The Unmasked Therapist Podcast

Keystone Therapy Group
  • 3.7 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Hosted by Kim Rippy, LPC, and Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT, of Keystone Therapy Group, The Unmasked Therapist explores how authenticity transforms the therapeutic relationship. Each episode offers clinical insight, real-world reflection, and practical takeaways for therapists at every stage of their journey. New episodes drop every Monday morning. Learn more at keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision or email podcast@keystonetherapygroup.com. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #TherapistLife #AuthenticTherapy #ClinicalSupervision #ResidentTherapist #SupervisionMatters

  1. 2d ago

    Re-release: Episode 6: Why Clients Cancel: Boundaries, No-Shows, and Real-World Clinical Work

    Re-release: In this episode, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠ talk about one of the most challenging and confusing parts of early clinical work: cancellations, no-shows, and inconsistent attendance. These moments bring up questions about boundaries, financial policies, client investment, and the balance between being human and being a clinician. We break down the differences between each type of missed session, how they impact the therapeutic relationship, and why your approach matters both clinically and ethically. Kaitlyn and Kim share how these situations show up in real sessions, why new clinicians often feel guilty or unsure about charging fees, and how to understand the clinical meaning behind patterns of missed appointments. They discuss the tension between being flexible and maintaining structure, how to navigate conversations about attendance with authenticity, and why consistency is foundational to therapeutic progress. You will also hear how supervision can support you in handling these moments without slipping into performance mode or abandoning your boundaries. Key Takeaways:• The clinical differences between no-shows, late cancellations, and inconsistent attendance• Why charging for missed sessions exists and how to understand client investment• How to hold boundaries without losing authenticity or compassion• What missed appointments can communicate clinically• The role of supervision in navigating guilt, uncertainty, and boundary-setting• How consistency and structure support safety in the therapeutic relationship Connect with us: Supervision: ⁠⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@TheUnmaskedTherapist⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠ If this episode was helpful, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. All therapy skills discussed should be used within the scope of your experience and with appropriate clinical supervision. #AuthenticTherapist #TherapistBoundaries #NoShows #TherapyBusiness #ClinicalSupervision #TherapistTraining #HumanCenteredTherapy #ClientEngagement #NewTherapistSupport

  2. Aug 10

    Episode 40: When Therapy Changes Relationships

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ explore a complicated question: Can therapy contribute to relationships ending? Drawing from their experiences working with individuals and couples, Kim and Kaitlyn discuss what happens when clients begin questioning their relationships, setting boundaries, and considering whether a relationship is still healthy for them. They explore the responsibility therapists have when clients look to them for guidance, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the authority therapists naturally hold in their clients’ lives while still allowing clients to make their own decisions. Rather than telling clients what to do, they discuss how therapists can help clients explore their options, consider multiple perspectives, and make intentional choices without inadvertently steering them toward the outcome the therapist believes is best. Throughout the conversation, Kim and Kaitlyn reflect on the difference between supporting a client’s decision and making that decision for them. They also discuss what happens when clients ask directly, “What do you think I should do?” and share an exercise they use to help clients connect with their own instincts when they feel stuck. In this episode, we discuss: • Whether therapy contributes to relationships ending • The therapist’s influence and authority in clients’ lives • Supporting clients without telling them what to do • How therapists can unintentionally steer clients toward a particular decision • Exploring both sides of a relationship decision without bias • The importance of client autonomy and intentional decision-making • What to do when a client asks, “What would you do?” • Using stuckness as an opportunity for reflection • Helping clients identify what they truly want and need • The difference between guiding a client and making a decision for them • Why a relationship ending is not necessarily a sign that therapy has failed Connect with us: Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠ Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapist Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #TherapistGrowth #TherapistBoundaries #ClientAutonomy #TherapeuticRelationship #ClinicalSkills #TherapistEducation #PrivatePractice #CouplesTherapy #RelationshipTherapy #HumanCenteredTherapy

  3. Aug 3

    Episode 39: Setting the Foundation for Therapy

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ continue their discussion on intake sessions by taking a closer look at informed consent. While informed consent is often viewed as a required administrative task, Kim and Kaitlyn explore how it can serve as the foundation for a strong therapeutic relationship and provide an opportunity to establish clear expectations, boundaries, and safety from the very beginning. Drawing from their experiences in both private practice and agency settings, they discuss the essential topics they cover with clients during a first session, including confidentiality, communication policies, scheduling expectations, cancellation fees, and therapist availability. They also share the lessons they have learned over the years, highlighting how informed consent evolves as therapists encounter new situations, refine their boundaries, and identify areas where greater clarity can benefit both clients and clinicians. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of transparency, consistency, and proactive communication. By approaching informed consent as more than just paperwork, therapists can reduce misunderstandings, strengthen the therapeutic alliance, and create a framework that supports effective clinical work from day one. In this episode, we discuss:• Key components of informed consent and why they matter• How confidentiality and its limits are explained to clients• Setting expectations around scheduling, cancellations, and communication• Establishing healthy boundaries early in the therapeutic relationship• The role of transparency in building trust and safety• How therapist experience shapes informed consent practices over time• Addressing common issues proactively rather than reactively• Special considerations when working with teens and families• Telehealth-specific boundaries and confidentiality considerations• Why informed consent is more than just a form to sign Connect with us:Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapistEmail: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #TherapistGrowth #InformedConsent #TherapistBoundaries #PrivatePractice #TherapyIntake #TherapeuticRelationship #ClinicalSkills #TherapistEducation #TelehealthTherapy #HumanCenteredTherapy

  4. Jul 27

    Episode 38: Are You Rescuing Them—or Yourself?

