The Affirming Minds Podcast

Shaina Siber, LCSW
  • 4.6 (16)
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Build your elite therapeutic toolkit learning through expert-led "pod-courses" and interviews. CEs available for Affirm Academy members.

  1. Why We Can’t Sleep: The Psychology Behind the Modern Sleep Crisis with Dr. Sarah Silverman, PhD

    5D AGO

    Why We Can’t Sleep: The Psychology Behind the Modern Sleep Crisis with Dr. Sarah Silverman, PhD

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG1B5maVjU/UTrIiHCa8kRtPVj3Cg2r4A/view?utm_content=DAG1B5maVjU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hed17b23331 --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: Sleep is one of the most fundamental human needs—and yet, so many of us struggle to get enough of it. In this episode, Shaina sits down with Dr. Sarah Silverman, a Stanford-trained sleep psychologist and insomnia expert, to unpack the modern sleep crisis and explore what’s really keeping us awake. Together, they explore the biological, psychological, and cultural factors that shape how—and how well—we sleep, from stress and technology use to our individual chronotypes and nervous system responses. Dr. Silverman shares practical, science-backed tools for improving sleep naturally, including insights from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), the gold-standard, drug-free treatment for chronic insomnia. This episode invites clinicians and listeners alike to rethink sleep beyond “sleep hygiene,” integrating compassion, nervous system awareness, and evidence-based strategies for better rest. --- Learning Objectives (CE Eligible): Identify the psychological and physiological factors that interfere with restorative sleep, including the impact of stress, anxiety, and modern lifestyle demands. Describe how chronotypes and circadian rhythms influence individual sleep patterns and the challenges posed by societal expectations. Apply at least one evidence-based intervention from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) to support clients struggling with sleep difficulties. --- About Our Guest: Dr. Sarah Silverman is a Stanford-trained sleep psychologist and insomnia expert passionate about helping women get to the root cause of their sleep struggles. Using a personalized, mindfulness-based approach, she empowers clients to improve sleep naturally and sustainably. Dr. Silverman is an expert in CBT-I, the first-line, drug-free treatment for chronic insomnia, and has been published in leading journals including Sleep Health: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation. She regularly provides digital media commentary on sleep health and advocates for greater access to science-backed sleep education—because quality sleep is not a luxury; it’s a human necessity. Connect with Dr. Silverman on Instagram @drsarahsleep and learn more about her work at drsarahsleep.com. --- Resources:  To find a local sleep psychologist or insomnia / CBT-I specialist near you, visit the Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine (SBSM) online directoryand search based on your state.  To find a local sleep medicine physician or sleep center near you, visit the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) sleep center directoryand search with your zip code.  --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    1h 20m
  2. High-Functioning Codependency Explained: Signs, Patterns, and Recovery with Alyssa Kushner, LCSW

    SEP 30

    High-Functioning Codependency Explained: Signs, Patterns, and Recovery with Alyssa Kushner, LCSW

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG0ZDQh5zI/Ri-sVLz-V9-USJN4HxEa1g/view?utm_content=DAG0ZDQh5zI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hcc4e682b1b --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, sits down with trauma therapist Alyssa Kushner, LCSW, to unpack the complexities of codependency, enmeshment, and parentification—especially as they show up in high-functioning clients. Alyssa shares her expertise in helping over-functioners, anxious perfectionists, and people-pleasers recognize the subtle ways self-abandonment, hypervigilance, and external validation shape their identities. She explores how cultural and systemic messages reinforce patterns of self-sacrifice and people-pleasing, and offers evidence-informed strategies to help clients build boundaries, self-compassion, and autonomy. Listeners will gain insight into how nervous system healing, EMDR, somatic approaches, mindfulness, and attachment theory can support recovery from codependency and create more secure, balanced, and fulfilling relationships. --- Learning Objectives (CE Eligible): Define and differentiate codependency, enmeshment, and parentification, and describe how these dynamics intersect in high-functioning clients Identify common clinical presentations of codependent patterns (e.g., over-extending, self-abandonment, hypervigilance) and analyze how external validation and worth-based identity reinforce them Apply evidence-informed strategies to help clients develop boundaries, self-compassion, and autonomy, while considering the influence of cultural and systemic factors --- About Our Guest: Alyssa Kushner, LCSW, is a trauma therapist and the owner of AK Psychotherapy, serving clients in NYC, DC, NJ, and MD. She works primarily with adults navigating the impact of relational and complex trauma, facilitates women’s support groups, and offers EMDR intensives for clients who feel “stuck” despite having insight. --- Resources:  Website: ak-psychotherapy.com Instagram: @alyssaktherapy --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    1h 8m
  3. Eating Disorders in Midlife: Myths, Stigma, and Effective Treatment Approaches with Heidi J Dalzell, PsyD

