

Therapy Chat
Laura Reagan, LCSW-C
Laura Reagan, LCSW-C, Psychotherapist, Burnout Prevention Consultant and Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator interviews guests to discuss holistic and alternative approaches used in psychotherapy, counseling, coaching and healing sessions. Be a fly on the wall as therapists discuss the practice of psychotherapy and how they implement self care into their own lives to prevent therapist burnout. Conversations about mindfulness, self compassion, The Daring Way™, EMDR, art therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, other somatic methods, trauma, parenting, attachment will get you thinking deeply about therapy and the universal experience of being human, with all the joy and pain that entails.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 1, 2025 • 39min
507: Resilience with EMDR - With Libby Murdoch
Welcome back to Therapy Chat! This week's episode is a replay where I speak to Libby Murdoch, LPC, CCTP about her Resilience-Focused EMDR therapy training! The concept of building resilience is gaining traction in our field, and it makes sense! Listen in to our conversation as Libby and I discuss her EMDR Basic Training offerings and what's different about her Resilience-Focused approach.I met Libby last year in London at a conference where she was a speaker and I loved her enthusiasm for the work and her way of clearly explaining the neuroscience, making it accessible for more people to understand. Libby Murdoch is a licensed professional counselor and certified clinical trauma professional who is an EMDRIA-approved EMDR Trainer. She facilitates Basic EMDR Training for clinicians on a monthly basis.She has a private practice located in Cincinnati, OH where she offers EMDR intensives. She is the developer of Resilience-Focused EMDR and Psychological CPR. Libby has presented at various conferences across the US and internationally, specializing in neuroscience topics such as resilience, relationships, self-care, and trauma. She utilizes techniques based on brain science in treatment, including EMDR, and is passionate about making neuroscience accessible to everyone.Learn more about Libby Murdoch's EMDRIA-approved EMDR Trainings at:brainbasedemdr.comAdditional Resources:Are you a helping professional who wants to learn more about the Safe + Sound Protocol (SSP)? 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! Bumble is the dating app built with a focus on meaningful and authentic relationships and with the belief that love—in all its forms—is the foundation to a happy, healthy life. Bumble helps you find the real, intentional connections you're looking for. Download the app for free today on the App Store or Google Play and learn more at Bumble.com!Therapists and mental health professionals: I created a FREE video to help you feel more confident in supporting survivors of sexual violence in an embodied and trauma sensitive manner. Check it out here!If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership - open to anyone, not just therapists - submit your info on this form. Thanks!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyChatPodcastTherapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website to learn about my upcoming retreat, put your name on the waitlist for TTN membership, find discounts on CE trainings, purchase my course, schedule a clinical consultation, access 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.Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions: https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out PharmaNutra and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Nov 24, 2025 • 51min
506: Nervous System Regulation + EMDR with Rebecca Kase
Welcome back to Therapy Chat! In this week's replay episode, we're looking at the many ways to use EMDR. I'm revisiting my conversation with Rebecca Kase, a licensed clinical social worker and yoga instructor, living in Gig Harbor, WA. She is an EMDR Consultant & Basic Trainer, and owner of Kase & CO, an EMDR Training and Consulting company. She is the author of Polyvagal informed EMDR: A Neuro-informed Approach to Healing.In our conversation, you'll hear why a Polyvagal perspective is important when learning EMDR, and how she incorporates this into her EMDR sessions, as well as learning about EMDR training with Rebecca.Learn more about Rebecca's work via her website: https://kaseandco.com/Find Rebecca's book here: Polyvagal informed EMDR: A Neuro-informed Approach to HealingWe are accepting new clients in my therapy practice (for those located in Maryland). Learn more via our website: https://bahealing.com Additional Resources:Are you a helping professional who wants to learn more about the Safe + Sound Protocol (SSP)? 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! Bumble is the dating app built with a focus on meaningful and authentic relationships and with the belief that love—in all its forms—is the foundation to a happy, healthy life. Bumble helps you find the real, intentional connections you're looking for. Download the app for free today on the App Store or Google Play and learn more at Bumble.com!Therapists and mental health professionals: I created a FREE video to help you feel more confident in supporting survivors of sexual violence in an embodied and trauma sensitive manner. Check it out here!If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership - open to anyone, not just therapists - submit your info on this form. Thanks!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyChatPodcastTherapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website to learn about my upcoming retreat, put your name on the waitlist for TTN membership, find discounts on CE trainings, purchase my course, schedule a clinical consultation, access 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.Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions: https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out PharmaNutra and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Nov 17, 2025 • 35min
505: Betrayal Trauma + Emdr with Marcken Volmy
Marcken Volmy, a licensed mental health counselor and EMDR-trained therapist, delves into the profound effects of betrayal trauma. He shares how trust violations by loved ones can shatter one's sense of safety. The conversation touches on the BetterHelp FTC case, illustrating how institutional betrayal impacts client and therapist trust. Marcken explains how EMDR can help reshape negative beliefs and restore safety, using his own trauma recovery story as a powerful example. His insights connect personal healing to broader societal issues.

