Paradise Institute Podcast (Trauma, EMDR, and Veteran-Informed Care)

Tim Vermillion
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Paradise Institute Podcast is a thoughtful conversation about trauma, treatment, and learning along the way. Drawing on clinical work, EMDR, and experience with veterans and other high-exposure populations, the show looks at how trauma affects people—and what helps over time. Episodes include consultation-style discussions, teaching moments, and reflections on PTSD, moral injury, survivor guilt, identity, and recovery. Whether an episode leans practical or reflective, the goal is the same: to talk about trauma in a way that’s honest, grounded, and actually helpful.

Episodes

  1. 02/10/2025

    Veteran Tobacco Harm Reduction

    Send us a text In this podcast episode, host Doc V and Call Sign Wizard discuss the critical issue of tobacco-related illnesses among veterans and the need for effective harm reduction strategies. Highlighting alarming statistics, Doc V explains that 77 veterans die each day from smoking-related illnesses, totaling about 28,000 deaths per year. He draws attention to the inadequacy of current smoking cessation treatments and the potential benefits of e-cigarettes and vaping as alternatives. The episode emphasizes the need for better awareness, advocacy, and resources to address this public health crisis. Doc V encourages listeners, particularly therapists working with veterans, to take actionable steps in supporting tobacco harm reduction and improving veterans' health. 00:00 Introduction to Tobacco Harm Reduction 01:06 Veterans and Tobacco-Related Deaths 05:11 The Social and Stress Factors of Smoking in the Military 07:54 Nicotine's Effects and Misconceptions 10:28 E-Cigarettes and Vaping as Harm Reduction 16:54 Current Treatments and Their Limitations 27:40 Call to Action: Reducing Veteran Smoking Deaths 29:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    30 min

  2. 02/05/2025

    009 Clearing the Smoke: Real Talk on Veterans and Tobacco

    Send us a text 00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Discussion 00:23 The Issue of Tobacco Use Among Veterans 00:38 Challenges with Traditional Smoking Cessation 00:49 Exploring Harm Reduction 01:08 The Role of Vaping and E-Cigarettes 01:13 Deep Dive into Vaping Research 01:47 Realistic Conversations and Harm Reduction 02:10 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Description: Doc V from Call Sign Wizard announces an important discussion addressing tobacco use among veterans, scheduled for Monday at 3 p.m. The talk will focus on the high rates of tobacco use in the veteran community, the challenges associated with quitting, and the potential of harm reduction strategies like vaping and e-cigarettes. The session aims to provide an informed, realistic perspective on tobacco harm reduction, backed by research. It invites veterans, clinicians, and advocates to participate, promising a science-based, no-scare-tactics conversation about effective smoking cessation methods. Click to see: Facebook Invite Click to see and follow: Facebook Page Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    3 min

  3. 01/24/2025

    008 Veteran Positive Event Timeline: Unlocking Hidden Strengths

    Send us a text Skip to the end for the download! This episode of Call Sign Wizard, hosted by Doc V, focuses on helping therapists working with veterans to utilize a veteran's inherent strengths in the preparation phase of EMDR therapy. Doc V explains how to create and use a Positive Event Timeline to uncover and harness veterans' resilience, courage, and adaptability, which are often formed during their military careers. The timeline not only aids in reprocessing trauma but also serves as a tool for case conceptualization and treatment planning. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and reinforcing these positive qualities to provide the best care possible for veterans. Timeline 00:00 Introduction: Empowering Veterans with EMDR 00:27 Welcome to Call Sign Wizard 01:02 Understanding EMDR Phase 2: Preparation Phase 01:45 Creating a Positive Event Timeline 02:53 Exploring Military Career Strengths 04:20 Utilizing Collected Qualities for Healing 06:24 Final Thoughts and Resources Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1JsCZbK6nx/ Newsletter:  The Briefing Room: Tactics for Veteran Therapy Positive Event Timeline:  https://vermillion-ce.kit.com/2cfbcac9f6 Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    7 min

  4. 12/11/2024

    007 Survivors' Guilt, Moral Injury, and Stress: Holiday Insights for Therapists

    Send us a text Doc V from Call Sign Wizard discusses the emotional challenges veterans face during the holiday season, such as survivor's guilt and moral injury. The podcast provides therapists with strategies to support veterans through these difficult times, suggesting methods like acknowledging complex emotions, setting boundaries, and creating new traditions. Doc V emphasizes the importance of open dialogue with family members to manage expectations and reduce stress, ultimately aiming to transform the holidays into a meaningful period for veterans and their families. 00:00 Introduction to Holiday Challenges for Veterans 01:21 Understanding Survivor's Guilt 02:01 Exploring Moral Injury 02:41 Therapeutic Approaches for the Holidays 05:38 Navigating Family Expectations and Social Pressures 07:14 Managing Intimate Family Dynamics 08:27 Effective Communication and Compromises 09:49 Empathy and Understanding in Family Relationships 12:04 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    13 min

