Finding Your Way Through Therapy Steve Bisson

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Have you ever felt a song resonate so deeply that it seemed to echo the very chambers of your soul? Imagine a therapeutic space where such profound connections are not just possible but are the cornerstone of healing. Today, we're joined by the remarkable Maya  Benattar, who guides us on an exploratory journey through the world of music therapy. With Maya's expertise, we unravel how music's transformative power is not just for children but a tool for emotional expression and personal growth at any age.

From the authentic presence of a therapist to the cathartic release found in a drumbeat, this episode illuminates the nuances of creative arts therapies. Maya's personal passion for music harmonizes with her professional mission, offering a symphony of insights into how therapists can show up genuinely, creating a bond where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. We discuss the universal language of music, and how it requires no prior expertise to tap into its rhythm—an intrinsic part of our being that can be reclaimed and strengthened through therapy.

Closing on a high note, we debunk myths about music therapy, emphasizing its accessibility to all, regardless of musical background. The episode crescendos with a look at the entire spectrum of life stages where music therapy plays a role—from prenatal care to hospice—underscoring its capacity to enhance emotional regulation and self-expression. If Maya's insights strike a chord, then this listening experience promises to be nothing short of enlightening, offering a new perspective on the healing arts and how they can be integrated into our lives.

Visit Maya Benattar at www.mayabenattar.com
IG: www.instagram.com/mayabenattar 
FB: https://www.facebook.com/mayabenattarlcat/
X: https://twitter.com/MayaBenattar


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Celebrating a momentous 150 episodes, we share the microphone with the astute Lien Doubleday, whose 20 years in mental health have sculpted her into a beacon of wisdom. This special episode unfurls the complex tapestry of cultural influence on mental wellness, as Lien navigates the nuanced stories from the heart of Central Massachusetts, adding soul to the science of therapy. Her anecdotes remind us that beyond the struggles often hidden by societal stigmas, lies a community yearning for connection and understanding — a theme that resonates deeply with anyone passionate about human stories.

Imagine living amid a cultural mosaic where acknowledging your own mental health can feel like an insurmountable feat. Our discussion traverses this rocky terrain, confronting the silent battles waged behind closed doors, with tales of immigration, generational trauma, and the delicate balance of upholding tradition while seeking healing. We dissect the readiness required for therapy, challenging the myth of universal solutions, and celebrate the brave individuals who, by seeking professional support, embody remarkable strength.

As we wrap up this landmark session, we send out a heartfelt invitation to join us for an unforgettable event on May 9th, where stories, just like the ones shared today, will continue to light the way.

To attend the event, please visit www.fightthestigma2.eventbrite.com
or www.namicentralmass.org
To work with Lien, visit Serenitycoachingcounseling.com





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When silence is no longer an option, the voice of change rings out. Join us as we sit down with Austin Ives and Justin Jacobs of Mindstrong Guardians, who channel their own battles with mental health into a force for good within the military and first responder communities. They're not guests; they're beacons of hope, guiding veterans like Justin, who after decades in the Coast Guard, now dedicates his life to coaching others through their transitions. And warriors like Austin, who openly shares his fight with PTSD and depression, revealing the lifelines of coping strategies and peer support that have saved him.

Navigating the stormy seas of trauma, especially for those in roles as demanding as the Coast Guard, can feel like an endless battle. But in our heartfelt discussion, we uncover the silent epidemic of cumulative stress and the urgent need for ongoing mental health intervention. It's not just about having someone to talk to; it's about building a continuum of care that starts from day one of service. Listen as we honor the history and sacrifices of our first responders, and recognize the invaluable skills, like active listening, they carry forward into future endeavors, transforming pain into purpose.

We wrap up with an eye-opening look at the evolution of Mindstrong Guardians' mission to reshape mental health support for those who've served. Rejecting the stigma associated with seeking help, Austin, Justin, and their partner, Stephen Chamberlain, share an inspiring vision for mental wellness that defies traditional boundaries. The shift from a not-for-profit mindset to a more sustainable for-profit model, influenced by the wisdom of Admiral Thad Allen, underlines their commitment to authentic, relatable programs promoting post-traumatic growth. These stories aren't just shared; they're a rallying cry for a cultural shift where mental health is as prioritized as physical fitness.

