

Trust & Thrive
Tara Montazeri
Welcome to Trust & Thrive! My name is Tara Montazeri and I'm an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. Through insightful and vulnerable discussions, I hope to inspire my listeners to trust the process of their unique journey and thrive as their most authentic self. I aim to encourage these actions with a conscious, practical, and attainable approach to self-reflection and community care. I often feature individuals from a multitude of professional fields, levels of expertise, and life experiences who generously share their stories and invaluable knowledge to my listeners and me. My guests and I touch on topics related to mental health, relationships, systemic issues, generational wounds, and other topics that influence us in our everyday lives. I hope these conversations encourage us to approach our journey of self-awareness in a thoughtful, mindful and compassionate way. Instagram and TikTok: @trustandthrive; Website: www.tara-mont.com; Email: trustandthrive@gmail.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 20, 2025 • 46min
307: Unpacking Burnout & the Pressure to Always Do More - with Dr. Sumi Raghavan, Clinical Psychologist & Former Psychology Professor
Dr. Sumi Raghavan is a cross-cultural clinical psychologist and former psychology professor who works with adults dealing with everything from trauma to burnout and chronic stress. She believes everybody has a culture and strives to be affirming and curious in her work. Beyond psychotherapy, she offers workshops and training to organizations looking to support the mental health and well-being of their staff. She combines her academic experience with her clinical skills to help people build resilience and learn true self-care. She can be found at www.drsumiphd.com, and on Instagram at @DrSumiPHD. When she's not working, she's a proud rebel perfectionist with many hobbies that she does badly, a reader of beach books year round, and a parent of two wonderful humans who keep her own her toes.In this episode, we discuss misconceptions around burnout, including how it's more than long hours or being “tired.” We explore how burnout can include emotional, physical, and cultural aspects, and how it can shaped by the systems we live in, the identities we hold, and the messages we’ve taken on about productivity and worth.Overall, we explore burnout through a culturally competent lens. We discuss how COVID-19 reshaped our capacity and expectations, visible and invisible symptoms of burnout (fatigue, cynicism, decreased effectiveness, emotional numbness), and how capitalism reinforces overworking, self-sacrifice, and guilt around rest. We also touch on the role of identity, family expectations, and cultural narratives. Dr. Sumi also shares how workplace dynamics can make burnout harder to name.We also unpack what burnout feels like day-to-day, not just what textbooks and social media posts say. FOLLOW DR. SUMI RAGHAVAN:INSTA: @drsumiphdWEBSITE: www.drsumiphd.comSTAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveTHREADS: @trustandthriveFACEBOOK: bit.ly/FBtaramontEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Nov 13, 2025 • 25min
306: OCD and the Fear of Being "Found Out"
In this solo episode, I open up about my personal experience with OCD and the fear of being “found out." I talk about the constant worry many with OCD have that they're not as good, moral, or put-together as others might think. I share how this fear has shown up in both my personal and professional life, and how it connects to themes like moral OCD (or moral scrupulosity) and relationship OCD.I share what it may feel like when those thoughts try to convince you that you’re living a lie, that you’ve done something wrong, or that you need to always prove you’re a good person....and how exhausting it can be to live that way.This episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and that this fear is common with OCD, and not a reflection of your worth.I’m so thankful that you're here and hope you know you are not alone.STAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Nov 6, 2025 • 55min
305: Normalizing Therapy for Men & Reframing Vulnerability - with Dr. Audra Horney, Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Audra Horney is a licensed psychologist and founder of a thriving private practice devoted to men’s mental health. Known online as “the therapist for men,” she helps men untangle the emotional, relational, and cultural pressures that keep them disconnected from their true selves. Her work blends clinical depth with cultural commentary, destigmatizing therapy for men and reframing vulnerability as strength.Beyond her 1:1 therapy practice, Dr. Horney offers therapy intensives and men's retreats, including the upcoming “Drop the Mask: From Protector to True Self” retreat in Moab, Utah scheduled for April 2026. Through her viral social-media presence and weekly newsletter "You’ve Got Male," she’s redefining how men and those who love them think about emotional health, authenticity, and modern masculinity.In this episode, we share a conversation on vulnerability in the therapeutic space and what it looks like to normalize men's mental health in our everyday lives, not just in the therapeutic space.We talk about some ways men may show up differently in the therapy room, the role social media (especially TikTok) plays in normalizing men’s emotions, and how anonymity online can actually create space for deeper honesty.We also discuss what it means to balance authenticity and boundaries as a therapist, and how clinicians can advocate for men’s emotional wellbeing, while holding space for nuance and understanding.FOLLOW DR. AUDRA HORNEY:INSTA: @dr.audra.horneyTIKOK: @dr.audra.horneyFIND A THERAPIST: https://stan.store/draudrahorneySTAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveTHREADS: @trustandthriveFACEBOOK: bit.ly/FBtaramontEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Oct 30, 2025 • 39min
304: ADHD, Relationships, & Rejection Sensitivity - with Dr. Carrie Jackson, Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Carrie Jackson is a licensed psychologist who specializes in ADHD, and has ADHD herself. She’s passionate about supporting parents of kids with ADHD through both her clinical work and an online course she created just for them. Dr. Carrie is also a content creator who shares guidance and encouragement with parents of ADHD kids online, and she runs a private practice focused on helping families thrive.In this episode, we explore the complexities of ADHD beyond attention and focus. We explore how ADHD can impact relationships, self-worth, and emotional regulation.We discuss rejection sensitivity, communication challenges, and the emotional toll ADHD can have on individuals and their loved ones, especially in romantic relationships. We unpack the overlap between ADHD and anxiety, how executive functioning struggles show up in daily life, and why shame often accompanies these struggles.We explore strategies for managing ADHD symptoms, improving productivity without burnout, and finding support that honors each individual's needs. FOLLOW DR. CARRIE JACKSON:INSTA: @dr.carriejacksonWEBSITE: www.drcarriejackson.comSTAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveTHREADS: @trustandthriveFACEBOOK: bit.ly/FBtaramontEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Oct 23, 2025 • 26min