  5. 11/27/2024

    Transgender Troops: Facing Uncertainty with Resilience

    Send us a text Doc V from Call Sign Wizard addresses the uncertainty faced by transgender veterans and service members due to shifting military policies. The podcast episode delves into the history of transgender care, emphasizing the negative impacts of conversion therapy and the advancements led by pioneers like Dr. Harry Benjamin. It highlights the policies affecting transgender military personnel from 2016 to the present, underlining the personal and psychological toll of exclusionary policies. Doc V underscores the role of therapists in supporting transgender veterans by creating safe environments, advocating for inclusive policies, and respecting clients' self-determination. The episode concludes with a call to action for therapists to continue serving and supporting transgender veterans amidst ongoing challenges. 00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Wishes 00:32 Understanding the Issue: Transgender Military Ban 01:52 History of Transgender Care 04:38 Transgender Service Members in the Military 06:10 Impact of Policy Changes on Transgender Troops 07:50 Role of Therapists in Supporting Transgender Veterans 08:58 Call to Action and Advocacy 10:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    11 min

  6. 11/20/2024

    005 From Combat Zones to Bedrooms: The Veteran's Fight for Sleep

    Send us a text Why is sleep such a struggle for veterans, and what can therapists do to help? In this episode of Call Sign: Wizard, we dive deep into the unique challenges veterans face when it comes to sleep. From hypervigilance and nightmares to chronic pain and sleep apnea, we’ll explore the factors that keep veterans awake at night and the evidence-based strategies that can help them reclaim rest. Whether you're a therapist working with veterans or someone looking to better understand the sleep battle, this episode is packed with insights, practical tips, and actionable advice to guide the way. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:11 The Impact of Sleep Issues on Veterans 02:28 Understanding Hypervigilance 03:26 Trauma and PTSD Effects on Sleep 04:25 Physical Factors Affecting Sleep 06:47 Approaching Sleep Problems Differently 09:06 Effective Treatments for Sleep Issues 11:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    12 min

  7. 11/13/2024

    004 The Veteran Lense: An Intake Perspective

    Send us a text  In this episode of Call Sign: Wizard, we dive into what makes a veteran intake unique. From service rank to deployment experiences, family impact, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, I break down the essential questions that reveal the layers of a veteran’s journey.  00:00 Introduction to Veteran Intake 01:12 Understanding Military Rank and Culture 01:58 The Importance of Service Motivation 02:40 Family History and Military Service 03:04 The Role of Training and Placement 04:21 Deployment Experiences 05:26 Physical and Mental Injuries 05:53 Family Dynamics During Service 07:07 Transitioning to Civilian Life 07:52 High-Risk Activities and Coping Mechanisms 08:23 Impact of Discharge Type 09:15 Relationship with Veterans Affairs 09:53 Current Support Systems and Goals 10:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    11 min

  8. 11/05/2024

    003 Election Fallout: Supporting Veterans in a Divided Climate

    Send us a text In this episode of Call Sign: Wizard, we’re diving into the unique challenges veterans face in the wake of Election Day. With tensions high and political rhetoric amplified, many veterans may experience intensified anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and a growing sense of distrust. As therapists, it’s crucial to provide grounding and stability, helping our clients navigate post-election stress without getting swept up in the noise. Join Doc V, veteran and therapist, as he explores strategies for addressing election-related triggers, managing media exposure, and fostering resilience amid heightened uncertainty. Learn how to offer support without reinforcing fears, create a neutral and safe space, and help veterans regain a sense of control and agency in turbulent times. Whether you’re new to working with veterans or a seasoned therapist, this episode offers timely insights and practical approaches for supporting those who served. References: Bouvet, M., Deneve, A., Rouault, M. L., et al. (2024). Conspiracy beliefs and perceptual inference in times of political uncertainty. Scientific Reports, 14, Article 59434. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-59434-4Fraser, T., Panagopoulos, C., & Smith, K. (2023). Election-related post-traumatic stress: Evidence from the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Politics and the Life Sciences, 42(2), 123-135. https://doi.org/10.1017/pls.2023.800:00 Introduction to Call Sign Wizard 00:07 Impact of the Election on Veterans 00:50 The Role of Media and Fear 00:59 Challenges Veterans Face 01:16 Podcast Purpose and Host Introduction 01:54 Therapist's Role and Bias Management 02:29 Veterans' Feelings of Helplessness 03:09 Therapeutic Strategies for Veterans 03:45 Addressing Conspiracy Beliefs 04:17 Election-Related PTSD 05:01 Therapist's Approach to Support 05:18 Practical Tips for Therapists 07:32 Establishing Predictability and Structure 07:59 Preparing for Increased Symptoms 09:07 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    9 min

  9. 10/30/2024

    002 Veterans and Chronic Pain

    Send us a text Doc V examines the complexities of chronic pain within the Veteran experience, providing insights and strategies to help understand and manage its impact on daily life after service.  Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    11 min

  10. 10/23/2024

    001 EMDR and Call Sign: Wizard Welcome!

    Send us a text Doc V (Tim Vermillion) introduces himself and Call Sign: Wizard, before delving into Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR. Thank you for tuning in to Call Sign: Wizard. If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. Remember, the work we do with veterans is vital, and together, we’re making a difference one session at a time. For more insights and resources tailored to therapists who work with veterans, follow us on Facebook. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue exploring the challenges and triumphs in veteran mental health. Until next time, stay grounded, stay informed, and keep doing the work that matters

    19 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Paradise Institute Podcast is a thoughtful conversation about trauma, treatment, and learning along the way. Drawing on clinical work, EMDR, and experience with veterans and other high-exposure populations, the show looks at how trauma affects people—and what helps over time. Episodes include consultation-style discussions, teaching moments, and reflections on PTSD, moral injury, survivor guilt, identity, and recovery. Whether an episode leans practical or reflective, the goal is the same: to talk about trauma in a way that’s honest, grounded, and actually helpful.

Information