My Therapist Is Out!

Open Space Therapy Collective
  • 4.9 (18)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to My Therapist is Out! An Open Space Therapy Collective Podcast. We are your hub for queer and trans mental healthcare. Each episode therapist and host Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them), will speak with one of our therapists or LGBTQ+ community member about mental health and building community. To book a free consult call with one of our therapists visit: openspacetherapycollective.com/book-appointment

  1. 4D AGO

    Part 1: Series End Q&A Identity Based Harm & LGBTQ+ Community Care

    In Part One of this listener Q&A, hosts and therapists Renae Johnson (they/them) and Kristen Crowe (they/them) respond to questions from the My Therapist Is Out! community about identity-based harm and what it actually feels like to live inside it. Together, they unpack why so many queer and marginalized folks feel chronically exhausted, disconnected, or unsure whether what they’re carrying “counts” as trauma. Renae and Kristen explore how identity-based harm shows up in the body, in relationships, and in community spaces — especially when those spaces don’t feel as safe or healing as we hoped. They talk about the tension between wanting connection and needing protection, how to support immigrant and targeted communities without centering ourselves, and what community care can look like when we’re already stretched thin. This episode offers validation, clarity, and permission to name what’s happening — without needing to have all the answers yet. Takeaways The conversation highlights the exhaustion felt by queer individuals in today's society. Understanding the difference between personal trauma and collective trauma is crucial. Community care plays a vital role in healing from identity-based harm. Emotional responses can be complex and intertwined with societal issues. It's important to recognize the impact of social media on our emotional well-being. Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Charlie Montiel He/They @charlieboytattoo Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Rae Hamilton-Vargo They/Them @rae_hv Host Bios:  Kristen Crowe LPCC, BC-DMT (they/them) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day. Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community.  In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.  As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Keywords: LGBTQ+ mental health podcast, identity-based harm, queer trauma and healing, community care in LGBTQ+ spaces, hate-based trauma recovery, radical healing for marginalized communities, queer therapists podcast, LGBTQ+ collective healing, trauma-informed community care, storytelling as healing in queer communities

    18 min

  2. FEB 5

    Generational Strength & LGBQ+ Community Healing

    In this episode of My Therapist Is Out!therapists Allison Smith (she/they) and Gio Nigro (they/them) dig into how identity-based harm—like microaggressions, cultural erasure, and systemic exclusion—shows up in LGBTQ+ lives and bodies. They explore why healing doesn’t happen in isolation, the role of therapy in reconnecting us to ourselves and each other, and how community care, mutual support, and shared vulnerability build real resilience. Through a lens that honors cultural heritage and generational strength, this conversation offers practical ways to move from disconnection toward belonging—without asking anyone to shrink, assimilate, or heal alone. Takeaways Identity-based harm encompasses violence, discrimination, and microaggressions. Microaggressions can have a compounding effect on individuals' mental health. Community support is crucial for healing from identity-based harm. Therapy can help clients navigate the challenges of identity-based harm. Building support systems is essential for mental well-being. Connection with others can mitigate feelings of isolation. Activism can foster a sense of community and belonging. Cultural heritage plays a vital role in individual identity and resilience. Vulnerability is necessary for building meaningful connections. Practical steps can help individuals engage with their communities. Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Clark He/Him @wondermountaincabin Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Fafa She/Her Host Bio:  Gio Nigro LCSW (they/them) is a Licensed Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Gio specializes in working with queer adults and older adults who struggle to understand their identity and behaviors and who desire to gain confidence and release shame from their past experiences. Allison Smith LCSW (she/they) is a Licensed Therapist at Open Space Therapy Collective. Allison specializes in  integrating trauma-informed, abolitionist frameworks to support clients in exploring identity, relationships, and cultural connections.  To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Keywords: identity-based harm, community care, microaggressions, lgbtq herapy, queer support systems, activism, cultural heritage, generational strength, connection, vulnerability

    47 min

  3. JAN 21

    Stories as Medicine: Identity-Based Harm and Healing through Storytelling with Jose Rosario

