Evan Roberson

Tri County Behavioral Health Care is the government mental health authority for Montgomery, Liberty, and Walker Counties, offering a wide range of services for both children and adults. Joining us in conversation today is Evan Roberson, who directs the program. Join us to hear how Tri County works to serve those from all sorts of backgrounds, how they are equipped to support the most complex children and adults, and what their treatment looks like. Evan talks about mental health management beyond treatment, and you’ll learn why the implications of long term drug use are often confused for a diagnosis of schizophrenia. We also discuss why folks with medical insurance choose Tri County over private care, and what to expect from non-crisis and crisis care. Evan leaves us with a message of hope around the growing awareness around the need for mental health care for all. Join us to hear all this and more today!Key Points From This Episode:Welcome to today’s guest, Evan Roberson, director of Tri County Behavioral Health Care.The role of Tri County Health Care, as a local mental health authority, and a local intellectual disability authority.Their work as a provider as well as state coordination and policy development.Evan’s evolving roles in different community centers from crisis staff to IT, and director.Their rate structure to serve those with financial difficulties.The big three adult mental illnesses: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe forms of depression, and schizoaffective disorder.The state’s ANSA assessment to determine eligibility: Adult Needs Strength Assessment.Which kids they serve: those with serious emotional disturbances from four years old.Comorbidities in kids including trauma, autism, and ADHD symptoms.Which patients are best suited to their care.What schizophrenic patients experience: voices, paranoia, sensory delusions and cognitive difficulties.The pivotal role of maintaining your mental health in order to function with the rest of society.Conflating the effects of long term drug use with the condition of schizophrenia.Why people with health insurance seek out their services: they are the fastest!The process of coming in starting with a financial assessment followed by triage and a same-day intake visit.Wait time for an adult psychiatrist visit: three to ten days.Wait time for a child psychiatrist visit: three weeks.Why the majority of adults are on medication but only a small percentage of the kids are.The targeted case management and skills training that each patient receives.Other therapies that are funded separately to the federal funded services.What the crisis treatment process looks like from arrival to creation of a clinical plan.What motivates many Tri County employees to work there. How the pandemic has made us all more comfortable talking about mental health, making treatment so much more accessible.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Tri County Behavioral HealthcareEvan Roberson on LinkedInEvan Roberson on Twitter

Tri County Behavioral Health Care is the government mental health authority for Montgomery, Liberty, and Walker Counties, offering a wide range of services for both children and adults. Joining us in conversation today is Evan Roberson, who directs the program. Join us to hear how Tri County works to serve those from all sorts of backgrounds, how they are equipped to support the most complex children and adults, and what their treatment looks like. Evan talks about mental health management beyond treatment, and you’ll learn why the implications of long term drug use are often confused for a diagnosis of schizophrenia. We also discuss why folks with medical insurance choose Tri County over private care, and what to expect from non-crisis and crisis care. Evan leaves us with a message of hope around the growing awareness around the need for mental health care for all. Join us to hear all this and more today! Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Welcome to today’s guest, Evan Roberson, director of Tri County Behavioral Health Care.</li><li>The role of Tri County Health Care, as a local mental health authority, and a local intellectual disability authority.</li><li>Their work as a provider as well as state coordination and policy development.</li><li>Evan’s evolving roles in different community centers from crisis staff to IT, and director.</li><li>Their rate structure to serve those with financial difficulties.</li><li>The big three adult mental illnesses: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe forms of depression, and schizoaffective disorder.</li><li>The state’s ANSA assessment to determine eligibility: Adult Needs Strength Assessment.</li><li>Which kids they serve: those with serious emotional disturbances from four years old.</li><li>Comorbidities in kids including trauma, autism, and ADHD symptoms.</li><li>Which patients are best suited to their care.</li><li>What schizophrenic patients experience: voices, paranoia, sensory delusions and cognitive difficulties.</li><li>The pivotal role of maintaining your mental health in order to function with the rest of society.</li><li>Conflating the effects of long term drug use with the condition of schizophrenia.</li><li>Why people with health insurance seek out their services: they are the fastest!</li><li>The process of coming in starting with a financial assessment followed by triage and a same-day intake visit.</li><li>Wait time for an adult psychiatrist visit: three to ten days.</li><li>Wait time for a child psychiatrist visit: three weeks.</li><li>Why the majority of adults are on medication but only a small percentage of the kids are.</li><li>The targeted case management and skills training that each patient receives.</li><li>Other therapies that are funded separately to the federal funded services.</li><li>What the crisis treatment process looks like from arrival to creation of a clinical plan.</li><li>What motivates many Tri County employees to work there. </li><li>How the pandemic has made us all more comfortable talking about mental health, making treatment so much more accessible.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://tcbhc.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tri County Behavioral Healthcare </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-roberson-80530956/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Evan Roberson on LinkedIn </a><a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/tricountyed" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Evan Roberson on Twitter</a>

Navigating the Government Mental Health Authority - Evan Roberson

Carolyn Robistow

Between the extremes of Clinical Substance Abuse and Teetotaler is the much larger category of Gray Area Drinking. Here today to discuss the topic is therapist, gray area drinking coach, and board member at Mosaics of Mercy, Carolyn Robistow. Join us today to hear Carolyn’s hard-earned perspective on what she calls ‘Groundhog Day Drinking’ and what to do about it. You’ll hear what Carolyn does when she realizes that someone needs support for Clinical Substance Abuse, and why she believes that people’s response to your changed relationship with drinking says absolutely nothing about you. We talk about resolving points of disconnection within your value structure, and she shares what she thinks of as the trifecta of change: making fully informed decisions, finding daily support, and being a subcortical change maker. We touch on Brainspotting, the influence of the pandemic, and Carolyn shares an inspiring story of hope from her own life. Thanks for joining us!Key Points From This Episode:Defining Clinical Substance Abuse, Gray Area Drinking, and Teetotaller.How many people are dealing in this area: approximately 30% of people.An introduction to therapist and gray area drinking coach, Carolyn Robistow.Why she refers to ‘Gray Drinking’ as Groundhog Day Drinking.Three subdivisions of category: White Knuckling Avoiders, Rule Creating Moderators, and Special Occasion Slippers.What she calls the Groundhog Day Drinker’s Circle of Shame.The telltale sign of Groundhog Day Drinking: the mental energy dedicated to alcohol.How Carolyn identifies, based on the initial consultation if someone needs more support.Common things people say if they are in the Groundhog Day Drinking culture.Why people’s response to you no longer drinking says nothing about you.Assessing your value structure and where the points of disconnection are.The trifecta of change: the fully informed decision-maker, daily support, and the subcortical change maker.Why Brainspotting is one of her preferred methods.The importance of researching groups to make sure they are having the conversations you want to be part of. How the pandemic has impacted Gray Area Drinking.Navigating social situations where we would usually be drinking: confidence!Realizing that you are not on people’s radar the way that you might think.Carolyn’s story of hope: the feeling of hopefulness, freedom, and happiness she feels on the other side.Sherry’s joy at having a front-row seat to people’s healing and happiness.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Carolyn RobistowCarolyn Robistow on InstagramHope Pieced TogetherMosaics of MercySherry Burkhard on LinkedIn

Between the extremes of Clinical Substance Abuse and Teetotaler is the much larger category of Gray Area Drinking. Here today to discuss the topic is therapist, gray area drinking coach, and board member at Mosaics of Mercy, Carolyn Robistow. Join us today to hear Carolyn’s hard-earned perspective on what she calls ‘Groundhog Day Drinking’ and what to do about it. You’ll hear what Carolyn does when she realizes that someone needs support for Clinical Substance Abuse, and why she believes that people’s response to your changed relationship with drinking says absolutely nothing about you. We talk about resolving points of disconnection within your value structure, and she shares what she thinks of as the trifecta of change: making fully informed decisions, finding daily support, and being a subcortical change maker. We touch on Brainspotting, the influence of the pandemic, and Carolyn shares an inspiring story of hope from her own life. Thanks for joining us! Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Defining Clinical Substance Abuse, Gray Area Drinking, and Teetotaller.</li><li>How many people are dealing in this area: approximately 30% of people.</li><li>An introduction to therapist and gray area drinking coach, Carolyn Robistow.</li><li>Why she refers to ‘Gray Drinking’ as Groundhog Day Drinking.</li><li>Three subdivisions of category: White Knuckling Avoiders, Rule Creating Moderators, and Special Occasion Slippers.</li><li>What she calls the Groundhog Day Drinker’s Circle of Shame.</li><li>The telltale sign of Groundhog Day Drinking: the mental energy dedicated to alcohol.</li><li>How Carolyn identifies, based on the initial consultation if someone needs more support.</li><li>Common things people say if they are in the Groundhog Day Drinking culture.</li><li>Why people’s response to you no longer drinking says nothing about you.</li><li>Assessing your value structure and where the points of disconnection are.</li><li>The trifecta of change: the fully informed decision-maker, daily support, and the subcortical change maker.</li><li>Why Brainspotting is one of her preferred methods.</li><li>The importance of researching groups to make sure they are having the conversations you want to be part of. </li><li>How the pandemic has impacted Gray Area Drinking.</li><li>Navigating social situations where we would usually be drinking: confidence!</li><li>Realizing that you are not on people’s radar the way that you might think.</li><li>Carolyn’s story of hope: the feeling of hopefulness, freedom, and happiness she feels on the other side.</li><li>Sherry’s joy at having a front-row seat to people’s healing and happiness.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.carolynrobistow.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carolyn Robistow</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/carolynrobistow/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carolyn Robistow on Instagram </a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/hope-pieced-together/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hope Pieced Together </a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-burkhard-9a128b16a/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sherry Burkhard on LinkedIn</a>

Gray Area Drinking with Carolyn Robistow, LPC

Denise Cipolla

Your job as a parent is to advocate for your child, particularly when there is a mental health concern because we want our children to know that, if they’re going through something emotionally, it impacts the whole family. Therapy or treatment is not ‘fix my kid’, it’s ‘help my family’. Once a child realizes this, they’ll find it easier to see their value in the family and that is immensely helpful! Joining us in conversation today is Denise Cipolla, Administrative Coordinator of Guidance and Counseling for Conroe ISD. She shares with us why mental health is such a focus for Conroe ISD and how mental health support is also a support mechanism for learning. Today, you’ll hear about the social-emotional learning playbook created by teachers, administrators, and counselors, and learn what trauma-informed teaching and care looks like. Denise reveals what she has witnessed happening when mental health is left unattended to, explores why some parents are emotional hostages of their children, and explains why stress and anxiety is the highest presenting problem in students of all ages, as well as where that stems from. Join us today to learn from Denise’s wealth of wisdom for parents looking to guide their children through managing their mental health. Thanks for tuning in! Key Points From This Episode:A parent’s role to advocate for their child, especially if there is a mental health concern. Three places people go when they are concerned about their child’s mental health: the church, the school, and the family physician.Today’s guest, Administrative Coordinator of Guidance and Counseling, Denise Cipolla. An introduction to Denise and her family, travels, and career leading up to this role.Why mental health is a focus for Conroe ISD as a support mechanism for learning.The social emotional learning playbook created by teachers, administrators, and counselors.Trauma informed teaching and trauma informed care.Trends in mental health, and how problems are pushing down younger and younger.Stress and anxiety, the highest presenting problem in students of all ages.How people tend to be more kind face-to-face than via social media. Where stress and anxiety stems from: pressure to be the very best and never to fail.The lasting impact of mental health issues that are left unattended to. How some parents are emotional hostages of their children.The message you send your children when you do everything for them.What Conroe ISD does to share resources within the county, including working with Mosaics.The ideal point of contact at the school if you are concerned about your child: the school counselor or a teacher if you are not yet comfortable with the counselor.How to navigate children leaving for mental health appointments. TChat, the telemental health that is delivered through Baylor School of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital.Choosing to withdraw a child to allow them to focus on their mental health.Why it is helpful for a child to know that seeking help is not ‘fix my kid’ but ‘help my family’.Unique circumstances under which accommodations can be made related to mental health. The power of a growth mindset rather than a fixed one.Why it is so important to ‘listen to hear’ rather than ‘listen to respond’. Denise’s story of hope: allow people to help you, because in doing so you are helping them.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mosaics of MercyDenise Cipolla on LinkedInConroe ISD 

Your job as a parent is to advocate for your child, particularly when there is a mental health concern because we want our children to know that, if they’re going through something emotionally, it impacts the whole family. Therapy or treatment is not ‘fix my kid’, it’s ‘help my family’. Once a child realizes this, they’ll find it easier to see their value in the family and that is immensely helpful! Joining us in conversation today is Denise Cipolla, Administrative Coordinator of Guidance and Counseling for Conroe ISD. She shares with us why mental health is such a focus for Conroe ISD and how mental health support is also a support mechanism for learning. Today, you’ll hear about the social-emotional learning playbook created by teachers, administrators, and counselors, and learn what trauma-informed teaching and care looks like. Denise reveals what she has witnessed happening when mental health is left unattended to, explores why some parents are emotional hostages of their children, and explains why stress and anxiety is the highest presenting problem in students of all ages, as well as where that stems from. Join us today to learn from Denise’s wealth of wisdom for parents looking to guide their children through managing their mental health. Thanks for tuning in!  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>A parent’s role to advocate for their child, especially if there is a mental health concern. </li><li>Three places people go when they are concerned about their child’s mental health: the church, the school, and the family physician.</li><li>Today’s guest, Administrative Coordinator of Guidance and Counseling, Denise Cipolla. </li><li>An introduction to Denise and her family, travels, and career leading up to this role.</li><li>Why mental health is a focus for Conroe ISD as a support mechanism for learning.</li><li>The social emotional learning playbook created by teachers, administrators, and counselors.</li><li>Trauma informed teaching and trauma informed care.</li><li>Trends in mental health, and how problems are pushing down younger and younger.</li><li>Stress and anxiety, the highest presenting problem in students of all ages.</li><li>How people tend to be more kind face-to-face than via social media. </li><li>Where stress and anxiety stems from: pressure to be the very best and never to fail.</li><li>The lasting impact of mental health issues that are left unattended to. </li><li>How some parents are emotional hostages of their children.</li><li>The message you send your children when you do everything for them.</li><li>What Conroe ISD does to share resources within the county, including working with Mosaics.</li><li>The ideal point of contact at the school if you are concerned about your child: the school counselor or a teacher if you are not yet comfortable with the counselor.</li><li>How to navigate children leaving for mental health appointments. </li><li>TChat, the telemental health that is delivered through Baylor School of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital.</li><li>Choosing to withdraw a child to allow them to focus on their mental health.</li><li>Why it is helpful for a child to know that seeking help is not ‘fix my kid’ but ‘help my family’.</li><li>Unique circumstances under which accommodations can be made related to mental health. </li><li>The power of a growth mindset rather than a fixed one.</li><li>Why it is so important to ‘listen to hear’ rather than ‘listen to respond’. </li><li>Denise’s story of hope: allow people to help you, because in doing so you are helping them.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-cipolla-3679bb16/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Denise Cipolla on LinkedIn </a><a href="https://www.conroeisd.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Conroe ISD</a>