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, explore the therapist's urge to rescue clients from discomfort. Whether it shows up as offering reassurance, searching for answers, softening difficult realities, or trying to ease a client's pain, the desire to rescue often comes from a genuine place of care. But what happens when our efforts to help actually interfere with the therapeutic process? Kim and Kaitlyn discuss the many ways rescuing can appear in both individual and couples therapy, from sitting with grief and loss to navigating relational impasses where no easy solution exists. They explore how therapists can recognize their own discomfort, differentiate between regulation and rescuing, and develop the capacity to remain present with clients through difficult emotions rather than rushing toward relief. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the importance of honoring clients' experiences, trusting the therapeutic process, and allowing discomfort to serve its purpose. By examining the impulse to rescue, therapists can better understand what is happening within themselves and create space for deeper healing, growth, and connection. In this episode, we discuss:• What rescuing clients from discomfort looks like in therapy• How rescuing can show up in both individual and couples work• The connection between rescuing, countertransference, and therapist discomfort• The difference between helping, regulating, and rescuing• Working with grief, loss, and other emotionally intense experiences• Why discomfort is often necessary for growth and healing• How therapists can recognize and manage their own urge to rescue• The importance of honoring clients' experiences rather than minimizing them• Questions therapists can ask themselves when they notice the impulse to rescue• How authenticity and self-awareness support effective clinical work Connect with us: Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠ Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapist Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #TherapistGrowth #PersonOfTheTherapist #Authenticity #Countertransference #GriefWork #CouplesTherapy #IndividualTherapy #TherapeuticRelationship #ClinicalReflection #HumanCenteredTherapy

  5. Jul 20

    Episode 37: Navigating Countertransference and Authenticity

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, explore the challenging intersection of authenticity, countertransference, and ethics in the therapy room. They discuss what happens when a therapist’s own values, experiences, or reactions create a sticking point with a client—and how to determine what comes next. Kim and Kaitlyn explore the importance of recognizing personal reactions, seeking supervision and consultation, and doing the ongoing self-work required to show up ethically for clients. They discuss how therapists can distinguish between discomfort that requires reflection and situations where continuing the therapeutic relationship may no longer be appropriate. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that authenticity does not mean bringing personal opinions into the therapy room—it means understanding yourself as the person behind the therapist role and taking responsibility for what you bring into the relationship. By examining our own biases, blind spots, and reactions, therapists can create stronger, more compassionate, and more ethical therapeutic connections. In this episode, we discuss: • The connection between authenticity, countertransference, and the person of the therapist • How therapists can identify personal “sticking points” with clients • The difference between discomfort, bias, and ethical concerns • The role of supervision, consultation, and personal reflection in clinical growth • How to determine when to continue working with a client versus when referral may be appropriate • Navigating client referrals and terminations with compassion and professionalism • Why therapists must continually examine their own reactions and blind spots • How self-awareness helps therapists provide more ethical and effective care Connect with us: Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠ Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapist Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #Countertransference #PersonOfTheTherapist #TherapistIdentity #EthicalPractice #TherapistGrowth #ClinicalConsultation #TherapeuticRelationship #Authenticity #PrivatePractice #HumanCenteredTherapy

  6. Jul 13

    Episode 36: Consultation Calls That Build Trust

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠⁠⁠, continue their conversation about consultation calls by exploring why authenticity is one of the most important factors in creating meaningful client connections. Building on last week's discussion of consultation structure and purpose, they examine how consultation calls serve as a therapist's first opportunity to demonstrate what working together will actually feel like. Kim and Kaitlyn discuss the growing shift toward clients being more intentional and selective when choosing a therapist, highlighting how consultation calls have become an important space for assessing relational fit. They explore why authenticity helps establish trust, creates safety, and allows both therapist and client to determine whether the therapeutic relationship is a good match. Through personal stories and examples from their own practices, they reflect on the risks of masking, over-performing, or presenting a version of yourself that clients won't encounter once therapy begins. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that consultation calls are not simply a sales pitch—they are an opportunity to model transparency, consistency, and genuine human connection. By showing up authentically from the very first interaction, therapists can create a foundation of trust that supports deeper therapeutic work moving forward. In this episode, we discuss:• Why authenticity matters during consultation calls• How consultation calls set the tone for the therapeutic relationship• The growing trend of clients interviewing multiple therapists before choosing one• Avoiding the "bait and switch" effect of showing up differently after intake• How authenticity builds trust, safety, and confidence for clients• The impact of masking and over-performing on therapist effectiveness• Helping clients determine whether you are the right fit for their needs• Why consultation calls are an important part of informed decision-making• Creating consistency between your online presence and your in-session approach• Using authenticity to strengthen rapport from the very first interaction Connect with us:Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapistEmail: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #ConsultationCalls #Authenticity #PersonOfTheTherapist #TherapeuticRelationship #TherapistIdentity #PrivatePractice #ClientConnection #TherapistGrowth #TherapyPractice #HumanCenteredTherapy