303: Navigating a Personal OCD Flare-Up
In this solo episode, I open up about my recent OCD flare-up and thoughts that have come up. I share details of my thoughts in this episode, not to engage with them, but to simply name them and normalize these experiences.Even today, I continue to work on my relationship to these thoughts and have compassion for myself as I go through ups and downs of living with OCD.I hope this episode can remind you that recovery isn't linear and that there is hope, even on the tough days. STAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Oct 16, 2025 • 42min
302: Reducing the Stigma Around Harm OCD - with Nathan Peterson, Licensed OCD & Anxiety Specialist
Nathan is a mental health specialist who transforms lives through his expertise in OCD, anxiety, tics, Tourette's, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). With extensive clinical experience across inpatient hospitals, schools, and his thriving private practice in Allen, Texas, Nathan has pioneered innovative self-directed online programs that make specialized mental health care accessible worldwide. His popular YouTube channel has reached millions, delivering evidence-based guidance with the kind of compassionate support that has made him a trusted voice in the field. When he's not working with clients, Nathan is busy breaking down barriers to mental health treatment—proving that effective care can be both deeply personal and remarkably far-reaching.In this episode, we discuss the stigma around OCD, especially the subtype of Harm OCD. We explore what Harm OCD actually is (and what it isn’t), the many ways OCD can show up beyond common stereotypes, and why so many people experience shame and confusion around their thoughts. We also talk about evidence-based treatment approaches like ERP and ACT, how to support loved ones struggling with OCD, and what it’s like showing up online as a mental health professional to reduce stigma and share more accurate information.FOLLOW NATHAN:INSTA: @ocdandanxietyonlineYOUTUBE: @ocdandanxietyonlineSTAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveTHREADS: @trustandthriveFACEBOOK: bit.ly/FBtaramontEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 4min
301: Understanding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - with Dr. Steven C. Hayes, Psychologist & Originator of ACT
Dr. Steven C. Hayes is an Emeritus Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Reno, and President of the Institute for Better Health. He is the founder of Contextual Behavioral Science, which includes Relational Frame Theory (RFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). His work has shaped modern understandings of psychological flexibility, process-based therapy, and human cooperation through Prosocial.Author of 47 books and nearly 700 scientific articles, Dr. Hayes is among the most cited psychologists in the world. His contributions have earned him numerous honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.What a privilege to have spoken with Dr. Hayes. In this episode, we talk about all things ACT. Dr. Hayes shares about his personal experiences that inspired him to get into the field, the importance of honoring our human side and pain as therapists, along with the ways ACT relates to our everyday human experiences. This was a real treat - hope you enjoy!FOLLOW DR. HAYES:INSTA: @drstevenchayesWEBSITE: https://stevenchayes.com/STAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveTHREADS: @trustandthriveFACEBOOK: bit.ly/FBtaramontEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Sep 18, 2025 • 35min
300: Celebrating 300 Episodes - Learning, Growing, & Leaning Into Uncertainty
300 episodes!!! In this special 300th episode of Trust & Thrive, I take a step back to reflect on the journey so far - from the very first recording and IG post (on an account that wasn't even @trustandthrive at the time) to where we are today. I share lessons I've learned, and how leaning into uncertainty has been both terrifying and rewarding...leading to this amazing community.I share my gratitude for this incredible community that has supported, listened, and grown with me over the past 7+ years. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or recently joined, I'm so happy you're here.Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here's to 300 more episode and more!STAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Sep 11, 2025 • 39min
299: Being a Therapist While Navigating My Own Mental Health
In this solo episode, I share my experience starting out as a therapist a few years ago, including memories of my very first session during internship, the feelings of anxiety, and the pressure I felt to “have it all together.” I talk about my own mental health struggles, and how I've worked through feelings of shame around this...now viewing them as part of what makes me the therapist I am.I open vulnerably about what it means to me to be therapist and a human in the room, and how our struggles can shape the way we show up with others.Almost to the 300th episode!!STAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com

Sep 4, 2025 • 28min
298: Understanding Mental Compulsions in OCD
In this episode, I dive deep into the part of OCD that is not too often discussed: mental compulsions. Many of us are familiar with physical rituals like checking or handwashing...that being said, mental compulsions can be just as exhausting, and even harder to notice.I go into detail about what mental compulsions can look like and share examples, including mental checking, neutralizing thoughts, analyzing, reassurance-seeking in your head, rumination, and more. I’ll also share specific examples to help you recognize when OCD shows up in these subtle ways, and why noticing and identifying them is a key step in recovery. I also share how mental compulsions can show up in Pure O OCD specifically. Whether you live with OCD yourself, support someone who does, or simply want to learn more about it, I hope this episode can be an introduction to this side of OCD that is not discussed enough. You are not alone. STAY CONNECTED:INSTA: @trustandthriveTIKOK: @trustandthriveEMAIL: trustandthrive@gmail.com


