana Womanist theory Body Rites – Dr. Shena’s book. Get your copy!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Whether it’s your first time in therapy or your fiftieth, Grow makes it easier to find a therapist who fits you, not the other way around. Sessions average about $21 with insurance and some pay as little as $0, depending on their plan. Visit GrowTherapy.com/TU today to get started. Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plan.

Behind every family estrangement is a story of love, hurt, and boundaries Dr. Ann Kelley is joined LIVE from Psychotherapy Networker with Dafna Lender, to explore the complex dynamics of parent-child estrangement. Focusing on the emotional and psychological impacts of cutting off family relationships, together they highlight the cultural influences that contribute to these estrangements, the therapeutic perspectives on navigating such situations, and the importance of empathy and boundaries in managing family dynamics. This conversation is about learning to hold both empathy and boundaries – understanding why someone might step away, and how to stay grounded and compassionate in the process. It’s an honest look at the heartbreak, the healing, and the hope that can emerge when families face difficult truths. Time Stamps for Navigating Family Estrangement: The Space Between Love & Self-Protection with Dafna Lender (284) 03:06 Understanding the impact of estrangement 05:58 Cultural influences on family cutoffs 09:14 Therapeutic perspectives on estrangement 17:54 Boundaries and the spectrum of estrangement 32:52 Navigating boundaries and self-protection 46:31 Finding meaning in senselessness 52:21 Exploring values in relationships About our Guest – Dafna Lender  Dafna is a family therapy expert and attachment specialist. Dafna is an international trainer and supervisor for practitioners who work with children and families. She is a certified trainer and supervisor/consultant in both Theraplay and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), as well as an EMDR therapist. Dafna’s expertise is drawn from 28 years of working with families in many settings: at-risk after school programs, therapeutic foster care, in-home crisis stabilization, residential care and private practice. Dafna is author of Integrative Attachment Family Therapy (2023) and the co-author of Theraplay the Practitioner’s Guide (2020). She teaches and supervises clinicians in 15 countries in 4 languages: English, Hebrew, French and Spanish. Resources for Navigating Family Estrangement: The Space Between Love & Self-Protection with Dafna Lender (284) Dafna’s website – Resources, courses & additional information Integrative Attachment Family Therapy: A Clinical Guide to Heal and Strengthen the Parent-Child Relationship through Play, Co-regulation, and Meaning-Making – Get your copy of her paperback Theraplay the Practitioners Guide – The definitive guide to Theraplay® for practitioners, officially endorsed by the Theraplay® Institute Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – Next one is November 14th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/TU to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

This episode challenges what you thought you knew about autism, attachment, and empathy Join Sue Marriott and Dr. Sean Inderbitzen – an autistic psychotherapist and advocate for neurodiversity – as he shares his powerful personal and professional journey in understanding autism. Together, they explore the evolution of autism diagnosis, the intersections between attachment and neurodivergence, and how polyvagal theory can both illuminate and complicate the autistic experience. Dr. Inderbitzen offers insights on self-diagnosis, identity formation, and what truly person-centered therapy looks like for autistic individuals. This conversation highlights the central role of trust, safety, and authentic connection in helping neurodivergent clients thrive. “…Autism in Polyvagal Terms… is about giving people the tools they need, specifically giving therapists the tools they need to help autistic clients with a lens that really familiar with.” – Sean Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW Time Stamps for Autism in Polyvagal Terms with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen (283) 01:43 Understanding Autism: A personal journey 03:38 Defining Autism: Perspectives and misconceptions 07:11 The evolution of autism diagnosis 11:31 The debate on ‘disorder’ in autism 24:59 Neuroaffirming Therapy: What does it mean? 31:21 Heart rate variability and autism 37:27 Understanding attachment and autism 41:24 The complexity of autism and parenting 44:09 Navigating the ethical quandaries in autism care 57:28 Upcoming events and future works About our Guest – Sean M. Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW Sean M. Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW, an autistic psychotherapist and researcher through Mayo Clinic Health System. He regularly trains healthcare professionals to be more confident when working with people on the spectrum. Resources for Autism in Polyvagal Terms with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen (283) Autism in Polyvagal Terms: New Possibilities and Interventions – Get your copy of his book, here!! Information, resources, books & more! Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – Next one is November 14th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Whether it’s your first time in therapy or your fiftieth, Grow makes it easier to find a therapist who fits you, not the other way around. Sessions average about $21 with insurance and some pay as little as $0, depending on their plan. Visit GrowTherapy.com/TU today to get started. Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plan.