Nov 10, 2025 • 33min
504: EMDR with Adolescents with Curt Widhalm, LMFT
Curt Widhalm, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and EMDR expert, shares his transformative journey with EMDR after a bike accident. He discusses the crucial phases of EMDR, including preparation and reprocessing, tailored for adolescents. Curt emphasizes the importance of building trust with teens to enhance therapeutic outcomes. He explores adaptations for developmental needs and the integration of family dynamics in therapy. His insights on balancing individual and family therapy shed light on supporting adolescents through trauma.

Nov 3, 2025 • 37min
503: Play Therapy + EMDR With Kids - With Ann Beckley Forest + Annie Monaco
In this engaging discussion, Ann Beckley Forest, an experienced play therapist, and Annie Monaco, an EMDR trainer, share their innovative approach with Playful EMDR. They explain the synergy between EMDR and play therapy in helping children process trauma, emphasizing the importance of playful engagement. Topics include the structured techniques of EMDR tailored for kids, the necessity of building rapport, and the urgency of addressing unprocessed trauma in youth. They also highlight the role of caregivers and the community in supporting therapeutic processes.

Oct 29, 2025 • 30min
502: EMDR Art Therapy + Psychedelics with Jocelyn Fitzgerald
Welcome back to Therapy Chat! This week, I'm joined by Therapist and EMDR Consultant Jocelyn Fitzgerald. We discussed the integration of creativity in trauma therapy, exploring the power of EMDR combined with creative arts, which she has used in working with refugees. She shared about her book, EMDR and the Creative Arts Therapies. The conversation also delves into the role of psychedelics in therapy, the neuroscience of creativity, and the essential nature of art in human development. Jocelyn shares practical applications for therapists and emphasizes the importance of humor in healing.Jocelyn Fitzgerald is a board-certified art therapist (ATR-BC), licensed marriage and family therapist, and EMDRIA-approved EMDR Consultant, known for integrating creative arts into trauma therapy. She is the co-author of EMDR and the Creative Arts Therapies and Colorful Place: Mindful Story and Art for Kids, and her work has been featured in Psychotherapy Networker. With dual master’s degrees in Art Therapy and Marriage and Family Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University, Jocelyn blends traditional talk therapy with expressive arts to support clients navigating anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors. She has worked in diverse clinical settings across the country and served as an adjunct professor at Indiana University and Purdue University. Jocelyn is passionate about helping others live more authentic, connected, and creative lives.Check out Jocelyn Fitzgerald's Etsy shop here Download a FREE resource Jocelyn created here.Buy Jocelyn Fitzgerald's book, EMDR and the Creative Arts Therapies, here.Additional Resources:Are you a helping professional who wants to learn more about the Safe + Sound Protocol (SSP)? 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! Bumble is the dating app built with a focus on meaningful and authentic relationships and with the belief that love—in all its forms—is the foundation to a happy, healthy life. Bumble helps you find the real, intentional connections you're looking for. Download the app for free today on the App Store or Google Play and learn more at Bumble.com!Therapists and mental health professionals: I created a FREE video to help you feel more confident in supporting survivors of sexual violence in an embodied and trauma sensitive manner. Check it out here!If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership - open to anyone, not just therapists - submit your info on this form. Thanks!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyChatPodcastTherapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website to learn about my upcoming retreat, put your name on the waitlist for TTN membership, find discounts on CE trainings, purchase my course, schedule a clinical consultation, access 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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out PharmaNutra and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Oct 20, 2025 • 1h 1min
501: EMDR Protocol For Attachment Trauma In Children with Debra Wesselmann
This week, I'm speaking with Debra Wesselmann about attachment injuries in children and families. We discussed the importance of early intervention in attachment wounds, the integration of EMDR therapy, and the development of the Integrative Attachment Trauma Protocol for Children.The conversation highlights the complexities of parent-child dynamics in therapy and the profound impact of trauma on children's development. Wesselmann shares insights on how therapists can create a safe and supportive environment for healing, emphasizing the need for collaboration between parents and therapists to foster healthier attachments and emotional regulation in children.Debra Wesselmann, MS, LIMHP has specialized in treating attachment trauma for over 30 years. In 2008, along with several like-minded colleagues, she co-founded The Attachment and Trauma Center of Nebraska, where she co-developed and researched the integrative family therapy and EMDR therapy model for treating attachment trauma in children. In addition to her clinical work, she offers trainings and is on faculty with the EMDR Institute. She’s authored and co-authored several articles, chapters, and books related to attachment and trauma, including the updated and expanded “EMDR and Family Therapy: Integrative Treatment for Attachment Trauma in Children, 2nd edition. Learn more about Debra at: https://debrawesselmann.com/ Are you a helping professional who wants to learn more about the Safe + Sound Protocol (SSP)? 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! Bumble is the dating app built with a focus on meaningful and authentic relationships and with the belief that love—in all its forms—is the foundation to a happy, healthy life. Bumble helps you find the real, intentional connections you're looking for. Download the app for free today on the App Store or Google Play and learn more at Bumble.com!Therapists and mental health professionals: I created a FREE video to help you feel more confident in supporting survivors of sexual violence in an embodied and trauma sensitive manner. Check it out here! If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership - open to anyone, not just therapists - submit your info on this form. Thanks!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyChatPodcastTherapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website for discounts on CE trainings, 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.Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions: https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out PharmaNutra and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Oct 6, 2025 • 31min
500: Behind The Scenes Of My Shame Storm - During An Interview About Shame
This episode dives into a personal journey of vulnerability during a live interview on shame. Just before going on stage, the host faced devastating news about a family member, causing a rush of emotions. She candidly shares her struggles with asking for help and the shame that comes with it. A powerful transformation occurred when support arrived unexpectedly, highlighting the importance of community care. The discussion also emphasizes how early experiences shape our beliefs about vulnerability and the healing power of genuine connection.