Mental Health in the School System with Denise Cipolla

Amy Drury

There are many options for adults to address mental health issues, but what about children? Children also suffer from mental health issues but unlike adults, they do not have the cognitive and mental capacity to use the same techniques as adults. Therefore, a different approach is needed to address the mental health concerns of children. This is where child therapy can be immensely beneficial. In these sessions, the type of play and toys the children choose to play which gives the therapist a better understanding of underlying issues and emotional trauma. To tell us more about child therapy and the benefits is certified child play therapist Amy Drury. In today’s episode we find out what play therapy is and how it can be beneficial for kids, the different kinds of play therapy, the steps involved, what conversations to have with your kids about play therapy, and much more! Tune in to hear how your child can benefit from play therapy as well as important resources for parents with today’s inspirational guest!Key Points From This Episode:Brief rundown into Amy’s professional background.Reason for Amy seeking out her current role.General overview of what play therapy is.An outline of the steps involved with play therapy.Questions that the therapists asks kids to determine underlining issues.The different types of play therapies are explained: directive and non-directive.How does play therapy works for older children and if it is applicable.The role of the parents during play therapy sessions.Circumstances when parents would join therapy sessions.Recommended conversations that parents should have regarding play therapy.Tips for how parents can assess whether their child is a candidate for therapy.Some context for telling the difference between health and unhealthy play. Benefits of Incorporation of EMDR therapy with play therapy for kids.Definition of what ‘sand tray’ therapy and what it can help with.Resources for parents to find play therapists. Takeaway story of hope for listeners. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Association for Play TherapyMosaics of MercyAmy Drury on LinkedIn

There are many options for adults to address mental health issues, but what about children? Children also suffer from mental health issues but unlike adults, they do not have the cognitive and mental capacity to use the same techniques as adults. Therefore, a different approach is needed to address the mental health concerns of children. This is where child therapy can be immensely beneficial. In these sessions, the type of play and toys the children choose to play which gives the therapist a better understanding of underlying issues and emotional trauma. To tell us more about child therapy and the benefits is certified child play therapist Amy Drury. In today’s episode we find out what play therapy is and how it can be beneficial for kids, the different kinds of play therapy, the steps involved, what conversations to have with your kids about play therapy, and much more! Tune in to hear how your child can benefit from play therapy as well as important resources for parents with today’s inspirational guest! Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Brief rundown into Amy’s professional background.</li><li>Reason for Amy seeking out her current role.</li><li>General overview of what play therapy is.</li><li>An outline of the steps involved with play therapy.</li><li>Questions that the therapists asks kids to determine underlining issues.</li><li>The different types of play therapies are explained: directive and non-directive.</li><li>How does play therapy works for older children and if it is applicable.</li><li>The role of the parents during play therapy sessions.</li><li>Circumstances when parents would join therapy sessions.</li><li>Recommended conversations that parents should have regarding play therapy.</li><li>Tips for how parents can assess whether their child is a candidate for therapy.</li><li>Some context for telling the difference between health and unhealthy play. </li><li>Benefits of Incorporation of EMDR therapy with play therapy for kids.</li><li>Definition of what ‘sand tray’ therapy and what it can help with.</li><li>Resources for parents to find play therapists. </li><li>Takeaway story of hope for listeners. </li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.a4pt.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Association for Play Therapy</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-drury-90922933/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amy Drury on LinkedIn</a>

Play Therapy: Amy Drury, LPC, RPT

Kellie Cole

If you have ever spent time around children, you’ll know that they have a tendency to get cranky, test boundaries, and act uncooperatively. Today, we’re going to talk about when these behaviors should warrant a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Regardless of whether or not your child has this issue, today’s conversation contains a wealth of wisdom that is relevant to everyone who lives or works with children. Sharing this knowledge with us today is Kellie Cole, with Compassion Child and Family Counseling. Tune in to hear about what ODD is, how Kellie goes about observing a child’s behavior to determine whether they have ODD, and why it is so important to conduct a full evaluation before making a diagnosis. Kellie focuses largely on building the relationship between the parent and the child and empowering parents to grow out of shame and into the new ideas that she introduces them to. We discuss why consistency is so important, the value of teaching accountability, and how to learn to raise the child that you have instead of comparing them to others. Join us today to hear how Kellie uses her own stories to inspire others to build strong connections with their children and support them as they grow.Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s guest, Kellie Cole, with Compassion Child and Family Counseling.What Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is. Why it is so important to observe potential ODD symptoms for more than six months.Kellie’s observation that ODD is not often a stand-alone diagnosis, but rather it is a ‘dangler’.DMDD: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder.Multiple diagnoses that are common in children. Why it is so important to have a full evaluation to guide intervention.Why Kelly sees a child at least three times to confirm her observations.Children’s self-reporting abilities and the tools Kellie uses to interpret how they see their world.Why Kellie focuses on the relationship between parent and child. The power of choosing to learn to raise the child you have.The genetic propensity to ODD and other disorders.Kellie’s approach to treating ODD and why this focuses largely on the parents’ strategy.Why consistency is the golden nugget of parenting.Why follow-through is so important.ACT: Acknowledge feelings, Communicate limits, Target alternatives.The power of giving a child choices to teach accountability.Why it's okay that your children aren't always going to like you very much.Rebuilding self-esteem by acknowledging positive behavior.The deterioration that can happen around 11 or 12.Why it is so important for kids to understand consequences before junior high school.Being fully committed to the process as a parent.A reminder that there is no quick fix, and that the focus is on creating consistent limits and boundaries.Why you need to remember that you are the consumer when seeking treatment and therapy.Why parents are so pivotal for change and have to be a part of the process.The importance of checking in on the therapeutic process to see if it is working for the client.A story of hope from her practice: Kellie's own child with ODD, ADHD, and anxiety.How, when you feel more connected to your child, they accept your corrections more easily.Kellie’s hope that other families will learn from her story.Loving your kids through hard times.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Compassion Child and Family CounselingKellie Cole on LinkedInKellie Cole on Email

If you have ever spent time around children, you’ll know that they have a tendency to get cranky, test boundaries, and act uncooperatively. Today, we’re going to talk about when these behaviors should warrant a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Regardless of whether or not your child has this issue, today’s conversation contains a wealth of wisdom that is relevant to everyone who lives or works with children. Sharing this knowledge with us today is Kellie Cole, with Compassion Child and Family Counseling. Tune in to hear about what ODD is, how Kellie goes about observing a child’s behavior to determine whether they have ODD, and why it is so important to conduct a full evaluation before making a diagnosis. Kellie focuses largely on building the relationship between the parent and the child and empowering parents to grow out of shame and into the new ideas that she introduces them to. We discuss why consistency is so important, the value of teaching accountability, and how to learn to raise the child that you have instead of comparing them to others. Join us today to hear how Kellie uses her own stories to inspire others to build strong connections with their children and support them as they grow. Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>An introduction to today’s guest, Kellie Cole, with Compassion Child and Family Counseling.</li><li>What Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is. </li><li>Why it is so important to observe potential ODD symptoms for more than six months.</li><li>Kellie’s observation that ODD is not often a stand-alone diagnosis, but rather it is a ‘dangler’.</li><li>DMDD: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder.</li><li>Multiple diagnoses that are common in children. </li><li>Why it is so important to have a full evaluation to guide intervention.</li><li>Why Kelly sees a child at least three times to confirm her observations.</li><li>Children’s self-reporting abilities and the tools Kellie uses to interpret how they see their world.</li><li>Why Kellie focuses on the relationship between parent and child. </li><li>The power of choosing to learn to raise the child you have.</li><li>The genetic propensity to ODD and other disorders.</li><li>Kellie’s approach to treating ODD and why this focuses largely on the parents’ strategy.</li><li>Why consistency is the golden nugget of parenting.</li><li>Why follow-through is so important.</li><li>ACT: Acknowledge feelings, Communicate limits, Target alternatives.</li><li>The power of giving a child choices to teach accountability.</li><li>Why it's okay that your children aren't always going to like you very much.</li><li>Rebuilding self-esteem by acknowledging positive behavior.</li><li>The deterioration that can happen around 11 or 12.</li><li>Why it is so important for kids to understand consequences before junior high school.</li><li>Being fully committed to the process as a parent.</li><li>A reminder that there is no quick fix, and that the focus is on creating consistent limits and boundaries.</li><li>Why you need to remember that you are the consumer when seeking treatment and therapy.</li><li>Why parents are so pivotal for change and have to be a part of the process.</li><li>The importance of checking in on the therapeutic process to see if it is working for the client.</li><li>A story of hope from her practice: Kellie's own child with ODD, ADHD, and anxiety.</li><li>How, when you feel more connected to your child, they accept your corrections more easily.</li><li>Kellie’s hope that other families will learn from her story.</li><li>Loving your kids through hard times.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.ccfcounseling.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Compassion Child and Family Counseling </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-cole-m-ed-lpc-rpt-s-38b96934/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kellie Cole on LinkedIn </a><a href="mailto:kcole@ccfcounseling.com">Kellie Cole on Email</a>

Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Kellie Cole, LPC, RPT-S

Jennifer Morgan

Today’s conversation is all about navigating autism and mental health, and joining me to share her knowledge on the topic is Jennifer Morgan; Licensed Professional Counselor, Animal Assisted Counselor, Advanced Certified Autism Specialist, and owner of Morgan’s Helping Hands LLC. Jennifer is post-modern trained, and her approach is one that combines narrative, collaborative, and cognitive-behavioral forms of therapy. In this episode, we discuss examples of what her therapy sessions can look like, some of the key indicators of ASD, how ASD generally presents itself differently in men and women, and the ways in which sensory processing difficulties can play out as mental health disorders. Jennifer and her animal sidekick, Jettabug, work with their client's strengths in order to empower them and assist them in finding solutions to the challenges that they are facing. Whether you are on the spectrum or not, we hope this episode makes you feel empowered too! Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to Jennifer and Jettabug, the animal assistant that works alongside her.Jennifer shares some of the key signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).Why Jennifer is opposed to categorizing people with ASD as ‘high functioning’ or ‘low functioning.’The experience which sparked Jennifer’s interest in sensory processing.Examples of how ASD looks different in women and in men.Pathways that can and cannot be used to get an ASD diagnosis.Relief that many people feel when they are diagnosed with ASD later in life.Valuable advice to parents of children with ASD who appear to be acting defiantly.Approaches to dealing with a child with ASD who is having a meltdown.The major difference between ASD and Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD).How sensory processing issues are linked to some of the other mental health disorders that often accompany ASD.Why Jennifer combines narrative, collaborative and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches in her social skills sessions with children with ASD.Examples of themes that Jennifer creates for her sessions, and the value of these.Jennifer’s main goal as a therapist for children with ASD.How Jennifer works with her patients’ strengths. Recommendations for assisting people with ASD who are wanting to hurt themselves.An overview of Jennifer’s new GROWTH Program.Jennifer’s message of hope.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Morgan’s Helping HandsMorgan’s Helping Hands LLC on FacebookJettabug Therapy on InstagramSharpen RecoverySharpen Recovery on FacebookSharpen Recovery on InstagramMosaics of Mercy

Today’s conversation is all about navigating autism and mental health, and joining me to share her knowledge on the topic is Jennifer Morgan; Licensed Professional Counselor, Animal Assisted Counselor, Advanced Certified Autism Specialist, and owner of Morgan’s Helping Hands LLC. Jennifer is post-modern trained, and her approach is one that combines narrative, collaborative, and cognitive-behavioral forms of therapy. In this episode, we discuss examples of what her therapy sessions can look like, some of the key indicators of ASD, how ASD generally presents itself differently in men and women, and the ways in which sensory processing difficulties can play out as mental health disorders. Jennifer and her animal sidekick, Jettabug, work with their client's strengths in order to empower them and assist them in finding solutions to the challenges that they are facing. Whether you are on the spectrum or not, we hope this episode makes you feel empowered too!  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>An introduction to Jennifer and Jettabug, the animal assistant that works alongside her.</li><li>Jennifer shares some of the key signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).</li><li>Why Jennifer is opposed to categorizing people with ASD as ‘high functioning’ or ‘low functioning.’</li><li>The experience which sparked Jennifer’s interest in sensory processing.</li><li>Examples of how ASD looks different in women and in men.</li><li>Pathways that can and cannot be used to get an ASD diagnosis.</li><li>Relief that many people feel when they are diagnosed with ASD later in life.</li><li>Valuable advice to parents of children with ASD who appear to be acting defiantly.</li><li>Approaches to dealing with a child with ASD who is having a meltdown.</li><li>The major difference between ASD and Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD).</li><li>How sensory processing issues are linked to some of the other mental health disorders that often accompany ASD.</li><li>Why Jennifer combines narrative, collaborative and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches in her social skills sessions with children with ASD.</li><li>Examples of themes that Jennifer creates for her sessions, and the value of these.</li><li>Jennifer’s main goal as a therapist for children with ASD.</li><li>How Jennifer works with her patients’ strengths. </li><li>Recommendations for assisting people with ASD who are wanting to hurt themselves.</li><li>An overview of Jennifer’s new GROWTH Program.</li><li>Jennifer’s message of hope.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://morganshelpinghands.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morgan’s Helping Hands</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.morganLPC/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morgan’s Helping Hands LLC on Facebook</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jettabugtherapy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jettabug Therapy on Instagram</a><a href="https://sharpenrecovery.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpen Recovery</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharpenrecovery/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpen Recovery on Facebook</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sharpenrecovery" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpen Recovery on Instagram</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a>

