New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network Podcast

Kelli-Ann Henry, LMFT
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

The NYMFTN Podcast is a welcoming space for all MFT professionals, including students, emerging therapists, and seasoned experts! Hosted by Kelli-Ann Henry, LMFT, this podcast features insightful interviews, discussions on the latest local and national issues, and a deep dive into the unique experiences of marriage and family therapy professionals. Our mission is to uplift the voices of MFTs at every stage of their career, fostering community and promoting shared professional interests across New York State. We invite you to listen, learn, and connect with us!

Episodes

  1. JAN 29

    Season 3 Episode 1: New York MFT Network 2026: Reflection, Vision & Leadership (Ina Qema, MFT LP & Dina Johnson, MS MFT-LP)

    Plans for 2026 include more virtual workshops and student leadership involvement. Guests Ina Qema, MFT, LP is the Chair of the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network and a Marriage and Family Therapist practicing with a focus on relational systems, community engagement, and professional leadership. Her work centers on strengthening connections across the MFT community, advocating for the profession, and fostering spaces where clinicians can grow, lead, and collaborate. Ina’s leadership is grounded in building community, elevating student voices, and creating opportunities for relational and professional development. Dina Johnson, MS, MFT-LP is the Co-Chair of the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network and a Marriage and Family Therapist with experience in clinical practice, mentorship, and organizational engagement. Dina champions collaborative leadership, workforce development, and inclusive community building. Her dedication to advancing the MFT profession in New York is reflected in her commitment to advocacy, professional networking, and supporting clinicians at every stage of their career. Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry, along with chair Ina Qema and co-chair Dina Johnson, reflect on the achievements and growth of the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network in 2025. They discuss the importance of community, networking, and the fight for diagnostic privilege. Looking ahead to 2026, they share plans for more virtual workshops, student leadership involvement, and opportunities for engagement within the network. The conversation emphasizes the need for in-person connections, the value of collective leadership, and the importance of maintaining a positive perspective as they move forward together. Follow us on social media for updates and events @nymftnetwork Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    26 min

  2. 12/10/2025

    Season 2 Episode 7: Advocacy & Safety for the Older Adult Population (Jennifer Nunez, LMFT)

    Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry speaks with Jennifer Nunez about her work in advocacy for the older adult population and the challenges faced by concerned persons seeking support. They discuss Jennifer's role as a bilingual Elder Abuse Helpline clinician at Weill Cornell Medicine, the importance of collaboration across disciplines, and the dynamics of family caregiving. Jennifer shares insights from her experiences, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in this field. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring therapists and a hopeful outlook on the future of care for older adults. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Advocacy for Older Adults 03:40 Understanding the Center for Elder Abuse Solutions 05:42 Role of MFT with Older Adults 07:54 Challenges Faced by Older Adults 09:07 Collaboration Across Disciplines 11:01 Family Dynamics and Care for Older Adults 13:25 Learning from Calls: Caregiving Insights 15:51 Advice for Emerging Therapists 17:36 Hope in Older Adult Advocacy 19:06 Resources and Contact Information 21:56 Outro Guest: Jennifer Nunez, LMFT Jennifer Nunez, LMFT is the Clinician for the Elder Abuse Helpline at the Center for Elder Abuse Solutions (CEASe) at Weill Cornell Medicine, where she supports the older adult population and their families through safety concerns, relational conflict, and systemic navigation. Featured Resource: The Center for Elder Abuse Solutions at Weill Cornell Medicine https://elderabuse.weill.cornell.edu/ For Concerned Persons: Call the New York State Elder Abuse Helpline for Concerned Persons: 844-746-6905  For Professionals: Connect with the Weill Cornell Medicine/CEASe team at cease_caseconsultation@med.cornell.edu Click below to join the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network today! https://www.nymftherapistnetwork.com/ Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    22 min
  3. Season 2 Episode 6: Navigating Advocacy for MFTs in New York (Carol Podgorski, PhD, MPH, LMFT and Denise Murphy McGraw, CAE)

    11/25/2025

    Season 2 Episode 6: Navigating Advocacy for MFTs in New York (Carol Podgorski, PhD, MPH, LMFT and Denise Murphy McGraw, CAE)

    Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry hosts Dr. Carol Podgorski and Denise Murphy McGraw to discuss the current advocacy efforts for Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) in New York State. They explore the challenges posed by the diagnostic privilege law, the impact of legislation on MFTs' ability to serve clients, and the ongoing mental health crisis in the state. The conversation emphasizes the importance of advocacy, awareness, and collaboration with legislators to improve access to care and support the MFT profession. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Advocacy Updates 03:49 Legislative Impact on MFTs 09:15 Challenges of Diagnostic Privilege 19:12 The Mental Health Crisis and Access to Care 24:19 Advocacy and Awareness for MFTs 29:13 Next Steps in Advocacy 35:49 Closing Guests: Carol Podgorski, PhD, MPH, LMFT Dr. Carol Podgorski is a medical family therapist and serves as a Professor and Associate Chair of Faculty Affairs in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Rochester. She is also the Director of the Finger Lakes Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease. Her academic interests focus on family therapy in dementia, medical family therapy approaches to caregiving, and the development of family systems and relationally oriented models of dementia care. Dr. Podgorski completed her doctoral degree in sociology and holds master’s degrees in Public Health and Marriage and Family Therapy.  Denise Murphy McGraw, CAE Denise Murphy McGraw is a partner at Hill, Gosdeck, McGraw & Nemeth (HGMN), where she specializes in advocating for professional attention to legislative and regulatory matters. She previously served as the legislative director for a majority member of the New York State Assembly and as the executive director of the Chamber of Commerce Alliance of New York State. Denise manages a diverse client portfolio and is actively involved in various local, state, and national not-for-profit organizations. Her areas of expertise include higher education, healthcare, and policy governance. Click below to join the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network today! https://www.nymftherapistnetwork.com/ Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    36 min

  4. 10/01/2025

    Season 2 Episode 5: Healing Interactions (Jennifer Uhrlass, LMFT)

    Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry, LMFT and Jennifer Uhrlass, LMFT discuss the significance of healing interactions within family dynamics. They explore the impact of stress on relationships, the importance of self-care, and the role of effective communication in fostering supportive environments. The conversation emphasizes recognizing warning signs of unmanaged stress, creating routines for healing conversations, and the necessity of self-compassion in personal development. Through practical advice and insights, the episode aims to equip listeners with tools to enhance their relational experiences at home. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healing Interactions 03:19 Understanding Stress in Family Dynamics 07:08 The Impact of Unmanaged Stress 10:55 Cultural and Financial Pressures on Family Stress 11:56 Navigating Boundaries and Self-Care 15:40 Creating Healing Conversations 18:22 Establishing Routines for Healing Interactions 21:10 Micro Habits for Well-Being 24:57 The Role of Tone and Body Language 28:32 Key Takeaways for Healing Interactions 30:56 Closing About Jennifer Uhrlass, LMFT Jennifer Uhrlass is a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Modern Marriage & Family Therapy, PLLC, a NYC-based private practice with a focus on relationship health & emotional well-being. She specializes in helping individuals and couples to recover from family of origin wounds and cultivate more caring, responsive, and mutually fulfilling relationships in their adult lives. Jennifer holds a Master’s degree from Syracuse University. She completed advanced clinical training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, and postgraduate education at the Ackerman Institute for the Family in NewYork City. Jennifer has practiced in NYC since 2014 and is licensed in NY, NJ, CT, and FL.  Contact our Guest: Jennifer Uhrlass, LMFT Website: https://www.modernmft.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernmft/ Featured Blog: Healing Interactions in Relationships: How to Repair and Strengthen Your Closest Connections Click⁠ here ⁠to connect with the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network today! Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    31 min

  5. 06/30/2025

    Season 2 Episode 4: Empire State of MFT: Inside Iona University’s #1 Program (Dr. Christiana Awosan, PhD., LMFT, Marc Fernandez, LMFT, Ina Qema LAMFT)

