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In this conversation, we speak with psychotherapist and author Melissa Fulgieri, LCSW about her powerful book Healing Relational Trauma, which offers a deeply human and integrative approach to understanding the ways our early relationships shape who we become. We explore how awareness, compassion, and self-trust can help us move from survival to connection—transforming old patterns rooted in attachment wounding and developmental trauma.  The conversation also touches on themes of reparenting, nervous system regulation, relational repair, and the ongoing process of finding safety within ourselves and others.

Themes of Discussion

• Understanding Relational Trauma: Moving beyond “big T” events to include chronic emotional disconnection and unmet needs.
• The Legacy of Attachment: How early caregiving experiences shape self-worth, emotional regulation, and intimacy in adulthood.
• Breaking Cycles: Recognizing and transforming unconscious relational patterns that keep us stuck in repetition.
• Embodied Healing: Learning to recognize trauma responses in the body and fostering regulation through awareness and self-compassion.
• Boundaries and Self-Trust: Reclaiming agency and rebuilding a sense of safety when these capacities were never modeled.
• Connection as Medicine: Viewing relationships not as sources of pain to avoid, but as opportunities for repair and growth.
• Integrative Approaches: How modalities like CBT, family systems, mindfulness, and EFT can work together in trauma recovery.
• Cultural & Generational Context: Understanding how family legacies and social systems influence the experience of healing.
• Seeing Wounds as Invitations: Embracing pain as a portal to deeper authenticity, resilience, and relational depth.

Melissa Fulgieri, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, author, adjunct professor, and speaker specializing in trauma-informed care and relational dynamics. With over a decade of clinical experience, she works with individuals and couples to address the enduring impact of childhood trauma on adult attachment, emotional regulation, and interpersonal functioning.

Her integrative framework blends trauma-focused CBT, family systems theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), and mindfulness-based approaches. Melissa is the author of The Couples Therapy Activity Book and Healing Relational Trauma, and is recognized for her grounded, compassionate, and accessible clinical voice. She maintains a private practice in New York and teaches in graduate-level social work programs.

Connect with Melissa:
🌐 melissafulgieri.com

📸 @melissafulgierilcsw

💼 LinkedIn

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Parenting can often feel like a relentless series of checkboxes—milestones to hit, skills to teach, problems to solve. Yet beneath all of this lies something far deeper: the opportunity to cultivate wholeness, authenticity, and love, both in ourselves and in our children.

In this episode, When At the Zoo Watch the Humans author Patrick Ney joins Dr. Pete Kelly for a discussion on reframing how we think about parenting. Drawing from his work with All About Parenting and his own personal journey through trauma, Patrick shares a vision of parenting as a deeply human and relational process—one rooted in connection rather than control.

This wide-ranging conversation touches on key ideas from Patrick’s book, including the metaphor behind When At the Zoo Watch the Humans, the impact of modern media and technology on family life, and the essential importance of community and self-compassion in the parenting journey.

Whether you’re a parent, clinician, or simply someone interested in human development, this episode offers rich insight into the emotional work of raising—and becoming—whole human beings.

Themes & Topics Discussed

• The inspiration behind When At the Zoo Watch the Humans and its central message
• “Wholeness” as a redefinition of success in parenting
• How parents can embrace their natural therapeutic role without feeling overwhelmed
• Balancing love, discipline, and emotional attunement
• Parenting through the lens of trauma recovery and personal growth
• The power of self-compassion and forgiveness in family life
• How modern technology and media shape emotional development
• The importance of community and shared experience in parenting
• Practical strategies for conflict resolution and strengthening parent–child bonds

Patrick Ney is the Lead Trainer at All About Parenting, a global parenting education organization. Over the past five years, he has conducted hundreds of online seminars and workshops, reaching thousands of parents worldwide. His work is grounded in neurodevelopmental and relational principles, emphasizing authentic connection, empathy, and emotional resilience.

Patrick is also the author of When At the Zoo Watch the Humans, a transformative exploration of the psychological and emotional dimensions of parenting. Originally from the UK, he now lives in Poland with his family, where he continues to inspire parents through teaching, writing, and public speaking.

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🎙️ Episode Overview

Clinical documentation: every therapist’s frenemy. For many mental health professionals, paperwork is one of the most persistent sources of stress—filled with contradictory advice, defensive writing habits, and the ever-present fear of audits or legal scrutiny. Add to that an endless backlog of notes and inconsistent training, and it’s no wonder documentation can feel more like a burden than a cornerstone of good clinical care.

With the rise of AI-powered tools—from automated note generation to smart treatment planners—clinicians are hopeful for relief. But new tools bring new questions: What’s ethical? What’s secure? And when does AI truly enhance care, rather than just speed up a flawed process?

Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey, licensed psychologist and founder of QA Prep, joins us to explore the evolving landscape of clinical documentation, how to write better notes with less stress, and how to use AI responsibly while maintaining human-centered care.

💡 Key Themes & Questions

• What are the biggest misconceptions about what needs to be included in clinical documentation?
• The most common documentation pitfalls among early-career therapists—and how to course-correct.
• Finding the balance between clinical thoroughness and legal protection.
• How to tailor documentation to its intended audience—billing, risk management, continuity of care, etc.
• Using documentation as a therapeutic tool, not just an administrative task.
• Key documentation strategies for high-risk situations (e.g., suicidality, child protection).
• How trauma-informed principles can guide respectful and non-stigmatizing notes.
• Best practices for open notes and client portals—writing transparently while maintaining clinical utility.
• Navigating couples and family therapy notes where multiple perspectives intersect.
• The impact of AI tools (scribes, generators) on documentation quality and clinician workload.
• Ethical and practical considerations when integrating AI into clinical workflows.
• Why clinicians must remain the final editors of AI-assisted notes.
• The future of AI in clinical outcome tracking and safety monitoring.
• Addressing concerns about liability and false confidence in AI-generated documentation.
• If Maelisa could change one thing about how clinicians approach documentation—it would be what?

🧠 Guest Bio

Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist, nail design enthusiast, and multi-passionate entrepreneur. Through her company QA Prep, she helps therapists transform documentation from a source of dread into a meaningful part of clinical practice. Maelisa focuses on the why behind documentation standards, helping clinicians think critically and ethically while maintaining their authenticity. Living with ADHD herself, she brings humor, practicality, and real-world insight to her trainings, empowering therapists to write notes with confidence and clarity.