    Renae Johnson (they/them) sits down with Jose Rosario (he/him) of Phoenix Empowered for a powerful conversation about identity, storytelling, and mental health as pathways to collective healing. Jose shares his lived experience as a queer Latino man with a disability and how storytelling has become both a personal and political act—one that resists erasure, challenges identity-based harm, and creates space for radical healing. Together, they explore how hate-based trauma and systemic oppression show up in the body and mind, why representation in mental health is necessary but not enough, and how community care and cultural practices can foster real empowerment. This conversation names anxiety not as a personal flaw, but as a rational response to ongoing threats, and invites listeners to engage in community, storytelling, and advocacy as acts of resistance and care. Through the lens of Phoenix Empowered, Renae and Jose remind us that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens when we are seen, heard, and held in community. Takeaways Storytelling is a powerful tool for healing. Identity-based harm includes various forms of violence, not just physical. Representation in mental health is crucial but not sufficient. Community support is essential for healing and empowerment. Radical healing involves understanding systemic oppression. Cultural practices play a significant role in healing. Anxiety can be a response to systemic threats. Engagement in community can be a form of resistance. Phoenix Empowered aims to amplify marginalized voices.  Mentioned in this Episode: Jose’s Ted Talk Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Harley He/They @bb.musicstudio Guest 2: Shauna She/Her @palsbarla Guest Bio :  José Rosario is a mental health activist, researcher, and clinician and founder of The Phoenix Empowered, a nonprofit that helps organizations develop culturally-informed mental and social health protocols. José’s lived experience as a gay, Latino person who uses a wheelchair has informed both his clinical practice and his consulting work with organizations such as Home Depot, DoorDash, Shell and Johnson & Johnson.  José has spoken at TEDx, Washington State University, University of California Irvine, Arizona State University, ATOP MeaningfulWorld United Nations Affiliate Org, and the National Association of Councils for Developmental Disabilities, among many others.  He has served as an American Psychological Association (APA) Interdisciplinary Minority Fellow and is an active member of the APA’s Division of Trauma Psychology Policy and Anti-Oppression Committees. He also serves on the Community Advisory Board for the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office and the Congressional Advisory Board for former Congressman James Langevin. He has been honored with the Chris Martin Humanitarian Award and the Victoria Lederberg Award for Excellence in Psychology.  Host Bio:  Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion. Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.  As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

    46 min

  4. JAN 7

    Feeling Safe Again: Embodiment & Queer Community Care

    In this episode of My Therapist Is Out!, therapists Kristen Crowe (they/them) and Terra Friedman (she/her) unpack how identity-based harm disconnects us from our bodies—and from each other. Through somatic, relational, and systemic lenses, they explore why so many LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, neurodivergent, and immigrant folks feel “too much” in some spaces and “not enough” in others, and how disembodiment can become a survival strategy in unsafe systems. Grounded in real therapy room conversations and lived experience, this episode names the impact of racism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of marginalization—while offering compassionate, practical ways to reconnect with your body, access community care, and remember that you don’t have to be fully healed to take up space or belong. Takeaways Identity-based harm targets individuals based on their identity. Embodiment involves awareness of one's physical and emotional state. Community care is a collective responsibility for well-being. Disconnection from the body can lead to isolation. Healing often occurs within community settings. Societal norms can create barriers to connection. Finding the right community can be a gradual process. It's important to listen to your body's needs. You don't have to be fully healed to engage with others. Taking small steps can lead to greater community involvement. Keywordsidentity-based harm, community care, embodiment, mental health, LGBTQ+, therapy, self-discovery, healing, connection, support Mentioned in this Episode:  Instagram accounts: @beingqueerinla @silentbookclubla @beingqueerinla @sapphicla @everywhereisqueer @heyfam @queerasiansocialclub  Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Matthew Schmuck He/Him @matthewschmuck Guest 2: Katherine Kottaras She/They @katherinekotaras Kristen Crowe BC-DMT, LPCC, CST Bio :  Kristen (they/them) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, Sex Therapists and Clinical Director with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day. Terra Friedman AMFT Bio:  Terra (she/her) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Terra specializes in working with high achieving womxn who experience anxiety. Terra also works with couples and partners who are currently in or exploring non-monogamous relationships. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