    SEP 23

    Eating Disorders in Midlife: Myths, Stigma, and Effective Treatment Approaches with Heidi J Dalzell, PsyD

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGzvkB6Nic/VS0qO6U5JW7lweRl_wWMWQ/view?utm_content=DAGzvkB6Nic&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hafae8fbf9e --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: Eating disorders don’t just affect teens. Midlife is a critical yet often invisible period where disordered eating can emerge, relapse, or persist — complicated by ageism, diet culture, and medical stigma. In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber sits down with Heidi J. Dalzell, PsyD, a psychologist, author, and coach with over 30 years of experience in eating disorders treatment. Together, they unpack the myths, stigma, and evidence-based strategies for supporting adults navigating eating disorders in midlife. Dr. Dalzell brings both professional expertise and lived experience as a clinician in recovery, offering a deeply compassionate perspective. She is the author of A Clinician’s Guide to Gender Identity and Body Image and has a forthcoming book with Routledge — A Definitive Guide to Midlife Eating Disorders — releasing January 2026. --- Learning Objectives (CE Eligible): Identify unique risk factors, clinical presentations, and diagnostic considerations for eating disorders emerging or persisting in midlife Describe how sociocultural, developmental, and biological changes (e.g., menopause, aging, medical comorbidities) impact body image concerns in adults Apply at least one evidence-based therapeutic strategy for addressing body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in midlife clients Discuss ethical and scope-of-practice considerations when treating eating disorders in midlife, including collaboration with medical providers --- About Our Guest: Heidi J Dalzell, PsyD is a psychologist, author and coach specializing in midlife eating disorders, spirituality and trauma. She has over 30 years’ experience in the field of eating disorders and has been widely quoted in various outlets and on podcasts, speaking to the need for developmentally appropriate, sensitive care. She is in recovery from an eating disorder. Heidi is the author of two books on eating disorders, one exploring gender identity and the newest in press which is a definitive guide to midlife eating disorders. The latter will be released by Routledge in January, 2026. --- Resources:  Talk to Grow: https://www.talktogrow.com/ Soulful Connections Coaching: https://www.soulfulconnectionscoaching.com/ A Clinician’s Guide to Gender Identity and Body Image (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Clinicians-Guide-Gender-Identity-Image/dp/1785928309 --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    1h 23m
  4. Holistic Mental Health: Integrating Yoga, Breathwork, and Sound Healing Into Therapy with LeNaya Smith Crawford, LMFT

    SEP 16

    Holistic Mental Health: Integrating Yoga, Breathwork, and Sound Healing Into Therapy with LeNaya Smith Crawford, LMFT

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGzD0qlgh0/uAvTZlSD63Lxt0QtINmYgQ/view?utm_content=DAGzD0qlgh0&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h078b5e6f5f --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: In this CE-eligible episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber sits down with LeNaya Smith Crawford, The Holistic Therapist™, to explore how holistic and integrative practices can transform both client care and therapist well-being. From yoga and breathwork to sound healing and nervous system regulation, LeNaya shares how these embodied practices can ethically and effectively complement traditional psychotherapy. She also highlights the importance of scope of practice, neuroscience research, and her own lived journey of weaving together the five layers of holistic healing: physical, energetic, emotional/mental, spiritual, and communal. Whether you’re a therapist curious about adding somatic practices to your work, or simply interested in how holistic approaches can support healing, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance. --- Learning Objectives (CE Eligible): Define holistic mental health and identify at least two foundational principles that differentiate holistic therapeutic approaches from traditional clinical models. Identify at least one neuroscience or evidence-informed framework that supports the use of somatic or sensory tools in clinical practice. Discuss at least one ethical or scope-of-practice consideration when incorporating mind-body modalities into psychotherapy. --- About Our Guest: LeNaya Smith Crawford, The Holistic Therapist™, is a Licensed Therapist, Holistic Mental Health Educator, Business Mentor, International Teacher, and Wellness CEO. With over a decade of experience, she helps therapists, healers, and leaders reclaim their wholeness, integrate holistic practices into their work, and build aligned, sustainable businesses rooted in care and purpose. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Spelman College and her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy, specializing in trauma and spiritual integration. She is also an advanced certified yoga, breathwork, and meditation teacher, and a sound healer. Her passion for this work was born from her own healing journey—where embracing the five layers of self led to deep transformation. Her approach blends clinical expertise with ancestral, somatic, spiritual, and holistic healing practices. At the heart of her work is a deep belief that we are all worthy of the time it takes to nourish our minds, bodies, and souls—and of living in our heart’s deepest desires. LeNaya is the creator of The Holistic Therapist™ Academy, and her work has been featured in The New York Times, Essence, The Huffington Post, Healthline, and on Bravo. She is the CEO and founder of LSC Wellness, Kaleidoscope Therapy and Holistic Wellness, and the co-founder of Seviin Yoga Studio + Yoga School in Atlanta. --- Resources:  Join my newsletter: lenaya-crawford.mykajabi.com/newsletter Learn more about my work and offerings: www.lenayasmithcrawford.com FREE Live Intensive – Become a Holistic Therapist (Oct 18 & 25): lenaya-crawford.mykajabi.com/become-a-holistic-therapist-live-intensive-oct-25 Holistic Therapist Academy (6-month certification program): lenaya-crawford.mykajabi.com/holistic-therapist-academy-info-session --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    1h 3m
  5. Narrative Therapy for Self-Esteem: Rewriting Your Story with Phil Lane, LCSW