🔗 Connect with Dr. McCaffrey

• Website: QA Prep
• YouTube: QA Prep Channel
• Instagram: @maelisamccaffrey
• LinkedIn: Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey

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In this episode, Dr. Claire Sira and Tom Hudock join me to discuss their new book Feeling Loved with Adult ADHD. We explore how ADHD can quietly undermine even the strongest relationships—and how partners can move from shame and blame to empathy and trust.

Together we cover:

• Emotion dysregulation and its impact on intimacy
• ADHD as a “third partner” in relationships
• Moving from criticism to curiosity
• The “Trust Account” metaphor for building connection
• Navigating over-functioning vs. under-functioning roles
• Shame spirals, defensiveness, and timing in conflict
• Practical tools like boundaries, and empathy skills
• How worksheets and reflective exercises support real change
• Signs of hope for couples who feel stuck or disconnected

If you’re living with ADHD, partnered with someone who is, or working clinically with these dynamics, this conversation offers both compassion and practical strategies.

Dr. Claire Sira Dr. Sira earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from UVic in 2007. After working as a Neuropsychologist at Victoria General Hospital for five years, she transitioned to full-time private practice in 2014. In 2019, she expanded her focus to include assessing and treating ADHD in adults and youth, recognizing the similarity between executive function impairments in adult ADHD and those resulting from acquired brain injuries. As a co-founder of ADHD For Life, Dr. Sira has developed an efficient ADHD assessment process for psychologists and physicians. Additionally, she and her co-founder offer online coaching programs and books for adults with ADHD. Dr. Sira frequently presents on ADHD to healthcare professionals and provides supervision and training to therapists looking to enhance their skills in ADHD assessment and treatment. She also consults with clinics and specialized teams to integrate mental and behavioral healthcare into their services.  Lastly, Dr. Sira is a past president of the British Columbia Psychological Association Board of Directors and is currently serving a three-year term as a Director at Large on the Canadian Psychological Association Board of Directors.

👉 drclairesira.ca

Tom Hudock Known for starting organizations in technology, education, and psychology, Tom Hudock is more than a startup junkie—he is a coach, mentor, advocate, and partner. In a world where leaders are often lauded for being harsh, Tom does it all with compassion for the people, process, and product he seeks to elevate. But like many entrepreneurs, his path has not always been easy. As a young man, Tom left an Engineering degree to develop Canada’s 2nd Microsoft Windows-based Point-Of-Sale software, selling it across North America. After a successful exit to a plastics and paints retailer, he built his consulting expertise with government and big business while co-founding ADHD For Life and Hyperfocus Software.  In 2015, Tom co-founded Rethink Thinking Foundation, a non-profit hosting 250-teen weekend events with headliners like Sir Ken Robinson. He later launched Arc Academy of Inquiry, a registered middle school rooted in self-direction, resilience, and inquiry-based learning. Through challenges and failures came deep lessons and clarity. Today, Tom champions the underdog and finds his strongest inspiration by investing in people with drive and forward-thinking ideas.

👉 https://adhdforlife.com/about-us

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In this conversation, neuroscientist and author Dr. Nikolay Kukushkin joins us to explore some of the deepest questions about the human mind. Drawing from his book One Hand Clapping, Dr. Kukushkin offers a rare synthesis of biology, evolution, and philosophy—challenging us to reconsider not only how the mind works, but what it means to be a mind at all.

Topics & Questions Covered:

• What inspired One Hand Clapping and the central questions it seeks to answer
• The brain as a “singularity” of nature’s complexity and its implications for consciousness
• Consciousness through the neurobiology of psychedelics
• The value and meaning of memory vs. the present moment
• The dopamine “economy” and its links to addiction, burnout, and anxiety
• Why unpredictability—not reward—drives behavior
• “The cortex wants peace, the reward system wants chaos” – reconciling two competing systems
• How social life shaped intelligence and what loneliness does to the brain
• Can AI help us understand our own minds?
• The role of uncertainty in long-term happiness and mental wellness
• Why “life isn’t a problem to solve—it’s something to be experienced”

Nikolay Kukushkin, PhD, is a neuroscientist, writer, and science communicator whose work bridges hard science and human experience. Trained at institutions such as Oxford and Harvard, he has conducted pioneering research on memory formation, synaptic plasticity, and the neural basis of learning. Currently based at NYU’s Carew Laboratory, he investigates the molecular foundations of behavior.

Beyond his academic work, Dr. Kukushkin has written hundreds of popular science articles in both Russian and international media, earning recognition for his ability to combine clarity, scientific rigor, and philosophical insight. One Hand Clapping is his first book in English, following its acclaimed Russian release by Alpina Non-Fiction. He lives in New York with his wife, continuing to explore what makes the human brain not only a machine of thought but a vessel of meaning.

Learn More:
Website: nikolaykukushkin.com

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Clinicians will often hear their clients express deeply felt needs, only to admit they’ve never shared them with their partner—usually due to fear of vulnerability or a defensive, adversarial dynamic that makes intimacy feel unsafe.  In today’s episode, we are joined by Dr. James Cordova—Professor of Psychology at Clark University and creator of The Relationship Checkup—to discuss his new book, The Mindful Path to Intimacy. Dr. Cordova’s book offers a powerful framework for understanding and transforming these relational patterns through the lens of mindfulness, compassion, and shared vulnerability.

In our conversation, we explore:

• Why intimacy is often more terrifying than people expect—and why it’s worth the risk
• How mindfulness can serve as both a spiritual and relational practice
• The idea that attention is the most basic form of love
• Why many couples shift from infatuation to frustration, and what can be done about it
• How interpersonal neurobiology helps us understand the push-pull of closeness and withdrawal
• Ways to navigate shame, trauma histories, and fear of being fully seen in love
• What distinguishes couples who flourish from those who simply coexist. 

Dr. James Cordova is a Professor of Psychology at Clark University and the creator of The Relationship Checkup, a pioneering, preventative intervention designed to assess and strengthen couples’ relationships before problems escalate. He has led major research initiatives—including a $1.3M Department of Defense-funded RCT with Lt. Colonel Jeffrey Cigrang and a $1M NIH grant—demonstrating the model’s effectiveness in both military and civilian populations. As founder and president of Arammu: The Relationship Checkup, Inc., Dr. Cordova is scaling this approach nationwide, training over 1,000 military counselors and integrating the model into primary care. He is the author of The Marriage Checkup, The Story of Mu, and The Mindful Path to Intimacy, the latter of which offers mindfulness-based tools for cultivating emotional and spiritual connection.