Addressing Autism: Jennifer Morgan, LPC, ACAS, AAC

Patrick Lukingbeal

According to a NAMI 2020 study, 73% of students reported to have had a mental health crisis while at college. Today, we are joined by the Executive Director of Integrated Enrollment Services at the University of Houston, to discuss the pressing topic of mental health on college campuses. Dr. Patrick Lukingbeal fills us in on the positive generational changes he’s observed, with the normalization of mental health conversations among young people. The stigma around mental health issues is steadily disintegrating and more and more people are able to recognize and seek support for their struggles. We discuss the ways in which the pandemic has affected the prevalence of mental health issues among college students, and the astounding support systems in place in higher education facilities. As parents, it can be challenging sending your child off to college, especially if they have a history of mental health issues, and in this episode, we cover the ways in which you can continue to support your child on their journey! More than that, we delve into the importance of normalizing the need for students to take a break and how to help them reintegrate into their learning environment while they’re in recovery. Furthermore, you’re bound to hear some profound insights into Patrick’s Ph.D. topic: diversity and mental health! For all of this and so much more, tune in with us today! Key Points From This Episode:Patrick Lukingbeal’s professional background and why he’s so passionate about educating others about mental health.The mental health concerns and support efforts on college campuses pre- and post-Covid.What college campuses are doing to address the prevalence of suicide.The positive and negative effects of parents legally not having access to students’ records.How to navigate parents’ lack of access and come to an agreement ahead of time.What’s contributing to the increase of involvement in mental health programs on campuses.How social media is creating awareness and normalizing mental health conversations.The benefits of the prevalence of resources available to young adults about mental health.Patrick’s findings when doing his Ph.D. on diversity and mental health correlations.The risk factors that might prevent someone from seeking help.What higher education facilities are doing right in terms of inclusivity.Why the need for students to take time off for their mental health should be normalized.The importance of providing students with a roadmap back into their course.The most common reason people don’t seek help.The positive effects of seeking support and treatment.The support systems available on campuses for students in recovery.What parents can do to support their child in college regarding mental health.The true role of college counseling centers: brief intervention.What gives Patrick hope about the new generation, in terms of resilience and normalizing mental health conversations.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Patrick Lukingbeal on LinkedInNAMI: National Alliance on Mental IllnessUH WellnessCougars in RecoveryJohn Shiflet on LinkedInMosaics of Mercy

According to a NAMI 2020 study, 73% of students reported to have had a mental health crisis while at college. Today, we are joined by the Executive Director of Integrated Enrollment Services at the University of Houston, to discuss the pressing topic of mental health on college campuses. Dr. Patrick Lukingbeal fills us in on the positive generational changes he’s observed, with the normalization of mental health conversations among young people. The stigma around mental health issues is steadily disintegrating and more and more people are able to recognize and seek support for their struggles. We discuss the ways in which the pandemic has affected the prevalence of mental health issues among college students, and the astounding support systems in place in higher education facilities. As parents, it can be challenging sending your child off to college, especially if they have a history of mental health issues, and in this episode, we cover the ways in which you can continue to support your child on their journey! More than that, we delve into the importance of normalizing the need for students to take a break and how to help them reintegrate into their learning environment while they’re in recovery. Furthermore, you’re bound to hear some profound insights into Patrick’s Ph.D. topic: diversity and mental health! For all of this and so much more, tune in with us today!  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Patrick Lukingbeal’s professional background and why he’s so passionate about educating others about mental health.</li><li>The mental health concerns and support efforts on college campuses pre- and post-Covid.</li><li>What college campuses are doing to address the prevalence of suicide.</li><li>The positive and negative effects of parents legally not having access to students’ records.</li><li>How to navigate parents’ lack of access and come to an agreement ahead of time.</li><li>What’s contributing to the increase of involvement in mental health programs on campuses.</li><li>How social media is creating awareness and normalizing mental health conversations.</li><li>The benefits of the prevalence of resources available to young adults about mental health.</li><li>Patrick’s findings when doing his Ph.D. on diversity and mental health correlations.</li><li>The risk factors that might prevent someone from seeking help.</li><li>What higher education facilities are doing right in terms of inclusivity.</li><li>Why the need for students to take time off for their mental health should be normalized.</li><li>The importance of providing students with a roadmap back into their course.</li><li>The most common reason people don’t seek help.</li><li>The positive effects of seeking support and treatment.</li><li>The support systems available on campuses for students in recovery.</li><li>What parents can do to support their child in college regarding mental health.</li><li>The true role of college counseling centers: brief intervention.</li><li>What gives Patrick hope about the new generation, in terms of resilience and normalizing mental health conversations.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-patrick-lukingbeal-86a7161b/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dr. Patrick Lukingbeal on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://nami.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness</a><a href="https://uh.edu/wellness/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">UH Wellness</a><a href="https://www.uh.edu/cir/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cougars in Recovery</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-shiflet-msw-13212ab0/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Shiflet on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a>

College Mental Health: Dr. Patrick Lukingbeal

Kim Livesay

Nick Long

In the State of Texas, there is still no licensure for sober living homes and, as a result, there are no set guidelines for how they should be run. This makes it extra important, when choosing a sober living home, to do the relevant research to ensure that it’s the right program for you. Joining us today to talk about all things sober living, are two inspiring individuals who have not only come through their own personal recovery journeys, but have dedicated their lives to helping others do the same. Kim Livesay, LCDC is a program counselor and Business Development Specialist at La Hacienda, and the owner of the women’s sober living home, Legacy House. Nick Long, similarly, is the founder and Executive Director of Sharpen Recovery, a Christ-centered non-profit providing sober living housing for men and women in need of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction in Houston. In this episode, we find out what questions to ask when considering a sober living home, in terms of program and staff structures, costs, approaches to and treatment of relapse, and so much more! When it comes to the question of the length of stay in their respective sober living homes, Nick explains how demographics affect the length of stay and Kim fills us in on what she finds to be the most effective. We find out how Sharpen Recovery navigates the fine balance of respecting the beliefs of individuals with the Christ-centered culture of the organization, and why Legacy House chooses to keep MAT medication off the premises. To close, our guests share some great insights into the challenges families of recovery face, and how families can best support their loved one through their recovery journey. Tune in for this insightful discussion on the wonderful resources available and remember, as long as there’s breath, there’s hope! Key Points From This Episode:Kim Livesay’s personal recovery journey and professional background.The uncanny similarities between Nick Long and Kim Livesay’s recovery and career journeys.What led Nick to choose recovery.Nick walks us through the Sharpen Recovery sober living home structure and progress.What sober living is, the purpose it serves, and the support it provides.The efficacy of sober living housing in preventing relapse after treatment.Factors affecting the length of stay in sober living homes and what length is most effective.Kim’s sober living, Legacy House’s approach to treatment programming.Details about Sharpen Recovery’s treatment program.How Sharpen Recovery gently invites individuals to consider Christ, without expectations. The respective staff structures at Legacy House and Sharpen Recovery.The difference between Sober Living and Oxford Houses.What to take into account when considering the cost of sober living.The challenge for families in recovery and the role of family in the sober living journey.What people should look for when choosing a sober living home.Kim and Nick each share their remarkable stories of hope!Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kim Livesay, LCDC on LinkedInLa Hacienda Treatment CenterLegacy HouseKim Livesay Phone Number — 9139635210Kim Livesay EmailNick Long on LinkedInSharpen RecoverySharpen Recovery on FacebookSharpen Recovery on InstagramMosaics of Mercy

In the State of Texas, there is still no licensure for sober living homes and, as a result, there are no set guidelines for how they should be run. This makes it extra important, when choosing a sober living home, to do the relevant research to ensure that it’s the right program for you. Joining us today to talk about all things sober living, are two inspiring individuals who have not only come through their own personal recovery journeys, but have dedicated their lives to helping others do the same. Kim Livesay, LCDC is a program counselor and Business Development Specialist at La Hacienda, and the owner of the women’s sober living home, Legacy House. Nick Long, similarly, is the founder and Executive Director of Sharpen Recovery, a Christ-centered non-profit providing sober living housing for men and women in need of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction in Houston. In this episode, we find out what questions to ask when considering a sober living home, in terms of program and staff structures, costs, approaches to and treatment of relapse, and so much more! When it comes to the question of the length of stay in their respective sober living homes, Nick explains how demographics affect the length of stay and Kim fills us in on what she finds to be the most effective. We find out how Sharpen Recovery navigates the fine balance of respecting the beliefs of individuals with the Christ-centered culture of the organization, and why Legacy House chooses to keep MAT medication off the premises. To close, our guests share some great insights into the challenges families of recovery face, and how families can best support their loved one through their recovery journey. Tune in for this insightful discussion on the wonderful resources available and remember, as long as there’s breath, there’s hope!  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Kim Livesay’s personal recovery journey and professional background.</li><li>The uncanny similarities between Nick Long and Kim Livesay’s recovery and career journeys.</li><li>What led Nick to choose recovery.</li><li>Nick walks us through the Sharpen Recovery sober living home structure and progress.</li><li>What sober living is, the purpose it serves, and the support it provides.</li><li>The efficacy of sober living housing in preventing relapse after treatment.</li><li>Factors affecting the length of stay in sober living homes and what length is most effective.</li><li>Kim’s sober living, Legacy House’s approach to treatment programming.</li><li>Details about Sharpen Recovery’s treatment program.</li><li>How Sharpen Recovery gently invites individuals to consider Christ, without expectations. </li><li>The respective staff structures at Legacy House and Sharpen Recovery.</li><li>The difference between Sober Living and Oxford Houses.</li><li>What to take into account when considering the cost of sober living.</li><li>The challenge for families in recovery and the role of family in the sober living journey.</li><li>What people should look for when choosing a sober living home.</li><li>Kim and Nick each share their remarkable stories of hope!</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-livesay-lcdc-5a525a186/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kim Livesay, LCDC on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://www.lahacienda.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">La Hacienda Treatment Center</a><a href="https://www.legacyhousetx.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Legacy House</a>Kim Livesay Phone Number — 9139635210<a href="mailto:legacyhousetx@yahoo.com">Kim Livesay Email</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-long-0ba64b185/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nick Long on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://sharpenrecovery.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpen Recovery</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharpenrecovery/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpen Recovery on Facebook</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sharpenrecovery" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpen Recovery on Instagram</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a>

Sober Living: Kim Livesay, LCDC and Nick Long

Tara Hutton

When you are fostering, and perhaps even adopting a child, it’s important to be aware of how previous life experiences and trauma could shape their behavior and interactions. Today on the show we’re delighted to welcome Tara Hutton, host of the Mama’s Well podcast, and dear friend of the show. Tara describes her family as consisting of two rounds of parenting, the first being her three boys, who are currently in their late teens and early twenties, and the second being her two young adopted girls. In my conversation with Tara, we discuss her journey with mental health and how being a first-time parent prompted her initial experiences with therapy when she was feeling chronically overwhelmed. Tara shares how she felt called to foster after a family trip to Haiti and explains how she came to adopt her two daughters. She describes the initial fear she felt as a foster and adoptive parent, that she wouldn’t love someone else’s kids as much as she did her own, and how that turned out to not be true at all. We also discuss how Tara’s children have helped her gain awareness of her own traumas and learn how to reparent herself, along with the tremendously positive impact that has had on her relationship with her daughters. We end off today’s show with Tara’s advice for parents taking in a child with trauma, along with her unique story of hope. We hope you’ll join us for this special conversation on reparenting, trauma, adopting, and more.Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s guest Tara Hutton, host of the podcast Mama’s Well.Learn about Tara’s family: her husband Kyle, and her five children.Tara shares what prompted the start of her mental health journey.How Tara found herself chronically overwhelmed as a first-time parent.Tara’s decision to pay for therapy a year in advance to hold herself accountable and commit to the process.How Tara came to foster and then adopt her two daughters.What Tara learned from the adoption process and having children who had significant trauma in her care.Some of the trauma training that Tara went through as a parent who was adopting.How small traumas can have a substantial cumulative impact on someone.The way that trauma is present in the body and some of the tools that have helped Tara address that.How Tara recognized her inability to regulate her emotions thanks to her daughters.What Tara learned about herself from her reaction to certain types of behavior in her children.How compassion for herself as a child has helped Tara be more compassionate with her daughters.The important distinction between controlling and influencing your child’s behavior.The troubling lack of resources available to the most vulnerable children in America.How Tara’s children have helped her recognize the gaps in her life and reparent herself.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mama’s WellMama’s Well PodcastMama’s Well on InstagramMama’s Well on FacebookThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of TraumaThe Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When The World Overwhelms ThemYoga With AdrieneMosaics of Mercy

When you are fostering, and perhaps even adopting a child, it’s important to be aware of how previous life experiences and trauma could shape their behavior and interactions. Today on the show we’re delighted to welcome Tara Hutton, host of the Mama’s Well podcast, and dear friend of the show. Tara describes her family as consisting of two rounds of parenting, the first being her three boys, who are currently in their late teens and early twenties, and the second being her two young adopted girls. In my conversation with Tara, we discuss her journey with mental health and how being a first-time parent prompted her initial experiences with therapy when she was feeling chronically overwhelmed. Tara shares how she felt called to foster after a family trip to Haiti and explains how she came to adopt her two daughters. She describes the initial fear she felt as a foster and adoptive parent, that she wouldn’t love someone else’s kids as much as she did her own, and how that turned out to not be true at all. We also discuss how Tara’s children have helped her gain awareness of her own traumas and learn how to reparent herself, along with the tremendously positive impact that has had on her relationship with her daughters. We end off today’s show with Tara’s advice for parents taking in a child with trauma, along with her unique story of hope. We hope you’ll join us for this special conversation on reparenting, trauma, adopting, and more. Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>An introduction to today’s guest Tara Hutton, host of the podcast Mama’s Well.</li><li>Learn about Tara’s family: her husband Kyle, and her five children.</li><li>Tara shares what prompted the start of her mental health journey.</li><li>How Tara found herself chronically overwhelmed as a first-time parent.</li><li>Tara’s decision to pay for therapy a year in advance to hold herself accountable and commit to the process.</li><li>How Tara came to foster and then adopt her two daughters.</li><li>What Tara learned from the adoption process and having children who had significant trauma in her care.</li><li>Some of the trauma training that Tara went through as a parent who was adopting.</li><li>How small traumas can have a substantial cumulative impact on someone.</li><li>The way that trauma is present in the body and some of the tools that have helped Tara address that.</li><li>How Tara recognized her inability to regulate her emotions thanks to her daughters.</li><li>What Tara learned about herself from her reaction to certain types of behavior in her children.</li><li>How compassion for herself as a child has helped Tara be more compassionate with her daughters.</li><li>The important distinction between controlling and influencing your child’s behavior.</li><li>The troubling lack of resources available to the most vulnerable children in America.</li><li>How Tara’s children have helped her recognize the gaps in her life and reparent herself.</li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://mamaswell.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mama’s Well</a><a href="https://mamaswell.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mama’s Well Podcast</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mamas.well/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mama’s Well on Instagram</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/mamaswelll" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mama’s Well on Facebook</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Highly-Sensitive-Child-Children-Overwhelms/dp/0767908724/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+sensitive+child+book&amp;qid=1643790305&amp;sprefix=the+sensitive+child%252Caps%252C317&amp;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When The World Overwhelms Them</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yoga With Adriene</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a>

