Behavioral Health Today

Grief doesn’t shrink, we grow around it. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Amy Pickett-Williams, LCSW, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience specializing in grief, trauma, and somatic therapy. She is the founder of LIGHT (Love In Grief, Held Together), a movement rooted in collective care, accessible healing, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit. In addition to her psychotherapy practice, Amy is a certified yoga teacher and educator, and she now leads grief- and trauma-informed trainings for professionals and the public alike. Her latest offerings include the 20-hour Somatic Integration of Grief and Trauma course and the LIGHT Path 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training, both of which reflect her deep commitment to nervous system-informed, socially conscious healing. Amy has worked across medical, school-based, and private settings, supporting clients of all ages through some of life’s most challenging moments. In this episode, we explore how somatic practices, nervous system science, and social justice intersect in Amy Pickett-Williams' trauma- and grief-informed trainings, including her upcoming courses centered around grief and trauma-informed yoga teacher training, designed to support both personal healing and professional development.   For more information about LIGHT, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com For more information about the Somatic and Grief Embodied (SAGE), please visit: https://lightmvmt.com/sage/ To learn more about the 20-Hour Somatic Healing Training or other upcoming LIGHT trainings, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com/offerings/trainings For more grief resources, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com/resources To donate to LiGHT, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com/donate Connect with LIGHT on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/lightmvmt Connect with LIGHT on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/lightmvmt Connect with LIGHT on Linkedin at: http://linkedin.com/company/the-light-movement

In this episode of BHT Bytes, hosts Peter Fenger and Sharlee Dixon dive into the world of peer recovery specialists, the unsung heroes of addiction and mental health recovery. These are people who’ve lived through substance use challenges themselves or supported loved ones through them, and now use that experience to guide others toward healing and stability. With over 49 million Americans reporting substance use disorders and more than 100,000 overdose deaths in 2022, peer specialists are filling critical gaps across hospitals, courts, and communities. They offer what clinical care alone often can’t: empathy born from experience, mentorship grounded in shared struggle, and the kind of hope that comes from having walked the same path. Peter and Sharlee explore what makes peer recovery work unique, how certification and training shape the profession, and why funding cuts threaten a workforce that’s proven to save lives. From questions of quality and access to the broader cultural shift toward seeing recovery as a shared journey, this episode unpacks what’s at stake, and what the future of peer support could look like.   Follow Behavioral Health Today on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/behavioralhealthtoday/ Follow us on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@behavioralhealthtoday Follow us on Threads at: https://www.threads.net/@behavioralhealthtoday Or watch us live on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvOeCMGsF7B2gNBHuWxt-fQ

Wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about creating habits that feel good, fit your rhythm, and truly stick. In this episode, Peter Fenger sits down with Andrea Leigh Rogers, wellness entrepreneur, celebrity trainer, and creator of the global fitness phenomenon Xtend, a dynamic blend of Pilates, ballet, and cardio. Andrea’s uplifting approach and expertise have been featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and on major networks including NBC, ABC, and CNN. As a motivational coach and trainer on BODi, she helps women find energy, balance, and joy through approachable daily practices. Together, we dive into Andrea’s new book, Small Moves, Big Life, a powerful guide to reclaiming your energy, productivity, and happiness through simple, science-backed rituals. From breathwork and desk-friendly movement to mindset shifts and letting go of guilt, Andrea shows how small, intentional actions can lead to lasting transformation and a truly big life.   For more information about “Small Moves Big Life” by Andrea Leigh Roberts, please visit: https://www.smallmovesbiglife.com Connect with Andrea on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/andrealeighrogers/ Connect with Andrea on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16YbEr75L5/?mibextid=wwXIfr Connect with Andrea on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrealeighrogers

One coached moment can transform a lifetime of connection. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Dr. Alisa Bahl, a clinical psychologist and associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Virginia. Dr. Bahl specializes in child and adolescent psychology and works within UVA Children’s Hospital and UVA Medical Center, focusing on neurodevelopmental and behavioral pediatrics. Recently awarded an $80,000 Jefferson Trust grant, Dr. Bahl is expanding access to Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based approach that helps young children with behavioral challenges while empowering parents as active partners in change. Through her work, she’s training the next generation of therapists and helping families strengthen their bonds through empathy, play, and connection. Join us as we explore how PCIT is transforming the way we understand and support children and their families, through live parent coaching, greater access to care, and a renewed sense of hope in every interaction.   For more information about Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, please visit: https://www.pcit.org To become a PCIT provider, learn more at: https://www.pcit.org/become-a-pcit-provider If you’d like to find a PCIT provider, please visit: https://www.pcit.org/find-a-provider For more information about Dr. Alisa Bahl, please visit: https://childrens.uvahealth.com/findadoctor/Alisa-Bahl-1578814653 For more information about UVA Health Children’s, please visit: https://childrens.uvahealth.com

In every neurofeedback session, the brain rediscovers its own intelligence. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Dr. Amy Albright, CEO and Head Facilitator at Holon, where science meets spirit to unlock the brain’s fullest potential. With over two decades of experience transforming lives and guiding organizations toward exponential growth, Amy brings a rare synthesis of executive strategy, cognitive psychology, and ancient energetic wisdom. Through her pioneering work, Amy helps leaders, visionaries, and seekers release deep-rooted blocks, access expanded states of consciousness and create lasting transformation. Together, we explore how Holon is redefining brain optimization through a powerful fusion of advanced neurofeedback, intuitive insight, and timeless energetic principles, helping people heal, awaken, and embody the highest expression of their human potential.   For more information about Holon, please visit: https://www.holonexperience.com For more information about Neurofeedback, please visit: https://www.holonexperience.com/about-neurofeedback To apply for Holon’s programs, please fill their program application: https://www.holonexperience.com/program-application For more information about Holon, please join their newsletter: https://www.holonexperience.com/home/#join_us Connect with Holon on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/holon-evolution

Curiosity is the antidote to blame. When we replace “Why did you do that?” with “What was going on inside you?”, we open the door to understanding instead of shutting it with judgment. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Dr. Jeanne Michele, a trailblazer in personal development who blends over two decades of experience in teaching, modern philosophy, and coaching. With a PhD in Psychology and a Master’s in Spiritual Psychology, Dr. Michele is known for her innovative, compassionate approach to helping individuals, couples, and leaders navigate life’s toughest challenges. Author of The Infidelity Cure: How to Rebuild Your Life & Relationship After Your Affair, Dr. Michele offers fresh, transformative insights that move beyond traditional methods of healing. Together, Sharlee and Jeanne explore how curiosity can replace judgment after betrayal—helping couples uncover deeper emotional needs, foster empathy, and rebuild trust through open-ended questions, courageous conversations, and self-awareness. If you’re interested in a companion conversation, be sure to revisit our earlier episode with Dr. Graham Taylor on Male Infidelity, where we dive into betrayal, rebuilding trust, and the power of loving courageously.   For more information about Dr. Jeanne Michele, please visit: https://drjeannemichele.com For more information about “The Infidelity Cure: How to Rebuild Your Life & Relationship After Your Affair”, by Dr. Jeanne Michele, please visit: https://theinfidelitycure.com To download Healing from the Affair for Women resource, please visit: https://women.healingfromtheaffair.com/11736mbyql Connect with Jeanne on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/drjeannemichele/ Connect with Jeanne on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjeannemichele Connect with Jeanne on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/JeanneMichelePhD Connect with Jeanne on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClz-RN9Sw5Dyf2GKLsWYidA

Resilience isn’t about never falling. It’s about learning, adapting, and choosing hope, every time. In this episode, host Peter Fenger speaks with Andy Pierce, Resilience Expert and founder of iBounceUp, a Honolulu-based nonprofit transforming lives in at-risk communities. Andy brings a Master's degree in Performance Psychology and extensive experience working with elite Special Operations Soldiers, Army Rangers, adults in addiction recovery, and resource caregivers. But his work with iBounceUp is deeply personal, born from his brother-in-law Matt's struggle with addiction and untimely death, the organization now serves as both a legacy and a lifeline. In this conversation, Andy reveals the five pillars of mental resilience: self-awareness, self-control, optimism, flexibility, and relationships. He shares powerful stories from Hawaii's rehab centers and sober living facilities, explains why connection matters more than curriculum, and opens up about his own near-fatal surfing accident that tested everything he teaches. Discover why being selective about who we share good news with matters, how our beliefs drive our thoughts, and why flexibility might be the most underrated resilience skill of all. This is a conversation about building strength in broken places, and why showing up consistently changes lives.   For more information about iBounceUp, please visit: https://www.ibounceup.org Consider a donation to iBounceUp and help transform lives: https://www.ibounceup.org/donate-now Connect with iBounceUp on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ibounce-up/ Connect with iBounceUp on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ibounceup For more information about Andy Pierce and resilience training, please visit: https://www.bounceresilience.com

