

Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes
Counselors, coaches and sober companions help hundreds of thousands of people affected by Addictions and Mental Health issues each year. Learn about the current research and practical counseling tools to improve your skills and provide the best possible services. Counselor Toolbox targets counselors, coaches and companions, but can also provide useful counseling self-help tools for persons struggling with these issues and their loved ones. AllCEUs is an approved counseling continuing education provider for addiction and mental health counselors in most states. Counseling CEUs are available for each episode.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 26, 2025 • 1h 3min
1079 - 32 Ways to Reduce Your Dementia Risk
00:00:00 - Introduction: Overview of the 32 risk factors contributing to dementia.
00:00:35 - Early Life Education: Importance of education and cognitive reserve in childhood.
00:03:40 - Midlife Hypertension: Impact of hypertension on brain health and dementia.
00:06:10 - Hypoxia: Role of oxygen deprivation in cognitive decline.
00:08:05 - Sleep Apnea and Breathing Issues: Discussion on apnea, snoring, and their link to dementia risk.
00:11:35 - Obesity and Inflammation: Effects of excess fat tissue on brain inflammation.
00:14:10 - Diabetes and Blood Sugar Management: Stress and sugar levels as contributors to cognitive decline.
00:18:45 - Hearing Loss: The connection between untreated hearing loss and dementia.
00:22:20 - Vision Loss: Impacts of vision impairment on brain activity and stress.
00:26:30 - Poor Diet and Dehydration: Diet quality, hydration, and their influence on cognition.
00:30:15 - Antioxidants and Ultra-Processed Foods: Role of colorful diets and avoiding processed foods.
00:34:00 - Physical Activity: Benefits of exercise in reducing dementia risks.
00:38:40 - Autoimmune Disorders: Links between systemic inflammation and cognitive decline.
00:42:10 - Social Isolation: Importance of social interactions in maintaining brain health.
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Sep 19, 2025 • 1h 7min
1078 - Developing Rapport with Older Adults Made EASY!
00:00 Introduction & Overview
00:15 Defining Rapport & Its Importance
01:00 Impact of Lacking Rapport
01:50 Meeting Clients Where They Are
02:44 Consistency & Attachment Behaviors
03:42 Building Trust Through Consistency
04:46 Learning About Client Culture
05:32 Validating and Accepting Older Adults
06:18 Gaining Insight Into Client's Background
07:16 Nonverbal Cues & Acceptance
08:06 Generational Differences and Life Experiences
08:46 Emotional Responsiveness & Validation
09:48 Encouragement & Supporting Independence
11:00 Facing Fears & Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
11:46 Environmental Stability & Safety
12:48 Communication: Consistency, Acceptance, Responsiveness
14:07 Overcoming Communication Barriers
15:09 Cognitive Slowing & Allowing Processing Time
15:35 Vision, Hearing, and External Communication Barriers
17:11 Powerlessness, Trauma & Emotional Triggers
18:01 Past Trauma and Current Impact on Communication
19:14 Treatment Engagement and Advocacy
21:25 Connection, Regret, and Finding Meaning
22:27 Cultural and Generational Norms in Questioning Authority
23:28 Fostering Questions & Advocacy for Clients
24:00 Fears About Asking Questions & Being Judged
25:42 Hopelessness, Empowerment & Intervention
26:42 Fears About Losing Control & Institutionalization
27:32 Treatment Non-Compliance & Communication Gaps
28:35 Open Dialogue & Empowering Choices
29:13 Hidden Barriers to Communication
30:12 Communication Basics: Clarity and Directness
31:09 Asking Direct Questions & Advocating for the Client
32:55 Creating Accessible Environments
33:37 Finding Shared Interests & Setting a Positive Mood
34:47 Avoiding Jargon and Ensuring Understanding
35:40 Cultural Sensitivity & Individual Preferences
36:27 Fostering Privacy & Confidentiality
40:23 ACE: Ask, Collaborate, Empower
42:03 Goal-Setting & Addressing Barriers Together
43:01 Motivational Collaboration & Empowerment
44:08 Synergy and Win-Win Solutions
45:54 Effective Communication Techniques
47:48 Frequent Summarizing & Open-Ended Questions
48:47 Pacing Questions and Avoiding Confrontation
49:58 Alternative Perspectives & Teach Backs
51:06 Nonverbal Communication & Engagement
52:15 Dress, Presentation, and Self-Concept
53:05 Physical and Nutritional Health Insights
56:03 Building and Maintaining Rapport
57:14 Reflecting on Rapport in Practice
59:20 Key Takeaways & Applying to Everyday Life
01:00:29 Processing Loss When Rapport Ends
01:03:39 Growing Demand & Training Needs in Elder Care
01:05:32 Certification & Continuing Education Resources
01:05:43 Closing Remarks & Advocacy Tips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 34min
1077 - 5 Ways AI is Revolutionizing Mental Health Counseling RIGHT NOW
Discover how AI is transforming mental health counseling with innovative support tools. Listen as experts demonstrate mindfulness techniques using AI clones. Learn effective strategies for managing anxiety during job changes and navigating family dynamics, especially around the holidays. Delve into the benefits of setting personal boundaries and how AI can enhance communication within support networks. Explore practical applications of AI in creating treatment plans and managing emotional well-being.

Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 7min
1076 - The Surprising Truth About Hearing Loss Nobody Tells You
00:00 Welcome & Why Hearing Loss Matters
01:02 Understanding Acquired Hearing Loss
03:12 Prevalence and Demographics
05:02 Causes: Noise, Age, and More
08:08 Hormones & Hearing Loss
09:26 Ototoxic Medications & Infections
14:01 Trauma, Vascular, and Autoimmune Impact
17:15 Metabolic, Endocrine, and Lifestyle Factors
20:25 Nutritional and Chemical Exposures
22:44 Stress, Psychological Impact & Sympathetic Dominance
29:08 Cognitive Load & Behavioral Changes
30:22 Physical Effects: Balance, Tinnitus & Hyperacusis
40:53 Interpersonal Impacts & Social Isolation
45:04 Mental Health & Family Dynamics
48:17 Cognitive and Emotional Consequences
51:09 Physical Interventions & Communication Strategies
54:04 Therapy, Support, and Relationship Considerations
56:56 Emotional Coping & Empowerment Strategies
57:47 Environmental Modifications for Better Hearing
59:41 Helpful Apps & Hearing Devices
01:02:07 Holistic Approach & Prevention Tips
01:03:31 Summary, Resources & Q&A Preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 22, 2025 • 1h 12min
1075-Essential TRAUMA INFORMED Skills for Counseling Older Adults
#aging #aginggracefully #nursinghome #aginginplace
00:00:00 - Introduction and welcome by the host, Dr. Donell Snipes.
00:01:59 - Definition of trauma and exploration of how loss is traumatic.
00:03:30 - Identifying losses in different areas of life.
00:05:03 - Impacts of losing balance and mobility in aging adults.
00:07:24 - Discussion of anticipatory anxiety and grief related to aging.
00:09:33 - Effects of aging on independence and strategies for coping.
00:12:00 - Loss of hobbies and social connections due to physical limitations.
00:15:27 - Progression of chronic illnesses and managing their impact.
00:18:54 - Coping with loss of vision and hearing in later life.
00:21:15 - Addressing cognitive decline and dementia.
00:24:40 - Environmental changes and adaptation strategies for older adults.
00:28:30 - Emotional impacts of aging, including grief, anger, and frustration.
00:32:36 - Social interactions and challenges in maintaining connections.
00:36:02 - Financial strains and fears associated with aging expenses.
00:39:56 - Coping with the loss of a spouse and its implications.
00:44:18 - Empowering older adults to retain a sense of control.