Fostering, Adopting, and Reparenting Ourselves: Tara Hutton

Today on the show we speak to Constable Philip Cash about how the Montgomery County mental health constables are serving their community through a dedicated program designed to get mental health consumers the help they need.  We hear about Constable Cash’s journey in law enforcement and what led to his passion for creating a program to address mental health in our community. Constable Cash speaks about the typical process the mental health constables follow to assist mental health consumers in moments of crisis. We also address how Montgomery County is tackling the drug crisis, the need for more mental health infrastructure in Texas, and the fundamental role of faith and family in assisting in the recovery of loved ones with mental illnesses.Key Points From This Episode:Constable Cash’s career in law enforcement and how he got involved in mental health.The role of the Montgomery County mental health constables and how they are helping those in crisis.The effects of COVID on the mental health of Americans.How the crisis intervention team has downgraded police uniforms to be less intimidating.The best time to call a mental health constable if a loved one is struggling.How the mental health constables are trained to handle a range of situations.When a person should call 911 versus the crisis intervention team.The standard operating procedure around juvenile struggles and how the constables help.Similarities in the behavior between mental health consumers and drug users.The effects of dementia on older folks and whether the constables can provide assistance.How the constables deal with cases: the process of evaluation and transportation to a facility.The appreciation and feedback the constables get from the patients and community.Effects of natural disasters on mental health consumers and the influx of calls the constables get.The lack of funding for mental health infrastructure even though progress is being made.Issuing mental health warrants and what this side of the process looks like.The rise of drug use and measures being taken in Montgomery County to deal with this.Details in the drug crisis: counterfeit pills and opioid use leading to street drug use.A message of hope from Constable Cash about the role of faith and family.How to get hold of the Montgomery County mental health constables.Tweetables:“Our primary mission is to help those in crisis.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:03:54]“That’s an issue we have had in the past where a person is disobeying a police officer and they end up in jail where it could have been something handled a little different where they ended up in a mental health facility.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:17:36]“Two or three times since I have been constable, these people have come to and hugged the officers and thanked them for saving their lives.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:24:32]“There’s a lot of very professional people in our community that care about the mental health of our citizens and I am proud to be a part of that.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:30:05]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Constable Philip Cash on LinkedInTri-County Behavioral HealthcareAmerican Rescue PlanHIDTA

Today on the show we speak to Constable Philip Cash about how the Montgomery County mental health constables are serving their community through a dedicated program designed to get mental health consumers the help they need.  We hear about Constable Cash’s journey in law enforcement and what led to his passion for creating a program to address mental health in our community. Constable Cash speaks about the typical process the mental health constables follow to assist mental health consumers in moments of crisis. We also address how Montgomery County is tackling the drug crisis, the need for more mental health infrastructure in Texas, and the fundamental role of faith and family in assisting in the recovery of loved ones with mental illnesses. Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Constable Cash’s career in law enforcement and how he got involved in mental health.</li><li>The role of the Montgomery County mental health constables and how they are helping those in crisis.</li><li>The effects of COVID on the mental health of Americans.</li><li>How the crisis intervention team has downgraded police uniforms to be less intimidating.</li><li>The best time to call a mental health constable if a loved one is struggling.</li><li>How the mental health constables are trained to handle a range of situations.</li><li>When a person should call 911 versus the crisis intervention team.</li><li>The standard operating procedure around juvenile struggles and how the constables help.</li><li>Similarities in the behavior between mental health consumers and drug users.</li><li>The effects of dementia on older folks and whether the constables can provide assistance.</li><li>How the constables deal with cases: the process of evaluation and transportation to a facility.</li><li>The appreciation and feedback the constables get from the patients and community.</li><li>Effects of natural disasters on mental health consumers and the influx of calls the constables get.</li><li>The lack of funding for mental health infrastructure even though progress is being made.</li><li>Issuing mental health warrants and what this side of the process looks like.</li><li>The rise of drug use and measures being taken in Montgomery County to deal with this.</li><li>Details in the drug crisis: counterfeit pills and opioid use leading to street drug use.</li><li>A message of hope from Constable Cash about the role of faith and family.</li><li>How to get hold of the Montgomery County mental health constables.</li></ul> Tweetables:“Our primary mission is to help those in crisis.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:03:54]“That’s an issue we have had in the past where a person is disobeying a police officer and they end up in jail where it could have been something handled a little different where they ended up in a mental health facility.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:17:36]“Two or three times since I have been constable, these people have come to and hugged the officers and thanked them for saving their lives.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:24:32]“There’s a lot of very professional people in our community that care about the mental health of our citizens and I am proud to be a part of that.” — Constable Philip Cash [0:30:05] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-cash-8740ab37/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Constable Philip Cash on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://tcbhc.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare</a><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/american-rescue-plan/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">American Rescue Plan</a><a href="https://www.dea.gov/operations/hidta" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HIDTA</a>

Montgomery County Mental Health Constables: Constable Philip Cash

Hope Pieced Together is a show that gets real about mental health struggles and how to overcome them. You will hear personal stories, practical tools, and professional insight for the journey toward mental well-being. Whether you listen for you, a loved one, or for how to help in your community, it will be evident that hope is definitely alive! Each month, the host, Sherry Burkhard, RN, includes parts of her own professional and personal story, as well as insight gained at the non-profit organization, Mosaics of Mercy.

I love the combination of educational resources (I’ve learned about so many things available right in my own neighborhood!) and personal stories (it’s made me so much more courageous and willing to be vulnerable about my own stories)! 

This podcast is a fantastic thing for me to use for my own growth AND something I can easily send to my counseling clients to let them know 1. They aren’t alone in their struggle and 2. We have people in our area who specialize in that very thing! (Whatever that struggle might be).

Incredibly Helpful Resources and Hope!

Hope Pieced Together

Kate Funk

The road to recovery is never an easy one, no matter what the issue is. Our guest today is Kate Funk and she talks about her own recovery and her work helping others with theirs. Kate developed a serious eating disorder at a very young age and it took many years for her to properly address and overcome the harmful effects of the roots of the problem. She now works at Monte Nido and Affiliates, helping teens on their path to a healthier self as well as in her own private practice of rehab. Kate opens up about what her disorder looked like and how it changed and evaded her grasp. We hear about chasing a never-achievable body weight, the influence of her mother's own eating issues on her as a young girl, important steps in the process and even some of the positive things that have come with having these problems in her life. Kate shares the important role her friends played in the journey and how tiny moments and messages can make all the difference in hanging on. We also discuss her treatment and how she came around to it after a typical aversion. For a wonderfully honest and inspiring conversation with someone fully committed to helping people through what she has experienced herself, be sure to join us today!Key Points From This Episode:More about Monte Nido, who it serves and its aims.Kate's private practice working with eating disorders, addiction, and trauma. Our guest's personal reasons for getting into counseling and working with eating disorders.Chasing a bodyweight and the unquenchable desire to go lower.  The recovery journey; scales, reaching out and journalling. The gifts that have come along with an eating disorder and how Kate appreciates her journey. Kate's friends and the part they played in her recovery through steadfastness. The small messages that can make such a difference to someone who is struggling. How Kate was forced into treatment initially and how it took hold from there.  The different stages of recovery; making it through the levels over time. Finding ways to be more kind to oneself and taking your own emotional temperature. The other areas that Kate's low sense of self-worth made itself apparent.  Challenges of working with people with similar issues and problems.Kate's experiences coaching at Girls on the Run!Some thoughts from our guest to anyone out there struggling.A favorite story from Kate's journey around a big mirror and her fingerprint.Tweetables:“I developed an eating disorder at a really young age, I would say I was probably 7 or 8 years old.” — Kate Funk [0:04:30]“I am a very sensitive person, so if I'm holding something back that is a red flag that there is something going on.” — Kate Funk [0:10:45]“I probably am a little bit more tough love than a therapist that hasn't been there.” — Kate Funk [0:32:15]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mosaics of MercyKate Funk Monte Nido and AffiliatesGirls on the Run

The road to recovery is never an easy one, no matter what the issue is. Our guest today is Kate Funk and she talks about her own recovery and her work helping others with theirs. Kate developed a serious eating disorder at a very young age and it took many years for her to properly address and overcome the harmful effects of the roots of the problem. She now works at Monte Nido and Affiliates, helping teens on their path to a healthier self as well as in her own private practice of rehab. Kate opens up about what her disorder looked like and how it changed and evaded her grasp. We hear about chasing a never-achievable body weight, the influence of her mother's own eating issues on her as a young girl, important steps in the process and even some of the positive things that have come with having these problems in her life. Kate shares the important role her friends played in the journey and how tiny moments and messages can make all the difference in hanging on. We also discuss her treatment and how she came around to it after a typical aversion. For a wonderfully honest and inspiring conversation with someone fully committed to helping people through what she has experienced herself, be sure to join us today! Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>More about Monte Nido, who it serves and its aims.</li><li>Kate's private practice working with eating disorders, addiction, and trauma. </li><li>Our guest's personal reasons for getting into counseling and working with eating disorders.</li><li>Chasing a bodyweight and the unquenchable desire to go lower.  </li><li>The recovery journey; scales, reaching out and journalling. </li><li>The gifts that have come along with an eating disorder and how Kate appreciates her journey. </li><li>Kate's friends and the part they played in her recovery through steadfastness. </li><li>The small messages that can make such a difference to someone who is struggling. </li><li>How Kate was forced into treatment initially and how it took hold from there.  </li><li>The different stages of recovery; making it through the levels over time. </li><li>Finding ways to be more kind to oneself and taking your own emotional temperature. </li><li>The other areas that Kate's low sense of self-worth made itself apparent.  </li><li>Challenges of working with people with similar issues and problems.</li><li>Kate's experiences coaching at Girls on the Run!</li><li>Some thoughts from our guest to anyone out there struggling.</li><li>A favorite story from Kate's journey around a big mirror and her fingerprint.</li></ul> Tweetables:“I developed an eating disorder at a really young age, I would say I was probably 7 or 8 years old.” — Kate Funk [0:04:30]“I am a very sensitive person, so if I'm holding something back that is a red flag that there is something going on.” — Kate Funk [0:10:45]“I probably am a little bit more tough love than a therapist that hasn't been there.” — Kate Funk [0:32:15] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a><a href="http://www.katefunkmft.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kate Funk</a> <a href="https://www.montenido.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monte Nido and Affiliates</a><a href="https://www.girlsontherun.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Girls on the Run</a>

Personal Story, Eating Disorder Recovery: Kate Funk, LMFT

Deena Watson

Our guest on the show for today is Deena Watson and she joins us to share her experiences with psychiatric facilities as the mother of a child who struggles with chronic mental health issues. When Deena’s son Brian was in between his seventh and eighth school year he experienced his first manic incident. In our conversation, Deena recounts the story to listeners, telling us about how Brain’s behavior was assessed by a series of medical professionals before he was finally admitted to a psychiatric facility. Deena shares her own experiences through the whole process too, which went from an initial feeling of fear and powerlessness to a subsequent period of learning. The facilities and people that Deena interacted with along this journey with her son’s condition gave her experiences and taught her lessons that shifted her entire perspective on what a normal life should look like. Today we hear about the place of hope that Deena finds herself in several years down the road, and the story she tells shines a new light on the positive perspectives and gratitude that people who endure such extreme trials are blessed to experience.Key Points From This Episode:How Deena entered the mental health world by discovering her son Brian’s illness.What happened when Brian had his first episode and set up several shrines in the house.Brian’s diagnosis that suggested his issues were not physical but psychological.Limiting factors to whether a patient will get care in a psychiatric ward: space availability.Intake procedures at psychiatric hospitals: advanced security, precautions, and screening.What happened on the day Brian was admitted: interviews and a video conference diagnosis.Deena’s emotions after leaving the hospital: guilt, fear, and powerlessness.Brain’s behavior, experiences, and journey back to reality in his first week in the ward.Feelings of reassurance Deena felt after visiting Brian and seeing he was peaceful.Benchmarks for patient release: can patients self-administer medication?Critiques of the outpatient program: it didn’t show Brian how to handle his chronic illness.Support Deena found at her therapy group after realizing many peers had mental issues.Challenges faced around returning to school: peer, teacher, and staff responses.How the family prepared Brian to be at school again by teaching him safe words, etc.Tweetables:“We visited with the family therapist. I don’t even know if it was for 15 or 20 minutes, and he took us outside and he said, ‘I need you to go immediately to a psychiatric hospital. Your son needs to be hospitalized today.” — Deena Watson [0:04:03]“I walked out of the facility and fell to the ground and just sobbed.” — Deena Watson [0:13:40]“I’m not scared to admit him to a hospital anymore. I think its the right thing to do when I see those signs going up that he is entering a manic episode.” — Deena Watson [0:39:09]“I don’t wish this on anybody, but in the middle of it, roses are beautiful but they have thorns. We still like roses. That’s the attitude that we have chosen to adopt.” — Deena Watson [0:45:46]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mosaics of Mercy — https://mosaicsofmercy.com/Hope Pieced Together — https://mosaicsofmercy.com/hope-pieced-together/Sherry Burkhard — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-burkhard-9a128b16a/

Our guest on the show for today is Deena Watson and she joins us to share her experiences with psychiatric facilities as the mother of a child who struggles with chronic mental health issues. When Deena’s son Brian was in between his seventh and eighth school year he experienced his first manic incident. In our conversation, Deena recounts the story to listeners, telling us about how Brain’s behavior was assessed by a series of medical professionals before he was finally admitted to a psychiatric facility. Deena shares her own experiences through the whole process too, which went from an initial feeling of fear and powerlessness to a subsequent period of learning.  The facilities and people that Deena interacted with along this journey with her son’s condition gave her experiences and taught her lessons that shifted her entire perspective on what a normal life should look like. Today we hear about the place of hope that Deena finds herself in several years down the road, and the story she tells shines a new light on the positive perspectives and gratitude that people who endure such extreme trials are blessed to experience. Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>How Deena entered the mental health world by discovering her son Brian’s illness.</li><li>What happened when Brian had his first episode and set up several shrines in the house.</li><li>Brian’s diagnosis that suggested his issues were not physical but psychological.</li><li>Limiting factors to whether a patient will get care in a psychiatric ward: space availability.</li><li>Intake procedures at psychiatric hospitals: advanced security, precautions, and screening.</li><li>What happened on the day Brian was admitted: interviews and a video conference diagnosis.</li><li>Deena’s emotions after leaving the hospital: guilt, fear, and powerlessness.</li><li>Brain’s behavior, experiences, and journey back to reality in his first week in the ward.</li><li>Feelings of reassurance Deena felt after visiting Brian and seeing he was peaceful.</li><li>Benchmarks for patient release: can patients self-administer medication?</li><li>Critiques of the outpatient program: it didn’t show Brian how to handle his chronic illness.</li><li>Support Deena found at her therapy group after realizing many peers had mental issues.</li><li>Challenges faced around returning to school: peer, teacher, and staff responses.</li><li>How the family prepared Brian to be at school again by teaching him safe words, etc.</li></ul> Tweetables:“We visited with the family therapist. I don’t even know if it was for 15 or 20 minutes, and he took us outside and he said, ‘I need you to go immediately to a psychiatric hospital. Your son needs to be hospitalized today.” — Deena Watson [0:04:03]“I walked out of the facility and fell to the ground and just sobbed.” — Deena Watson [0:13:40]“I’m not scared to admit him to a hospital anymore. I think its the right thing to do when I see those signs going up that he is entering a manic episode.” — Deena Watson [0:39:09]“I don’t wish this on anybody, but in the middle of it, roses are beautiful but they have thorns. We still like roses. That’s the attitude that we have chosen to adopt.” — Deena Watson [0:45:46] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mosaics of Mercy — <a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mosaicsofmercy.com/</a>Hope Pieced Together — <a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/hope-pieced-together/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mosaicsofmercy.com/hope-pieced-together/</a>Sherry Burkhard — <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-burkhard-9a128b16a/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-burkhard-9a128b16a/</a>

