The Intentional Clinician: Psychology, Philosophy, Therapy, & Change

Paul Krauss MA LPC
  • 4.9 (19)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Bold Unedited Discussions on Psychology, Philosophy, Therapy, and Change. Entertaining and informative talks explore psychology and philosophy with a variety of guests including authors, doctors, healers, professors, therapists, scientists and more. We delve into everything from modern therapeutic techniques to ancient wisdom practices, offering practical and unique approaches to living a vibrant life. Host Paul Krauss, MA LPC, draws on his unique background – from a rural motel childhood to big-city experiences, and working with diverse populations. This trauma-informed therapist combines science with a touch of mysticism, for truly thought-provoking episodes. Opposing ideas unite – delve deeper and explore new ways of thinking! Forget the status quo, this podcast embraces deconstruction and variety.

  1. FEB 3

    A New and Proven Approach to ME/CFS, Long Covid, Fibromyalgia, Mold, Lyme, and inflammation with Ashok Gupta [Episode 161]

    Paul Krauss MA LPC had the honor of speaking with Ashok Gupta who is offering cost-effective and accessible options for those suffering from chronic conditions as well as those who want to feel more vibrant and reduce symptoms of fatigue and inflammation. Ashok has put years of creativity into the program he offers people around the world and it really is incredible how such a holistic program can have such stunning scientific outcomes. If you are interested, check out this episode.  Ashok Gupta, MA(Cantab), MSc who is an internationally renowned speaker, filmmaker and chronic illness and neuroplasticity expert. Ashok is the director of the Gupta Program, the original neuroplasticity and holistic health program for chronic conditions such as ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, Post-Covid Syndrome, and associated conditions. The Program has helped thousands of people regain their lives.  www.guptaprogram.com The program is backed by solid science, including peer-reviewed studies, and it’s gotten the thumbs up from leading health professionals. A recently April 2025 randomized controlled study demonstrates that the Gupta Program is significantly more effective than standard medication in improving symptoms of fibromyalgia. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is a Cofounder of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) "This Spring" (feat. Veda Hille) from the album This Spring: Songs by Veda Hille by Nicholas Krgovich (Spotify) "Burst/Neighborhood Song" from the album This Spring: Songs by Veda Hille by Nicholas Krgovich (Spotify)

    1h 20m

  2. JAN 20

    The Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Writing with Nick Kondyles, LLPC [Episode 160]

    If you are interested in how writing creatively and reading books may be therapeutic, this is the episode for you. Paul Krauss MA LPC and Nick Kondyles LLPC discuss creative writing and how to integrate the act both into psychotherapy and your personal life. Nick takes a practical approach by emphasizing many different types of learning to write and express one's experience. Many tools for writing as well as books and magazines are mentioned. Some of the Creative Writing Resources Mentioned: https://authorspublish.com/17-approachable-literary-journals/https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/therapeutic-journaling.asp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neuroscience-proven-expressive-writing-protocol-with/id1146941306?i=1000645136217 A Neuroscience-Proven Expressive Writing Protocol with Dr. James Pennebaker  The Believer Magazine Nick Kondyles, LLPC MA is a therapist serving the Grand Rapids, MI area in person as well as the entire State of Michigan via teletherapy. Nick accepts most health insurance plans. Nick’s specialties are in anxiety, depression, relational issues and identity exploration. He enjoys working with adolescents, adults, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community. He is also interested in serving those experiencing grief and loss, substance use and career development employing interventions such as legacy life review and visiting issues like work/life balance. Nick endeavors to serve those parenting or dealing with relationship struggles, providing supportive services such as learning different communication skills and others in the interpersonal domain.  Nick is a proud cat dad to a tuxedoed feline named Obi and loves to read books of any kind. When not in the therapy room, you can find Nick playing the occasional video game, biking or hanging out with friends. Nick hopes to work with you to find meaning in a healing process individualized to you and your needs while honoring your life story in a safe and warm environment. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is a Cofounder of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) ”Pink Tiger” from the album Pink Tiger by Apollo Ghosts (Spotify) ”But I'll Be Around (Electric Version) ” from the album Pink Tiger by Apollo Ghosts (Spotify)

    52 min

  3. 12/08/2025

    Why are Humans seemingly both incredibly Smart and completely Stupid? with Cezary Pietrasik [Episode 159]