Healing is political — and storytelling is the revolution. José Rosario shares the transformative role of storytelling in healing and liberation. He invites therapists to move beyond traditional coping frameworks and embrace radical healing – an approach that centers cultural wisdom, intersectional identity, and community empowerment. Together, Sue and José discuss how clinicians can respond to hate-based violence, recognize collective trauma, and actively dismantle systems of harm. José also shares his personal journey toward self-acceptance and the playful practices that sustain his work, offering inspiration for those seeking to uplift marginalized voices through creativity and connection. “What a disservice it is to silence ourselves when we have so much to give to the world.” – José Rosario Time Stamps for Storytelling as Medicine: Decolonizing Therapy with José Rosario (282) 05:21 Intersectional identities and personal narratives 11:17 Empathy vs. action in therapy 19:36 Dismantling ableism in therapy 23:08 Understanding hate-motivated violence 31:36 The role of therapists in community healing 36:31 Finding meaning in adversity 38:04 The Phoenix Empowered: A call to action About our Guest – José Rosario  Born to young Puerto Rican parents, José Rosario developed Cerebral Palsy as a premature baby. His family’s journey towards equity deeply impacted his mental health. Currently nearing his PhD in Clinical Psychology, his research focuses on cultural trauma in intersectional communities. He is an Interdisciplinary Minority Fellow for the American Psychological Association, member of the Congressional Diversity and Equality Advisory Board for Congressman James Langevin, and member of the Rhode Island Attorney General Community Advisory Board. He has been honored with the Chris Martin Humanitarian Award and the Victoria Lederberg Award for Excellence in Psychology. Resources for Storytelling as Medicine: Decolonizing Therapy with José Rosario (282) The Phoenix Empowered – Storytelling and education to amplify the experiences of minoritized communities, facilitate an inclusive mental health conversation, and empower systemic change. Phoenix Unbound – Show hosted by José Rosario Enjoying this episode? Check out these other similar TU episodes! https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/decolonizing-mental-health-delivery-with-melody-li-part-1-episode-226/ https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/decolonizing-mental-health-delivery-with-melody-li-part-2-episode-228/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  HUGE OPPORTUNITY, No Kidding!  $199 instead of $499! Superpower’s mission is simple: to democratize health and make proactive, preventive care affordable and accessible for every body. So if you’re ready to stop guessing and start taking control of your health, head to Superpower.com to learn more and lock in the special $199 price while it lasts. Use discount code TU at checkout. Superpower.com Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Stay hydrated and feel your best by visiting curehydration.com/TU and using promo code TU at checkout. With added vitamin and minerals, and an upgraded probiotic blend, the new formula is more comprehensive than ever, helping to support immune health, gut health, energy, and more! Check it out at drinkag1.com/TherapistUncensored

Can we save our relationships – and our democracy – one conversation at a time? Image: The Project Twins – Art from the Braver Angels, Seattle Dr. Ann Kelley sits down with Dr. Bill Doherty to explore the idea of “Citizen Therapists” and how therapists — and all of us — can help bridge divides in a polarized world. Together, they dive into discernment counseling for couples on the brink of divorce, the groundbreaking work of Braver Angels in fostering dialogue across political differences, and the skills we all need for hard but healing conversations. This conversation highlights the power of curiosity, respectful boundaries, and understanding – whether in our closest relationships or across society. “Conflict entrepreneurs, people who make their living using various megaphones to tell us that the people on the other side are evil, and not to be trusted.” – William Doherty Time Stamps for Saving Relationships in a Polarized World: Bill Doherty on Citizen Therapists & Political Healing (281) 08:14 Exploring political divides in relationships 10:58 Braver Angels: Bridging political divides 13:29 The Fishbowl method: Creating safe spaces for dialogue 19:00 Values over policies: Finding common ground 29:13 Boundaries in political conversations 32:43 Understanding political views through stories 37:44 Desire for connection vs. differentiation 44:24 Bringing therapeutic skills to public discourse 