To learn more about Dr. Cordova and his work, visit:
https://relationshipcheckup.com
Or check out his latest book, The Mindful Path to Intimacy, from Guilford Press.

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Digital media is changing the way young people experience—and express—mental health struggles, particularly depression. Child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Meredith Gansner, joins us to discuss themes in her new book Teen Depression Gone Viral.  

🔍 Topics We Explore:

• What inspired Teen Depression Gone Viral and the choice to focus on digital media’s role
• Current trends in teen depression—what’s driving the rise?
• Why are so many teens turning to social media for psychiatric education?
• How digital culture alters the presentation and self-understanding of depressive symptoms in adolescents
• Understanding the addictive properties of digital devices and their emotional withdrawal effects
• The risks of social media self-diagnosis—and how clinicians and parents can respond
• Social contagion and the viral spread of mental health content online
• Engaging teens who reject a depression diagnosis
• Screen time: symptom, cause, or both?
• When online communities are helpful—and when they’re harmful
• The critical role of sleep in teen mental health—and how screens disrupt it
• The corrosive impact of pornography
• Online identity-based diagnoses: ADHD, ASD, and the “diagnosis du jour” effect
• How social media shapes teens' attitudes toward psychiatric treatment
• Setting digital boundaries in ways that foster trust and connection

Meredith E. Gansner, MD is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Clinically, she works at Boston Children’s Hospital, where she specializes in the evaluation and treatment of youth with mood disorders, self-injurious behaviors, and emerging psychiatric risk profiles.

Dr. Gansner’s research centers on the intersection of digital media use and adolescent psychopathology, with a particular focus on how online environments shape the presentation and course of depressive symptoms. She is widely published in the areas of psychiatric misdiagnosis, social contagion, and screen-related mental health trends, and is recognized as a leading expert in how digital culture influences youth mental health. Her new book, Teen Depression Gone Viral, was recently published by Guilford Press.

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At first glance, perfectionism looks like an asset; however, the same internal drive that fuels greatness can also erode well-being, leaving success feeling empty and unsatisfying. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Heather Wheeler, psychologist and former elite athlete, to explore the psychology of perfectionism in high achievers. In this conversation we cover: 

• Defining perfectionism: What is it and is it ever adaptive?
• Early Conditioning: The role of coaches, parents, and social environments in shaping perfectionistic traits.
• When It Becomes Harmful: How to recognize when a drive towards excellence is tipping into burnout or mental health risk.
• Identity & Performance: How high performers conflate self-worth with performance—and what happens post-retirement.
• Working with High Performers: Navigating some of the specific challenges that can come with working with high performers 
• Perception by others: How perfectionistic high performers can be perceived by others in an untoward fashion and what can be done about it 
• Evolutionary Significance: The potential evolutionary origins of perfectionism
• Unmet Needs: How leveraging awareness of unmet needs, loneliness and a lack of connection within one's broader life can help high performers achieve a higher quality of life 
• Injury & Recovery: How a perfectionistic mindset can both help and hinder the recovery process.
• Mental Health Risks: Links between perfectionism and anxiety, depression, and eating disorders in high performers.
• Values: Facilitating effective discussions with high performers in therapeutic, parenting and coaching contexts 

Heather is one of Canada’s leading experts at the intersection of mental health and high-performance sport. Recognized for her deep knowledge and skill as a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in performance psychology, alongside her passion and enthusiasm for creating change, Heather’s impact is system-wide; including support for athletes, coaches, sport leaders and organizations across all levels of the Canadian sport system. She has been on the leading edge of the evolution of mental health prioritization in sport in recent years, helping build awareness of the unique challenges related to “mental injuries,” including eating disorders. She is adept at driving high-performance cultures through a series of steps and processes that develop the right conditions for people and organizations to grow to their full potential. As Mental Health Lead for Athletics Canada, Swimming Canada and Canadian Sport Institute Ontario, Heather leads the path for early intervention and treatment of athletes and coaches. She is also the psychologist for the HighPerformance Centre – Ontario (HPC-ON), working with the national swim team athletes and coaches and creating a psychologically-informed environment. She has been supporting high-performance and world-class athletes and coaches on their journey up to and including the Olympics and Paralympics since 2008 and is a provider for Game Plan’s Mental Health Network. Heather has over two decades of experience providing psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment to diverse populations, in both private practice and the public healthcare system.  Beyond clinical practice and leadership roles, Heather is a sought-after keynote speaker and workshop facilitator, known for creating engaging, transformative experiences and workshops related to mental health for high-performers. 

www.heatherwheeler.com 

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Dr. Chris Taplin,a psychiatrist and founder of Ottawa’s TMS Life clinic, joins us for a deep dive into one of the most promising frontiers in psychiatric care: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS. As clinicians, many of us have encountered the heartbreak of treatment-resistant depression — watching clients struggle despite best-practice psychotherapy and pharmacology. TMS offers a non-invasive, evidence-based alternative that is reshaping how we approach these cases. In this conversation, we unpack the science, patient experience, clinical decision-making, and broader implications of this technology. Whether you’re a skeptic, a curious clinician, or already working with neuromodulation, I think you’ll find this a thoughtful, grounded look at where TMS fits in the future of mental health treatment.

Topics We Cover:
🧠 Understanding TMS
– What is TMS, and how does it work?
– FDA-approved indications vs. emerging off-label uses
– How TMS compares to ECT and other neuromodulation tools

🪑 The Patient Experience
– What a typical TMS session looks and feels like
– Common side effects and time course of therapeutic response
– What patients report during and after a course of treatment

🔬 Mechanisms and Research
– What brain mechanisms underlie TMS’s effectiveness?
– Neuroplasticity and circuit-level change
– Emerging biomarkers and predictors of treatment response

🌍 Broader Impacts
– How TMS is shifting the landscape for treatment-resistant depression
– What’s new and exciting in TMS research
– Future directions: Could TMS expand to anxiety, PTSD, or neurological conditions?

⚖️ Practical and Ethical Considerations
– Barriers to access and systemic challenges
– How to assess if a patient is a good candidate
– Ethical issues in offering brain-based treatments

👥 Personal Insights
– Dr. Taplin’s journey into TMS
– A powerful patient success story
– Guidance for clinicians exploring TMS integration

Dr. Chris Taplin, MD, FRCPC is a board-certified psychiatrist and the founder of TMS Life, a leading mental health clinic based in Ottawa, Ontario. He specializes in the treatment of complex and treatment-resistant mental health conditions, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sports-related psychiatric concerns.

