The Fertility Journey: Mental Health, Medical Interventions, and Holistic Approaches
Conscious Mental Health
Join Juniper and Laurel in a conversation with fertility coach Shelby VanCleve on the Conscious Mental Health Podcast. We explore the delicate intersection of reproductive health, fertility struggles, and mental well-being.
With her experience as an acupuncturist, Shelby shares insights on holistic approaches to fertility that honor both Western medical interventions and alternative therapies.
This episode dives into the emotional complexities of the fertility journey, addressing the monthly grief cycle, anxiety around treatments, and the importance of proper support systems. Shelby also shares common misconceptions in fertility discussions, emphasizes male fertility factors, and concludes with a restorative Chi shower meditation practice.
Whether you're on your own fertility journey or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers compassionate wisdom and practical guidance.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Who’s Behind Therapy First? The Leaders Dismantling Gender-Affirming Care (part 2)
Conscious Mental Health
Who’s really behind Therapy First and Gender Exploratory Therapy?
In this episode, licensed clinicians Juniper & Laurel discuss the key figures leading the charge against gender-affirming care, diving deep into their backgrounds, affiliations, and influence on trans healthcare policy.
From Stella O’Malley to Sasha Ayad, Lisa Marciano, and the Killarney Group, we investigate how these leaders shape the gender-critical therapy movement, their ties to anti-trans rhetoric, and their opposition to medical standards set by WPATH.
Gender Exploratory Therapy has been labeled a conversion therapy and we continue to share evidence of why in this part 2 companion piece to the organizations behind Therapy First.
🔎 In this episode, we break down:
✅ Who’s leading Therapy First, SEGM, and Gender Exploratory Therapy?
✅ The connections between key players and anti-LGBTQ organizations
✅ How their narratives fuel misinformation and policy changes
✅ The controversy over conversion therapy and gender care bans
✅ What you can do to support trans-affirming care & advocacy
🎧 We want to hear from you! Leave a rating & review, and support Advocates for Trans Equality through our merch store: https://24c56f-17.myshopify.com/
💬 What are your thoughts on these figures? Drop us a comment or DM!
Subscribe for more deep dives into misinformation, trans rights, and the fight for evidence-based care.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
The Truth About Gender Exploratory Therapy: Exposing the Anti-Trans Web (part 2 deep dive)
Conscious Mental Health
In the second installment of our deep dive into Therapy First and Gender Exploratory Therapy, hosts Juniper and Laurel, both licensed clinicians, expose the growing network of anti-trans organizations operating under the guise of “evidence-based” care.
We break down the interconnected web of groups like GenSpec, the Society for Evidence-Based Gender Medicine (SEGM), and Our Duty, uncovering their ties to conversion therapy, pseudoscience, and policy-driven misinformation. From their influence on anti-LGBTQ legislation to their claims about gender dysphoria treatment, we separate fact from fearmongering.
🔎 In this episode, we discuss:
• The “web farm” strategy used to legitimize anti-trans narratives
• How SEGM is influencing legislation and medical distrust
• The real motivations behind gender-critical organizations like Sex Matters
• Conversion therapy rebranded? How “Therapy First” approaches harm trans individuals
• How you can support trans advocacy efforts and counteract misinformation
We encourage critical thinking, respectful discussion, and supporting pro-trans organizations through advocacy, donations, or purchasing our merch!
🔗 Support trans rights: https://24c56f-17.myshopify.com/
Subscribe, rate, and review to help spread awareness!
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
After Billable Hours: 2025 Mental Health Trends: Ins, Outs, and Everything in Between
Conscious Mental Health
Join hosts Laurel and Juniper as they share candid and semi-unhinged predictions about the mental health landscape (and beyond) in 2025.
From rejecting toxic wellness and healing narratives to embracing intersectional feminist rage, dIY Zine culture and public grieving, we share our what we say goodbye to our outs and welcome our ins.
Plus, we even get into some tips for reclaiming rest and identity in hustle culture, share childhood memories of being disagreeable, Juniper is introduced to ACOTAR and Laurel learns about Juniper's Debbie Downer alter ego.
You don't want to miss this hot and sour episode with a hint of salty goodness.
🎙️ Introduction and Meme of the Week (00:00 - 09:01)
📅 2025 Outs (09:02 - 19:17)
🔮 2025 Ins (19:17 - 27:26)
🧠 Mental Health Field Changes (27:26 - 36:16)
👥 Diversity in Mental Health (36:16 - 47:32)
🛌 Rest Revolution (47:32 - 58:14)
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Updates on Unpacking Gender Exploratory Therapy series, and CMH is going on Winter Break! ❄️
Conscious Mental Health
Hey friends! In this quick update episode, Laurel drops in to share where she and Juniper are in the process of producing the gender exploratory therapy series (spoiler alert…it’s a lot more of an in-depth and lengthy process than we anticipated!), and lets everyone know about CMH’s winter break.