00:48:39 - Grieving loss of identity and self-esteem in later years.
00:52:14 - Practical strategies to maintain autonomy and dignity.
00:55:30 - Caregiver challenges and communication techniques.
00:58:12 - Summarizing coping strategies and concluding the webinar.
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Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 12min
1074-Caregiver ALERT! Reduce STRESS and BURNOUT Now!
00:00 Introduction & Overview of Caregiving
04:30 Defining Caregivers and Cared For
07:00 Types and Roles of Family vs Hired Caregivers
09:30 Frequency, Intensity, and Changes in Care Needs
13:30 Time, Energy, and Case Management Challenges
17:00 Life Changes and Planning for Caregiving
22:00 Physical Impacts: Benefits & Drawbacks
27:00 Managing Physical Exhaustion and Health Risks
33:40 Interpersonal Relationships and Social Changes
39:00 Setting Boundaries and Maintaining Relationships
45:00 Emotional Impact: Stress, Guilt & Grief
51:00 Resentment, Anger & Communication Challenges
56:00 Cognitive Effects: Learning, Confusion & Mental Fatigue
01:00:00 Environmental and Financial Strain
01:04:00 Caregiver Wellness & Self-Care Essentials
01:09:00 Managing Family Expectations & Guilt
01:14:00 Navigating Support, Resources & Closing Remarks
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Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 6min
1073-Aging and Mental Health: The Connections You Need to Know
00:00 Introduction and overview of aging and mental health by Dr. Donal Snipes.
00:33 Physical changes starting at age 40, including hormonal shifts.
01:36 The grieving process of aging and its emotional effects.
02:06 Cognitive adaptations and resistance to change in older adults.
03:07 Control issues and psychological resistance to aging tools.
03:38 Frustration, irritability, and depressive episodes linked to physical and cognitive decline.
04:42 Grief due to loss of functionality and processing limitations.
06:50 Hormonal changes impacting cognitive health, including loss of neuroprotection.
08:24 Neurotransmitter decline with age, including serotonin and dopamine reductions.
13:41 Oxytocin’s role in bonding and mood, with strategies to increase levels.
18:54 Thyroid health in older adults, focusing on hypothyroidism prevalence.
23:04 Declines in liver and kidney function affecting detoxification and medication processing.
25:09 Effects of thinning skin on vitamin D production and wound healing.
26:12 Challenges with nutritional absorption despite a healthy diet.
33:37 Muscle mass loss and the benefits of resistance training for older adults.
35:42 Arterial stiffening, hypertension risks, and mitigation strategies.
37:50 Oxygenation challenges and the importance of deep breathing exercises.
41:35 Cognitive slowing and strategies to address memory issues.
45:54 Vision and hearing loss and their links to dementia risks.
47:27 Diminished taste and appetite, and strategies for nutritional challenges.
1:00:04 Environmental adjustments to ensure safety and independence for aging individuals.
