My guest today is Leidy Klotz. Leidy is a Professor at the University of Virginia, with appointments in Engineering, Architecture, and Business. He studies the science of design: how we transform things from how they are to how we want them to be. He has secured over $10 million in competitive funding to support this new area of research. To share research insights with those who can use them, he has written more than 80 articles and two books. His most recent book is called Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less.Some of the topics we explore include:- The research and insights that led to writing his book Subtract-How neglecting to consider subtraction can create challenges in our lives -The role that our environmental spaces can play in wellbeing -The similarities and difference between subtracting and minimalism-How Leidy works to integrate these ideas work into his own life- How subtraction can be useful in places like therapy, music, and relationships—————————————————————————Leidy website: https://www.leidyklotz.com/Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less: https://a.co/d/hzbeMBg—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Leidy Klotz. Leidy is a Professor at the University of Virginia, with appointments in Engineering, Architecture, and Business. He studies the science of design: how we transform things from how they are to how we want them to be. He has secured over $10 million in competitive funding to support this new area of research. To share research insights with those who can use them, he has written more than 80 articles and two books. His most recent book is called Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less.Some of the topics we explore include: - The research and insights that led to writing his book Subtract -How neglecting to consider subtraction can create challenges in our lives  -The role that our environmental spaces can play in wellbeing  -The similarities and difference between subtracting and minimalism -How Leidy works to integrate these ideas work into his own life - How subtraction can be useful in places like therapy, music, and relationships—————————————————————————Leidy website: <a href="https://www.leidyklotz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.leidyklotz.com/</a>Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less: <a href="https://a.co/d/hzbeMBg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://a.co/d/hzbeMBg</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Leidy Klotz | The Untapped Science of Less

Yael Schonbrun

My guest today is Yael Schonbrun, PhD. Yael is a clinical psychologist, assistant professor at Brown University,  and co-host of Psychologists Off the Clock.  Yael’s academic research explores the interaction between relationship problems and mental health conditions. She has authored chapters in several books and has written dozens of scientific articles. In her private practice, writing, and podcasting, Yael uses evidence-based science to help individuals and couples learn to manage work, parenting, and marriage in more effective and fulfilling ways. She draws upon treatments that integrate ancient Eastern philosophy with scientifically backed practices. Yael’s writing on work, parenting, and relationships has appeared in places the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Her new book is Work, Parent, Thrive: 12 Science-Backed Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection (When Everything Feels Like too Much).Some of the topics we explore include:- What is was like for Yael to bring her own life experience into Work, Parent, Thrive- The difference between approaching problems “inside out” vs “outside in” - The challenges associated with balancing multiple important life roles- The books, ideas, and people that influenced Yeal’s new book- The importance of removing things from our lives instead of exclusively adding- How ACT is integrated into Yael’s clinical work with couples- We end by exploring both of our experiences podcasting —————————————————————————Yael’s website: https://yaelschonbrun.com/Work, Parent, Thrive: https://www.shambhala.com/work-parent-thrive.html—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Yael Schonbrun, PhD. Yael is a clinical psychologist, assistant professor at Brown University,  and co-host of <a href="https://www.offtheclockpsych.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Psychologists Off the Clock</a>.  Yael’s academic research explores the interaction between relationship problems and mental health conditions. She has authored chapters in several books and has written dozens of scientific articles. In her private practice, writing, and podcasting, Yael uses evidence-based science to help individuals and couples learn to manage work, parenting, and marriage in more effective and fulfilling ways. She draws upon treatments that integrate ancient Eastern philosophy with scientifically backed practices. Yael’s writing on work, parenting, and relationships has appeared in places the <a href="https://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/author/yael-chatav-schonbrun/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">New York Times</a> and <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/work-life-conflict-cant-be-solvedand-thats-a-good-thing-11593230460" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wall Street Journal</a>. Her new book is <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Work-Parent-Thrive-Science-Backed-Strategies/dp/1611809657/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&amp;qid=1675701221&amp;sr=1-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Work, Parent, Thrive: 12 Science-Backed Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection (When Everything Feels Like too Much)</a>.Some of the topics we explore include: - What is was like for Yael to bring her own life experience into Work, Parent, Thrive - The difference between approaching problems “inside out” vs “outside in”  - The challenges associated with balancing multiple important life roles - The books, ideas, and people that influenced Yeal’s new book - The importance of removing things from our lives instead of exclusively adding - How ACT is integrated into Yael’s clinical work with couples - We end by exploring both of our experiences podcasting —————————————————————————Yael’s website: <a href="https://yaelschonbrun.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://yaelschonbrun.com/</a>Work, Parent, Thrive: <a href="https://www.shambhala.com/work-parent-thrive.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.shambhala.com/work-parent-thrive.html</a> —————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Yael Schonbrun PhD | Work, Parent, Thrive

