Finding Your Way Through Therapy

Ever found yourself so engrossed in a stand-up comedy performance that you forgot about your worries? That’s the magical therapeutic power of laughter, which we explore with our guest, the hilarious stand-up comedian Brad Mastrangelo. Brad shares amusing anecdotes from his life and his unexpected journey into comedy, starting with a dare that led him onto the stage. You're in for a treat as we get an insider's view into his life and hear some of Brad's funniest jokes.

Comedy is not just about making people laugh, it is also about being sensitive to the audience's feelings and perspectives. Brad gives us a peek into the art of reading a room and adjusting his material accordingly. We also explore the evolving boundaries of what is considered offensive and the fine balance between humor and sensitivity. Together, we unpack the importance of not taking ourselves too seriously and the role politics plays in dividing people.

But, it's not all about the laughs. We switch gears to engage in a thought-provoking discussion about Canadian history, exploring the relationship between French and English Canadians. Drawing from his own experiences, Brad shares how understanding and accepting what we dislike in others can lead to self-acceptance. We wrap up the episode on a high note, discussing comedy therapy and how Brad’s upcoming shows offer an opportunity to connect through humor. So, are you ready for a laugh-filled journey packed with insight, humor, and wit? Join us in our delightful chat with Brad Mastrangelo - where every chuckle teaches you something new.

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Unearth the profound wisdom as we reconvene with the Mental Men, an insightful group who've made their mark on our show. The conversation between Pat Rice, Robert Cherney, Andrew Kang, and Dennis Sweeney is a treasure chest, brimming with the rich experiences of seasoned therapists who share their pearls of wisdom about the importance of mentorship in shaping the future of therapy. We delve into the differences in practices between various generations of therapists, peeling back the layers to reveal how these disparities can influence the future of therapeutic teaching and practice.

Journey with us as we dissect the significance of community support and mutual learning in our quest to evolve as therapists. Feel firsthand the power of peer groups, consultations, and supervision groups, as they nurture openness and foster learning. Tune in to hear our personal stories about our learning journeys and the ways we've shared knowledge with our peers, students, and how kindness, patience, and gratitude in therapy can weave together to form a strong therapeutic alliance.

We close by examining the importance of humility, continuous learning, and embracing imperfection in our profession. Be empowered by insights on how making peace with our mistakes can open doors to personal and professional growth. Also, tune in to hear about the power of self-control, the art of letting go, and being authentic in therapy. Our esteemed guests elaborate on how self-disclosure can pave the way for deeper and more genuine relationships with patients. Listen in to this engaging, thought-provoking episode and gain a fresh perspective on therapy from seasoned professionals in the field. Consider this an open invitation to enter the minds of the Mental Men, and partake in a nourishing feast of knowledge and insights.

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Today, we join forces with Jenny Helms, an accomplished therapist and owner of Kansas' largest mental health private practice, to traverse the labyrinth of mental health and therapy. In an enthralling conversation, Jenny lays bare her awe-inspiring journey, her notable work in mental health, and her undying resolve to heal trauma and nurture healthier relationships. Connect with us as we both recount our shared experiences of relocating from our original homes and laying down roots in new communities.

Throughout our engaging conversation, we unpack the importance of therapy, shattering the common misconceptions and highlighting the significance of establishing a secure connection with your therapist. Join us as we explore the spectrum of therapy options, emphasizing the pivotal role of feeling secure and connected with your therapist. We also take a deep look at the complexities of trauma healing and the essential role of active participation in your therapy voyage.

In an insightful discussion, we probe into the effect of various factors such as diet, environment, and physical activity on mental health. We also draw a clear line between therapy and coaching, demonstrating the nuances that distinguish the two. As we wrap up, Jenny offers a sneak peek into her promising new virtual coaching group and an upcoming project. Tag along with us in this enriching conversation as we unearth valuable insights about mental health and treatment. Tune in, learn, laugh, and let's unravel the world of mental health together.

You can go here for her website and her new group coaching here.

Her TikTok can be found here.

Her Instagram is found here.

