Connect Call

Hannah Brett

Connect Call is a mental-health podcast where real stories meet real solutions. Each episode, your host Hannah Brett shares a true, anonymized call from their work connecting families to crisis support. Then, the exact type of provider they would call in that situation joins the conversation to break down what’s happening — and what to do next. No fluff. No fear-mongering. No endless theories. Just clear steps, human stories, and the support people wish they had in the moment everything felt too big. Connect Call — because knowing who to call is half the battle.

  1. 3d ago

    EP27 - Beyond the Bubble: Why Staying Sober After Treatment Is the Hard Part | Joy & Dia

    Leaving treatment is just the beginning. What happens when the structure and support of a treatment program are no longer there? In this episode of The Connect Call Podcast, host Hannah Brett welcomes Joy Stevens and Dia Parsons of Alegria Collaborative to discuss the importance of continued support beyond treatment. They explore how case management, recovery coaching, family involvement, and personalized care can help individuals navigate real-life challenges and build lasting stability. Joy Stevens is the Founder and Partner of Alegria Collaborative. With extensive experience in recovery coaching and case management, she specializes in supporting individuals with complex mental health and substance use challenges. Dia Parsons is the CEO and Partner of Alegria Collaborative and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II). She focuses on bridging the gap between clinical treatment and everyday life through case management, recovery coaching, and family support. Key Topics: The difference between case management and recovery coachingWhy ongoing support is essential after treatmentHow personalized care can help reduce the risk of relapseThe role of family involvement and healthy boundariesRecognizing when residential treatment may be necessaryWhy professional oversight and collaboration matterMeeting individuals where they are in their recovery journeyLearning from setbacks and building long-term independence  Recovery doesn't end when treatment does. With the right support, accountability, and resources, individuals and families can navigate the challenges of life after treatment and continue moving toward lasting recovery. Tune in to The Connect Call Podcast for an important conversation about what it really takes to build a life beyond treatment. Useful links: All Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  2. Oct 22

    EP26 - Before You Trust the Treatment: Do Your Homework | Hannah Brett

    Choosing the right treatment program for a loved one can feel overwhelming but knowing what to look for and what questions to ask can make all the difference. In this solo episode of The Connect Call, host Hannah Brett discusses the importance of doing your homework before committing to a treatment provider. From recognizing red flags to understanding costs, credentials, and aftercare, Hannah shares practical insights to help families make informed decisions. Key Topics: Why researching treatment programs is essentialQuestions to ask about staff, credentials, and treatment approachesRed flags families shouldn't ignoreWhy exploring multiple options and referrals mattersUnderstanding insurance coverage and treatment costsThe importance of family involvement in the decision-making processHow to evaluate online reviews and verify program qualityWhy aftercare and long-term recovery planning matter  Finding the right treatment isn't just about availability or promises. It's about asking questions, verifying information, and choosing a program that truly meets your loved one's needs. Tune in to The Connect Call for an important conversation about making informed treatment decisions and advocating for the people you love. Useful links: Questions to Ask Treatment FacilitiesAll Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  3. Oct 15

    EP25 – What Nobody Tells Parents: The Truth About Recovery on Campus | Teresa Wren

    What happens when a student in recovery heads off to college? Finding the right support can make all the difference, but many families don't know what resources are available. In this episode of The Connect Call Podcast, Hannah Brett sits down with Teresa Wren, a pioneer in collegiate recovery, to explore how recovery programs on college campuses help students build community, maintain their recovery, and succeed academically. They discuss why these programs matter, the challenges of expanding them, and what parents should know when helping their students navigate higher education. Teresa Wren Johnston is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), addiction recovery specialist, and nationally recognized leader in collegiate recovery with over 19 years of experience in behavioral health. She founded the Center for Young Adult Addiction and Recovery at Kennesaw State University and served as the founding president of the Association of Recovery in Higher Education. Today, through her private practice, Wren Wellbeing, she provides counseling and consulting focused on addiction recovery, life transitions, relationships, and supporting individuals and families. Key Topics Discussed The history and evolution of collegiate recovery programsWhat recovery communities on college campuses look likeHow campus recovery programs support student successThe importance of connection and peer supportChallenges in expanding recovery resources across universitiesThe role of funding and institutional supportWhat parents should know about recovery resources in higher education Recovery doesn't have to take a backseat to education. With the right resources, community, and support, students in recovery can pursue their academic goals while continuing their healing journey. Useful links: Association for Recovery in Higher EducationAll Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  4. Oct 8