Don’t forget that our fundraiser for Advocates for Trans Equality is ongoing! See the links below to direct you straight to where you can purchase these merch items.
We hope you have the end to 2024 that you most need, and we will see you in the new year! ✨🪩🧠
Share your thoughts (and please be civil, hate speech will be deleted)!
All profits from our "Protect Trans Kids" Merch will go directly to Advocates for Trans Equailty
Please share your voice with us! We would love to hear from you!
Record a voice message here.
Send us a comment here.
Apply to be a guest on this podcast here.
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We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Unmasking Therapy First: The Myths and Realities of Gender Exploratory Therapy (PART 1)
Conscious Mental Health
‼️Content warning for sensitive discussions regarding the LGBTQ community. ⚠️
What is Gender Exploratory Therapy, and why is it raising concern amongst therapists and LGBTQ+ advocates? In part 1 of our series, Juniper and Laurel, delve into Therapy First, the organization behind this controversial model. We examine its claims about "exploratory care", and gender-critical approaches, and discuss its implications for trans and gender-diverse communities.
🎙️ Introduction to Gender Exploratory Therapy (00:58 - 02:11)
📚 Interviews and Perspectives (04:12 - 05:12)
🧐 Exploration of Therapy First (05:12 - 09:23) (05:12 - 09:23)
⚖️ Understanding Gender Affirmative vs. Exploratory Therapy (09:23 - 18:38) (09:23 - 18:38)
🔄 The False Binary in Therapy Approaches (18:38 - 27:36) (18:38 - 27:36)
🚫 Discouragement of Transitioning (27:36 - 37:51) (27:36 - 37:51)
🛑 Conversion Therapy Discussion (37:51 - 47:57) (37:51 - 47:57)
📊 Research and Evidence (or lack thereof) in GET (47:57 - 56:06)
🌐 Conclusion (56:06 - 01:07:12)
Share your thoughts (and please be civil, hate speech will be deleted)!
All profits from our "Protect Trans Kids" Merch will go directly to Advocates for Trans Equailty
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
After Billable Hours - Gratitude Fatigue: Why You Don’t Have to Be Thankful All the Time
Conscious Mental Health
Gratitude is great—until it isn’t. 🦃
In this episode, we explore our complicated relationship with gratitude. From the pressure to “stay positive” during the holidays to the rise of forced gratitude culture, we unpack why it’s okay to feel everything all at once.
Random topics explored:
- Blamesgiving
- National Day of Mourning
- Critique of manufactured and forced gratitude
- Gratitude in the mental health field
Featuring a rant about the downfall of dystopian fashion in a rhinestone-filled apocalypse, an ode to bald eagles, a poetry-filled Mad Libs game, and some spicy takes on the gratitude journal phenomenon. Join Juniper and Laurel, discussing balanced gratitude and uncovering the holiday hype that leaves some people deflated.
Spoiler: You don’t have to write five things you’re thankful for every morning to live a meaningful life.
🎙️ Intro & Go-To Responses For Social Greetings (00:00 - 07:04)
🍂 Gratitude and Mental Health (07:04 - 19:41)
🧠 Balanced Gratitude Concept (19:42 - 32:03)
🎭 Mad Libs and Closing (32:03 - 39:22)
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Dopamine & Serotonin Meme Myth Busting; Why Quick Fixes Fail
Conscious Mental Health
From ‘dopamine fasting’ to ‘serotonin diets,’ the internet is full of neurotransmitter misinformation. Is the gut really your "second brain"? Can getting 5 minutes of sunlight "boost" your mood?
Biohacking promises a shortcut to wellness, but what’s the real deal? We bust common myths about neurotransmitters and brain health, shedding light on the science behind these claims. Tune in for a fun, fact-filled conversation with Juniper and Laurel, traveling into the brain and getting to know the "it" neurotransmitters, serotonin and dopamine.
🧠 Introduction to Neurotransmitters (00:00 - 10:30)
🔬 Debunking Neurotransmitter Myths (10:31 - 21:01)
🧪 Neurotransmitters and Mental Health (21:01 - 29:47)
🌞 Critique of Biohacking and Wellness Trends (29:48 - 40:00)
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Psychology Family Dinner: Freud, Attachment Theory & Butter Boards
Conscious Mental Health
Hey everyone! It’s Juniper and Laurel bringing you another episode of After Billable Hours. In this episode, we dive into our memes of the week, share stories from our high school extracurriculars, and play a super fun (and delightfully nerdy) game of assigning famous psychology legends their perfect dishes for the ultimate ‘psychology family dinner.’ Get ready for unserious fun with a side of critical insights and a dash of Psych 101 vibes!
🎙️ Introduction and Context (00:01 - 02:12)
🏆 Highschool Extra Curricular (02:12 - 05:30)
😂 Meme of the Week (05:38 - 08:02)
🧠 Psychology Family Dinner Game (08:28 - 18:18)
🍽️ More Dinner Guests (18:18 - 29:05)
🎓 Final Dinner Guests and Wrap-up (29:05 - 44:46)
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Therapy Terms Explained: What Your Therapist’s Bio Really Means
Conscious Mental Health
Ever read a therapist’s bio and thought, “What does ‘psychodynamic’ even mean?” Welcome to our first CMH Short, where we (allegedly) try to keep things brief. Juniper and Laurel, your friendly mental health educators, are here to give you the lowdown on therapy lingo. We tackle everything from ‘CBT’ to ‘parts work,’ and even the mysteriously vague ‘somatic’ approaches. We break down what these terms really mean and how they show up in therapy. Whether you’re a clinician realizing you might need to simplify your language or a client wondering what you’re getting into, this quick episode has your back.
🎙️ Introduction to CMH Short (00:01 - 05:00)
📚 Therapy Terms Explained (05:00 - 12:07)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness
- Somatic
- Parts work/Internal Family Systems
- Systemic
🧠 More Therapy Terms (12:07 - 23:25)
- Person-centered
- EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
- Psychodynamic
- Motivational Interviewing
🗣️ Therapist Phrases Discussion (23:25 - 29:53)
- Laurel and Juniper rate common therapist phrases on an annoyance scale
- Discuss potentially problematic or overused phrases in therapy
- Reflect on the importance of language in therapeutic settings
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Afer Billable Hours: Monsters, Metaphors, and Mental Health (How Horror Movies Help Us Face Our Fears)
Conscious Mental Health
What do horror films and mental health have in common? In this Halloween episode of After Billable Hours, Juniper and Laurel dive into how the spooky tropes we love (or hate) actually mirror the mental health struggles we face in real life.
From intense grief (The Babadook) to that creeping sense of burnout (Scream), they talk about how watching scary movies can sometimes help us confront our own fears (or the horrors of every day life).
Even if you’re not a horror fan like Laurel, there’s plenty to explore here. Plus, meme of the week and some laughs to keep things light. Join them for a conversation full of laughter, insight, and a little existential dread—perfect for a spooky season (or any day of the year).
🎙️ Introduction and Personal Updates (00:01 - 10:46)
🎃 Horror Films and Mental Health (10:46 - 21:21)
👻 Horror Movie Tropes and Mental Health Metaphors (21:21 - 33:14)
🎭 Doppelgängers & Psychological Themes (33:14 - 44:07)
🧠 Therapeutic Aspects of Scary Movies and Conclusion (44:07 - 54:25)
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
BONUS EPISODE: Therapy Is Not Neutral
Conscious Mental Health
Politics and therapy: two things that seem separate but really aren’t. In this episode, we talk about why therapy is never neutral, how therapists’ political views affect their work, and why advocating for change is just part of the gig.
Therapy isn’t a bubble, and politics can’t be left outside the door. Join us as we unpack the role of politics in mental health work, the ethics of self-disclosure, and the pressures therapists face in politically charged times. From fees to systemic advocacy, we explore how therapeutic neutrality is outdated and why therapists need to embrace their political awareness for better client care.
Whether you’re a therapist or a client, we’ve got some real talk and tips on navigating the messiness of politics in therapy.
Intro to Politics in Therapy (00:00 - 07:43)
•Therapy is inherently political, and neutrality may be outdated
•Two-thirds of therapists report discussing politics with clients
•Why self-awareness is crucial for therapists when addressing political issues
Therapist Neutrality vs. Self-Disclosure (07:43 - 17:00)
•The impact of political discussions on the therapeutic alliance
•How political alignment (or misalignment) can affect therapy outcomes
•Importance of emotional self-regulation when discussing political views with clients
Therapy as a Political Act (17:00 - 28:11)
•How decisions like fees, accessibility, and client demographics are political
•Addressing systemic issues in therapy and the ethical mandate for advocacy
•The privilege of political neutrality and its effects on marginalized clients
Personal Plans and Ethics for Election Season (28:11 - 35:54)
•How to manage political stress during election season as a therapist
•Ideas for creating support groups for therapists around political events
•Engaging clients with games or activities during politically charged times
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Outrage Fatigue is Real: Coping With the Stressors of Politics
Conscious Mental Health
Let’s be real. Politics and elections are exhausting, and the stats back it up: In the US, 65% of people feel drained, and 55% are downright angry. In this episode, we discuss why everyone feels so burned out and what you can do about it. We’re talking about everything from social media outrage to election day stress and offering real strategies to keep your mental health intact. Whether you’re doomscrolling or trying to tune it all out, we have your back.
We discuss how polarization, social media outrage, and partisan identity contribute to the intensity of political stress and share our most annoying and least annoying strategies for coping with political stress.
Whether you’re a therapist helping clients manage election stress or a listener looking for self-care strategies, we’ve got you covered.
Introduction and Context (00:00 - 10:27)
Impact of Political Stress (10:27 - 23:38)
Understanding Political Anxiety (23:38 - 32:32)
Strategies for Managing Political Stress (32:32 - 41:05)
Media Literacy and Engagement (41:05 - 51:07)
Election Day Planning and Self-Care (51:07 - 59:46)
Links mentioned in the episode:
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
After Billable Hours: The Art of Being Disagreeable, Limerence, and Celeb Culture
Conscious Mental Health
In this week’s After Billable Hours, Juniper and Laurel share their memes of the week, highlighting the art of being disagreeable. Then, they tackle the recent Chappell Roan controversy, including the weight of parasocial relationships and the mental health effects of this ongoing social media experiment we’re all living in. This episode highlights the complexities of fame, the nuance of responsibilities, and the necessity for self-care strategies in an uncertain world. Bonus: Self-care strategies for the week and audiobook recommendations!
🎙️Intro and Meme of the week (00:01 - 08:39)
- Juniper and Laurel introduce themselves as mental health professionals
- Discussion about zodiac signs and personality traits
- Laurel shares a meme about becoming disagreeable instead of people-pleasing
- Conversation about the difficulty of being assertive and disagreeable
- Juniper shares a meme about wanting to know everything but struggling with daily tasks
🧠 Morality, Adulting & Productivity (08:39 - 15:59)
- Discussion about assigning morality to everyday tasks
- Conversation about food neutrality and its impact on mental health
- Exploration of the concept of 'adulting' and its various definitions
- Discussion about the pressure to be productive and its roots in the Protestant work ethic
🎭 Celebrity Culture and Social Media (15:59 - 27:06)
- Introduction of the topic of Chappell Roan's recent controversies
- Discussion about celebrities' responsibilities to their fans
- Exploration of parasocial relationships and their impact on fan expectations
- 'limerence' about celebrity obsession
🌐 Social Media Impact and Responsibility (27:06 - 39:13)
- Discussion about the impact of social media on human behavior and relationships
- Exploration of the responsibilities of influencers and celebrities
- Conversation about the challenges of navigating fame at a young age
- Discussion about the need for support systems for public figures
🤔 Reflection and Conclusion (39:13 - 50:26)
- Discussion about the ongoing social media 'experiment' and its unknown effects
- Exploration of the need for nuance in online discussions
- Conversation about self-care strategies in the face of uncertainty
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
After Billable Hours: Spirals, Dopamine Menus & Persistent Drive for Autonomy
Conscious Mental Health
In this “After Billable Hours” episode, Juniper and Laurel banter about anxiety, guilt, and productivity, exploring how societal expectations (a.k.a. the Protestant work ethic and more) can turn even the smallest bit of relaxation or pleasure into a source of stress.
Juniper shares a story about their most recent spirals, while Laurel drinks Grandma Chai tea and discovers her personal brand, “tired.” Together, they embrace their "not-so guilty" pleasures and create “dopamine menus.” With a few random side-quests and practical tips, they share how they personalize ways to recharge without turning it into another to-do list. Spoiler - snacking ranks high on the list.
Random choice generator, in case you can't make up your mind - https://www.textfixer.com/tools/random-choice.php
Key points extracted by our AI assistant Fred:
🎙️ Introduction and Disclaimer (00:10 - 03:01)
🤣 Meme of the Week (03:01 - 07:42)
•Break down a meme about how anxiety turns every little pleasure into a guilt trip.
•Share personal anecdotes about dealing with this anxiety paradox.
•Discuss the never-ending pressure to be productive, especially during the pandemic.
🧠 Dopamine Menus (07:42 - 21:56)
•Introduce the concept of a “dopamine menu”—think of it as a mood-boosting cheat sheet.
•Lay out the categories: starters, entrees, sides, and desserts (because who doesn’t need dessert for their brain?).
•Share personal examples of activities that pack a dopamine punch.
•Highlight the importance of prepping your “ingredients” to make it easier to recharge.
🌀 Spiral Lists and Disrupting the Thought Tornado (21:56 - 30:12)
•Dive into personal experiences with anxiety spirals and how they mess with your day.
•Introduce strategies to interrupt negative thought patterns.
•Reveal the “spiral list” as a tool for turning that mental chaos into something more manageable.