    Summary In this episode of the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network podcast, host Kelli-Ann Henry, LMFT and guest co-host Ina Qema LAMFT, NYMFTN Chair sit down with the Program Director, Dr. Christiana Awosan, PhD., LMFT, and Clinical Director, Marc Fernandez, LMFT from Iona University's Marriage and Family Therapy program. They discuss the program's recent ranking as the top MFT program in New York, the importance of diversity and representation in training, and the curriculum redesign aimed at enhancing student learning and meeting accreditation standards. The conversation also explores the integration of AI in therapy training, the new Bronxville campus, and the essential skills and ethical considerations for emerging therapists. The panelists share proud moments and the supportive community that defines the Iona MFT experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Leaders in MFT 02:13 Iona's Top Ranking in MFT Education 10:17 Curriculum Redesign and Its Impact 18:45 The New Campus and Clinical Experience 22:37 Preparing for Diagnostic Privilege 26:12 Essential Skills for Modern Therapists 27:49 The Impact of AI on Progress Notes 30:03 Ethical Training for Mental Health Professionals 32:39 Navigating AI in Education 35:44 AI's Role in Mental Health Therapy 38:55 Integrating AI into Family Therapy 41:45 Proud Moments in Training Future Clinicians 51:47 Outro Iona University MFT Program Spotlight Iona University Marriage and Family Therapy Program Ranked #1 in New York for 2025Iona University MFT Program Details Click here to connect with the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network today! Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    52 min

  6. 06/01/2025

    Season 2 Episode 3: Betrayal Trauma Therapy and Trust Restoration (Cheryl Donald, MA, MBA, LMFT)

    Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry, LMFT interviews Cheryl Donald, LMFT about betrayal trauma and its impact on relationships. They discuss the nuances of trust restoration, the signs and symptoms of betrayal trauma, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in therapy. Cheryl shares insights on the unique journeys of clients dealing with betrayal, the significance of the stages of grief in the healing process, and offers guidance for emerging therapists. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility and understanding in therapeutic relationships, as well as the importance of defining success on an individual basis. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Betrayal Trauma 03:57 Defining Betrayal Trauma 05:32 Impact of COVID-19 on Relationships 07:59 Signs and Emotional Responses to Betrayal Trauma 10:49 Identifying Betrayal Trauma in Clients 12:45 Common Issues in Intimate Relationships 15:08 Understanding Betrayal in Intimate Relationships 19:39 The Process of Trust Restoration 24:29 Cultural Sensitivity in Therapy 28:38 Success Stories in Healing 32:24 Navigating Grief and Loss of Trust 34:09 Guidance for Emerging Therapists 37:19 The Evolution of Marriage and Family Therapy 45:24 Closure Summary Contact our Guest: Cheryl Donald, LMFT Website: https://www.brooklynmft.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brooklynmft/ Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    46 min

  7. 04/30/2025

    Season 2 Episode 2: 3 Keys to Passing the National MFT Exam (Dr. Diane Gehart, PhD, LMFT)

    Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry and Dr. Diane Gehart discuss essential strategies for passing the national exam for marriage and family therapy licensure. They explore three key areas: mastering content knowledge, developing effective exam strategies, and managing test anxiety. Dr. Gehart emphasizes the importance of viewing the exam as a joyful rite of passage and shares insights from her course, 'Laugh Your Way to Licensure,' which aims to make the exam preparation process supportive and uplifting. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Exam Discussion 01:18 Navigating the National Exam Landscape 01:22 Keys to Exam Success: Content Mastery 08:22 Exam Strategies: Decoding Questions 12:09 Managing Test Anxiety 21:28 Laugh Your Way to Licensure: A Supportive Approach 26:54 Closure Summary Featured Test Prep Course: Laugh Your Way to Licensure https://www.therapythatworksinstitute.com/laugh-to-licensure-mft Music by AudioCoffee: ⁠https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    27 min

  8. 03/31/2025

    Season 2 Episode 1: MFT License Exam Pass Rate Disparities (Dr. Diane Gehart, PhD, LMFT)

    Summary In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry and Dr. Diane Gehart PhD, LMFT discuss the findings of a recent study on the Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) exam, exploring the factors that influence passing rates. They delve into demographics, educational backgrounds, and the impact of online programs on exam success. The conversation highlights significant disparities related to age and race, as well as the challenges posed by the exam's structure and content. Dr. Gehart offers recommendations for improving the exam process to better support candidates. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Exam Discussion 02:23 Research Study Insights on Exam Passing Rates 06:13 Key Factors Influencing Exam Success 11:10 Correlations and Non-Correlations in Exam Passing 17:07 The Impact of Age and Race on Exam Outcomes 24:24 Language and Class Variables in Exam Performance 26:34 Recommendations for Exam Improvements 28:13 Navigating the National Exam Landscape 29:58 Laugh Your Way to Licensure: A Supportive Approach 30:07 Closure Summary and Insight to the Next Episode Featured Research Article: Licensing Exam Pass Rate Disparities in Marriage and Family Therapy: Using an Analysis of Predictive Factors to Inform a More Equitable Licensing Exam Process Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