51:08 Access to affordable healthcare 01:00:37 Managing family dynamics 01:07:00 Becoming a citizen therapist About our Guest – Dr. William J. Doherty  Bill Doherty is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Family Social Science at the University of Minnesota. As a therapist, he focuses on couples on the brink of divorce and on political stress in relationships. He has authored 14 books for professionals and the public. Following the 2016 U.S. Presidential election, he co-founded Braver Angels, a citizen initiative bringing conservatives and liberals together to counteract political polarization and restore the fraying social fabric in American society. Bill is the chief designer of the Braver Angels workshops and has conducted sessions all over the country, including for corporations, state legislatures, and the Problem Solvers Caucus in Congress. Braver Angels now has volunteers working in all 50 states. Among his awards is the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Family Therapy Academy. Resources for Saving Relationships in a Polarized World: Bill Doherty on Citizen Therapists & Political Healing (281)  Braver Angels – Website and resources leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement “Becoming a Citizen Therapist: Integrating Community Problem-Solving Into Your Work as a Healer” – Purchase your copy by William J. Doherty and Tai J. Mendenhall Enjoying this episode? Check out these other similar TU episodes! https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/tu153-how-good-boundaries-actually-bring-us-closer-replay-with-juliane-taylor-shore/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!!

Trauma to tech: how technology may be reshaping our approach to therapy Benjamin Fry, a psychotherapist and founder of Khiron Clinics, joins Sue Marriott to discuss his personal experience with trauma and how it influenced his therapeutic work. He talks about building his clinic and exploring innovative approaches like EMDR and somatic experiencing, which led him to help develop the PhysioCam—a technology that allows clients to see their nervous system responses in real time. As mental health treatment continues to evolve with new technologies, Benjamin and Sue explore how education and better access to care can support healing and offer hope to those who need it. “For many, the body is not a safe place to go to anymore, so they lose the valuable cues that come from these vital evolved pathways. The PhysioCam helps them recover it, like a pair of crutches help people with injuries to walk again” – Benjamin Fry Time Stamps for Where Entrepreneurship Meets Therapy: Introducing PhysioCam with Benjamin Fry (279) 04:22 Benjamin’s personal journey and early life 13:26 Discussing trauma treatment in America 17:37 Establishing the clinic and innovative therapies 21:50 The necessary evolution of trauma treatment 38:51 Introducing PhysioCam: A new tool in therapy 49:15 The importance of psychoeducation 54:44 Khiron clinics and The Invisible Lion About our Guest – Benjamin Fry, Psychotherapist, Author and Entrepreneur Benjamin is the founder of Khiron Clinics, one of the world’s leading residential trauma-treatment centres, and Televagal, an innovative mental health technology platform. An accredited psychotherapist, couples therapist, speaker, author, and entrepreneur, he has written four books, including The Invisible Lion: How to Tame your Nervous System and Heal your Trauma. With a diverse career spanning psychology, media, and business, Benjamin read Physics and Philosophy at Oxford University and then did an MFA in Film Production at USC, directing a feature-length film distributed by HBO and Paramount. He later went on to set up various enterprises in the hospitality industry before completing an MA in Psychotherapy and Counselling at Regent’s College and an Executive MBA from Oxford University. His first book led to his role as the expert psychotherapist on the BBC series Spendaholics. Benjamin speaks at mental health conferences worldwide, raising awareness of the effectiveness of nervous system-based therapies for treating trauma. He also delivers workshops to help people optimize and heal their relationships through trauma-informe practices and education. Resources for Where Entrepreneurship Meets Therapy: Introducing PhysioCam with Benjamin Fry (279) Khiron Clinics – Benjamin’s global trauma recovery center, information & resources The Invisible Lion – Bejnamin’s recent book on taming your nervous system and healing trauma Televagal – PhysioCam transforms your telehealth sessions into a powerful window into your client’s nervous system Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – Next Q&A September 5th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!!

