The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy (Curt Widhalm, LMFT and Katie Vernoy, LMFT)

Negotiating Sliding Scale Curt and Katie chat about the pros and cons of sliding your fee for therapy services. We look at the theories around fee-setting, sliding fee scales, and conversations around money. We discuss what actually makes a difference in determining if clients are invested and will benefit from your services. We also dig into the laws, ethics, and practicalities if you choose to offer sliding scale in your practice.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Feedback from our conversation with Tiffany McLain Clinical theories on how fee impacts the clinical relationship The different ways that people enter into therapy, different financial situations, etc. A more nuanced conversation about sliding scale fee Freud’s views on having direct conversations with clients on fee How clinical orientation can impact how therapists view fee-setting The idea that fee must be set at an “uncomfortable enough” that clients invest in therapy How fee paid impacts attending the last session Different types of investments that might impact how much people benefit of treatment Practical ways to assess what fee would be in the sweet spot for sliding scale (e.g., written out scale, financials, etc.) Do therapists show up differently for clients who pay more or less? How fees average out among larger caseloads Incorporating outcome measures and practice-based evidence to assess whether you are showing up differently for clients who pay more or less Mythology around what we have to do and what is best to do Laws and ethics, practical considerations Usual and Customary fees Advertised fees Philosophy related to how you set your fees The impact of insurance on our profession related to sliding scale Ethical codes on fee setting related to services provided and client ability to pay Models of subsidy for mental health services The need for a standard justification The risks for insurance fraud related to fee-setting and accepting copays The ability to adjust usual and customary fee as needed as long as it doesn’t violate state law What we have to do and what the softer, virtue ethics might recommend The importance of accurate billing and justification The tension between the equity argument and the practicalities of business Are you unfairly treating clients who are paying less? The need for pro bono work, but not sliding scale work The need for clinician-led discussions and opt-in from the client Check your insurance contracts, advertise your fees correctly, written basis for a range of fees Options for sliding scale Other models for addressing access How to create a sliding scale practically Why you need to identify what you need to make on average per session Moving your sliding scale or pro bono work outside of your practice Our recommendations for Open Path Psychotherapy Collective and Give an Hour

How to Stay in Your Lane to Support Diversity and Inclusion An interview with Dr. Joy Cox, PhD, on tapping into the strength of community and genuine relationships to understand and address systemic oppression. Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Joy about intersectionality, the harmful stories we can tell ourselves about people who are different from us, and what we can do to best support diversity and inclusion in all the spaces we inhabit. We also address why it is important to do some of this work privately (rather than working it out publicly through statements on social media). It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Dr. Joy Cox, PhD Dr. Joy Cox is a body justice advocate using her skill set in research and leadership to foster social change through the promotion of fat acceptance and diversity and inclusion. With 37 years living as a fat, Black cisgendered woman and 7+ years of professional experience under her belt, Dr. Cox draws on her own experiences and skill set to amplify the voices of those most marginalized in society, bringing attention to matters of intersectionality addressing race, body size, accessibility, and “health.” Joy has been featured on several podcasts and media productions such as Food Pysch with Christy Harrison, Nalgona Positivity Pride with Gloria Lucas, Fat Women of Color with Ivy Felicia, and Huffington Post’s piece, “Everything You Know About Obesity is Wrong.” She also just authored her first book, Fat Girls in Black Bodies: Creating Communities of Our Own. She is the voice of an overcomer, looking to propel others into a place of freedom designed by their desires. In this episode we talk about: What Dr. Joy is putting out into the world Intersectionality and bias, stigma How to take an intersectional approach The importance of genuine relationships in understanding others Discussing the panel discussion in the conference when addressing learning about others The harm of putting work on individuals with lived experience Why and when you should pay for expert consultation The challenge of googling to learn (when it works and when to seek expert guidance) The importance of saying no when someone is asking you to become a spokesperson The exponential impact of intersectionality of marginalized identities How intersectional identities compound to create narratives Anything that is heavily stigmatized in society – racism is not far behind it Knowledge without learning to implement Why you should find your lane and move accordingly How to identify what you can and should do to support inclusion The importance of identifying where to do the work, it doesn’t have to be public Why individuals need to learn themselves, understand their heart, and identify who they are Getting it right is better than getting it fast Having the important conversations and checking in with the people who matter The unreasonable expectation to have an opinion on everything The benefits of community with each person staying in their lane Creating community that includes all people and the strength that provides Pushing back on the idea that everyone has to be able to do all of the roles We need to change how we think and we need to change how we feel to uncover more space than we knew was available for all people Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Dr. Joy Cox's Website Jabbie App Dr. Joy on Instagram: FreshOutTheCocoon Dr. Joy on Twitter Dr. Joy's Book: Fat Girls in Black Bodies Creating a New Space of Belonging The Care Bear Stare

How Much Autonomy Do Therapy Clients Deserve? Balancing client autonomy with therapist skill Curt and Katie chat about client autonomy. We look at what patient autonomy is and what therapists need to understand about this very complex topic. We explore how therapists can overstep or abdicate their role in supporting their clients in making decisions. We also look at what true informed consent is and the dimensions of client autonomy. This is an ethics continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about client autonomy Therapists are faced with balancing their professional knowledge with the needs and desires of clients. At the core of this issue is the principle ethic of client autonomy. How much autonomy do therapists need to give clients? What do therapists do when clients don’t have the capacity for autonomy in the first place? This workshop explores the considerations that therapists must face when balancing the needs of clients with professional mental health services.hen What is patient or client autonomy in mental health? ·      Clients making decisions about their treatment based on solid information and an understanding of that information ·      There is a debate related to whether we defer to clients’ decisions no matter what versus standing in the role of professional therapist What do therapists need to understand about client autonomy? ·      There is a lot of complexity and nuance related to therapist responsibility as professionals versus when therapists can become too paternalistic ·      There is a not a lot of discussion within the ethics codes related to client autonomy, they are usually in the preamble, so it is more important while also be less discussed ·      Freedom (or liberty) to make choices versus agency (or capacity) to understand the choices ·      Therapists need to clarify for clients the options and make sure they can make informed decisions How is informed consent related to client autonomy? ·      If clients don’t know what their therapists are doing, do they have client autonomy? ·      Evaluation of whether someone has the capacity to make treatment decisions can be impacted by bias, but is the role of the therapist within the mental health treatment ·      We don’t want to equate autonomy with autonomous decision-making Dimensions of client autonomy and the therapist’s responsibility ·      Decisional dimension – being able to plan and make decisions about their mental health treatment ·      Executive dimension - being able to follow through on the plans made ·      Therapists need to be able to step forward and provide additional support to clients to bring them back to autonomy or hold a line in treatment that will and will not be offered ·      Informed dimension - understanding the difference between informed consent and informed assent and being able to give instructions ahead of time if have a mental health crises ·      Looking at a “Mental Health Advanced Directive” – one example is the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (see the resources section in the show notes). Paternalism and client autonomy ·      Not all “paternalism” is wrong – when clients are unable to care for self, they may need some paternalism to be able to be safe or get the treatment that they need ·      Asymmetrical versus libertarian paternalism is discussed ·      The importance of understanding your own bias and how the way you frame options can be manipulative Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/  

Curt and Katie talk about the Corona Virus scare. We look at how to take care of ourselves, our clients, and our businesses during the current outbreak. We also look at the mental health impacts and the legal and ethical responsibilities we have to our clients.          It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The current concerns about the Corona Virus The impacts of the virus on therapists How to identify our responsibilities as therapists Info from the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control on COVID-19 The reactions that we are seeing in society as mental healthcare professionals Looking at practical steps to increase safety in your office How to think about your cancellation policy Incorporating telehealth into your practice The complexity of insurance companies covering telehealth session Xenophobia toward individuals of Asian descent, and the mental health impact on these clients The impact on the individuals (or their caregivers) who have compromised immune systems of needing to remain home or in isolation The legal and ethical considerations When we can tell our clients that they must stay home and when it could be discrimination The problems with self-quarantines The importance of therapists refraining from contributing to the anxiety and sharing accurate information from reputable sources

What Should Not Be Normalized in Our Profession? Curt and Katie chat about a discussion that came up in the Modern Therapists Facebook group – What is something that you wish other therapists would stop pretending is normal. We explore the normalization of waiting until license renewal for CE, balancing accountability without chastising clients, and acknowledging countertransference in therapy. We also tackle the high costs of specialized training, the problems of treating children in isolation without family involvement, and the systemic issue of unpaid internships and low therapist wages.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we explore frustrations modern therapists have with our profession Curt and Katie dive into some of the things that therapists normalize that maybe they shouldn’t, gathered from discussions in the Modern Therapist Facebook Group. What are struggles that are normalized for therapists? ·      Waiting until right before license renewal to complete continuing education (CE) ·    Not figuring out the difference between holding clients accountable vs. chastising or bullying them ·     Failing to acknowledge countertransference and true emotions in therapy ·      The high costs of specialized training ·      Not recognizing the importance of family involvement in child therapy ·      The impact of unpaid internships and low wages for therapists Is the therapy profession setting itself up for burnout and financial struggle? ·      Many therapists procrastinate CE requirements, leading to unnecessary stress. ·      Holding clients accountable is important, but it shouldn't come at the cost of rapport or shame. ·      Denying countertransference is unrealistic — therapists have emotions too! ·      Expensive training creates barriers to specialization, limiting accessibility. ·      Therapists treating children without involving family may not be setting up the child for success. ·      Unpaid internships and low wages continue to undervalue therapists’ work, making financial stability difficult. What can therapists do to improve their profession? ·      Plan CE credits early to avoid last-minute stress. ·      Frame accountability in a way that supports clients and aligns with their stated goals rather than chastises them. ·      Acknowledge emotions in therapy without making sessions about the therapist. ·      Seek out reasonably priced training options and advocate for more affordable education. ·      Encourage family involvement when working with children (when appropriate). ·      Push for industry-wide changes in pay and internship standards. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Family Therapy: Not Just for Kids - An Interview with Adriana Rodriguez, LMFT Curt and Katie interview Adriana Rodriguez, LMFT about the tendency of therapists (even Marriage and Family Therapists) to avoid working with couples and families. We talk about the challenges in working with groups rather than individuals, how to identify the most appropriate treatment unit, and the benefits of working with adult families. We also discuss the importance of assessing power, privilege, intersectionality, and global context when working with both individuals and families. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we look at relationship therapy Our friend, Adriana Rodriguez is returning to the podcast to talk about therapy for relationships, including couples and adult families. Why do therapists avoid working with families and only work with individuals?  ·      There seems to be an aversion to working with groups rather than individuals ·      Avoiding overstimulation and conflict ·      Concerns about a lack of training ·      Not seeing adult family therapy as a typical treatment unit ·      Insurance and the medical model suggest that treatment is for an individual ·      Individualistic society of western culture How can a therapist identify the most appropriate treatment unit? ·      Making sure to recognize that everyone has people that impact them ·      Working to identify the context and root causes of current concerns ·      Gathering the people around for accountability and vicarious healing ·      Identifying intergenerational transmission of trauma and of gifts What can therapists do to support their clients most effectively? ·      Understanding the systems within which clients move ·      Looking at privilege, power, marginalization, and intersectionality ·      Understanding what is typically missed in treatment: that the system needs to be addressed before change can really occur ·      Looking for opportunities to engage family members in treatment How can therapists better understand adult families? ·      Move away from compartmentalizing couples or family work ·      More in-depth genograms, with more context and self-reflection ·      Looking at how we interact with our clients and how we interact with the systems ·      Eco-map – the context around the client ·      Timeline – historic events happening during your client’s life around them ·      Incorporating accountability and compassion ·      Increasing understanding and compassion before inviting in the family members into session ·      Recognizing that many cultures have a strong focus and value related to family and honoring that in their healing process ·      Helping families and couples come together as “team” members rather than opponents Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Podcast Homepage Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Religious Trauma and High-Control Religion: An Interview with Anna Clark Miller, LPC, LMHC Curt and Katie interview Anna Clark Miller about religious trauma. We explore what religious trauma and high-control religions are. We look at common mistakes therapists can make when working with religious trauma survivors as well as what therapy and healing can look like for these folks. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about religious trauma and high-control religion We were interested to learn more about how therapists can support religious trauma survivors, so we reached out to an expert, Anna Clark Miller, to share her wisdom. What is religious trauma? ·      Complex trauma over a long period of time ·      Impacts to the nervous system ·      Traumatic beliefs about religion and the after life ·      Following rules and conforming to a religious group’s idea of how someone should live What mistakes do therapists make when working with religious trauma survivors? ·      Therapists becoming the client’s new spiritual authority ·      Clients using therapy to tell them how to think and live ·      Clients need to own themselves and their own minds, not work to please the therapist What does healing after leaving a “high control” religion look like? ·      The loss of so much, including social support, identity, etc. ·      Complex PTSD healing ·      How will I fit into the world? How will I talk with people? ·      Building hope for someone who is needing to completely remake their life and identity ·      The client needs to create a sense of safety within themselves ·      You can’t “rip off the Band-Aid” with leaving a high control religious group ·      Helping clients with their judgment around their emotions (starting with observation before judging if it is good or bad) ·      Working with clients to examine their beliefs (over time) What is included in the treatment for religious trauma survivors ·      Noticing one’s body ·      Exploring and reimagining healthy relationships ·      Identity work ·      Deconstruction of topics based on what the client is thinking, feeling, etc. ·      Addressing spiritual bypassing ·      Not just “mindfulness” due to concerns about secular psychology Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Bi+ Erasure An interview with Dr. Mimi Hoang, Ph.D., about Bi+ Affirmative therapy and what therapists often get wrong about working with Bi+ people. Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Mimi about how often Bi+ people are left out of the conversation (and training) regarding LGBTQ+ people, the consistent erasure and exclusion Bi+ people face, the biases that show up in the therapy room, and how therapists can better prepare themselves for working with the largest segment of the LGBTQ+ community. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Dr. Mimi Hoang, Ph.D. (she/her/hers), Psychologist, Author, and Activist Dr. Mimi Hoang is a nationally-recognized psychologist, educator, author, and grassroots activist specializing in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) and Asian Pacific Islander (API) communities. Since the 1990s, she has co-founded three organizations in Los Angeles for bisexual, pansexual, fluid, and other nonmonosexual (AKA "bi+") individuals, authored multiple publications, and earned a seat at the landmark 2013 White House Bisexual Community Roundtable. Dr. Mimi's steadfast leadership has earned her multiple awards, a feature in Jan Dee Gordon's LGBTQ of Steel photography book, mentions in Cosmopolitan and HuffPost, and being named “One of the Most Significant Women in the Bisexual Movement.” She currently works as a Staff Psychologist at Loyola Marymount University (LMU) Student Psychological Services, Professor of Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles, and is the creator of the "Bi on Life" self-empowerment series. Learn more at www.drmimihoang.com. In this episode we talk about: The tendency for conversations around LGBTQ+ training often leaves out information bisexuality Mimi’s story, including the organizations she has created to support people who are bisexual, pansexual, fluid, and other nonmonosexual individuals The challenge of identifying within a binary of gay or straight and heteronormativity What therapists often get wrong when working with Bi+ clients How likely it is that your client will come out to you The biases against bisexuality in the therapy room Misunderstanding, over simplification, quantification, and other problems in exploring sexuality with Bi+ people Bi-Phobia from the gay community and code switching to “fit in” The concept of Bi Erasure The reasons for Bi+ erasure and exclusion The doubt of existence of bisexuality The huge gap in psychotherapist education related to bisexuality The importance of getting more training on bisexuality Asking the sexual orientation question, exploring sexuality Neutralizing your language when talking about partners Best practices for treating Bi+ people

Curt and Katie talk about reimagining therapy, starting a #therapymovement, and pulling together a community to put on a conference It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Curt’s love of Legos and the ensuing overuse of this metaphor to describe using building blocks to be creative This conference we’re putting on and why we named it Therapy Reimagined The building blocks that are the foundation of therapy, but how we can use them creatively The individual differences that have been growing the diversity of the profession Sacrificial Helping Syndrome (Katie’s concept about how clinicians can sacrifice their own well-being for the work) How the system isn’t working – it relies on us burning out Why advocacy is important for our profession The irony and sadness about us going into the profession to be a different therapist and then becoming the burned-out therapist What it means when we burn out: lack of resources, mental health stigma, poorer outcomes Creating an action plan for how you will improve the profession Why strong business practices are important for all of us Having a big idea and carrying it through The importance of diversity and our commitment to have diverse faculty and diverse ideas at Therapy Reimagined 2018 How important it is to us to hear from you and develop this community around us for the #therapymovement A secret message from Katie at the very end Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Katie’s article on Sacrificial Helping Syndrome Katie’s writing about avoiding Sacrificial Helping Syndrome Dr. Ben Caldwell with Ben Caldwell Labs Mixing Modern Therapist live networking events – email us for info: events@therapyreimagined.com The conversations happening in Our Facebook Group first.therapyreimaginedconference.com Other Relevant Episodes: Our Therapy Reimagined speakers on the podcast - The Fight to Save Psychotherapy - Benjamin E. Caldwell What Therapists Get Wrong - Paul Gilmartin Social Media and Video Marketing for Therapists - Ernesto Segismundo Jr. Make Your Paperwork Meaningful - Maelisa Hall Be the CEO of your SEO - Perry Rosenbloom Becoming a Group Practice Owner - Maureen Werrbach Building Hope for the Next Generation of Therapists - Robin Andersen Crafting Your Authentic Message - Mercedes Samudio   Our event this year: The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!! Our new consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour  Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Pursuing Happiness as a Therapist: An interview with Stevon Lewis, LMFT Curt and Katie interview Stevon Lewis, LMFT, about how he makes his career more sustainable. We look at his current philosophies around low effort, alignment, and fun. We also explore how he was able to initially able temper his expectations, work through misaligned paths, and pivot when needed. Finally, we talk about what it looks like behind the scenes to pursue a number of different revenue and marketing streams. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about how to make a sustainable therapy career We invited Stevon Lewis back to talk about creating a sustainable career, even if it means pivoting and rebuilding your career or your brand. How can you build a positive and sustainable career as a therapist? ·      It’s important to assess your performance, your level of happiness, etc. ·      Don’t be afraid to pivot ·      Assess if you are working too hard or are misaligned with the work ·      Determine whether your unease is due to lack of skill or misalignment ·      Frame assessment based on practical evaluation versus moving to “I’m a failure” When can you actually make choices that serve you better as a therapist? ·      Initial career choices may not be as ideal as one would like ·      It is important to temper your expectations to your current situation ·      Many therapists start in community mental health and may not be able to choose who we see and what we do ·      Be flexible and open to working with less than ideal clients, identify the learning opportunities ·      There is a ramp up and a building up of a caseload and career that takes time ·      Understand that pivoting is part of the journey because we don’t know what we’re good at or what we’re going to like How do therapist influencers work effectively? ·      There can be a lot of effort behind the scenes ·      Delegating and contracting out elements of the work can be helpful ·      Efficiency is important to be able to do a bunch of different things to be successful ·      Stevon talks about how he does his “low effort” version of social media posting and interaction ·      Looking at the minimum effort for maximum result ·      Accept doing what you need to do to get the results you would like (not comparing to all others) Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Therapy with an Audience An interview with Doug Friedman, LCSW, the host of Your Mental Breakdown, on why he chose to record therapy sessions for his podcast. Curt and Katie talk with Doug about the logistics and benefits of publicly providing therapy. We also look at how podcasting can decrease stigma and open up flexibility to learn as a therapist (rather than rigidly holding to a modality or to an expert status that doesn’t allow for mistakes). It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Doug Friedman, LCSW Doug Friedman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Los Angeles. He has spent nearly 20 years working with adults, adolescents and families with issues ranging from depression and anxiety to substance abuse, bipolar disorder and PTSD. He has supervised programs in community mental health settings and he continues to provide clinical supervision to therapists in his private group practice, Clear Mind Full Heart. Doug is the creator and co-host of the mental health/entertainment podcast, Your Mental Breakdown. Doug received a Masters in Social Work from The Catholic University of America and a BA in Study of Religion from UCLA. Before becoming a psychotherapist, Doug worked for a music management company that oversaw bands like Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Beastie Boys, and Bonnie Raitt. Doug is also the artist and songwriter behind all the music heard on the podcast, Your Mental Breakdown. In this episode we talk about: Doug’s mission of normalizing therapy and decreasing mental health stigma The importance of learning as a therapist and exploring mistakes or alternatives The experience of being a therapist on a public-facing podcast Why Doug doesn’t hold a modality sacred How therapy serves the client as a focus for treatment The logistics of setting up the podcast (laws, ethics, etc.) Navigating the relationship with the client on the podcast (dual relationships, confidentiality) The benefit of recording sessions and reviewing them later Exploration of opportunities and different choices that we can make in the room Cohost rapport and trust, inquiry, love, disagreement, calling out The comfort level in being recorded for a podcast: shifting from one on one to a public audience Creating a system to keep the work of making the podcast sustainable Being vulnerable and authentic as a value Being an expert does not mean having the right answer in the room, but knowing how to find the answer and seek additional advice How other clients respond to Doug’s podcast The possibility of the public persona and “fame”

Curt and Katie talk about how to handle the drama that can happen at your work or school setting. We talk about when to take action and when it is more important to manage the logistics and protect your reputation and employability. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: What to do when your agency or your program closes out or there is DRAMA How it works within a school program that closes Making decisions when you have to face this type of crisis Making sure to get information to help you with your decision making Balancing supporting your peers and taking care of yourself How to do due diligence to move forward Understanding the motivations of all parties involved Looking out for your own best interest Navigating and understanding the rumor mill Understanding how rumors, drama, etc., can impact you personally Sorting through when you should stand up and advocate and when you keep your head down Creating an exit plan Reputation management The problem with getting frozen The caution required when you decide to stand up for someone else (especially when you don’t have all the information) Choosing your battles Protecting your own reputation and employability Managing your resume How the way you talk about what has happened will reflect on you Making sure to remain professional Discussing the reasons that Curt and Katie work for themselves Identifying when you can live with the drama and when you need to move on Handling logistics to take care of your needs Assessing what is worth it   Relevant Episodes Toxic Work Environments Interview Strategies for Therapists Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapist’s Group Therapy Reimagined 2019: Sign up here to get notified when the details are released. Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour   Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