Dr. Taplin is a nationally recognized expert in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and completed specialized training in repetitive TMS at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). His clinical approach integrates TMS with evidence-based psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and interpersonal therapy, offering a comprehensive and individualized care model for his patients.

A graduate of the University of British Columbia, Dr. Taplin completed his psychiatry residency in Ontario and has been in independent practice since 2022. He is deeply committed to improving access to innovative treatments and has contributed to academic efforts aimed at enhancing psychiatric education and recruitment.

Outside of his clinical work, Dr. Taplin enjoys spending time with his family, rock climbing, and connecting with nature.

tmslife.com 

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Joe Pierre, psychiatrist and author of False, to explore why people believe things that aren’t true—and why challenging those beliefs is rarely as simple as presenting the facts. Drawing from research in psychiatry, cognitive science, and social psychology, Dr. Pierre unpacks the emotional, identity-based, and relational roots of misinformation and conspiratorial thinking.  Whether you’re a clinician, educator, or simply someone trying to make sense of our “post-truth” era, this conversation offers an evidence-based look at the psychology behind false beliefs. In this conversation we discuss: 

• Why smart people believe irrational things  
• The emotional and identity functions of conspiracy theories  
• How misinformation spreads—and why it's so sticky  
• The limits of fact-checking and logic-based persuasion  
• The "prognosis" for someone who believes in conspiracy theories  
• The role of mental illness in extreme beliefs (and where the line is)  
• Online echo chambers, tribalism, and distrust in institutions  
• The psychological appeal of certainty in uncertain times  
• Strategies for promoting critical thinking and intellectual humility  

Bio: Joe Pierre, MD, is a clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. With a background in both molecular biology and psychology from MIT and medical training at UCLA, Dr. Pierre’s career has focused on severe mental illness, particularly psychotic disorders. In addition to his clinical work, he’s a prolific writer and commentator on the psychology of belief, delusion, and misinformation. His Psych Unseen column for Psychology Today explores the intersection of psychiatry, media, and culture. False is his definitive exploration of why we believe things that aren’t true, and what that means for our mental health and collective future.

drjoepierre.com

psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psych-unseen

@psychunseen

@psychunseen.bsky.social

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Scott Waltman and Kasey Pierce coauthors, along with Trent Codd, Ed.S of The Stoicism Workbook - to explore how ancient Stoic philosophy can offer powerful tools for managing today’s challenges. From emotional resilience and anxiety to self-compassion and values-driven living, we unpack how timeless Stoic principles can help you navigate stress, uncertainty, and personal growth.

Whether you’re a mental health professional, a fan of philosophy, or just someone looking for practical ways to feel more grounded, this conversation brings Stoicism down to earth—with insights that align closely with many therapeutic frameworks.

We discuss:

• What Stoicism is and why it’s still relevant
• The Stoic approach to emotional resilience and anxiety
• The difference between values and virtues
• How to apply Stoic practices in daily life
• Building tolerance for discomfort and uncertainty
• Transforming self-criticism into self-compassion
• Socratic questioning as a tool for insight and change
• Embracing acceptance without falling into complacency
• Cultivating wisdom and living in alignment with what matters most

Scott Waltman, PsyD, ABPP, is a clinician, international trainer, and practice-based researcher. His interests include evidence-based psychotherapy practice, training, and implementation in systems that provide care to underserved populations. He is president-elect of both the Academy of Cognitive & Behavioral Therapies and  the International Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. He is board certified in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology from the American Board of Professional Psychology. Dr. Waltman, worked as a CBT trainer for one of Dr. Aaron Beck’s CBT implementation teams in the Philadelphia public mental health system. He is a practicing Stoic and the first author of The Stoicism Workbook: How the Wisdom of Socrates Can Help You Build Resilience and Overcome Anything Life Throws at You. 

Kasey Pierce is a writer and Stoicism columnist from the metro Detroit area. She has contributed as a freelance content editor for Donald Robertson's “Verissimus” (St. Martin’s Press) and serves as the editor of Tim LeBon's “365 Ways to Be More Stoic” (John Murray Press). Kasey recently coauthored “The Stoicism Workbook” with CBT practitioners Scott Waltman and R. Trent Codd. Additionally, she is the. communications director for Plato’s Academy Centre, a nonprofit in Athens, Greece, dedicated to promoting philosophy as a way of life. Kasey's passion lies in making the intersection of Stoic philosophy and cognitive behavioral therapy accessible to everyday people, using relatable examples and humor to enhance understanding and application. 

https://www.instagram.com/socraticmethodcbt/

https://www.instagram.com/kcdwrites/

www.trentcodd.com

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Building emotional security and navigating conflict with intention often defines the success of our closest relationships.  Join us for an in-depth discussion with psychologist Dr. Betsy Chung to explore these and other topics explored in her new book The Couple Skills Workbook: Manage Conflict, Increase Trust & Intimacy, and Build a Better Relationship.  In this conversation we cover: 

• how a lack of emotional security in one’s childhood impact their romantic relationships as an adult
• how old defenses from childhood can still affect us in adult relationships as well as common signs that someone is still relying on these childhood defenses
• what emotional attunement looks like in a healthy relationship and how couples can improve their emotional attunement
• what effective acknowledgment looks like in everyday interactions between partners
• the importance of unconditional acceptance and how to accept each other’s flaws and differences without feeling resentment
• tools for repairing relationship ruptures. What are the first steps a couple should take when trying to reconcile after a heated argument?

Bio: Dr. Betsy Chung, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and relationship expert with a passion for helping individuals cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships. She began her academic journey at the University of California, Irvine, where she earned a degree in Psychology and a minor in Education. In 2010, Dr. Chung completed her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Alliant University and became a licensed psychologist in California in 2013. 

Dr. Chung’s diverse career includes experience in various mental health settings, from in-patient and partial hospitalization to outpatient substance abuse rehabilitation and community mental health clinics for children. Since 2015, she has focused on private practice, where she discovered her true passion for guiding individuals and couples toward stronger relationships.

Her latest book, The Couple Skills Workbook: Manage Conflict, Increase Trust & Intimacy, and Build a Better Relationship, provides a hands-on approach to building trust, communication, and emotional intimacy. Through her work, Dr. Chung continues to empower people to develop greater self-awareness and relational intelligence.

https://www.drbetsychung.com

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In this episode, we sit down with Donna Jakson Nakazawa to explore a topic at the core of many people's therapeutic journeys: recovering from the impact of adverse childhood experiences. Her new book, The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Guided Journal, offers a compassionate, science-backed approach to understanding how trauma shapes our lives—while providing actionable steps to rewire the brain for healing. Whether dealing with childhood trauma, chronic stress, or emotional adversity, Nakazawa’s work equips readers with practical tools to process their past, build resilience, and cultivate an internal sense of safety. Join us as we dive into this powerful conversation.

