Stuff My Therapist Says

Makin Wellness

Join the award-winning Makin Wellness clinical team as they share quick therapy insights that can improve your life. We share research-backed tips, tools, and strategies you can start using today. Let’s heal, improve our mental health, and grow together. Follow Makin Wellness for even more free therapy content across your favorite socials @MakinWellness, and start online therapy today at makinwellness.com.

  1. Key Strategies For More Impactful Communication with Jason Cercone

    07/25/2023

    Key Strategies For More Impactful Communication with Jason Cercone

    Undoubtedly, at one point in your life, you've found yourself in the middle of a situation where lack of communication caused undue stress. Whether the communication gaps came from your side of the table, from others you were interacting with, or from everyone involved collectively, one thing was clear: poor communication led to insufficient outcomes. Effective communication is a powerful tool that can shape relationships and inspire positive change. It empowers individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and ideas with clarity and precision, which leads to more concise understanding and increased strength in our connections. But equally as strong, ineffective communication can lead to comments being taken out of context, relationships ending, and irreparable divisiveness.  We live in a world where texting, emailing, and social media have replaced having physical conversations in many cases - a societal shift that can damage relationships and lead to serious mental harm if the real meanings of those exchanges are misconstrued. In the Season 3 finale of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara welcomes our podcast's Executive Producer, Jason Cercone, back to the studio for a candid chat about the impact of communication...and the lack thereof. In this episode, you'll learn: What happens when communication falls apartWhy having actual conversations versus texting is imperative to problem solving and conflict resolutionThe role active listening plays in our ability to communicate effectivelyStrategies and exercises for improving communication with family, friends, colleagues, and clients ABOUT JASON: Jason Cercone is a podcast consultant, producer, and host with nearly a decade's worth of experience in the podcast arena. He helps business leaders and results-driven professionals simplify podcasting and bring purpose, clarity, and impact to their audio endeavors. He launched The Solo Podcaster's Mastermind to help coaches, consultants, and leaders improve their solo podcasting skills while elevating their brands at the same time. You can learn more about Jason on his website at jasoncercone.com Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    41 min
  2. The Power of Letting Go, Unclenching, and Surrendering with John Purkiss

    07/18/2023

    The Power of Letting Go, Unclenching, and Surrendering with John Purkiss

    If you go back in the archives of this podcast, you'll discover a truly insightful and inspirational conversation with the one and only John Purkiss, the author of The Power of Letting Go. John's bestselling book takes an in-depth look at what happens when you finally let go of past trauma and make real, intentional steps forward in your life. This vast improvement on your mental health and well-being is paramount to healing and becoming happy again, and letting go of all the negative emotions that surround our past mistakes and shortcomings serves as a critical step towards living the life you want to live. In Season 3 Episode 8 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara welcomes John back to the podcast to continue to the conversation! John recently released a guided journal that stemmed from the popularity of The Power of Letting Go called Learn to Let Go: A Guided Journal: Drop everything that's holding you back and today, he's going to tell you all about it while providing insight and wisdom to help you make strides to let go in your life. In this episode, you'll learn: How John's bestselling book led to his new guided journalThe impact of letting go of past emotions and traumaJohn's simple 3-step process for letting things goWhat it means to "unclench and surrender" and the pivotal role this action plays on your mental healthTo connect with John: Click here to pick up a copy of The Power of Letting Go Click here to pick up a copy of Learn to Let Go: A Guided Journal: Drop everything that's holding you back Connect with John on his website johnpurkiss.com! Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    39 min
  3. The Healing Powers of Nature with Doug Puchko

    07/11/2023

    The Healing Powers of Nature with Doug Puchko

    Undoubtedly, there's been a point in your life where you've looked out the window and said to yourself, "Why am I not outside right now?" You may even be saying it to yourself right now. 🙂 The great outdoors serve as a natural elixir that can play a significant role in maintaining and improving your mental health. Spending time outdoors and in nature can lead to stress reduction, an improved mood, enhanced cognitive function, an increase in physical activity, and new opportunities for connection with loved ones. Just the simple act of taking a walk on a nice day and absorbing the sunshine and fresh air can provide clarity for a clogged mind and a new outlook on life as a whole. In Season 3 Episode 7 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Makin Wellness Licensed Professional Counselor Doug Puchko returns to share the mic with Sara Makin to discuss the healing powers of nature. This conversation is jam-packed with valuable tips and insights about nature, including: Why we, as humans, can get so much value from natureWays to work more time outdoors into your lifeThe impact time spent away from nature can have on your mental healthHow to find the restorative benefits of nature no matter what your surroundings may be ABOUT DOUG: Doug worked as a financial advisor for 7 years where he helped individuals, couples, and families navigate the hardships of life and enabled them to gain better insight on how to best help themselves. Upon returning to the field of psychology and graduating with an MS in Counseling Psychology he has specialized in working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, people coping with stress, anxiety, and trauma, as well as couples counseling. He focuses on using psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, humanistic psychology, positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy with this clients in session. Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    22 min
  4. Mental Health & The Workplace with Meera Visishtha