An interview with Jeff Guenther, LPC, about how therapy has been whitewashed and biased for a very long time. Curt and Katie talk with Jeff about his efforts to use his privilege to increase inclusion and diversity and to shine a light on biases that we all hold.    It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Jeff Guenther, LPC Jeff Guenther, LPC, is a therapist in Portland, OR. He has been in private practice since 2005. Jeff is the creator and owner of Portland Therapy Center, a highly ranked therapist directory. He also hosts a podcast called Say More About That about trending mental health topics. Jeff has launched a new progressive therapist directory at TherapyDen that fights racism, homophobia, transphobia and all other forms of discrimination. Sign up for a profile at TherapyDen and get your first six months free. In this episode we talk about: Jeff’s entrepreneurship and his focus on creating access for mental health Therapy directories and how he came to identify the need to use the directory to fight against racism, transphobia, homophobia, etc. Using privilege for good and to support inclusion and access for mental health services Looking at the controversy in developing a progressive therapist directory The goal to be inclusive, not solely politically progressive White privilege and bias The problems with Psychology Today and how this directory is slowly seeming to respond and start addressing racial and gender diversity The white washing of therapy and the fight to increase access and diversity Understanding the bias that is being reinforced by Disney Movies How bias can show up in the therapy room, your marketing, and in your intake Addressing systemic bias The history of therapy and how it continues to influence bias Looking at how implicit bias can be addressed by individual therapists The biases that are less understood or addressed The responsibility of therapists to actively work toward societal inclusion The ability to change things in one generation

How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome to Leave Your Agency Job An interview with Patrick Casale, LCMHC, LCAS, about how impostor syndrome and other barriers can get in the way of therapists moving forward into private practice. Curt and Katie talk with Patrick about what it takes to make the leap from negative work situations and become a “therapist wizard.” We also look at lots of creative ideas on how to step into fear to confront impostor syndrome as well as how to build a private practice that’s right for you.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Patrick Casale, MA, LCMHC, LCAS Patrick currently works as a private practice coach and strategist and private practice owner. He lives in Asheville NC with his wife Ariel and two dogs, Hudson and Hazel. He’s worked in the helping profession since 2008. In the last 12 years, he’s worked in several different arenas in community mental health. From a qualified professional to the program director, he found himself constantly being promoted to middle management roles where he was able to see both sides of the coin. It was hard watching his staff work so hard for so little while trying to appease the powers that be who typically were out of touch with day-to-day operations. He has worked full time as a private practice therapist for the last three years. In those three years, he’s traveled to 8 different countries, taken lots of vacations, grown his business to a point where it feels easy and routine, and has helped other therapists in the area do the same. In this episode we talk about: The ideas around impostor syndrome and how it impacts therapists Common mistakes therapists make when moving from community mental health to private practice How therapists can consistently negatively evaluate their own competence Entrepreneurial anxiety and missteps based on lack of confidence The early messages and attachment issues that impact self-esteem, perception of competence Embracing fear to move forward, accepting that mistakes are inevitable Vulnerability and authenticity, perfectionism Taking power back through making impostor syndrome playful Looking at how different identities are impacted by “impostor syndrome” Conflicting and negative messages that therapists get Entitlement and pessimism from more seasoned clinicians Abundance versus scarcity mindset How to become a therapist wizard Moving from an agency to private practice The danger of staying in an agency when you’re at the point of no return The lack of specific numbers or exact instructions on when you should make the leap The importance of networking when building a private practice Ideas for overcoming anxiety and still move forward on starting your private practice The importance of having an exit plan and steps in place Making decisions on what is needed versus what is desired, what values can be considered The goals that are possible once you move into your own private practice Creativity in how you set up your practice Understanding what you need to set yourself up for success Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! https://casalecoaching.com/ Patrick’s All Things Private Practice Facebook group

It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Navigating the conference Geeking out over therapy Connecting with colleagues all over the world Survival Guide Tips: Plan to support your own stamina Pick speakers, not topics (don’t miss people this time around – they may not be around the next time) Go early to get good seats at the big talks Names we drop Bandura, both Becks, Chopra, Glasser, Loftus, Meichenbaum, Miller, Minuchin, Morisette, Siegel, Yalom, Zieg, Zimbardo Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. We’re going to be at Exhibitor Table #142 at the conference. Come visit us to meet us, hop on the podcast or livestream, and to take advantage of our giveaways and raffles. Learn about our exciting events for next year and sign up for opportunities to get extra special rates during our flash sale! Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/  

It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The definitions of self-care Legal and ethical codes require clinician self-care Why self-care is hard for therapists Active versus passive self-care Proactive versus reactive self-care Specific risks and strategies to overcome them Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Netflix Wine Napping Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/  

The Sky is Falling: How Therapists Can Protect Our Industry, Patient-Centered Care, and Our Businesses, An Interview with Dr. Ajita Robinson Curt and Katie interview Dr. Ajita Robinson about innovation within the mental health industry that could threaten therapists in private practice. We chat about Value Based Care in insurance, insurance credentialing companies, and big tech disruptors. We also talk with Dr. Ajita (an income strategist) about ways that therapists can diversify their income leveraging both their license AND their knowledge, to try to mitigate these risks to our businesses. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about how therapists can protect our profession With the changes to our industry, we thought it would be important to talk with Dr. Ajita Robinson, an income strategist and insurance expert, about how therapists can weather the storm.  What are the threats to the mental health industry? ·      Big tech companies innovating in our space, with a focus on efficiency ·      Value-based insurance billing ·      Credentialing and billing services (like Alma and Headway) moving us out of direct communication with insurance companies How can therapists leverage their skills for alternative revenue streams? ·      Understanding what other types of services can therapists provide ·      Clarifying when we’re leveraging our knowledge versus leveraging our license ·      Identifying problems that we’re best situated to solve ·      Entering the self-help industry How can therapists get started when they are ready to leverage alternative revenue? ·      Identifying the problem you solve rather than the transformation you want to provide ·      Understanding what your target client has already tried ·      Knowing what the barriers are for them to solve their problem ·      Clarifying who is the customer and who is the consumer ·      Contracting with schools, cities, etc. is possible for therapists to increase income ·      Accessing resources and experts to help you do what you need to do ·      Distinguishing when to start a separate business Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Dr. Ajita’s website Dr. Ajita Robinson’s book: The Gift Of Grief: A Practical Guide On Grief And Loss​ Facebook: facebook.com/drajita Instagram: instagram.com/dr.ajitarobinson LinkedIn: linkedin.com/ajitarobinson Facebook group: Purposeful & Profitable Therapist Community Purposeful and Profitable Summit in July Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Private Practice Planning for the Future of Mental Healthcare: An interview with Maureen Werrbach Post-Pandemic Practice Is AI Smart for Your Therapy Practice? Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/  

Curt and Katie talk about how to successfully navigate the changes that occur during the summer when you’re in private practice. We look at how to plan for the whole year, sync your vacations with your clients, get business maintenance done during the summer, and make sure you’re incorporating your own self-care. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The change of pace that often happens when the summer hits The importance of taking a bird’s eye view of the full year, rather than focusing month to month How to set your fees to address the time off and missed sessions during the year Planning your vacation at the same time that your clients will be out The need to lead by example, showing self-care and boundaries How to take advantage of down times, so that you are ready for the uptick when the fall hits The types of assessments that you can do on your practice during the summer How to move away from panic, by planning financially for the full year The MTSG challenge: Catch up on your notes in July Setting yourself up for a more lucrative practice with increasing fees or cleaning up practices Taking vacations and getting your practice vacation ready Vacation coverage and helping your practice stay responsive during your vacation The joy of implementing your systems during the slower times (because it takes time) The possibility of having a better schedule when the summer ends – assessing and moving to an ideal schedule after moving people around during the summer Getting training during the summer, so you can actually implement it deliberately Re-evaluating your personal routines and self-care/self-maintenance Putting some effort into getting content (social media, blog posts, marketing, etc.) planned out and created Capitalizing on the creative time out of the office Evaluating your practice and your business planning

In this episode we talk with Maureen Werrbach about all things Group Practice: What to consider when starting a group practice Business plans and finances How to shift your marketing and branding for a group practice Structuring your practice and your schedule  Guilt and self-doubt  Hiring, mentoring, and workplace culture How to build a strong team The mistakes Maureen made (and what she says to do differently)

What the Grief Just Happened? An interview with Sonya Lott, Ph.D, on how COVID has impacted our experience of grief. Curt and Katie talk with Sonya about the types of grief people are experiencing and how people have been coping thus far. We explore what prolonged grief is and the risk factors that contribute to it as well as tips to support clients. We also talk about the need for therapists to be informed on grief processes and the importance of meeting clients where they are.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age.   Interview with Sonya Lott, Ph.D, Founder of CEMPSYCH, LLC Sonya Lott has a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Temple University. She been licensed as a psychologist in PA since 1991. Since 2020, she has been licensed to provide telepsychology in more than 16 states through the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Board’s (ASPPB) PSYPACT program. She maintains a private online practice devoted to helping individuals transform their experiences of traumatic and prolonged grief. She is trained in Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), an evidence-based treatment for prolonged grief and is also a certified brainspotting practitioner. She is also the founder of CEMPSYCH, LLC, which offers continuing education in multicultural psychology to mental health professionals. CEMPSYCH, LLC is approved as a sponsor by the APA to provide continuing education to psychologists.   In this episode we talk about: Who Sonya Lott is and what she puts out in the world. Looking at how COVID has impacted our experience of grief (i.e., death and non-death losses). How the uncertainty COVID created has added to our difficulty in acknowledging losses in our lives. Discussion of how clinicians can help their clients (and themselves) recognize and process their grief. Examining how losses to previous COVID, attachment styles, and other risk factors have influenced the way people manage their grief. Defining prolonged grief and recognizing when it is a problem, while making cultural considerations. Factors that have contributed to people developing prolonged grief (e.g., isolation, previous mental health challenges, etc). What clinicians can expect to see from clients as we move into the next phase of our lives. The need for clinicians to be able to differentiate from grief, prolonged grief, and major depression and address each accordingly. Recognizing that the grief people are experiencing is inherently traumatic and integrating this into treatment. Tips for clinicians to help clients who are stuck. Being a grief informed therapist (knowing there are no stages to grief). The importance of meeting people where they at to help them process their grief.  Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Dr. Sonya Lott Website CEMPSYCH LLC Relevant Episodes: Death, Dying, and Grief Compassion Fatigue Connect with us! Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapists Group Get Notified About Therapy Reimagined Conferences

An interview Megan Costello, LMFT on taking the best of Community Mental Health into your private practice. Curt and Katie interview Megan about her very successful private practice that is 100% home and field-based. They talk about how to a field-based practice works, including practical considerations. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Megan Costello, LMFT Megan Costello, LMFT, is a person-centered behaviorist providing in-home counseling for families in Los Angeles. Megan has provided services to clients in their homes or the community for almost 15 years. Megan started her career as a behavioral technician, providing behavioral therapy under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) before she moved into a supervisory role for Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) cases (both in- home and school-based cases). Megan continued this work as she obtained her Masters of Science in Counseling at California State University, Long Beach. Megan then added clinical work in community mental health, providing specialized support to children on the autism spectrum with trauma histories. When Megan moved into private practice, she incorporated the best of the in-home and behavioral interventions into her treatment model. She brings practical advice and strategies to her clinical work, providing specialized, comprehensive treatment to higher needs or atypical cases.   In this episode we talk about: Megan’s perspective and a new model for private practice How to make applied behavioral analysis more person-centered The value of being relentlessly client-centered and doing the highest impact work, regardless of how convenient to the therapist The types of clients who would benefit more from in-home and school-based therapy The benefits of in-home therapy over in-office therapy The need to price your services accordingly How to create an office in your car How to manage your scheduling The unique challenges of working in the home, looking at confidentiality, family involvement The model that requires family and parent involvement Safety assessments prior to going out to the home How to assess over the phone prior to starting home-based treatment Getting parent buy-in for active involvement in treatment for their child   Relevant Resources: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links: Megan’s website: https://www.megcostello.com/ Megan’s consultation: https://www.megcostello.com/consulting AND WE HAVE A PICTURE OF MEGAN'S TRUNK ON THE WEBSITE!    The Modern Therapists Group on Facebook Therapy Reimagined 2019 Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/  

Penny Wise and Pound Foolish: Thoughts on investing and getting paid as a therapist Curt and Katie chat about money: considerations for investing and getting paid as a therapist.  We look at typical unpaid opportunities and how to decide whether to do them. We also talk about client care practices that may take time, but could keep clients.   Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about money mistakes that many therapists make We talk a lot about making sure that therapists get paid, but thought it was worth talking about when therapists should invest in their business and when they may want to work for free.   What are the lessons Curt and Katie learned around investing in their businesses? ·      Electronic Health Records/Practice Management systems are very helpful ·      Automation helps your business to run without you ·      Sometimes visibility is worth working for free How do you decide if you should do something for your business? “I gave a presentation, it's gotta be more than 10 years ago at this point, for a group of students. I think, like five people showed up… But I still get referrals from one of the people who came there. And it turned into a really wonderful relationship, because I sounded like I knew what I was talking about.” – Curt Widhalm, LMFT ·      What are the practical benefits and challenges? ·      What are the other potential benefits (like enjoyment)? ·      What is the investment of time, money, and expertise? ·      What is the return on investment? Specifics on deciding to take unpaid work “There are elements of this where it's really looking at is the audience strong enough? Is there any money eventually? And do you actually want the referrals from the audience that you're going to be in front of? Because if all of those things are yes… I would consider – at least the first time out – doing some content creation (because I love content creation) without getting paid to see does it actually pan out. But you want to make sure you track that to determine: am I going to actually get anything from this this relationship and from this work that I'm doing?” – Katie Vernoy, LMFT ·      What new relationships will be developed? ·      Will you get visibility with the audience you’re seeking? ·      Will you obtain access to relevant learning? ·      Is the entity that is asking you legit and established? ·      Are there other forms of compensation (like photos or videos)? ·      Are you able to get clients from this work? (And what are new clients worth to you?) Client care versus getting paid “I don't think it's helpful, at least not for customer service purposes, to view your client as trying to take advantage of you.” – Katie Vernoy, LMFT ·      Setting up appropriate boundaries and policies ·      Avoiding additional costs, if you can (i.e., setting fees in a private pay practice to include these extras) Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Why You Shouldn’t Just Do It All Yourself: An interview with Bibi Goldstein Why You Shouldn't Sell Out to Better Help: An interview with Jeff Guenther I Just Graduated, Now What? Career Advice for New Clinicians

In this episode:   How has psychotherapy changed? What do modern clients, patients want? Private, personal, and professional parts of life. Living your personal brand Can we take our clients further than we’ve gone ourselves? Benefits of being a “whole person” or human therapist. Self-assessment and clinical efficacy. Challenges of the therapist/business-owner. Self-care, boundaries, and avoiding burnout. Katie and Curt talk about their worst sessions  

An interview Laura Westmoreland, LMFT on addressing body bias, body shaming, and health at every size (HAES) in therapy. Curt and Katie talk with Laura about the common mistakes that therapists make when working with clients living in larger bodies. Interview with Laura Westmoreland, LMFT Laura Westmoreland, LMFT identifies as a white woman living in a larger body, cisgender, straight, and able-bodied; her pronouns are she/her. She acknowledges that she has white privilege. She works with individuals, couples, and families who want to explore what is holding them back from leading the life they desire; both personally and professionally. The key to her work is the relationship developed. Together with her clients, she can create a brave space; a brave space requires stepping out of your comfort zone, risking vulnerability, and being curious. Laura believes... what we struggle with provides insight and can help us grow connection is key; reciprocal relationships require effort regularly engaging in pleasurable activities fosters joy and happiness in nourishing mind, body, and soul that self-compassion is vital to wellbeing all bodies are good bodies   In this episode we talk about: The importance of inclusion related to body diversity What body bias looks like in a therapist office Health At Every Size (HAES) The challenges of living in a larger body The war on obesity and walking into a war zone The medicalization of body diversity with words like “overweight” and the pathologizing of different bodies The danger of colluding with the diet culture The controversy that exists within the eating disorder community related to HAES Focusing on the client’s lived experience, rather than the societal expectations Sorting through when larger bodies suggest symptomology of a mental health or trauma concern versus when someone is healthy in a larger body Showing curiosity around what “feeling fat” means, rather than suggesting a diet or fix The danger of prescribing to people living in larger bodies what we would treat in eating disorder clients (i.e., restriction) How a clinician’s body bias can negatively impact treatment efficacy Intuitive eating – paying attention to hunger and satiety cues Joyful movement, rather than trudging to the gym The importance of finding your healthy practices Assessment best practices Harvard Implicit Bias Tests The different biases that Curt and Katie hold around body sizes Bias and microaggressions that can show up in the therapist office What therapists can look for when assessing whether clients feel comfortable in their own bodies   Relevant Resources: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links: Laura Westmoreland’s Website FB: Laura Westmoreland Lmft IG: haes_therapist_in_la Twitter: @haestherapistla Intuitive Eating Website Be Nourished Jeffery Hunger’s Publication Harvard Implicit Bias Tests (Association for Size Diversity and Health) ASDAH  Dr, Vincent Felitti talks about the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study The Modern Therapists Group on Facebook Therapy Reimagined 2019 Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Curt and Katie talk about why to join your professional organization, how to best take advantage of the benefits of your membership, and what associations actually do.   It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Why to join your professional organization What your membership fees go to Advocacy efforts, legislation Finding the cultural fit for your professional organization Joining based on your license, the focus of the org, education The tools that professional organizations provide to their members The power of numbers in advocacy Networking and getting referrals within your local chapter Community building Learning and growing Relationship building How to assess return on investment on joining Opportunities for leadership, education, networking Creating friendships Differentiating yourself within your local community Decreasing isolation Gaining perspective on your work/business situation Continuing Education Making an impact on how your professional organization operates Communication about the current state of affairs Needed information for both pre-licensed and licensed individuals Magazines, Scholarly Journals How to get involved, show up consistently Committees, projects, volunteering How to approach the situation whether you’re an introvert, ambivert, or extrovert Benefits to your business, network and community, education, advocacy, and fun Vote for Curt Widhalm, LMFT for President-Elect of CAMFT

Episode 200: Mail Bag! Curt and Katie reflect on 200 episodes, answer questions and respond to feedback from listeners. We explore the tension between making a good living and providing affordable mental health care to consumers. We dig into paying prelicensed individuals, antitrust concerns, training centers, ethics codes, app therapy, setting fees, and therapist career trajectories.         It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Celebrating 200 episodes! Question about how to make money and help to provide affordable access to clients Systemic challenges and the phases of change to the system Individual responsibility and the problems of this individual responsibility to therapists The way in which we can take action to make our careers more sustainable, while also advocating for change The debate about unpaid internships, training centers, and free labor (which is against the law) Online App Therapy – whether it is hurting the field and gaslighting therapists Sliding scale, setting fees, and why therapists’ rates vary so widely Why people don’t stay therapists, feel the need to become a thought leader Reflections on 200 episodes  Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below might be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! CAMFT’s statement on Paying Prelicensees as a Best Practice Department of Labor Statement on Internship Programs Robert Casares Jr. (2020): Embracing the Podcast Era: Trends, Opportunities, & Implications for Counselors, Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, DOI: 10.1080/15401383.2020.1816865

Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health: An Interview with Dr. Barbara Stroud An Interview with Dr. Barbara Stroud Barbara Stroud, PhD, is a licensed psychologist with over three decades worth of culturally informed clinical practice in early childhood development and mental health. She is a founding organizer and the inaugural president (2017-2019) of the California Association for Infant Mental Health, a ZERO TO THREE Fellow, and holds prestigious endorsements as an Infant and Family Mental Health Specialist/Reflective Practice Facilitator Mentor. In 2018 Dr. Stroud was honored with the Bruce D. Perry Spirit of the Child Award. Embedded in all of her trainings and consultations are the activities of reflective practice, demonstrating cultural attunement, and holding a social justice lens in the work. Dr. Stroud’s book “How to Measure a Relationship” [published 2012] is improving infant mental health practices around the globe and is now available in Spanish. Her second book, an Amazon best seller, “Intentional Living: finding the inner peace to create successful relationships” walks the reader through a deeper understanding of how their brain influences relationships. Both volumes are currently available on Amazon. Additionally, Dr. Stroud is a contributing author to the text “Infant and early childhood mental health: Core concepts and clinical practice” edited by Kristie Brandt, Bruce Perry, Steve Seligman, & Ed Tronick. Dr. Stroud received her Ph.D. in Applied Developmental Psychology from Nova Southeastern University, and she has worked largely with children in urban communities with severe emotional disturbance.  Dr. Stroud’s professional career path has allowed her to work across service delivery silos supporting professionals in mental health, early intervention (part c), child welfare, early care and education, family court staff, primary care, and other arenas. She is highly regarded and has been a key player in the inception and implementation of cutting-edge service delivery to children Prenatal to five and their families; her innovative approaches have won national awards. More specifically, Dr. Stroud is a former preschool director, a non-public school administrator, director of infant mental health services and agency training coordinator. She has held an adjunct faculty position at California State Long Beach and maintained a faculty position in the Infant-Parent Mental Health Fellowship for 12 years. Currently, Dr. Stroud’s primary focus is professional training and private consultation from an anti-racist lens, with a focus on social justice, in the field of infant mental health. Dr. Stroud remains steadfast in her mission to ‘changing the world – one relationship at a time’. What is infant and early childhood mental health? Looking at big feelings and social and emotional development The current brain science that is impacting infant and early childhood mental health How adults impact infant developing brains What are the basics that therapists should know when working with children under 5 years old? The importance of dyadic therapy Parent training Social emotional developmental stages The damage of punishment on the development of an authentic self What infants need to love themselves, have healthy development Infants want to be safe, seen, heard, and helped Co-regulation and holding the big feeling with the child The impacts of this work on adults Transgenerational work – we treat the parent in the way that we would like the parent to treat the child How to support parents in healing their own wounds Therapy Interventions for infants and children under five years old Play therapy is complex and advanced and requires training and supervision Before children can think symbolically or have words, play is not effective Attunement and attachment work

Curt and Katie talk about people who yell “That’s Unethical” whenever they disagree with what someone else is doing. It could be ethics, but it might actually be legal, clinically relevance, values, morals, what “should” be done or what has always been done – and how to navigate messy decisions. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The tendency of people to yell "That's Unethical!" when they disagree with what you're doing (even if it doesn't relate to an ethic) The differences between laws, ethics, clinically relevance, personal morals and values, and “shoulds” or what we’ve always done #citethestatute Being thoughtful about how we make decisions as a therapist Emotional versus wise mind arguments The messiness of reality – things don’t always stack up related to laws, ethics, clinical relevance, etc. The need to discuss these things, so we can make change when needed How to sort through the muddiness of real world scenarios where laws, ethics, and clinical interventions don’t line up. The need to sort through in a case by case basis Developmental stages of navigating the complexity of these differentiations Your own values, limitations The importance of consultation Facebook group consultation – pros and cons Seeking consultation on ethical, legal, and clinical complexity   Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Dr. Ben Caldwell with Ben Caldwell Labs Other Relevant Episodes: Dual Relationships Dating as a Therapist Social Media and Video Marketing for Therapists Managing Your Online Reputation How Much is Too Much? (on limit setting, talking politics with clients, etc.) The Brand Called You What Clients Want (on the therapeutic relationship) Our Take on Texts   Our event this year: The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!! Our new consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

REPLAY - Structuring Self-Care  We’re still on vacation, but wanted to share another one of our favorite episodes with all of you. We start with a quick reflection on the episode and what we’ve learned since it originally aired. Today’s replay is of Episode 141: Structuring Self-Care. We talk about structuring self-care into your business practices. We look at how to incorporate self-care best practices into the way you build your work day. We also talk about common challenges to taking this advice. You can find the original show notes and transcripts here: Structuring Self-Care.