• Why it’s important to revisit childhood adversity to achieve a fully actualized adulthood
• How adverse childhood experiences impact brain development
• Safely managing the challenging emotions that can arise when processing past trauma
• Key reflective questions that can help uncover how childhood experiences shape adult patterns
• A helpful approach for those feeling stuck in anger or resistant to exploring this content
• The power of narrative in understanding and making sense of our personal story
• The protective role of positive childhood experiences
• How connection serves as the antidote to trauma
• Why naming emotions is essential for emotional regulation
• How to effectively create emotionally corrective experiences

Donna Jackson Nakazawa is an award-winning science journalist, author, and internationally recognized speaker whose work focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, immunology, and human resilience. With a passion for helping individuals heal from trauma, Nakazawa has written several groundbreaking books, including “Childhood Disrupted”, “The Angel and the Assassin”, “Girls on the Brink”, and her latest, “The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Guided Journal”. Drawing on over 30 years of experience in journalism and research, Nakazawa has developed science-based techniques for trauma recovery, such as her pioneering "Neural Re-Narrating" process. Her work is deeply rooted in neuroscience and the power of writing as a tool for healing. As the creator of “Your Healing Narrative”, she teaches writing-to-heal workshops that combine mindfulness, self-compassion, and neuroscience to help people transform their lives.  Nakazawa is also a regular speaker at major universities and conferences, where she shares her expertise on trauma, adversity, and emotional well-being. Her insights have been featured in numerous media outlets, including “The New York Times”, “The Washington Post”, “The Today Show”, and NPR. She is known for her compassionate, accessible approach to complex scientific topics and her dedication to empowering individuals to reclaim their health and well-being.

http://donnajacksonnakazawa.com

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Many of us accept freewill as an undeniable truth, assuming that we are the architects of our own decisions and destiny. Yet, a growing body of scientific research challenges this notion, suggesting that our sense of freewill may be more of an illusion than reality. This emerging perspective carries profound implications, urging us to reconsider the foundations of personal responsibility, ethics, and the way we govern our society.  Dr. Yona Bouskila joins us to explore this provocative subject, drawing on insights from his thriller, The Unthinkable Truth, which expertly blends scientific inquiry with imaginative fiction.  In this conversation we cover: 

• the motivation behind delving into free will in The Unthinkable Truth and  how the book challenges conventional views on decision-making and destiny
• the fusion of neuroscience, philosophy, and AI in the book, with a particular focus on the Theory of Apparent Mental Causation, and the evidence that underpins this perspective
• how main character George Bennet's journey reflects the broader questions about the extent of human free will
•  the role of AI, exemplified by the character Sherlock, in the exploration of free will and contrast its capabilities with human reasoning
• the scientific tools and methods employed in the book to tackle the age-old question of free will
• the interplay between personal responsibility and free will, and consider how these concepts might influence moral and legal frameworks in society.
• the ethical dimensions of using AI to understand and potentially influence human decisions, weighing its possible dangers and benefits.
• the key philosophical arguments against the existence of free will as presented in the book, and discuss how these are either supported or refuted by scientific evidence.
• the future of free will research and its potential impact on society, both in theory and in practice.

A scientist by training, a thinker by nature, and an author by passion, Yona Bouskila has a particular fascination with the human mind in all its aspects. This enduring passion, together with his penchant for thrillers, served as the driving force behind The Unthinkable Truth, which he describes as a unique blend of thought-provoking science and thriller that culminates in an eye-opening revelation on the mind and humanity. He studied biology (with philosophy) and received a PhD in neuroscience from UCLA. He is involved in medical research and development. Before that, he conducted brain research at several institutions in the US and Europe. He writes short stories, often with a humorous slant, and his debut novel was published in May 2024. He lives in England with his wife and pets, where he enjoys the Surrey countryside and contemplating 

Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Unthinkable-Truth-Yona-Bouskila-ebook/dp/B0CW1N2JTJ/

Visit the author's website: https://www.yonabouskila.com/

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Whether it's in our personal relationships, at work, or even with ourselves, boundaries are essential for our well-being and peace of mind. Yet, many of us - even clinicians I might add - at times struggle with this practice, often feeling overwhelmed, guilty, or unsure of how to start. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Sharon Martin discuss insights from your new book "Better Boundaries Guided Journal" which offerings practical advice and thoughtful discussion on how to establish boundaries that protect our time, energy, and emotional health.  In this conversation we cover: 

• what inspired her to create the "Better Boundaries Guided Journal"
• the most common misconceptions people have about setting boundaries.
• the flexible application of boundaries.
• overcoming the fear of conflict or potential for ejection that may come with setting boundaries.
• the role that guilt play in preventing people from setting boundaries, and how can someone work through these feelings?
• managing the challenge of connecting with resentment that has built up when we do start enforcing boundaries.  
• why clinicians may be particularly challenged with respect to implementing the very boundaries that they encourage for their clients.  
• the influence of family of origin on our boundary-setting abilities. 
• boundaries as an extention of self-care.  
• the importance of recognizing personal rights in boundary-setting and how someone can begin to assert these rights in a way that feels authentic to them?
• helping clients who are considering putting hard boundaries between themselves and their family, including no contact.  
• enforcing boundaries within the workplace. 
• setting realistic expectations around boundary setting and the reactions of others 
• using boundary setting to evaluate the health of a relationship. 

Bio: Dr. Sharon Martin, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist devoted to teaching clients to love and accept themselves. She has practiced psychotherapy for over twenty years, drawing strongly on positive psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques. Martin is a regular columnist for popular online publications, including Psychology Today and PsychCentral. She is a frequent guest on health and wellness podcasts. Her well-informed insights are featured on numerous websites, including The Good Men Project, Highly Sensitive Refuge, and Healthline.  Along with her extensive contributions to online media, Martin authors both e-books and printed titles. Her newest book, The Better Boundaries Workbook, helps clients find their voices and express their needs, allowing them to set limits and cultivate healthier relationships in their lives. Martin provides freely accessible affirmations and worksheets via her website, reflecting her passion for helping people learn self-compassion and self-acceptance.