What if the problem isn’t your body—but the diet culture you’ve been sold? Dr. Ann Kelley and expert Judith Matz unpack the complex relationship between dieting, emotional eating, body image, and weight stigma. Together they challenge conventional views on weight and health, emphasizing that fitness matters more than the number on the scale, and explores why most diets fail both psychologically and physiologically. They also cover the historical roots of fatphobia, the dangers of weight bias in healthcare, and the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic. Judith highlights the importance of attuned eating, informed consent, and compassionate care, offering a weight-inclusive approach to healing our relationship with food and body. “On an individual level, I’d like to see people become free from the diet/binge trap and instead find peace in their relationship with food and their body. On a cultural level, I’d like to see all of us stop putting out messages that blame and shame people about eating and body size.” – Judith Matz, LCSW, ACSW About our Guest – Judith Matz, LCSW, ACSW Judith Matz, LCSW, ACSW, is a therapist, nationally recognized speaker, and consultant on the topics of diet culture, binge eating, emotional eating, body image, and weight stigma. She is co-author of the new Emotional Eating, Chronic Dieting, Binge Eating and Body Image Workbook, as well as The Diet Survivor’s Handbook, Beyond a Shadow of a Diet, The Making Peace with Food Card Deck, and The Body Positivity Card Deck. Judith offers continuing education and training for professionals through PESI as well as customized presentations for a variety companies and organizations. Judith’s work has been featured in the media including NPR, The New York Times, Good Housekeeping and Psychotherapy Networker. She has a private practice via telehealth in Illinois where she meets with clients seeking to heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Find her at www.judithmatz.com and on Instagram @judmatz Resources for Why Diets Don’t Work—and What to Do Instead with Judith Matz (277) Judith Matz – Website, information and resources Emotional Eating, Chronic Dieting, Bingeing and Body Image: What Every Clinician Needs to Know – Judith Matz’s full day PESI training Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia – Book by Sabrina Strings recommend by Judith Matz What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat – Book by Aubrey Gordon recommended by Judith Matz Anti-Diet: Reclaim Your Time, Money, Well-Being, and Happiness Through Intuitive Eating – Book by Christy Harrison recommended by Judith Matz Enjoy this episode? Check out other similar topics –  https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/disordered-eating-attachment-intuition-cultural-influence-266/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – Next Q&A September 5th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!!

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Don’t Cancel – Connect: Loretta J. Ross on Activism with Heart (276) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Loretta J. Ross – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! If you’re tired of cancel culture but still care about justice – this conversation is for you In 2022, we had the privilege of having Loretta J. Ross on the podcast to discuss “Calling in the Call Out Culture”. With the publication of her new book, “Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You’d Rather Cancel” – we felt this message was just as relevant as ever. Together, Sue Marriott and Loretta J. Ross explore the themes of social justice, empathy, and the importance of dialogue in navigating political divides. Loretta shares insights from her book, discussing the need for compassion and under standing in activism. They delve into the complexities of human relationships, the balance between calling in and calling out, and the significance of individual experiences in shaping political views. The conversation emphasizes the power of community engagement and the role of personal growth in fostering a more just society. Click here to get your copy! “I’m not trying to build a bigger call-out culture. I’m trying to build a human rights movement that includes everybody—even the people we don’t like.” – Loretta J. Ross About our Guest – Loretta J. Ross Loretta J. Ross is an activist, professor, and public intellectual. In her five decades in the human rights movement, she’s deprogramed white supremacists, taught convicted rapists the principles of feminism, and, as National Co-Director, organized the second-largest march on Washington (in April 25, 2004, March for Women’s Lives in Washington D.C., surpassed in size only by the 2017 Women’s March). A cofounder of the National Center for Human Rights Education and the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective, her many accolades and honors include a 2022 MacArthur Fellowship and a 2024 induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Today, Ross is an associate professor at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, and is the founder of LoRossta Consulting, with which she runs “Calling In” training sessions online and for organizations around the country. Interested in her previous interview? Check out our original discussion on cancel culture –  https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/call-out-culture-168/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – next Q&A September 5th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount.