    SEP 9

    Narrative Therapy for Self-Esteem: Rewriting Your Story with Phil Lane, LCSW

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGyTbOZciw/cZaS-Bpt1Xh-wcp1_oTfEg/view?utm_content=DAGyTbOZciw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h01cebdf52f --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, I sit down with Phil Lane, LCSW—psychotherapist, author, and passionate advocate for the power of storytelling in healing. Phil brings a humanistic perspective to his work, aiming to normalize and de-stigmatize the challenges so many of us face, from anxiety and panic to struggles with self-esteem. Phil is the author of Understanding and Coping with Illness Anxiety, Overcoming Panic and Panic Attacks, and The Narrative Therapy Workbook for Self-Esteem (https://www.newharbinger.com/9781648485312/the-narrative-therapy-workbook-for-self-esteem/?srsltid=AfmBOooPeBwT0rZSmbSN8ywdpbcmGiHCUtHMCYnwmwPjXHJ558JYcHA8). Drawing from his background in education and clinical practice, Phil explains how narrative therapy can help clients shift problem-saturated stories, uncover missing story parts, and re-author more compassionate, authentic versions of their lives. Phil also shares personal reflections, the inspiration behind his books, and how his own love of story continues to inform both his clinical practice and his writing. --- Topics Covered: What narrative therapy is and why storytelling matters in mental health How dominant narratives and problem saturation shape self-esteem Practical tools like externalizing problems, letter-writing, and identifying unique outcomes Ways therapists can integrate narrative practices alongside other modalities --- About Our Guest: Phil Lane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice. He writes and practices from a humanistic point of view, with a commitment to making therapy concepts accessible and reducing stigma around mental health. He lives in central New Jersey with his family, where he enjoys gardening, reading, writing, watching baseball, and model railroading. --- Resources:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapist_phil Website: https://phil-lane.com The Narrative Therapy Workbook for Self-Esteem: https://www.newharbinger.com/9781648485312/the-narrative-therapy-workbook-for-self-esteem/?srsltid=AfmBOooPeBwT0rZSmbSN8ywdpbcmGiHCUtHMCYnwmwPjXHJ558JYcHA8 --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    51 min
  6. Cult Recovery Therapy: Healing, Reintegration, and Trauma-Informed Approaches with Alisha Powell, LCSW, PhD

    SEP 2

    Cult Recovery Therapy: Healing, Reintegration, and Trauma-Informed Approaches with Alisha Powell, LCSW, PhD

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGxsBoMPwc/GYFBdNjCiauOlhZZanaJzQ/view?utm_content=DAGxsBoMPwc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hee0efa1aab --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: Cults have long been a source of fascination, with high-profile cases like Jonestown, Waco, and NXIVM dominating headlines and documentaries. But beyond the sensational stories, cults and high-control groups are far more prevalent — and often much harder to identify — than most people realize. In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber is joined by Dr. Alisha Powell, PhD, LCSW, a psychotherapist specializing in racial trauma and religiously abusive organizations/cults. Together, they explore the psychological, emotional, and behavioral impacts of cult involvement, the clinical challenges survivors face in leaving, and trauma-informed therapeutic approaches that support healing, reintegration, and rebuilding identity. Whether you’re a therapist looking to expand your toolkit or someone interested in understanding the lived experience of cult recovery, this conversation offers insights, compassion, and practical strategies. --- Topics Covered: The psychological, emotional, and behavioral dynamics of cult involvement Why the term “cult” is sociological and colloquial — and why groups rarely identify themselves this way The unique vulnerabilities that make people susceptible to cult recruitment Long-term impacts on identity development, grief, and trust Two major clinical challenges in cult recovery: trauma/attachment wounds and reintegration into society Trauma-informed, evidence-based therapeutic approaches — including narrative therapy — that support survivors in reclaiming autonomy and rebuilding trust --- About Our Guest: Dr. Alisha Powell, PhD, LCSW, is a psychotherapist specializing in mental health and couples therapy, with a focus on racial trauma and religiously abusive organizations/cults. Her expertise has been featured in Bustle, Yahoo Lifestyle, Fast Company, Parade, Healthline, Romper, Thrive Global, MedTravelers, and Up Journey. She currently practices privately with individuals and couples. --- Resources:  Connect with Dr. Powell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisha-powell-phd-lcsw-55014742/ Join her clinician support community, The Pivoted Path, on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThePivotedPath — a supportive space for clinicians exploring flexible and fulfilling career paths. --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    56 min
  7. Hoarding Disorder: Effects on Families, Loved Ones, and Ways to Help with Ceci Garrett, MSW, LICSW