🚿 Facing the Struggle to Recharge (30:12 - 39:18)
•Discuss the very real resistance to doing things that should help you feel better but somehow don’t.
•Share relatable stories about the battle of shower routines and the shock of cold water therapy.
•Emphasize the importance of finding what actually works for you, even if it’s unconventional.
🎲 Roll the Dice: Gamifying the Dopamine Menu (39:18 - 49:08)
•Discuss specific strategies for making your dopamine menu work for you.
•Share quick-hit ideas for instant mood boosts and more involved activities when you have the time.
•Introduce the idea of using dice to turn choosing an activity into a game.
🔄 Wrap-up and What’s Next (49:08 - 56:53)
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Therapy vs Coaching: Riffs, Red Flags & Rabbit Holes
Conscious Mental Health
CW: a few f-bombs, discussion of trauma, mentions of SA and other abusive tactics
What happens when two neurodivergent therapists get deep into a conversation about therapy vs coaching?
It all started with a tweet, and suddenly, Laurel and Juniper found themselves down a rabbit hole, asking: Is there really a rift between therapists and coaches? If so, why?
In this first deep dive, we attempt to stay on track (but let’s be honest, side quests abound) as we untangle misinformation, break down how each profession is marketed, what kind of education is required, and the potential costs—and harms. Plus, there’s a bonus game, Who Said It? where Laurel guesses if the quote came from a therapist or a coach (play along), and a little exposé on debarred mental health professionals now moonlighting as coaches. And of course, we’ll share our best tips for anyone shopping for a therapist or a coach.
- Are you a client of a coach, therapist, or maybe both? We want to hear from you, too!
Drop a comment, send us a voice message, or email. You are invited into this conversation, and we welcome as many side quests, rants, or hot takes as you want to dish.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
After Billable Hours - ADHD, memes and weekly surivial tips
Conscious Mental Health
In this very first episode of After Billable Hours, Juniper and Laurel dive into a whole new format (because we like to keep things fresh, right?). Brace yourself for some laughs, cringey childhood memories, and more ADHD talk than you can spin a fidget at.
“Quote-unquote” alert: Juniper says it… a lot. Like, more than 5 times (they counted), while Laurel manages to keep it at a totally normal level. Be clear, we both say "quote-unquote", is that a therapist thing?
•Meme Picks of the Week: Yes, memes made it into the show. Because of course they did.
•ADHD & Meds: This week, we get real about starting ADHD medication later in life. Spoiler alert: it’s like realizing your brain has been on airplane mode for the past few decades.
•Cringe-worthy Childhood Stories: Let’s just say ADHD in childhood wasn’t always cute. Prepare for some stories that are equal parts cringe, a little sad, and oddly comforting... if you know, you know.
•Tips for the Curious: Are you thinking about ADHD meds? We share some tips and insights for anyone curious about the journey.
So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let us entertain, educate, and maybe even relate with you for the next hour or so.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Non-Violent Communication with Cory Lockhart
Conscious Mental Health
In this episode, Laurel sits down with Cory Lockhart, a teacher, artist, writer, public speaker, and Nonviolent Communication facilitator. Cory shares about her experiences learning and living out the principles of Nonviolent Communication, the ways in which her intuitive, heart-led practices have shaped her own work and life, and the ways in which these practices can intersect in our relationships, both with clients and beyond.
Cory Lockhart is a teacher, artist, writer, public speaker, and founder of Hart Communication, LLC. She facilitates classes and workshops for teens and adults on living and communicating with compassion and speaks to groups about the experiences and ideas that have shaped her. She believes in the fundamental dignity of every person and the interconnectedness of all parts of Creation. Through working as a human rights defender with Community Peacemaker Teams, Cory made a commitment to the practice of nonviolence. She has completed three International Intensive Trainings in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) through the Center for Nonviolent Communication and continues to pursue ongoing training in this field. She is a trained, attuned, and certified Reiki Master in Usui and Holy Fire Reiki. Reiki training and practice awakened her to her intuitive gifts, which led to the development of Heart Portraits. Cory has a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics from Northwestern University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Bellarmine University and a Master of Arts in Spirituality from Bellarmine University and the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Cory lives in Louisville, KY with her two cats, Patty Petunia and Ralphie, who make her laugh every day.
Learn more through her website: corylockhart.com
Want to experience a live workshop?
Join Cory in person on October 5th for Creating Conversations that Connnect: https://mountsaintfrancis.org/creating-conversations-that-connect
Use the coupon code CMH through October 6 for 15% off Cards for Remembering decks, Reading & Reiki sessions, or a Heart Portrait session:
Cards for Remembering and Reading & Reiki sessions: https://www.corylockhart.com/cards
Heart Portraits: https://www.corylockhart.com/intuitive-heart-art
Where to find Cory:Instagram: @coryllockhart
corylockhart.com
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
CMH Is On Summer Break! ☀️
Conscious Mental Health
Laurel drops in to give an update on CMH’s summer break, and all of the awesome Academy of Integrative Mental Health resources you can check out until we’re back in the fall with Season 3! Make sure to give us a like, subscribe, and review while you’re here, so we can keep bringing you awesome, topical, and compassionate resources all year round.