My guests today are David Juncos and Elvire de Paiva e Pona.David Juncos is a clinical psychologist based in Philadelphia, PA. He works with individuals on clinical issues ranging from anxiety to mood and substance use disorders He is also on faculty with the Voice Study Centre in the UK, where he lectures on topics such as peak performance and statistics/research design, and trains music teachers in using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) principles to address performance anxiety and enhance music performance.Based in Vienna, Elvire de Paiva e Pona is a classically trained singer who performs internationally. With degrees in vocal pedagogy and psychology in addition to vocal performance, she is also a dedicated educator and teaches individual and group singing lessons and facilitates music classes for young children.We explore a range of topics including:- The story behind Dave and Elvire collaboration for their new book. ACT for Musicians-How ACT can support musicians in both formal clinical approaches as well as music lessons-How Elvire’s direct experience as a professional musician has played an important role in this work-Some of the barriers within music education to integrate mental and emotional components -Some of the common challenges musicians face including:       - Performance anxiety       - Perfectionism       - Shame and self-critical thinking- Hopes for the future of ACT within music —————————————————————————ACT for Musicians: https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Musicians-Acceptance-Commitment-Performance/dp/1627343814—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guests today are David Juncos and Elvire de Paiva e Pona.David Juncos is a clinical psychologist based in Philadelphia, PA. He works with individuals on clinical issues ranging from anxiety to mood and substance use disorders He is also on faculty with the Voice Study Centre in the UK, where he lectures on topics such as peak performance and statistics/research design, and trains music teachers in using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) principles to address performance anxiety and enhance music performance.Based in Vienna, Elvire de Paiva e Pona is a classically trained singer who performs internationally. With degrees in vocal pedagogy and psychology in addition to vocal performance, she is also a dedicated educator and teaches individual and group singing lessons and facilitates music classes for young children.We explore a range of topics including: - The story behind Dave and Elvire collaboration for their new book. ACT for Musicians -How ACT can support musicians in both formal clinical approaches as well as music lessons -How Elvire’s direct experience as a professional musician has played an important role in this work -Some of the barriers within music education to integrate mental and emotional components  -Some of the common challenges musicians face including:        - Performance anxiety        - Perfectionism        - Shame and self-critical thinking - Hopes for the future of ACT within music —————————————————————————ACT for Musicians: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Musicians-Acceptance-Commitment-Performance/dp/1627343814" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Musicians-Acceptance-Commitment-Performance/dp/1627343814</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them!  Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

David Juncos & Elvire de Paiva e Pona | ACT for Musicians

My guest today is Tamar Black, Ph.D. Tamar is an educational and developmental psychologist in Melbourne, Australia. She has over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and parents. Tamar has extensive experience providing clinical supervision to early career and highly experienced psychologists. She also provides training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to clinicians and teacher. Tamar is the author of ACT for Treating Children, which we will be discussing today.Some of the topics we explore include:- How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy first came into her life- The important roles Russ Harris and Louise Hayes played in Tamar’s ACT development - The process behind her new book ACT for Treating Children- Some of the core differences when working with children in therapy- Looking at the hexaflex through Tamar’s adapted “ACT Kidflex” model- And how to use our own experience and psychological flexibility as an agent of change—————————————————————————Tamar’s website: https://tamarblack.com.au/ACT for Treating Children: https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Treating-Children-Acceptance-Commitment/dp/1684039762—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Tamar Black, Ph.D. Tamar is an educational and developmental psychologist in Melbourne, Australia. She has over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and parents. Tamar has extensive experience providing clinical supervision to early career and highly experienced psychologists. She also provides training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to clinicians and teacher. Tamar is the author of ACT for Treating Children, which we will be discussing today.Some of the topics we explore include: - How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy first came into her life - The important roles Russ Harris and Louise Hayes played in Tamar’s ACT development - The process behind her new book ACT for Treating Children - Some of the core differences when working with children in therapy - Looking at the hexaflex through Tamar’s adapted “ACT Kidflex” model - And how to use our own experience and psychological flexibility as an agent of change—————————————————————————Tamar’s website: <a href="https://tamarblack.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tamarblack.com.au/</a>ACT for Treating Children: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Treating-Children-Acceptance-Commitment/dp/1684039762" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Treating-Children-Acceptance-Commitment/dp/1684039762</a> —————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Tamar Black, PhD | ACT for Treating Children

My guest today is Dr. Steven C. Hayes. Steven Hayes is a Nevada Foundation Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada. An author of 47 books and nearly 670 scientific articles, his career has focused on an analysis of the nature of human language and cognition and the application of this to the understanding and alleviation of human suffering. He is the developer of Relational Frame Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), He is also a co-developer of Process-Based Therapy (PBT), a new approach to evidence-based therapies more generally, which we discuss in this episode.Some of the topics we explore include- Death and dying young- Aging and how Steve views his own process-Challenging meaninglessness to make space for conscious meaning making- We go deep on all things Process-Based Therapy- Self-compassion and how it is not helpful for some people- Making psychological flexibility more inclusive from a process-based approach - The problems with current diagnostic, syndrome based treatment - How racism and classism has been built into the traditional statistical methods - And how the concept of “ being normal” played a role in atrocities in Nazi Germany—————————————————————————Dr. Steven Hayes’ website: https://stevenchayes.com/about/Learning PBT Book: https://www.newharbinger.com/9781684037551/learning-process-based-therapy/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Steven C. Hayes. Steven Hayes is a Nevada Foundation Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada. An author of 47 books and nearly 670 scientific articles, his career has focused on an analysis of the nature of human language and cognition and the application of this to the understanding and alleviation of human suffering. He is the developer of Relational Frame Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), He is also a co-developer of Process-Based Therapy (PBT), a new approach to evidence-based therapies more generally, which we discuss in this episode.Some of the topics we explore include - Death and dying young - Aging and how Steve views his own process -Challenging meaninglessness to make space for conscious meaning making - We go deep on all things Process-Based Therapy - Self-compassion and how it is not helpful for some people - Making psychological flexibility more inclusive from a process-based approach  - The problems with current diagnostic, syndrome based treatment  - How racism and classism has been built into the traditional statistical methods  - And how the concept of “ being normal” played a role in atrocities in Nazi Germany—————————————————————————Dr. Steven Hayes’ website: <a href="https://stevenchayes.com/about/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://stevenchayes.com/about/</a> Learning PBT Book: <a href="https://www.newharbinger.com/9781684037551/learning-process-based-therapy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.newharbinger.com/9781684037551/learning-process-based-therapy/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Steven C Hayes Returns! | Death, Meaning, and Dispelling "Normal"