Sep 23, 2025 • 49min
499: Trauma + The Vestibular System with Kim Barthel
In this enlightening conversation, Kim Barthel, a seasoned Canadian occupational therapist with over 41 years of experience, delves into the intricate connections between trauma and the vestibular system. She discusses how developmental trauma impacts sensory processing and emphasizes the importance of co-regulation in therapy. Kim shares fascinating insights on the role of the Vagus Nerve, sound healing therapies, and how trauma can shift visual attention. Her holistic approach highlights the significance of embracing neurodiversity and understanding the body’s response to trauma.

Sep 16, 2025 • 49min
498: The Impact of Religious Trauma with SC Nealy
This week's episode of Therapy Chat is on a topic which we've covered before - religious trauma. This week's guest, SC Nealy (they/she) discusses the impact of religious trauma and offers additional perspective into the harm it can cause for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Our conversation was fascinating to me, and I hope you'll find many valuable insights through listening to our discussion. With over 15 years in the mental health field, SC Nealy is a queer, gender fluid psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, and group practice owner in Arlington, VA. SC operates a team of all gay and trans-identifying therapists with the focus of bringing clinicians with lived experiences to the queer community and their families. They also work locally and nationally to advocate for queer rights, accessible mental health care, and bringing more awareness to the needs of the queer community. Their upcoming book published by Bloomsbury Academics, Healing Sacred Wounds, focuses on giving folx a guide map for processing and exploring their experiences in religious or spiritual trauma. Learn more about SC Nealy and their work at: https://lgbtcounselingdmv.com .Therapists and mental health professionals: I created a FREE video to help you feel more confident in supporting survivors of sexual violence in an embodied and trauma sensitive manner. Check it out here!If you're interested in being notified when I announce the details of the new Therapy Chat membership - open to anyone, not just therapists - submit your info on this form. Thanks!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyChatPodcastTherapists, visit the new For Therapists page on the Trauma Therapist Network website for discounts on CE trainings, 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.Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions: https://vaudeoproductions.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out PharmaNutra and use my code CHAT for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands