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While most of us intuitively believe that our assessment of our lives is largely objective and a direct result of what has been happening to us, it's clear that subjective perceptions of objective events play a significant role in shaping the ultimate emotional experience of those events. This highlights the importantly interplay between personality traits and life satisfaction, raising questions about how much flexibility we have to change, reinterpret events, and see things differently to enhance well-being.  Professor Dr. Rene Mõttus joins us for a discussion of his recent paper, "Most People’s Life Satisfaction Matches Their Personality Traits." In this discussion, we explore:  

• why the Big Five stands out as a widely accepted and utilized model of personality.
• an overview of the Big Five model.
• exploring the relationship between personality traits and life satisfaction, and its importance due to its implications for psychological well-being. 
• the methodology employed in the study and the challenges involved in clearly defining core concepts such as "life satisfaction" to ensure measurable and reliable outcomes.
• the particular traits that serving as stronger predictors of well-being.  
• Personality traits that exhibit varying degrees of stability over the lifespan, and changes in these traits can affect life satisfaction as people age.  
• how extraversion and neuroticism play a pivotal role in determining life satisfaction.
• moderating factors, such as life events and cultural contexts.
• the surprising correlations between specific personality traits and life satisfaction, challenging conventional wisdom in the field.  
• applying these findings in clinical practice to enhance well-being, such as guiding therapists in working with clients and understanding the potential for change and effect sizes.  

Dr. René Mõttus is a personality psychologist whose research delves into the intricacies of human individuality, encompassing personality measurement, development, and the interplay between personality traits and well-being.  Dr. Mõttus earned his Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Tartu in 2009. His doctoral research focused on the universal and specific aspects of personality traits across various representations.  In 2010, he joined the University of Edinburgh as a postdoctoral researcher. His academic trajectory at Edinburgh includes appointments as a lecturer in 2013, reader in 2019, and professor in 2024.  Since 2023, Dr. Mõttus has also served as a professor of psychology at the University of Tartu, contributing to the academic community in his home country.  Beyond his teaching and research roles, Dr. Mõttus is the Editor-in-Chief of the European Journal of Personality, where he oversees the publication of cutting-edge research in personality psychology.  He co-hosts the Personality Psychology Podcast, engaging audiences in discussions on the latest developments in the field. Additionally, he authors the blog "People Unexplained" on Psychology Today, exploring various facets of human behavior and personality.   

Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/people-unexplained

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Compulsive reassurance seeking can be a challenging issue for both clients and therapists to manage. Clients are often highly adept—sometimes knowingly, sometimes unknowingly—at eliciting excessive reassurance from therapists and family members. At the same time, resisting the urge to seek reassurance can feel nearly impossible for clients. In this episode, Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC, joins us to discuss core themes from her new book, "The Compulsive Reassurance Workbook". Our conversation covers:

• What compulsive reassurance seeking is and its significance across various mental health presentations.
• Differentiating between normal reassurance seeking and compulsive reassurance seeking.
• Common triggers that lead to compulsive reassurance seeking.
• The importance of distress tolerance in managing reassurance-seeking behaviors.
• Mental health disorders that are more susceptible to compulsive reassurance-seeking behaviors.
• he cycle of reassurance seeking and how it perpetuates anxiety.
• Avoiding the use of clinical interventions (e.g., a thought record) as a safety behavior.
• Key components of the reassurance-seeking cycle.
• Effective metaphors for psychoeducation.
• Guidance for family members on navigating this specific challenge.
• Treating compulsive reassurance seeking in complex situations (e.g., trauma, pandemics, checking the accuracy of completed tasks).
• The role of “extinction bursts” in exposure-based work.
• Relapse prevention and normalizing setbacks.
• Understanding when to approach versus step back from a feared stimulus.
• Managing dysfunctional beliefs about worry.

Feedback or comments?  Email us at: oicbtpodcast@gmail.com

Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC specializes in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders. Amanda is the creator of the OCD Exposure Coloring Books and The Compulsive Reassurance Workbook, now available on Amazon. Amanda is on the board for OCD Kansas, an affiliate of the IOCDF (International OCD Foundation) and the president of the Kansas Counseling Association. She has completed the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute through the IOCDF and the Professional Training Institute through the TLC Foundation for BFRBs. Amanda currently provides Teletherapy to the states of Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, Michigan, Maine, Arizona and Florida.

https://www.amandalcpc.com

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Behavioural activation is one of the best, if not the best treatments for depression. Clinical psychologist and author, Dr. Nina Josefowitz joins us for an in-depth discussion of themes contained in her new book The Behavioural Activation Workbook for Depression.  In this discussion we cover:    

• The basic premise of behavioral activation and how it differs from other depression treatments.
• The negative feedback loop of depression and why it is so challenging to break.
• How behavioral activation addresses the physical and emotional symptoms of depression.
• The role motivation plays in behavioral activation and how individuals can overcome a lack of motivation.
• The difference between the causes of depression and its treatment.
• The importance of individuals assessing their level of depression before starting treatment.
• The purpose of activity monitoring in the context of behavioral activation.
• Common pitfalls people encounter when trying to monitor their activities and mood.
• How detailed activity monitoring should be to be effective.
• Specific examples of mood-boosting activities.
• The importance of identifying personal values when setting goals for managing depression.
• Common avoidance behaviors that perpetuate depression.
• How the physical environment impacts an individual's ability to engage in positive activities.
• Common setbacks individuals face when engaging in behavioral activation.
• Strategies for sustaining progress in managing depression.
• The benefits of combining behavioral activation with medication for a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Nina Josefowitz, PhD, is a clinical psychologist. In addition to her clinical practice, she teaches at the University of Toronto, and has offered training in North America, Asia, and Africa. She is author of numerous professional articles on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and issues related to general clinical practice. Along with David Myran, she coauthored CBT Made Simple and has co authored the new book The Behavioural Activation Workbook Depression (available on Amazon.com). She has appeared in court numerous times as an expert witness in cases involving interpersonal violence. Dr. Josefowitz was on the Council of the College of Psychologists of Ontario for 9 years, and President of the College from 2001-2003. She has published in the area of trauma, cognitive behavior therapy, women’s issues, ethics and clinical psychology.   Dr. Josefowitz is well known for integrating years of clinical experience into a practical, actionable strategies.  