Ron Siegel

My guest today is Dr. Ron Siegel. Ron is an author and Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, where he has taught for over 35 years. He is a long time student of mindfulness meditation and serves on the Board of Directors and faculty of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy. He teaches internationally about the application of mindfulness practice in psychotherapy and other fields, and maintains a private clinical practice in Lincoln, MassachusettsSome of the topics we explore include:-What process behind Dr. Siegel’s new book, The Extraordinary Gift of Being Ordinary-The science behind our pursuit of specialness and comparison-How to focus on making connections, not am impressions with others-How social media can amplify our suffering -How stressful early life experiences or trauma intersects with these processes-The potential healing power of psychedelic-assisted therapy-The connection between psychopathology and self preoccupation -And we end by discussing some practical tips to shift unhelpful evaluative processes—————————————————————————Dr. Siegel’s website: https://drronsiegel.com/The Extraordinary Gift of Being Ordinary: https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Gift-Being-Ordinary-Happiness/dp/1462548547—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Ron Siegel. Ron is an author and Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, where he has taught for over 35 years. He is a long time student of mindfulness meditation and serves on the Board of Directors and faculty of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy. He teaches internationally about the application of mindfulness practice in psychotherapy and other fields, and maintains a private clinical practice in Lincoln, MassachusettsSome of the topics we explore include: -What process behind Dr. Siegel’s new book, The Extraordinary Gift of Being Ordinary -The science behind our pursuit of specialness and comparison -How to focus on making connections, not am impressions with others -How social media can amplify our suffering  -How stressful early life experiences or trauma intersects with these processes -The potential healing power of psychedelic-assisted therapy -The connection between psychopathology and self preoccupation  -And we end by discussing some practical tips to shift unhelpful evaluative processes ————————————————————————— Dr. Siegel’s website: <a href="https://drronsiegel.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://drronsiegel.com/</a>The Extraordinary Gift of Being Ordinary: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Gift-Being-Ordinary-Happiness/dp/1462548547" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Gift-Being-Ordinary-Happiness/dp/1462548547</a> ————————————————————————— If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them!  Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Ron Siegel | The Extraordinary Gift of Being Ordinary

My guest today is Jennifer Kemp, MPsych. Jennifer is a clinical psychologist who works with adults and adolescents on issues such as perfectionism, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (ODC), eating disorders, and chronic illness. Jennifer uses acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help people notice their experiences, make conscious choices “in the moment,” and move toward a fulfilling life. Some of the topics we explore include:-- How Jennifer’s own story informs her new book, The ACT Workbook for Perfectionism- The underlying processes of perfectionism and how metaphor can be used to understand them- The role of self-compassion- How exposure techniques can develop greater flexibility - The intersection of perfectionism and OCD- And we explore the impact of perfectionism on relationships and our professional lives ** PS I had an audio issue during the recording process, so I apologize in advance for my mic quality not being as strong as usual - apt for the episode on perfectionism :) **————————————————————————— Jennifer’s website: https://jenniferkemp.com.au/ The ACT Workbook for Perfectionism: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B08WJ5YK19&amp;preview=newtab&amp;linkCode=kpe&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_YTDG6CNKNNN4ARND7R7P ————————————————————————— If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them!  Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/ Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Jennifer Kemp, MPsych. Jennifer is a clinical psychologist who works with adults and adolescents on issues such as perfectionism, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (ODC), eating disorders, and chronic illness. Jennifer uses acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help people notice their experiences, make conscious choices “in the moment,” and move toward a fulfilling life. Some of the topics we explore include:- - How Jennifer’s own story informs her new book, The ACT Workbook for Perfectionism - The underlying processes of perfectionism and how metaphor can be used to understand them - The role of self-compassion - How exposure techniques can develop greater flexibility  - The intersection of perfectionism and OCD - And we explore the impact of perfectionism on relationships and our professional lives ** PS I had an audio issue during the recording process, so I apologize in advance for my mic quality not being as strong as usual - apt for the episode on perfectionism :) ** ————————————————————————— Jennifer’s website: <a href="https://jenniferkemp.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jenniferkemp.com.au/</a> The ACT Workbook for Perfectionism: <a href="https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B08WJ5YK19&amp;preview=newtab&amp;linkCode=kpe&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_YTDG6CNKNNN4ARND7R7P" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B08WJ5YK19&amp;preview=newtab&amp;linkCode=kpe&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_YTDG6CNKNNN4ARND7R7P</a> ————————————————————————— If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them!  Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a> Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Jennifer Kemp, MPsych | ACT for Perfectionism