    31 min

  9. 12/30/2024

    Season 1 Episode 4: Year in Review & Looking Ahead (Rosemary Powell & Ina Qema)

    In this year-end episode, host Kelli-Ann Henry sits down with Rosemary Powell and Ina Qema to reflect on the highlights of the past year for the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network (NYMFTN). From exciting updates to important milestones, this conversation covers the growth of the network, the initiatives that have made an impact on the community, and what’s on the horizon for 2024. Rosemary and Ina share their perspectives on the challenges faced by the MFT community, how the network has evolved, and the critical goals for the coming year. Whether you’re a seasoned therapist or just starting out in the field, this episode provides valuable insights into how NYMFTN plans to continue supporting marriage and family therapists across New York. GUESTS: Rosemary Powell, MS, LMFT Rosemary Powell is the owner of Comfort Circle MFT. Comfort Circle is a Virtual Private Practice established in 2020, during the rise of COVID-19. The impact COVID-19 had on families and individuals cannot be overemphasized, Rosemary saw a problem and was dedicated to solving this problem with her expertise. Ina Qema, LAMFT Ina Qema is a LAMFT in NY where her work focuses more on couples and families. She is the co-chair for NYMFTN, an Interest Network Group of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), which advances the profession and the practice of marriage and family therapy. JOIN NYMFTN: Visit ⁠https://nymftherapistnetwork.com/⁠ for more information about our team and to join the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network.

    32 min

  10. 11/27/2024

    Season 1 Episode 3: A Unifying Framework for Family Therapy (Dr. Diane Gehart, PhD, LMFT)

    In this episode, Kelli-Ann Henry interviews Dr. Diane Gehart, a pioneer in the field of psychotherapy, about her transformative framework, Therapy that Works® - The Unifying Framework for Family Therapy. Dr. Gehart’s approach provides an integrative and evidence-informed model that is comprehensive enough to work with all clients. During the conversation, Dr. Gehart explains how The Unifying Framework for Family Therapy goes beyond traditional, one-size-fits-all therapy methods. This framework allows therapists to customize their approaches based on each client’s unique needs, life circumstances, and cultural context. She discusses the six elements of the Therapy that Works Unifying Framework for Family Therapy, offering insights on how to apply these elements in practice. Additionally, she highlights the four levels for conceptualizing interactional cycles related to both the “problem” and “solution” in family therapy, enabling therapists to view challenges and resolutions from multiple perspectives. Dr. Gehart also shares practical strategies for therapists to connect with clients in ways that minimize bias and foster greater understanding. She emphasizes the significance of entering the client’s worldview and meaning-making system. Kelli-Ann Henry and Dr. Diane Gehart conclude the episode by discussing the five Pillars of Wellness, which support both clinicians and clients in adopting healthy strategies that can positively enhance the therapeutic process. GUEST: Dr. Diane Gehart, PhD, LMFT Dr. Diane Gehart is a Professor in the Marriage and Family Therapy and Counseling Programs at California State University, Northridge, and the Director of the Institute for Therapy that Works. She has authored numerous titles including Mastering Competencies in Family Therapy, Theory and Treatment Planning in Counseling and Psychotherapy, Mindfulness for Chocolate Lovers: A Lighthearted Way to Stress Less and Savor More Each Day, and Mindfulness and Acceptance in Couple and Family Therapy, and has co-edited with Harlene Anderson Collaborative Therapy: Relationships and Conversations that Make a Difference and Collaborative-Dialogic Practice: Relationships and Conversations Across Contexts and Cultures. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ⁠Therapy That Works Institute: https://www.therapythatworksinstitute.com/therapythatworks JOIN NYMFTN: Visit ⁠⁠https://nymftherapistnetwork.com/⁠⁠ for more information about our team and to join the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network.