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Navigating relationships with emotionally immature parents can evoke very strong reactions, which can be difficult to navigate. In many clinician's experience, when this topic comes up, people tend to react in one of three ways: defending their parents as perfect, blaming them for all their struggles, or questioning their own perceptions entirely - all of which can create stuck points. Author and psychologist, Dr. Lindsay Gibson, who has written and lectured extensively on the topic of emotional immaturity joins us for a discussion of some of the core themes covered in her new book “Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People”.  In this discussion we cover:  

• why has this topic been such a focus over her career 
• the kinds of emotional activation in clients can that flow from discussions around emotionally immature parents.
• the key traits that distinguish emotionally immature people from those who are more emotionally mature
• developmental factors that contribute to emotional immaturity in adults
• recognizing emotional immaturity in parents to help adult children heal from past traumas
• the primary coping mechanisms that emotionally immature people use, and how these impact their relationships
• practical steps can adult children take to set and maintain healthy boundaries with emotionally immature parents
• best practices for communicating effectively with emotionally immature parents, especially during conflicts
• considering whether forgiveness is necessary for healing from the impact of emotionally immature parents, and what alternatives exist if forgiveness is not feasible
• how can adult children of emotionally immature parents focus on building healthy, fulfilling relationships outside of their family of origin

Lindsay C. Gibson, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with more than thirty years’ experience working in both public service and private practice. Her books—including the #1 Amazon best seller, Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents—have sold more than a million copies, and have been translated into thirty-seven languages. In the past, Dr. Gibson has served as an adjunct assistant professor, teaching doctoral clinical psychology students clinical theory and psychotherapy techniques. She specializes in therapy and coaching with adults to attain new levels of personal growth, emotional intimacy with others, and confidence in dealing with emotionally immature family members. Her website is available at http://www.lindsaygibsonpsyd.com.

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Assessing & treating adult ADHD can be both very challenging as well as highly rewarding for client and clinician alike. Psychologist & author, Dr. Russell Ramsay joins us for an in-depth discussion of the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD building on themes in his new workbook, The Adult ADHD and Anxiety Workbook.  In this discussion we cover: 

• why Dr. Ramsay wanted to write a workbook focused on both ADHD and anxiety and why individuals with ADHD may be particularly prone to anxiety
• a brief description of the symptom clusters of ADHD and why a dimensional approach can be helpful
• an evolutionary angle to understanding ADHD
• an extensive discussion of tricky diagnostic issues including: nuance around contextualizing the later emergence of childhood symptoms; assessing ADHD in female clients; understanding the impact of "masking" on the presentation of symptoms; the impact of high trait agreeableness and pleasing behaviours on functional impacts; the course of symptoms over the lifetime
• the contribution of undiagnosed ADHD to treatment resistance around other co-morbid conditions
• addressing the interpersonal challenges that can come with ADHD
• understanding rejection sensitivity in the context of ADHD  
• a strengths-based lens on ADHD
• the so-called "ADHD tax"

Comments or feedback?  Email the podcast at: oicbtpodcast@gmail.com

J. Russell Ramsay, PhD, ABPP, is a licensed psychologist specializing in the assessment and psychosocial treatment of adult attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD). Before embarking on his solo virtual practice, he was cofounder and clinical director of the University of Pennsylvania’s Adult ADHD Treatment and Research Program, where he was professor of clinical psychology in psychiatry. Ramsay is widely published, including five books on adult ADHD; lectures internationally and virtually; and is in the Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) Hall of Fame. He is from the Greater Philadelphia, PA, area.

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Many clinicians experience a sense of helplessness around effectively managing calls from loved ones of an individual living with a mental illness who is not willing to engage in treatment.  There is frequently an impression that little can be done until the affected individual wants to change.  Dr. Alec Pollard joins us for a discussion of he and his co-authors new book "When a Loved One Won't Seek Mental Health Treatment".  In this conversation we cover:    

• why Dr. Pollard and co-authors wanted to write this book
• the challenge for clinicians in fielding calls from loved ones seeking treatment for a loved one who is not motivated to engage in change
• where traditional approaches to a treatment avoidant loved one have fallen short
• operationally defining "treatment avoidance" through a lens of non-blame
• teasing apart the impact of symptoms vs. treatment avoidance
• understanding how the loop of accomodation-minimization within the "family trap" can keep an individual stuck in treatment avoidance
• contextualizing the counterintuitive impact of accommodation 
• considering the extent to which family members are realistically positioned to provide assistance to family members given the complexities involved and the slippery slope of the family trap
• parallels to the family trap within the client-therapist relationship
• the line between clear, transparent boundaries and minimization on the part of the family member and the temporal course matters
• why their approach focuses almost exclusively on the family member as opposed to the loved one that won't seek treatment
• creating a recovery friendly environment
• the complications that personality challenges in either a family member and/or client can present
• understanding when a family when should enlisting professional assistance
• how to discuss this conundrum with a family member who calls for assistance with a loved one

C. Alec Pollard, PhD, is founding director of the Center for OCD & Anxiety-Related Disorders at Saint Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute, and professor emeritus of family and community medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He is a licensed psychologist with a special interest in the study and treatment of individuals with anxiety and emotional disorders who refuse or otherwise fail to benefit from evidence-based treatment. Pollard, codeveloper of the family well-being approach (FWBA), has authored or coauthored more than one hundred publications and leads the Family Consultation Team at Saint Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute.

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Dialectical behavior therapy or DBT is a wonderful suite of tools that help people to be more effective with respect to managing their emotions and becoming more interpersonally effective.  These are challenges that often loom especially large for those who are highly sensitive.  Emma Lauer, LCSW joins us for a discussion of her workbook DBT Skills for Highly Sensitive People.  In this conversation we cover:   

• what inspired Emma to speak about the implementation of DBT in a way that is tailored specifically to sensitive individuals.
• defining a highly sensitive person in the context of mental health and therapy and how this construct has been empirically defined.
• tell-tale life experiences that are typical of a highly sensitive individual.
• the biggest myths, misconceptions or “lore” about highly sensitive people.
• contrasting sensitivity with weakness.
• why emotional sensitivity can be a super power.
• current self-defeating cultural narratives, behaviours and values around emotional experiences.
• the unique challenges that highly sensitive individuals face that DBT can help address.
• distress tolerance vs. an unhealthy escape from difficult emotions.
• the importance of the so-called "window of tolerance" and top strategies for expanding the window of tolerance.
• some of the unique interpersonal challenges that highly sensitive people experience and how DBT can help to address this.
• managing uncertainty as a central challenge of managing a highly sensitive temperament.
• Laura's favourite emotion regulation strategies.
• some of the challenges of implementing mindfulness for highly sensitive individuals. 

