Therapist Voices @ ReachLink

ReachLink

OverviewTherapist Voices is a podcast for mental health professionals, hosted by Jessica Hurwitz, Network Manager at ReachLink. In each episode, Jess sits down with licensed therapists to explore their unique approaches to therapy, clinical insights, and experiences in the evolving landscape of digital mental health care. From seasoned clinicians to emerging voices in the field, Therapist Voices offers an authentic behind-the-scenes look at the practice of therapy. Whether discussing therapeutic modalities, client engagement strategies, the transition to teletherapy, or the realities of building a sustainable counseling practice, each conversation provides valuable perspectives for fellow therapists navigating their own professional journeys. Join us for candid discussions that celebrate the diverse expertise within the mental health community and foster connection among therapists committed to providing accessible, quality care. New episodes available on YouTube and major podcast platforms.

  1. MAY 5

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Amanda Martin, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC, BCN-L

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Amanda Martin, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC, BCN-L, a specialist in complex trauma and an expert in integrating modalities like EMDR, neurofeedback, and equine-assisted therapy. Amanda shares how her highly individualized approach allows her to treat complex clinical presentations without fragmenting care across multiple providers. We explore the foundations of EMDR, how past experiences shape present-day emotional and physiological responses, and why reprocessing those experiences can lead to profound shifts in regulation, behavior, and self-perception. We also dive into her unique work in peak performance—particularly with athletes and performers—where she applies EMDR not only to heal trauma but to enhance focus, confidence, and flow states. Amanda explains how fear-based patterns can disrupt performance and how reconnecting clients to their “best moments” can restore optimal functioning. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 00:25 – Meet Amanda Martin & Her Specialties 03:32 – EMDR 101: How It Works 07:09 – Do Clients Know Their Root Trauma? 08:55 – The Power of Connecting the Dots 09:49 – Vulnerability in the Therapy Process 11:03 – Single-Incident vs. Complex Trauma 13:38 – EMDR for Peak Performance 14:05 – Working with Athletes & Performers 15:21 – Fear vs. Flow States 18:33 – ReachLink Ad Break 19:50 – Who Seeks Peak Performance Work? 21:02 – Working with Youth & Early Intervention 23:05 – Parenting Opportunities for Emotional Support 23:42 – Teaching Emotional Awareness Early 26:24 – Can Systems Change? Schools & Beyond 26:45 – A School Model That Worked 29:10 – Seeing Beyond Behavior 30:33 – How Quickly EMDR Can Work 31:35 – Flexibility in Working with Athletes 32:27 – Accessibility of Care & Meeting Clients Where They Are Guest Bio Amanda Martin, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC, BCN-L, is a licensed therapist and trauma specialist with extensive training in EMDR, neurofeedback, and family therapy. She is board certified in neurofeedback and an EMDRIA Certified Therapist, Consultant, and Trainer. Amanda specializes in treating complex trauma through an integrative, individualized approach and is known for her work in EMDR-informed peak performance and equine-assisted therapy. She works with individuals, families, athletes, and performers to help them achieve regulation, healing, and optimal functioning. Links Follow Amanda Martin: Website → https://amandamartincounseling.com/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/amandamartincounselingpllc/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-martin-99739b78 Additional Resources: Symbolic Experiential Family Therapy (2011) Is Intuition an Influential Factor in Marital Partner Selection? (Dissertation) Connect with ReachLink Website → https://reachlink.com/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities → https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    34 min
  2. APR 29

