Light Up The Couch

Gender expert Zander Keig, LCSW, join us for an overview of the various responses to the potential ambiguous loss experienced during a gender transition (medical, social, legal) by those who undergo a gender transition and their loved ones

Dr. Regina Koepp, PSY, an expert on ageism, shares critical considerations about ageism and its impact on mental and physical health, as well as touches upon the intersectionality between ageism and other identities. Considerations about ageism in clinical practice are also discussed. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.

Dr. Kimberly Dwyer and Elizabeth Irias discuss the impact of sleep on mental and physical wellness, debunking common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of quality sleep. They explore sleep cycles, healthy habits, individual needs, and the relationship between sleep and various medical conditions. Strategies for improving sleep hygiene, managing insomnia, and utilizing resources for better sleep are also covered.

Private Practice consultant Amanda Landry, LMHC, discusses important factors clinicians considering maternity/paternity leave ought to keep in mind, including discussion about legal/ethical considerations. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.

Couple therapy experts Dr. James Hawkins, LPC, and Shane Birkel, LMFT, discuss the importance of addressing emotions in couple therapy. They explore attachment assessments, physical interventions in therapy, and handling explosive moments. They also provide resources for learning more about emotionally focused therapy and relational life therapy.

Parenting expert Dr. Ilene Val-Essen, LMFT, shares helpful insight about using Psychology of the Self (Psychosynthesis) to encourage centered, communicative parenting strategies with the aim of improving overall family cohesion. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT

Diversity expert Lambers Fisher, LMFT, provides clear guidance about how to proactively create safe spaces in the therapy room for all types of client diversity, from clinical forms to ideological approaches. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT. Note: Client/therapist differences and individual factors may result in a treatment failure or loss of control by either or both people (therapist or client), and therapists are encouraged to consider the appropriateness of referring out and/or educating the client that they can choose a therapist of the same or differing characteristics if they prefer.

Dr. Diane Gehart and Elizabeth Irias discuss sorting through therapy theories, imposter syndrome, and developing a clinical identity. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness, the challenges of therapist imposter syndrome, and integrating medical aspects into therapy for holistic approaches and client-focused interventions.

Ariel Landrum, LMFT, shares critical knowledge about Emotional Support Animals and the process of assessment and letter-writing, including discussion about some of the practice-related issues ESA services can pose. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.

Paula Atkinson, LICSW, explores the psychosocial aspects of weight and body shape, the sciences that impact the way we think about weight and health, and the subsequent marginalization of people in large bodies. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.