Psychiatric Hospitals: A Mother’s Perspective with Deena Watson

On today’s show, we have Carolyn Robistow, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. Carolyn specializes specifically in helping those who struggle with stress and anxiety, perfection, infertility, ADHD and focus. Inside this episode, we talk about the importance of prioritization in our lives, Carlyon expands on a new brain-based therapy called Brain Spotting, as well as a play therapy method called Sandtray Therapy. We also talk about the importance that self-compassion plays within our lives and establishing our worthiness. Carolyn shares with us her approach to therapy sessions, where she foresees her practice heading with the implementation of video sessions, and her passion for mentoring interns not only through the therapy aspect of private practice but also how to run a business. We end the episode today with a heartfelt, personal story of hope from Carolyn. So stay tuned to hear it all on Hope Pieced Together.Key Points From This Episode:Carolyn shares on “The Should’s,” how we prioritize things matters.The importance of sorting through your top tire values. Brain Spotting: What this is and the benefits of its implementation. Carolyn talks about the training required behind Brain Spotting.Carolyn shares more about Sandtray Therapy and how it works.We hear about Athleta — Self-compassion, and yoga mixed workshops We talk about worthiness and the importance of reminding ourselves that we are worthy.Carolyn shares about her passion and wheelhouse and how she approaches therapy. Private practice — Not only therapy but it’s also running a business.Carolyn talks about her video sessions.Carolyn shares her story of hope: Infertility and the ebb and flow. Tweetables:“You need to make sure that you know where you are putting your priorities, your time and your energy, because you shouldn’t be doing everything. You’re not going to do everything well. You need to pick what’s in your best interest, what’s in your value set and what’s going to feed your spirit, or fill your cup, versus what the world seems to be telling you, you should be doing.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:03:25]“We don’t have to do everything 100% to be valuable and worthy human beings.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:05:10] “I love the concept of being with ourselves, even when things are not going well. Self-compassion is something that perfectionists need a bit more of in their lives.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:22:45]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Carolyn RobistowCarolyn Robistow on LinkedInCarolyn Robistow on FacebookJoy Effect CounselingAthletaMosaics of Mercy

On today’s show, we have Carolyn Robistow, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. Carolyn specializes specifically in helping those who struggle with stress and anxiety, perfection, infertility, ADHD and focus. Inside this episode, we talk about the importance of prioritization in our lives, Carlyon expands on a new brain-based therapy called Brain Spotting, as well as a play therapy method called Sandtray Therapy. We also talk about the importance that self-compassion plays within our lives and establishing our worthiness. Carolyn shares with us her approach to therapy sessions, where she foresees her practice heading with the implementation of video sessions, and her passion for mentoring interns not only through the therapy aspect of private practice but also how to run a business. We end the episode today with a heartfelt, personal story of hope from Carolyn. So stay tuned to hear it all on Hope Pieced Together. Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Carolyn shares on “The Should’s,” how we prioritize things matters.</li><li>The importance of sorting through your top tire values. </li><li>Brain Spotting: What this is and the benefits of its implementation. </li><li>Carolyn talks about the training required behind Brain Spotting.</li><li>Carolyn shares more about Sandtray Therapy and how it works.</li><li>We hear about Athleta — Self-compassion, and yoga mixed workshops </li><li>We talk about worthiness and the importance of reminding ourselves that we are worthy.</li><li>Carolyn shares about her passion and wheelhouse and how she approaches therapy. </li><li>Private practice — Not only therapy but it’s also running a business.</li><li>Carolyn talks about her video sessions.</li><li>Carolyn shares her story of hope: Infertility and the ebb and flow. </li></ul> Tweetables:“You need to make sure that you know where you are putting your priorities, your time and your energy, because you shouldn’t be doing everything. You’re not going to do everything well. You need to pick what’s in your best interest, what’s in your value set and what’s going to feed your spirit, or fill your cup, versus what the world seems to be telling you, you should be doing.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:03:25]“We don’t have to do everything 100% to be valuable and worthy human beings.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:05:10] “I love the concept of being with ourselves, even when things are not going well. Self-compassion is something that perfectionists need a bit more of in their lives.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:22:45] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://joyeffectcounseling.com/carolyn/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carolyn Robistow</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-robistow-lpc-69484b12a/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carolyn Robistow on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Carolynrobistow/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carolyn Robistow on Facebook</a><a href="https://joyeffectcounseling.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joy Effect Counseling</a><a href="https://events.athleta.com/mosaicsofmercyyoga" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Athleta</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a>

Perfectionism, Anxiety, and Overwhelm with Carolyn Robistow

Mike Schweser

Sex and pornography addiction are coming more to the fore in the modern world as we see the effects of readily available explicit material on the internet. Today we discuss these issues with LeighAnn and Mike Schweser, a couple who have dealt with these problems in a very personal way. After 18 years of a supposedly happy marriage, Mike's use of pornography started to become apparent to LeighAnn and even though there were denial and attempts at new habits, the problems remained for years, leading up to an affair and the near-end of their marriage. We hear from our guests about the extreme challenges that they faced, the important moments and how an undying commitment to each other and God helped them come through the struggle together. It is a conversation about a lot of difficulty and shame but also one with a huge message of hope for all listeners! The resounding theme is the compassion and understanding that Mike and LeighAnn fostered for each other in the darkest of times and this idea is great for any couples that might be struggling, no matter the issue. We hear about how this addiction is not actually about sex but more about shame and emotions, the process of learning more deeply about each other, the importance of faith in this process of healing and more. Make sure not to miss this amazing story of love, hope, and redemption!Key Points From This Episode:How LeighAnn and Mike met, their young marriage after school and their shared values. The events that shook LeighAnn and Mike's marriage after 18 years. Feelings that came up for Mike when LeighAnn confronted him about his issues.Moving to Houston, travels to Africa and the secret lives that developed for the couple. The letter that Mike wrote and how LeighAnn discovered the affair he was having.How LeighAnn learned about addiction and took the guilt off of herself. The realizations that Mike had, attending counseling and confession and breaking the denial structures. LeighAnn's thoughts on forgiveness and the grace that God gave her. Support systems and the hope that our guests found in Pure Desire.The pervasiveness of struggles with pornography with today's ease of access. Why masturbation is still sex outside of marriage and is dangerous for later life practices. Creating a safe space to understand each other and addiction better. Mature and patient decisions about recovery and maintaining compassion for each other. The amazing moments of understanding and learning through couples work together. Mike's hope in spite of denial and not knowing how he would heal. Giving the seemingly impossible a chance and not giving up on a partner. A final message of hope from Mike and LeighAnn!Tweetables:“Denial is not just a long river in Africa.” — Mike Schweser [0:08:00]“I made mistakes in our marriage too. I could have handled things better when we started to disintegrate.” — LeighAnn Schweser [0:23:48]“Forgiveness is such a tricky thing and so many people have so many different opinions about it.” — LeighAnn Schweser [0:33:09]“The goal is to develop, emotionally mature and start healing those strongholds.” — Mike Schweser [0:43:25]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mosaics of MercyPatrick Doyle PodcastPure Desire

Sex and pornography addiction are coming more to the fore in the modern world as we see the effects of readily available explicit material on the internet. Today we discuss these issues with LeighAnn and Mike Schweser, a couple who have dealt with these problems in a very personal way. After 18 years of a supposedly happy marriage, Mike's use of pornography started to become apparent to LeighAnn and even though there were denial and attempts at new habits, the problems remained for years, leading up to an affair and the near-end of their marriage. We hear from our guests about the extreme challenges that they faced, the important moments and how an undying commitment to each other and God helped them come through the struggle together.  It is a conversation about a lot of difficulty and shame but also one with a huge message of hope for all listeners! The resounding theme is the compassion and understanding that Mike and LeighAnn fostered for each other in the darkest of times and this idea is great for any couples that might be struggling, no matter the issue. We hear about how this addiction is not actually about sex but more about shame and emotions, the process of learning more deeply about each other, the importance of faith in this process of healing and more. Make sure not to miss this amazing story of love, hope, and redemption! Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>How LeighAnn and Mike met, their young marriage after school and their shared values. </li><li>The events that shook LeighAnn and Mike's marriage after 18 years. </li><li>Feelings that came up for Mike when LeighAnn confronted him about his issues.</li><li>Moving to Houston, travels to Africa and the secret lives that developed for the couple. </li><li>The letter that Mike wrote and how LeighAnn discovered the affair he was having.</li><li>How LeighAnn learned about addiction and took the guilt off of herself. </li><li>The realizations that Mike had, attending counseling and confession and breaking the denial structures. </li><li>LeighAnn's thoughts on forgiveness and the grace that God gave her. </li><li>Support systems and the hope that our guests found in Pure Desire.</li><li>The pervasiveness of struggles with pornography with today's ease of access. </li><li>Why masturbation is still sex outside of marriage and is dangerous for later life practices. </li><li>Creating a safe space to understand each other and addiction better. </li><li>Mature and patient decisions about recovery and maintaining compassion for each other. </li><li>The amazing moments of understanding and learning through couples work together. </li><li>Mike's hope in spite of denial and not knowing how he would heal. </li><li>Giving the seemingly impossible a chance and not giving up on a partner. </li><li>A final message of hope from Mike and LeighAnn!</li></ul> Tweetables:“Denial is not just a long river in Africa.” — Mike Schweser [0:08:00]“I made mistakes in our marriage too. I could have handled things better when we started to disintegrate.” — LeighAnn Schweser [0:23:48]“Forgiveness is such a tricky thing and so many people have so many different opinions about it.” — LeighAnn Schweser [0:33:09]“The goal is to develop, emotionally mature and start healing those strongholds.” — Mike Schweser [0:43:25] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a><a href="http://www.veritascounseling.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patrick Doyle Podcast</a><a href="https://puredesire.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pure Desire</a>

Sex and Pornography Addiction in Marriage with LeighAnn and Mike Schweser

Kate Turner

Some things are so painful that they get locked up in the heart forever. People can spend their entire lives carrying these scars around, sometimes without even knowing they do. In an effort to buffer away from this hurt, individuals turn to all manner of destructive habits. Today’s guest is Kate Turner, and she is a practicing counselor who specializes in trauma recovery therapy and parenting. Kate joins us on the show today to speak about the roots and manifestations of trauma, healing methods she uses in her practice, and actionable skills parents can use to heal from their own pain thus inflicting less of it on their kids. Kate breaks down her HeartSync philosophy which sees the heart as a three-part being that both stores and guards itself against trauma, locking it in as a protective mechanism that ends up causing further damage. Kate takes her patients through faith-based visualization processes to help them unblock these stoppages and release old pain, to the effect of healing both emotional and physical ailments. She also shares more about her Love and Logic workshops which help children and parents learn more peaceful ways of communicating, having the effect of families ultimately leading more fulfilling and whole lives. Key Points From This Episode:What HeartSync is all about: a faith-based way of healing from trauma.The three parts of the heart: the emotional part, the logical part, and the ‘guardian.’Wounds that we suffer from as babies or children while we are over-egocentric.Using the heart model to understand how trauma gets buffered by distractions/addictions.How the guardian stops emotional trauma spilling into the logical part of the heart.Vices caused by the guardian keeping emotions in: drugs, food, sex, technology, etc.Somatic/physical manifestations of trauma that subside after therapy.The Christian elements of HeartSync that use Jesus as part of the healing process.Applications of HeartSync to people who have been wounded due to their faith.Dangers of giving kids free reign on the internet in their rooms: they encounter wrongdoing.Tweetables:“It’s not about fixing my kids, it’s about taking a look at myself.” — Kate Turner [0:24:17]“I have seen people healed not only emotionally but also physically in the most, you could say, miraculous of ways.” — Kate Turner [0:47:11]“It does take courage to pick up the phone and yet there can be so much hope and help on the other side of the line.” — Kate Turner [0:48:31]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kate Turner — http://katedturner.com/Kate Turner on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateturnercounseling/Kate Turner Counseling on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/kate_turner_counseling/Father Andrew Miller — http://www.heartsyncministries.org/about/Joey Gentempo — https://hisfathersheart.org/author/joeygentempo/Internal Family Systems — https://ifs-institute.com/Richard C. Schwartz — https://ifs-institute.com/about-us/richard-c-schwartz-phdThe Tech-Wise Family — https://www.amazon.com/Tech-Wise-Family-Everyday-Putting-Technology/dp/0801018668