Could interoception, your body’s ability to perceive internal signals like your heartbeat, breathing and emotions, be the missing link in trauma therapy? Sue Marriott is joined by Rebecca Kase to explore how understanding the nervous system—especially the concept of interoception—can support healing from trauma. Rebecca shares her personal story as a survivor and highlights the importance of creating safety, tuning into the body’s internal signals, and approaching somatic work with compassion. Together, they unpack how interoception differs from general perception, why it matters in therapy, and how small, gradual steps can help rebuild connection with the body. “Stay curious… tune into the part of you that has the sense of knowing that something happened, even if you don’t have explicit declarative memory of it… your body remembers that.” – Rebecca Kase, LCSW, RYT Time Stamps for Feel It to Heal It: The Science of Interoception with Rebecca Kase (274) 02:45 Rebecca’s journey and healing 05:17 Understanding safety and the nervous system 08:15 Exploring interoception 10:46 The role of perception in therapy 13:33 Connecting with the body 16:15 Practical steps for body awareness About our Guest – Rebecca Kase LCSW, RYT Rebecca Kase, LCSW, RYT is a licensed clinical social worker, yoga teacher, author, and nationally recognized expert in trauma therapy. She’s the founder of The Trauma Therapist Institute, where she trains thousands of clinicians each year in EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, and integrative mind-body approaches to healing. Rebecca is the author of Polyvagal-Informed EMDR and self-help book The Polyvagal Solution, which helps readers understand and work with their nervous system to create lasting change. Known for her warmth, clarity, and deep clinical insight, Rebecca brings science to life in a way that’s accessible, empowering, and rooted in real-world healing. When she’s not writing, teaching, or speaking, you can find her nerding out on neuroscience, gardening, or daydreaming about her next horse property. Resources for Feel It to Heal It: The Science of Interoception with Rebecca Kase (274) The Polyvagal Solution: Vagus Nerve-Calming Practices to Soothe Stress, Ease Emotional Overwhelm, and Build Resilience – Book by Rebecca Kase Polyvagal-Informed EMDR: A Neuro-Informed Approach to Healing – Book by Rebecca Kase The Applied Polyvagal Theory Flip Chart – A Psychoeducational tool to harness the power of the vagus nerve Enjoying this episode? Check out similar topics! https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/addiction-attachment-the-felt-sense-polyvagal-model-with-jan-winhall-193/   Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – Next Q&A September 5th! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – That “Fraud” Feeling: The Surprising Truth about Imposter Syndrome with Dr. Jill Stoddard (273) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Jill Stoddard – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Dr. Ann Kelley is joined by Dr. Jill Stoddard as they unpack the complexities of imposter syndrome—why it shows up, who it impacts most, and how to move through it. Drawing on her expertise in psychological flexibility and values-based living, Dr. Stoddard shares strategies to navigate self-doubt, marginalization, and internalized insecurity. Learn how to reframe discomfort, build a healthier relationship with vulnerability, and use these moments as powerful opportunities for connection and growth. Photo by Orlando Magazine “Imposter ‘syndrome’ is not your fault. It’s the result of a system telling you – you don’t belong at the table.” – Dr. Jill Stoddard About our Guest – Dr. Jill Stoddard  Dr. Jill Stoddard is passionate about sharing her expertise in psychology to help people flourish in their work and health. She is an international and TEDx speaker, award-winning former professor, three-time book author, licensed psychologist, coach, and co-host of the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast which is ranked in the top .5% worldwide. Dr. Stoddard is an entrepreneur who founded Flexible Communications, LLC, in Massachusetts, and The Center for Stress and Anxiety Management in California. Her books have been translated into twelve languages and include: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors; Be Mighty; and Imposter No More. Her thoughts have also appeared in the Washington Post, New York Times, Woman’s World, Today.com, Psychology Today, Scary Mommy, Thrive Global, The Good Men Project, Mindful Return, The Boston Globe, and more. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog. As Central Texas residents, this is highly personal to us in so many ways. We are following up on the absolutely devastating and unprecedented Texas floods with more ways to help from anywhere. I’m thinking of not just the obvious and immediate impact, but of all those actively engaged right now – professional first responders, but also the thousands of regular people pitching in. It’s human connection and grit that will help our communities recover over the next several years. Neighbors (in the largest sense) pulling together are how humans survive natural disasters and we will get through this together. If you are able, please give what you can to help out – Click Here to Donate!! Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount.