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What would you do if you were forced to confront a dark chapter from your past after 15 years? Join us as Lynn Kee, a survivor and embodiment of resilience, opens up about her painful journey towards recovery from childhood sexual abuse and addiction. Lynn dives deep into the legal repercussions she navigated, illustrating how the justice system can, unfortunately, contribute to secondary trauma for survivors.

Lynn's narrative is a powerful testament to survival and courage. She recounts the chilling moment she encountered her offender, despite having a lifetime stay away order, shedding light on the emotional turmoil and legal complexities involved in such situations. But there's more. Lynn also discusses her struggle with addiction and how navigating the healthcare system became a tumultuous journey layered with additional challenges. She underscores the crucial role of trauma-informed care and the urgent need for specialty case management services for those dealing with similar circumstances.

Finally, we delve into a heartening discussion about AJ's Way, a beacon of hope in the form of a non-profit organization being set up in remembrance of Lynn's sister, Amanda Hernandez. This initiative aims to support others embarking on their recovery journey. This episode is a riveting collision of trauma, addiction, and legal implications, shining a light on the often overlooked perspectives of survivors. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn, empathize, and grow alongside Lynn's inspiring story.

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden struggles that first responders face on a daily basis? We sit down with Keith Hanks, a retired firefighter EMT from Massachusetts, Scot Ruggles, a former football coach and actor, Corey Moss, the co-director and producer of the documentary 'First Responders in Crisis'. We delve into their experiences, shedding light on the mental health struggles they contend with, and how they find resilience amidst the challenges. We also pay homage to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line.

On this journey, we unpack the importance of mental wellbeing in the lives of those who are often seen as invincible. Keith, Scot, and Corey share their personal journeys with mental health, discussing various therapy modalities and coping strategies they have found beneficial. We take a moment to emphasize the need for regular mental health checkups, in similar fashion to annual physicals. We also discuss the documentary 'First Responders in Crisis', a critical documentary that brings the real, raw, and vulnerable experiences of these brave individuals to the forefront.

In addressing the elephant in the room, we tackle the stigma of mental health, especially in the first responder community. We explore the "tough guy" mentality and its impact on mental health, with insights drawn from Gabor Maté's idea of doing certain jobs to "repair our past".

So, tune in, engage, and let's spark a discussion on the critical issue of mental health among first responders. We believe in the power of shared stories and experiences to drive change and break stigmas. Let this podcast episode be a stepping stone in that journey.

"First Responders In Crisis" will be released October 3rd, 2023 and the trailer is available here.

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What if understanding the unspoken language of therapy could revolutionize your healing process? In this reverse episode, your guides, Lisa Mustard, from the podcast "The Therapy Show" , and I take you on a fascinating journey through the world of therapy. Our candid conversations aim to demystify the intricacies of therapy, from recognizing your gut instinct when choosing a therapist to the potent impact of unconditional positive regard in a therapeutic relationship. We dissect how discomfort can be an essential part of growth and how shame can facilitate vital dialogues with your therapist.

Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process, and we delve into the importance of a therapist who can tailor their approach to your unique needs. We'll also debunk the myth of quick fixes and emphasize the value of consistent, patient work in therapy. Together, we explore the transformational power of the therapeutic relationship and the profound personal growth that can come from being truly seen and heard by a therapist. We also discuss the intriguing dynamic of therapist-client relationships and how they can offer mutual benefit.

As an added bonus, we talk about the importance of surrounding yourself with good friendships and nurturing therapeutic relationships for personal growth. We also explore the Atomic Habits approach of tracking accomplishments, providing you with actionable insights to apply in your own life. We'll also introduce you to a 30-day journal, Empower Your Mind, designed to guide you on your journey to mental clarity. Finally, I share some exciting news about an upcoming documentary on first responders in crisis situations, shedding light on their crucial role. Join us for this transformative episode, as we illuminate the path to emotional healing and personal growth. You won't want to miss it!

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Are you ready to embark on a journey of wisdom, growth and self-discovery? This episode, we're joined by the ‘mental men’ - Pat Rice, Dr. Robert Cherney, Dennis Sweeney, and Andrew Kang - four inspiring mentors who share their experiences and insights as psychotherapists. We converse about their diverse career trajectories and their perspectives on the therapy process, especially in treating those in recovery and de-stigmatizing mental health care. Their unique stories and experiences provide a rich tapestry of insight, inspiring us to look at mental health and healing in a new light.