Some things are so painful that they get locked up in the heart forever. People can spend their entire lives carrying these scars around, sometimes without even knowing they do. In an effort to buffer away from this hurt, individuals turn to all manner of destructive habits. Today’s guest is Kate Turner, and she is a practicing counselor who specializes in trauma recovery therapy and parenting. Kate joins us on the show today to speak about the roots and manifestations of trauma, healing methods she uses in her practice, and actionable skills parents can use to heal from their own pain thus inflicting less of it on their kids.  Kate breaks down her HeartSync philosophy which sees the heart as a three-part being that both stores and guards itself against trauma, locking it in as a protective mechanism that ends up causing further damage. Kate takes her patients through faith-based visualization processes to help them unblock these stoppages and release old pain, to the effect of healing both emotional and physical ailments. She also shares more about her Love and Logic workshops which help children and parents learn more peaceful ways of communicating, having the effect of families ultimately leading more fulfilling and whole lives.  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>What HeartSync is all about: a faith-based way of healing from trauma.</li><li>The three parts of the heart: the emotional part, the logical part, and the ‘guardian.’</li><li>Wounds that we suffer from as babies or children while we are over-egocentric.</li><li>Using the heart model to understand how trauma gets buffered by distractions/addictions.</li><li>How the guardian stops emotional trauma spilling into the logical part of the heart.</li><li>Vices caused by the guardian keeping emotions in: drugs, food, sex, technology, etc.</li><li>Somatic/physical manifestations of trauma that subside after therapy.</li><li>The Christian elements of HeartSync that use Jesus as part of the healing process.</li><li>Applications of HeartSync to people who have been wounded due to their faith.</li><li>Dangers of giving kids free reign on the internet in their rooms: they encounter wrongdoing.</li></ul>Tweetables:“It’s not about fixing my kids, it’s about taking a look at myself.” — Kate Turner [0:24:17]“I have seen people healed not only emotionally but also physically in the most, you could say, miraculous of ways.” — Kate Turner [0:47:11]“It does take courage to pick up the phone and yet there can be so much hope and help on the other side of the line.” — Kate Turner [0:48:31] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kate Turner — <a href="http://katedturner.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://katedturner.com/</a>Kate Turner on LinkedIn — <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateturnercounseling/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateturnercounseling/</a>Kate Turner Counseling on Instagram — <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kate_turner_counseling/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/kate_turner_counseling/</a>Father Andrew Miller — <a href="http://www.heartsyncministries.org/about/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.heartsyncministries.org/about/</a>Joey Gentempo — <a href="https://hisfathersheart.org/author/joeygentempo/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://hisfathersheart.org/author/joeygentempo/</a>Internal Family Systems — <a href="https://ifs-institute.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ifs-institute.com/</a>Richard C. Schwartz — <a href="https://ifs-institute.com/about-us/richard-c-schwartz-phd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ifs-institute.com/about-us/richard-c-schwartz-phd</a>The Tech-Wise Family — <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tech-Wise-Family-Everyday-Putting-Technology/dp/0801018668" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Tech-Wise-Family-Everyday-Putting-Technology/dp/0801018668</a>

Matters of the Heart: Parenting, Trauma, and More with Kate Turner, LPC

Lona Snell

Today listeners can look forward to an insightful interview with Lona Snell who is a Christian counselor in the community. Lona has her own practice where she and other counselors work with first responders and their families, focusing on the interaction between their work and home lives. In the past few months since the outbreak of COVID-19, first responders have been in the crossfire, risking their own safety and lives to help others. Dealing with life and death situations daily, these people experience perpetual trauma, which inevitably affects their wellbeing in the long run and frequently results in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If the trauma remains unresolved, these people may battle with anger, addiction, substance abuse, and a host of other issues, therefore behaving very differently in public than at home — the worst of which affects spouses and children. In this episode, Lana advises on how each of us can become better at supporting first responders, being sensitive listeners and equipping spouses and children to correctly interpret the sometimes unpredictable behavior. She also discusses the importance of self-care, effective communication within families, counterbalancing trauma, and the role that others can play in a person’s journey to healing. Key Points From This Episode:An overview of Lona’s interests and focus areas in her counseling practice. Those who are considered first responders: firefighters, dispatchers, funeral directors, etc. Find out what all Lona’s credentials mean, from CART to CCTP and EMDR.The main issues that the first responder population tends to face and how they self-medicate. The disconnect between the public and private life of the first responder.  How these workers often accumulate “compound” trauma and the symptoms of PTSD. Hear what happens when trauma remains unresolved or is constantly suppressed.The importance of knowing how to respond appropriately when someone opens up to you.Understanding that vulnerability is strength and the place where powerful change happens. Children’s inaccurate interpretation of disengaged first responder parents. The many faces of compassion fatigue: insomnia, depression, excessive sarcasm.    Teaching kids how they can respond to and support their parents at home. Advice about the appropriate amount of sharing with kids and how to model self-care. Counterbalancing work-related trauma by surrounding yourself with uplifting things. Approaching faith in counseling and the role people play in demonstrating the love of God. An encouraging story about a first responder giving back after finding healing for himself. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Lona Snell Lona Snell on LinkedInHIPAABrené BrownMosaics of Mercy Sherry Burkhard on LinkedIn

Today listeners can look forward to an insightful interview with Lona Snell who is a Christian counselor in the community. Lona has her own practice where she and other counselors work with first responders and their families, focusing on the interaction between their work and home lives. In the past few months since the outbreak of COVID-19, first responders have been in the crossfire, risking their own safety and lives to help others. Dealing with life and death situations daily, these people experience perpetual trauma, which inevitably affects their wellbeing in the long run and frequently results in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If the trauma remains unresolved, these people may battle with anger, addiction, substance abuse, and a host of other issues, therefore behaving very differently in public than at home — the worst of which affects spouses and children. In this episode, Lana advises on how each of us can become better at supporting first responders, being sensitive listeners and equipping spouses and children to correctly interpret the sometimes unpredictable behavior. She also discusses the importance of self-care, effective communication within families, counterbalancing trauma, and the role that others can play in a person’s journey to healing.  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>An overview of Lona’s interests and focus areas in her counseling practice. </li><li>Those who are considered first responders: firefighters, dispatchers, funeral directors, etc. </li><li>Find out what all Lona’s credentials mean, from CART to CCTP and EMDR.</li><li>The main issues that the first responder population tends to face and how they self-medicate. </li><li>The disconnect between the public and private life of the first responder.  </li><li>How these workers often accumulate “compound” trauma and the symptoms of PTSD. </li><li>Hear what happens when trauma remains unresolved or is constantly suppressed.</li><li>The importance of knowing how to respond appropriately when someone opens up to you.</li><li>Understanding that vulnerability is strength and the place where powerful change happens. </li><li>Children’s inaccurate interpretation of disengaged first responder parents. </li><li>The many faces of compassion fatigue: insomnia, depression, excessive sarcasm.    </li><li>Teaching kids how they can respond to and support their parents at home. </li><li>Advice about the appropriate amount of sharing with kids and how to model self-care. </li><li>Counterbalancing work-related trauma by surrounding yourself with uplifting things. </li><li>Approaching faith in counseling and the role people play in demonstrating the love of God. </li><li>An encouraging story about a first responder giving back after finding healing for himself. </li></ul> Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.elevateyourlifecounseling.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lona Snell</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lona-snell-b414b0151/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lona Snell on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HIPAA</a><a href="https://brenebrown.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brené Brown</a><a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-burkhard-9a128b16a/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sherry Burkhard on LinkedIn</a>

Mental Health for First Responders and their Families with Lona Snell, LPC

Anxiety is something that most of us can relate to at the moment. The uncertainties surrounding the global pandemic are affecting all of us in some way, and worries about health, safety, livelihoods, and finances are intensified by the constant influx of news and shifting circumstances. Joining us today is a local counselor, Carolyn Robistow, to share with us about navigating anxiety and tapping into our resilience as human beings. While we may be confronted with a new level of uncertainty, it is helpful to remember that all of us have successfully overcome significant challenges, including being uncertain at times. In this episode, Carolyn gives listeners a few exercises for grounding themselves so that they are better equipped to cope with the situation, and while these activities do not exempt us from the discomfort, that can help to get us from worrying about the future to being focused on the present. Tuning in, listeners will also learn more about the different ways that anxiety can manifest, noticing your emotions, creating space for both positive and negative feelings, and extending grace to the people around you. Key Points From This Episode:The two main areas that Carolyn’s clientele are currently anxious about: health and finances. Carolyn’s unique perspective working with over-functioning, high-achieving professionals. The role of our amygdala in keeping us in a state of regulation and how it gets triggered. The different ways that anxiety manifests in people who are not normally anxious. Being aware of how you feel in your body and when you react in a dysregulated manner. Allowing yourself to feel the waves of emotion from a grounded and resourced place. Techniques for pulling yourself out of future worry and grounding yourself in the present. How to hack the vagus nerve to activate your parasympathetic nervous system. Keeping in mind that grounding exercises do not remove but simply alleviate anxiety.Recognizing your own resilience and that uncertainty is something we have all dealt with. Realizing that positivity and gratitude do not exempt people from suffering.  The benefits of finding things to be grateful for and sharing them with someone else. Tweetables:“The whole purpose that our brain has is to help us exist in a state of regulation and homeostasis. So, it wants us to be safe and protected and comfortable and happy.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:04:06]“Feelings do come in waves, they don’t come and stay. They may be more intense than we want so we work to bring them into smaller, more tolerable waves but overall, they tend to be waves and are temporary.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:09:56]“Anxiety is like getting lost in future worry. Grounding is meant to bring us into the here and now.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:13:34] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Carolyn RobistowThe Joy Effect Mosaics of Mercy Sherry Burkhard on LinkedIn

Anxiety is something that most of us can relate to at the moment. The uncertainties surrounding the global pandemic are affecting all of us in some way, and worries about health, safety, livelihoods, and finances are intensified by the constant influx of news and shifting circumstances. Joining us today is a local counselor, Carolyn Robistow, to share with us about navigating anxiety and tapping into our resilience as human beings. While we may be confronted with a new level of uncertainty, it is helpful to remember that all of us have successfully overcome significant challenges, including being uncertain at times. In this episode, Carolyn gives listeners a few exercises for grounding themselves so that they are better equipped to cope with the situation, and while these activities do not exempt us from the discomfort, that can help to get us from worrying about the future to being focused on the present. Tuning in, listeners will also learn more about the different ways that anxiety can manifest, noticing your emotions, creating space for both positive and negative feelings, and extending grace to the people around you.  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>The two main areas that Carolyn’s clientele are currently anxious about: health and finances. </li><li>Carolyn’s unique perspective working with over-functioning, high-achieving professionals. </li><li>The role of our amygdala in keeping us in a state of regulation and how it gets triggered. </li><li>The different ways that anxiety manifests in people who are not normally anxious. </li><li>Being aware of how you feel in your body and when you react in a dysregulated manner. </li><li>Allowing yourself to feel the waves of emotion from a grounded and resourced place. </li><li>Techniques for pulling yourself out of future worry and grounding yourself in the present. </li><li>How to hack the vagus nerve to activate your parasympathetic nervous system. </li><li>Keeping in mind that grounding exercises do not remove but simply alleviate anxiety.</li><li>Recognizing your own resilience and that uncertainty is something we have all dealt with. </li><li>Realizing that positivity and gratitude do not exempt people from suffering.  </li><li>The benefits of finding things to be grateful for and sharing them with someone else. </li></ul> Tweetables:“The whole purpose that our brain has is to help us exist in a state of regulation and homeostasis. So, it wants us to be safe and protected and comfortable and happy.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:04:06]“Feelings do come in waves, they don’t come and stay. They may be more intense than we want so we work to bring them into smaller, more tolerable waves but overall, they tend to be waves and are temporary.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:09:56]“Anxiety is like getting lost in future worry. Grounding is meant to bring us into the here and now.” — Carolyn Robistow [0:13:34]  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/carolyn-robistow-the-woodlands-tx/346078" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carolyn Robistow</a><a href="https://joyeffectcounseling.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Joy Effect</a> <a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-burkhard-9a128b16a/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sherry Burkhard on LinkedIn</a>

Navigating Anxiety in Uncertainty with Carolyn Robistow

Whitcomb Terpening

Suicide carries such a stigma around it that people, including mental health professionals, feel afraid to bring it up, even when someone around them may be struggling with the issue in some way. As the number of suicides and suicide attempts continues to rise every year, it is increasingly important to break down these barriers and to engage in open conversations around the topic. Today’s guest, Whitcomb Terpening, a licensed social clinical worker, and suicide specialist, runs the only dedicated suicide practice in the US. In this episode, Whitcomb shares more about her journey and how it intersected with a professional passion for treating suicide. We talk about why it was important for her to establish a practice that was an alternative to in-patient hospitalization. Suicide is a spectrum and as such, there needs to be a variety of treatment options available. We also discuss how to spot suicidal thoughts in people, particularly amid this coronavirus crisis. Many of the usual signs are more difficult to notice, so it's necessary to be alert to certain behavior. Along with this, Whitcomb also illustrates the importance of just asking someone if they’re struggling with suicidal thoughts. People often believe that by mentioning it, they will put an idea in someone’s head, but this could not be further from the truth. Giving someone a safe place to talk is an incredibly comforting experience. We also talk about how the community at large can play its part in preventing suicide, the importance of reaching out, and some training resources that non-professionals can undergo to deal with the issue. Be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode:•    Learn more about Whitcomb’s background, The Semicolon Group, and the practice.•    Find out about the personal experience that led Whitcomb to work in suicide. •    Some of the statistics around suicide in the US that Whitcomb has written about.•    Coronavirus crisis specific suicidal related signs to look out for and ways to reach out.•    How to approach someone you feel may be suicidal and what to do next.•    When the right time would be to call for additional professional help.•    How to help people dealing with suicide-related grief during this time and resources to use.•    Training people can do to equip themselves with skills around dealing with suicide issues.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode Whitcomb Terpening on LinkedIn The Semicolon GroupWe tell suicidal people to go to therapy. So why are therapists rarely trained in suicide?How to find a therapist if you’re suicidalOur Silence is Killing UsQPR InstituteTexas Suicide PreventionApplied Suicide Intervention Skills TrainingCALM: Counseling on Access to Lethal MeansNational Suicide Prevention LifelineCrisis Text Line

