Edge of the Couch

For the first time on Edge of the Couch, we’re bringing you a Part 2! The response on Instagram (@edgeofthecouchpod!) to the topic of oversaturation was so engaging that we knew we had to continue the conversation. In this episode, we take it deeper: Does the field weed out bad therapists? In a sea of therapists, what does a good fit really mean? And how can we push back against the culture of competition in the field, instead rooting ourselves in accountability, consultation, and community? Thanks for coming along with us this season! We'd love to know what you think.Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch or share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod, email at connect@edgeofthecouch.com, or voice note at speakpipe.com/edgeofthecouch.We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign up.Alison McClearywww.alpenglowcounselling.com@alpenglow_counselling on InstagramJordan Pickellwww.jordanpickellcounselling.ca@jordanpickellcounselling on InstagramEdge of the Couchwww.edgeofthecouch.com@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram

The hosts delve into the pressing issue of therapist oversaturation and distinguish between quantity and quality in the field. They tackle the failures in training programs and emphasize the critical role of meaningful supervision. Concerns about surface-level oversight and the need for ongoing professional development are discussed. The conversation also highlights the public's perception of a shortage of qualified therapists, while exploring the need for gatekeeping that ensures both accessibility and high standards. Their candid commentary challenges the readiness of some graduates to practice.

The conversation revisits the ever-relevant topic of imposter syndrome, discussing how feelings of self-doubt can persist even in skilled professionals. The hosts share personal experiences and the evolving nature of these emotions as they tackle new challenges. They highlight the importance of community support in therapy and examine the role of privilege in shaping one’s sense of belonging. The episode culminates with reflections on their podcasting journey and future plans, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue surrounding mental health and professional growth.

The hosts delve into the complexities of 'victim mentality,' highlighting its misuse to undermine marginalized voices. They differentiate between genuine victimhood and defensive behaviors stemming from unprocessed trauma. Listeners learn how subtle triggers can unleash profound reactions tied to grief. The conversation emphasizes empathy in therapy while cautioning against mislabeling clients. Finally, they discuss the responsibilities of therapists in recognizing biases and ensuring a supportive, reflective approach to client care.

Ever wondered what it’s like to be the villain in someone else’s story? The podcast dives into the tricky dynamics between therapists and clients, exploring how therapists can be seen as villains. It discusses the complexities of accountability, self-reflection, and the emotional responses that arise in therapy. Listeners will discover the importance of empathy and communication while navigating vulnerabilities. The conversation encourages a nuanced understanding of human relationships, highlighting how labeling someone a villain oversimplifies their story.

The podcast dives into the belief that therapists shouldn't work harder than their clients. The hosts challenge this notion, discussing how privilege and trauma shape effort in therapy. They also explore the complexities of client engagement and the often misunderstood dynamics of therapeutic relationships. Silence's role in fostering deeper conversations is highlighted, alongside the need for therapists to adapt their approaches. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes the importance of meeting clients where they are emotionally while redefining the therapist-client dynamic.

You know those moments in session when something inside says, "Something just shifted", "Pause here", or "Hmm..this is not lining up"? In this episode, we dig into what it means to follow our therapist intuition. We talk about how intuition grows over time, how it shows up in the room, and how we tentatively introduce our impressions. What’s your relationship with intuition in the therapy room... and how do you know when to trust it?--Check out Leading Edge's upcoming free events, in-person events, and over 150 webinars to choose from at LeadingEdgeSeminars.org, and find the training that actually works for you." Use the code EDGE10 to get 10% off select purchases.Please note: this discount does not apply to the EMDR training.https://leadingedgeseminars.org/?ref=7078Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch or share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod, email at connect@edgeofthecouch.com, or voice note at speakpipe.com/edgeofthecouch.We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign up.Alison McClearywww.alpenglowcounselling.com@alpenglow_counselling on InstagramJordan Pickellwww.jordanpickellcounselling.ca@jordanpickellcounselling on InstagramEdge of the Couchwww.edgeofthecouch.com@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram

In light of the recent mass killing at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver, we decided not to publish an episode this week. We're honouring that our bodies need more time to grieve, recalibrate, and rest. We know many of you have also been impacted and we hope you're honouring your needs as well.Donate directly to families impacted.Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch or share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod, email at connect@edgeofthecouch.com, or voice note at speakpipe.com/edgeofthecouch.We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign up.Alison McClearywww.alpenglowcounselling.com@alpenglow_counselling on InstagramJordan Pickellwww.jordanpickellcounselling.ca@jordanpickellcounselling on InstagramEdge of the Couchwww.edgeofthecouch.com@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram

The podcast tackles the controversial topic of 'mean therapists' who prioritize accountability in therapy. It questions whether being direct and tough truly enhances effectiveness or simply masks deeper insecurities. The discussion dives into the dynamics of therapist-client relationships, the balance of care versus confrontation, and societal perceptions of emotional honesty. The hosts ponder what drives someone to seek out a 'mean' approach and reflect on the complexities that arise within these therapeutic styles.

Therapists often miss crucial information during sessions, leading to significant consequences for clients. They discuss how sensitive topics like self-harm and substance use can slip through the cracks. The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication and reflection on therapy practices. It highlights the importance of addressing the complexities of mental health diagnoses and the necessity for ongoing education in the field. Finally, they advocate for a compassionate, harm reduction approach to therapy, urging therapists to engage actively with their clients.