Check out the Academy: https://academyimh.com/
Our online learning library: https://learn.academyimh.com/
We have a YouTube channel! https://youtube.com/@academyintegrativementalhealth?si=pxLt_3N2B2kRsXgl
Or find us on Instagram @academy.imh and @cmh.podcast 🎙️
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
All About Ambivalence: Common Client Conundrums
Conscious Mental Health
In this episode of the Common Client Conundrum series on The Conscious Mental Health Podcast, host Juniper, the director of the Academy of Integrative Mental Health, delves into the complex world of ambivalence.
Key topics include:
- Neurobiology of Mixed Emotions: Understanding what happens in the brain and body when experiencing fluctuating emotions.
- Nature of Ambivalence: Exploring the factors that contribute to ambivalence and how to recognize it.
- Techniques and Strategies:
- For Clinicians and Clients: Effective methods to work with ambivalence.
- Modalities:
- Motivational Interviewing
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Ego States Work
- Fundamental Skills Revisited:
- Empathetic Listening
- Reflections
- Mindfulness of the Righting Reflex
Join us as we revisit these essential yet often undervalued tools, providing insights and practical tips for navigating the intricate terrain of ambivalence in clinical practice.
Bridge Counseling and WellnessBridge Counseling and Wellness uses an integrative mental health approach toward therapy.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
A Better Understanding of ADHD with Gabriel Villarreal, LPC
Conscious Mental Health
In this episode, Laurel chats with Gabriel Villarreal, a licensed professional counselor, the owner of LostBoys Strength and Conditioning and ADHD Counseling, and one of our Academy collective members! This is a part 1 of a two-episode series with Gabriel, and in this first part they tackling the topic of ADHD - what’s helpful, what’s not, what’s current in the research, how social media has influenced our and our clients’ perceptions of ADHD, and more!
Gabriel Villarreal is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. He owns LostBoys Strength & Conditioning, and ADHD Counseling in the Roanoke Valley, the only facility that houses a mental health practice and strength gym in the country. LostBoys S&C offers coaching to children with special needs (e.g., ADHD, ASD, Depression, Anxiety, etc.). Additionally, with his private practice, Gabriel coaches multiple classes specifically for ADHDers of all ages, which has been artfully designed to give clients the medicine exercise offers. Gabriel is an expert in the topic of exercise and mental health. He is a sought after public speaker for gyms, coaches, athletes, and educators, in the Roanoke Valley and beyond.
Where to find Gabriel:
Instagram: @gabrielv_lpc, @lostboyssnc, and @academy.imh
https://roanokeadhd.com
https://lostboyssnc.com
Resources mentioned:
Dr. Ned Hallowell (Delivered from Distraction, Driven to Distraction, ADHD 2.0): https://drhallowell.com/read/books-by-ned/
Weiss Functional Impairment Rating Scale: https://www.caddra.ca/wp-content/uploads/WFIRS-S.pdf
Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scale: https://psychology-tools.com/test/vadrs-vanderbilt-adhd-diagnostic-rating-scale
Support our show: https://www.patreon.com/academyimh
Get in touch: https://www.academyimh.com
Take a course: https://www.holisticmentalhealthschool.com
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Therapy, Advocacy, & the Art of Hope with Molly Fitzgerald King, LPCC-S, LPAT
Conscious Mental Health
In this episode, Laurel talks with Molly Fitzgerald King, a licensed art therapist and licensed professional counselor. They talk not only about Molly’s clinical work, but about the advocacy work she is doing on many different levels, about our understanding of advocacy as professionals, and even our understanding of the narratives that play out for us as professionals in our own lives.
Molly specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and treats individuals with addiction, trauma disorders, depression, and anxiety. Her primary focus is Autism Spectrum Disorder. Molly uses shame resilience methods and mindful self compassion, and loves to incorporate art, dance, yoga, and music into her work. She strives to make mindfulness skills more accessible for people who struggle with sitting still, and to help people find environments where they can thrive. This includes work, school, home, nutrition, movement, creative outlets, relationships, and hobbies. She believes most symptoms bubble up when our environment can’t meet our needs but we still feel stuck there. She focuses on many body based techniques designed to reduce activation.
Molly is the writer of the upcoming play “Asking Toddlers to Do Algebra,” which will debut in the city of Louisville, KY from July 25th-27th, 2024. She is also the originator of Braxton’s Bill, a bill currently in process in the Kentucky State Legislature, focused on mandating long-term substance use inpatient treatment coverage.