Reconnecting to natural, community-based healing radically expands options for mental healthcare. This is a don’t episode if you care about your community. Using grandmothers and indigenous wisdom means effective care is possible everywhere… Sue Marriott continues practical exploration of liberation psychology and communty-centered care by learning from Zimbabwe-based psychiatrist, Dr. Dixon Chibanda.  Don’t miss the first episode about this research based program.  Dr. Chibanda shares his powerful story behind the Friendship Bench, a community-based mental health model that centers healing in the heart of local communities and his new book, launching this week! They explores how grandmothers (not youth or grandfather’s so much – find out why) are often overlooked in traditional mental health systems. Tapping them they can play a vital role in offering care, connection, and wisdom.Dr. Chibanda discusses the barriers to accessing mental health services, the role of storytelling in the healing process, and the global expansion of their research-based program, the Friendship Bench. Grounded in research and lived experience, this conversation invites a rethinking of care—away from over-medicalization and toward more accessible, human-centered approaches. “Every one of us carries a powerful seed that is meant to grow and be shared for the betterment of our community and the world” – Dr. Dixon Chibanda Time Stamps for Indigenous Mental Health, the Friendship Bench with Dr. Dixon Chibanda (271) 02:34 The role of community elders in mental health 05:16 The Friendship Bench: A community-based mental health solution 10:14 The impact of storytelling on healing 13:18 Replication of the friendship bench model globally 18:43 Challenges and obstacles in implementation 32:11 The impact of the friendship bench in urban settings 48:44 Vision for future mental health initiatives About our Guest – Dr. Dixon Chibanda Dixon Chibanda is a leader in the global conversation to democratize mental health care. He is a professor of psychiatry, published researcher, author, advocate, public speaker, and the found of Friendship Bench. He has been featured on the Financial Times, PBS NewsHour Brief But Spectacular episode, Positive News, and has written about his work for The Guardian, LA Times, Project Syndicate and has spoken to audiences at the World Economic Forum, Skoll World Forum, World Health Assembly, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the TEDWomen conference. As a practising medical doctor, professor of psychiatry & global mental health at the University of Zimbabwe and The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Dixon has explored the intersection of indigenous knowledge and western models of care to develop sustainable interventions in global health. His TED talk on why he trains grandmothers to treat depression describes the journey of the Friendship Bench. Over 100 peer-reviewed scientific publications of the program are accessible online. He has been for over a decade a key player in bringing the various stakeholders from local health authorities, health professionals, national and international researchers, and donors together to form successful collaborations. Resources for Where Grandmas & Healing Meet: The Friendship Bench with Dr. Dixon Chibanda (271) The Friendship Bench: How Fourteen Grandmothers Inspired a Mental Health Revolution – Get your copy here! Dixon’s website – Website, resources & information The Friendship Bench – Website, information & resources Friendship Bench Youtube Channel – Videos and other content Enjoy this Episode? Check Out Other Similar Episodes  https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/tu127-friendship-bench/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/TU to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu No dyes, no fragrances, no harmful chemicals—just simple, plant- and mineral-based formulas that you can feel good about using in your home. Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code TU at https://branchbasics.com/TU #branchbasicspod