    In episode 159 of The Intentional Clinician Podcast, Paul Krauss, MA LPC, interviews Cezary Pietrasik, author of Homo Idioticus: Why We Are Stupid and What to Do About It to unravel the paradox of human intelligence and folly. Through engaging dialogue, they explore why, despite our vast cognitive abilities, humans repeatedly make irrational and self-sabotaging decisions. Pietrasik discusses psychological, evolutionary, and cultural factors that explain recurring lapses in judgment, and offers practical frameworks for recognizing and overcoming our mental blind spots. Listeners are challenged to reflect on their own thinking patterns and are encouraged to adopt new strategies for greater self-awareness and wiser decision-making. Cezary Pietrasik is an economist, entrepreneur, and investor with a diverse background spanning investment banking, private equity, digital health, and behavioral AI. He is the president and co-owner of Synerise, a leading behavioral AI company, and the founder of The Butterfly Effect Foundation, which supports education for underprivileged children. Pietrasik is also the author of several books, including Homo idioticus, and is committed to making a positive difference through both business innovation and charitable work. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) “Sandy Legs” from Sandy Legs by Kolumbo (Spotify)

    1h 21m

  4. 11/09/2025

    What We Don’t Do: The Power of Inaction, Ethics, and Change with Nick Cooney [Episode 158]

    In this episode, Paul Krauss, MA LPC, interviews author and philanthropist Nick Cooney about his new book, "What We Don't Do: Inaction in the Face of Suffering and the Drive to Do More." Together, they examine how Cooney challenges listeners to confront the hidden consequences of their inaction, arguing that today, failing to act in the face of suffering can have even greater repercussions than direct harm. The conversation delves into psychological barriers that keep people from responding to global and local crises, while highlighting practical, empowering steps to transform awareness into meaningful intervention. Through accessible dialogue and Cooney's research-driven insights, Krauss guides listeners to reflect on how cultivating an attitude toward considering what they don't do and what they do-- can translate everyday choices into powerful, positive change. Nick Cooney is the founder and Managing Partner of Lever VC, a venture capital fund focused on alternative protein startups with a global investment reach. He has spent nearly two decades advancing the alternative protein sector, including founding the Lever Foundation and Good Food Institute, and has written extensively on food innovation and philanthropy. Cooney is an influential industry leader, recognized for his investments, writings, and global speaking engagements on plant-based and clean meat industries. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) “Easy Rider” from You Become the Mountain by Jeffrey Silverstein (Spotify)

    1h 6m

  5. 10/13/2025

    Finding Joy in the Darkness with MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD [Episode 157]

    In this episode, MaryCatherine McDonald PhD and Paul Krauss MA LPC discuss the concept and emotion of Joy. During dark times, it is difficult for most to "think of joy," however, Dr. McDonald has completed some compelling research and investigation into the benefits of "exercising Joy" along with expressing the troubles in our lives. MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD has authored a book entitled "The Joy Reset" --which helps readers identify barriers that prevent them from accessing joy—hypervigilance, emotional numbing, fear of loss, conditioning, guilt, and shame—and then redefines positive emotions as those tenacious, gritty, often tiny experiences that appear within the darkest moments and form the very foundation of psychological resilience. MaryCatherine McDonald is a research professor and life coach who specializes in the psychology and philosophy of trauma. Her work focuses on thinking critically about how we understand, define, and heal from traumatic experiences. She has published several research articles and book chapters, as well as three books on trauma. In addition to her academic work, Dr. McDonald coaches individuals and corporations and creates trauma-based curriculum for non-profit organizations and schools. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) “Minute Papilion” from Open Source by World Brain (Spotify) “hEARTSPACE” from Open Source by World Brain (Spotify) "Joy does not exist only in the moments that are free of pain. In fact, the brightest, tiniest, most important pieces can only be found in the dark. I want to teach you how to harness and amplify the power of that glinting magic–because this sustainable, endless light source will do more than help you get through your darkest, scariest, loneliest times."- Dr. Mary McDonald

    1h 6m

  6. 09/12/2025

    Uncovering Subversive Child Abuse found in Muchausen by Proxy with Detective Mike Weber [Episode 156]