What’s New in the DSM-5-TR? Curt and Katie interview Dr. Michael B. First, MD, editor and co-chair of the American Psychiatric Associations’ DSM-5 Text revision, coming out March 2022. We explore: What are the differences between a full update and a text revision? What changes have been made (and how were these changes decided)? What new diagnoses can we expect? Can clinicians continue to use the older DSM-5? How can clinicians advocate for changes in future versions of the DSM? All of this and more in the episode. Interview with Dr. Michael B. First, MD What changes have been made in the new DSM-5-TR? Text revisions occur to avoid letting the text become stale while supporting ongoing updates. New disorders, specifically Prolonged Grief Disorder, have been added. New codes, modeled off symptom codes, created for documenting suicidality and non-suicidal self-injury with another diagnosis. New categories of Unspecified Mood Disorder. New Criteria set for Autism Spectrum Disorder which is more conservative. How are cultural differences addressed in the DSM-5-TR? Starting with DSM-IV, there has been a special committee created for culture and culture related issues Hypothetically, the criteria sets should apply to everyone, but in the text, there is a section on Culture Related Features which is more specific. The impact of the George Floyd protests inspired the creation of a new committee to look for systemic racism, lack of nuances, and prevalence issues within the DSM. There are conflicting opinions if “transness” should be included in the DSM and if it’s even a mental disorder. As the DSM is a diagnostic tool to code for insurance, the DSM takes the stance that the Gender Dysphoria diagnosis stay included so individuals can have access to medical intervention and treatment. The Steering Committee for new diagnosis is small, but there is diversity. Before a diagnosis is approved, it is posted for 45 days on the DSM website for all, including people with lived experience, to comment and advocate for diversity What is the Process for Accepting New Diagnose? The steering committee accepts proposals through the DSM portal for new diagnosis Some diagnoses are qualified based on the United States’ continued use of ICD-10, whereas the ICD-11 is more progressive. With Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, some of the criteria from the ICD have been incorporated into the DSM diagnosis of PTSD Proposals are floated around often, but they often don’t have enough empirical research yet. Proposals need to show a pool of patients who don’t fit other diagnoses, a gap in treatment, and a difference from other possible similar diagnoses. New diagnoses will be approved on a continuum, making the electronic DSM-V-TR the most up to date resource.

Clinical Work with Sex Workers: An Interview with Jamila Dawson, LMFT and Dr. Theo Burnes, PhD Curt and Katie interview Dr. Theo Burnes and Jamila Dawson on their new book Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers. We talk about what therapists get wrong when thinking about sex work and sex workers, what common biases therapists hold about sex work, what sex work looks like now, and how clinicians can work effectively with sex workers. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about sex workers seeking therapy There are number of client populations that we just don’t talk about in grad school. Sex Workers are an important group that we find continue to face bias and ignorance in the therapy room. We reached out to Theo Burnes and Jamila Dawson to learn more about this often forgotten client population. What are therapists getting wrong when thinking about sex work and sex workers? Clinicians often are focused on saving people, which is misguided We lose opportunities as change agents Not understanding sex work and the complexity of any job There is a bias about the relationships between sex and work and what sex is What are common biases that therapists hold related to sex work? The bias that there must be trauma if someone chooses to do sex work The bias that they must hate their job and want to get out of this work The lack of awareness about immigration’s intersection with sex work The additional bias related to racism, sexism, and genderism Anti-erotophobia Anti-neurodivergence – there are more folks in sex work who are neurodivergent due to the flexibility and other characteristics of the job Entertainment bias is pervasive with the rescue theme (e.g., Pretty Woman) What does sex work look like now? The “Whorearchy” or hierarchy within sex worker communities (outside vs inside, independent or employee, safety level) – for example working independently in the safest environments (i.e., inside, virtually) is seen higher up the whorearchy Different types of sex work including courtesan/girlfriend experience versus other types that are less heterosexual normative Understanding the pros and cons of each type of sex work is important for clinicians working with sex workers The opportunities related to innovation (sex and porn often drive innovation) and creativity How can a clinician work effectively with sex workers? Getting curious to fully understand the unique situation for the client Assessments availability in the book: Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers Pay attention to how you talk about sex work as clients will test whether they can talk about their sex work Sex work may not be the presenting issue, but it is relevant to identify whether they are self-identifying as a sex worker to the therapist Holding space for clients not disclosing everything at the beginning of therapy Showing sex positivity and openness to hear about any sensitive topics (sex, drug use, etc.) Understanding the fears and myths that are floating around (e.g., the myth that therapists will call law enforcement or CPS solely because someone reports being a sex worker) Being an agent for social change and advocating for systemic change Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Episode 12: Having Fun at The Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference Survival Guide Tips, Tools, and Name Dropping It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: We’re having a great time at The Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference!! We sat down and talked with so many of the exhibitors and participants. Adam Luke, Alise Bartley, Ben Caldwell, Chris Williams, Cori Rosenthal, Douglas Evans, Ernesto Segismundo, Frances J. Harvey, Jason Odegaard, Jean Penilla, Jill Johnson-Young, Jo Muirhead, Joanne Holbert, Joey Tapia-Fuselier, Kelly Higdon, Lilia Carey, Maelissa Hall, Melissa Garcia, Miranda Palmer, Rachel McMurray, Saba Harouni Lurie, Sana Vawda, Sandra Miller, Sherry Shockey-Pope, Silvy Khoucasian, Susette Magana, Terry Heptinstall, Uriah Guilford, and Zanetta Van Putten We have more interviews to come!! Check back!!   Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. We’re going to be at Exhibitor Table #142 at the conference. Come visit us to meet us, hop on the podcast or livestream, and to take advantage of our giveaways and raffles. Learn about our exciting events for next year and sign up for opportunities to get extra special rates during our flash sale! Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Irrational Ethics Curt and Katie chat about how current ethical standards fail to recognize culture and humanity. We talk about how the ethics codes were initially created, looking at the racist, sexist, classist roots. We also discuss the problems in how ethics are usually taught and the lack of focus on ethical thinking and decision-making, rather than rigidly following rules based in oppression. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The gaps in the ethics codes, looking at the historical roots of the current codes How ethics codes were initially created – racist, sexist, classist roots The systemic implications related to continuing to refine the codes, rather than re-norming or recreating starting with the current people in the profession Thoughts around fixing the codes to be more representative and inclusive The challenges that ethics committees face in considering a new ethics code The aspirational aspects of the “shared values” The problems with how we teach ethics in grad school “We were taught ethics as laws.” The need to think ethically, not blindly follow rules out of context The problem with rigidly holding to imperfect ethical codes Authoritarian practices of holding each other to ethics codes “We’re perpetuating oppression and disguising it as morality” – Curt Widhalm Principle ethics – bare-minimum guidelines to protect against the lowest common denominator Aspirational ethics – and why we should move in this direction The willing ignorance of other cultures within the ethical codes Our requirement to hold to white Eurocentric ideals What we can do to improve the codes Looking at ourselves as individuals and having guidance on how we can be better The failure of the codes to consider how therapists show up in the room The importance of having best practices for optimizing performance for therapists The problem with not clearly distinguishing between principle versus aspirational codes Posing the question on what an ethics code would look like when it isn’t tied to a professional association

Clinician AND Entrepreneur: An interview with Jo Muirhead An interview with Jo Muirhead, chief life changer and business coach, on how self-promotion positively impacts your clinical work. We also talk about how therapists need to invest in their business training to be a successful entrepreneur. Interview with Jo Muirhead Jo is Uber passionate about private practice. You should see the video on her home page of her website. She loves to empower clinicians to build profitable and sustainable businesses through doing more of the work they love, the way they love to do it (www.jomuirhead.com). In this episode we talk about: Jo’s story of being told she couldn’t build her business and doing it anyway Being an entrepreneur and thinking bigger than what is in front of you, thinking ahead of your clients The tendency for therapists to follow “the rules” to their detriment What an entrepreneurial clinician means Self-promotion and marketing How professional organizations and ethical codes are behind the times related to self-promotion The tendency of people to judge others in the FB groups Getting in the head and the heart of your client, so you can give them something of value What we miss in the therapeutic relationship when we stay too clinical How consumers have changed since the dawn of the internet The differences across countries related to practicing therapy The importance of understanding what is going on in the world and how it impacts what you can do as an entrepreneur Looking at the code of conduct or ethics code to determine how you behave as a professional How therapists get in their own way by only “investing” in the free stuff to learn business What to do when you don’t know what you don’t know The trouble with jumping too early into alternative revenue streams Managing expectations around what you can make and how to set up your business The difference between alternative revenue streams and marketing tools The most harmful myths that have been put out there about entrepreneurship How so many people access information and don’t implement it The shocking truth that not everyone needs to be in private practice Working out what works best for you Investing money AND time in building your business What you should invest in first, when building a private practice Getting clarity on who you are, what you do well, and how you move forward Jo’s pushing against the “7-Step System” models that so many coaches use Jo’s best advice for therapists wanting to become entrepreneurial clinicians   Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy This is Private Practice Jo on Facebook The Entrepreneurial Clinician by Jo Muirhead PURPLE CO jomuirhead.com Previous Episodes Mentioned: The Brand Called You    Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Asian American Mental Health An interview with Linda Yoon, LCSW, on specific mental health needs of Asian American clients. Curt and Katie talk with Linda about what therapists often get wrong when working with Asian clients and colleagues. We explore the model minority myth, fetishization of Asian women, and the complexity of the heterogeneous group that falls under the term “Asian American.” We also talk about steps therapists can take to better support Asian American people.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Linda Yoon, LCSW, Founder and Co-Director of Yellow Chair Collective Linda is the founder and the co-director of Yellow Chair Collective, a multicultural psychotherapy group with a special focus on Asian mental health. Linda has over 10 years of experience in the field of social work and mental health. Before starting Yellow Chair Collective, she worked in residential and outpatient mental health clinics, domestic and intimate relationship violence programs, and affordable and inclusive housing services, often serving Asian and Asian Pacific Islanders and the immigrant/refugee population. Linda is passionate about community outreach and provides workshops on social and mental health topics including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), cultural sensitivity, parenting, self and community care, family violence, refugee/immigrant issues, and Asian American mental health. Her work has been featured in the LA Times, KXN, CBS Radio, KPBS, Al Dia Politics, and Crushing the Myth. Linda also has been a panelist for KQED Forum, NPR Podcast, and USC Center for Health Journalism speaking about Asian Mental Health needs during the pandemic and anti-Asian hate crime surge. Linda is also an active committee member of NASW-CA Asian Pacific Islander Council - Southern California. In this episode we talk about: Why Asian American Mental Health is so important What therapists are getting wrong when working with Asian clients and colleagues The Model Minority myth, bias and stereotypes The lack of understanding of who Asian Americans are (and the heterogeneity of this group – there’s over 20 Asian countries with different languages and characteristics) Self-gaslighting, dismissal of Asian American racism experiences Accurate assessment and important questions to ask Looking at different immigration stories, languages spoken, what culture they relate to if their families come from more than one culture The barriers Asian Americans face in seeking mental health treatment The different perspective on mental health and the understanding of body and mind Collectivism and the impact on an individual seeking mental health services How different generations may perceive mental health treatment Culturally and linguistically appropriate services The potential missing data due to Asian Americans not reporting to or trusting the census The current spotlight on Asian hate and racism, and the history of violence against Asian people Common microaggressions The importance of educating oneself and avoiding assumptions, the value of consultation Ways to help with antiracism relevant to Asian Americans Questions to ask yourself to support Asian clients and colleagues

Curt and Katie talk about how niche, safety considerations, or competence can be used by therapists to discriminate against specific classes of people. Specifically looking at therapists who decide to no longer work with men.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: How therapists might be discriminating when they refuse to work with a specific gender Niche, specialization, scope of competence (or scope of excellence) How to assess whether you are discriminating or providing the highest level of care (i.e., referral) Having a thoughtful process and clear conversation to help clients find the best match Assessing safety in deciding who to take into your practice The importance of good screening tools The problem of refusing to see clients when you are fearful of a whole protected class of individuals Marketing to your ideal client to help the clients you’re best suited to help call you When there is a competence issue to be a therapist when you are not able to work professionally with specific protected classes The role that past traumas and wounding experiences have on our ability to be effective therapists Self-awareness versus discrimination The argument about whether we “have to” serve everyone who reaches out to us for help Options when you don’t feel capable of serving specific issues or specific classes of people Referring out, learning more, working on your own triggers The standard that therapists are held to How not to discriminate – helping clients to make an informed choice, providing professional assistance (referring out) When you must see clients according to the ethics codes How to take care of yourself as a therapist Respecting that we are human beings with limits, while still understanding the higher standard that we are held to

I Just Graduated, Now What? – Career Advice for New Mental Health Clinicians Curt and Katie discuss how clinicians can decide what types of jobs to pursue when they first graduate from their clinical program. We look at whether you should go into a community mental health organization or a private practice. We also dig into what you might want to consider when making these choices and looking for these jobs. Curt and Katie share their own perspective and experiences to help you consider many different options at this stage in your career. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about a new therapist’s career path  We received a listener email asking advice for how to approach getting their first job after graduating. We decided to answer that listener and to address the question of how to start your career more broadly.  Should you go into a community mental health organization or private practice? “I'm of the philosophy that, especially if where you imagine yourself being is in private practice at some point, my recommendation is start doing that as soon as reasonably possible” – Curt Widhalm, LMFT Considerations related to longer term goals Practical and logistical factors related to compensation, benefits, and time Clinical training and opportunities What to consider when looking to join a group private practice “When you are looking for a group practice, don’t look for something that’s just a duplication of a community mental health organization… there is a discernment that needs to happen to identify: is this actually preparing you for the private practice that you want to have in five years? Or is it a mill, where you're churning through insurance clients that don't align or… you're working for a fee that you wouldn't be able to sustain?” – Katie Vernoy, LMFT Caseload and pay expectations Training and supervision opportunities What you are willing to do to obtain your own clients Whether you will stay at an agency while building a caseload What are the job options for therapists when they graduate? The importance of informational interviews to understand the options The benefits (and detriments) to different types of work settings Community mental health versus private practice Moving around and getting different experiences versus starting in a niche Identifying what is right for you

It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: A disciplinary action related to a therapist accidentally texting her client with something the client found offensive An argument made related to whether or not therapists should ever text with their clients Informed consent related to texting (including when your signed consent doesn’t protect you) Why it is important to think closely about anything you’re putting out there in texts, social media, or any written communication How to manage boundaries related to potentially being available 24/7 when your clients text How to discuss with your client any missteps with boundaries Telehealth considerations Password protecting your phone Decreasing your liability by making sure you’re HIPAA compliant Email mistakes that aren’t really protected by your email disclaimer All the nuances that can be misunderstood while texting – emojis, punctuation, abbreviations How to handle private messaging on social media How to engage in our Facebook Group Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. California Board of Behavioral Sciences Disciplinary Actions by the CA BBS Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Group Articles: The Legalities and Ethics of Texting Your Psychotherapy Clients Psychotherapy by emoji: Mental health community wrestles with texting Text therapy: once my therapist sent me an emoji, I knew it was game over Other Episodes Mentioned: Making Your Paperwork Meaningful Our events this year: The Brand Called “You”: Legal & Ethical Issues in Developing a Personal Brand The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!  Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Learn more at: www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. Learn more at: www.katievernoy.com A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com www.therapyreimagined.com Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Group https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

What Can Therapists Say About Celebrities? The ethics of public statements Curt and Katie chat about whether therapists should make public statements and diagnose public figures. This is our first continuing education eligible podcast, discussing the ethics of speaking out about the mental health of people in the public eye. We explore the origins of the Goldwater rule, a group of psychiatrists who purposefully broke it, and how masters level organizations address this concern. We also provide you with some ideas about how you can make this decision for yourself. In this podcast episode we look at the ethics of modern therapists diagnosing public figures For our first continuing education worthy podcast, we wanted to address something that is becoming more and more prevalent in our field: therapists speaking out about the mental health of public figures. What is the Goldwater Rule? The history of the Goldwater Rule The impact of DSM II (and the update to DSM III) The original intention of the rule versus the current interpretation of the Goldwater Rule Fears from the American Psychiatric Association that seems to have driven the development of (and on-going commitment to) this rule How the Goldwater Rule (and Similar Ethical Principles) Have Shifted Over Time Perspective from one of the original framers of the Goldwater Rule Moving from teleological to deontological interpretations How the internet and social media has changed the landscape The American Psychiatric Association expanding their commitment to the Goldwater Rule, stating reasons psychiatrists should not assess The Goldwater “Caveat” or “Principle” versus Goldwater “Rule” or even Goldwater “Doctrine” Beyond diagnosis to restricting any comment on the behavior or mental health of a public figure The stance on this ethic from American Psychological Association and the large Masters Level Organizations (AAMFT, ACA, NASW, and CAMFT, for example) The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump – the Public Diagnosis of an American President The group of psychiatrists who pushed back on the Goldwater Rule The Duty to Warn – does it apply here? What are the challenges of accurately diagnosing Trump? Where expertise is helpful (and how the public can water down diagnosis) Current Guidelines for Modern Therapists Whether diagnosis is required for a duty to warn The tactic of putting forward information without drawing conclusions (and why we don’t like this strategy) Specific guidance from the professional organizations on what therapists can and cannot do Taking special care in how one decides what they say about an individual in public settings Using one’s professional judgement and special care Cautions When Using Your Professional Judgment The potential harm of discussing diagnosis on social media Bias, cultural factors, and other information that could make an inaccurate or harmful diagnosis Mental health stigma and other concerns related to diagnostic language (ICD-10, DSM-V) Speaking outside of your professional expertise Questions to ask yourself before making a public statement

Is the Counseling Compact Good for Therapists? Curt and Katie chat about the brand-new Counseling Compact and what therapists may not know or understand about these interstate agreements. We explore the proposed benefits as well as the potential risks and complications like regulatory discrepancies and a lack of consumer protections. We also look at how big tech can benefit while individual clinicians may be left unable to compete in a larger market. In this podcast episode we talk about the new Counseling Compact and Psypact The counselors got their 10th state and officially have Counseling Compact to practice in other states. We thought it would be a good idea to talk about what that means (and what we might want to pay attention to). What is the Counseling Compact? Opportunities for practicing privileges (not licensure) in other states The complexity of putting together these interstate compacts Implementation and regulation hurdles Scope of practice discrepancies and concerns Law and Ethics practices across states Benefits of Interstate Compacts for Mental Health Providers Continuity of care Ease of meeting with clients who are moving around the country Bringing clinicians to areas where there is a workforce shortage Potential Problems with the Counseling Compact Not bringing more clinicians, if only states with workforce shortages join Doesn’t solve the infrastructure problems (i.e., stable Wi-Fi) for rural areas that typically don’t have local therapists The people who most benefit: the big tech companies like Better Help The FBI is opposing this legislation due to lack of federal background checks Lack of consumer protection or consistency in what consumers can expect from their therapist Costs for the therapists to get practicing privileges Large gigantic group practices and tech solutions will contract with insurance and leave smaller practices unable to compete and required to be private pay Solving the Problems with the Counseling Compact Overarching regulation and expectations at a national level Federal bodies to oversee background checks and consumer protections Expensive, time-intensive We don’t have universal healthcare, so insurance parity will need to be addressed (and not just by big tech) Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Counseling Compact Psypact Very Bad Therapy Podcast Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Special Series: Fixing Mental Healthcare in America Fixing Mental Health in America: An interview with Dr. Nicole Eberhart, Senior Behavioral Scientist, and Dr. Ryan McBain, Policy Researcher, The RAND Corporation Online Therapy Apps Why You Shouldn’t Sell Out to Better Help  

What Can Therapists Do When Clients Don’t Getting Better? Curt and Katie chat about what modern therapists can do when their clients don’t (or can’t) get better. We explore what “getting better" looks like in therapy, what can get in the way of clients improving, how we can support clients who are unable to reach traditional treatment goals, and how clinicians can take care of ourselves while doing this longer-term work. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about how therapists can happen when clients aren’t improving At a recent talk, we got the question – what if my clients aren’t getting better? We decided it was time to look at how goals are set, what “getting better” actually looks like, and how therapists can cope with clients whose treatment goals are "not getting worse." What does “getting better” look like in therapy? ·      Treatment goals are often set based on functionality, independence, and productivity ·      Outcome measures can be used to track improvement on mood, anxiety, etc. ·      Goals of “not getting worse” or prevention of future concerns are often hard to quantify or are unsatisfying for therapists (and potentially for their clients) What can get in the way of clients improving in therapy? ·      Situational concerns that are not changed ·      Longer-standing diagnoses that don’t go away, but can be stabilized ·      When improvement is defined as reaching goals, rather than avoiding relapse How can therapists support clients who are unable to reach traditional treatment goals? ·      Collaborative treatment goal setting ·      Identifying appropriate expectations ·      Quality of Life goals ·      Showing ongoing medical necessity and documenting appropriate need for ongoing care ·      Higher acuity and relevant diagnoses documented How can clinicians take care of ourselves when we have longer term clients who don’t show dramatic improvement? ·      Getting clear on client’s capacity for growth ·      Be clear on your own skills and capacity as a therapist ·      On-going conversations with the client to determine whether other help is needed ·      Exploring quality of life goals ·      Identifying incremental gains and reframing to build hope ·      Deepening the therapeutic relationship, focusing on the attachment ·      Redefining success and understanding the pieces that are still uncomfortable ·      Making sure that therapists do not define their own success based on client outcomes ·      Destigmatizing long-term weekly therapy as a coping strategy Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Podcast Homepage Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Curt and Katie talk about treatment teaming as a therapist. We look at why you should do it, things to consider, and what it looks like in different settings.      It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Treatment teams as the most effective way to work with clients The education gap for people related to creating treatment teams The difficulty with the model of the therapist being the primary agent for change The different roles of treatment team members, especially as a therapist The distinction between diagnosis for medical necessity and for the clinical case conceptualization Specific things related to working with psychiatrists The challenge related to perceived hierarchy within the profession The value of having a treatment team leader and how to identify who should be the leader The importance of having a lot of information and additional perspectives The scope of practice considerations and how to talk with someone who has a different scope Fragmented communication within treatment teams Community Mental Health programs that require treatment teaming The different way that we set up a treatment teams when we’re in private practice Confidentiality and communication concerns when treatment teaming How to interact with the other team members The educational considerations related to treatment teaming The “mercenary” reason to do treatment teaming Our Generous Sponsor: Therapy Reimagined 2019: The Modern Therapist Conference presented by SimplePractice October 18 and 19th in Universal City, CA – Hang out with the cool #moderntherapists! We are sponsoring our own podcast because we are so excited about the conference! Grab your continuing education for the year and get trained up on business building, diversity, technology, self-care and all-around amazing professional development this October! Come join us in-person for the same fun we bring to the podcast!! Use the promo code MTSG50 to get $50 off your full conference ticket. Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Wraparound Services within Community Mental Health Article: Hoge MA, Morris J, Daniels A, et al. (2007). An Action Plan on Behavioral Health Workforce Development. Rockville, Md, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration   Relevant Episodes: In-Person Networking   Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapists Group Therapy Reimagined 2019   Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/    