My guest today is Diana Hill, Ph.D. Diana is a clinical psychologist and co-author of ACT Daily Journal: Get unstuck and live fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She is also the host of the podcast Your Life in Process, and she offers regular teachings in compassion and ACT through Insight LA and Mindful Heart Programs and Instagram.Through her online teachings, executive coaching, clinical supervision, and private therapy practice, she encourages clients to build psychological flexibility so that they can live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. She completed her undergraduate work at UC Santa Barbara, majoring in Biopsychology, and earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at CU Boulder where she researched mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches for eating disorders.Some of the topics we explore in this episode include :- Diana’s recent shift away from Psychologists off the Clock and into her new podcast, Your Life in Process-Being able to hold different perspectives on the world and others-The pitfalls of constantly striving -How technology can get in the way of being present in our lives-Common processes that promote human flourishing-The value and challenges of humility-And Diana helps me explore how to navigate opening up publicly —————————————————————————Diana’s website: https://drdianahill.com/ACT Daily Journal: https://drdianahill.com/book/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdianahill/Diana’s new podcast: https://drdianahill.com/your-life-in-process/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Diana Hill, Ph.D. Diana is a clinical psychologist and co-author of ACT Daily Journal: Get unstuck and live fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She is also the host of the podcast Your Life in Process, and she offers regular teachings in compassion and ACT through Insight LA and Mindful Heart Programs and Instagram.Through her online teachings, executive coaching, clinical supervision, and private therapy practice, she encourages clients to build psychological flexibility so that they can live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. She completed her undergraduate work at UC Santa Barbara, majoring in Biopsychology, and earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at CU Boulder where she researched mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches for eating disorders.Some of the topics we explore in this episode include : - Diana’s recent shift away from Psychologists off the Clock and into her new podcast, Your Life in Process -Being able to hold different perspectives on the world and others -The pitfalls of constantly striving  -How technology can get in the way of being present in our lives -Common processes that promote human flourishing -The value and challenges of humility -And Diana helps me explore how to navigate opening up publicly —————————————————————————Diana’s website: <a href="https://drdianahill.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://drdianahill.com/</a>ACT Daily Journal: <a href="https://drdianahill.com/book/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://drdianahill.com/book/</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drdianahill/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/drdianahill/</a>Diana’s new podcast: <a href="https://drdianahill.com/your-life-in-process/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://drdianahill.com/your-life-in-process/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode. <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Diana Hill Returns! | Living in Process

Billy Ryan

My guest today is Billy Ryan. Billy is a performance psychology consultant located in Savannah, GA who works with the military, sports teams, and individuals at the highschool/club, NCAA, NAIA, and the professional level. He specializes in applying ACT and behavior science to increase meaning and performance in a given context.Some of the topics we explore in this episode include:- How Billy first got into using ACT for sport performance- The importance of language and messaging in sports - The use of ACT Matrix in Billy’s work with athletes- The role of  attentional flexibility and holding outcomes lightly- The current influence of mental and emotional well-being in sports- And Billy’s hopes for the future of ACT in the world of sport—————————————————————————Billy’s website: https://www.awareperformancegroup.com/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Billy Ryan. Billy is a performance psychology consultant located in Savannah, GA who works with the military, sports teams, and individuals at the highschool/club, NCAA, NAIA, and the professional level. He specializes in applying ACT and behavior science to increase meaning and performance in a given context.Some of the topics we explore in this episode include: - How Billy first got into using ACT for sport performance - The importance of language and messaging in sports  - The use of ACT Matrix in Billy’s work with athletes - The role of  attentional flexibility and holding outcomes lightly - The current influence of mental and emotional well-being in sports - And Billy’s hopes for the future of ACT in the world of sport—————————————————————————Billy’s website: <a href="https://www.awareperformancegroup.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.awareperformancegroup.com/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Billy Ryan | ACT in Sport

Russ Harris

My guest today is Dr. Russ Harris, author of the international best-selling self-help book ‘The Happiness Trap’, and a world-renowned trainer of Acceptance &amp; Commitment Therapy (ACT). Russ’s background is in medicine and now works in two different, yet complementary roles – as a therapist and as a coach. We discuss this life shift more in the episode.Since 2005, Russ has run over 700 two-day workshops and provided ACT training for almost 50,000 health professionals. He has authored four ACT textbooks (ACT Made Simple, Trauma Focused ACT, Getting Unstuck in ACT, ACT Questions &amp; Answers), and four ACT-based self-help books (The Happiness Trap, The Reality Slap, The Confidence Gap and ACT with Love). His best-known book, The Happiness Trap, has sold over one million copies worldwide, with translations into more than 30 languages.Some of the areas we explore in this episode include:- Russ’s early career in medicine and how his own suffering was the catalyst for change-Some of the books and ideas that were influential during this transition-Russ’s first introduction to ACT and how it led to writing ‘The Happiness Trap’-His work with the WHO developing an ACT protocol for individuals in refugee camps-We discuss how pain can be used for growth, the nature of trauma, and the danger of toxic positivity-And we end by exploring some of Russ’s future goals within ACT and in other areas of life—————————————————————————Russ’s website: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Russ Harris, author of the international best-selling self-help book ‘The Happiness Trap’, and a world-renowned trainer of Acceptance &amp; Commitment Therapy (ACT). Russ’s background is in medicine and now works in two different, yet complementary roles – as a therapist and as a coach. We discuss this life shift more in the episode. Since 2005, Russ has run over 700 two-day workshops and provided ACT training for almost 50,000 health professionals. He has authored four ACT textbooks (ACT Made Simple, Trauma Focused ACT, Getting Unstuck in ACT, ACT Questions &amp; Answers), and four ACT-based self-help books (The Happiness Trap, The Reality Slap, The Confidence Gap and ACT with Love). His best-known book, The Happiness Trap, has sold over one million copies worldwide, with translations into more than 30 languages. Some of the areas we explore in this episode include: - Russ’s early career in medicine and how his own suffering was the catalyst for change -Some of the books and ideas that were influential during this transition -Russ’s first introduction to ACT and how it led to writing ‘The Happiness Trap’ -His work with the WHO developing an ACT protocol for individuals in refugee camps -We discuss how pain can be used for growth, the nature of trauma, and the danger of toxic positivity -And we end by exploring some of Russ’s future goals within ACT and in other areas of life—————————————————————————Russ’s website: <a href="https://www.actmindfully.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.actmindfully.com.au/</a>————————————————————————— If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Russ Harris | ACT: Past, Present, and Future

Join psychotherapist Tom Parkes as he has meaningful conversations to help you build mental flexibility. Each episode will explore topics related to psychology, mental health, and creativity. With an open mind and a sense of curiosity these conversations will help you better understand yourself, others, and the world around you.