How do we confront racial trauma with courage and real allyship? Image by Psychwire Dr. Monnica Williams teaches Sue Marriott as they explore the deep psychological toll of racism, focusing on the concept of racial trauma and its cumulative impact on people of color. She highlights the importance of recognizing these experiences within therapeutic settings and the need for diversity in mental health research and practice. The discussion delves into the role of civil courage and meaningful allyship—particularly among white individuals in addressing systemic injustice. Dr. Williams offers insights into the multifaceted nature of activism, the harm caused by microaggressions, and the emotional labor involved in navigating everyday racism. From the fear of law enforcement to the unique challenges faced by white women in activism, Dr. Williams urges practitioners and allies alike to listen deeply, receive feedback openly, and use their privilege to support marginalized communities. “…we’ve looked at the different symptoms of racial trauma, and for the most part, it’s pretty hard to tell the difference between that and PTSD… all those same symptoms are present in people who have racial trauma as well.” – Dr. Monnica Williams Time Stamps for What is Real Allyship When it Comes to White Women and Racial Trauma with Dr. Monnica Williams (271) 05:53 Understanding racial trauma 12:04 The role of white privilege in racism 14:58 The intersection of psychedelics and mental health 18:01 Research on racial trauma treatment 24:01 Therapeutic approaches to racial trauma 34:13 Understanding microaggressions in conversations 36:08 Fear and empowerment: The impact of law enforcement 40:50 The role of white allies in advocacy 46:57 The challenges of white women in activism 52:01 Receiving feedback: A guide for allies About our Guest – Dr. Monnica Williams Dr. Monnica T. Williams is a board-certified licensed clinical psychologist and Professor at the University of Ottawa, in the School of Psychology, where she is the Canada Research Chair in Mental Health Disparities. She is also the Clinical Director of the Behavioral Wellness Clinics in Connecticut and Ottawa, where she provides supervision and training to clinicians for empirically-supported treatments. Prior to her move to Canada, Dr. Williams was on the faculty of the University of Pennsylvania Medical School (2007-2011), the University of Louisville in Psychological and Brain Sciences (2011-2016), where she served as the Director of the Center for Mental Health Disparities, and the University of Connecticut (2016-2019) where she had appointments in both Psychological Science and Psychiatry. Dr. Williams research focuses on BIPOC mental health, culture, and psychopathology, and she has published over 200 scientific articles on these topics. Current projects include the treatment of racial trauma, improving cultural competence in the delivery of mental health care services, and addressing structural racism. She gives diversity trainings nationally for academic programs, scientific conferences, and organizations.Through the Kentucky Psychological Association (KPA), Dr. Williams served as the diversity delegate to Washington DC for the American Psychological Association (APA) State Leadership Conference for two consecutive years. She has served as the African American SIG leader for Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT), and recently served as Chair of their Academic Training & Education Standards (ATES) Committee. She serves as an Associate Editor of Behavior Therapy and the Behavior Therapist. She also serves on the editorial board of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Canadian Psychology, International Journal of Mental Health, the Journal of Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders and the Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. She is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation, and co-founded their Diversity Council. Her work has been featured in all major US and Canadian media outlets, including NPR, CBS, CTV, CBC, Huffington Post, and the New York Times. Resources for What is Real Allyship When it Comes to White Women and Racial Trauma with Dr. Monnica Williams (271) A Clinician’s Guide to Healing the Wounds of Racial Trauma: A 12-Session CBT-Based Protocol – Dr. William’s book Treating Racial Trauma – Dr. William’s online course MonnicaWilliams.com – Website, information & resources If you enjoyed this episode, check out some of our other similar episodes –  https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/navigating-racial-trauma-part-1-203/ https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/racial-trauma-challenges-traditional-therapy-part-2-sriw-series-ep-3-204-2/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/TU to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Amplify Your Voice: Reflections on Mental Health & Meaningful Practice (270) This is a sneak peek of our exclusive Neuronerd episode with Ann and Sue!  