Therapy Chat

In this episode of Therapy Chat, I interviewed returning guest Deb Dana, LCSW. We explored the profound impact of Polyvagal Theory on emotional regulation and connection. We discussed the importance of co-regulation, the role of nature in fostering a sense of safety, and the significance of recognizing micro-moments of joy and connection in our daily lives. We talked about the current trend of regulation "hacks" and challenged the idea that our goal is to be regulated. We also touchedthe power of glimmers as reminders of safety and connection. We talked about how we can move forward when things seem dark and discouraging. Ultimately, this conversation offers hope and practical insights for fostering emotional well-being in a dysregulated world, through the power of connection.Deb Dana, LCSW, is a clinician, consultant, author and speaker. Deb’s work delves into the intricacies of how understanding and befriending the nervous system can change the way we navigate our daily lives. She is well known for translating Polyvagal Theory into a language and application that is both clear and accessible and for her significant contribution pioneering Rhythm of Regulation® methodology, tools, techniques and practices which continue to open up the power of Polyvagal Theory for professionals and curious people from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life. Deb’s clinical work published with W.W. Norton includes The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy, Polyvagal Exercises, the Polyvagal Flip Chart, and the Glimmers Journal. Her work with Sounds True for a general audience includes Anchored and The Nervous System Workbook.  Learn more about Deb Dana's work and books via her website. If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership - open to anyone, not just therapists - which will open in September, 2025, submit your info on this form. Thanks!Therapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website for discounts on training, recommended resources and more. Find a trauma therapist near you via findtraumatherapy.com! We believe that trauma is real, healing is possible and help is available at Trauma Therapist Network. TherapyNotes® is the highest-rated EHR, practice management, and billing software for mental health professionals. Its all-in-one platform is designed to streamline all aspects of your practice, from connecting with clients via secure messages, to scheduling, to notes, to billing, and more; you can trust TherapyNotes has you covered. And one of the best parts? 24-7 customer service. It's beyond easy to get help over the phone or by email at any time of day from their knowledgeable and friendly representatives. The best time to give TherapyNotes a try is now! Sign up for your free trial by going to TherapyNotes.com, clicking "Start my free trial", and accessing your first two months free with the promo code CHAT. See why TherapyNotes is the most trusted EHR for behavioral health professionals today.Love Therapy Chat? Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe where you listen to your podcasts! Thank you!Podcast produced by Vaudeo Productions - https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back to Therapy Chat! This week, we're talking about a subject that many people are curious about lately, GLP-1's the diabetes medications that are being used by non-diabetics for weight loss. Therapists need to know about these medications, because clients are exploring them. I sat down with Dr. Vanessa Scaringi and Kathryn Garland, two therapists who specialize in eating disorders, to hear their perspective on whether these medications are helpful or harmful. Our conversation took us many places I wasn't expecting and challenged so many biases I had about these medications - some I wasn't aware of until we started talking. We went into diet culture, various eating disorders, why people are using GLP-1's and what they're experiencing. Their perspective was much more nuanced than I expected and I'm grateful to them for educating me! Whether you're someone considering GLP-1's, or a therapist whose clients may be curious about these meds, you'll find a lot to think about in this episode.Vanessa Scaringi, PhD, CEDS-C, is a licensed psychologist in Austin, TX. Vanessa co-owns with Kathryn Garland, LCSW, CALM Counseling, a group therapy practice. She primarily sees individuals in working on recovery from eating disorders or body image issues. Vanessa has dedicated much of her career to working in the eating disorder field. Kathryn Garland is a licensed clinical social worker and supervisor as well as a certified eating disorder specialist consultant in Texas, New York, Massachusetts and Colorado. She obtained postgraduate psychoanalytic training in New York City and incorporates relational and intuitive methods into her work with clients. Learn more about Dr. Vanessa Scaringi and Kathryn Garland, LCSW via their CALM Counseling ATX website and their Instagram.If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership which will open in September, 2025, submit your info on this form. Thanks!Therapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website for discounts on training, recommended resources and more. Find a trauma therapist near you via findtraumatherapy.com! We believe that trauma is real, healing is possible and help is available at Trauma Therapist Network. TherapyNotes® is the highest-rated EHR, practice management, and billing software for mental health professionals. Its all-in-one platform is designed to streamline all aspects of your practice, from connecting with clients via secure messages, to scheduling, to notes, to billing, and more; you can trust TherapyNotes has you covered. And one of the best parts? 24-7 customer service. It's beyond easy to get help over the phone or by email at any time of day from their knowledgeable and friendly representatives. The best time to give TherapyNotes a try is now! Sign up for your free trial by going to TherapyNotes.com, clicking "Start my free trial", and accessing your first two months free with the promo code CHAT. See why TherapyNotes is the most trusted EHR for behavioral health professionals today.Love Therapy Chat? Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe where you listen to your podcasts! Thank you!Podcast produced by Vaudeo Productions - https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week, Michelle Renee, a human connection coach and co-owner of Cuddlist.com, dives into the world of cuddle therapy. She discusses the vital role of consent and boundaries in fostering emotional connections through platonic touch. Michelle highlights how cuddle therapy can aid those with trauma, encouraging personal growth and trust. She shares insights on the emotional dynamics of vulnerability in cuddling and the importance of creating a safe space for healing. Listeners are invited to explore their own needs for connection and touch.