Where to find Molly:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/molly-fitzgerald-king-louisville-ky/767152
Support our show: https://www.patreon.com/academyimh
Get in touch: https://www.academyimh.com
Take a course: learn.academyimh.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Common Client Conundrums: Shame & Guilt part 2 (all about shame)
Conscious Mental Health
Welcome to "Common Client Conundrums," a segment where we delve into the everyday issues that are discussed in therapy and share insights and evidence-based interventions. In this episode, host Juniper Owens, LCSW and Director of the Academy of Integrative Mental Health explores the intricate dynamics of shame in part two of our guilt and shame series.
From its cultural influences to its personal manifestations, Juniper uncovers the layers of shame, shedding light on its impact on individuals and communities alike. Join us as we navigate the terrain of shame, discussing its connections to trauma, societal expectations, and personal resilience.
Tune in for insightful discussions, real-life examples, and evidence-based strategies for addressing shame in therapeutic contexts. Together, let's unravel the mysteries of shame and cultivate a deeper understanding of this complex emotion.
In this episode:
- Introduction to Shame: Exploring the nature of shame as a complex and powerful emotion involving feelings of embarrassment, humiliation, and distress.
- Cultural Influences: Examining how shame is shaped by societal norms and expectations and its role as a tool for social control.
- Collective Shame: Discuss how historical events, injustices, and stereotypes contribute to collective shame within cultures or communities.
- Example: Highlighting racial and gender disparities in healthcare and their connection to historical trauma and systemic discrimination.
- Trauma and Shame: Exploring the link between shame and trauma, and how experiences of shame can exacerbate mental health issues.
- Symptoms of Shame: Identifying emotional, cognitive, behavioral, physical, and interpersonal symptoms of shame.
- Shame Resilience Mechanisms: Discussing defense mechanisms and coping strategies individuals may use to protect themselves from shame.
- Therapeutic Approaches: Exploring evidence-based interventions for addressing shame, including self-compassion, psychodrama, and mindfulness.
- Brene Brown's Shame Resilience Theory: Understanding the four aspects of shame resilience and how they contribute to healing and personal growth.
- Societal Views on Pleasure: Reflecting on cultural attitudes toward pleasure and how they contribute to feelings of shame and guilt.
Find references on our blog post!
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
NSSI and the Art of Therapy with Big Emotions w/ Laura Hensley, LPCC-S
Conscious Mental Health
In this episode, Laurel Sims-Stewart, Lead Content Developer at The Academy of Integrative Mental Health, speaks with Laura Hensley, a licensed professional clinical counselor and expert in treating non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI).
She and Laurel discuss 🎙️
🗣️ The importance of understanding the nuances in treating NSSI and addressing our own fear as clinicians in doing this work.
🗣️ She also gives practical tips and tools for walking alongside these clients and offering the most effective support.
Laura Hensley has been a Licensed Clinical Counselor since 2007 and specializes in the treatment of trauma and anxiety with EMDR, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing as her primary theoretical approaches. Laura has done extensive work with clients struggling with suicidal ideation and those struggling with non-suicidal self-injury and has seen great success in treatment through collaboration with these clients.
Laura is also the creator of Navigating a Stressful World: CBT for Anxiety, an online video-based CBT program for individuals struggling with anxiety. The program is ideal for individuals wanting to learn methods for reducing anxious symptoms at home on their own schedule, or as an adjunct to therapy to provide psychoeducation and reinforcement of CBT skills. *Laura is offering our listeners an exclusive discount of 50% for the next 30 days with promo code CMHP
Where to find Laura:
AnxietyHelp4You.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-a-stressful-world
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@navigatingastressfulworld?si=aP42tackQDESvl_Q
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NavigatingAStressfulWorld
Instagram: @navigating_a_stressful_world
Support our show: https://www.patreon.com/academyimh
Get in touch: https://www.academyimh.com
Take a course: https://www.holisticmentalhealthschool.com
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
Latest in Mental Health: Elmo's viral tweet, trauma dumping and loneliness (plus bonus trivia game)
Conscious Mental Health
Join Juniper Owens, LCSW, director of the Academy of Integrative Mental Health, as they delve into the latest trends and topics in mental health on the Conscious Mental Health Podcast. From discussing the viral Elmo Tweet and the concept of trauma dumping to exploring the pervasive issue of loneliness, each episode offers insightful discussions and expert insights into the complexities of the human psyche. Tune in to stay informed, educated, and inspired in your personal and professional development.