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Madeline Maldonado, LCSW-R

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Madeline Maldonado, LCSW-R, President and Founder of Minnette Psychotherapy Services and Executive Director of the Minnette Foundation, about the realities of building a private practice, the gaps in graduate training, and what it truly takes to succeed as both a clinician and a business owner. Madeline shares her journey from an early passion for helping others to pivoting from engineering into social work, and how her early experiences in community mental health—particularly during times of crisis—shaped her clinical identity. We explore the “bootcamp” nature of community clinics, the importance of supervision and diagnostic confidence, and why many therapists underestimate the demands of running a practice. Finally, we discuss her vision behind the Minnette ecosystem, expanding mental health beyond therapy rooms into community impact, and creating a pipeline of confident, well-trained clinicians ready to meet growing demand. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 00:25 – Meet Madeline Maldonado & Her Roles 02:42 – Pivot from Engineering to Social Work 05:56 – Starting as a Therapist Pre-9/11 06:38 – Baptism by Fire: Working Through Crisis 10:20 – Challenges of Community Mental Health 16:39 – Transitioning Toward Private Practice 20:00 – Learning Business Responsibilities Early 25:21 – Financial Reality of Private Practice 31:05 – Reducing Stigma in Mental Health Settings 34:12 – Launching a Practice During COVID-19 38:30 – Financial Struggles in Early Practice Years 41:48 – ReachLink Ad Break 43:05 – Therapists as Multi-Skilled Professionals 44:18 – Mentorship & Training New Clinicians 48:05 – The Minnet Ecosystem Explained 50:00 – Training Future Therapists 52:36 – Making the Field More Accessible 53:51 – Full Circle: Giving Back to Community 57:21 – Final Reflections & Closing Guest Bio Madeline Maldonado, LCSW-R, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in mental health. She is the President and Founder of Mannette Psychotherapy Services and Executive Director of the Minnette Foundation. Madeline specializes in clinical training, supervision, and building accessible, culturally competent mental health services. She is passionate about mentoring therapists and expanding care for underserved communities. Links Follow Madeline Maldonado & Minnette: Website → https://www.minettepsychotherapy.com/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/madelinemaldonado_lcsw/ LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmaldonado-lcswr/ Latinx in Social Work → https://www.amazon.com/Latinx-Social-Work-Stories-communities/dp/1952779766 Connect with ReachLink Website → https://reachlink.com/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities → https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    59 min
  3. APR 22

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Jodi Mullen, PhD, LMHC, RPT-S

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Jodi Mullen, PhD, LMHC, RPT-S, about child-centered play therapy, working effectively with children in therapy, and why most clinicians aren’t fully trained to treat kids. Jodi shares how she discovered play therapy after struggling with traditional, structured approaches—and how shifting to a child-led model transformed her work. We explore how play functions as a child’s primary language, the importance of boundaries and limit-setting, and how therapists can build real trust and safety with young clients. We also discuss common misconceptions about play therapy, adapting sessions for telehealth, and the critical gap between learning child development and actually practicing child therapy. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 00:25 – Meet Jodi Mullen & Her Credentials 01:09 – Journey into Working with Children 02:24 – Struggles with Early Clinical Work 02:49 – Discovering Play Therapy 03:26 – Gaps in Training for Child Therapy 05:33 – Working with Systems (Family & Schools) 06:07 – Jodi’s Role as Counselor Educator 08:22 – Clinical Work Across Settings 08:51 – Adapting Play Therapy to Telehealth 10:17 – Creativity in Virtual Sessions 11:13 – Building Connection with Children Online 12:00 – What is Child-Centered Play Therapy? 13:18 – Misconceptions & System Pressures 14:17 – Letting the Child Lead (With Limits) 15:05 – Creating True Safety in Therapy 16:04 – Addressing Criticism of Play Therapy 16:51 – Limit-Setting as a Core Skill 19:04 – Play as Communication 20:47 – Thinking on Your Feet in Sessions 23:14 – Why Therapists Avoid Questions 22:45 – ReachLink Ad Break 24:00 – Final Reflections & Closing Guest Bio Jodi Mullen, PhD, LMHC, RPT-S, is a counselor educator, licensed mental health counselor, and registered play therapist supervisor with over 30 years of experience. She specializes in child-centered play therapy and trains clinicians worldwide to work effectively with children using developmentally appropriate, play-based approaches. Links Follow Jodi Mullen: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/drjodimully/ YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-wIAbDLKThMNSDBvZRsmHw LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-mullen-phd-lmhc-d-rpt-s-748ba521/ Connect with ReachLink Website → https://reachlink.com/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities → https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    45 min
  4. APR 14

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | MeKenzie Russell Lane, LPC/MHSP