Suicide carries such a stigma around it that people, including mental health professionals, feel afraid to bring it up, even when someone around them may be struggling with the issue in some way. As the number of suicides and suicide attempts continues to rise every year, it is increasingly important to break down these barriers and to engage in open conversations around the topic. Today’s guest, Whitcomb Terpening, a licensed social clinical worker, and suicide specialist, runs the only dedicated suicide practice in the US. In this episode, Whitcomb shares more about her journey and how it intersected with a professional passion for treating suicide. We talk about why it was important for her to establish a practice that was an alternative to in-patient hospitalization. Suicide is a spectrum and as such, there needs to be a variety of treatment options available. We also discuss how to spot suicidal thoughts in people, particularly amid this coronavirus crisis. Many of the usual signs are more difficult to notice, so it's necessary to be alert to certain behavior. Along with this, Whitcomb also illustrates the importance of just asking someone if they’re struggling with suicidal thoughts. People often believe that by mentioning it, they will put an idea in someone’s head, but this could not be further from the truth. Giving someone a safe place to talk is an incredibly comforting experience. We also talk about how the community at large can play its part in preventing suicide, the importance of reaching out, and some training resources that non-professionals can undergo to deal with the issue. Be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode:•    Learn more about Whitcomb’s background, The Semicolon Group, and the practice.•    Find out about the personal experience that led Whitcomb to work in suicide. •    Some of the statistics around suicide in the US that Whitcomb has written about.•    Coronavirus crisis specific suicidal related signs to look out for and ways to reach out.•    How to approach someone you feel may be suicidal and what to do next.•    When the right time would be to call for additional professional help.•    How to help people dealing with suicide-related grief during this time and resources to use.•    Training people can do to equip themselves with skills around dealing with suicide issues. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitcombterpening/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Whitcomb Terpening on LinkedIn</a> <a href="http://thesemicolongroup.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Semicolon Group</a><a href="https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/news/nation/2020/02/27/suicide-prevention-therapists-rarely-trained-treat-suicidal-people/4616734002/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">We tell suicidal people to go to therapy. So why are therapists rarely trained in suicide?</a><a href="https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/news/nation/2020/02/27/suicide-help-heres-how-find-therapist-if-youre-suicidal/4692072002/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to find a therapist if you’re suicidal</a><a href="http://thesemicolongroup.com/2019/08/04/the-silence-of-suicide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Our Silence is Killing Us</a><a href="https://qprinstitute.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">QPR Institute</a><a href="https://texassuicideprevention.org/training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Texas Suicide Prevention</a><a href="https://www.sprc.org/resources-programs/applied-suicide-intervention-skills-training-asist" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training</a><a href="https://www.sprc.org/resources-programs/calm-counseling-access-lethal-means" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CALM: Counseling on Access to Lethal Means</a><a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National Suicide Prevention Lifeline</a><a href="https://www.crisistextline.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Crisis Text Line</a>

Tackling Suicide: A Professional Perspective with Whitcomb Terpening

Paul Abrahams

Joining us today is Kristin and Paul Abrahams to talk to listeners about marriage in stressful times. Right now, around the world, people are dealing with unprecedented stress, circumstances that take their toll on our mental health. With COVID-19 having many countries in lockdown, couples are facing a new repertoire of challenges. Kristin and Paul share some helpful resources to support marriages through this crisis, including books and devotional apps that help the whole family to reconnect with God, communicate better, and stay entertained. In addition to Kristin’s leading role in marriage ministries at Faith Bible Church, the couple also facilitates the re⎮engage marriage counseling program and talk to listeners about what it entails, the benefits of group counseling, and how they can get involved even if they are not a member of their church. In light of the global pandemic, they discuss the conflict that arises from suddenly being together 24/7, the shifting roles around the home, new work-related responsibilities, and dealing with the increasing anxieties surrounding the crisis. Getting on the same page as your spouse is hard enough as it is, but it is complicated even more when partners have different coping mechanisms. In this episode, we equip you with the information, tools, and communication strategies needed to keep your marriage strong during tough times and also encourage listeners with the hope that we always have in Christ. Key Points From This Episode:Kristin’s involvement with marriage counseling at Faith Bible Church. Why Kristin and Paul are “qualified” to help other people overcome challenges in marriage. Hear about the re⎮engage ministry, our guests’ involvement, and the structure of the course. The benefits of accountability and vulnerability that emerge in the context of a group. How group counseling offers the opportunity to learn from other couples’ experiences. Examples of the issues that brought couples to the program before versus after the outbreak. The stress of new and shifting roles that being restricted to the home has brought about.Navigating changing workloads, new responsibilities, and job insecurity. The difficulty of getting on the same page when people have conflicting coping mechanisms. A list of helpful tools for couples to employ during this trying period. Why it is important to implement some form of structure and consistency in the home. Tweetables:“One of the things that are really cool about re⎮engage too is that it is a discipleship program in that, yes, we are talking about our marriages every single week, and yet the real focus is on our intimacy with Jesus and how he transforms us.” — Paul Abrahams [0:04:44]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kristin AbrahamsFaith Bible Church Watermark Community Church re⎮engageBrené BrownJesus CallingHow to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts WrongJoin The JourneyBrian Regan WhataburgerLove Nudge Zoom

Joining us today is Kristin and Paul Abrahams to talk to listeners about marriage in stressful times. Right now, around the world, people are dealing with unprecedented stress, circumstances that take their toll on our mental health. With COVID-19 having many countries in lockdown, couples are facing a new repertoire of challenges. Kristin and Paul share some helpful resources to support marriages through this crisis, including books and devotional apps that help the whole family to reconnect with God, communicate better, and stay entertained. In addition to Kristin’s leading role in marriage ministries at Faith Bible Church, the couple also facilitates the re⎮engage marriage counseling program and talk to listeners about what it entails, the benefits of group counseling, and how they can get involved even if they are not a member of their church. In light of the global pandemic, they discuss the conflict that arises from suddenly being together 24/7, the shifting roles around the home, new work-related responsibilities, and dealing with the increasing anxieties surrounding the crisis. Getting on the same page as your spouse is hard enough as it is, but it is complicated even more when partners have different coping mechanisms. In this episode, we equip you with the information, tools, and communication strategies needed to keep your marriage strong during tough times and also encourage listeners with the hope that we always have in Christ.  Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Kristin’s involvement with marriage counseling at Faith Bible Church. </li><li>Why Kristin and Paul are “qualified” to help other people overcome challenges in marriage. </li><li>Hear about the re⎮engage ministry, our guests’ involvement, and the structure of the course. </li><li>The benefits of accountability and vulnerability that emerge in the context of a group. </li><li>How group counseling offers the opportunity to learn from other couples’ experiences. </li><li>Examples of the issues that brought couples to the program before versus after the outbreak. </li><li>The stress of new and shifting roles that being restricted to the home has brought about.</li><li>Navigating changing workloads, new responsibilities, and job insecurity. </li><li>The difficulty of getting on the same page when people have conflicting coping mechanisms. </li><li>A list of helpful tools for couples to employ during this trying period. </li><li>Why it is important to implement some form of structure and consistency in the home. </li></ul> Tweetables:“One of the things that are really cool about re⎮engage too is that it is a discipleship program in that, yes, we are talking about our marriages every single week, and yet the real focus is on our intimacy with Jesus and how he transforms us.” — Paul Abrahams [0:04:44] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="http://www.faithbibleonline.org/about-us/leadership/member/1376571/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kristin Abrahams</a><a href="http://www.faithbibleonline.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Faith Bible Church</a> <a href="https://www.watermark.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Watermark Community Church</a> <a href="http://marriagehelp.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">re⎮engage</a><a href="https://brenebrown.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brené Brown</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Calling-Enjoying-Peace-Presence/dp/1591451884" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jesus Calling</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Right-When-Your-Spouse-Wrong/dp/0307458490" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts Wrong</a><a href="https://www.jointhejourney.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Join The Journey</a><a href="https://brianregan.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brian Regan</a> <a href="https://whataburger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Whataburger</a><a href="https://www.5lovelanguages.com/lovenudge/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love Nudge</a> <a href="https://zoom.us" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zoom</a>

Protecting Your Marriage in Stressful Times with Kristin and Paul Abrahams

Lauren Hollis

In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, we are all constantly faced with the reactions of those around us. Lauren Hollis joins us today to talk about helpful ways of coping with external responses, as well as those within ourselves and our families. Lauren is a counselor in the Woodlands area and an LPC-certified child life specialist. As such she is very well positioned to give an informed perspective on what we are currently facing with the global pandemic. It is so important to understand our own responses and then to apply understanding to these and the ones we encounter. There are loads of great information and ideas in today's episode as we explore the implications of being housebound, homeschooling and other people's trigger points. Lauren argues that it is a great time to consciously allow ourselves and others more grace, even when it is tough! We talk about the array of reactions that we might witness in light of the coronavirus and how these can be tough to agree with.

In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, we are all constantly faced with the reactions of those around us. Lauren Hollis joins us today to talk about helpful ways of coping with external responses, as well as those within ourselves and our families. Lauren is a counselor in the Woodlands area and an LPC-certified child life specialist. As such she is very well positioned to give an informed perspective on what we are currently facing with the global pandemic. It is so important to understand our own responses and then to apply understanding to these and the ones we encounter. There are loads of great information and ideas in today's episode as we explore the implications of being housebound, homeschooling and other people's trigger points. Lauren argues that it is a great time to consciously allow ourselves and others more grace, even when it is tough! We talk about the array of reactions that we might witness in light of the coronavirus and how these can be tough to agree with.

Responses, Coping, and Parenting During COVID-19 with Lauren Hollis

The connection between motherhood and ADHD is often made through cases where children are diagnosed with the condition. But what about situations where a mother is struggling with some level of ADHD? Our guest today, Patricia Sung, has her own podcast that deals with that exact question! Motherhood in ADHD is her exploration of her journey, grappling with the difficulties of her ADHD and the beauty and glory of raising children. Patricia shares her story of a late diagnosis going into her college years and how difficult it was to manage initially. Almost twenty years later she has a much larger set of tools and strategies for managing but she tells us how becoming a mother threw another spanner in the works and posed a whole new set of challenges for her. She talks about how it is possible to flourish with ADHD and how your tools and planning can become your lighthouse in a stormy sea. We discuss the difficulty of separating ADHD from personality traits and how perfectionism is strongly linked to her awareness of her condition. Patricia wants to help mothers be the best they can be, even with the issues that stem from ADHD. For her it is all about reassurance and removing self-doubt, creating a sense of community and solace. The conversation also covers the shame spiral that can occur and ways that she has found to exit the cycle. For a beautiful, hopeful and honest discussion on something not often spoken about enough, tune in with us today.Key Points From This Episode:Some background on Patricia and her podcast about mothers with ADHD. Patricia's later diagnosed with ADHD and what happened when she arrived at college. Common reactions to ADHD diagnoses and the spectrum of feelings that arise.Challenges to mothers with ADHD; Patricia's experiences since having kids The importance of planning and what happens when something unforeseen arises. Connections between perfectionism and ADHD and the development of over-carefulness.  The differences between each person's kind of ADHD; no one size fits all system for coping. Getting help and the role of a counselor in managing the challenges of ADHD. Patricia's experience of 'brain-spotting' and accessing uncomfortable feelings.   Feelings of guilt and shame around motherhood and hopelessness in the face of struggle.    Including your children in your life; keeping boundaries but showing up authentically.The recipe for great teams, culture, and communication; less judgment for voicing issues. Patricia's message of hope, community and letting the light shine in safely.Tweetables:“When you have the right support with ADHD, you can flourish.” — Patricia Sung [0:09:11]“Everyone's ADHD is different.” — Patricia Sung [0:21:25]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mosaics of MercyPatricia SungMotherhood in ADHDBrené BrownHarry PotterBurnoutC.S. LewisThe Power of HabitSmarter, Faster, BetterCharles Duhigg

The connection between motherhood and ADHD is often made through cases where children are diagnosed with the condition. But what about situations where a mother is struggling with some level of ADHD? Our guest today, Patricia Sung, has her own podcast that deals with that exact question! Motherhood in ADHD is her exploration of her journey, grappling with the difficulties of her ADHD and the beauty and glory of raising children. Patricia shares her story of a late diagnosis going into her college years and how difficult it was to manage initially.  Almost twenty years later she has a much larger set of tools and strategies for managing but she tells us how becoming a mother threw another spanner in the works and posed a whole new set of challenges for her. She talks about how it is possible to flourish with ADHD and how your tools and planning can become your lighthouse in a stormy sea. We discuss the difficulty of separating ADHD from personality traits and how perfectionism is strongly linked to her awareness of her condition. Patricia wants to help mothers be the best they can be, even with the issues that stem from ADHD. For her it is all about reassurance and removing self-doubt, creating a sense of community and solace. The conversation also covers the shame spiral that can occur and ways that she has found to exit the cycle. For a beautiful, hopeful and honest discussion on something not often spoken about enough, tune in with us today. Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Some background on Patricia and her podcast about mothers with ADHD. </li><li>Patricia's later diagnosed with ADHD and what happened when she arrived at college. </li><li>Common reactions to ADHD diagnoses and the spectrum of feelings that arise.</li><li>Challenges to mothers with ADHD; Patricia's experiences since having kids </li><li>The importance of planning and what happens when something unforeseen arises. </li><li>Connections between perfectionism and ADHD and the development of over-carefulness.  </li><li>The differences between each person's kind of ADHD; no one size fits all system for coping. </li><li>Getting help and the role of a counselor in managing the challenges of ADHD. </li><li>Patricia's experience of 'brain-spotting' and accessing uncomfortable feelings.   </li><li>Feelings of guilt and shame around motherhood and hopelessness in the face of struggle.    </li><li>Including your children in your life; keeping boundaries but showing up authentically.</li><li>The recipe for great teams, culture, and communication; less judgment for voicing issues. </li><li>Patricia's message of hope, community and letting the light shine in safely.</li></ul> Tweetables:“When you have the right support with ADHD, you can flourish.” — Patricia Sung [0:09:11]“Everyone's ADHD is different.” — Patricia Sung [0:21:25] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://mosaicsofmercy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosaics of Mercy</a><a href="https://www.patriciasung.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patricia Sung</a><a href="https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Motherhood in ADHD</a><a href="https://brenebrown.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brené Brown</a><a href="https://www.wizardingworld.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Harry Potter</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Burnout-Secret-Unlocking-Stress-Cycle/dp/198481706X" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Burnout</a><a href="https://www.cslewis.com/us/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">C.S. Lewis</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/B007EJSMC8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Power of Habit</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Smarter-Faster-Better-Transformative-Productivity-ebook/dp/B00Z3FRYB0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Smarter, Faster, Better</a><a href="https://charlesduhigg.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Charles Duhigg</a>

