The Science of Psychotherapy

In this conversation, psychotherapist Sophia Vale Galano joins Richard Hill to discuss her book Calming Teenage Anxiety: A Parent's Guide. Galano shares insights from her clinical work with teens and parents, explaining how anxiety manifests in adolescents today amid modern pressures such as social media, academic stress, and rapid cultural change. She offers practical strategies for parents—emphasizing active listening over "fixing," self-awareness, modeling emotional regulation, and fostering open, nonjudgmental communication. The discussion explores cultural factors, the parent–teen feedback loop of anxiety, and holistic support options including therapy, boundaries, self-care, and mind–body practices like yoga. For professionals go to https://www.thescienceofpsychotherapy.net

Join Richard Hill in conversation with Nevin Harper and Will Dobud as they explore their new book Kids These Days. The discussion covers the challenges facing today's young people, how adults can better understand youth behavior, and the role of outdoor and experiential therapies in helping young people thrive. For more about the book go to https://www.kidsthesedaysbook.com/

Jessica Dibb, author of "Breathwork and Psychotherapy" and founder of the Inspiration Consciousness School, shares her transformative journey from ballet to breathwork. She discusses how modern stress disrupts natural breathing, leading to increased interest in breath practices. Jessica explains breathwork's role in trauma processing and empowerment, and outlines five breathwork categories for therapeutic use. She also highlights a simple breathing technique proven to reduce anxiety and emphasizes the importance of collective empathy through silent walks.

Ana Gomez is a seasoned clinician and author specializing in EMDR and somatic therapies for complex trauma. In this discussion, she unveils her new book on EMDR-Sandtray-based therapy, highlighting how this integrative approach helps children process trauma through safety and distance. Ana details techniques for accessing interoception and managing dissociation with sandtray work. She emphasizes the importance of therapist presence, experiential learning, and how nonverbal methods foster profound change without immediate cognitive insight.

Niall Geoghegan, author and curator of experiential-psychotherapies.com, dives into his book on experiential therapy for trauma treatment, outlining 15 distinct therapeutic approaches. He emphasizes engaging the emotional brain and the importance of a collaborative therapist stance. Niall also discusses the risks of strict allegiance to one therapeutic school and how integrating new techniques can enrich practice. The conversation wraps up with details on a webinar series aiming to build community and offer continued education for practitioners.

In this engaging conversation, Melanie Weller, a New Orleans-based therapist specializing in the intersection of physical and mental health, delves into the intricate relationship between the body, time, and emotional well-being. They discuss the significance of the vagus nerve, movement techniques, and sensory experiences for holistic healing. Weller emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma and its effects on the body, while also exploring the interplay of language, time perception, and personal narratives in fostering resilience.

In this insightful discussion, Michael Alcee, a clinical psychologist and author of "The Upside of OCD," reveals the positive aspects of obsessive-compulsive disorder. He emphasizes the power of creativity in therapy, advocating for a shift from seeing OCD as a deficit to recognizing personal strengths. Alcee shares moving anecdotes about the emotional depths underlying phobias and the therapeutic benefits of acting. He also explores the complex relationship between OCD, literature, and self-discovery, making a compelling case for understanding and redefining the condition.

Ross Ellenhorn, a psychotherapist and sociologist with a PhD, discusses the creative journey in his book, *Purple Crayons: The Art of Drawing a Life*. He shares personal experiences of stigma and the impact of labels on identity. Ross emphasizes the importance of play in fostering empathy and aliveness. The conversation delves into the necessity of holding and improvisation in modern culture. They also explore how hope can guide creativity, the healing power of community programs, and the crucial role of responsiveness in therapy.

Dr. Chris Aiken, a psychiatrist and the director of the Mood Treatment Center, dives into the intricate world of bipolar disorder. He reveals how cultural contexts can shape the signs of mania, discussing distinct examples from various communities. Aiken emphasizes the bipolar-unipolar spectrum and the role of circadian rhythms in managing mood disorders. He shares exciting insights about the gut microbiome's impact on mood and offers practical strategies like 'social rhythm therapy' to help stabilize mental health. A thought-provoking exploration of mood in modern life!

Rita Princi-Hubbard, a clinical psychologist and director of the Institute for Neuroscience and Education, dives into the crucial intersection of teacher wellbeing and neuroscience-informed education. She discusses how compassion-focused therapy can empower teachers and improve student relationships. Rita reveals insights into the shortcomings of current teacher training and shares strategies to combat burnout. Join her as she highlights practical classroom tools, the importance of self-compassion, and fascinating findings on teacher-student dynamics.