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with MeKenzie Russell Lane, LPC/MHSP, Owner & Therapist at Bloom Well Counseling, about grief work, trauma integration, and building meaningful community support systems for those navigating loss. A unique highlight of this conversation is MeKenzie’s integration of therapy animals into her practice. She shares how her French bulldog, June Lane, became an unexpected but powerful therapeutic presence, offering grounding, comfort, and even emotional regulation during sessions. We also dive into MeKenzie’s work with Heartlight Center, where she facilitates grief support groups that emphasize accessibility, community, and shared experience. She discusses the power of peer support, the universality of grief, and how group settings can help individuals feel less alone in their most difficult moments. Above all, this episode highlights the complexity of grief—the coexistence of love, anger, guilt, and longing—and the importance of spaces where all emotions are valid, welcomed, and understood. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 00:25 – Meet MeKenzie & Her Therapy Dog, June 01:52 – Journey into Grief Work 03:00 – Understanding Grief Literacy 03:54 – Trauma and Loss Connection 05:12 – EMDR in Grief Therapy 06:55 – The Role of Therapy Animals 08:30 – Heartlight Center & Community Grief Support 13:03 – Building a Group Practice 16:50 – Navigating Complex Emotions in Grief 17:40 – “Both Can Be True” – DBT Perspective 22:30 – Is It Ever “Too Soon” for Grief Support? 24:58 – Types of Grief Groups Offered 26:00 – Preventing Therapist Burnout 29:00 – Seasonal Triggers & Grief 31:00 – The Healing Path Experience 34:00 – Final Thoughts & Closing Guest Bio MeKenzie Russell Lane, LPC/MHSP, is a licensed professional counselor and Owner of Bloom Well Counseling. She specializes in grief, trauma, and EMDR, and is passionate about creating accessible, community-centered mental health support. She also serves as a community liaison with Heartlight Center, where she facilitates grief support groups and helps expand resources for individuals navigating loss. Links Follow MeKenzie Russell Lane: Website → https://www.bloom-well-counseling.com Heartlight Center → https://www.bloom-well-counseling.com/heartlight-center Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/bloomwellcounselingtn/ Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/bloomwellcounselingtn LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/mekenzie-russell-lane-m-ed-lpc-mhsp-47567763/ Connect with ReachLink Website → https://reachlink.com/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities → https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    35 min
  5. APR 8

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Meghan Sunayna Mehta, LCSW in NY

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Meghan Sunayna Mehta, LCSW, clinical director and owner of Little Brown Therapy, about cultural competence in therapy, trauma-informed care, and expanding access to mental health services for underserved communities. Meghan shares how her work centers on decolonizing traditional therapy models and creating spaces where clients’ lived experiences, culture, and identity are truly honored. Meghan reflects on her personal journey—from a pre-med path and corporate career to becoming a therapist driven by a mission to destigmatize mental health in the South Asian community. She opens up about the impact of her sister’s diagnosis and loss, and how that experience shaped her commitment to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care. We explore topics like EMDR and trauma treatment accessibility, the importance of therapists accepting insurance, and how representation in mental health care can transform the client experience. Meghan also shares insights on building a private practice, mentoring clinicians of color, and developing group therapy programs that meet diverse community needs. Above all, this episode highlights the importance of feeling seen, understood, and supported in therapy—and the powerful role culturally competent care plays in healing. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 00:25 – Cultural Competence and Decolonizing Therapy 01:52 – Meghan’s Journey into Mental Health 03:00 – Mental Health Stigma in South Asian Communities 03:54 – Personal Loss and Purpose-Driven Work 05:12 – Trauma-Informed Care and EMDR 06:55 – Building a Private Practice 08:30 – Business Challenges and Growth 08:34 – Group Therapy Offerings (Breakups, DBT, Immigrant Support) 11:37 – Referrals and Client Relationships 12:12 – In-Person vs. Virtual Therapy 13:03 – Educating on Cultural Competence 14:57 – Finding the Right Therapist 16:50 – Couples Work and Family Dynamics 17:40 – How to Connect with Meghan Guest Bio Meghan Sunayna Mehta, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New York and the founder of Little Brown Therapy, a practice focused on culturally competent, trauma-informed care. She specializes in EMDR and works primarily with individuals from diverse and underserved communities, with a strong focus on supporting people of color. Meghan is passionate about increasing accessibility in mental health care by accepting insurance and mentoring clinicians to provide inclusive, high-quality care. Links Follow Meghan Sunayna Mehta, LCSW: Website → https://littlebrowntherapy.com/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/littlebrowntherapy/ Connect with ReachLink Website → https://reachlink.com/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities → https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    19 min
  6. MAR 31