Go check out the website at  https://mindstrong-guardians.com/


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Ever feel like the solo act in a world of ensemble casts? That's the thread we tug at in our latest heart-to-heart, as Courtney Romanowski and I welcome the vibrant Jen (Jay) Nakhai, and new dad, Brody Clemmer, to the mix. We peel back the layers of what it means to grow up as an only child, touching on the bittersweet longing for siblings and the imaginative solutions we concocted to keep loneliness at bay. Jen's fiery passion for community meets Brody's fresh paternal insights, creating a tapestry of stories that reveal how a singular upbringing shapes everything from our therapy practices to the way we forge and nurture connections throughout our lives.

Laughter mingles with earnestness as we revisit the echoes of Hungry Hungry Hippos and the significance of those we choose to call family—biological or otherwise. Our conversation weaves through the nostalgic avenues of childhood and into the complex interplay of relationships in adulthood, juxtaposing personal revelations with intriguing research on human connection. Whether you're an only child yourself or simply curious about how different family dynamics leave their mark, this episode promises a compelling look at the ties that bind us, in blood and in spirit, to the hearts we hold dear.

You can reach Brody Clemmer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brodyclemmer/
Here is his website: https://brodyclemmer.com/
His company's website is: https://koahealth.com/

You can reach Jay Nakhai's from this website:  https://getaeonhelp.com/

Courtney Romanowski can be reached at: https://www.anewdirectiontherapy.com/


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Ever felt like you're faking it, just waiting for someone to discover you're not as talented or competent as they think? You're not alone. Join me,  Steve Bisson,  as I unravel the complexities of imposter syndrome, a psychological phenomenon where self-doubt lingers despite evident success. This episode is a deep dive into the heart of those nagging feelings that whisper 'you're a fraud', a sentiment all too common among high achievers and professionals alike. 

As we peel back the layers of imposter syndrome, uncovering its underpinnings in workplace pressures, social comparison, and parental expectations, the conversation becomes more than just an analysis; it's a beacon for anyone feeling isolated by their doubts. By examining the symptoms and sharing strategies to overcome the relentless cycle of self-sabotage, this episode promises both relief and recognition for those grappling with the paradox of feeling unqualified amidst their achievements. Remember, admitting what we don't know can be the first step to conquering the imposter within, and together, we take that step on a journey towards self-discovery and healing.


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Unlock the hidden struggles and triumphs within the lives of our everyday heroes. Joining me again for part 2 of the interview is Kathryn Branca, a long-time advocate in the field of first responder mental health, who will help us navigate the complex psychological landscape these courageous individuals face. We delve into the often overlooked issues that lead first responders to seek therapy; it's not just the trauma that weighs heavy on their shoulders but the totality of their experiences, including personal relationships, substance misuse, financial strains, and the elusive quest for balance between duty and home.

In our conversational journey, we dissect the evolving practices of trauma-informed policing and the innovative co-response models that are reshaping mental health crisis intervention. Kathryn elaborates on the benefits of empathy-infused questions and the transformational impact of Crisis Intervention Team training on the mental fortitude of first responders. We also examine the grounding effects of yoga and other stress reduction techniques, while candidly discussing the limitations and ongoing need for robust support systems to safeguard against burnout and compassion fatigue.

As we wrap up, the spotlight turns to the proactive steps being taken to arm first responders with an arsenal of mental health tools, including meditation and peer support groups designed by their peers. We also parse the gender dynamics at play within these critical professions and articulate simple yet powerful dietary modifications that can elevate the well-being of those who stand guard over our communities.Kathryn's profound insights are an invitation to appreciate and bolster the psychological support network for these unsung heroes. This episode is packed with invaluable wisdom for anyone interested in the wellness of those who protect and serve.

To Contact her, visit her website: www.kathrynbranca.com
You can also email her: kathrynladc@gmail.com
Connect with her on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-branca


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