    EP24 - Beyond Therapy: How Therapeutic Consultants Support Family Healing | Cole & Maureen

    When your child or young adult is struggling, knowing where to turn—and who to trust—can feel overwhelming. On this week’s episode of The Connect Call Podcast, host Hannah Brett sits down with therapeutic consultants Cole Szabo and Maureen Brennan to explore how families can navigate complex mental health, behavioral, addiction, and educational challenges while finding the right support for their individual needs. Cole Szabo is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, certified Parent Coach, and trained ICF ADHD coach based in Nashville. Drawing from both professional and personal experience, Cole specializes in addiction, ADHD, mental health, and family relationships, helping families navigate difficult conversations, boundaries, and the path forward. Maureen Brennan is an Educational and Therapeutic Program Placement Consultant with more than 20 years of experience helping families understand their children’s unique strengths and needs. She works collaboratively with families and care professionals to identify schools, programs, and treatment options designed to support long-term success. In this episode: The role of a therapeutic consultant and when families may need oneSigns it may be time to seek additional supportHow to evaluate and choose qualified professionalsWhy collaboration between families and treatment providers mattersGathering the right information before making treatment decisionsPlanning beyond the immediate crisis for long-term successThe impact of family involvement throughout the process Finding the right path forward isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about knowing how to ask the right questions, build the right team, and make informed decisions for your family. Tune in for a practical conversation about navigating difficult seasons with greater clarity, collaboration, and support. Useful links: All Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  5. Oct 1

    EP23 - It’s Not Just Anxiety: What Most Doctors Miss About Hormones, Part 2 | Dr. Carly Snyder

    The conversation about hormones and mental health continues on The Connect Call Podcast, and in Part 2, Hannah Brett and reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Carly Snyder take a closer look at some of the most significant transitions in a woman’s life. From the realities of maternal mental health to postpartum depression and psychosis, Dr. Snyder explains the symptoms women and their families need to recognize, why early intervention matters, and how sleep and a strong support system can play an essential role during the postpartum period. Hannah and Dr. Snyder also turn the conversation toward menopause, exploring the impact hormonal changes can have on mental health and the potential benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy. Throughout the conversation, Hannah shares personal experiences while she and Dr. Snyder discuss why women shouldn't have to navigate these changes alone and why partners and family members need to understand what to look for and how to offer meaningful support. Key Topics Discussed: The realities and challenges of maternal mental healthThe role hormones can play in postpartum depression and psychosisSigns of postpartum psychosis and why immediate intervention mattersWhy sleep is so important for new mothersThe impact of menopause on mood and mental healthHormone replacement therapy and its potential benefits and risksThe importance of partners, family, and strong support systemsWhy proper diagnosis and individualized treatment matterContinuing to advocate for your mental health through every stage of life Women’s mental health doesn’t exist separately from their physical and hormonal health. Understanding how these pieces connect can help women, and the people who love them, recognize when something is wrong, ask better questions, and seek the right kind of support. Useful links: Postpartum Support InternationalAll Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  6. Sep 24

    EP22 - It’s Not Just Anxiety: What Most Doctors Miss About Hormones, Part 1 | Dr. Carly Snyder

    What if the anxiety, mood changes, or mental health symptoms you’re experiencing aren’t “just anxiety” but are connected to hormonal changes happening in your body? In Part 1 of this two-part episode of The Connect Call Podcast, host Hannah Brett sits down with Dr. Carly Snyder, a reproductive psychiatrist who specializes in women’s mental health across the reproductive life cycle. Dr. Snyder is passionate about helping women understand the connection between their hormonal health and mental well-being, particularly during major transitions such as menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Dr. Snyder explains what reproductive psychiatry is, why women may need a different approach to mental health care during certain stages of life, and how hormonal shifts can dramatically affect mood and emotional well-being. Hannah and Dr. Snyder also dive into PMDD, treatment options, and the stigma and misconceptions that can leave women feeling dismissed or misunderstood when seeking help. Key Topics Discussed: Dr. Snyder’s work as a reproductive psychiatristWhat reproductive psychiatry is and who it can helpHow hormonal shifts can affect mood and mental healthUnderstanding PMDD and available hormonal treatment optionsWhy women may benefit from specialized mental health careThe stigma and misconceptions surrounding women’s mental healthRecognizing when symptoms may be connected to reproductive hormonesHow women can better advocate for themselves when something doesn’t feel right Women deserve to have their symptoms taken seriously and understand the connection between hormones and mental health can be an important first step. And this conversation is only getting started. Be sure to come back next week for Part 2, when Hannah and Dr. Snyder continue the discussion with maternal mental health, postpartum depression and psychosis, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and the critical role of support. Useful links: Postpartum Support InternationalAll Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  7. Sep 17