#selfhelp #cognitivebehavioraltherapy #counseling #counselling
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Jul 27, 2025 • 1h 4min
1072-Revolutionary Mind Body Strategies to address ADHD, Addiction & Trauma
00:00:00 Interventions for ADHD and Addiction
00:04:11 Challenges of ADHD Integration in a Neurotypical World
00:08:19 ADHD and Its Links to Stress and Autoimmune Disorders
00:12:29 Understanding ADHD and Sensory Overload
00:16:24 Managing Stress Through Better Sleep and Circadian Rhythms
00:20:08 The Impact of Blood Sugar Regulation on Mental Health
00:23:51 The Benefits of Antioxidants and Omega-3s
00:28:01 Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Emotional Regulation
00:31:59 Enhancing Self-Awareness and Impulse Control Through Vagus Nerve Stimulation
00:35:41 Strategies for Managing ADHD Impulsivity
00:39:15 Supporting Individuals with ADHD in Daily Life
00:43:05 Techniques for Managing ADHD and Anxiety
00:47:12 Strategies for Managing Anxiety and Hypervigilance
00:51:01 Boosting Motivation with Goal-Oriented Techniques
00:54:37 Strategies for Enhancing Motivation and Productivity
00:58:17 Understanding ADHD, Trauma, and Addiction
01:02:53 Challenges in Skilled Nursing Care for Older Populations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 14, 2025 • 1h
1071-Uncovering the Truth About Alcohol Pharmacology
00:00:00 Introduction to the Pharmacology of Alcohol
00:03:47 Alcohol Consumption and Its Impact on Health
00:07:28 Impact of Alcohol on Glutamate and Anxiety
00:11:11 Dangers of Combining Alcohol and Opioids
00:14:53 Impact of Alcohol on Blood Pressure and Hypertension
00:18:35 Impact of Alcohol on Drug Metabolism
00:22:15 Effects of Alcohol on Nutrient Absorption and Inflammation
00:25:45 Understanding Cognitive and Executive Functioning Impairments
00:29:12 Identifying Root Causes of Symptoms in Therapy
00:33:27 Effects of Thiamin Deficiency and Substance Abuse
00:37:31 Early Detection and Treatment of Corov Syndrome
00:40:52 Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Health and Well-being
00:44:18 Effects of Alcohol on Emotional Responses
00:47:43 The Impact of Stress and Alcohol on Gut Health
00:51:28 New Approaches to Alcohol Dependence Treatment
00:55:16 The Impact of Alcohol on Mood and Absorption of Vitamins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 16min
1070 - Can the PIECES Mind-Body Approach REALLY Improve Your Mental Health?
[00:00 - 03:45] Introduction to Transdiagnostic Assessment
Discussion of how transdiagnostic assessment is gaining recognition.
Comparison with older frameworks like motivational interviewing and trauma-informed care.
[03:46 - 11:00] Antidepressant Statistics and Issues
Insights into the effectiveness of antidepressants for anxiety and depression.
Discussion of how antidepressants work and how effective they are based on various studies.
[11:01 - 16:00] Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Its Effectiveness
Dr. Snipes discusses the results and effectiveness of CBT in managing depression and anxiety.
The conversation covers how combining CBT with medications can lead to mixed results.
[16:01 - 23:00] Impact of Environment and Relationships on Mental Health
How environmental factors and relationships can affect one's mental state.
Examples are provided of how external environments can influence internal emotions.
[23:01 - 30:00] The "Pieces" Model Explanation
Dr. Snipes explains her "pieces" model, emphasizing mind-body integration.
Exploration of various dimensions, including physical, emotional, and environmental aspects of treatment.
[30:01 - 36:00] Complexity of Symptoms
Discussion of how multiple conditions or symptoms can overlap.
How improving one area, such as sleep, can positively impact other areas of life.
[36:01 - 45:00] Chronic Pain and Mental Health
How chronic pain can affect both mental and physical well-being.
Dr. Snipes explores the relationship between stress, chronic pain, and mental health symptoms.
[45:01 - 53:00] Chronic Stress and the Autonomic Nervous System
Detailed discussion on how prolonged stress can disrupt the body's ability to manage stress effectively.
How stress influences neurotransmitters and hormones.
[53:01 - 58:00] Emotional and Cognitive Interactions
Addressing how emotions, behaviors, and thoughts are interconnected.
Practical examples are given of how clients can break down symptoms to address them one by one.
[58:01 - 66:00] Addressing Sleep, Nutrition, and Physical Health
The importance of assessing sleep, nutrition, and other physiological factors in mental health.
Dr. Snipes outlines different ways these affect overall well-being and mental clarity.
[66:01 - 72:00] Understanding Pain, Trauma, and Their Influence
Exploration of how past trauma and physical health issues (like hypothyroidism) overlap with mental health.
How to address both physical and emotional components in therapy.
[72:01 - 78:00] Summary and Closing Remarks
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