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Edge of the Couch

Latest episodes

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Jun 4, 2025 • 49min

Imposter Syndrome Revisited

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.
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May 28, 2025 • 47min

Examining the "Victim Mentality"

What do therapists mean when they say someone has a "victim mentality"? In this episode, we unpack this flippant term and explore what’s going on underneath it. We recognize that "victim mentality" is applied to several distinct phenomena. We discuss the difference between being an actual victim of harm, using "victimhood" as a protective defense, and unprocessed grief or trauma. We also examine how "victim mentality" is often used to discredit marginalized people and survivors of violence. Finally, we explore how, as therapists, we can respond with more understanding for where the client is coming from and skill to navigate these nuanced situations.--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.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
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May 21, 2025 • 48min

Who is The Villain?

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.
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5 snips
May 14, 2025 • 46min

Working "Harder" Than Your Client

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.
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May 7, 2025 • 43min

Honing Your Therapist Intuition

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
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Apr 30, 2025 • 1min

Time to Grieve

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
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12 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 41min

Let's Talk About Mean Therapists

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.
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15 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 50min

When Therapists Miss Key Information

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.
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23 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 45min

Working with Intellectualizing

Dive into the intriguing world of therapy as the hosts dissect the challenge of clients who over-intellectualize. Discover why emotional disconnect often accompanies articulate expressions, and how therapists can balance validation with deeper emotional engagement. Explore strategies to navigate the complexities of emotional expression and learn techniques to reconnect clients with their feelings. Along the way, they share humorous insights and delve into the importance of creating a safe space for emotional exploration.
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10 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 38min

Are We "Treating" Our Clients?

The hosts explore whether therapy should be about treating clients or collaborating with them. They passionately discuss the importance of emotional connections and shared experiences in the healing process. The conversation highlights the non-linear journey of healing, viewing setbacks as valuable lessons. They critique quick-fix solutions, advocating for a humanistic approach that embraces both suffering and joy. Additionally, they introduce a new software designed to enhance therapist-client engagement, emphasizing the communal nature of therapeutic work.

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