    50 min

  5. 12/24/2025

    Allyship in Action: Supporting Immigrant Communities

    In this episode of My Therapist Is Out!, we’re joined by Veronica Velazquez (she/her) from LA Queer Coalition to talk about what real allyship looks like in action—especially as immigrant communities face increasing harm, surveillance, and ICE activity. Together, we explore how LGBTQ+ communities can show up in meaningful, practical ways that go beyond statements of support. This conversation breaks down how to respond to ICE raids, protect community safety, and participate in mutual aid without causing harm or burnout. Veronica shares grounded, accessible strategies for advocacy, organizing, and care—while naming the emotional toll these moments take on queer and immigrant communities alike. Whether you’re looking for concrete steps, clearer boundaries, or ways to stay engaged while protecting your mental health, this episode offers tools for showing up with intention, accountability, and solidarity. In this episode, we cover: What allyship looks like during ICE raids and increased surveillance How LGBTQ+ communities can support immigrant neighbors safely and effectively Mutual aid, community safety strategies, and local organizing efforts Navigating fear, anger, and burnout while staying engaged Why community care is essential when institutions fail This episode is a call to action—and a reminder that collective care and solidarity are powerful tools for survival and change. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to turn care into action. Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Devan Rose he/them @dvn_rse Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Michael Vandie he/him @minivandicamp Guest Bio :  Veronica Velazquez (she/her) is the founder of RadCraft Design, where she specializes in usability—making systems easier to navigate—and optimization—making them more effective and efficient.  Earlier this year, during the LA fires, Veronica recognized how her skill set could be applied beyond tech to support community care. Since then, she has used her expertise to help build effective mutual aid networks, create accessible information campaigns, and organize events that engage communities in environmental advocacy and collective support. As a Colombian-American, Veronica experiences firsthand the threats facing immigrant and communities of color. As a community organizer and activist, she understands the urgent need for allyship, training, and coordinated action to protect and support those most at risk—especially during times of heightened harm and systemic failure. https://www.icescream.org/ https://radcraftdesign.com/ @verosoraptor LA Queer Coalition Bio:  LA Queer Coalition (LAQC) is a grassroots collective of LGBTQ+ organizations, activists, and community members working to protect, uplift, and mobilize queer and trans communities across Los Angeles. Rooted in intersectionality and collective action, LAQC focuses on community safety, mutual aid, advocacy, and rapid response to systemic harm—particularly at the intersections of queerness, immigration, race, and economic justice. Through coalition-building and on-the-ground organizing, LAQC creates pathways for community care and resistance when institutions fail to protect our most vulnerable. https://www.laqueercoalition.org/ @laqueercoalition To find more from OSTC visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Keywords: #AllyshipInAction #QueerAndImmigrantSolidarity #CommunityCare #MutualAid #ICEAwareness #ProtectOurCommunities #LGBTQAdvocacy #ImmigrantJustice #CollectiveCare #GrassrootsOrganizing #CommunitySafety #QueerResistance #MentalHealthInActivism #SolidarityNotStatement #CareAsResistance

    33 min

  6. 12/10/2025

    Beyond the Wounds: Identity-Based Harm & Community Care

    In this first episode of our series, Ernesto Martinez introduces the concept of identity-based harm and the power of community care. Centered on LGBTQ+ experiences, Ernesto discusses the mental health impacts of discrimination, systemic violence, and ongoing political targeting, highlighting how anger can unite rather than isolate. The episode explores the historical roots of mutual aid within queer movements—from 1970s grassroots organizing to HIV/AIDS activism—and points to present-day actions shaping community wellness. Listeners are invited to reflect on their role in fostering collective care and imagine the blueprint for future LGBTQ+ mental health and support. Takeaways: Identity-based harm includes discrimination, stereotyping, verbal abuse, and systemic violations of rights. Community-based care encompasses mutual aid, protests, boycotts, harm reduction, and preventive responses. Historical LGBTQ+ movements, including activism during the AIDS epidemic, inform modern approaches to care. Mental health impacts of identity-based harm can manifest as hypervigilance, anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Anger can act as a unifying force when channeled toward collective action. Present-day community care continues to address gaps left by institutions failing under political pressures. Recognizing your role in community care is a step toward shaping inclusive, intersectional wellness practices. Mentioned in this Episode:  LA Queer Coalition Phoenix Empowered MTIO Episodes: “Can Rage Be Healthy?” with Debbie Whyte “Decolonize Your Health” with Lynsi Stevens (Crystal Case Apothecary) Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Julia she/they @juliamaeabrams Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Meredith she/her @pezmer Host Bio:  Ernesto Martinez APCC, AMFT (they/elle/he/el) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Ernesto specializes in working with Adults, Teens, & Parents of Gender Expansive Children, Adult Children of (im)Migrants to transform challenges into stepping stones towards self-compassion, fulfillment, and confidence.  To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Keywords: #LGBTQCommunity #QueerHealing #CommunityCare #IdentityBasedHarm #MutualAid #HarmReduction #QueerWellness #MentalHealthMatters #CollectiveCare #BIPOCMentalHealth #TransAdvocacy #QueerResistance #InclusiveCare #SocialJusticeWork #HealingInCommunity

