Light Up The Couch

Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LPC, breaks down what therapists need to know as they evaluate and treat OCD and tic disorders, as many children and adults may actually have an undiagnosed autoimmune disorder called Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndromes (PANS) or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS). Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT

Dr. Helen Hsu, a clinical psychologist, provides a helpful primer about supporting the Asian American population during the pandemic and increasing discrimination, including discussion about demographics and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT

Tree Staunton and Ariella Cook-Shonkoff, LMFT, climate psychology experts, discuss the emotional processing human beings engage in when facing large existential threats like climate change, and offer therapists guidance for supporting clients who are grappling with eco-anxiety. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.

Dr. Chris Kerr, hospice physician and author of Death Is But A Dream, clarifies the physical, emotional, and cognitive experience of death and dying, from the frequency of end-of-life visions to the processing of one's own impending death, as well as offers guidance about how caregivers can view their role and better advocate for their dying loved one. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT

Miranda Palmer, LMFT, discusses what it means to have a clinical niche, how therapists competently and ethically develop one, and how a clinical niche can impact clinical outcomes. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT

Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren and Sara Showalter Van Tongeren, LCSW, do a deep dive into the research about suffering and how to move forward in the wake of chronic suffering, including processing the continuing distress related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Interview by Elizabeth Irias, LMFT

Dr. Jameta Barlow, a community health psychologist and public health scientist, discusses the impact of patriarchal society on women's health and wellbeing, and offers a starting point for embracing, supporting, and lifting the feminine, including discussion about various types of intersectionality within the female population.

Dr. Tammy Hodo, a sociologist with an Urban Studies focus, discusses common factors that contribute to a lack of access to and utilization of mental health services by African American individuals, including discussion about historical context and cultural factors. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.

Dr. Dana Stone, LMFT, focuses in on identity development of multiracial individuals, from social context to family dynamics. Interview with Elizabeth Irias, LMFT.

Dr. Ajita Robinson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and expert in insurance credentials, joins Elizabeth Irias to tackle the labyrinth of mental health insurance. They debunk myths about in-network and out-of-network providers while unveiling the ethical obligations that come with documentation. The conversation dives into billing intricacies, emphasizing client access and the importance of accurate claims. They also discuss the ethical challenges in telehealth practices and provide valuable insights for mental health professionals navigating the complex insurance landscape.