ADHD, Perfectionism and Anxiety: A Mother's Story with Patricia Sung

Deborah Michel

For some people, poor body image is a sign of a serious problem: an eating disorder. Eating disorders are not just always about food. They are often a way to cope with difficult problems, a form of trauma or a way to regain some form of control. We need to be able to understand all the different topics around eating disorders so we can be informed. Joining us on the show today we have Dr. Deborah Michel, regional managing director at the Eating Recovery Center (ERC) in The Woodlands, Texas. Dr. Michel is also co-author of the book When Dieting Becomes Dangerous: A Guide to Understanding and Treating Anorexia and Bulimia. During this conversation, Dr. Michel discusses eating disorders and signs and symptoms to look out for, how challenging eating disorders treatment and recovery can be, the changes in the eating disorder field over the years, and ways in which social media has changed the world of eating disorders. Be sure to keep listening to this very interesting conversation with Dr. Deborah Michel!Key Points From This Episode: Dr. Michel tells us how she got involved in treating eating disorders.Changes that have occurred in the eating disorder field over the years.How ERC is steeped in a values-based approach.Family as a big asset in recovery.Change starting from the outside and moving inward.Correcting symptoms lead to changes occurring cognitively and emotionally.The significant focus on nutritional rehabilitation.Dr. Michel’s belief that it takes a village in the recovery of those with eating disorders.Why we live in a hostile recovery environment.Social media and how it’s changed the world of eating disorders.The trauma we know is a risk factor for any type of psychological difficulty.Trauma and complex relational trauma and the effect it has on your life.Navigating trauma to help prevent eating disorders.Power of validation and its significance for individuals.Benefits of eating together and having family meals.Importance of regulating your emotions.Addressing the anxiety that goes hand-in-hand with eating disorders.Recovery and full recovery is absolutely possible.The journey of treatment for an eating disorder.Advice for concerned family members and how to seek help for someone else.The invisibility of eating disorders and signs and symptoms that go unseen.Stories of hope for the individual and hope for the family.Tweetables:“When someone’s brain is malnourished it’s not going to be able to utilize all of that information in the way that someone's brain, who is healed and optimal, will.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:05:39]“Families can be our very greatest asset in recovery.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:06:34]“I always have believed that it takes a village in the recovery of those with eating disorders.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:11:19]“Avoidance is anxiety’s best friend.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:33:24]“Recovery and full recovery is absolutely possible.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:40:18]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Eating Recovery CenterWhen Dieting Becomes DangerousCraig Johnson on LinkedInRecovery Record 

For some people, poor body image is a sign of a serious problem: an eating disorder. Eating disorders are not just always about food. They are often a way to cope with difficult problems, a form of trauma or a way to regain some form of control. We need to be able to understand all the different topics around eating disorders so we can be informed. Joining us on the show today we have Dr. Deborah Michel, regional managing director at the Eating Recovery Center (ERC) in The Woodlands, Texas. Dr. Michel is also co-author of the book When Dieting Becomes Dangerous: A Guide to Understanding and Treating Anorexia and Bulimia. During this conversation, Dr. Michel discusses eating disorders and signs and symptoms to look out for, how challenging eating disorders treatment and recovery can be, the changes in the eating disorder field over the years, and ways in which social media has changed the world of eating disorders. Be sure to keep listening to this very interesting conversation with Dr. Deborah Michel! Key Points From This Episode: <ul><li>Dr. Michel tells us how she got involved in treating eating disorders.</li><li>Changes that have occurred in the eating disorder field over the years.</li><li>How ERC is steeped in a values-based approach.</li><li>Family as a big asset in recovery.</li><li>Change starting from the outside and moving inward.</li><li>Correcting symptoms lead to changes occurring cognitively and emotionally.</li><li>The significant focus on nutritional rehabilitation.</li><li>Dr. Michel’s belief that it takes a village in the recovery of those with eating disorders.</li><li>Why we live in a hostile recovery environment.</li><li>Social media and how it’s changed the world of eating disorders.</li><li>The trauma we know is a risk factor for any type of psychological difficulty.</li><li>Trauma and complex relational trauma and the effect it has on your life.</li><li>Navigating trauma to help prevent eating disorders.</li><li>Power of validation and its significance for individuals.</li><li>Benefits of eating together and having family meals.</li><li>Importance of regulating your emotions.</li><li>Addressing the anxiety that goes hand-in-hand with eating disorders.</li><li>Recovery and full recovery is absolutely possible.</li><li>The journey of treatment for an eating disorder.</li><li>Advice for concerned family members and how to seek help for someone else.</li><li>The invisibility of eating disorders and signs and symptoms that go unseen.</li><li>Stories of hope for the individual and hope for the family.</li></ul> Tweetables:“When someone’s brain is malnourished it’s not going to be able to utilize all of that information in the way that someone's brain, who is healed and optimal, will.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:05:39]“Families can be our very greatest asset in recovery.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:06:34]“I always have believed that it takes a village in the recovery of those with eating disorders.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:11:19]“Avoidance is anxiety’s best friend.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:33:24]“Recovery and full recovery is absolutely possible.” — Dr. Deborah Michel [0:40:18] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eating Recovery Center</a><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/When-Dieting-Becomes-Dangerous-Understanding/dp/0300092334" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">When Dieting Becomes Dangerous</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-johnson-991bb226/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Craig Johnson on LinkedIn</a><a href="https://www.recoveryrecord.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Recovery Record </a>

Eating Disorders: Dr. Deborah Michel, PhD, CEDS

Anna Brown

Are you or someone you know dealing with an eating disorder? Do you often not know where to even begin helping yourself or someone else? Joining us today on the show we have Dr. Anna Brown, Clinical Director at Eating Recovery Center. Eating Recovery Center (ERC) is an integrated, health care system dedicated to the treatment of serious eating and related disorders at any stage of the illness. With eating disorders being so prevalent in our daily lives and being so common in America with over 30 million people struggling with it, we must educate ourselves on the topic. Dr. Anna is here to help us understand eating disorders and the psychology behind them. We discuss “invisible” eating disorders, how to identify eating disorders, recovery from eating disorders, and how ERC can help. For all this and more, keep listening!Key Points From This Episode: Dr. Anna shares her background and how she started working with eating disorders.What ERC has to offer and different in-patient and out-patient programs available.Identifying eating disorders in others.The link between eating disorders and athletics and training.Recovery from eating disorders and how ERC is there to provide a source of hope.Letting go of the familiar and go into the unknown.Finding the right counselor to help deal with an eating disorder.Perceptions about eating disorders.What a day at ERC looks like for Dr. Anna.Virtual ways to seek help through ERC.The benefits of mindfulness in the recovery of eating disorders.Involving families in the recovery process and having them eat meals together.Exposure therapy incorporated into care at ERC to help people deal with life after recovery.Shifts that have taken place in eating disorders over time.Misconceptions surrounding eating disorders and why there is no one specific cause.Different types of eating disorders.Social media awareness groups to help teach people how to handle social media and the effect it has on their lives.Dr. Anna shares the story of Shannon Kopp and her road to recovery.Tweetables:“Eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes, all different kinds of presentations.” — Dr. Anna Brown [0:07:53]“We really take a stance of, families are not to blame.” — Dr. Anna Brown  [0:39:24]“There is no one specific cause for an eating disorder.” — Dr. Anna Brown  [0:40:08]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Eating Recovery CenterShannon KoppPound for PoundSay it Brave

Are you or someone you know dealing with an eating disorder? Do you often not know where to even begin helping yourself or someone else? Joining us today on the show we have Dr. Anna Brown, Clinical Director at Eating Recovery Center. Eating Recovery Center (ERC) is an integrated, health care system dedicated to the treatment of serious eating and related disorders at any stage of the illness. With eating disorders being so prevalent in our daily lives and being so common in America with over 30 million people struggling with it, we must educate ourselves on the topic. Dr. Anna is here to help us understand eating disorders and the psychology behind them. We discuss “invisible” eating disorders, how to identify eating disorders, recovery from eating disorders, and how ERC can help. For all this and more, keep listening! Key Points From This Episode: <ul><li>Dr. Anna shares her background and how she started working with eating disorders.</li><li>What ERC has to offer and different in-patient and out-patient programs available.</li><li>Identifying eating disorders in others.</li><li>The link between eating disorders and athletics and training.</li><li>Recovery from eating disorders and how ERC is there to provide a source of hope.</li><li>Letting go of the familiar and go into the unknown.</li><li>Finding the right counselor to help deal with an eating disorder.</li><li>Perceptions about eating disorders.</li><li>What a day at ERC looks like for Dr. Anna.</li><li>Virtual ways to seek help through ERC.</li><li>The benefits of mindfulness in the recovery of eating disorders.</li><li>Involving families in the recovery process and having them eat meals together.</li><li>Exposure therapy incorporated into care at ERC to help people deal with life after recovery.</li><li>Shifts that have taken place in eating disorders over time.</li><li>Misconceptions surrounding eating disorders and why there is no one specific cause.</li><li>Different types of eating disorders.</li><li>Social media awareness groups to help teach people how to handle social media and the effect it has on their lives.</li><li>Dr. Anna shares the story of Shannon Kopp and her road to recovery.</li></ul> Tweetables:“Eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes, all different kinds of presentations.” — Dr. Anna Brown [0:07:53]“We really take a stance of, families are not to blame.” — Dr. Anna Brown  [0:39:24]“There is no one specific cause for an eating disorder.” — Dr. Anna Brown  [0:40:08] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eating Recovery Center</a><a href="http://shannonkopp.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shannon Kopp</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pound-Story-Womans-Recovery-Shelter-ebook/dp/B00U1TTARY/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pound for Pound</a><a href="https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/misc/say-it-brave" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Say it Brave</a>

Eating Disorders: Dr. Anna Brown

Lisa Squier

Today’s episode is one of hope and healing. We are joined by Lisa Squier, who shares details about her daughter’s suicide attempt two years ago. Being a single mom, Lisa has always been very close to her daughters, yet the suicide attempt by Emily, her youngest daughter, caught her completely off-guard. Lisa had not known that Emily was struggling with her mental health at all until she uncharacteristically woke up in the middle of the night and found her daughter unconscious. She also talks about what the journey since the incident has been like. She and Emily have had to establish a completely different relationship, where full honesty was the central tenet. This meant that Lisa had to get comfortable with asking the tough questions in order to understand how Emily was truly feeling. The incident took an emotional and mental toll on Lisa who found that she had PTSD afterward. She shares the ways that she has found support since and how although she cannot erase what happened, she has tools that allow her to cope with it being a part of her reality. Lisa and Emily have chosen to be open with their story in the hopes that sharing it will have positive effects, no matter how big or small. They have already seen evidence of it, and hope to continue with their cause. Tune in for all this and much more!Key Points From This Episode:Despite being very close to her daughter, Lisa saw no signs of Emily struggling mentally.How Lisa found Emily after her suicide attempt when she was 18.What happened when Lisa went to the emergency room with her daughter.Some of the incredible work that first responders do.Even a few days after the incident, Lisa struggled to piece together what had happened. After Emily was released from the hospital, she went to a psychiatric hospital.Lisa did some ‘investigative’ work of her own to put the story together.The clues that Emily left for Lisa in the event that she succeeded with her plan.For Lisa, it was hard when Emily was in the psychiatric hospital because she was in the dark.Why it was like bringing a newborn home when Emily was discharged from the psychiatric facility. Permission for full disclosure: why being 100% honest was the only way to move forward.Mental health is a backward journey – you start with medication and diagnose from there.Finding the balance between allowing independence versus helping was difficult for Lisa. Lisa realized that she had PTSD after Emily’s incident and how she dealt with it. The ability to always be present helped Lisa cope with the incident greatly. In a sensitive situation, people do want to help, but often do not know how to.A surprising outcome: many people approached Lisa saying that they had similar situations.A powerful moment that showed Lisa why advocating for mental wellness was the right path.Some of the other blessings that have come from Lisa and Emily’s situation.Tweetables:“I didn’t care who knew at that point. I wanted everybody to know because I need as much help as humanly possible.” — Lisa Squier [0:09:21]“The fact that it did not work is proof to me that it was not supposed to.” —  Lisa Squier [0:10:47]“Trust is a huge, huge, huge thing in our family. If you don’t have that, you don’t have anything.” — Lisa Squier [0:17:08]“Anger means action.” — Lisa Squier [0:29:58]“Just ask the hard questions.” — Lisa Squier [0:41:34]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kevin HinesKevin Hines on Twitter Living Out Loud 

Today’s episode is one of hope and healing. We are joined by Lisa Squier, who shares details about her daughter’s suicide attempt two years ago. Being a single mom, Lisa has always been very close to her daughters, yet the suicide attempt by Emily, her youngest daughter, caught her completely off-guard. Lisa had not known that Emily was struggling with her mental health at all until she uncharacteristically woke up in the middle of the night and found her daughter unconscious. She also talks about what the journey since the incident has been like. She and Emily have had to establish a completely different relationship, where full honesty was the central tenet. This meant that Lisa had to get comfortable with asking the tough questions in order to understand how Emily was truly feeling. The incident took an emotional and mental toll on Lisa who found that she had PTSD afterward. She shares the ways that she has found support since and how although she cannot erase what happened, she has tools that allow her to cope with it being a part of her reality. Lisa and Emily have chosen to be open with their story in the hopes that sharing it will have positive effects, no matter how big or small. They have already seen evidence of it, and hope to continue with their cause. Tune in for all this and much more! Key Points From This Episode:<ul><li>Despite being very close to her daughter, Lisa saw no signs of Emily struggling mentally.</li><li>How Lisa found Emily after her suicide attempt when she was 18.</li><li>What happened when Lisa went to the emergency room with her daughter.</li><li>Some of the incredible work that first responders do.</li><li>Even a few days after the incident, Lisa struggled to piece together what had happened. </li><li>After Emily was released from the hospital, she went to a psychiatric hospital.</li><li>Lisa did some ‘investigative’ work of her own to put the story together.</li><li>The clues that Emily left for Lisa in the event that she succeeded with her plan.</li><li>For Lisa, it was hard when Emily was in the psychiatric hospital because she was in the dark.</li><li>Why it was like bringing a newborn home when Emily was discharged from the psychiatric facility. </li><li>Permission for full disclosure: why being 100% honest was the only way to move forward.</li><li>Mental health is a backward journey – you start with medication and diagnose from there.</li><li>Finding the balance between allowing independence versus helping was difficult for Lisa.</li><li> Lisa realized that she had PTSD after Emily’s incident and how she dealt with it. </li><li>The ability to always be present helped Lisa cope with the incident greatly. </li><li>In a sensitive situation, people do want to help, but often do not know how to.</li><li>A surprising outcome: many people approached Lisa saying that they had similar situations.</li><li>A powerful moment that showed Lisa why advocating for mental wellness was the right path.</li><li>Some of the other blessings that have come from Lisa and Emily’s situation.</li></ul> Tweetables:“I didn’t care who knew at that point. I wanted everybody to know because I need as much help as humanly possible.” — Lisa Squier [0:09:21]“The fact that it did not work is proof to me that it was not supposed to.” —  Lisa Squier [0:10:47]“Trust is a huge, huge, huge thing in our family. If you don’t have that, you don’t have anything.” — Lisa Squier [0:17:08]“Anger means action.” — Lisa Squier [0:29:58]“Just ask the hard questions.” — Lisa Squier [0:41:34] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:<a href="http://www.kevinhinesstory.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kevin Hines</a><a href="https://twitter.com/KevinHinesStory" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kevin Hines on Twitter</a> <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120722/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Living Out Loud</a>

Suicide Attempt: A Mother's Experience with Lisa Squier

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