    Detective Mike Weber is interviewed on the Intentional Clinician podcast with Paul Krauss MA LPC. Mike draws on his deep experience investigating Munchausen by Proxy(MBP)—a rare but harrowing form of child abuse where caregivers fabricate or induce illness in children for attention or other psychological gain. Weber has investigated more cases of medical child abuse than almost any other detective in the U.S., with over a dozen arrests and several convictions to his name. His work, often in partnership with medical experts, highlights the severe systemic challenges faced in prosecuting MBP crimes: cases are difficult to prove, victims are vulnerable, and the legal system is often hesitant to accept the reality that a mother could deliberately harm her child. Weber recounts intensely complex casework involving detailed deception, manipulation of medical professionals, and lasting trauma for victims. He describes cases where mothers made up or caused symptoms—one involving hundreds of falsified doctor visits over years, which ultimately was dismissed before reaching trial due to prosecutorial reluctance. Weber is outspoken about systemic shortcomings, emphasizing that many cases never see a courtroom and that awareness, better training, and stronger advocacy are urgently needed. Weber’s book, The Mother Next Door, co-authored with Andrea Dunlop, combines true crime storytelling and psychological analysis to explore MBP through the lens of three chilling real cases: Hope Ybarra, Brittany Phillips, and Mary Welch. The book not only exposes the devastation of MBP but also examines the emotional consequences for families and the formidable difficulties in holding perpetrators accountable. Weber and Dunlop offer both expert insights and personal perspectives to illuminate the hidden epidemic of medical child abuse and the often-overlooked complexity of prosecuting MBP cases.   Through his interviews, book, and advocacy, Detective Mike Weber is helping reshape public understanding and institutional response to subversive child abuse in the form of Munchausen by Proxy, pushing for a future where these children are better protected and perpetrators are held truly accountable.   Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) “Who Removed the Cellar Door?” from Interior Live Oak by Cass McCombs (Spotify)

    1h 5m

  7. 08/20/2025

    The Most Entertaining Science Book about the Brain? And will AI take your job? with Dr. Jorge Cham & Dr. Dwayne Godwin [Episode 155]

    Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews the authors of Out of Your Mind: The Biggest Mysteries of the Human Brain ---  Dr. Dwayne Godwin  and Dr. Jorge Cham. The interview dives into why the human brain remains one of science’s greatest puzzles, exploring themes such as consciousness, memory, free will, and what truly makes us human. Cham and Godwin discuss how their book stands out as one of the most entertaining and accessible science books about the brain, blending humor, cartoons, and cutting-edge neuroscience to engage readers of all backgrounds. In addition to these topics, Paul Krauss MA LPC and the authors also explore the fascinating question of what makes humans happy, discussing the neuroscience behind happiness and the age-old debate about whether money can actually buy it. The conversation ventures further into timely questions about technology, including an insightful discussion on whether artificial intelligence will take over human jobs, with both authors providing perspective on the implications and myths surrounding AI and employment. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) “Lie in the Gutter” from Rose Main Reading Room by Peel Dream Magazine (Spotify) “Oblast” from Rose Main Reading Room by Peel Dream Magazine (Spotify)

    1h 10m

  8. 08/06/2025

    Learning to Focus on Our Identity and Purpose and not just Your Current Role w. Dr. Haley Perlus [Episode 154]

    Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews Dr. Haley Perlus about her life and careers--as they discuss how Dr. Haley approaches helping people. Dr. Haley Perlus is an accomplished sport and performance psychologist, keynote speaker, author, and consultant who specializes in optimizing mental performance for athletes, business leaders, and high achievers. Her expertise draws from both her decorated athletic background and advanced academic training—she holds a Ph.D. in Sport Psychology, a Master’s degree in Coaching Behavior, and is certified in both fitness and nutrition. Dr. Haley Perlus's website. Get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline: 501(c)(3) Donate Share with your network Write your congressperson Sign our Petition Preview an Online Video Course for the Parents of Young Adults (Parenting Issues) Unique and low cost learning opportunities through Shion Consulting Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Counseling Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, an Approved EMDRIA Consultant , host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, Counseling Supervisor, and Meditation Teacher. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Paul has been quoted in the Washington Post, NBC News, Wired Magazine, and Counseling Today. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433.  If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting a weekly online group.  For details, click here. For general behavioral and mental health consulting for you or your organization. Follow Health for Life Counseling- Grand Rapids: Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube Original Music: ”Alright” from the album Mystic by PAWL (Spotify) “Ferndell Shade” from A Host For All Kinds Of Life by Green-House (Spotify) “Desire Path” from A Host For All Kinds Of Life by Green-House (Spotify)

    57 min
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4.9
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Bold Unedited Discussions on Psychology, Philosophy, Therapy, and Change. Entertaining and informative talks explore psychology and philosophy with a variety of guests including authors, doctors, healers, professors, therapists, scientists and more. We delve into everything from modern therapeutic techniques to ancient wisdom practices, offering practical and unique approaches to living a vibrant life. Host Paul Krauss, MA LPC, draws on his unique background – from a rural motel childhood to big-city experiences, and working with diverse populations. This trauma-informed therapist combines science with a touch of mysticism, for truly thought-provoking episodes. Opposing ideas unite – delve deeper and explore new ways of thinking! Forget the status quo, this podcast embraces deconstruction and variety.

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