What to expect in this episode:
- Elmo's Viral Tweet:
Explore the ripple effect of Elmo's simple yet powerful tweet that sparked an outpouring of emotions on social media. Learn about the heartwarming connections made and the discussions it ignited about the importance of checking in on loved ones and sharing emotional experiences on social media. - Trauma Dumping:
Delve into the concept of trauma dumping, motivated by the overwhelming responses to Elmo's tweet. Understand the thin line between genuine expression and overwhelming others with traumatic experiences, and explore the ethical considerations of sharing on social media platforms. - Loneliness Epidemic:
Uncover the pervasive issue of loneliness highlighted by the surgeon general's special report. Gain insights into the societal and environmental factors contributing to the loneliness epidemic and is profound impact on mental health. - Trivia Game:
Wrap up the episode with a fun and engaging trivia game called Fact or Fiction, where listeners can test their knowledge of mental health facts and myths, from debunking brain-related misconceptions to exploring social phenomena. This trivia game adds a lighthearted touch to the heavy nature of our work and lives.
References:
Boyd, R. (2019, February 8). Do people only use 10 percent of their brains? Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/do-people-only-use-10-percent-of-their-brains/
Clinic, C. (2023, December 14). When venting turns toxic: What is trauma dumping? Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-trauma-dumping
Guo, C., Gilmour, S., Song, P., & Fang, A. (2023). Editorial: Positive or negative? The effect of emerging technologies and products on mental health. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1282385
Healthy Minds Monthly poll: Personal finances were still a major source of anxiety for Americans Le. (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/healthy-minds-monthly-poll-personal-finances-were
Marie, S. (2021, November 17). Understanding the bystander effect. Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/health/bystander-effect
Matthews, D. (2019). Capitalism and mental health. Monthly Review, 49–62. https://doi.org/10.14452/mr-070-08-2019-01_5
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH). (2023, May 3). New Surgeon General Advisory Raises Alarm about the Devastating Impact of the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation in the United States. HHS.gov. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/05/03/new-surgeon-general-advisory-raises-alarm-about-devastating-impact-epidemic-loneliness-isolation-united-states.html
Ogińska-Bulik, N., Gurowiec, P. J., Michalska, P., & Kędra, E. (2021). Prevalence and predictors of secondary traumatic stress symptoms in health care professionals working with trauma victims: A cross-sectional study. PLOS ONE, 16(2), e0247596. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.
We would love to hear from you - Please leave us a review on your listening platform of choice or follow and comment on YouTube!
The Fertility Journey: Mental Health, Medical Interventions, and Holistic Approaches
1:13:25
Who’s Behind Therapy First? The Leaders Dismantling Gender-Affirming Care (part 2)
1:15:12
The Truth About Gender Exploratory Therapy: Exposing the Anti-Trans Web (part 2 deep dive)
1:07:46
After Billable Hours: 2025 Mental Health Trends: Ins, Outs, and Everything in Between
58:36
Updates on Unpacking Gender Exploratory Therapy series, and CMH is going on Winter Break! ❄️
2:40
Unmasking Therapy First: The Myths and Realities of Gender Exploratory Therapy (PART 1)
1:07:29
After Billable Hours - Gratitude Fatigue: Why You Don’t Have to Be Thankful All the Time
39:40
Dopamine & Serotonin Meme Myth Busting; Why Quick Fixes Fail
40:18
Psychology Family Dinner: Freud, Attachment Theory & Butter Boards
44:50
Therapy Terms Explained: What Your Therapist’s Bio Really Means
30:04
Afer Billable Hours: Monsters, Metaphors, and Mental Health (How Horror Movies Help Us Face Our Fears)
53:08
BONUS EPISODE: Therapy Is Not Neutral
36:05
Outrage Fatigue is Real: Coping With the Stressors of Politics
1:00:16
After Billable Hours: The Art of Being Disagreeable, Limerence, and Celeb Culture
50:44
After Billable Hours: Spirals, Dopamine Menus & Persistent Drive for Autonomy
56:40
Therapy vs Coaching: Riffs, Red Flags & Rabbit Holes
1:37:58
After Billable Hours - ADHD, memes and weekly surivial tips
48:20
Non-Violent Communication with Cory Lockhart
1:15:29
CMH Is On Summer Break! ☀️
4:02
All About Ambivalence: Common Client Conundrums
1:01:36
A Better Understanding of ADHD with Gabriel Villarreal, LPC
1:00:25
Therapy, Advocacy, & the Art of Hope with Molly Fitzgerald King, LPCC-S, LPAT
1:09:17
Common Client Conundrums: Shame & Guilt part 2 (all about shame)
35:45
NSSI and the Art of Therapy with Big Emotions w/ Laura Hensley, LPCC-S
1:11:40
Latest in Mental Health: Elmo's viral tweet, trauma dumping and loneliness (plus bonus trivia game)
34:07