  7. Jul 6

    Episode 35: Consultation Calls That Build Connection

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠⁠, explore the purpose and power of consultation calls through the lens of authenticity and the Person of the Therapist model. Beginning with an honest conversation about recognizing and correcting blind spots, they model what it looks like to take accountability, learn publicly, and approach growth with humility and compassion. From there, Kim and Kaitlyn break down the consultation process itself, discussing how therapists can move beyond simply gathering information to creating an authentic first experience of therapy. They explore how consultation calls allow both therapist and client to assess goodness of fit, demonstrate intentionality, and begin building trust before the first official session. Drawing from both individual and couples therapy perspectives, they share practical examples of how they structure consultation calls while remaining true to their own therapeutic styles. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that consultation calls are more than administrative conversations—they are an opportunity to model the type of therapeutic relationship clients can expect. By approaching these conversations with authenticity, clarity, and genuine curiosity, therapists can help clients feel seen, understood, and confident in taking the next step toward therapy. In this episode, we discuss:• Taking ownership of mistakes and modeling authentic accountability• Why consultation calls are about more than gathering information• Helping clients determine whether a therapist is the right fit• Creating a first experience that reflects your authentic therapeutic style• Balancing information gathering with genuine human connection• Structuring consultation calls for both individual and couples therapy• Demonstrating competence without sounding scripted or rehearsed• Helping clients understand what therapy with you will actually feel like• Setting appropriate boundaries while avoiding "doing therapy" during consultations• Building trust and hope before the first official session Connect with us:Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapistEmail: ⁠⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #ConsultationCalls #PrivatePractice #TherapistIdentity #PersonOfTheTherapist #Authenticity #TherapistGrowth #ClientConnection #CouplesTherapy #IndividualTherapy #TherapyPractice

  8. Jun 29

    Episode 34: Prioritizing Life Beyond the Therapy Room

    In this episode of The Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Clinical Supervisors ⁠⁠Kim Rippy, LPC⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠⁠, explore what it really means to put life before work. Building on their ongoing conversations about authenticity and the Person of the Therapist model, they discuss how therapists can identify their core values, prioritize the identities that matter most, and navigate the inevitable tension between caring for clients and caring for themselves and their families. Drawing from both personal and professional experiences—including recording the episode while balancing the realities of parenthood—Kim and Kaitlyn reflect on the challenges of maintaining a healthy life-work balance. They discuss the guilt therapists often feel when personal responsibilities interrupt clinical work, the importance of setting boundaries with clients, and how modeling authenticity and self-respect can strengthen the therapeutic relationship rather than diminish it. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that therapists are people first. Whether the identity that grounds you is being a parent, partner, caregiver, friend, or something else entirely, honoring those values creates a more sustainable career and a more authentic therapeutic presence. Rather than striving to be everything for everyone, therapists can better serve their clients by remaining connected to the people they are outside of the therapy room. In this episode, we discuss:• Why life-work balance may be a healthier perspective than work-life balance• Identifying the personal identities and values that guide your life• Navigating guilt when family responsibilities conflict with client care• How supervisors and colleagues can reinforce healthy boundaries• Why authenticity sometimes means letting clients see your humanity• Modeling healthy priorities and self-respect within the therapeutic relationship• The connection between personal identity, burnout prevention, and therapist sustainability• Giving yourself permission to prioritize what matters most• Supporting therapists through seasons of changing identities and responsibilities• Building a career that aligns with your values rather than competing with them Connect with us:Supervision: ⁠⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠⁠Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapistEmail: ⁠⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠⁠ If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ClinicalSupervision #TherapistIdentity #PersonOfTheTherapist #LifeWorkBalance #TherapistBurnout #Authenticity #Boundaries #TherapistGrowth #PrivatePractice #WorkingParents #SelfCare

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3.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hosted by Kim Rippy, LPC, and Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT, of Keystone Therapy Group, The Unmasked Therapist explores how authenticity transforms the therapeutic relationship. Each episode offers clinical insight, real-world reflection, and practical takeaways for therapists at every stage of their journey. New episodes drop every Monday morning. Learn more at keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision or email podcast@keystonetherapygroup.com. #TheUnmaskedTherapist #TherapistLife #AuthenticTherapy #ClinicalSupervision #ResidentTherapist #SupervisionMatters

Information

  • Creator
    Keystone Therapy Group
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Keystone Therapy Group
  • Show Website
    The Unmasked Therapist Podcast