Am I Honoring My Personal Values OR Am I Discriminating? An exploration of ethics for modern therapists Curt and Katie chat about what therapists should be considering when their strongly held personal values or moral beliefs conflict with a client’s demographics, lifestyle, or choices. We dig deeply into when it’s okay to make a “values-based referral” and when referring out is discrimination.   This is a law and ethics continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we explore the difference between honoring our personal values and discrimination Therapists are people who have their own identities, beliefs, values, and approaches to life. But what happens when those identities come into conflict with the clients that they serve? This CE podcourse explores the ethics behind therapist personal values, when personal values should dictate a client being referred to another treatment provider, and when that referral is actually discriminatory. What is Julia Ward vs. Eastern Michigan University? An Orthodox Christian, master’s student in counseling requested referring out a LGBTQ+ client This student was dismissed from school because it was seen as discrimination and referrals were not allowed at that school There was a summary judgment and an appeal, leading to further lack of clarity The State of Tennessee has a law that allows therapists to deny services to clients The law trying to overcome ethics codes The ACA protested by moving their annual convention out of the state Tennessee How do ethics codes handle the conflict between discrimination and holding to personal values? Do no harm, be truthful, practice within your competence Equity, fidelity and the call to not discriminate with a call to learn and expand competence with clients, and avoid abandoning clients How do we decide whether we can or should refer out a client based on our firmly held beliefs? Ethical decision-making and our responsibility based on our license Sorting out client need, competence, and the benefit of the therapeutic relationship (i.e., common factors) Referral is a last resort and should be based on client need (not therapist preference) Advertising and branding for clients to self-select What happens when clients disclose things later in treatment The differences in the task for clinicians in private practice versus clients in organizations Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Once you’ve listened to this episode, to get CE credit you just need to go to learn.moderntherapistcommunity.com/pages/podcourse, register for your free profile, purchase this course, pass the post-test, and complete the evaluation! Once that’s all completed - you’ll get a CE certificate in your profile or you can download it for your records. Continuing Education Approvals: You can verify CE approvals here: Continuing Education Information Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Saving Psychotherapy by Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD *The full reference list can be found in our show notes at mtsgpodcast.com as well as on the course on our learning platform. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Link tree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined

Episode 44: Interview Strategies for Therapists: Curt and Katie talk about Interviewing for Mental Health Jobs It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode, we discuss: -Filling out applications correctly -Phone screening process -Different types of interview structures -How to handle questions about theory or your practice style -What employers are looking for -Professionalism during the interview process -Deal breakers for employers -Extroverted vs introverted answers Previous Episodes Mentioned: Getting a J-O-B Our events this year: The Brand Called “You”: Legal & Ethical Issues in Developing a Personal Brand The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!  Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is the Chief Financial Officer for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Learn more at: www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. Learn more at: www.katievernoy.com A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com www.therapyreimagined.com https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/    

It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Embracing your own personal brand works when you own what you do Using video can be an effective way of promoting mental wellness Video has built therapeutic relationship prior to patients coming in for the first session Pulling in a lot of different identities works best when bringing it together with your passion Everyone has their own relationship with failure Livesteam failures and handling online trolls Therapists and other mental health professionals are the most critical of the crafted brand Advertise where people are: social media Humor eases anxieties around mental health issues Therapists underestimate the power of being themselves Being appropriately authentic Find your social support system to better yourself  Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Jax Anderson’s website The Psyko therapist youtube channel The Psyko therapist Instagram A Beautiful Journey Clinic John Mulaney   Previous Episodes Mentioned: Bad Marketing Decisions Social Media and Video Marketing Our events this year: The Brand Called “You”: Legal & Ethical Issues in Developing a Personal Brand The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!  Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is the Chief Financial Officer for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Learn more at: www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. Learn more at: www.katievernoy.com A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com www.therapyreimagined.com https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

An interview with Debi Frankle, LMFT on how therapists can navigate when clients die. We look at what to do when clients die by suicide, die based on high risk lifestyles, or long-term illnesses. We also talk about the complicated emotions that therapists face in this isolated grief. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Debi Frankle, LMFT Debi Jenkins Frankle is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Grief Specialist and Trainer. Debi has been working with grievers for over 25 years. She and husband, Mark Frankle LMFT, are the co-founders of the Calabasas Counseling and Grief Recovery Center. Debi is the founder of Private Practice Grief Workshops and Trainings for Mental Health Professionals as well as the FB group for therapists: Private Practice Grief. Debi’s areas of expertise are grief and trauma. Debi has led trainings for grief counseling professionals throughout the United States and Canada. Debi is a past president of San Fernando Valley chapter of CAMFT, past committee co-chair of the Crisis Response Network for SFV CAMFT and a member of the Association for Death Education (ADEC). In her spare time, she plays in dirt and hangs out with dogs (and her husband too!). In this episode we talk about: How therapists can handle when a client dies by suicide Legal and logistical considerations The importance of grounding yourself and seeking out consultation with a trusted colleague The stigma leading to therapists avoiding disclosing when clients die by suicide Considerations in contacting the family of the client and how to handle the conversation The complicated emotions that therapists can face as professionals and as grievers Deciding to go to the funeral The isolated grief that therapists face How grief can be different when a client dies by something preventable, or something they caused - disenfranchised grief or discounted grief The uniqueness of the therapist’s response The different types of losses and the reactions we have to them The emotional reactions that therapists should allow in treatment (and should not allow) The importance of doing your own work regarding your own losses How therapists can defer the conversations in treatment away from the necessary grief work How to manage the rest of the caseload when you’ve experienced a personal loss or a client has died The modeling we can do for our clients What happens when your therapy dog dies and how to manage that with your clients The work we need to do to be better at working with grief overall

WE HEARD YOU AND WE’RE MOVING TO ONE EPISODE A WEEK! ALSO… LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE NOW TO HEAR OUR SPECIAL COMMUNITY MEMBER CODE TO GET EXTENDED EARLY BIRD PRICING THROUGH FRIDAY 4/27/18 ON OUR LAW AND ETHICS WORKSHOP MAY 18TH, 2018!! It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The definition of Personal Branding and what it means for therapists How to use your authentic voice How to identify how best to present yourself How you come across to others, especially to clients Answering the question, what do I offer? The danger of mimicking others Professional bios versus authentic connection Your professional persona Why it is important to really represent who you are as a therapist Ethical reasons to embrace your style (and communicate it well) How to take off the blank screen or blank slate, looking at the self-exploration that’s needed How our experiences and our values can impact treatment Relevant ethics codes related to choosing who you work with, embracing your skill set, and rejecting clients based on demographics What to put on your website How fear can get in the way of effectively reaching your clients How personal branding is the antidote to being “too niched.” Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Dr. Ben Caldwell’s Book Saving Psychotherapy Other Episodes Mentioned: Bad Marketing Decisions What is a Modern Therapist Are You Sure You’re a Specialist? How Much is Too Much? Building the Psyko Therapist Brand The Fight to Save Psychotherapy Therapists in Therapy     Our events this year: The Brand Called “You”: Legal & Ethical Issues in Developing a Personal Brand The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!  Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Learn more at: www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. Learn more at: www.katievernoy.com A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com www.therapyreimagined.com Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Group https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/    

Is Therapy an Opiate of the Masses? Curt and Katie chat about how therapy can collude with the status quo and has historically failed to serve marginalized populations. We talk about the risks of therapy that doesn’t honor the context and systems within which people and families operate. We look at how therapists can create complacence and obedience if not careful. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Criticisms of therapy as an opiate of the masses Does therapy reinforce the status quo? “Normal” as a culture bound concept Feminist Therapy, Liberation Psychology, Decolonized Therapy The history of pathologizing or demonizing LGBTQ+ Therapy as a white construct Bias in MMPI and re-norming How bias toward “normal” permeates clinical work How therapists reinforce systems norms, encouraging placating the system First, Second, and Third Order change – Individual within family within the systems within which the family operates Individual versus collective change The challenge of assessing and treating within the complex overlay of systems The limitations of evidence-based treatments The vision of acceptance of diversity Therapist training gaps The Seven-Eyed Model of Supervision Impacts for case conceptualization Looking at clients as agents of change, as impacted by their context Validating experiences, increasing resilience and capacity, empowering client to make larger changes Suggesting coping skills without diminishing systemic impacts Therapy as a bandaid “As therapists, we can do a really good job of moving people to complacence if we’re not careful.” – Katie Helping individuals to heal, then moving to “now that” The requirement for therapists to be advocates for change within their communities

What Can Therapists Do When They Get a Life-Threatening Diagnosis? An interview with Patricia Ravitz, LMFT Curt and Katie interview Patricia Ravitz, LMFT, on how she navigated her pancreatic cancer diagnosis as a therapist. We talk about what happens when a therapist must take time away from their practice without notice, what therapists can do to navigate seeing clients while in treatment, and how you and your clinical work can change when you’re facing mortality. We also talk about support and resources.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about how therapists can manage their practice when facing a potentially life-threatening diagnosis Curt and Katie asked their dear friend, Patricia Ravitz, LMFT to come talk about how she handled her practice after getting a cancer diagnosis.  What happens when a therapist must suddenly take time away from their practice for medical treatment? Determining how long will be needed to take time off (if that can be predicted) Identifying how to notify patients and what to share with patients Understanding whether you can have these conversations with patients (or not) Choosing a method for notification  Consulting with a colleague who can help with notification and/or follow up What can therapists do to continue to see clients while in chemotherapy? Assessing your response to chemotherapy and when you might be able to work Identifying days that you typically are able to be present and focused for your clients Determining who you can effectively see as a therapist and who you need to refer out Scheduling therapy around your treatment schedule as well as their clinical needs How might your clinical work change when you’re facing mortality as a therapist? The reality of the precariousness of life can impact the sense of urgency Sorting through what each client wanted to hear about or needed to talk about Focus and sharpening the therapy, moving away from complacency The emotions and care from the clients to the therapist Processing the relationship in a different way What kind of support or resources should therapists use when facing a challenging diagnosis? Personal support, therapy, consultation groups A professional will Understanding how this impacts other relationships and how you look at the world These types of experiences transform how we operate Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Partners of Therapists Curt and Katie chat about how our job and training can impact our partners. We look at the benefits like emotional intelligence, resilience, and perspective. We also look at the challenges therapists and their partners face when trying to navigate being in relationship while one partner is navigating this career. Suggestions about how to navigate conversations and confidentiality as well as possibilities for improving relationships are discussed.     It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The impact of being a therapist on long-term relationships/partnerships The insight into people and relationships that can be a benefit of partnering with a therapist Expecting that the therapist will be the expert or do the emotional lifting The concern that therapists overanalyze their relationships (don’t therapize me!) Therapists breaking down characters in movies and books and ruining things for our partners Positive communication and being able to navigate challenging conversations The desire to talk about the relationship more frequently than our partners The potential of differences when you start a relationship as a therapist or whether you start prior to becoming a therapist Using our training to do what “successful couples” do What might be different if one were to approach dating or starting relationships later The challenge of not being able to talk about work at the end of the day (confidentiality) Specific parameters around how to talk about one’s day (process versus content) When partners aren’t part of our field, they don’t understand how our field works or what our job entails The difficulty of processing trauma, countertransference, empathy fatigue Gaps in the relationships with our partners related to partners not being able to process and handle challenging material The challenge of leaving work at work, being able to relate to other people at the end of the day The impact of the pandemic on childcare and balance of parenting and coparenting Therapist dissociation and self-care When our profession is overtaxed and we are overtaxed, our partners and kids can get pushed to the side What therapists’ partners might need to be successful in these relationships The lack of resources and resilience during the pandemic The difficulty those who are in relationships with therapists understanding that they are human and that we are not always able to cope. How our knowledge and resourcefulness can help with us taking care of ourselves and meeting the needs of our partners The gratitude and love that we can share with our partners when we see how things go wrong Our capacity to have challenging conversations to improve relationships Emotional intelligence and perspective, self-awareness Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below might be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Our Facebook Group Relevant Episodes: Dating as a Therapist Therapy with an Audience Off Duty Therapist   Connect with us! Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapists Group Get Notified About Therapy Reimagined 2021  Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/  

Sex Therapy with Perfectionists: An Interview with Dr. Tom Murray Curt and Katie interview Dr. Tom Murray about sex therapy for clients with the overcontrolled temperament. We talk about how temperament can affect one’s sex life, what therapists often miss in conversations about sex, and what good sex therapy can look like for these clients.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! An Interview with Dr. Tom Murray Dr. Tom Murray, author, international trainer, educator, and couples and sex therapist-supervisor, is a widely sought-after expert in sexuality and intimate relationships. For 20+ years, Murray has worked with everyday folks to embrace their weirdness, shed labels and shame, lean into anxiety, and build better and stronger relationships. Murray has appeared in numerous venues, including the Huffington Post and The Daily Mail, as well as radio, television and podcasts, including the Practice of Being Seen and Shrink Rap Radio. Murray directs A Path to Wellness, a multidisciplinary practice providing sex therapy, couples counseling, and general psychotherapy. He authored "Making Nice with Naughty: An intimacy guide for the rule-following, organized, perfectionist, practical, and color-within-the-line types." In this podcast episode, we talk about how temperament can impact your sex life We reached out to Dr. Tom Murray to share with us about his new book, Making Nice with Naughty, and how therapists can understand how to help perfectionists (and other over-controlled types) can improve their sex life. What is the overcontrolled personality and how does it impact sex and sexuality? Personality characteristics and mindset (introspective, fixed or fatalistic mindset) Perfectionism, rigidity, and hypervigilance Sexual deficits (low receptivity, avoidance of novel situations, need for ritual) Typically choose monogamy as overarching rule for sexual relationships The impact of trauma on those who are predisposed to the overcontrolled temperament The complication of past trauma on current relationships The challenge and the work of helping clients show up as the sexual being they would like to be How can therapists help overcontrolled adults to improve their sexual functioning? The goal of self-acceptance and the importance of learning about sex as an adult The rights and responsibilities of monogamy Sexual discrepancy and forced celibacy Looking at the difference between “want” and “willing” to have sex Understanding the different types of desire (spontaneous, responsive, contextual) and what is typical for each partner How to overcome low sexual desire in relationships Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! The book: Making Nice with Naughty: An Intimacy Guide for the Rule-Following, Organized, Perfectionist, Practical, and Color-Within-The-Line Types by Dr. Thomas L. Murray Jr Tom’s website: drtommurray.com Dr. Tom Murray on Instagram Dr. Tom Murray on TikTok Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Sex and Shame: An interview with Eliza Boquin, LMFT Let’s Talk about Sex: An interview with Liz Dube, LMFT What Therapists Should Know About Sexual Health, Monkey Pox, and the Echoes of the AIDS Epidemic: An Interview with Mallory Garrett, LMFT Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Curt and Katie talk about how the mental health system is set up to lead to burnout. We look at how therapists typically develop over their careers and how educational, licensing, regulation, and business factors can get in the way of this development. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The shift from therapist development focus to a focus on client-care Sacrificial Helping Syndrome, Compassion Fatigue, and Burnout The systemic problems that lead to burnout (education, licensing, regulation, business practices) The impact of the economy on therapists being able to meet their developmental milestones The standard developmental stages of therapists The typical challenges of each stage and how a broken system can make these challenges even harder (or impossible) to navigate Some of the educational or licensing requirements that seem to go against how people best learn and develop The challenge of constantly being in crisis (whether it is about getting hours timely, financial strain, or working with clients with high risk) and trying to become a therapist How the people around us while we are learning impacts how we develop as therapists The struggle to set up a positive learning environment when you’re starting out as a therapist The most important time of training (prelicensed years, especially the first 70 hours) being plagued with high productivity and clients with high risk, which lead to moving quickly, not becoming stronger clinicians The reasons to slow down your prelicensed years for training and personal development and the challenges in doing so The aspects of training that would be ideal (and seem almost magical and impossible) Recovery-oriented training, crisis management, trauma-informed systems The possibilities for improving public mental health and other workplaces to provide a better environment to start and grow as a clinician EFT-Based Supervision as a good standard The conversations that we need to have with stakeholders across the system to work toward change

Curt and Katie talk about ineffective and shady marketing practices that are completely ineffective and bad for your brand. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Laws and best practices related to email marketing The benefit of opt-in and permission marketing List building while providing positive content to the people who have subscribed or opted in Frequency and quality of emails Technological advances that help you send information only to the people who want it Segmented lists: client facing, referral sources, topics, events, etc. The what’s and how’s of the unsubscribe button Unsolicited texts during the election The danger of holding people hostage in any form (in person networking, texting, phone, email) Visibility is not the only goal of marketing Facebook interactions that are not so cool Treating people as a number on a mailing list, a like for a FB page, etc. Excessively marketing – fear based or obsession-based conversations The huge problem of not being able to unsubscribe The dangers of burning out your referral sources with unsolicited emails Creating engaging content Marketing strategy for different platforms Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Permission Marketing by Seth Godin Can-Spam Rule GDPR Other Relevant Episodes: The Brand Called You The Dividing Line Between Coaching and Therapy Our event this year: The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!! Our new consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Learn more at: www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. Learn more at: www.katievernoy.com A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com www.therapyreimagined.com Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Group https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Working for 988: Insider Perspectives Curt and Katie received feedback on our recent one year follow-up episode on the rollout of 988. We received responses from a person who was working within the 988 system as well as someone who started going through the training for the text crisis hotline. We were able to put more depth into our understanding of how this system works. We explored training, supervision, funding, potential equity issues, and concerns for staff. We also share ideas for advocacy.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we report back on employee experiences within the 988/crisis response system We share two insider experiences working within the crisis response system around 988.  Listeners shared their experiences with training as an emergency worker within the 988 system: For the text crisis hotlines, there were concerns about insufficient, online-only training models that lack supervision and focus on formulaic responses. For the call center, there was a report of extensive initial training (9 full time weeks of training) but minimal supervision post-training. What are 988 insider concerns regarding AI and Data Privacy? Ethical concerns around AI tools used for measuring empathy and issues with data collection practices. Balancing AI integration with trauma-informed care and caller anonymity. How does 988 Funding work and what are potential equity Issues? Fragmented funding models tied to sources like Medicaid lead to inconsistent protocols and potentially inequitable care. Federal funding is needed to standardize practices and improve service quality. An insider report on 988 Call Center challenges: High burnout rates among staff due to limited resources and support. Gaps in follow-up care for callers due to funding and staffing constraints. Takeaways and Solutions for 988 and the full crisis response system: Advocacy is needed for dedicated federal funding to ensure consistent training, equitable care, and trauma-informed practices. It would be best to have standardized protocols to strengthen the 988 crisis hotline system. Thoughtful integration of AI to enhance efficiency while maintaining ethical standards. Support for call center staff to prevent burnout and improve service outcomes. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