    14 min

  7. 11/26/2025

    LGBTQ+ Neurodiversity Daily Life & Identity Q&A w/ Renae Johnson & Mikey Whited

    In Part Two of our LGBTQ+ Neurodiversity Q&A, host Renae Johnson (they/them) returns with Mikey Whited (they/them, Psych NP) to dive into the practical side of living as a neurodivergent queer adult. From managing executive dysfunction and workplace advocacy to creating sensory-friendly spaces at home, this episode is packed with strategies to help your neurodivergent brain thrive—not just survive. They also explore the deeper work of healing, identity, and self-acceptance: how to tell the difference between protective masking and harmful masking, ways to unlearn internalized ableism, and how to support yourself or loved ones in embracing neurodivergent identity. Together, Renae and Mikey remind us that thriving as a neurodivergent person means finding joy, connection, and authenticity in your daily life. Takeaways: Realistic strategies for managing executive dysfunction when even “basic tasks” feel impossible Advocating for yourself in school, work, or social spaces without fear of stigma Recognizing burnout and creating space to recover How to make your home environment sensory-friendly and supportive Distinguishing between masking for safety and masking that harms mental health Tools to unlearn internalized ableism and shame Supporting loved ones in understanding and accepting their neurodivergent identity What thriving looks like beyond coping: embracing strengths, joy, and authenticity Part Two closes out our practical and personal dive into LGBTQ+ neurodiversity, offering tools, insights, and encouragement to navigate daily life, relationships, and self-care with confidence and compassion. Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Cornelius He/Him @corneliusjonesjr Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Brough She/Her Guest Bio :  Mikey Whited RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (they/them) is a psychiatric nurse practitioner working in Los Angeles, California. Mikey specializes in queer and trans psychiatric medication and mental health care for adults and older teens. Mikey is passionate about changing the psychiatry paradigm and providing quality medication education and care for clients in a way that will ACTUALLY work to help clients achieve their lifestyle goals. Host Bio:  Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion. In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.  As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Keywords: #LGBTQCommunity #NeurodivergentLiving #QueerAndNeurodivergent #ExecutiveDysfunction #WorkplaceAdvocacy #SensoryFriendly #NeurodivergentJoy #AuthenticLiving #MaskingAndUnmasking #InternalizedAbleism #SelfAcceptance #NeurodivergentPride #CommunitySupport #HealingAndGrowth #ThrivingNotSurviving #MentalHealthMatters #InclusiveSpaces #QueerHealing #NeurodivergentStrengths

    36 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    LGBTQ+ Neurodiversity Relationships & Communication Q&A w/ Renae Johnson & Mikey Whited

    LGBTQ+ Neurodiversity Q&A (Part One) — Closing Reflections on the Series with Renae Johnson (they/them) & Mikey Whited, Psych NP (they/them) As we wrap up our Neurodiversity Series, host Renae Johnson and returning guest Mikey Whited sit down to answer your biggest questions about neurodivergence through a queer mental health lens. From how to know if you’re neurodivergent, to navigating communication and emotional regulation in relationships, this episode brings together the key themes from across the series—self-understanding, acceptance, and the radical power of community care. Together, they unpack what it actually looks like to live as a neurodivergent queer adult, the nuances of ADHD and autism, and why trauma and chronic stress can sometimes blur those lines. This isn’t just a Q&A—it’s a grounding conversation about belonging, validation, and learning to work with your brain, not against it. Series Takeaways: Understanding how ADHD, autism, and sensory differences overlap and diverge Why so many LGBTQ+ folks are late-diagnosed and how systemic bias plays a role The difference between trauma responses and neurodivergent traits Building communication that centers curiosity over correction Why emotional regulation is a practice, not a performance The role of community in unmasking, healing, and finding joy This episode closes out our six-part journey into LGBTQ+ neurodiversity—but the conversation doesn’t end here. Keep revisiting these stories, share them with your people, and remember: your brain is not broken. It’s beautifully, uniquely yours. Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Chi, She, @bigchii888 Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Paige, She/Her, @paigeraycreative Guest Bio :  Mikey Whited RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (they/them) is a psychiatric nurse practitioner working in Los Angeles, California. Mikey specializes in queer and trans psychiatric medication and mental health care for adults and older teens. Mikey is passionate about changing the psychiatry paradigm and providing quality medication education and care for clients in a way that will ACTUALLY work to help clients achieve their lifestyle goals. Host Bio:  Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion. In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.  As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective  TikTok: @openspacetherapy  Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut  Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Keywords:  #Neurodiversity #ADHD #AutismAcceptance #QueerMentalHealth #NeurodivergentVoices #CommunityCare #SelfUnderstanding #EmotionalRegulation #TraumaHealing #Unmasking #Acceptance #SensoryDifferences #LateDiagnosis #Neuroqueer #RadicalSelfAcceptance #HealingJourney #NeurodivergentCommunity #MentalHealthAwareness #YourBrainIsBeautiful

    37 min
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4.9
out of 5
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About

Welcome to My Therapist is Out! An Open Space Therapy Collective Podcast. We are your hub for queer and trans mental healthcare. Each episode therapist and host Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them), will speak with one of our therapists or LGBTQ+ community member about mental health and building community. To book a free consult call with one of our therapists visit: openspacetherapycollective.com/book-appointment

Information

  • Creator
    Open Space Therapy Collective
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    102
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Open Space Therapy Collective
  • Show Website
    My Therapist Is Out!