Louise Hayes

My guest today is Louise Hayes PhD. Louise is a clinical psychologist, author, speaker and active humanitarian. She is the Past President of ACBS, and a peer-reviewed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT) trainer, and codeveloped of the evidence-based DNA-v model. She is the co-author of the best-selling books: Get Out of Your Mind and into your Life for Teenagers, The Thriving Adolescent, and Your Life Your Way. Louise is a clinician, working with adults and adolescents in private practice. Louise is also active community member, taking mental health professionals into the Himalaya to develop their mindfulness skills and raise funds for children in remote Nepal. In this episode we explore a range of topics including:- How Louise found ACT and the impact it had on her personally and professionally-Louise’s interest in eastern spiritual traditions-How these practices can integrate with a more clinical perspective-How imagination can play a role in both our wellbeing and our suffering -What gives Louise meaning and purpose in life-And we unpack the 4 core abilities contained within the DNA-v model—————————————————————————Louise’s website: https://www.louisehayes.com.au/Twitter: https://twitter.com/_Louise_Hayes—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Louise Hayes PhD. Louise is a clinical psychologist, author, speaker and active humanitarian. She is the Past President of ACBS, and a peer-reviewed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT) trainer, and codeveloped of the evidence-based DNA-v model. She is the co-author of the best-selling books: Get Out of Your Mind and into your Life for Teenagers, The Thriving Adolescent, and Your Life Your Way. Louise is a clinician, working with adults and adolescents in private practice. Louise is also active community member, taking mental health professionals into the Himalaya to develop their mindfulness skills and raise funds for children in remote Nepal. In this episode we explore a range of topics including: - How Louise found ACT and the impact it had on her personally and professionally -Louise’s interest in eastern spiritual traditions -How these practices can integrate with a more clinical perspective -How imagination can play a role in both our wellbeing and our suffering  -What gives Louise meaning and purpose in life -And we unpack the 4 core abilities contained within the DNA-v model—————————————————————————Louise’s website: <a href="https://www.louisehayes.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.louisehayes.com.au/</a>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/_Louise_Hayes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/_Louise_Hayes</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Louise Hayes PhD | ACT, Spirituality, and DNA-v

My guest today is Brenton. Brenton is a Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Nurse who served 9 years in the US Army as a Combat Medic. He is now an advocate for the needs of the transgender community.  Brenton is a personal friend going back to Elementary school and was graciously willing to share his story of understanding his identity and navigating the transitioning process. In this episode we explore: -When issues of identity first became conscious in elementary and middle school-How this led to significant life stressors throughout development-Brenton’s experiences first receiving mental health treatment-The early stages of understanding being transgender  -How this intersected with his involvement in the military-And we unpack many of the dynamics involved in Brenton’s internal and external transitioning process—————————————————————————Follow Brenton’s transition journey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bren_plus_t/?hl=en—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Brenton. Brenton is a Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Nurse who served 9 years in the US Army as a Combat Medic. He is now an advocate for the needs of the transgender community.  Brenton is a personal friend going back to Elementary school and was graciously willing to share his story of understanding his identity and navigating the transitioning process. In this episode we explore:  -When issues of identity first became conscious in elementary and middle school -How this led to significant life stressors throughout development -Brenton’s experiences first receiving mental health treatment -The early stages of understanding being transgender   -How this intersected with his involvement in the military -And we unpack many of the dynamics involved in Brenton’s internal and external transitioning process—————————————————————————Follow Brenton’s transition journey on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bren_plus_t/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/bren_plus_t/?hl=en</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Brenton | A Journey of Transitioning