An interview with Kate Campbell, PhD, LMFT, and Katie Lemieux, LMFT from The Private Practice Startup. Curt and Katie talk with Kate and Katie about the differences between marketing and branding, what therapists should consider when developing their personal brand, and common mistakes therapists make.  Interview with Kate and Katie from the Private Practice Startup The Private Practice Startup is co-owned by Kate Campbell, PhD, LMFT and Katie Lemieux, LMFT. They’re two therapists with entrepreneurial spirits who are crazy about business, branding and marketing. They live, work and play in South Florida.  They both built their 6-Figure private practices in less than 2 years from the ground up and inspire other ambitious mental health professionals to brand themselves, grow their dream private practices and live into their dream lifestyles. They have a hunger for business, branding and marketing.   They love helping private practitioners work with the clients they love, profit more in business, and create the freedom to truly enjoy a lifestyle business.   Kate is a food and wine aficionado who loves to travel and create new memories with her husband and son. She also loves the beach, pilates, riding horses, concerts, and of course the occasional “retail therapy”. Thanks to Kate, Katie is a wine snob in the making. Katie is an avid pitbull lover and has 2 of her own, she loves travel, new and fun adventures, reading, the ID channel, Halloween, sparkles, taking pictures, random silly things, family time and taking time to just be.   They are the creators of Private Practice Marketing E-Course and Coaching, provide FREE podcasts, and customizable Attorney Approved Private Practice Paperwork for therapists. Visit PrivatePracticeStartup.com for more info!      In this episode we talk about: The shear number of Kate/Katies that Curt had to deal with on the episode. The difference between marketing and branding The importance of marketing in developing a business Relationships, ownership as part of the branding process How to stand out, become distinctive What therapists should consider when developing a brand How your unique selling proposition relates to the development of your branding and marketing How therapists’ goals for their lifestyle and their individual picture impacts ideal client Niche and saying no to the clients who are not in your wheel house The challenge of being a generalist, fear of repelling too many clients Why you need to have a brand that clearly inspires your ideal clients The mistakes therapists often make in branding and connecting with your ideal clients Clear planning, following up, and tracking for your marketing Taking ownership of how you are perceived by your ideal clients How brands evolve, especially as you add businesses, business partners, side hustles, etc. How to become business partners and clarify how you work together The mission, values, and operations ties to the brand How your personal brand can be logistically experienced by the public (aka make sure you keep track of all of your websites)   Relevant Resources: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links: Kate and Katie’s website = www.privatepracticestartup.com  The A to Z Cheatsheet: Essentials for Building and Growing Your Dream Private Practice - https://a-z-cheat-sheet-download.gr8.com/ Donald Miller – Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen Jeff Walker - Launch: An Internet Millionaire's Secret Formula to Sell Almost Anything Online, Build a Business You Love, and Live the Life of Your Dreams Russell Brunson Gary Vaynerchuck   Connect with us: The Modern Therapists Group on Facebook Get Notified About Therapy Reimagined 2020 (and TR2019 Virtual Conference) Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Curt and Katie talk about the advocacy efforts to make paying prelicensed individuals a best practice. We talk about a statement recently approved by CAMFT, looking at the process, the implications, and a call to action. In this episode we talk about: A public statement approved at the most recent meeting of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists The supporting information that suggests that paying prelicensed individuals is a best practice of supervision The importance of a living wage, benefits, and meaningful work Curt’s journey in support of this statement The ability (and the challenge) for each of us in these types of advocacy efforts. The call to action to take this statement to your own professional organization The type of push back to expect and how to address it Laws and best practices versus implementation and accountability Addressing bad actors and the goal of keeping good actors good How a single voice can be silenced, but a movement can make a difference The mission of the #therapymovement to leave our profession better A second call to action for you to stand up and advocate for the necessary changes you see Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists The Public Board book from the December CAMFT board meeting (statement on pg. 204-206) References: Abel, J. R., Deitz, R., & Su, Y. (2014) Are recent college graduates finding good jobs? Current Issues in Economics and Finance, 20(1). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2378472 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). Trauma Informed Care in Behavioral Health Service: Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 57. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, MD. Crain, A. (2016). Understanding the impact of unpaid internships on college student career development and employment outcomes. NACE Journal. Available at https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/internships/exploring-the-implications-of-unpaidinternships/. Eby, L. T., Burk, H., & Maher, C. P. (2010). How serious of a problem is staff turnover in substance abuse treatment? A longitudinal study of actual turnover. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 39, 264–271. Hickman, B. (2014, July 23). What we learned exploring unpaid internships. Retrieved from https://www.propublica.org/article/what-we-learned-investigating-unpaid-internships Hoge, M. A., Morris, J. A., Daniels, A. S., Stuart, G. W., Huey, L. Y., & Adams, N. (2007). An action plan for behavioral health workforce development. Annapolis Coalition on the Behavioral Health Workforce: Cincinnati, OH. Knudsen, H. K., Johnson, J. A., & Roman, P. M. (2003). Retaining counseling staff at substance abuse treatment centers: Effects of management practices. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 24(2), 129- 135.   Relevant Episodes: Defining the Therapy Movement Trauma Informed Work Place Joining Your Association Modern Therapists Strike Back Let’s Get Political Building Hope for the Next Generation of Therapists The Fight to Save Psychotherapy Getting Personal to Advocate for Compassion, Understanding, and Social Justice   Connect with us! Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapists Group Get Notified About Therapy Reimagined 2020 (and TR2019 Virtual Conference)   Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Private Practice Planning for the Future of Mental Healthcare: An Interview with Maureen Werrbach Curt and Katie interview Maureen Werrbach of the Group Practice Exchange on upcoming trends for mental healthcare. We talk about what is predicted, how to prepare your private practice for success in 2023, and how to plan for unexpected changes to our profession. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! An Interview with Maureen Werrbach, LCPC, The Group Practice Exchange Maureen Werrbach established The Group Practice Exchange after starting her private practice, Urban Wellness, and growing it into successful group practices in various locations. Spending countless hours researching how to start a private practice (the legal and procedural steps) and then so many more hours learning how to grow it into a group (again trying to figure out the appropriate steps), she remembers wishing there was a place that she could go, or a book that she could read, that would explain not only the steps it would take to launch a group practice, but also discuss topics that relate to group practice ownership. A degree in the social service field doesn’t offer any training on the business side of running a group practice! Maureen learned through trial and error what works and what doesn’t in running a counseling group practice. She enjoys helping others reach their full potential and feel confident in running their business. In this podcast episode, we talk about upcoming trends in Mental Health and what it means for your therapy practice We reached out to our friend Maureen Werrbach of the Group Practice Exchange about where our field is moving and how we can plan for success. The way therapy is provided and paid for will be changing ·      Insurance: Fee for service versus value-based pricing ·      Large tech companies and one-stop shops ·      Ease of access and diminished costs via telehealth What therapists can do to future-proof their practice ·      Strong niche and branding ·      Doing what we do best ·      Addressing fees, profit margins, hiring ·      Dedicate time to researching upcoming trends ·      Diversifying offerings ·      Determining the best fit for your business, your career, your employment Special considerations for Group Practice Owners in 2023 ·      The concerns related to large group therapist mills taking employees ·      Focus on people, culture, and innovation ·      Intentionality related to values, mission, vision ·      Avoiding divisiveness and conflict between employers and employees ·      The importance of transparency and clarity on how you’ve set up your practice ·      Pathways for employees to grow and creative employment opportunities Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! The Group Practice Exchange Membership The Group Practice Exchange Facebook Group Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Maureen’s previous interview: Becoming a Group Practice Owner Fixing Mental Healthcare in America Beyond Reimagination: What is right (and wrong) with mental health apps Post Pandemic Practice All Things Group Therapy: An interview with Katie K. May, LPC Online Therapy Apps Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Podcast Homepage Therapy Reimagined Homepage Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Working with Trans Clients: Trans Resilience and Gender Euphoria An interview with Beck Gee-Cohen, MA CADC-II, about how therapists can be better clinicians for trans people. Curt and Katie talk to Beck about gender identity (and why every therapist should do their own work around gender), historical perspectives on masculinity and femininity, the concepts of trans resilience and gender euphoria, the real problems with the DSM diagnosis of gender dysphoria and considerations for providing therapy to trans clients.  Interview with Beck Gee-Cohen MA CADC-II Director of LGBTQ+ Programming In this podcast episode we talk about trans mental health We invited Beck Gee-Cohen, MA CADC-II to come talk with us about providing therapy for trans individuals. Modern therapists need to keep learning when working with trans clients Getting pronouns correct is a basic expectation at this point Finding the balance between focusing on a client’s trans identity and other elements of their identity and experience Understanding trans identity 101 is a basic level of knowledge that all therapists should have What you do need to learn from your trans clients Therapists need to do their own work around gender The work that therapists must do around gender The role that society plays in defining gender and the binary The privilege cis folks have in not being asked to assess/address their gender “Women’s” and “men’s” issues Societal expectations related to gender The history of gender expression and how what is acceptable has shifted Cultural and generational differences related to gender  The Concept of Trans Resilience The tendency to focus on the pain of being trans The bias and hate that trans folks face, and how they continue to show up The importance of celebrating who you are as a trans person “You’re so brave” doesn’t see the full picture How hard it is to show up – and what it means that trans folks continue to do so Moving away from just focusing on gender dysphoria versus looking at gender euphoria   Gender Dysphoria versus Gender Euphoria and the problems with the DSM How the DSM is used for the medical needs of trans folks The problem with assigning the diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria to an individual Internalized gender dysphoria (it is not my dysphoria, it is the dysphoria of the people around me about my gender) Playing around with gender shouldn’t be a diagnosis, it is so culturally bound Trans individuals have to know what to report so they can get hormones (i.e., they may have to lie about being dysphoric in order to “check the boxes”) The problem with gatekeeping and the hope that trans folks being in work groups to help shift these guidelines   Better Therapy for Trans Clients Therapeutic alliance is the most important How therapists can appropriately use vulnerability when a client comes out as trans The likelihood of someone coming out initially versus after trust is built and how to handle it Sharing the therapeutic process and how you will learn and educate yourself The problem of signaling that you are capable of working with LGBTQ+ people when you are not trained Awareness of how being trans impacts the client in front of you When the client is coming into therapy due to their gender identity Understanding the back story and how someone identified that “something is different” Looking at what they want to do next (which may be very little or a full plan on how they handle being trans).

An Interview with Metta World Peace Metta World Peace played professional basketball for 19 years. He won the NBA World Championship with the LA Lakers in June 2010 and received the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award – the NBA’s highest citizenship and community service honor – in April 2011. He was selected to the 2005-06 NBA’s All-Defensive Team, was voted by the media as 2003-04 NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year and was the only man with 271 steals in his first two seasons in the NBA, breaking Michael Jordan’s record. His autobiography, “No Malice: My Life in Basketball” was released in May 2018 with Triumph Publishing and a documentary on his life in basketball, “Ron Artest: The Quiet Storm” was released on Showtime in May 2019. World Peace is currently pursuing entrepreneurial projects including the XvsX Sports project he cofounded in 2017 and an NFT project, Meta Panda Club, to bring decentralized basketball community to the masses. World Peace is also known as a prominent mental health advocate, pop culture personality, philanthropist, and media favorite. He raffled off his 2010 NBA World Championship Ring with the proceeds going to his nonprofit, Xcel University (now known as Artest University). The online ring raffle raised more than $650,000. Funds were donated to nonprofits in 5 cities that provide mental health therapists and mental health services to their communities, and to provide scholarships to underprivileged youth in the New York City area. World Peace was part of the 13th season of ABC’s Dancing With The Stars, a contestant on CBS’s first edition of Celebrity Big Brother, as well as the CBS competition show, Beyond The Edge. He is active in entrepreneurial endeavors, serves as an advisor to several tech start ups, and seeks to help other basketball players who have aspirations for a pro career with his app and league, XvsX Sports. For more information, please visit https://www.xvsxsports.com/, https://metapandaclub.com/, and https://artestuniversity.org/. Why did Metta World Peace start speaking about his mental health? Metta shared his story growing up The Crack Epidemic and the impact on his neighborhood The challenges of incarceration, lack of education, and access to resources Building a shell to protect yourself on the streets What you learn and practice in the neighborhood he grew up in The role of history and the impact of slavery on mental health of generations of Black people The number of friends who are incarcerated The role of “chemical imbalance” in the mental health landscape and the family members who have dealt with more serious mental illness Metta’s desire to give back to the mental health community How Metta World Peace is working to solve the problems that lead to poor mental health The meaning of his name and why he changed it Coming together with all types of people Pushing back on separation and division or divisive statements No guns or drugs allowed in my neighborhood Challenging what has been defined as “life” in his neighborhood The lack of connecting resources (like parks) in all neighborhoods The importance of play and letting kids be kids The challenges that Metta World Peace faces in putting forward his message Describing self as emotional and colorful Needing to boost his confidence Mental health stigma before his first disclosure (thanking his therapist in 2010) How people perceive Metta versus how he sees himself interacting in the world Metta World Peace’s vision for the future Everyone has access to mental healthcare Everyone has a chance to have a good life We try to understand each other and what motivates them, what they are going through People coming together to improve society Parenting and partnership training in schools Putting parks in every neighborhood so kids can play, connect, and be kids

What to do when supervision goes bad? A guide to supervision ruptures and repair Curt and Katie chat about what to do when there is a loss of trust in supervision. We explore what has already been researched (and the limitations there). We also look at what can make ruptures more likely, different types of ruptures, and how supervisors can mitigate the risk of rupture and then repair when ruptures inevitably happen. This is a continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about how to address ruptures in clinical supervision Clinical supervision has the potential for errors and requires management from the supervisor to acknowledge, deal with, and repair from mistakes that could rupture the supervisory alliance. This workshop helps to identify the types of ruptures that can occur and offers a strategy on how to deal with them so that they are no longer a problem. What is the focus within the research base on clinical supervision? ·      Most of the research on supervision is focused on clinical supervision without a consideration of the employment element of the relationship ·      There is not a lot of research on supervision, much less ruptures in supervision ·      Much of the research has been from the supervisee perspective, but that is shifting ·      Without supervisors being involved in research, there is a risk of supervisors dismissing it What can make ruptures more likely in supervisory relationships? ·      Power differential within the clinical supervision relationship may lead to supervisees feeling unable to talk about mistakes that supervisors make ·      Expectations of safety and confidentiality that are not discussed or are assumed to be greater than they are, with a lack of transparency ·      Supervisors are responsible to address ruptures, but may not know about them ·      Supervisors can fall into risk management and punishment or not allowing supervisees to do anything that may challenge their skill level What can supervisors do to avoid supervisory ruptures? ·      Acknowledge the fallibility of both the supervisor and the supervisee ·      Supervisors share when they don’t know something and learn what they need to learn to support their supervisee ·      Understanding the impact of each perspective on expectations (i.e., supervisors in agencies are also impacted by the expectations that they have on them from their own supervisors) ·      Identify confrontation versus avoidance rupture risks ·      Being more transparent on the process of supervision and about the supervisor’s competence and emotional responses ·      Understanding and assessing for cultural ruptures, microaggressions, etc. Can supervisory ruptures also happen based on actions of the supervisee? ·      Yes! ·      Supervisees can misunderstand their role and not complete what is expected of them ·      Supervisees can fail to develop as a clinician ·      Supervisees may ask peers rather than their supervisor for what to do and do the wrong things How can supervisors repair the ruptures that happen in clinical supervision? ·      Setting the stage for the most positive supervisory experience ·      Cultural humility ·      Pause, Consider, Reflect, Act (C.E. Watkins, Jr.’s work) Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

An interview with Eboni Harris, Co-Founder of Melanin and Mental Health – Curt and Katie talk with Eboni about people of color, both clients and clinicians, and what therapists often get wrong about cultural competence, continuing education, and the uncomfortable conversations we need to be having to decrease mental health stigma, racism, and ignorance. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Eboni Harris, LPC, LMFT Eboni Harris is a licensed relationship therapist, co-founder of Melanin and Mental Health™, Founder of Room for Relations and host of Room for Relations: Sex and Relationship Podcast. Through her education she has learned the skills and techniques to help individuals and couples love better, stronger and longer. Through life she has learned that taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do for you and the ones you love. Her goal is to help adults communicate with clarity and honesty, love with passion and intention and teach their little ones the value of boundaries, compassion and trust. In this episode we talk about: Eboni’s story and how she came to co-found Melanin and Mental Health Connecting therapists of color to help decrease mental health stigma and improve the quality of clinical care for people of color Creating a directory for clinicians of color Psychology Today’s lack of ethnic diversity on their magazine How it feels to be leading a movement, especially when people don’t get it The Melanin and Mental Health tag line: Therapy is Dope When You Have a Dope Therapist. The types of training and conversations that need to happen to support the increasingly diverse population of clients Cultural humility and cultural competence What therapists get wrong when working cross culturally The damage done when clinicians dismiss race as a factor Lack of understanding of cultural, ethnic, gender identity and impacts on life and in the therapy room Micro-aggressions that can even happen in treatment The problem with referring out all clients of different ethnicities The institutional concerns within the mental health profession that provide obstacles both for clients entering treatment as well as clinicians entering the profession Mental Health Access and the complexity of hiring clinicians or finding therapists who are culturally competent The role that fear and ignorance that can lead to poor interventions Responding as a human being, not a member of the establishment (calling the police, CPS, etc.) Understanding how passive ignorance can be a bigger problem than overt racism Using privilege and access to help solve the problem and be an ally. What needs to change in our profession to better support people of color Understanding healing with a more diverse lens. The importance of understanding your biases Uncomfortable conversations that lead to positive change Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Melanin and Mental Health™ Petition to demand more diversity from Psychology Today Magazine

What Can Therapists Do About the Loneliness Epidemic? Curt and Katie chat about loneliness as a presenting problem in therapy. We explore the misconceptions about loneliness and how therapists often go to fix the problem rather than understand the problem. We also look at the clinical considerations, including gender differences, the impact of Covid-19, and the changes in how people socialize. Finally, we identify treatment strategies to support individuals struggling with loneliness.   Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about how therapists support clients who are lonely There is a loneliness epidemic that is coming into the therapy room a lot and we’ve heard from clients, colleagues, and friends that the first response is “fix it.” We don’t think that’s the strongest move, so we dive into how therapists can more effectively support individuals who are lonely. What are misconceptions about loneliness? ·      It is a normal human feeling and doesn’t always need to be fixed ·      Loneliness is not always related to major depression ·      Loneliness is not the same as isolation, nor is it the same as solitude What are considerations related to loneliness and socialization? ·      The impact of Covid-19 on individuals and on socialization ·      The changes in how people socialize in the modern age ·      Cognitive distortions when one socializes ·      Attachment wounds and differences in how people relate to others ·      Gender differences in connection and expectations about roles in relationships How can a therapist explore with a client their relationship with loneliness? ·      Looking at what people need when feeling loneliness ·      Exploring how understood and seen one feels within their relationships ·      Sorting how one can get their needs met with what is available to them What are the practical considerations needed to address loneliness? ·      Identifying ways to connect with others that fits into time and money parameters ·      Going beyond similar interests and how to find people to truly connect with ·      Exploring coping skills, rejection sensitivity, and self-confidence to set one up for success ·      Looking at how to test new experiences, fail and rebound or succeed and build Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, Erotic Transference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists hold appropriate boundaries? Curt and Katie chat about a disciplinary case against Dr. Eric Bergeman, highlighting key ethical concerns for therapists. They explore documentation practices, therapist responsibilities, and boundary management, particularly in cases involving suicidality and erotic transference. The conversation underscores the importance of clear treatment planning, proper record-keeping, and ethical decision-making to avoid legal and professional consequences. This is a continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about suicidality, erotic transference, between-session communication, and documentation Therapists are given conflicting advice on when their duties to patients begin, how much they are expected to be available to clients outside of sessions, how they are to approach between-session communications, and how to document such communications. This episode explores a disciplinary case where the California Board of Psychology investigated a therapist’s responses to a client that filed a complaint about the therapist’s treatment. What therapists need to know about ethical boundaries and disciplinary actions: The importance of proper documentation and clear treatment planning. How to respond to client suicidality in real-time, including assessment and intervention. Managing erotic transference with ethical boundaries and consultation. The role of Board of Psychology investigations in evaluating therapist conduct. Key Takeaways from Dr. Bergeman’s Disciplinary Case: The Board of Psychology found gross negligence due to poor documentation, inadequate diagnosis, and lack of clear therapeutic boundaries. Dr. Bergeman failed to properly address the client’s suicidality and borderline personality disorder, leading to ethical concerns. Consultation with another therapist revealed concerns about Bergeman’s treatment approach and lack of structured intervention. The Board initially sought a fine of $103,000, later reducing it to $10,363, citing good intentions but significant professional oversights. Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Continuing Education Approvals: Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

You Don’t Have to Be A Thought Leader Curt and Katie chat about the latest pressures on therapists to become “thought leaders.” We look at how thought leadership is defined, what it typically is trying to solve, and other options therapists can take if they aren’t ready to be in the spotlight, start a side hustle, or leave the profession. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The definitions of thought leader Why you must earn the title of thought leader Thought leadership as content marketing Repackaging content, predicting the future, or sharing a brand-new perspective The role of luck in thought leadership The importance of doing “you” whether you choose to use thought leadership or not The option to be a therapist in private practice without doing thought leadership as your form of content marketing Assessing values, skills, and energy in your decision whether you focus on thought leadership Challenging the notion that you have to leave the career if you’re burned out The ability to have hobbies and not monetizing everything Other options to address burnout or financial needs or lack of meaning in your work The myth of passive income and thought leadership as a mechanism to a better life The idea of fixing your business as an alternative The focus on the thoughts as the strongest, most aligned type of thought leadership Force of personality and Cult-like leadership Take an uncomfortable look at where you’re at to determine what you can do going forward Identifying a path forward that doesn’t get you stuck (stepping outside of shoulds) How to assess what is missing or what you’d like to get rid of The concept of self-leadership

An interview with Kristin Martinez, LMFT, about how trauma informed practices apply to the workplace. Curt and Katie talk with Kristin about her person-centered management, the benefits of treating employees well, and the risks of managing individuals as though they were cogs in a machine. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Kristin Martinez, LMFT Kristin Martinez is a licensed therapist who developed a process of management coined: Person Centered Management. She developed Person Centered Management through her own experience and expertise in trauma informed psychotherapy and being a leader in several organizations. Kristin owns a consulting firm and a group therapy practice. Prior to being a business owner, Kristin spent over 10 years in the mental health field as case worker, therapist, and administrator in private, contracted, and government entities. She has experience as a Director in Logistics prior to entering the field of mental health and knows the power of good teaming.   In this episode we talk about: The idea of best practices for workplaces – Trauma Informed Workplaces, Person-centered management How Kristin came to identify the need for trauma informed practices not just with clients, but with the therapists and workforce as well Looking at the community mental health perspective How current practices lead to burnout at all levels How to introduce best practices into public mental health The importance of treating employees as people and developing real relationships with employees A primer on trauma informed perspective Look at context of behavior in order to address things like timeliness The idea of “therapy for the work place” Best practices for supervising and managing The myth that this type of work that focuses on the individual takes more time The risk of burnout and turnover for workplaces that don’t take care of their people How to introduce these concepts into the classroom How to infuse hope into the option of working in community mental health The importance of boundaries, asking for help, understanding expectations The attempts of these agencies to improve employee engagement and supporting the staff to stay longer The danger of the silos that different clinicians can be in (i.e., community mental health, private practice, other types of treatment centers) The benefit of connection with other therapists How processing your own stuff, making sure to consult, and taking time for self-care needs to be incorporated into a trauma-informed workplace Suggestions for group or solo practice owners to incorporate these best practices How Kristin puts her money where her mouth is, in her group practice Looking at how the workplace can impact each individual, looking at trauma responses for everyone involved (every client, every employee, everyone) Kristin believes that therapists are too focused on behavior and symptom reduction The importance of training all staff within interdisciplinary teams, taking care of all staff at levels The hope of transforming workplaces to make our career more sustainable