Join Eugene Ellis, an integrative arts psychotherapist and founder of the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network, as he explores the power of community in fostering mind, body, and spirit connections. He discusses his book on transforming race conversations, emphasizing the impact of historical trauma on individuals. Eugene also highlights the importance of culturally relevant therapeutic resources and community support for therapists of color, while addressing the complexities of identity and the need for collective trauma healing.

Dr. Sabrina N'Diaye is an integrative therapist, author, and peacebuilder who combines ancient spiritual practices with modern psychological insights. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in therapy, discussing how personal narratives of love and trauma shape healing. Sabrina shares her insights on daily spiritual practices like journaling and meditation, navigating societal pressures, and the significance of understanding family histories. Her grandmother's journey inspires a celebration of resilience, humor, and the healing power of storytelling.

Pam Conboy and Dr. Leah Linder, co-founders of Setas Seminary, bring their expertise in biology and medicine to discuss the fascinating world of psilocybin. They explore microdosing and macrodosing, emphasizing their therapeutic potential for mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The importance of intentionality and ceremony in using these substances is highlighted, along with the ethical implications of psychedelic therapy. Their insights provide valuable guidance for clinicians and individuals considering psilocybin's transformative effects.

Terri Cole, a licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert, dives into the concept of high-functioning codependency, shedding light on its connection to narcissism. She shares personal anecdotes and practical advice to help listeners recognize toxic patterns like love bombing and the importance of setting boundaries. The conversation emphasizes self-awareness and the significance of addressing these dynamics for healthier relationships. Terri's insights offer a fresh perspective on balancing empathy while safeguarding mental well-being.