Jessica Lahey

My guest today is Jessica Lahey. Jessica is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. Over twenty years, Jess has taught every grade from sixth to twelfth in both public and private schools, and spent five years teaching in a drug and alcohol rehab for adolescents in Vermont. She currently serves as a recovery coach at Sana at Stowe, a medical detox and recovery center in Stowe, Vermont, where 100% of her salary goes to a scholarship fund for young adults. She writes about education, parenting, and child welfare for The Washington Post, New York Times, and The Atlantic, is a book critic for Air Mail, and wrote the educational curriculum for Amazon Kids’ award-winning The Stinky and Dirty Show. She co-hosts the #AmWriting podcast with bestselling authors K.J. Dell’Antonia and Sarina Bowen from her house in Vermont, where she lives with her husband, two sons and a lot of dogs.In this episode we explore:- Jessica’s new book, The Addiction Inoculation- The complexity of whether adolescents develop substance use issues- Jessica’s personal experiences later in life with addiction - The role that AA has played in her recovery - The missing gaps in our education system for preventing substance use disorders- What it means to live in a culture of dependence—————————————————————————Jessica’s website: https://www.jessicalahey.com/Her books: https://www.jessicalahey.com/books#AmWriting Podcast: https://amwriting.substack.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jplaheyTwitter: https://twitter.com/jesslahey—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Jessica Lahey. Jessica is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. Over twenty years, Jess has taught every grade from sixth to twelfth in both public and private schools, and spent five years teaching in a drug and alcohol rehab for adolescents in Vermont. She currently serves as a recovery coach at Sana at Stowe, a medical detox and recovery center in Stowe, Vermont, where 100% of her salary goes to a scholarship fund for young adults. She writes about education, parenting, and child welfare for The Washington Post, New York Times, and The Atlantic, is a book critic for Air Mail, and wrote the educational curriculum for Amazon Kids’ award-winning The Stinky and Dirty Show. She co-hosts the #AmWriting podcast with bestselling authors K.J. Dell’Antonia and Sarina Bowen from her house in Vermont, where she lives with her husband, two sons and a lot of dogs.In this episode we explore: - Jessica’s new book, The Addiction Inoculation - The complexity of whether adolescents develop substance use issues - Jessica’s personal experiences later in life with addiction  - The role that AA has played in her recovery  - The missing gaps in our education system for preventing substance use disorders - What it means to live in a culture of dependence—————————————————————————Jessica’s website: <a href="https://www.jessicalahey.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.jessicalahey.com/</a>Her books: <a href="https://www.jessicalahey.com/books" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.jessicalahey.com/books</a>#AmWriting Podcast: <a href="https://amwriting.substack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amwriting.substack.com/</a>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jplahey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jplahey</a>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/jesslahey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/jesslahey</a> —————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Jessica Lahey | The Addiction Inoculation

My guest today is Dr. Jud Brewer. Dr. Jud is a New York Times best-selling author, neuroscientist, addiction psychiatrist, and thought leader in the field of habit change. He is the Director of Research and Innovation at Brown University’s Mindfulness Center, where he also serves as an associate professor. He is the executive medical director of behavioral health at Sharecare Inc. and a research affiliate at MIT. Dr. Jud has developed and tested novel mindfulness programs for habit change, including treatments for smoking, emotional eating, and anxiety. His new book is called “Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind” In this episode we explore a range of topics:-Dr. Jud’s early experiences with meditation and mindfulness-The dance between being the experiencer versus the researcher of mindfulness -How Dr. Jud has been able to integrate of science and spiritual traditions-How awareness can shift addictive patterns-Dr. Jud’s thoughts on psychedelic-assisted therapy-The story behind his new book, “Unwinding Anxiety” -The nature of consciousness -Dr. Jud’s thoughts on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy—————————————————————————Dr. Jud Brewer’s website Follow Dr. Jud Brewer on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter Unwinding Anxiety (app) Eat Right Now (app) Craving To Quit! (app)—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentally-flexible/id1539933988Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Jud Brewer. Dr. Jud is a New York Times best-selling author, neuroscientist, addiction psychiatrist, and thought leader in the field of habit change. He is the Director of Research and Innovation at Brown University’s Mindfulness Center, where he also serves as an associate professor. He is the executive medical director of behavioral health at Sharecare Inc. and a research affiliate at MIT. Dr. Jud has developed and tested novel mindfulness programs for habit change, including treatments for smoking, emotional eating, and anxiety. His new book is called “<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unwinding-Anxiety-Science-Shows-Cycles/dp/0593330447" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind</a>” In this episode we explore a range of topics:-Dr. Jud’s early experiences with meditation and mindfulness -The dance between being the experiencer versus the researcher of mindfulness  -How Dr. Jud has been able to integrate of science and spiritual traditions -How awareness can shift addictive patterns -Dr. Jud’s thoughts on psychedelic-assisted therapy -The story behind his new book, “Unwinding Anxiety”  -The nature of consciousness  -Dr. Jud’s thoughts on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy—————————————————————————<a href="https://drjud.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dr. Jud Brewer’s website</a> Follow Dr. Jud Brewer on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drjudapps" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dr.jud/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/judbrewer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> <a href="https://www.unwindinganxiety.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Unwinding Anxiety (app)</a> <a href="https://goeatrightnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eat Right Now (app)</a> <a href="https://www.cravingtoquit.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Craving To Quit! (app)</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentally-flexible/id1539933988" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentally-flexible/id1539933988</a> Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Jud Brewer | Cultivating an Open Awareness

Debbie Sorensen

My guest today is Debbie Sorensen, PhD. Debbie is a psychologist in private practice in Denver, Colorado, and a part-time Clinical Research Psychologist at the Rocky Mountain VA MIRECC for Suicide Prevention. She co-created and co-hosts the popular psychology podcast Psychologists Off the Clock. Further, she is a co-author of the book ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (Along with Diana Hill PhD who was also on the podcast). Debbie has presented her work nationally and internationally at ACBS World Conferences and has served as a lecturer in the psychology department at Harvard University. In this episode we explore:- How Debbie found her way to ACT- The value of emotional openness and present moment awareness- Debbie’s reflections on collaboration - Challenges associated with having a public voice- Debbie’s clinical work with those impacted by burnout- Being a therapist when we are dealing with our own life stressors—————————————————————————Debbie’s Website: https://www.drdebbiesorensen.com/Psychologists Off The Clock: https://offtheclockpsych.com/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Debbie Sorensen, PhD. Debbie is a psychologist in <a href="https://www.drdebbiesorensen.com/therapy-practice" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">private practice in Denver, Colorado</a>, and a part-time Clinical Research Psychologist at the <a href="https://www.mirecc.va.gov/visn19/aboutus.asp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rocky Mountain VA MIRECC for Suicide Prevention</a>. She co-created and co-hosts the popular psychology podcast <a href="https://www.offtheclockpsych.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Psychologists Off the Clock</a>. Further, she is a co-author of the book <a href="https://www.drdebbiesorensen.com/book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy</a> (Along with Diana Hill PhD who was also on the podcast). Debbie has presented her work nationally and internationally at <a href="https://contextualscience.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ACBS </a>World Conferences and has served as a lecturer in the psychology department at Harvard University. In this episode we explore: - How Debbie found her way to ACT - The value of emotional openness and present moment awareness - Debbie’s reflections on collaboration  - Challenges associated with having a public voice - Debbie’s clinical work with those impacted by burnout - Being a therapist when we are dealing with our own life stressors—————————————————————————Debbie’s Website: <a href="https://www.drdebbiesorensen.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.drdebbiesorensen.com/</a>Psychologists Off The Clock: <a href="https://offtheclockpsych.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://offtheclockpsych.com/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Debbie Sorensen PhD | Mindfulness, Vulnerability, and Burnout

