Dr. Diana Hill, a clinical psychologist and co-author of the ACT Daily Commitment Therapy Journal, shares her expertise on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She highlights how ACT can transform conflict into connection by focusing on personal values. Diana discusses cognitive diffusion, the family body analogy, and practical journaling techniques to navigate life's challenges. Listeners learn the importance of acceptance in enhancing relationships and how to turn regrets into growth opportunities while fostering a 'yes mind' in conversations.

Sue Marriott and Diana Fosha explore the key principles of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and its transformative impact on the field. AEDP begins with the premise of "healing from the get-go," and fostering change from the first session. It emphasizes "undoing aloneness" by building a supportive therapeutic relationship, while encouraging clients to engage deeply with emotions. Join us as we highlight techniques like metatherapeutic processing, where clients reflect on their healing experience, and integrating neuroscience into clinical practice.

Michael Hilgers, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a knack for helping creatives, joins the hosts to unpack the emotional turmoil surrounding the 2024 election. They tackle the deep divide in families and friendships, promoting the power of empathy and vulnerable conversations. Hilgers emphasizes the importance of patience and curiosity to bridge political gaps. The discussion also explores the impact of respectful discourse and the need for unity in a divided society, urging listeners to take small, thoughtful actions toward understanding.

Political tension can be overwhelming, but understanding our nervous systems can help us navigate emotional responses. Fear and anxiety often divert us from connection, exacerbating polarization. The discussion highlights the significance of empathy and community, emphasizing how recognizing diverse viewpoints can promote dialogue. They advocate for accountability from leaders, encouraging a resilient approach to personal relationships amidst division. By fostering connection and compassion, we can move beyond hostility and work toward healthier interactions.

Pam Benson Owens, President and CEO of Edge of Your Seat Consulting, Inc., joins the conversation to discuss secure relating. They tackle the neuroscience of relationships, emphasizing attachment styles and the creation of safe spaces for dialogue. The discussion highlights generational trauma's impact on relationships and the significance of emotional regulation. Personal stories reveal the transformative power of self-awareness and the importance of pausing and practicing curiosity in tough conversations, enhancing emotional intelligence in a diverse society.

James Ochoa, a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience in ADHD treatment, dives into the nuances of adult ADHD. He discusses the emotional toll of late diagnoses and highlights various subtypes of ADHD. Ochoa offers practical techniques for symptom management, including breathing exercises and micro-meditations, while emphasizing the importance of self-care and personalized strategies. He also shares insights on supporting loved ones with ADHD and the significance of effective communication in fostering understanding.

Margaret Martin, an expert in Experiential Dynamic Therapies, and Dr. Deb Pollack, who specializes in mental health therapy science, dive into the intricacies of recognizing and challenging psychological defenses. They discuss the importance of distinguishing between ego-syntonic and ego-dystonic defenses for emotional healing. The pair emphasizes how turning against these defenses can facilitate change, explore advanced therapeutic models, and highlight the transformative journey clients experience by confronting their past traumas.

Sue Marriott and Akilah Riley Richardson dive into a compelling discussion about the vital need to center marginalized voices in therapy. They explore how Western perspectives have shaped therapy practices globally, often overlooking diverse cultural approaches. Akilah brings a fresh, challenging perspective to the table. She pushes for a real shake-up in how we approach therapy, especially when working with marginalized couples. It's not just about tweaking existing methods – she's calling for a fundamental rethinking of our assumptions. The conversation tackles some heavy topics, from unpacking the concept of relational privilege to developing strategies that help couples see beyond their individual struggles to the bigger picture of systemic trauma. It's eye-opening stuff.  What really stands out is their focus on the deep impact of systemic trauma. They don't just acknowledge it – they dig into why it's so crucial for therapists to truly understand and address it in their work. Ultimately, this discussion isn't just academic. It's a call to action for therapists to step up, broaden their perspectives, and find new ways to help couples break free from systemic constraints. It's about empowering relationships and, in the process, maybe changing the face of therapy itself. Get it ad-free: www.therapistuncensored.com/join Go to shownotes www.therapistuncensored.com/tu245.

Nigel Denning, a pioneer in therapeutic psychedelics, discusses the transformative potential of MDMA and psilocybin in treating mental health issues. He raises concerns about the proper implementation and training in psychedelic-assisted therapy, emphasizing the need for structured treatment and integration. The conversation highlights Australia's recent legalization journey, the importance of community support, and collaboration in therapy. Denning also addresses skepticism about the science behind psychedelics and advocates for a personalized approach in therapeutic practices.

Dr. Ann Kelley and Lisa Kays discuss how improv can deepen conversations around tough topics like race and oppression. They examine white supremacy culture and show how improv values like collaboration, slowing down, and embracing complexity can challenge these norms. Improv fosters creativity, playfulness, and self-reflection to help reduce defensiveness and strengthen relationships in everyday life, at work, or in our closest relationships. By creating a supportive, collaborative environment, improv deepens connections and helps people tap into a wider range of emotions.