Welcome back to Therapy Chat! This week, continuing the discussion of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), we have a new interview with my colleague, teacher and friend Paula Scatoloni, LCSW. Paula Scatoloni is a Licensed Social Worker and a Healing Arts Practitioner in NC blending transpersonal psychology, somatics, and sound with the principles of traditional wisdom and earth-based spirituality. Paula created Transformative Harmonics as a bridge to help individuals shift their frequency into safety, connection, and empowerment so they can begin live a more purpose-driven life. We talked about the importance of embodiment for practitioners who are delivering the SSP. Paula spoke about how we can work with our nervous systems for co-regulation and much more. Find Paula's website with all of her offerings at: www.paulascatoloni.comFind the Polyvagal Institute website here.Purchase Safe and Sound: A polyvagal approach for connection, change and healing here.Therapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website for discounts on training, recommended resources and more. On behalf of our friends at Unyte Health, we are pleased to share this Trauma Recovery Toolkit, a free resource aimed to support you as you work with clients who present with trauma and nervous system dysregulation. Download the toolkit and access an exclusive discount code for the SSP training! Find a trauma therapist near you via findtraumatherapy.com! We believe that trauma is real, healing is possible and help is available at Trauma Therapist Network. TherapyNotes® is the highest-rated EHR, practice management, and billing software for mental health professionals. Its all-in-one platform is designed to streamline all aspects of your practice, from connecting with clients via secure messages, to scheduling, to notes, to billing, and more; you can trust TherapyNotes has you covered. And one of the best parts? 24-7 customer service. It's beyond easy to get help over the phone or by email at any time of day from their knowledgeable and friendly representatives. The best time to give TherapyNotes a try is now! Sign up for your free trial by going to TherapyNotes.com, clicking "Start my free trial", and accessing your first two months free with the promo code CHAT. See why TherapyNotes is the most trusted EHR for behavioral health professionals today.Love Therapy Chat? Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe where you listen to your podcasts! Thank you!Podcast produced by Vaudeo Productions - https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back to Therapy Chat! This week we have another new episode, which I've been super excited to share with you! I had a powerful experience with the SSP myself, over the last couple of years, and prior to that I had been interested in its potential since first hearing about it around 2017. The challenge I found was in understanding - and then explaining - how it can benefit those who participate in the protocol! My guests today understand all the ins and outs of the protocol. In fact, they literally wrote the book! The new book, Safe and Sound: A polyvagal approach for connection, change and healing, is out now! It covers the research on SSP, gives many case examples, and covers some important factors in the delivery of the method.Stephen W. Porges, PhD, is author of The Polyvagal Theory and creator of SSP. He is professor of psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University, where he is founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium. He lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida. More at stephenporges.com. Karen Onderko helped bring SSP from the research lab to clinicians, who then enabled individuals to experience the many benefits of improved nervous system regulation. Together, they answered all of my questions about how the SSP works, who it's for and what the research to date has found. We will continue to learn about the SSP in a few more episodes. Look for my interview with Paula Scatoloni about the importance of the therapist's (or other provider's) embodied presence when delivering the SSP next week! Find the Polyvagal Institute website here.Purchase Safe and Sound: A polyvagal approach for connection, change and healing here.Access the bonus content my guests mentioned here - you'll see Deb Dana and Arielle Schwartz, among many others!Therapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website for discounts on training, recommended resources and more. On behalf of our friends at Unyte Health, we are pleased to share this Trauma Recovery Toolkit, a free resource aimed to support you as you work with clients who present with trauma and nervous system dysregulation. Download the toolkit and access an exclusive discount code for the SSP training! Find a trauma therapist near you via findtraumatherapy.com! We believe that trauma is real, healing is possible and help is available at Trauma Therapist Network. TherapyNotes® is the highest-rated EHR, practice management, and billing software for mental health professionals. Its all-in-one platform is designed to streamline all aspects of your practice, from connecting with clients via secure messages, to scheduling, to notes, to billing, and more; you can trust TherapyNotes has you covered. And one of the best parts? 24-7 customer service. It's beyond easy to get help over the phone or by email at any time of day from their knowledgeable and friendly representatives. The best time to give TherapyNotes a try is now! Sign up for your free trial by going to TherapyNotes.com, clicking "Start my free trial", and accessing your first two months free with the promo code CHAT. See why TherapyNotes is the most trusted EHR for behavioral health professionals today.Love Therapy Chat? Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe where you listen to your podcasts! Thank you!Podcast produced by Vaudeo Productions - https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Hillary McBride, a clinician and author known for her work on embodiment and trauma, delves into profound topics. She explores the ethics of sharing personal stories in therapy, emphasizing informed consent. Hillary addresses the nuances of spiritual abuse and trauma, connecting them to cultural contexts. They also examine the transformative impact of the COVID pandemic on mental health. Listeners will find insights on the importance of community in healing and the evolving nature of therapy as a journey of personal growth.