Did you know that the diagnostic criteria for borderline personality disorder (BPD) has remained the same since it was officially added to the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders in 1980? Forty years later, BPD remains deeply misunderstood by the public and isolating for those who live with the condition. On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth chats with Mark L. Ruffalo, MSW., D.Psa., about his extensive work in the field of BPD. The pair discuss the history of BPD, its symptoms and characteristics, and overlap with C-PTSD.  About Mark L. Ruffalo: Mark L. Ruffalo, M.S.W., D.Psa., is a psychotherapist in private practice in Tampa, Florida, and serves as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine and Adjunct Instructor of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine. He has broad clinical experience in the psychoanalytic treatment of a range of psychiatric conditions with particular interest in the psychotherapy of schizophrenia and borderline personality disorder. During his training at the University of Pittsburgh, Mark worked with severely ill patients in long-term psychotherapy, an area in which he has developed significant expertise.  He has published previously in the American Journal of Psychotherapy, Psychoanalytic Social Work, Psychiatric Times, and the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease. He currently serves as Co-Director of the Psychotherapy Track at the UCF/HCA Orlando Psychiatry Residency Program and is the Founding Editor of The Carlat Psychotherapy Report. Mark’s current research interests include the object relations theory of borderline personality disorder; communication dilemmas, paradoxes, and double binds in personality pathology; and deficits in logical reasoning in psychotic and borderline states. Learn More: Website To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma SPACE: SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter LinkedIn YouTube    

Dr. David Richo, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 50 years of experience, delves into how childhood trauma shapes adult relationships. He discusses recognizing triggers as pathways to healing, emphasizing mindfulness and personal responsibility. The conversation highlights the 'Five A's' of relationships—attention, appreciation, acceptance, affection, and allowing freedom. By addressing unmet emotional needs, Richo offers a roadmap for personal growth and emotional awareness in navigating the complexities of intimacy.

Sex is one of the most complex barriers to true intimacy in a relationship. It's also one of the least-discussed topics in therapy. Therapists often avoid discussing sex due to their perceived lack of subject knowledge or confidence in their therapeutic skills.  Clinical Sexologist and Psychologist Rikke Pristed believes that therapists have already developed a baseline competency in sex-related issues simply by being human. Those trained in the NeuroAffective Relational Model® (NARM®) are even better positioned to help couples improve their physical and emotional bonds. On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth and Rikke discuss the interplay between sex, trauma, and connection (or lack thereof). About Rikke Pristed: Rikke Pristed is a clinical psychologist, a clinical sexologist and has completed the Master Training with NARM. She has been working as a therapist since 1999. She lives in Denmark and has a private practice. She works with adults and sees both couples and individuals. She sees people both in person and online. Rikke is currently transforming her practice to become primarily NARM oriented. She is 53 years old and has three grown up children and 4, soon to be 5, grandchildren. Learn More: Website To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma SPACE: SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ *** The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you!   Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter LinkedIn YouTube        

On this episode of Transforming Trauma, CTTC Director and NARM® Senior Trainer Brad Kammer welcomes Jessica Britt, Training Director of The Diamond Approach, to share wisdom from her decades-long journey of personal healing and professional development. Jessica says that creating more depth in the field requires therapists to do the hard internal work of self-healing. She invites us to feel our way through layers of pain and recognize the alchemic potential of being with our deepest emotions. Only then can we hold that same space for our clients.  About Jessica Britt: Jessica Britt has been a student of Hamid Ali since 1977 and a teacher since 1985. As training director for the Diamond Approach, she leads ongoing groups in Europe, Canada, and the US. In the 1980s, Jessica was on the Gestalt staff of Esalen Institute, creating an integration of Reichian and Gestalt work. While at Esalen, she was a student within the Native American traditions leading wilderness journeys. Additionally, she studied continuum movement with Emily Conrad. A nurse in the seventies, Jessica specialized in the field of childhood sexual and physical abuse. She continues to practice from a view that includes the whole of the miracle of conscious life.  Learn More: The Diamond Approach Email To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma SPACE: SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter LinkedIn YouTube  

In this enlightening discussion, psychiatrist Daniel Morehead, a national mental health speaker and author, dives into the rich world of neurodivergence. He uncovers the significance of embracing neurodiversity with curiosity and humility. The conversation explores the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in society and education, emphasizing the critical connection between trauma and mental health. With a focus on authentic relationships and open communication, they advocate for a more inclusive approach in therapy and support.

