Hopeology

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Imagine being uprooted from your homeland as a child, thrust into an entirely new culture without the ability to communicate. This was the reality for Tomoko, whose heartfelt journey from Japan to the United States unfolds before us. Joining us as she shares her narrative of culture shock, adjustment, and the power of resilience. Her experiences are a beacon for anyone grappling with change, illustrating that with self-compassion and mindfulness, we can find a path to inner peace and growth.
As our conversation with Tomoko deepens, we explore the thorny pathways of healing from trauma. She bravely recounts her own steps toward recovery, emphasizing the pivotal role of shifting perspectives through mindfulness and the additional complexities introduced by parenthood. Tomoko's insights are a testament to the human spirit's remarkable ability to heal and transform, offering hope to those touched by similar challenges. Her personal evolution is not just inspiring; it's a guidepost for others on the journey of healing, highlighting the importance of calming the nervous system and finding fulfillment in helping others.
Wrapping up this profound episode, Tomoko's dedication to community service and her entrepreneurial spirit come to light. Her work with Spill the Tea Cafe supports the LGBTQ and gender-diverse community, illuminating how her own resilience now fuels her passion for aiding others. Listeners are encouraged to engage with Tomoko's story and share their own tales of overcoming adversity. As we anticipate the release of her upcoming book, her journey stands as a reminder that every challenge we face is an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient self.

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Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast
Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Imagine the profound difference a lifetime of therapeutic support could make for those who've grown up in foster care. That's the mission at the heart of A Home Within, where Emily Yang and Candice Simonds join us to reveal the inner workings of their program. With a network of over 500 volunteer therapists, they've created a sanctuary for healing that transcends traditional limitations, offering lifelong therapy to foster care alumni regardless of age or income. As they mark their 30th year, discover how they empower therapists with professional development and a robust clinical consultation framework, all while nurturing resilience and hope in long-lasting therapeutic relationships.
Our conversation focuses on the dedication of A Home Within's therapists and sustaining the growth of local chapters like New York City, Portland, and Los Angeles. We discuss the intricate balance of responsibilities that prevent burnout and the open doors for even retired therapists to contribute their wisdom.
We discuss the partnership with the University of San Francisco's foster care research group, which ensures that their services are ever-evolving to meet client needs.
Dive into the heart of their unique mental health services approach, which gracefully steps away from the shackles of progress-based reimbursement systems.
Wrapping up our inspiring session, Emily and Candice share the wellsprings of hope that drive them: the strength of community ties and the powerful narratives of those involved with A Home Within. The organization's ambitious goal of expanding their volunteer base to celebrate their 30th year reminds us all of the profound impact of kindness and compassion. If you're a therapist eager to join this transformative community or just someone passionate about the magic of sustained support, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to witness the cultivation of hope and connection.
Website: https://www.ahomewithin.org/
IG: @ahomewithin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-home-within/about/

Information on where you can find us.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast
Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Imagine growing up with a parent struggling with schizophrenia—how would it shape your life and career choices? Chrissy Ames Cotto, a licensed marriage and family therapist, joins us to share her deeply personal and transformative journey. From her challenging adolescent years to her path of self-healing through therapy, Chrissy's story is a testament to resilience and the power of hope. This episode opens a window into the human experiences that fuel the therapeutic process, helping us to connect more deeply with our emotional battles and triumphs.
We also unpack the principles of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and the significant role mindfulness plays in cultivating resilience. Chrissy discusses the fine line between maintaining an optimistic outlook and falling into the trap of toxic positivity, urging us to respect our feelings and set healthy boundaries. Through her insights, we learn how staying present can help us navigate even the toughest moments, making room for growth and a more hopeful perspective on life’s challenges.
What does forgiveness look like, especially when it feels impossible? Chrissy delves into radical acceptance, discussing how acknowledging our feelings is crucial to the healing journey. We explore the complexities of letting go of resentment, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the importance of self-forgiveness. To cap it off, Chrissy emphasizes the power of gratitude and reframing our perspectives to foster hope and personal resilience. This conversation is a true guide to embracing growth, healing, and a brighter outlook amidst life’s adversities.
Chrissy's Website: https://www.hopegrowthhealing.com/

Information on where you can find us.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast
Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Join us on this episode of Hopeology as we sit down with Dr. Max Kusovitsky, a psychoanalyst from the New York/New Jersey tri-state area. Dr. Kusovitsky peels back the layers of psychodynamic therapy, debunking myths about Freudian and Jungian practices, and reveals how modern techniques uncover unconscious thoughts to facilitate genuine healing and transformation. Discover how meaningful therapeutic work goes beyond surface-level issues to foster resilience and authenticity.
How do we balance fostering hope with the risk of it becoming unrealistic? Our discussion ventures into the delicate boundaries of hope, using examples like grandiose fantasies to highlight the need for empathy and respect in therapy. Drawing from Rogerian theory, Christina emphasizes the importance of unconditional positive regard and tailoring therapeutic approaches to each person's unique circumstances. Dr. Kusovitsky provides insights into the nuanced role of hope in therapy, marking the fine line between beneficial optimism and harmful delusion.
We also explore the intricate dance between resilience and hope in the quest for personal growth. Resilience acts as a shield against life's adversities, while hope serves as the North Star guiding individuals toward their dreams. Through engaging anecdotes and practical examples, we unravel the transformative journey from a fabricated self to an authentic one. Learn how understanding unconscious desires and setting realistic goals can lead to profound personal transformation, and how practitioners can nurture these qualities for true healing and growth. Tune in for a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between resilience, hope, and authenticity in psychodynamic therapy.
More info: meaningfultherapy.org

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Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast
Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Today we hear from Symone. She speaks about her mental health journey, and how she was able to break unhelpful generational cycles. We talk about relationships and navigating dating. She also shares how she has found resilience through being an entrepreneur, learning from failure, being okay with sitting in discomfort, and finding the strength to verbalize her needs.

“I was a seed, and I blossomed into a little flower.” - Symone
Follow Symone on Instagram at @poeticsymone
TW: Talks about SA.

Information on where you can find us.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast
Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.