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Dr. Suzette Fagan, LCSW, DSW

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Dr. Suzette Fagan, LCSW, DSW, CEO and Founder of Door-to-Door Therapy, about trauma-informed care, accessibility in mental health, and meeting clients where they are—literally and emotionally. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Fagan shares how her personal journey shaped her mission to remove barriers to care and create flexible, client-centered therapy models. Dr. Fagan reflects on her upbringing as a Jamaican immigrant, the impact of unspoken trauma, and the cultural expectations around strength that often discourage vulnerability. She discusses how these experiences influenced her path into mental health and her commitment to helping individuals find their voice and healing. Above all, this episode is a powerful reminder that healing is a continuous journey—and that support, connection, and transformation are always possible. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 00:56 – Expanding Across States & Access to Care 02:07 – Dr. Fagan’s Background and Early Trauma 05:06 – Cultural Expectations and Vulnerability 07:04 – Concierge Therapy and “Having It Your Way” 07:35 – COVID-19 and Flexible Therapy Models 10:12 – Balancing Practice, Purpose, and Self-Care 12:21 – Training and Mentorship in Therapy 13:34 – Telehealth and Creating Presence 14:27 – Authentic, Non-Formulaic Therapy 15:13 – Working with Adolescents and Autonomy 16:00 – Family Systems and Building a Support Network 17:22 – Parenting, Community, and Raising Resilient Children 19:30 – Healing While Living 20:34 – Faith and Mental Health 21:02 – Personal Crisis and Custody Battle 24:00 – Depression, Suicidal Ideation, and Turning Points 25:36 – Faith as a Tool for Healing 27:06 – Meeting Clients Where They Are 29:22 – Rebuilding Faith and Identity 31:29 – Healing vs. Wholeness Guest Bio Dr. Suzette Fagan, LCSW, DSW, is the CEO and Founder of Door-to-Door Therapy, a multi-state mental health practice dedicated to providing accessible, flexible, and client-centered care. With over 20 years of experience in trauma-informed therapy, Dr. Fagan specializes in helping individuals and families navigate complex emotional challenges, including trauma, depression, and life transitions. Links Follow Dr. Suzette Fagan, LCSW, DSW: Website → https://door2doortherapy.com/  Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/door2doortherapy/  Raising Davids → https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Davids-Suzette-Fagan/dp/B0F3XZ3R5N When ‘Till Death do us Part’ Ends → https://www.amazon.com/When-Till-Death-Part-Ends/dp/B0DSW2QHSN Connect with ReachLink: Website → https://reachlink.com/ LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities → https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    41 min
  7. MAR 18

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Eva M. Gordon, LCSW

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Eva M. Gordon, LCSW, founder of Life Guide, about culturally responsive care, burnout, and helping Black professional women reconnect with themselves through therapy. Eva shares her journey from child welfare work in Brooklyn to becoming a psychotherapist, and how a pivotal moment with a young client inspired her to pursue a career in mental health. We explore topics like identity, boundaries, workplace stress, and the emotional weight of being “the strong one.” Eva discusses how many of her clients struggle with burnout and disconnection after years of prioritizing others, and how therapy can help them rebuild self-awareness and restore balance. Eva also highlights her holistic, client-centered approach, which considers mental, physical, and environmental factors, as well as her use of expressive writing as a tool for deeper reflection and healing. Beyond individual therapy, she discusses her work in community spaces, including workshops and faith-based initiatives that aim to make mental health education more accessible. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 01:05 – Eva’s Journey into Social Work and Therapy 03:20 – Supporting Black Professional Women 05:40 – Virtual Therapy and Accessibility 09:00 – Building Connection in Telehealth 12:10 – Maintaining Quality of Care 13:20 – Boutique Practice and Workshops 16:00 – Mental Health Education in Communities 18:20 – Holistic and Client-Centered Care 21:00 – Faith, Service, and Community Work 22:00 – Substance Use and Harm Reduction 26:00 – Therapeutic Alliance and “Life Guide” Concept 28:00 – Writing as a Healing Tool 33:00 – What’s Next for Eva Guest Bio Eva M. Gordon, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker based in New York and the founder of Life Guide, a private practice focused on supporting mental health and wellness within the Black community. Her work primarily focuses on Black professional women navigating stress, burnout, relationship challenges, and identity development. Eva takes a holistic and client-centered approach, integrating emotional, physical, environmental, and spiritual aspects of care. In addition to her clinical work, Eva provides community workshops, supports faith-based initiatives, and incorporates expressive writing as a therapeutic tool to help clients deepen self-awareness and healing. Linka Follow Eva M. Gordon: Website → https://abetterlifewitheva.com Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lifeguidelcsw/ Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581410473232 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@EvaGordonabetterlife Connect with ReachLink: Website → https://reachlink.com LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities: https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    34 min
  8. MAR 16