Available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Let’s get real about revitalizing the therapy landscape Ann Kelley and Sue Marriott are back for a one on one episode, and sharing their personal reflections on mental health, community, and the evolving challenges clinicians face today. From the tension between accessibility and sustainability in therapy, to the influence of corporate models – they discuss the need for creativity in the field. Emphasizing connection, curiosity, and professional growth, they introduce exciting opportunities, updates, and even a new series focused on inclusivity – inviting listeners to find and amplify their unique voice in the mental health space. Time Stamps for Bonus – Amplify Your Voice: Reflections on Mental Health & Meaningful Practice (270) 06:06 Challenges in mental health care accessibility 08:47 The impact of corporations on therapy 15:02 Encouraging creativity and individual impact 21:49 Listening to your inner self 27:01 Introducing our new series 31:53 Feedback and future directions Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   NOTE: Next LIVE Q&A coming soon June 13th! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!  

Smartphones are changing how an entire generation grows up Art by “Insights into Things Productions” LLC “Only smartphones and social media can explain why teen depression and loneliness increased internationally after 2010.” Dr. Ann Kelley is joined by Dr. Jean Twenge to discuss her groundbreaking research on generational differences with a focus on how technology—especially smartphones and social media—has transformed communication, relationships, and mental health. They explore how historical shifts and longer life spans contribute to delayed life milestones and what she calls the “slow life strategy.” Dr. Twenge highlights the alarming rise in anxiety and depression among Generation Z, which is closely linked to increased screen time and reduced face-to-face interactions. Together they discuss practical steps parents can take to support healthier development and social connection. “Technology and individualism worked together to form a generation whose needs and wants would change dramatically over their lifetimes but who would always be guided by the idea of placing one’s own views and choices first—a concept that led to both greater acceptance of others and more self-centeredness.” – Dr. Jean Twenge Time Stamps for Smartphones: The Truth About Their Impact on Mental Health with Dr. Jean Twenge (269) 3:03 The slow life strategy and relationship dynamics 5:54 Mental health trends in generation Z 8:55 The role of smartphones and social media 11:59 Understanding the psychological effects of constant connectivity 14:55 Recommendations for parents and policy makers 18:09 What alarm bells are accurate About our Guest – Dr. Jean Twenge Jean M. Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University, is the author of more than 180 scientific publications and seven books, including Generations: The Real Differences between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers and Silents—and What They Mean for America’s Future and iGen: Why Today’s Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy–and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood. She holds a BA and MA from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan. She writes the Generation Tech substack. Resources for Mental Health in the Age of Screens: Dr. Jean Twenge on Generational Change (269) “Here are 13 other explanations for the adolescent mental health crisis. None of them work.” – Substack by Dr. Jean Twenge Dr. Jean Twenge – Website, information & resources “Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents-and What They Mean for America’s Future” – Book by Dr. Jean Twenge referenced throughout the episode Other Similar Therapist Uncensored Episodes https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/intergenerational-conversation-climate-202/ https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/tu50-the-psychology-of-an-entrepreneur-surprising-insights-with-guest-krisztina-z-holly/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   NOTE: Next LIVE Q&A coming soon June 13th! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  No dyes, no fragrances, no harmful chemicals—just simple, plant- and mineral-based formulas that you can feel good about using in your home. Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code TU at https://branchbasics.com/TU #branchbasicspod   Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu With added vitamin and minerals, and an upgraded probiotic blend, the new formula is more comprehensive than ever, helping to support immune health, gut health, energy, and more! Check it out at drinkag1.com/TherapistUncensored