It’s no secret that incarcerated folks lack access to adequate mental health care while in prison. Reintegration support is even harder to come by once they are released. Sadly, women face even more significant challenges than men on both counts. But what if more trauma-informed professionals got involved in supporting formerly incarcerated women on both the individual and community levels? On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes Alison Rapping, CEO of Arouet, to discuss the Arizona-based foundation’s pre-release, reassimilation, and mentorship programs for formerly incarcerated women. The pair also explore the impact that trauma has made on the lives of Arouet program participants and those in the US criminal justice system. About Alison Rapping:  Alison Rapping is CEO of Arouet Foundation, Arizona’s leading advocates for formerly- and currently-incarcerated women. Alison is a visionary and accomplished nonprofit leader with over 25 years of experience driving social change and empowering communities. During her tenure at Arouet, she has significantly expanded programs and services and launched new innovative initiatives, including a mission-driven job placement program, and a pre-employment support center. Alison specializes in criminal justice reform, women's leadership advocacy, nonprofit management, and program design implementation. Alison is also President of Alison Rapping and Associates, a strategy consulting firm that provides consultancy to community benefit organizations. She received her MPA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Learn More: Arouet To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma *** View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ SPACE: SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter LinkedIn YouTube      

Dr. Jonathan Shedler, a distinguished psychologist and author, dives into the essence of effective psychotherapy. He emphasizes the crucial bond between therapist and client, advocating for greater understanding of personality patterns beyond the DSM’s limitations. The conversation also critiques how social media influences disconnection, while proposing a more personalized and relational approach to therapy. Shedler highlights the importance of self-awareness and agency in fostering meaningful change, all while navigating the complexities of human nature.

When was the last time you took a break from learning new professional skills and, instead, carved out space to pursue self-discovery and community support?  On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes back the faculty of the Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC)––Brad Kammer, Stefanie Klein, and Marcia Black––to introduce SPACE, an innovative inner development program for therapists debuting in early 2025. SPACE supports therapists on three levels of the human experience: the personal, interpersonal, and transpersonal.  Brad, Stefanie, and Marcia guide you through the intention of the program, as well as its structure, highlighting the themes and what participants can expect to gain from each session. They also share insights into how their own struggles and learning over their long careers as therapists helped them become more present, authentic, and effective therapists, and inspired their creation of SPACE.  When we think of space, we may think of exploration into outer space.  What CTTC's SPACE program offers is exploration into our inner space: “It's [an] invitation to have a new relationship to our own inner world as a therapist.” Learn more about being a part of this community About the SPACE Faculty: Brad Kammer, LMFT, LPCC, is the Training Director and Senior Trainer for the Complex Trauma Training Center. Brad is responsible for the creation of the CTTC professional development programs, including working with Dr. Laurence Heller in developing the NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Training Programs offered through CTTC. Brad also guides the mentorship programs involving CTTC faculty, training assistants and participants; the diversity, inclusion and belonging (DIB) efforts; and is the executive producer of the Transforming Trauma podcast. Brad has a passion for cultivating a professional learning community that provides ongoing training opportunities and mentorship to a diverse group of mental health professionals in their work with complex trauma. Brad is also the co-author of The Practical Guide for Healing Developmental Trauma. Stefanie Klein, LCSW, is the Assistant Training Director for the Complex Trauma Training Center. Stefanie is also a NARM® Master Therapist, Consultant and Trainer. She previously taught the Level 1 NARM Online Basics Training and is involved in many aspects of supporting the development of the Center and its programs. Her focus as Assistant Training Director is co-creating and guiding CTTC’s Training Assistant Program. She is inspired by the mentorship model of supporting mental health professionals in bringing healing to individuals, groups and communities impacted by complex trauma. She also enjoys the training participants use their professional learning as a framework to create healthier and more sustainable relationships to their own lives. Marcia Black is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and CTTC Faculty Committee member.  As a NARM® Senior Training Assistant, Marcia has a passion for mentoring students and Training Assistants, and nurturing the growth of the community of graduates committed to ongoing learning.  Marcia is also a NARM Master Therapist and has been in private practice for over 40 years in SF and the East Bay, specializing in treating complex and developmental trauma, and other psychological conditions. Coming from a background in Attachment, Relational and Intersubjective approaches, as well as experience as a Somatic Experiencing practitioner and SE Assistant, Marcia finds the NARM model offers an invaluable and inspiring contribution to understanding and approaching the psychotherapy process, not only in working with C-PTSD but also more broadly. Marcia’s mentorship is based in a relational approach that invites an exploration into the therapist’s inner experience and growth, alongside that of the client’s. Marcia is excited about supporting ongoing training, consultation, and mentorship in her role at CTTC. To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma *** SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter LinkedIn YouTube  

Tobias Konermann, a clinical psychologist from Berlin specializing in developmental trauma, joins the discussion to explore the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM). He highlights how NARM differentiates itself from traditional therapies by emphasizing relational dynamics and emotional awareness. They delve into the role of shame in therapy and how it can hinder healing. Additionally, Tobias shares innovative strategies for working with trauma, underlining NARM's potential to transform therapeutic practices and improve client outcomes through its holistic approach.

James McNinch, a seasoned addiction specialist and co-founder of NARM-AC, dives deep into the transformative approach of addiction treatment. He challenges traditional models that often overlook the impact of trauma and attachment on recovery. The discussion illuminates how the NeuroAffective Relational Model® prioritizes emotional connection and self-awareness. James shares insights on the profound healing experienced through NARM therapy, emphasizing the power of supportive relationships in overcoming shame and fostering empowerment in those struggling with addiction.