Interview with Dr. Abigail Weissman Abigail (“Abi”) Weissman is a California clinical psychologist, earning her doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PSY 27497) with a dissertation on helping psychologists to be supporting, respectful, and effective with their transgender Jewish clients. She holds a Master of Arts in Human Sexuality studies that focused on femme lesbian identity and completed a Certificate in Sex Education. She serves as a Member At Large – Professional Practice, of the Board of Directors of the San Diego Psychological Association. She is also the Chair of the LGBT Committee for the San Diego Psychological Association. A self-proclaimed “super queer” she loves to empower others, especially those who wish they could be their full queer, transgender, religious, liberal, activist, polyamorous, and/or kink selves, but hold themselves back because they are scared they will be unloved, unemployed, and rejected by their loved ones and communities. Abi provides individual and group therapy for LGBTQIQAP-identified clients as well as training for other professionals on how to be more LGBTQIQAP-affirming in clinical practice and in business. Her pronouns are she, her hers. You can learn more about Abi and her group practice Waves, A Psychological Corporation, at www.wavespsych.com. In this episode we talk about: Vulnerability during the recent events as a member of impacted, marginalized communities Abi’s comfort level with talking about being Jewish, queer, lesbian, trans (or “trans-esque” in her parlance) How she decides how to present herself, how she tells her story, her level of safety How Abi “leans in” whenever she feels unsafe – how sharing who she is first, makes her feel safer Civil and social justice advocacy as a therapist Her hesitation to talk about LGBTQ as a single community and the problem with “lumping” them all together. The importance of hearing all the different, unique perspectives. Sitting as a leader in your therapy room and feeling vulnerable as the events in society impact you personally Holding hope for therapy clients as well as for society, and grieving for her own losses and feeling her own fears and her own despair Reflecting on the Pittsburgh Tree of Life synagogue shooting as well as reactions to the memo seeking to make gender binary – both how Abi is reacting personally and what she is hearing (and not hearing) from her clients Where Abi is finding her hope, healing, and getting her support The ways that antisemitism still shows up in daily life (even in small ways) Having to choose how she shows up as an activist with these intersectional needs that aren’t respected How thoughtful she is about where she lives and what she stands up and does for her community What therapists often get wrong related to LGBTQ The frequent problem of othering people within the therapist community who happen to be LGBTQ   Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Waves, A Psychological Corporation: www.wavespsych.com Abi’s availability for consultation: https://www.wavespsych.com/contact The book Abi was talking about related to bringing ancestors into the room: Native American Postcolonial Psychology By Eduardo Duran, Bonnie Duran   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/  

The Practicalities of Mental Health and Gender Affirming Care for Trans Youth: An Interview with Jordan Held, LCSW An Interview with Jordan Held, LCSW Jordan Held (he/him/his), LCSW is a Primary Therapist and Gender Specialist at Visions Adolescent Treatment Center. Prior to Visions, Jordan was a Therapist and Intake Coordinator at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in the Center for Trans Youth Health and Development, the largest trans youth health clinic in the USA. Jordan’s mental health practice centers around creating a trauma-informed and healing-centered space for both adolescents and their families. Jordan’s expertise is working with gender and sexual minority youth with complex histories of PTSD and trauma. Jordan speaks internationally about creating and supporting affirmative LGBTQ+ environments with an emphasis on informed consent and enhanced family communication. As a queer-identified, transgender man, Jordan brings an important dual perspective to his work as a mental health provider. Prior to social work, Jordan worked extensively in secondary school education, with a decade of experience teaching, coaching, and developing health and wellness curricula. Jordan’s work focuses on gender violence prevention, diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultivating strength and belonging for teens. Jordan is on the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the Laurel Foundation, JQ International, and Mental Health America of Los Angeles. Jordan is also a long-time facilitator at Transforming Family, a support group for gender-diverse youth and their family.  In this podcast episode, we talk about trans mental health What is gender-affirmative care? The way that “gender affirming care” is being taken out of context What is actually happening, how it has been politicized The misinformation related to what is available to children who are exploring their gender (i.e., parental consent and youth care) The role of therapists versus the role of medical providers Discussion of gender norms Different types of transition for trans individuals Social transition (name, pronouns, clothes, haircut) Medical interventions that may start during puberty (i.e., puberty blockers, progesterone only birth control) Cross sex hormones and surgeries (which actually require a long process) States are very specific for what they require for gender care (as do insurance companies) Conversations in therapy for trans youth Gender journey Meeting the kids where they’re at Lying to get what they need Letters and recommendations for surgery The gender dysphoria diagnosis and sorting that out from depression, anxiety, etc. Supporting trans youth with social transition and getting the support they need The concerns with maladaptive coping skills available online Positive resources for trans youth (scroll down to resources) Identity and impacts The Politicization of Trans Individuals Jordan grew in privilege when he transitioned Legislation Schools removing conversations related to gender and sexuality Play and sports being withheld from trans kids Bias and how being trans is perceived The actual numbers of trans folks who want to play sports or want to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity Advice for trans kids and families where gender care is illegal, advice for therapists Age limits and laws that don’t align with logic Culture, privilege, and being trans Increasing or decreasing privilege when one transitions Getting used to the changed dynamic within society based on external experience The complexity of the experience and the changing of the experience The concept of “passing” and how it taps into bias

Serious Mental Illness and Homelessness An interview with California State Senator Henry Stern and Dr. Curley Bonds, Chief Medical Officer for Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health about legislation and programmatic changes needed to better serve highly vulnerable individuals. Curt and Katie talk with both Senator Stern and Dr. Bonds about the limitations of Laura’s Law and the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act as well as the hope for stronger, more collaborative mental health initiatives for individuals grappling with serious mental illness and homelessness. We talk about the practical funding and workforce concerns as well as how to fix them while also supporting mental health professionals.  Curley L. Bonds, M.D., oversees all clinical practices for the Los Angeles Country Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) as well as the full range of programs that function to engage and stabilize clients by bringing them into the Department’s community-based system of care. In this episode we talk about: Continuing our special series on Fixing Mental Healthcare in America What the ideal mental health care can look like for individuals with serious mental illness, substance abuse treatment, and navigating homelessness The siloed nature of services at present The importance of consistent engagement and familiarity Recovery-oriented and person-centered care The importance of self-directed care Wraparound services The importance of engaging people with lived experience Culturally responsive services The current laws protect autonomy without the means to support people without capacity The bureaucracy that is keeping people from getting the services they need Changes to Laura’s Law and LPS Act that are needed to better serve individuals with grave disability or require conservatorship Engagement, rights, and how to better serve individuals Assisted Outpatient Treatment – how it can be best utilized and most effective The ability to shift things through budget and regulatory changes The understanding that current caseloads that are too high and the need to add resources Alternatives to long term conservatorship The willingness to invest in services and solutions Balancing the tension between self-advocacy/self-determination versus providing care Mental Health Advanced Directives as a tool to help with making these decisions Who can and should be at the table in making these decisions The desire to invest in people to provide services Whether to invest and how to assess efficacy The problem of the fragmented systems and communication about mental health advanced directives The importance of education for people needing and providing care on the options Looking at the benefits and “selling” the positive elements of assisted treatment Letting clinicians do clinical work – why that’s important and ideas of how to make it work Tracking outcomes effectively while diminishing bureaucracy Looking at the most effective goals and outcomes for clients Looking at unfunded mandates and how to support therapists and clients to get services without so much paper pushing and complicated outcomes Having service providers at the table to create the programs effectively Results-driven metrics and payment (the pros and cons) Addressing policy and stigma Looking at the problems with the current process for services and conservatorship Ideas for redirecting funding and working in collaboration with law enforcement How to take part in these efforts and weigh in on legislation, especially early in the process Our reflections on the interviews and the next steps

Is Your Informed Consent Based on Magical Thinking? Curt and Katie chat about the strange, manipulative, or outright illegal and unethical policies that therapists put into their informed consent. We talk through court, payment, and jurisdictional policies (among others), exploring why these policies are so bad. We also give some advice on what to do instead.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about the ridiculous things therapists put in their informed consent An old article from our friends over at CPH resurfaced talking about all the ways that therapists try to skirt laws or mandates with their informed consent. We thought some of this stuff sounded a bit like magical thinking.  What goes into an informed consent? ·      Policies and procedures ·      Risks and benefits for treatment ·      Social media and court policies ·      More information here: What are the biggest concerns with therapist informed consent? ·      Forcing clients to sign illegal policies is in fact illegal ·      Putting undue force onto a client is wrong ·      Court avoidance clauses are not realistic and may be illegal ·      There are limits to the fee structures you can have clients agree to ·      You have to complete your legal responsibilities, even if a client signs something that says you do not have to do so ·      You can’t have someone agree to waive jurisdiction when they travel or consent to calling your services something different What do therapists need to do with their informed consent? ·      Make sure you don’t have any illegal or unethical practices in your informed consent ·      Don’t try to “game” the system to protect yourself from your legal and ethical responsibilities Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

An Expert Witness Weighs in on Therapist Malpractice: An interview with Dr. Frederic Reamer Curt and Katie interview Dr. Frederic Reamer about his perspective as an expert witness opining on therapist conduct. We talk about the three types of cases he sees (mistakes, challenging decisions, and misconduct) as well as what therapists can do to protect and set themselves up for success.    Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we share an expert witness perspective on therapist mistakes Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Frederic Reamer about how therapists can get in trouble as well as what an expert witness does when evaluating these therapist mistakes.   What do Expert Witness do for cases involving therapists? ·      Evaluate malpractice and standard of care ·      Opine on whether therapists have acted appropriately in their role as professionals ·      Reviewing records, reports, depositions, and testifying on trial What are the different types of cases that are brought against therapists? ·      Good people making mistakes ·      Challenging ethical dilemmas (i.e., making a decision that is not wrong, but leads to a bad outcome) ·      Misconduct (e.g., having sex with clients, inappropriate dual relationships, impaired therapists) How can therapists set themselves up to avoid getting sued or licensing board complaints? ·      Appropriate documentation ·      Consultation with colleagues or supervisors (and document this consultation) ·      Have sufficient malpractice insurance Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Conspiracy Theories in Your Office Curt and Katie chat about clients who bring conspiracy theories into therapy. We talk about differentiating between psychosis and believing in conspiracy theories, the characteristics of folks who may be likely to subscribe to these theories, and the importance of the relationship in working with these folks. We also look at steps we would like professional organizations to take to support clinicians. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: How to handle when clients bring conspiracy theories into your office Distinguishing between delusions, shared psychosis, and conspiracy theories Reality testing, obsessive research, and other factors that may distinguish between psychosis and conspiracy theory The impact of internet research and social media algorithms The characteristics of folks who are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories How fear of uncertainty, lack of trust can play into this dynamic Societal impacts like advertising certainty The different responsibility that therapists have when someone brings in a conspiracy theory Hesitation in addressing these theories both in the room and at the professional org level The continuum of engagement with conspiracy theories (from “entertainment” to going down the rabbit hole) The level of investment in the theory, groups forming around these theories, and cults The risk factors and legal/ethical responsibilities related to harm Allen Lipscomb’s BRUH modality (Bonding Recognition Understanding and Healing) The problem with direct challenging The importance of identifying is it a conspiracy theory or is someone actually out to get you, especially with clients who are in traditionally marginalized communities Building trust within the relationship through deep understanding of the client’s experiences Societal measures that can help (like deplatforming leaders of the theories) Starting from compassion and curiosity; managing reactions Exploring the nuance of challenging irrational fears versus conspiracy theories Seeking common ground and identifying impacts The call to action to professional organizations for guidance and taking a stance (and the understanding of why they balk at doing so)

Therapists Are Not Robots: How We Can Show Humanity in the Room Curt and Katie discuss how big life events (a big diagnosis, a huge personal loss, injuries and medical conditions) can show up in the room. We explore how much humanity is okay to share with our clients. How do we decide what we tell our clients (and how do we manage their reactions)? We also look at how we take care of ourselves while also taking care of our clients. Therapists aren't robots, but we certainly need to be aware of our clients when life happens.  In this podcast episode we talk about appropriate self-disclosure practices for modern therapists going through life events As therapists it’s important that we hold a professional exterior during therapy. But can it be helpful to share with clients the big moments in our lives? How can we be human in the room? What are some considerations for therapists when deciding to self-disclose? Showing your humanity can help bond a client with the therapist. Self-disclosure may be different for planned or unplanned life events and whether they come into the room or private/hidden and in the background of your life Deciding when and whether to tell clients Clients often will use the therapist as an example on how to handle big life events. Not all settings are appropriate for therapist disclosure. Clients do not have the same confidentiality requirements as therapists; if you self-disclose to a client, it could be known by others or other treatment team members. In self-disclosing, the therapist will need to process the disclosure with the client. Processing difficult personal material with multiple clients could be difficult for the therapist. How much you disclose will depend on the client, but you might share more with a long-term client than a newer client. Are there ethical considerations for therapists sharing about our lives? There are no BBS outlined ethical considerations for sharing personal disclosures in therapy. The therapeutic environment should encourage a client to question the therapist. The therapeutic environment should encourage clients to participate in self-advocacy. Remember that certain self-disclosures might be triggering for clients; be mindful of what you share with who. Document all ruptures in relationships in your note and what you did to help heal the rupture. Be mindful - clients could be retraumatized or try to care take after a therapist’s disclosure. Not all clients need to know everything; know your population. What should new counselors and therapists know? Therapists are human! Life will continue to affect you even while working. It is important for therapists to take time off when they need it. Ruptures in the therapeutic relationship will happen; it’s all about how you handle it. New counselors often want hard rules for how to act, but it gets easier with experience. The most damage happens from not acknowledging or apologizing for ruptures. When ruptures occur, be honest and accountable to your clients. Sharing our human moments with clients can create a deeper and richer relationship. Don’t forget you don’t have to do this alone – always consult if unsure on disclosures! Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Struggles of the Novice Counselor and Therapist by Thomas M. Skovholt and Michael H. Rønnestad Abstract: Shared Trauma: The Therapist’s Increased Vulnerability by Dr. Karen W. Saakvitne

An interview with Barbara Griswold, LMFT – Curt and Katie talk with Barbara about what it is really like to have an insurance-based private practice. We look at the common myths and strategies to navigate taking insurance.    It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Barbara Griswold, MFT, practice consultant, and author Barbara Griswold, MFT, is a practice consultant and the author of Navigating the Insurance Maze: The Therapist's Complete Guide to Working with Insurance -- And Whether You Should (www.theinsurancemaze.com), now in the newly-updated seventh edition.  She invites therapists to contact her through her website to get answers to insurance questions, for practice-building support, and to subscribe to her free monthly e-newsletter to keep abreast of the ever-changing world of insurance.  In private practice in San Jose, California, Barbara has been interviewed on NPR's “Morning Edition," and her articles have appeared in Psychotherapy Networker and The Therapist magazines.  She is a past member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapist’s State Ethics Committee and Board of Directors, and former Oral Licensing Examiner for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. In this episode we talk about: The impressions that we often have about taking insurance Why to take insurance: Accessibility of services, full practice with a waitlist without a waitlist, trade off on costs and fees taken The small marketing steps needed to maximize insurance practices: provider directories, website Expanding your practice beyond wealthy clients – increasing diversity and accessibility, capacity for long-term therapy Taking insurance without selling your soul Barbara never makes a clinical decision based on insurance Sorting through the common myths about taking insurance What makes you appealing to insurance panels Requirements for getting onto panels The online “filing cabinet” for applying for insurance – CAQH The importance of niche and specialization – even for insurance Strategies for pointing out your value to insurance panels Learning what the contracted fee is on an insurance panel and how to negotiate up front How to ask insurance panels for a raise The real truth about the paperwork Improving reimbursement rates and timeline to be paid Using an insurance biller What to do when insurance panels say they are not accepting new providers in your area   Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists) CAQH Navigating the Insurance Maze: The Therapist's Complete Guide to Working with Insurance -- And Whether You Should (www.theinsurancemaze.com) Office Ally Barbara’s Insurance Billers Referral List Barbara’s Webinar on Progress Notes Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

An interview with Nicol Stolar-Peterson, LCSW, BCD, Expert Witness aka The Court Chick, on how to prepare for court, what to put in your court policy for your informed consent, and how she created an alternative revenue stream. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Nicol Stolar-Peterson, LCSW Nicol Stolar-Peterson, LCSW, BCD is an expert witness as it relates to child abuse, sexual abuse, CPS, family violence and child custody. She worked for CPS for over 11.5 years as an investigator, forensic interviewer and adoptions social worker. Nicol is the founder and director of Kids Court & Counseling Center, 501c3, that helps children prepare for court testimony and appearances if they are victims of crimes, witnesses to crimes, in foster care and/or going through a litigious custody battle where testimony occurs. Nicol is appointed as the court’s expert on family law matters as the designated child custody evaluator. Nicol also enjoys speaking on the concept of “the permission to succeed and the risk of being happy.” Her book is coming out in 2019 and guess what the title is? “The permission to succeed and the risk of being happy.” Nicol also sells Rodan & Fields as an independent consultant and helps other’s build a business of residual income around their families and their lives. This is a complete departure from her “day job” and it brings her joy and inspiration helping other’s build their own business. You can find Nicol at www.therapistcourtprep.com and www.nicol.live.      In this episode we talk about: Nicol’s story of how and why she became interested in court How Nicol created Therapist Court Prep Court Policy to put into Informed Consent What needs to be discussed at the beginning of treatment related to court, writing letters, etc. Do NOT ignore your subpoenas Setting fees for court-related activities (can do flat rate) Going to court is not our job Scope of practice, dual relationships related to court-requirements Do not make a child-custody recommendation unless you are appointed by the court The importance of getting clear on what you can do as a therapist, counselor, social worker, psychologist How the therapeutic alliance causes bias in a legal setting Observation versus Opinion – and how you can get in trouble when you add your opinion into custody cases Imagine reading letter on the stand to determine what you should be putting in that letter The threat of a bench warrant when you ignore subpoenas Litigious times when clients weaponize therapists Subpoena for records does not mean a treatment summary When in court, don’t guess – say I don’t know Don’t try to hide treatment information How to set court rates, rates for writing letters The value of preparation when going to court What to wear for court Success stories from court   Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links: Zynnyme Sherry Shockey-Pope and Therapist Practice in a Box Evidence Code 730 CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists) Legal Advice Free Court Letter Cheat Sheet on Therapist Court Prep Dr. Pamela Harmell  Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

How to Fire Your Clients (Ethically) Curt and Katie chat about how to appropriately terminate with clients when icky situations arise. We explore how therapists can develop an ethical decision-making process to protect themselves against possible complaints to ethics boards. We also talk about how privilege plays a role in icky terminations and how therapists can work to balance their safety and self-care with their responsibilities. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: How ethics are discussed in social media groups (ethical concerns vs. I don’t like this) When we can terminate with clients, why can we do it, when we cannot terminate with clients, and what our responsibilities are in these situations. How therapist’s personal feelings can influence premature terminations and the problems this can lead to (e.g., client abandonment, continuity of care). Feelings that arise for both the therapist and client when icky terminations happen. How ethics committees think about complaints and disciplinary actions. Developing an ethical decision-making process that demonstrates professionalism. Explore how therapists are held to a higher standard than the general public. Discuss how privilege (or lack thereof) impacts perceptions professionalism. How to maintain professional standards when your safety is at risk. Developing plans for possible icky terminations. We look at how many therapists are actually reported to ethics boards and how this information is unhelpful. Managing racist, homophobic, sexist, etc. comments in session and taking care of yourself. Explore how the structure of ethics committees create barriers to therapists being their authentic self, while also needing these committees to protect the field. Balancing therapist safety and self-care with therapist responsibilities. Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below might be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! CPH Article: Duty to the Patient – Termination of Treatment and Understanding Your Patient Relevant Episodes: Therapist Safety Managing Vicarious Trauma Bad Business Practices Ending Therapy Noteworthy Documentation Irrational Ethics That’s Unethical Connect with us! Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapists Group Get Notified About Therapy Reimagined 2021  Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour

More Than Cogs in the Machine: Bringing trauma-informed principles into the workplace Curt and Katie chat about trauma-informed workplaces. We explore what a trauma informed workplace is, why it is important to implement, and how best to do so. We also explore some practical challenges to creating a trauma-informed workplace and ideas for how to handle these challenges. This is a continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about how to create a trauma-informed workplace People affected by trauma are expected to perform in the workplace, but often have difficulty with environments that treat them as replaceable. This can lead to employee underperformance, burnout, and turnover in the workforce. Healthy interactions with the workplace can help both the individual and corporate performance. This workshop addresses principles and practices that allow for employers to create a trauma informed workplace. What is a trauma-informed workplace? ·       Remembering that all workers are human ·       Collaboration and encouraging autonomy for employees ·       Acknowledging that trauma exists for everyone ·       Trauma is addressed in the workplace (e.g., mitigating secondary or vicarious trauma) ·       4 R’s of Trauma can give guidance to how to identify and respond to trauma ·       Supportive policies go beyond self-care ·       There is a systemic mechanism to support staff and improve ·       Based in trust and trustworthiness What are the risks of not having a trauma-informed workplace? ·       Lower employee productivity, lower quality work ·       Higher levels of burnout, absenteeism, presenteeism ·       Recreating past traumas when we’re not aware of the dynamics in play How can therapists create and benefit from a trauma-informed workplace? ·       Create supportive policies and procedures ·       Evaluate how well trauma informed principles are being implemented ·       We discuss an evaluation tool for this purpose ·       CTIPP Toolkit (Campaign for Trauma Informed Practice and Policies) ·       Acknowledge shared humanity ·       Creating connection and collaboration between team members ·       This may be something that needs to be repaired or built within a workplace that has problems ·       Understanding how to build, sustain trust, and effectively take feedback and implement it ·       Transparency and accountability What are some challenges in implementing a Trauma-Informed Workplace? ·       Very challenging conversations needing repeated repair ·       Avoiding conversations about trauma ·       Digging deeply into emotional life of employees (i.e., with the potential of HR violations) ·       Practical limitations to what employers can provide to their employees ·       Us versus them mentalities and not seeing opportunities to collaborate Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide CAMFT CEPA: Therapy Reimagined is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LPCCs, LCSWs, and LEPs (CAMFT CEPA provider #132270). Therapy Reimagined maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Courses meet the qualifications for the listed hours of continuing education credit for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. We are working on additional provider approvals, but solely are able to provide CAMFT CEs at this time. Please check with your licensing body to ensure that they will accept this as an equivalent learning credit. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/  