We explore how mentorship plays a critical role in therapy, as our mentors guide us, inspire us and help us understand ourselves better. We share personal stories - from Steve's experience with Bob and Dennis to Pat's metaphorical lesson from his last therapist. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and learning to ask the right questions. We also explore the benefits of brain-based interventions and how they have the potential to revolutionize therapy.

In the final part of our conversation, we delve into the essence of learning, healing, and community in therapy. We discuss the evolution of EMDR over the years, the effectiveness of virtual EMDR, and the importance of finding mentors and peers who understand the unique experience of doing therapy. We wrap up our conversation by expressing our gratitude to the mental men for sharing their wisdom and invite you to join us for the next season of the podcast. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the therapeutic journey, the importance of mentorship, and the value of community in healing and growth.

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You won't want to miss our eye-opening chat with Maegan Visconti, the former dancer who danced her way into the world of dance movement therapy. Let her inspiring journey move you as she leaps fearlessly into the trials and triumphs of launching her own private practice - all while juggling wedding planning and house hunting. Find out how she copes with stress and keeps her life in balance, turning to therapy as much-needed maintenance during even the most joyful life changes.

Ever wondered about the inside workings of a private therapy practice? Maegan busts some myths and shares a raw, real look at the benefits and hurdles that come with the territory. You'll hear all about the crucial role of networking, boundaries setting, and how to pick the right clients. She also takes us behind the scenes of her unique approach to therapy, revealing how body language and micro-expressions help her understand her clients better.

Maegan’s journey is not just about dance or therapy, but a constant evolution, a testament to personal and professional growth. As she talks about the constant process of reinventing oneself and the importance of setting goals, you'll be inspired to embrace your own challenges and use them as motivation. Her transition from dancer to therapist is a valuable lesson on career reflections and choice considerations that are often overlooked. And just when you think it can't get any more interesting, she leaves you hanging with a teaser about her favorite episode. Join us for this invigorating conversation, and let's dance through therapy with Maegan Visconti.

You can reach Maegan here.

You can find American Dance Therapy here.

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Ever felt the grip of overwhelming stress after a traumatic event? On today's episode, your host Steve Bisson walks you through his own personal journey of healing from a distressing flight experience, offering a raw and authentic view into his emotional world post-incident. Tune in as Steve discusses his six-month progress, shedding light on his coping mechanisms, therapy techniques, and the importance of timely intervention to prevent a drift into post-traumatic stress disorder.

On the second leg of our conversation, we navigate the complex waters of acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorders, dissecting their unique characteristics, impacts, and durations. With a mix of personal stories and professional insights, Steve helps unravel these mental health conditions, making this episode a must-listen if you've ever been curious about the differences and similarities. Additionally, we touch upon his family's journey post-incident, offering a broader perspective on the impact of trauma on one's immediate social circle. Embark on this enlightening journey with us as we explore how professional help can significantly alter the course of recovery after traumatic events.

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Picture this: You're a first responder, racing against the clock to save lives, and the stress, trauma, and emotional toll are building up. How do you cope? This episode features a frank, heart-to-heart discussion with Jay Ball, a sergeant with the Framingham Police Department, and Brian Harkins, a firefighter in Stoughton, Massachusetts, who bravely open up about the mental health challenges faced by first responders.

Together, we blow the whistle on the stigma surrounding mental health and the importance of peer support. As we navigate through their personal experiences, we offer insights on how to change the culture within departments, the significance of leadership, and the power of informal debriefing. Brian, drawing from his own journey, offers an inside look at how he faced his struggles and now assists others in doing the same.

Finally, we address the often overlooked aspect of maintaining a life outside of work and the role of loved ones in supporting a first responder's mental health. From exploring non-traditional therapy options to breaking down stigmas, we aim to empower our invaluable first responders to seek help when needed. So join us, as we stand with our heroes, addressing critical issues and exploring ways to improve mental health support for those who dedicate their lives to public safety.

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