Emma Lauer, LCSW, is a therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, self-harming behaviors, and trauma. Emma is an eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)-certified therapist, an EMDR Consultant-in-Training, and she has taught both undergraduate and graduate-level courses at Arizona State University. She currently practices therapy and oversees interns and other staff therapists as clinical supervisor at Find Your Shine Therapy, a group private practice in Tempe, AZ.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/emma-lauer-tempe-az/418090

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In addition to being a topic that appears frequently in the realm of pop psychology, emotional intelligence is a subject of serious, rigorous academic inquiry.  Clinical psychologist & author, Dr. Stephanie Catella joins for us for a discussion of core-themes in her new book  The Emotional Intelligence Skills Workbook: Improve Communication and Build Stronger Relationships.  In this conversation we cover:   

• why Dr. Catella wanted to create a workbook specifically focused on Emotional Intelligence (EI)
• the current operational definition of EI
• common misconceptions people have about EI
• clinical presentations where it may be particularly useful to address EI
• the importance of providing psychoeducation around emotions 
• reacting v.s responding 
• a values-driven path to EI
• radical acceptance as an advanced EI skill 
• mentalizing  & attunement in the context of EI
• defining genuine, effective, values-driven empathy and differentiating this from more manipulative concepts like agentic extraversion
• a consideration of fact vs. fiction around the emotional intelligence of narcissistic individuals 
• the effective ingredients around effective, values-driven assertiveness and the value of being kind  
• the benefit to improve one's mental health and overall well-being
• the evoking of schemas that can occur in the context of this work

Comments or feedback?  Email us oicbtpodcast@gmail.com.  

Stephanie Catella, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist with expertise in transdiagnostic cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for trauma, anxiety, and building emotional intelligence. After completing fellowships at the San Francisco VA and the University of California, San Francisco, she codirected the Berkeley Cognitive Behavioral Therapy clinic with Dr. Matt McKay. In addition to her private practice, she authored an FDA-cleared prescription digital therapeutic for fibromyalgia, and serves as an advisor to HealthTech companies.

www.drstephcatella.com 

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Bipolar disorder is often thought of as a mental disorder that is treated exclusively with medication when in fact there are a number of evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques that can be used to complement traditional pharmacotherapy.  Dr. Holly Swartz joins us for a discussion of the core themes in her new book, Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder.  In this conversation we cover:

• a brief overview of bipolar disorder
• what Social Rhythm Therapy (SRT) is and how it is used to treat bipolar disorder
• the key principles and components of SRT
• challenges or considerations when implementing SRT with adolescents or young adults with bipolar disorder
• how SRT complements other treatments for bipolar disorder
• how SRT addresses the relationship between daily routines, sleep patterns, and mood regulation
• implementing SRT within a family system
• addressing challenges related to sleep from a behavioural vs. pharmacological route
• the unique challenge that technology, screen-time etc. pose to forming healthy biological routines
• advice for mental health professionals who are interested in incorporating SRT into their practice for bipolar disorder

Comments or feedback?  Email the podcast: oicbtpodcast@gmail.com

If you are finding value in the podcast, a rating on your podcast platform of choice would be greatly appreciated.

Holly A. Swartz is Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She received her undergraduate degree from Harvard College, medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and completed her psychiatric residency training at New York Hospital / Cornell University School of Medicine. Dr. Swartz’s research focuses on understanding and optimizing treatments for mood disorders. She is well known for her work evaluating Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) as treatments for depression and bipolar disorder. Her research focuses on the role of IPSRT and pharmacotherapy in the management of bipolar II depression and IPT in the management of maternal depression. She is engaged in collaborative projects to develop computational frameworks to model dyadic interpersonal behaviors in relation to psychotherapy process and outcomes and to understand neural correlates of change in chronotherapeutic behavioral interventions. Her research has been funded by the National Institute of Health, National Science Foundation, and the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.

Dr. Swartz has held elected leadership positions for national and international professional organizations, including serving as President of the International Society of Bipolar Disorders (ISBD ; 2024-2026), President of the International Society for Interpersonal Psychotherapy (ISIPT ; 2015-17), and Board Member of the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology (ASCP ; 2021-2029).  She is the 2018 recipient of the Depression and Bipolar Association (DBSA) Gerald L. Klerman Senior Investigator Award in recognition of outstanding research contributing to the understanding, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders. She is the author of over 100 publications, co-author of Bipolar II Disorder: Recognition, Understanding and Treatment (American Psychiatric Association Publishing, 2019), author of The Social Rhythm Therapy Workbook for Bipolar Disorder: Stabilize Your Circadian Rhythms to Reduce Stress, Manage Moods, and Prevent Future Episodes (New Harbinger Press, 2024), and Editor-in-Chief of the American Journal of Psychotherapy. She serves as a member of the Scientific Advisory Boards of DBSA and the International Bipolar Foundation.

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Challenges related to attachment in relationships - especially in the context of romantic relationships - can evoke very strong emotions and behavioral urges that can often backfire, sometimes causing the very thing we fear most; namely, the dissolution of a relationship.  Psychologist, author, speaker & teacher, Dr. Leslie Becker-Phelps joins us for a discussion of her latest release, The Insecure In Love Workbook.  In this discussion we cover:    

• what inspired Dr. Becker-Phelps to write The Insecure in Love Workbook and the clinical realties of this challenge that she had in mind when constructing her approach
• a brief overview attachment and how it relates to our relationships 
• how early life experiences influence our attachment styles in adulthood
• differentiating between normal relationship challenges and issues stemming from insecure attachment patterns
• the most common self-defeating patterns that people engage in when an attachment feels threatened 
• the critical importance of self-awareness in managing issues related to attachment
• Dr. Becker-Phelps' STEAM model (5 domains of self-awareness: Sensations, Thoughts, Emotions, Actions, Mentalizing)
• helping clients navigate challenges related to self-acceptance and compassionate self-awareness
• what determines sustainable compatibility 
• whether it is healthy to accommodate or even “give in” to one’s attachment style
• navigating an intense attraction to someone from the lens of attachment 
• the line between co-regulation & subjugation/unhealthy accommodation in a relationship 

Comments or feedback?  Email us at: oicbtpodcast@gmail.com 

Dr. Leslie Becker-Phelps is dedicated to helping people understand themselves and what they need to do to become emotionally and psychologically healthy. She is in private practice, hosts a YouTube channel, and is a prolific writer. She has authored The Insecure in Love Workbook, Insecure in Love, and Bouncing Back from Rejection. She also writes the Authentically You blog and the Making Change blog on Psychology Today.

To learn more about Dr. Becker-Phelps, visit www.drbecker-phelps.com