Things You Learn in Therapy

Unlock the hidden strengths of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with our special guest, Dr. Michael Alcée. In our latest episode, we promise to change the way you perceive OCD by highlighting the unique gifts and deep emotional layers often overshadowed by the diagnosis. Gain insights into Dr. Alcée's mission to humanize this condition and discover how understanding the person behind the disorder can lead to more compassionate and effective therapy.
We explore the intense and complex emotions experienced by those with OCD, challenging the one-dimensional focus of traditional therapies like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). By reflecting on historical figures such as Charles Darwin, who showcased remarkable creativity alongside OCD tendencies, Dr. Alcée introduces the concept of "negative capability" — the ability to tolerate ambiguity and mystery — as a therapeutic tool. Through empathy and a broader emotional approach, this episode shines a light on the richness of human experience in those with OCD, making a case for a balanced treatment that includes both exposure and emotional exploration.
Listen as we unravel real-life examples and diverse manifestations of OCD that compel us to rethink our approach to treatment. From contamination fears to relationship anxieties, Dr. Alcée and I discuss strategies for sitting with uncertainty and understanding the deeper emotional context behind compulsive behaviors. Reframe your perspective on OCD, seeing it not just as a challenge but as a "frenemy" offering valuable messages, ultimately advocating for a therapy approach that supports and appreciates those who think and feel deeply. Don’t miss this eye-opening and compassionate take on OCD that promises hope and understanding for sufferers and therapists alike.
To learn more about Dr. Alcée, find his website here: Michael Alcée, Ph.D. | Psychotherapy in Tarrytown, NY (michaelalcee.com) or Michael Alcee (michael-alcee.com) or email him at:
[email protected]
If you, or someone you know, is having mental health challenges and is in need of assistance, please contact 988.
This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast
Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]
If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

What if the way we label our life experiences is holding us back from true growth? Join us as we explore this compelling question with the refreshingly honest Maureen Clancy. Her unique perspective invites us to look beyond the binary labels of 'good' and 'bad' and embrace the full spectrum of life’s experiences. Alongside my research assistant, Sarah, we unpack Maureen's insightful approach, highlighting how this mindset shift can significantly impact both personal and professional growth, especially within the realm of therapy.
The episode also delves into the pressures therapists face in maintaining a façade of perfection. Maureen's vulnerability and authenticity resonate deeply, encouraging us to embrace our own struggles. We discuss the importance of presenting a calm, regulated presence to clients and how this can be a powerful tool in the therapy room. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just embarking on your journey of personal development, Maureen's wisdom offers a fresh perspective full of grace and authenticity. Tune in to celebrate the beauty of realness both in therapy and beyond.

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Hey Listener! I am glad you are here. I've recently had several conversations with parents of teens and so I went back and listened to some episodes on Kids These Days that I could share again here. This was one of my FAVORITE episodes and although we talk about the power of the pandemic, I am finding so much of what Jody shared from this episode to still be true today. I hope you can find some nuggets of truth in your life by listening in to this replay episode from Kids These Days.
Have you ever watched a teenager you care about struggle through the tangled web of relationships during these unprecedented times? That's where we dive in today, with the invaluable guidance of Jody McQuitty, a seasoned licensed clinical social worker. Together, we unpack the heightened challenges teens face amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, from intensifying depression and anxiety to the erosion of deep, meaningful connections. We discuss strategies to foster genuine interactions and offer practical tools for nudging our youth towards healthier conversations that go beyond the surface, fortifying friendships, and reinforcing their sense of self in a world that all-too-often demands conformity.
For parents feeling adrift in a sea of doubt on how to support their teenagers, this episode casts a lifeline. We tackle the pervasive issue of negative self-talk that plagues so many young minds, sharing actionable advice for helping teens separate damaging fiction from their authentic truths. I reflect on my own journey of realizing the power of positive self-talk, not just for our kids, but for ourselves as role models. We provide resources for further support, ensuring you're not alone in this journey to nurture an environment where every stumble is a step towards growth and where open arms await the tales of the day, both triumphant and trying. Join us for a conversation that aims to light the path for parents and teens alike during these complex times.

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Ever feel like playtime with your child is a struggle rather than a joy? Do you grapple with taking a backseat and letting your child lead? This episode might just change your perspective on play. We sit down with child play expert, Colleen Martinez, and take a deep look into the world of child directed play. We share our own initial resistance to this method and how it significantly improved our interactions with children over time. Together, we unpack the powerful principles of child-centered play therapy and its overlap with parent-child interaction therapy.
As we journey through the podcast, we delve into the common hiccups that you might face when allowing a child to command the play. We identify four key areas that might block a successful child-led play experience: asking too many questions, feeling the need to entertain, competing, and exerting control. Instead of these, we propose embracing observation, praising simple comments like "I see what you're doing". We also present an easy-to-follow model for setting empathetic and accepting boundaries. We encourage you to experiment with just 15 minutes of child-led play a week - you might be surprised at the positive changes it brings!
We wrap up the episode by focusing on the pivotal ACT model for limit-setting and its application in parenting. It's not just about enforcing rules, but providing healthier alternatives for children. We stress the importance of understanding and respecting a child's needs and desires while still setting appropriate boundaries. Lastly, we delve into the benefits of child-directed play for children - it's a safe and nurturing platform for self-expression and emotional processing. So, prepare to tune in, learn and evolve your playtime experiences with your little ones. It might just transform your relationship with your child in a beautiful and meaningful way. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com

Ever wondered why your inner dialogue often seems to sabotage your best efforts? Discover the origins and influences of negative self-talk with Dr. Beth Trammell and her guest, licensed clinical social worker Laura Sgro. Laura shares her expertise on how comparison, perfectionism, and people-pleasing mold our inner voices, and why compassionate self-talk is better than mere positive affirmations. She even shares personal anecdotes—including her stint in an acapella group—to highlight the pervasive nature of self-talk in our daily lives.

Explore how past experiences, societal pressures, and even well-meaning parents contribute to a damaging inner critic. Learn why our brains have a natural tendency to skew negative in an attempt to protect us and how this can impede personal growth. Understand the subtle ways parents might inadvertently instill perfectionism and negative self-talk in their children, and how these patterns can persist into adulthood, causing long-lasting impacts on mental health.

You can also learn actionable steps to take toward breaking free from negative self-talk. Laura and Dr. Trammell delve into practical strategies for challenging ingrained beliefs and fostering self-compassion. Discover the importance of treating yourself with the same kindness you'd extend to a friend, and how mindfulness can help in building a more compassionate and empowered inner dialogue. Whether you're struggling with intrusive thoughts or simply looking to improve your mental well-being, this episode offers valuable insights and tools to cultivate a healthier mindset.

This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcast

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, please contact 988 or seek a treatment provider in your area.

To contact or learn more about Laura and her practice, visit: https://laurasgrolcsw.com/

Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected]

If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6

Support the show

www.bethtrammell.com