    AUG 26

    Hoarding Disorder: Effects on Families, Loved Ones, and Ways to Help with Ceci Garrett, MSW, LICSW

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGxFOJRYyA/qAKAfQlb8S348LMYLIIFIA/view?utm_content=DAGxFOJRYyA&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h4a6eeac32e --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: Hoarding disorder doesn’t just affect the individual—it ripples through families & relationships. In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber, LCSW, speaks with Cecilia “Ceci” Garrett, MSW, LICSW, a clinician and national speaker specializing in hoarding disorder, anxiety, and trauma. Together, they explore how hoarding behaviors develop, the difference between clutter, collecting, and hoarding, and why forced cleanouts often cause more harm than good. Listeners will gain insight into the emotional toll on family members, common misconceptions among clinicians, and practical strategies for supporting loved ones while maintaining healthy boundaries. Whether you are a mental health professional, a family member, or simply curious about this often-misunderstood condition, this conversation sheds light on compassionate, evidence-based approaches to hoarding disorder. --- Topics Covered: How to distinguish clutter, collecting, and hoarding Why hoarding disorder is ego-syntonic and how that impacts treatment Common misconceptions among clinicians and the public The emotional and relational toll on families and loved ones Why forced cleanouts don’t work and what harm reduction looks like Practical steps clinicians and families can take to set boundaries with compassion Resources and support networks for individuals and families navigating hoarding --- About Our Guest: Cecilia “Ceci” Garrett, MSW, LICSW, specializes in treating hoarding disorder, anxiety, and trauma. Her unique blend of personal lived experience and professional expertise informs her clinical practice, advocacy, and training efforts. Ceci is passionate about destigmatizing hoarding disorder and advancing mental health treatment as a critical part of addressing hoarding behaviors. She has presented nationally, contributed to peer-reviewed publications, and developed resources for families and clinicians. --- Resources:  International OCD Foundation – Hoarding Disorder Resources Children of Hoarders Network Ceci Garrett’s Free Workbook: https://lighteningtheloadcounseling.com/free-workbook/ Connect with Ceci Garrett: https://lighteningtheloadcounseling.com/ --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

    1h 16m
  8. Financial Anxiety and Trauma in Therapy: How to Help Clients Repair Their Relationship with Money with Michelle Johnston, MA, Registered Psychologist

    AUG 19

    Financial Anxiety and Trauma in Therapy: How to Help Clients Repair Their Relationship with Money with Michelle Johnston, MA, Registered Psychologist

    Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGwdscmxRc/eMAWaVkmEJT-TsbziTbAYQ/view?utm_content=DAGwdscmxRc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h973397ed37 --- This Episode is Sponsored by Jane This episode is proudly sponsored by Jane, the practice management software that simplifies scheduling, charting, billing, and running your therapy business – all in one place. Use code AFFIRM1MO to receive a 1-month grace period when you sign up: 🔗 https://jane.app --- Episode Summary: Money is woven into nearly every part of life, yet conversations about financial stress are often missing from therapy. In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber sits down with Michelle Johnston, MA, Registered Psychologist, to unpack the ways financial anxiety and trauma impact mental health and what therapists can do to help. --- Topics Covered: Common behavioral and emotional patterns of financial anxiety (avoidance, overspending, fear-based decision-making). How early money messages and financial trauma shape adult beliefs, emotions, and relationships. Practical therapeutic strategies to reduce financial stress and support values-aligned decision-making. Why reflecting on our own money stories is vital for clinicians who want to address financial anxiety in a culturally responsive way. --- About Our Guest: Michelle Johnston is a registered psychologist and the founder of Take Care Therapy Co. in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in helping individuals navigate financial stress, work/life balance, personal growth, and overall well-being. Michelle works with youth, adults, and couples, integrating evidence-based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). She is also Trauma of Money™ certified and brings extensive training in trauma, anxiety, and relational health to her practice. Learn more at:  Take Care Therapy Co.: https://www.takecaretherapy.ca/ Instagram: @takecaretherapy --- Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ TikTok: @affirm_mental_health

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