An interview with Shira Myrow, LMFT about how therapists carry a mental load for their clients, in addition to the load they carry as entrepreneurs and people. Curt and Katie talk with Shira about how to identify (and intervene) when therapists uncover this dangerous burden. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Shira Myrow, LMFT  Shira Myrow is a licensed marriage and family therapist, mindfulness educator and founder of the mindfulness based Yale St. Therapy Group based in Santa Monica where she works in private practice. Shira specializes in relationship intelligence—treating couples and marriages with a focus on rebuilding attunement, improving attachment, and creating emotional literacy. Shira also works with individuals in transition looking for love, in break up recovery or going through divorce. Shira has a special focus on treating adult children of severely mentally ill parents with attachment injuries, including parents with borderline personality disorder, bi-polar and schizophrenia. Shira is also a writer and a regular contributor for Goop online magazine. You can learn more about Shira and contact her here: Website www.shiramyrowtherapy.com/ Email: therapy.smyrow@gmail.com Instagram: @shiramyrowlmft, @yalesstreettherapy In this episode we talk about: The definition of Mental Load, with some of the history of the concept Curt’s admission that Katie is carrying the mental load of this business relationship Invisible emotional labor of managing daily lives and relationships The invisible emotional load that therapists carry for clients and how that might be leading to less respect from other medical professionals How the mental load from work can negatively impact personal life The importance of intentional disconnection from the work when going home. How the mental load can stay in your body, even when you mentally or emotionally disconnect from the work How mindfulness can help address this challenge The danger of privileging productivity above all else The idea of how to incorporate this knowledge into therapist training The complexity of business ownership, modern life, the connectedness afforded by technology The onslaught of information that we get as individuals in the world AND as therapists Attunement and presence in session, with self-regulation, so you can do the work without feeling cold and disconnected Allowing versus suppressing emotions – so you can observe and have emotions pass Tips for identifying when the mental load is having an impact, how to prevent or respond The negative impact of stress on our bodies How society has acclimated to unhealthy levels of stress and technology The unreasonable expectations that come from being plugged in Losing empathy and connection The human struggle to incorporate mindfulness Economy of effort “Life shouldn’t be reduced to a to do list” - Shira Myrow

How Therapists Promote Diet Culture: An interview with Rachel Coleman Curt and Katie speak with Rachel Coleman, LMFT, CEDS about what therapists should consider in working with clients who have eating disorders, the impact of society on body image, and how clinicians can increase their competency in an area many feel they are lacking. Why do so many clinicians feel under trained in treating eating disorders? How do societal views impact our client’s body image and what is the impact of diet culture? Does a lack of graduate education in eating disorders ethically impact our ability to treat eat disorders in a non-specialized practice? What’s missing from our understanding of eating disorders? All of this and more in the episode. Interview with Rachel Coleman, LMFT, CEDS What do clinicians do when therapeutic interventions might trigger eating disorder behavior? Many interventions call for physical activity that might trigger eating disorder behavior or feelings in clients. If a client wants to participate in a physical activity intervention, consider their motivation. Ensure that a client has multiple tools in their anxiety toolbox. Be mindful if the modalities and treatment recommendations are based in fat phobia or weight stigma. How can clinicians assess their clients for an eating disorder? Eating disorders can present meeting full DSM-V criteria or, in many cases, seem at the “subclinical” or mildly clinical level. Evaluate how your client feels about societal messaging and the impact it might have on them. In assessing clients, look to determine the impact of behaviors and patterns on daily functioning. If client’s are sacrificing other values to focus on weight or body, it should be discussed. How can clinicians increase their education in treating eating disorders? Clinicians need to do their own work surrounding their bodies and internalized messaging. Therapists should focus on learning about the complexities of eating disorders and the social justice movements that surround weight stigma and fat phobia. Familiarize yourself with the ideas of body trust, body neutrality, and health at every size. Many treatment centers offer free webinars to educate clinicians in eating disorder treatment. What are the ethical and legal considerations in treating eating disorders in a non-specialized private practice? Always get consultation. Some clients might present with “subclinical” or mildly clinical levels of an eating disorder. There is a difference between asking questions and treating the answers. Clinicians should encourage clients to see a medical doctor when necessary. Working with dieticians and medical doctors to create a holistic team, best serves the client. Clinicians should be aware when to refer to a higher level of care. Therapists should limit self-disclosures How does Diet Culture impact our clients? Diet culture is a mindset and system of theories we all exist in, that credits a person’s shape and size as the primary indicators of health and moral superiority. When bodies don’t meet these “standards” of beauty as societally defined, they are often oppressed. Messaging about dieting and our bodies is inescapable in our society, so it’s easy for subconscious beliefs about food and bodies to infiltrate sessions. Therapists’ self-disclosures should be limited and focus on affirming client’s experience.

An interview with Norine Vander Hooven, LCSW about therapists who become suicidal. Curt and Katie interview Norine on the risk factors that therapists face as well as how we can support each other in our community. We talk about prevention, interventions with a colleague, and how to manage when a colleague dies by suicide.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Norine Vander Hooven, LCSW Norine Vander Hooven is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been in practice for 32 years. She specializes in trauma, anxiety, suicide prevention, and life transitions. Norine is also certified in EMDR therapy, and is in training to be an EMDR therapy consultant. She uses this to work with people with PTSD, anxiety, and traumatic life events. Norine provides clinical consultation for therapists, as well as she works with young adults and adults in her private practice. Learn more at norinevanderhooven.com In this episode we talk about: Following up on a previous episode, Therapist Suicide. Looking at supervisors who have died by suicide The lack of research and data regarding therapist suicide (both ideation and completion) The fear and stigma about disclosing suicidal ideation and attempts for therapists The difference between therapists and others in suicide risk Heightened risk factors for therapists How therapists take in the work with their clients The isolation and lack of support that can happen with therapists Suggestions for therapists to address suicidal thoughts, isolation, loneliness Belonging, Burden, and Capability The importance of community and consultation The suggestion to be in your own therapy Incorporating self-care even down to the small moments during the work day How to incorporate knowledge about the challenge of the profession into our educational system The shame therapists feel (both perceived and actual) about mental health challenges How to support therapists who might be experiencing suicidal thoughts How to provide therapy to therapists, incorporating conversations and assessment about suicide from the beginning, normalizing the experience and challenge of being a therapist Supporting therapists in our community Planning for postvention – comprehensive conversations after therapists have clients die by suicide or other big events in our colleagues’ lives The importance of normalizing the feelings that therapists could be presenting with in consultation groups What can we do when one of our colleagues die by suicide The typical reactions and responses from colleagues, clients, and community members Preparing to have a conversation with a client whose therapist has died by suicide

It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when therapists must develop a personal brand to market their practices. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Paul Gilmartin We so enjoyed talking with Paul! From 1995 to 2011 Paul Gilmartin co-hosted TBS’ Dinner and a Movie and has been a stand-up comedian since 1987. His credits include Comedy Central Presents: Paul Gilmartin, numerous Bob and Tom albums, comedy festivals and the Late Show with Craig Ferguson. Paul is a recovering alcoholic/addict and has been sober since 2003. He is also an incest survivor and has been in treatment for depression since 1999. He is a big believer in therapy and support groups. Paul hosts a weekly audio podcast, The Mental Illness Happy Hour, consisting of interviews with artists, friends, listeners and the occasional mental health professional about all the battles in our heads; from medically diagnosed conditions, past traumas and sexual dysfunction to everyday compulsive, negative thinking.  It gets about 600,000 downloads per month, has a 5/5 iTunes rating where it frequently occupies the top spot in Self-Help, was chosen by Esquire as one of the best podcasts of 2016 and is featured in the 2013 PBS Documentary "A New State of Mind." You can learn more about Paul and The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast here: www.mentalpod.com. In this episode we talk about: How Paul’s experience of covert incest and battle with depression led to creating The Mental Illness Happy Hour Paul’s mission to decrease mental health stigma and provide a virtual support group The power of conversation and community The importance of empathy and validation How therapists connect best with their clients The survey Paul has on his website about what therapists are doing right and what they are really doing wrong. What therapists are often missing when they become distracted or forgetful How damaging it is when therapists minimize their client’s feelings, trauma, and abuse The importance of overcoming “you’re only nice to me because I pay you” for therapists  Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. The Mental Illness Happy Hour Podcast (Katie’s Episode on Mental Pod) The First Day in Therapy Survey Curt’s almost weekly mention of Scott Miller and his work The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/  

Beware of Scams Targeting Therapists Curt and Katie discuss common scams that specifically target therapists. We look at how to identify scams or sketchy business practices that can be very confusing as well as dangerous to clinicians. We also talk about how to protect yourself as well as solid business practices that you can implement to stave off some of these scammers.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about scams that target therapists We have heard about a lot of scams in our careers. We figured it was time to do another “survival guide” episode on how to protect ourselves as therapists. What are the most common scams targeting therapists? Information used from popular therapist directories Claiming to be a law enforcement professional, missed court date, or the IRS Image copyright infringement Businesses that target you to charge them for things that are free or with another company Clients or people seeking therapy for family members and then overpay and ask for a refund Text messages or emails with unsolicited links that can leave malware on your computer Phishing schemes Testing stolen credit cards or stolen identities How can modern therapists protect ourselves from these scams? Get into wise mind (avoid responding to false urgency) Go through official channels (contact actual officials) Contact an attorney if unsure Understand how legal notices are properly delivered Caution with financial systems and not allowing people to pay upfront Requiring person seeking services to contact therapist Cyber security trainings Communicating appropriately and consistently Holding to systems and boundaries Make sure to share these scams with professional organizations, the official entity, or your licensing board Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Abundance Practice Building Article on Copyright Infringement From Joe Borders: Currently Active Scams Targeting Therapists From APA: Protect your practice from scams targeting psychologists From APA: More reports surface of telephone scammers targeting psychologists From the SF Chronicle: ‘He held me hostage with no gun but with his words’: The phone scam gaslighting therapists From Counseling Today: Technology Tutor: Scams aimed at counselors From Psych Today: The Phone Scam That Targets Psychologists From CPH & Associates: Scam Targeting Therapists: What You Need to Know From 10News.Com: The jury duty scam you should know about

What if you hate private practice? Curt and Katie chat about the realities of private practice and why it isn’t the idyllic career path it’s often made out to be. We dig into reasons therapists may dislike private practice, like financial instability, isolation, lack of accountability, and ethical concerns. We also share ways therapists can navigate these hurdles and find fulfillment in their work.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk through what makes owning a private practice hard We have seen both overly effusive (“living my best life”) and hopeless (“I will never be successful in private practice”) feedback about being in private practice. But what is it really like? AND if you don’t like private practice is that okay? We decided to dig into what makes being a private practitioner challenging. Doesn’t everyone LOVE private practice? ·       There are a lot of reasons people choose private practice as their job ·       Private practice is hard ·       Private practice isn’t for everyone Financial Instability is unavoidable in private practice ·       Private practice income can be unpredictable, often lacking benefits and paid time off ·       Therapists may need outside financial support to mitigate these challenges ·       Starting a private practice easily can rely on financial or able-bodied privilege ·       Charging high fees and navigating ethical dilemmas can challenge therapists’ sense of fulfillment and values. Owning a Private Practice comes with Business Challenges ·       With limited business training in grad school, therapists often struggle with marketing, setting up systems, and attracting clients. ·       Therapists can overthink how they set up their practice, causing delays and inefficiency Many Private Practice Clinicians experience isolation ·       Private practice can feel lonely ·       Networking, consultation groups, and in-person connections are essential for combating isolation. Private practice can be boring or monotonous ·       If you are tightly niched or work only with the worried well, you may encounter little clinical challenge ·       If you are only doing one to one work, you may desire more diversity of tasks to stay interested (like teaching, podcasting, etc.) If you own your own business, figure out how to deal with accountability issues ·       Without structured oversight, therapists may face difficulties staying organized or motivated, which can lead to burnout ·       Depending on who you talk with, you might convince yourself that no one is caught up on notes or paying their taxes on time – which isn’t accurate. What can therapists do to make private practice better? ·       Network and nurture social and professional support ·       Get systems set up (and make them as simple as possible) to streamline your work ·       Think about diversifying what you do, to keep yourself engaged with the work Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Infertility and Pregnancy Loss An interview with Tracy Gilmour-Nimoy, LMFT, on understanding infertility as well as pregnancy and infant loss. Curt and Katie interview Tracy, a certified perinatal mental health professional, on what the medical and mental health professions often miss related to reproductive health and pregnancy. We dig into the basics and common mistakes as well as the harm caused when therapists are uninformed. We explore trauma, grief, and the invisibility of these common struggles faced by some who want to have children.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Tracy Gilmour-Nimoy, LMFT and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional Tracy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional. She has a group practice in San Diego, CA, where she specializes in working with individuals who have experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, reproductive mental health, perinatal mental health, maternal mental health, paternal mental health, grief, loss, life transitions, and relational challenges, to name a few. In addition to her love of mental health, Tracy is an avid reader and writer. Her articles have appeared on her mental health blog and other public forums, such as Scary Mommy. She writes about varying mental health topics, as well as her personal experiences of infant loss, grief, and trauma. To learn more about Tracy, connect with her on Instagram @TGNtherapy In this episode we talk about: What we missed in our episode about navigating pregnancy How hidden infertility and pregnancy loss is in society, how the conversation is taboo The lack of trauma-informed care within the medical field The problems of assumptions around fertility and whether people want children The way that common questions can be triggering and traumatizing How dismissive of the grief people are when it deals with infant and pregnancy loss The rose-tinted lenses that hurt women during the whole process of getting pregnant and having a baby How hidden it is and how little discussed are all the stages of women’s development The gaps in therapist training related to infertility and pregnancy/infant loss The focus on the baby versus the parent Ideas for advocacy within the educational and medical systems The discomfort with sitting with these types of experiences and losses The tendency of people wanting to fix it and move forward without accounting for loss and recognizing when it cannot be fixed The shadow losses and losses of an absence Holding space for grief and loss, for how horrible it is What therapists need to know about infertility The importance of understanding the medical terminology, the financial burden, the emotional implications of the fertility process The internal focus on how the body works and what to do for your body The identity aspects related to motherhood or not becoming a mother What therapists need to know about pregnancy and infancy loss The perception of the death of their child Traditions to honor the child who didn’t come home The importance of remembering dates for individuals who have infant and pregnancy loss Acknowledging loss, using language or names that are relevant Honoring how they view their parental status after a loss

It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Why people become supervisors Models of supervision The importance of good supervision What makes supervision ineffective The problem with the notion of “training the competition” or seeing supervisees money making machines How to nurture the next generation Finding the right supervisor/supervisee match The different aspects of supervision: administrative, clinical, professional development, consumer protection Differences between public mental health and private practice supervision Our anger about people taking advantage of prelicensees The importance of following employment law How supervision impacts the profession The difference between therapy and supervision What supervisees are responsible for (and what they shouldn’t be responsible for, but often are) School and supervisors passing the buck – you should learn about this in school, they should train you in supervision Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists) Certified Supervision Program The Developmental Model of Supervision Reflective Supervision Recovery-Oriented Supervision Trauma-Informed Supervision Seven-Eyed Supervision Model by Hawkins and Shohet Curt’s Supervision Workshop: Supervision in Private Practice: Legal & Ethical Issues Our events this year: The Brand Called “You”: Legal & Ethical Issues in Developing a Personal Brand The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!  Who we are: Curt Widhalm is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in the Los Angeles area. He is a Board Member at Large for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Adjunct Faculty at Pepperdine University, and a loving husband and father. He is 1/2 great person, 1/2 provocateur, and 1/2 geek, in that order. He dabbles in the dark art of making "dad jokes" and usually has a half-empty cup of coffee somewhere nearby. Learn more at: www.curtwidhalm.com Katie Vernoy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, coach, and consultant. As a helping professional for two decades, she’s navigated the ups and downs of our unique line of work. She’s run her own solo therapy practice, designed innovative clinical programs, built and managed large, thriving teams of service providers, and consulted hundreds of helping professionals on how to build meaningful AND sustainable practices. In her spare time, Katie is secretly siphoning off Curt's youthful energy, so that she can take over the world. Learn more at: www.katievernoy.com A Quick Note: Our opinions are our own. We are only speaking for ourselves – except when we speak for each other, or over each other. We’re working on it. Our guests are also only speaking for themselves and have their own opinions. We aren’t trying to take their voice, and no one speaks for us either. Mostly because they don’t want to, but hey.   Stay in Touch: www.mtsgpodcast.com www.therapyreimagined.com https://www.facebook.com/therapyreimagined/ https://twitter.com/therapymovement https://www.instagram.com/therapyreimagined/   Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Curt and Katie talk about how therapists’ outside passions and pursuits can come into the therapy room. We talk about the thought, consideration, and intention that can help these elevate your practice, rather than hurt your clients.    It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Curt’s obsession with running marathons and talking about running in his therapy sessions How your outside identity, hobbies, obsessions, etc. can impact your therapy sessions, your branding How to identify if you can bring your outside stuff into the room Acknowledging things that are obvious to clients, but with sensitivity and conscientiousness When you need to align your niche with your outside passions The possibility of triggering your clients and how to handle that When your outside activities positively impact your work The need to avoid over-identification when sharing hobbies or obsessions with your client Self-disclosure is for the benefit of the client Identifying what is yours and what is your client’s How deliberate practice informs this decision Grounding yourself before session, refocusing and making sure you stay present during session How these activities can make ideas and interventions more tangible The danger of advice giving when you are truly passionate about your activities Making sure to be intentional about your relationship and your treatment by reviewing treatment goals prior to each session Deliberate practice as a mechanism to make sure these obsessions don’t come into session in a negative way Shared interests leading to connection and then short-hand that helps to move the relationship forward Honesty and authenticity in the therapeutic relationship

What is Eco Anxiety? An Interview with Dr. Thomas Doherty Curt and Katie interview Dr. Thomas Doherty about Eco Anxiety. We look at the history of eco anxiety, what therapists should know about the environment, the concept of environmental identity, and how we can support clients with Eco Anxiety in therapy. We look at ways to bring these topics up with our clients as well as empower them to take action. An Interview with Dr. Thomas J. Doherty Thomas is a clinical and environmental psychologist based in Portland, Oregon, USA. His multiple publications on nature and mental health include the groundbreaking paper “The Psychological Impacts of Global Climate Change,” co-authored by Susan Clayton, cited over 700 times. Thomas is a fellow of the American Psychological Association (APA), Past President of the Society for Environmental, Population and Conservation Psychology, and Founding Editor of the academic journal Ecopsychology. Thomas was a member of the APA’s first Task Force on Global Climate Change and founded one of the first environmentally-focused certificate programs for mental health counselors in the US at Lewis & Clark Graduate School. Thomas is originally from Buffalo, New York. In this podcast episode we talk about what therapists should know about Eco Anxiety In preparation for Earth Day, we wanted to understand more about Eco Anxiety and what therapists can do to support our clients and the planet. What is Eco Anxiety? The history of Eco Anxiety, including worry about the use of chemicals, climate change The importance of words, personal experiences, how the client sees the world The diagnoses that align with this area, the types of impacts on clients What Should Therapists Know About the Environment? Resources related to climate change How to explore Environmental Identity Understand our own Environmental Identity The 3 basic psychological impacts from the environment (disaster, chronic, or ambient) The benefits of nature and how people in all environments can access them What is your Environmental Identity? Relationship to the natural world Significant experiences in the outdoors The nuance of bringing these ideas up in Urban areas What “nature” means to each of us How Can We Support Clients with Eco Anxiety in Therapy? Understanding the basics on the environment and climate change Building capacity to be with these issues Reeling in the anxiety, imagination Understanding the waves of emotions and completing the anxiety cycle Giving clients permission to talk about the environment and how to open up the conversations Coping strategies specific to Eco Anxiety Suggestions for activism and what clients can do to improve the environment Helping clients to identify if they are doing enough Where to find resources on environmental efforts How therapists can employ climate awareness in their practices Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Dr. Thomas Doherty's Practice Sustainable Self Climate Change and Happiness Podcast Dr. Thomas Doherty’s Consultation and Training Program on the Environment The Psychological Impacts of Global Climate Change by Thomas J. Doherty and Susan Clayton NY Times: Climate Change Enters the Therapy Room Climate Psychology Alliance Project Draw Down Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: What’s New in the DSM-5-TR with Dr. Michael B. First What You Should Know About Walk and Talk Therapy part 1 What You Should Know About Walk and Talk Therapy part 2 (Law and Ethics) Shared Traumatic Experiences

Want to Fix Mental Health Workforce Shortages? Speed up the Licensing Boards: An interview with Dr. Ben Caldwell Curt and Katie interview Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD, about licensing board inefficiencies leading to incredible delays in folks getting licensed. We talk about the impacts of paperwork processing delays as well the inadequate infrastructure of most licensing boards. We also explore policy and individual options to mitigate or address these problems. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about how the mental health workforce shortages are exacerbated by licensing boards Curt and Katie decided to invite Dr. Ben Caldwell back onto the podcast to talk about how licensing board inefficiencies are exacerbating mental health workforce shortages. Impacts of delays of paperwork processing on clients and clinicians ·   Delays of folks increasing income as a licensed clinician ·   Lack of mental health clinicians in the work force ·   Prospective clinicians dropping out of the process to become licensed due to the time and financial burden Licensing board infrastructure is often inadequate to get individuals licensed timely ·   Computer systems that licensing boards use are not typically modern ·   The contracts for streamlining processes are often restrictive to specific systems or to how quickly these improvements can move ·   There is little that is automated, but rather includes manual entry which is inefficient and introduces opportunities for error What are potential solutions for the pervasive inefficiency found in licensing boards? ·   Scanning and using optical recognition software for applications and counting hours ·   Contracting with private technology companies that are already gathering this data ·   Finding automated systems that are set up properly from the beginning to minimize training needs ·   Legislation to put pressure on state licensing boards to update computer systems ·   Hiring more people to take on these tasks ·   Using financial reserves to improve systems ·   Mitigating the effects of the delays on the workers (i.e., being able to take required exams for licensure while accruing your hours) ·   Simplifying processes wherever possible (i.e., less buckets of hours with minimum and maximum hours that need to be met) ·   Simplifying applications to make them more understandable for both applicants and reviewers ·   Policy analysis related to the rules – boards make the inaccurate assumption that if a rule exists it must be good ·   Using the legislative process to hold licensing boards accountable for not getting through applications timely and potentially even giving folks provisional licenses while waiting for the application to be reviewed What can individual therapists do to address the delays in processing licensing paperwork? ·   Be as clear as possible in applications and communication to the board to decrease confusion ·   Don’t apply for licensure early (i.e., before requirements are completed) ·   Show up to board meetings and let the licensing board know that delays are a huge problem ·   Advocate with your professional org and/or to your legislators Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Overcoming Your Poverty Mindset An interview with Tiffany McLain about how therapists deserve to make a good living and often do not. Curt and Katie interview Tiffany regarding her perspectives related to how sliding scale fees can perpetuate racist and classist systems, the problem with therapists sacrificing themselves and acting as saviors, and the impact you can make if you amass wealth and seek luxury.  It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Tiffany McLain, LMFT Tiffany McLain, LMFT is a therapist & consultant whose mantra is, “Full fees are the new black.” Via her program, The Lean In. MAKE BANK. Academy, she helps therapists ethically earn 30 to 50% more per month while seeing fewer clients by showing them how to think about and directly address fees in a clinically appropriate manner. In this episode we talk about: Tiffany’s Lean In Make Bank Academy How current events are impacting therapists making money The belief system that we are hurting clients by charging them Why therapists are so susceptible to these messages How women and minorities are external reinforced to sacrifice ourselves The stigma of building wealth, living life more fully, seeking luxury Grappling with raising fees, with people needing help The internal dialogue that comes in when trying to raise fees How luxury has been sustained on the backs of others The misguided attempt to fix the system through self-sacrifice What the cost is when you self-sacrificing The problem with Saviorism How a sliding scale can encourage racism and classism Negating self-efficacy and fostering dependency, through lowering our fees Sliding scale = subsidizing our client’s treatment Tiffany’s experience with a sliding scale therapist How gratitude for a therapist sliding their fee can lead to clients hiding themselves, not fully showing up or engaging in treatment effectively The value issue related to people asking for a sliding fee or balking at paying the full fee How these issues may come in at the beginning of a therapist’s career Talking about your fee as a clinical intervention Unconscious dynamics that keep us from acting on what we know re: setting fees and money Money is a representation of the therapist’s need and desire Processing emotional reactions to fee changes with clients. For example: “When I raise my fees, it hurts you” without collapsing, lowering the fee, or losing boundaries The challenge of looking at financial capacity for individuals The idea that we do not have to take care of individuals who cannot afford our fee in order to create access – and ideas of how we can increase impact once we’ve had the ability to create financial stability and wealth The benefit to society of women gaining wealth, with the ability to make a bigger impact The importance of setting your fee appropriately from the beginning