    EP21 - Advocate Like a Pro: Tips for Effective Advocacy with Doctors | Nadea Egan

    What happens when you know something isn’t right, but you’re struggling to feel heard by your healthcare provider? In this episode of The Connect Call Podcast, Hannah Brett sits down with Nadea Egan for an important conversation about becoming a stronger advocate for yourself in healthcare. With nearly 15 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, Nadea shares practical strategies for communicating with medical professionals, asking the right questions, trusting your instincts, and recognizing the value of your own lived experience. Hannah and Nadea also explore the connection between hormones, reproductive health, and mental health, and why understanding those connections can be so important when seeking care. Nadea brings more than 25 years of experience in business management and operations to the conversation. After transitioning into behavioral healthcare in 2012, she went on to hold leadership roles across behavioral health and wellness organizations. In 2025, she co-founded Blackburn Clinical Services, an outpatient mental health center serving adults and adolescents. Key Topics Discussed: Why self-advocacy matters in healthcarePractical ways to advocate for yourself during medical appointmentsThe role expertise and experience play in understanding your own healthMalcolm Gladwell’s theory on practice and expertiseHow hormones and reproductive health can intersect with mental healthWhy listening to and trusting your instincts matters If you’ve ever left a doctor’s appointment wishing you had asked another question, spoken up, or pushed a little harder for answers, this conversation is for you. Useful links: All Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

  8. Sep 10

    EP20 - Rethinking Maternal & Women’s Mental Health: Finding Help & Being Seen with Dr. Noëlle Santorelli

    Join us this week on the Connect Call Podcast as Hannah Brett and Dr. Noelle Santarelli dive into the pressing gaps in women's mental health care, with a focus on postpartum and reproductive health. They share valuable insights from real cases, discuss systemic issues, and suggest practical steps to improve assessment and treatment for women experiencing distress. About Our Guest: Dr. Noëlle Santorelli Dr. Noëlle Santorelli, a clinical psychologist and adjunct faculty member at Emory University, is an expert in women's mental health and relationships. Her expertise spans relational aggression, modern motherhood pressures, and maternal mental health. Dr. Santorelli frequently shares her knowledge through media appearances, guiding women through the complexities of relationships and parenting. Her work has been featured on CNN, The Tamron Hall Show, Fox News, and in publications like The Wall Street Journal and Parents. Key Topics Discussed: Identifying gaps in postpartum mental health careThe critical role of in-person assessmentsUnderstanding hormonal influences on mental healthAddressing systemic inequities in mental health accessThe importance of rapport and art in therapyThe necessity of comprehensive psychological evaluationsEncouraging collaboration among healthcare providersThe impact of societal stigma on women seeking helpAdvocating for systemic changes to improve outcomes Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these issues and discover meaningful ways to support women's mental health. Useful links: Maternal Mental Health ResourcesAll Kinds of Therapy Resource ListContact Us - Resources & QuestionsBe a Guest and Tell Us Your StoryFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on FacebookSubscribe to Us on YouTube  About the Host: With nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health and treatment industry, Hannah Brett, Founder of HB Connect, is a trusted resource for providers, families, and organizations navigating the complex landscape of mental health care.  Over the course of her career, Hannah has partnered with leading national treatment centers to help ensure individuals and families receive compassionate, evidence-based support. Her unwavering advocacy for children's mental health, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her one of the most effective and sought-after voices in the field.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communications, Hannah brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and heart to every engagement.  Through HB Connect, she works with treatment programs and healthcare organizations to design outreach and growth strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful-always with the goal of improving access to quality care.  When she's not building connections in the mental health community, Hannah finds joy traveling to the UK to visit family, spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, and sharing life with her wife, Stacey, and their beloved pup, Frankie. Podcast Produced by Jen Kourtei at Savvy Edge Marketing

5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Connect Call is a mental-health podcast where real stories meet real solutions. Each episode, your host Hannah Brett shares a true, anonymized call from their work connecting families to crisis support. Then, the exact type of provider they would call in that situation joins the conversation to break down what’s happening — and what to do next. No fluff. No fear-mongering. No endless theories. Just clear steps, human stories, and the support people wish they had in the moment everything felt too big. Connect Call — because knowing who to call is half the battle.