Robyn Walser

My guest today is Robyn D. Walser, Ph.D. is the Director of TL Consultation Services, Associate Director at the National Center for PTSD and is Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California, Berkeley. As a licensed psychologist, she maintains an international training, consulting and therapy practice.Dr. Walser is an expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and has co-authored 3 books on ACT including Learning ACT, The Mindful Couple and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. She also has expertise in traumatic stress and substance abuse and has authored a number of articles and chapters and books on these topics.In this episode we explore a range of topics including:-Robyn’s first ACT workshop with Steve Hayes-Creating a space for growth through our own presence as therapists -What makes working with individuals with a trauma history unique-The concept of Moral Injury and how it relates to shame-How Robyn stays connected to her work as a therapist—————————————————————————Robyn’s Wesbite: http://www.tlconsultationservices.com/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Robyn D. Walser, Ph.D. is the Director of TL Consultation Services, Associate Director at the National Center for PTSD and is Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California, Berkeley. As a licensed psychologist, she maintains an international training, consulting and therapy practice.Dr. Walser is an expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and has co-authored 3 books on ACT including Learning ACT, The Mindful Couple and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. She also has expertise in traumatic stress and substance abuse and has authored a number of articles and chapters and books on these topics.In this episode we explore a range of topics including: -Robyn’s first ACT workshop with Steve Hayes -Creating a space for growth through our own presence as therapists  -What makes working with individuals with a trauma history unique -The concept of Moral Injury and how it relates to shame -How Robyn stays connected to her work as a therapist—————————————————————————Robyn’s Wesbite: <a href="http://www.tlconsultationservices.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.tlconsultationservices.com/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Robyn Walser PhD | Holding Presence Through Pain

My guest today is Nathalia Freitas. Nathalia is the creator of Loving My Dots, a space she created to promote connection among diversity. Nathalia was born with Congenital Melanocytic Nevus, which is a non-genetic birthmark that can form on a person’s body. This left a birthmark covering 40% of her face plus moles all over her body. Her case is an example of a giant nevus, which occurs only once in 500,000 births. From ages nine months to 13 years old, Nathalia had many surgeries to remove her facial Nevus. In 2018, Nathalia began sharing her story on social media, leading to a number of collaborations with various publications. She was also chosen to be featured in a documentary by the British news agency Barcroft TV. The first 10 minutes or so of the episode Nathalia gives an overview of her storyWe then shift into exploring more detailed parts of her journey including:- When Nathalia remembers first becoming aware of her condition - The challenges related to looking and feeling different than others - Nathalia’s conflicting narratives regarding her surgeries as a child- How the relationship with her mother played a role throughout this journey- How Nathalia supports others going through similar situations—————————————————————————Nathalia’s Website: https://www.lovingmydots.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovingmydots/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Nathalia Freitas. Nathalia is the creator of Loving My Dots, a space she created to promote connection among diversity. Nathalia was born with Congenital Melanocytic Nevus, which is a non-genetic birthmark that can form on a person’s body. This left a birthmark covering 40% of her face plus moles all over her body. Her case is an example of a giant nevus, which occurs only once in 500,000 births. From ages nine months to 13 years old, Nathalia had many surgeries to remove her facial Nevus. In 2018, Nathalia began sharing her story on social media, leading to a number of collaborations with various publications. She was also chosen to be featured in a documentary by the British news agency Barcroft TV. The first 10 minutes or so of the episode Nathalia gives an overview of her storyWe then shift into exploring more detailed parts of her journey including: - When Nathalia remembers first becoming aware of her condition  - The challenges related to looking and feeling different than others  - Nathalia’s conflicting narratives regarding her surgeries as a child - How the relationship with her mother played a role throughout this journey - How Nathalia supports others going through similar situations—————————————————————————Nathalia’s Website: <a href="https://www.lovingmydots.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.lovingmydots.com/</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lovingmydots/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/lovingmydots/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Nathalia Freitas | Healing Through Self-Acceptance and Authenticity