Shared Traumatic Experiences Curt and Katie chat about the potential that clients will take care of us because we’re all going through the global pandemic. We look at the humanization and boundary shifts that can happen. We also talk about how to handle the nuance of the changes in the therapeutic relationship to help sustain stronger clinical efficacy. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: How clients may become more aware of their therapist’s own challenges due to the pandemic Clients testing to see if we have capacity to manage what is happening AND their issues as well The reality of the additional disclosure that is happening with telehealth How we’re managing the conversations about the human experience, the unique situations we’re facing, and our clients’ concerns The disinhibition effect for both clients and therapists via telehealth Discussions about availability and flexibility with clients Research on Shared Traumatic Experiences Boundary shifts that need to be discussed How to handle the shifts in the relationship with nuance The need for therapists to take care of themselves – more deliberately and differently than we might have done prior to the pandemic The added stressors that are being put on therapists that our clients are likely aware of The importance of not pathologizing our clients wanting to take care of us during this time The positives for telehealth and some of the boundary shifts The importance of community for therapists right now Acknowledging that therapists who have stayed in the office require support as well Risk factors for therapists who wear different hats and have different projects Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below might be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Article by Lori Gottlieb in the Atlantic Article about the Disinhibition Effect Article: Therapeutic Intervention in a Continuous Shared Traumatic Reality: An Example from the Israeli–Palestinian Conflict Article: Negative consequences of helping and the length of work experience Article: Shared Traumatic Reality and Boundary Theory: How Mental Health Professionals Cope With the Home/Work Conflict During Continuous Security Threats     Therapy Reimagined 2020: Therapy Reimagined 2020 Conference: Speakers!! Therapy Reimagined 2020 Call for Sponsors   Relevant Episodes: The Brand Called You Recession-Proofing Your Practice Systems of Self-Care Impaired Therapists Trauma Informed Work Place The Mental Load of Therapists Vulnerability, the News, and You   Connect with us! Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapists Group Get Notified About Therapy Reimagined 2020 (and TR2019 Virtual Conference)   Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour  Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Biden and Trump on Mental Health Curt and Katie chat about policies, promises, and actions taken by President Donald Trump and Vice President Joe Biden related to mental health. We look at mental health parity, the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, prisons, funding priorities, as well as the importance of voting. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: The promises and the actions taken by President Trump and Vice President Biden on mental health Mental Health Parity and the Affordable Care Act Medicaid Funding and Social Services Prison and Jail Systems Mental Health workforce The difference between budget allotments and how much money actually gets to the programs The opioid epidemic Suicide prevention and veterans How the candidates talk about mental health and drug abuse Trumps attack on Hunter Biden and desire to reopen mental institutions Control and punishment versus prevention and support Biden normalizing mental health care The importance of voting

What Therapists Should Know about the Rollout of 988 Curt and Katie discuss the new suicide hotline, 988, that is set to roll out July 16, 2022. We talk about the legislation for 988 as well as what the primary concerns are for the launch. We explore the resources and infrastructure that is promised (but not ready) as well as ideas that might improve the success of this new initiative. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about what is already going wrong with the 988 roll out.  We have been paying attention to the 988 roll out and are concerned by the lack of preparation and funding for its implementation. We talk about why we’re freaked out about the upcoming roll out. What is 988? Legislation (from 2020) makes the national suicide hotline easier to access, using the phone number 988 – set to launch on July 16, 2022 Crisis, Suicide, or Lifeline phone number Replaces the previous numbers: 800-273-8255 (phone) or text to 741741 Connecting local resources to local callers An entry point into the local crisis response system Opportunities for call, text, or messaging support during times of crisis What are the primary concerns with the launch of 988? Lack of infrastructure (calls are being sent out of state or not being answered at all) Lack of local resources to handle crisis response Lack of funding to develop these resources (potentially NO funding for staff, text, chat) Huge gaps in the crisis response system that will be exposed by increased access to this system Challenges with training hotline workers, who are likely going to be volunteers Inadequate training for inclusive services and linguistically responsive services. Ideas to improve 988 and the United States Mental Healthcare program Funding streams through Medicaid, combining forces with 911 Using the implementation to identifying gaps RAND suggestions to coordinate with local organizations for strategic planning and identifying stable funding sources, needs assessments related to personnel Advocacy at the state level to make sure state legislatures are making this work Curt’s idea: have hotlines staffed with prelicensed or provisionally licensed folks (earning double hours toward licensure) Advocacy at the federal level to increase funding across the whole country Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! SAMHSA 988 webpage RAND Report: How to Transform the US Mental Health System RAND Working Paper – Preparedness for 988 Throughout the United States: The New Mental Health Emergency Hotline Find Your Legislators Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Fixing Mental Healthcare in America A Living Wage for Prelicensees Episodes on Suicide

Rage and Client Self-Harm An interview with Angela Caldwell, LMFT on cutting and non-suicidal self-injury. Curt and Katie talk with Angela about the causes of self-harm, the mistakes therapists make in addressing self-harm as well as how to identify reasons behind this harmful coping mechanism and how to identify when suicidality is a risk. We also look at how rage within nice families can lead to self-injury. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. Interview with Angela Caldwell, LMFT Angela Caldwell is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Family Coach. She is the Founder and Director of the Self-Injury Institute, where her practice focuses on the treatment of self-injury from a family systems perspective, as well as the Caldwell Family Institute, where she offers out-of-the-box coaching for families that are looking for something other than therapy to help them reach their growth potential. Angela is currently on the adjunct faculty for the MFT graduate program at California State University Northridge, where she teaches family systems theories and couples therapy. She has been teaching graduate students for over a decade at four different universities, and previously taught assessment for a large majority of her teaching career. She was selected by Antioch University to design a curriculum for a new Counselor Assessment class, and has offered consultation on assessments for the last eight years. Angela has served in MFT leadership for much of her career, including holding executive offices in CAMFT and AAMFT. She has worked side by side with Ben Caldwell and other leaders on various advocacy efforts in California, most notably on the passage of SB 1172, which banned reparative therapy for minors in 2012. In this episode we talk about: Angela’s perspective on family systems and champions of families and dinner tables The mistakes in treatment planning and way of being related to self-injury What not to do when clients disclose self-harm The intrusive nature of liability-focused treatment planning and interventions in the room The need to render cutting irrelevant The role of the family treatment for addressing self-injury Non-suicidal self-injury versus suicidal self-injury (the difference is intent) “It’s important for therapists to be able to talk about suicide – to use the word suicide with the same emphasis that we use the word hamburger.” Angela Caldwell, LMFT It’s important to be direct in asking about intent “I’m cautious to link self-injury with suicide in such a short, abrupt way.” Angela Caldwell, LMFT Rage in families who are too nice leading to self-injury The profiles in non-suicidal self-injury: peer-based and rage-based Social media self-injury and mental illness competitions How rage is often misunderstood – looking at how rage and anger are very different Rage is animalistic and limbic Self-injury is rage (when anger is not useful) when you do not want to be a burden Rage comes with tactile stimulus seeking, seeking destruction Discovery is mortifying The problem with group treatment for cutting The contagion factor – Barent Walsh Co-rumination – looking at adolescent female relationships Family Therapy as the most effective treatment for non- Rewrite the family constitution around anger and anger expression Family assertiveness training, teaching families how to disagree and hurt each other’s feelings Angela’s strategy to provoke fights within the families that she sees and conducts repair

Curt and Katie talk about the ups and downs of planning Therapy Reimagined 2018. We share tips and tricks for planning an event as well as things we’re going to do differently next year. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: Reflecting on Therapy Reimagined 2018 The importance of planning ahead Creating time and space to do something extra How to create buzz and excitement throughout a long event Messaging and marketing The importance of creating a cohesive marketing plan from the beginning The loss of creativity and perspective when you are super busy and overwhelmed Delegating when something grows bigger than you can manage on your own The danger of burnout when working TOO much, even when you are doing something you love Taking care of the details and creating templates for the next year Event planning and negotiating with the venue – knowing what you don’t know Planning ahead – not just creating stuff to use now, but actually making templates and structures that are repeatable Getting and supporting sponsors Creating relationships and leveraging them to grow the movement Being very clear with the information that sponsors, speakers, and exhibitors can and should share, and when. How important it is to be specific. Being directive, respectful, and specific on how people can help and participate Understanding that we packed WAY TOO MUCH into 2 days Thinking through your whole schedule from the participants’ perspective Making sure you put forward clear instructions for your participants The challenge we had with continuing education sign in and certificates (#fail) How to vet speakers, working with them earlier in the process, the details that are important Taking care of the technological aspects of presenting multiple speakers Looking at it as a production, versus an “educational event” Getting feedback from everyone who attended to improve (our deliberate practice) Announcing the tentative plans for Therapy Reimagined 2019 How to incorporate feedback and criticism into future decision-making, and how important it is to be responsive Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Katie Read Katie Write #therapymovement Our Facebook Group – The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Group   Relevant Previous Episodes: Own Your Awesome Business (with Kelly Higdon) The Burnout System Addressing The Burnout System   Our event this year: The Therapy Reimagined Conference in Los Angeles in October 2018!!   Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour  Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

On The Move: How Run Walk Talk Therapy Reshapes Mental Health An interview with Sepideh Saremi, LCSW Curt and Katie interview Sepideh Saremi, LCSW, on her therapy model, Run Walk Talk. We look at the practicalities and clinical benefit of including movement (specifically running and walking) in therapy. We talk about the principles of movement as method, movement as modulator, and movement as metaphor. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we explore running in a therapy session We invited Sepideh Saremi to talk about how she works as a therapist. She started running and walking with her clients in 2014 and is now teaching other therapists how to effectively bring these types of movement into therapy.  How does it work to add running or other forms of movement to therapy? ·      Movement as method (nuts and bolts, practicalities) ·      Movement as modulator (addressing the nervous system) ·      Movement as metaphor How can a therapist explain running or walk and talk therapy to a client? ·      The purpose of running or walking in therapy is not for the cardio benefits ·      Running and walking in therapy can help clients to connect to self and therapist ·      Run Walk Talk can also make therapy more accessible for some clients What are the practicalities and benefits of running in a psychotherapy session? ·      Running at a conversation pace ·      Paying attention to the physical interaction ·      Creating an embodied experience ·      Assessing pace and self-care ·      Mindfulness and awareness ·      How to address confidentiality ·      Using the environment clinically ·      The benefits of being outside ·      The relational elements are important in this type of therapy ·      Handling liability when working with clients outside and movement Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Episode 224: Are You Even Trauma-Informed? An interview with Laura Reagan, LCSW-C, on trauma-informed care, including what it looks like in practice. Curt and Katie talk with Laura about the barriers clients face when trying to find a good trauma therapist and how trauma therapists can advertise in a trauma-informed way. We also explore how COVID is impacting trauma treatment and tips for providing virtual trauma therapy. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age.   Interview with Laura Reagan LCSW-C, Laura Reagan, LCSW-C is an integrative trauma therapist, clinical supervisor, consultant and coach. Since 2015 she has hosted Therapy Chat Podcast, where she interviews therapists, authors, researchers and other experts about psychotherapy, trauma, attachment, creativity, mindfulness, relationships and self compassion. In 2021 she launched a new podcast entitled Trauma Chat for anyone who is curious about what trauma is, how it shows up in our lives and how to find the right kind of help for your specific experience. She is the founder of Trauma Therapist Network, a website providing information and resources on trauma and a membership community for therapists. Learn more at www.traumatherapistnetwork.com.  In this episode we talk about: Who Laura Reagan is and what she puts out in the world. What therapists get wrong with trauma-informed care in regard to advertising. How trauma therapists can be trauma-informed in their advertising. Factors that make it difficult for clients to find a good trauma therapist. What is trauma and what is trauma therapy? How COVID is playing a role in trauma treatment. Tips on how to provide effective virtual trauma therapy. What therapists can do to support clients that do not have an ideal virtual environment. If therapists should obtain more trauma training due to the impact of COVID. Considerations therapists can make when deciding to specialize in trauma.    

What Actually is Therapy? Curt and Katie chat about the confusing laws related to telehealth and other technologies that open up questions of how therapy is actually defined. We look at what is not therapy, what constitutes a therapy session, what differentiates therapy from coaching, and how therapists can navigate confusing laws related to texting, telehealth, and interstate communication with their clients.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about what therapy is and what it is not Curt identified some laws that don’t quite work because what is considered therapy is changing. What time does therapy happen if you are texting? Where is it located? And what actually is therapy and needs to be held under the laws of the profession AND the laws regulating telehealth and technology? Why does Curt want to fix the telehealth laws? Rules surrounding knowing where your client is and safety depend on therapy happening concurrently. New types of therapy (like texting and asynchronous messaging) don’t have the same parameters to be able to identify what is supposed to be documented in therapy sessions. What is therapy and what is not therapy? Therapy versus coaching Therapy versus coping skills training What is therapy versus what is therapeutic Does the presence of a therapist make something therapy? What about continuity of care or coping/coaching calls when someone is traveling? Things that are called therapy and are not: retail therapy, conversion therapy What is billable to insurance? How do we differentiate what we do from non-therapists? Deeper emotional work within psychological principles Legal responsibilities of confidentiality What is a therapy session? Therapy sessions versus coaching calls Therapists define what is a therapy session (according to CAMFT) We need to make sure that we clarify with clients what therapy is with each of us Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Article from Stephen P. Becker – Wilderness Therapy: Ethical Considerations for Mental Health Professionals Relevant Episodes of MTSG Podcast: Rage and Client Self-Harm: An interview with Angela Caldwell, LMFT It's the Lack of Thought That Counts: Ethical Decision-Making in Dual Relationships Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Is AI Really Ready for Therapists? An interview with Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey Curt and Katie interview Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey of QA Prep about her assessment of the AI tools available for therapists. We chat about the high expectations many clinicians have for note writing tools (and whether these expectations are really reasonable right now). We also look at what therapists are getting wrong when starting to use these tools, exploring some concerns related to HIPAA compliance and who is actually putting together these tech tools. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about the development of AI tools for therapists Curt and Katie asked Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey to come on and talk about what she thinks about AI for documentation. What are therapists getting wrong about AI? ·      Therapists believe that AI can do their notes, but it is often a lot of work and/or is an expensive application is required ·      There is a choice when using a free platform and/or an untrusted platform is that you are either writing an insufficient note or adding PHI, which causes you to break HIPAA ·      AI for notes takes a very long time due to how slowly they process the information as well as your need to review and edit each note ·       Some platforms are claiming to be HIPAA compliant and are not What are the different ways that AI works to provide documentation? ·      AI listens to the session and/or you upload the recording or a transcript ·      You enter the information on what happened in the session and AI writes the formal notes What do therapists need to know about an AI platform before using it? ·      Checking for actual HIPAA compliance versus a false statement about HIPAA compliance ·      Understand how it is telling you to use the software ·      Do they give you a BAA? ·      The pricing is relatively similar to an EHR - $10-$40 per month ·      This is not an electronic health record or practice management system ·      Some of the AI applications do not have access to the diagnosis, assessment, treatment plans, so you will have to insure that you prove medical necessity and demonstrate the clinical loop Are these AI platforms really ready for therapists? ·      The tech experts are taking care of data security ·      Many companies are still figuring these things out ·      All of the platforms Maelisa tested created fake elements of sessions (i.e., put things in the notes that did not happen) What else can therapists use AI for? ·      Creating templates for progress notes (i.e., not for a specific client, no PHI) ·      Creating resources for clients What do therapists need to do for their clients if they are using AI? ·      You must inform your client that you are using AI (informed consent) ·      AI is experimental, so it must be optional for your clients to opt in ·      You must insure that the platform is actually secure and HIPAA compliant ·      Ethics codes aren’t really saying anything, but some statements could be coming out soon on the ethics of how to use AI with or for clients What do therapists need to know about AI? ·      It is very new and changing constantly ·      This is going to happen, so we need to understand and participate in this transition ·      New resources will be created through AI Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

What is Our Fascination with Anything Vaguely Neuroscience? Curt and Katie chat about our profession’s fascination with neuroscience. We explore the myths about the brain, why therapists lean on neuroscience (even when they really shouldn’t), and how “neuro” is misused and can actually be harmful to our clients.    Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about neuroscience Curt has started to get frustrated with all of the ways that neuroscience is misused. Curt is frustrated with the ongoing use of “neuro” information that may be myth. What are the most common neuromyths? Humans only use 10% of our brains Left/Right Brain preference Learning style (i.e., auditory, visual, or kinetic learners) If you don’t drink enough water, your brain will shrink Why do therapists often privilege “neuroscience” over everything else? The fascination with brain scans The belief that explanations including neuroscience are more effective (even if they are not) Interest in data and the scientific explanations The Misuse of “Neuro” to increase the credibility of other concepts The “neuroscience” of the power of attraction Overusing neuroscience explanations for interventions that don’t help The potential for clients to feel incompetent due to trying to access parts of the brain versus understanding the interventions in a basic and complete manner Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance! Article: The Seductive Allure of Neuroscience Explanations by Deena Skolnick Weisberg, Frank C. Keil, Joshua Goodstein, Elizabeth Rawson, and Jeremy R. Gray Article: Dispelling the Myth: Training in Education or Neuroscience Decreases but Does Not Eliminate Beliefs in Neuromyths by Kelly Macdonald, Laura Germine, Alida Anderson, Joanna Christodoulou and Lauren M. McGrath Article: Brain Images Make Cognitive Research More Believable Article: Neuroscience and education: myths and messages Article: Brain images make the article seem more reliable The manifested article that has not been vetted for scientific accuracy, but I can’t believe I found it: The Neuroscience of The Secret Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Patreon Buy Me A Coffee Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Curt and Katie talk about termination of treatment, both when it is planned and when it is unplanned. We look at best practices, challenges, and how to handle it the best way you can. It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. To support you as a whole person and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age. In this episode we talk about: When to start talking about termination during treatment Setting expectations for the end of treatment How to address client’s instinct to “ghost” from treatment Normalizing the different paths to ending treatment Different reasons that you may not be able to complete treatment Planning ahead to diminish negative impacts of abrupt terminations that are out of your control Providing referrals, closure, and understanding that even that doesn’t always create positive outcomes The elements of a positive termination Managing expectations of what health and healing are and what would qualify someone to finish treatment Highlighting strengths and progress as well as on-going goals and challenges Acknowledging the relationship you’ve had with the client Processing your own response to the termination What to look at and learn when your client abruptly terminates Requesting termination sessions when someone decides to end suddenly – things to consider What to do when your client ghosts you Closing the client’s chart Resources mentioned: We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Therapy Reimagined 2019: Sign up here to get notified when the details are released. Our consultation services: The Fifty-Minute Hour  Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Dealing with “Therapy Doesn’t Work” Curt and Katie chat how to engage with people who doubt the efficacy of therapy. We look at how to address general skeptics, mandated clients, hesitant prospective clients, and uncertain longer-standing clients. Spoiler alert: validation, understanding, and coming back to the relationship go far. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we explore how to talk with folks who don’t believe in therapy In response to a Reddit thread asking how therapists can respond when someone says they don’t believe in therapy or that therapy doesn’t work. How can therapists respond when someone says, “therapy doesn’t work?” ·      Therapy is not for everyone ·      Validating concerns ·      Work to understand their previous experiences in therapy ·      Acknowledge problematic elements in therapy How do you approach clients who are mandated or forced into treatment? ·      Working with resistance ·      Going back to the relationship and shared goals ·      Meeting client where they are What can therapists do when parents don’t believe in therapy for their kid? ·      Understanding fear or concerns ·      Joining and building rapport ·      Exploring their goals for their child ·      Seeking engagement and involvement ·      Don’t throw evidence-base at them ·      Explaining how therapy works for kids ·      Avoiding defensiveness on the part of the therapist How can you explain therapy to a hesitant client considering therapy for the first time? ·      Validation of fears and concerns ·      Acknowledging challenges in coming into therapy ·      Identifying what would be most helpful to address in therapy ·      Trying to break through preconceived worries about it not working ·      Exploring how to find a good match ·      Describing what therapy can look like ·      Explain that therapy might not be the only answer (e.g., coaching, social work, meds, etc.) The importance of being able to describe what therapy is like with you ·      Curt’s suggestion of having a casual conversation with a colleague to describe what your therapy look like ·      Know how to describe your approach to people who don’t know what therapy is ·      Not every client is best for you ·      Focusing on the relationship you will provide to the client What are the options for talking with long term clients who are doubting therapy? ·      Use the concerns clinically ·      Validating concerns ·      Coming together related to expectations and goals ·      Acknowledging when therapy isn’t working ·      Reframing incremental progress ·      Therapists seeking consultation and supervision, so these conversations don’t feel painful Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/