    Therapist Voices @ ReachLink | Jasmine Young, CTP

    In this episode of Therapist Voices @ ReachLink, we speak with Jasmine Young, founder of ONE80 Health and Wellness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals who have experienced trauma and helping communities better understand how trauma impacts identity, behavior, and healing. Jasmine shares the personal experiences that led her into trauma-informed work. After going through a major life transition following a divorce, she began researching trauma and its effects on the body and nervous system. That journey helped her recognize how survival patterns formed through difficult experiences can shape identity and behavior over time. Originally working in marketing and sales for more than 15 years, Jasmine later transitioned into the mental health field while working in a trauma-focused behavioral transition school. Seeing how trauma affected children, educators, and families inspired her to create ONE80 Health and Wellness to provide more accessible trauma-informed education and support. Through workshops, training programs, and individual coaching, Jasmine helps individuals and organizations better understand trauma responses and emotional regulation. Her work focuses on helping people reconnect with their authentic sense of self beyond the survival patterns created by past experiences. Whether you're a therapist, educator, workplace leader, or someone interested in understanding trauma and identity, this episode explores how awareness and trauma-informed approaches can support healing and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 – Episode Introduction 01:05 – Meet Jasmine Young 03:20 – From Marketing to Trauma Work 06:00 – Understanding Trauma and Survival Mode 09:30 – Working with Children in Trauma-Informed Schools 14:40 – Identity Reconstruction and Self-Concept 20:10 – Trauma in the Workplace 25:30 – Workshops and Mother–Daughter Programs 29:45 – Coaching, Assessments, and Personal Readiness 33:40 – Expanding ONE80 Health and Wellness 37:30 – Final Thoughts + ReachLink Mission Guest Bio Jasmine Young is the founder of ONE80 Health and Wellness, a nonprofit organization focused on trauma healing through education, coaching, and trauma-informed training. Her work helps individuals and organizations understand how trauma shapes identity, behavior, and emotional regulation. Jasmine works with schools, communities, and workplaces to provide practical strategies for recognizing trauma responses and supporting healthier communication and relationships. She is currently developing a framework centered on identity reconstruction and trauma awareness to help expand trauma-informed education across communities. Links Follow Jasmine Young: Website → https://one80healthandwellness.org LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmcgaha/ Connect with ReachLink: Website → https://reachlink.com LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/company/reachlink Learn more about therapist opportunities: https://reachlink.com/for-providers/

    24 min

About

OverviewTherapist Voices is a podcast for mental health professionals, hosted by Jessica Hurwitz, Network Manager at ReachLink. In each episode, Jess sits down with licensed therapists to explore their unique approaches to therapy, clinical insights, and experiences in the evolving landscape of digital mental health care. From seasoned clinicians to emerging voices in the field, Therapist Voices offers an authentic behind-the-scenes look at the practice of therapy. Whether discussing therapeutic modalities, client engagement strategies, the transition to teletherapy, or the realities of building a sustainable counseling practice, each conversation provides valuable perspectives for fellow therapists navigating their own professional journeys. Join us for candid discussions that celebrate the diverse expertise within the mental health community and foster connection among therapists committed to providing accessible, quality care. New episodes available on YouTube and major podcast platforms.