My guest today is Dr. Miles Neale, PsyD. Miles is a Buddhist psychotherapist in private practice and founder of the two-year online Contemplative Studies Program. Author of Gradual Awakening, and co-editor of Advances in Contemplative Psychotherapy, Miles is a faculty member of Tibet House (US) and Weill Cornell Medical College. With more than twenty years integrating the mind science and meditative practices of Tibetan Buddhism with psychotherapy, trauma research and neuroscience, Miles is a forerunner in the emerging field of contemplative psychotherapy, and leads pilgrimages around the Buddhist world.Some of the topics we discuss in this episode include:- Miles’ contemplative studies program- The importance of fully integrating fundamentals- How Miles’s childhood informed his spiritual life- Using your presence to help another person feel truly safe - And how we can bring a deeper sense of consciousness to our therapy work and every day lives—————————————————————————Dr. Miles Neale’s website: https://www.milesneale.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milesneale/—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Miles Neale, PsyD. Miles is a Buddhist psychotherapist in private practice and founder of the two-year online <a href="https://www.gradualpath.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Contemplative Studies Program</a>. Author of <a href="https://www.milesneale.com/books" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gradual Awakening</a>, and co-editor of Advances in Contemplative Psychotherapy, Miles is a faculty member of Tibet House (US) and Weill Cornell Medical College. With more than twenty years integrating the mind science and meditative practices of Tibetan Buddhism with psychotherapy, trauma research and neuroscience, Miles is a forerunner in the emerging field of contemplative psychotherapy, and leads pilgrimages around the Buddhist world. Some of the topics we discuss in this episode include: - Miles’ contemplative studies program - The importance of fully integrating fundamentals - How Miles’s childhood informed his spiritual life - Using your presence to help another person feel truly safe  - And how we can bring a deeper sense of consciousness to our therapy work and every day lives—————————————————————————Dr. Miles Neale’s website: <a href="https://www.milesneale.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.milesneale.com/</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/milesneale/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/milesneale/</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them!  Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Miles Neale | Contemplative Psychology in a Modern Context

My guest today is Dr. Patricia Zurita Ona, aka Dr. Z. Dr. Z is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California. She has significant experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with OCD, trauma, anxiety, and emotional regulation problems. Dr. Z is the founder of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center, a boutique therapy practice, where she runs an intensive outpatient program integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) to support clients getting stuck from obsessions, figure out what they care about, and do stuff that matters to them.Some of the topics we explore include:- Our interviews with Steven Hayes- How Dr. Z found her way to ACT- How ACT and Exposure have been useful for Dr. Z personally- Dr. Z’s early life in Bolivia and how it’s shaped her worldview- And how ACT can be used to treat OCD—————————————————————————Dr. Z’s website: https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/OCD Workbook: https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/act-workbook-for-adults-with-ocd/Twitter: https://twitter.com/drz_behaviorist—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Patricia Zurita Ona, aka Dr. Z. Dr. Z is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California. She has significant experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with OCD, trauma, anxiety, and emotional regulation problems. Dr. Z is the founder of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center, a boutique therapy practice, where she runs an intensive outpatient program integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) to support clients getting stuck from obsessions, figure out what they care about, and do stuff that matters to them.Some of the topics we explore include: - Our interviews with Steven Hayes - How Dr. Z found her way to ACT - How ACT and Exposure have been useful for Dr. Z personally - Dr. Z’s early life in Bolivia and how it’s shaped her worldview - And how ACT can be used to treat OCD—————————————————————————Dr. Z’s website: <a href="https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/</a>OCD Workbook: <a href="https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/act-workbook-for-adults-with-ocd/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/act-workbook-for-adults-with-ocd/</a>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/drz_behaviorist" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/drz_behaviorist</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Patricia Zurita Ona | ACT Beyond Your Fears

Rheeda Walker

My guest today is Dr. Rheeda Walker.  Dr. Walker is a tenured professor  in the department of psychology at the University of Houston. She has published more than fifty scientific papers on African American adult mental health, suicide risk, and resilience. Dr. Walker and her work has been in places like Good Morning America, The Washington Post, and CNN Health. In 2020 she released a new book called, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health, which we touch on in this episode.Some of the other topics explored in this episode include:- The rise in suicide among black children- The role of protective cultural traditions- How Dr. Walker works to stay connection to her roots- The concept of psychological fortitude  - The stigmatization of mental health in the African-American community- And navigating racial differences within the therapeutic relationship —————————————————————————Dr. Walker’s website: https://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/Book link: https://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/bookInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.rheedawalker/Twitter: https://twitter.com/rheedawalkerphd?—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/Explore the website: https://mentallyflexible.com/Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth

My guest today is Dr. Rheeda Walker.  Dr. Walker is a tenured professor  in the department of psychology at the University of Houston. She has published more than fifty scientific papers on African American adult mental health, suicide risk, and resilience. Dr. Walker and her work has been in places like Good Morning America, The Washington Post, and CNN Health. In 2020 she released a new book called, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health, which we touch on in this episode. Some of the other topics explored in this episode include: - The rise in suicide among black children - The role of protective cultural traditions - How Dr. Walker works to stay connection to her roots - The concept of psychological fortitude   - The stigmatization of mental health in the African-American community - And navigating racial differences within the therapeutic relationship —————————————————————————Dr. Walker’s website: <a href="https://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/</a>Book link: <a href="https://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/book</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dr.rheedawalker/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dr.rheedawalker/</a>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/rheedawalkerphd?" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/rheedawalkerphd?</a>—————————————————————————If you find value in the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It only takes 30 seconds and plays an important role in being able to get new guests. I also love reading them! Connect with me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/mentallyflexible/</a>Explore the website: <a href="https://mentallyflexible.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mentallyflexible.com/</a>Check out my song “Glimpse at Truth” that you hear in the intro/outro of every episode: <a href="https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://tomparkes.bandcamp.com/track/glimpse-at-truth</a>

Dr. Rheeda Walker | The Unapologetic Guide To Black Mental Health

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