    44 min

  11. 10/25/2024

    Season 1 Episode 2: Diagnostic Privilege & Medicare (Dr. Carol Podgorski & Denise Murphy McGraw)

    Join host Kelli-Ann Henry as she dives into the transformative updates in marriage and family therapy, highlighting the exciting expansion of diagnostic privileges for MFTs and their eligibility as Medicare providers. In this anticipated episode, New York State advocates Carol Podgorski, PhD, MPH, LMFT, and Denise Murphy McGraw, CAE, share important updates that impact MFTs.The discussion uncovers vital topics such as Medicare eligibility, diagnostic privileges, and supervision requirements. To engage listeners and spark curiosity, Kelli-Ann invites everyone to play a game of True or False, shedding light on common misconceptions. Carol Podgorski and Denise Murphy McGraw provide expert guidance, empowering MFTs to confidently navigate these significant changes. Tune in to uncover the profound implications of marriage and family therapy and discover resources that can elevate your practice. This episode is tailored for emerging MFTs and professionals eager to embrace the latest developments and inspire positive change in their field. GUESTS: Carol Podgorski, PhD, MPH, LMFT Dr. Carol Podgorski is a medical family therapist and serves as a Professor and Associate Chair of Faculty Affairs in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Rochester. She is also the Director of the Finger Lakes Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease. Her academic interests focus on family therapy in dementia, medical family therapy approaches to caregiving, and the development of family systems and relationally oriented models of dementia care. Dr. Podgorski completed her doctoral degree in sociology and holds master’s degrees in Public Health and Marriage and Family Therapy.  Denise Murphy McGraw, CAE Denise Murphy McGraw is a partner at Hill, Gosdeck, McGraw & Nemeth (HGMN), where she specializes in advocating for professional attention to legislative and regulatory matters. She previously served as the legislative director for a majority member of the New York State Assembly and as the executive director of the Chamber of Commerce Alliance of New York State. Denise manages a diverse client portfolio and is actively involved in various local, state, and national not-for-profit organizations. Her areas of expertise include higher education, healthcare, and policy governance. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: MFTs in Medicare (AAMFT) Diagnostic Privilege for Certain Mental Health Practitioners (NYS Education Department)JOIN NYMFTN: Visit ⁠https://nymftherapistnetwork.com/⁠ for more information about our team and to join the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network.

    37 min

  12. 09/17/2024

    Season 1 Episode 1: Introducing NYMFTN (Rosemary Powell & Ina Qema)

    In our premiere episode, "Introducing NYMFTN," host Kelli-Ann Henry explores the valuable membership benefits of the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network alongside guests Rosemary Powell MS, LMFT (Chair Elect), and Ina Qema, LAMFT (Co-chair). The episode reveals the new NYMFTN website through an engaging pop quiz-style discussion. Whether you're a first-year MFT student, an emerging therapist, or an experienced clinician, this episode offers something for everyone! Tune in to uncover the exciting upcoming events and opportunities that NYMFTN has in store. Discover how you can engage and become part of our community of systemic thinkers! GUESTS: Rosemary Powell, MS, LMFT Rosemary Powell is the owner of Comfort Circle MFT. Comfort Circle is a Virtual Private Practice established in 2020, during the rise of COVID-19. The impact COVID-19 had on families and individuals cannot be overemphasized, Rosemary saw a problem and was dedicated to solving this problem with her expertise. Ina Qema, LAMFT Ina Qema is a LAMFT in NY where her work focuses more on couples and families. She is the co-chair for NYMFTN, an Interest Network Group of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), which advances the profession and the practice of marriage and family therapy. JOIN NYMFTN: Visit https://nymftherapistnetwork.com/ for more information about our team and to join the New York Marriage and Family Therapy Network.

    42 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

The NYMFTN Podcast is a welcoming space for all MFT professionals, including students, emerging therapists, and seasoned experts! Hosted by Kelli-Ann Henry, LMFT, this podcast features insightful interviews, discussions on the latest local and national issues, and a deep dive into the unique experiences of marriage and family therapy professionals. Our mission is to uplift the voices of MFTs at every stage of their career, fostering community and promoting shared professional interests across New York State. We invite you to listen, learn, and connect with us!

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