Psychedelics offer a fresh snowfall over old patterns, but only you can decide how to sled down the mountain. Education and community are essential guides for that journey. In this episode, host Sharlee Dixon speaks with Linden Schaffer, an award-winning wellness entrepreneur, bestselling author, and expert with over 20 years of experience in the wellness and psychedelic spaces. Linden is the founder of Reveal, a global online community for women, and co-founder of the Los Angeles Women's Psychedelic Community, both dedicated to creating safe and informed spaces for exploration and healing. As a member of the Global Psychedelic Society team, she advocates for responsible and inclusive practices in the psychedelic movement. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, and ABC News, and she has spoken on stages including The New York Times Travel Show and Google Talks. In this conversation, Linden dismantles common misconceptions about psychedelics, explains her Five S's framework for safety (screening, set, setting, support, and sustainability), and discusses why these medicines require more than a one-time experience. We explore how psychedelics can address women's unique mental health challenges—from hormonal transitions to societal pressures, and why preparation, integration, and community support are non-negotiable for transformative healing. Whether you're curious, experienced, or supporting someone on this path, this episode offers practical wisdom for navigating psychedelic spaces with intention, agency, and informed consent.   For more information about Reveal and plant medicine, please visit: https://www.revealcommunity.world For more information about the Soul & Substance 8-week course, please visit: https://www.revealcommunity.world/soulsubstance Explore other courses offered by Reveal: https://www.revealcommunity.world/courses Connect with Reveal on Instagram: http://instagram.com/revealcommunity Connect with Reveal on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reveal_community

Coaches don’t pave the road to recovery; they walk beside you, helping you rediscover purpose, strength, and resilience. In this episode, host Peter Fenger speaks with Dr. Traci Sweet and Emilee Beck of Holon Health. Traci, Co-Founder and COO, brings over 30 years of experience pioneering innovative approaches in behavioral health and substance use treatment. She has been a leader in breaking down barriers to care and creating integrated models that improve engagement and long-term outcomes. Emilee, an Addiction Recovery Coach, supports individuals through the challenges of substance use recovery. With expertise in coaching and counseling, she guides clients in building healthier, more fulfilling lives. In this Clinicians Series conversation, we welcome Traci and Emilee back to explore the vital role of recovery coaches, how they build trust, navigate relapse, and measure success. We also look at how Holon Health’s approach fosters empowerment, community, and lasting healing.   For more information about Holon Health, please visit: https://www.holonhealth.com If you would like to refer a client, please visit: https://www.holonhealth.com/client-referrals/ For more information about partnering with Holon Health, please visit: https://www.holonhealth.com/providers/ Connect with Holon Health on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/holonhealth/ Connect with Holon Health on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holonhealthcare Connect with Holon Health on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HolonHealth Connect with Holon Health on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holonhealth/

Community Health Partners bridge the gap between the healthcare system and the people it too often leaves behind. In this episode, host Sharlee Dixon speaks with Ruby Mehta, Head of Behavioral Health at Cityblock. Ruby’s journey from investment banker to clinical social worker gives her a rare blend of financial acumen and clinical expertise. She brings years of experience in strategy, operations, and direct care, paired with a passion for making high-quality mental health services both accessible and scalable. At Cityblock, Ruby is driving innovative approaches that improve care for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders. Together, we’ll explore how Cityblock’s Advanced Behavioral Health Program is transforming outcomes by empowering Community Health Partners, integrating essential social supports, and leveraging a value-based model to deliver whole-person care.   For more information about Cityblock, please visit: https://www.cityblock.com/mental-health Connect with Cityblock on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cityblock-health Connect with Cityblock on Facebook at: https://facebook.com/CityblockHealth View articles by Cityblock on Medium: https://cityblockhealth.medium.com