    07/03/2023

    Mental Health & The Workplace with Meera Visishtha

    Have you ever stopped to consider the type of role mental health plays in a workplace environment? With all we know about emotional well-being and a person's mental state on their productivity, it's amazing that positive mental health hasn't received much attention until today.  And, in the case of some companies, it's still overlooked or undervalued. Prioritizing mental health in the workplace can lead to reduced stress levels, positive morale, and increased job satisfaction...which can, in turn, lead to better employee retention. Companies that have placed more emphasis on mental health for their employees by providing access to counseling services, promoting work-life balance, and creating a culture of open communication have seen significant improvements within their company culture, thus opening up new opportunities for growth and success. In Season 3 Episode 6 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is once again joined by Makin Wellness Master's Level Clinical Intern Meera Vasishtha for an in-depth look at mental health and the workplace. Throughout this conversation, you'll discover: Why companies are finally giving mental health the attention it deservesThe positive effects of a healthy, happy workforceWhy companies that don't emphasize mental health continue to struggle with morale, productivity, and retentionWhat you can do at your company to ensure mental health is prioritized ABOUT MEERA: My name is Meera Vasishtha and I am a Master’s Level Clinical Intern at Makin Wellness. I’m currently studying mental health counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. After attending New York University for undergrad, where I majored in communications, I spent most of my professional career in marketing and technology. I worked at Estee Lauder, Coty, and now at Amazon, in their Audible division. Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    14 min
  5. How Does AI & Evolving Technology Benefit Mental Health with Meera Visishtha

    07/03/2023

    How Does AI & Evolving Technology Benefit Mental Health with Meera Visishtha

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm. These days, it's nearly impossible to go online and not find an advertisement or someone talking about the benefits (or detriments, depending on who you listen to) of AI software. But how does AI and other evolving technologies impact the mental health world? Can it help a clinician with their efforts? Can it provide early detection (and even diagnosis) of mental health conditions by analyzing patterns in data such as speech, text, or facial impressions? Can it serve as a substitute for mental health treatment? As we move forward, AI will continue to get smarter and more intuitive and it's up to us to understand how this technology can aid our plight and, more importantly, how to use it responsibly. In Season 4 Episode 5 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is joined by Makin Wellness Master's Level Clinical Intern Meera Vasishtha for a chat about AI, ChatGPT, and other technologies that are changing the mental health world for the better. In this discussion, you'll discover: What AI is all about and how it benefits the mental health worldWhy it's important to gain an understanding of AI technologyHow you can utilize AI in your life, from a mental health standpoint and beyond ABOUT MEERA: My name is Meera Vasishtha and I am a Master’s Level Clinical Intern at Makin Wellness. I’m currently studying mental health counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. After attending New York University for undergrad, where I majored in communications, I spent most of my professional career in marketing and technology. I worked at Estee Lauder, Coty, and now at Amazon, in their Audible division. Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    19 min
  6. An Inside Look at Mental Health Support For Essential Workers with Michelle Wygant

    06/27/2023

    An Inside Look at Mental Health Support For Essential Workers with Michelle Wygant

    Supporting the mental health of essential workers plays a crucial role in ensuring their overall well-being and resilience. Workers such as healthcare professionals and emergency responders often face high levels of stress, burnout, and trauma due to the demanding nature of their work. Providing effective mental health support can help them cope with these types of challenges and prevent potential long-term negative consequences. Companies that invest in the support of mental health for their employees have experienced a positive ripple effect on their broader communities. When these workers receive the necessary support, they are better equipped to fulfill their roles effectively, safely, and in a much better frame of mind. In Season 3 Episode 4 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is joined by Makin Wellness Licensed Professional Counselor Michelle Wygant for a look at the impact mental health support has for essential workers. Throughout this conversation, Sara and Michelle discuss: The importance of supporting mental health initiatives for essential workers across the boardWhy this subject is getting the attention it deserves in today's workplace The impact ignoring mental health has on workersWhat your company can do to ensure they're prioritizing your worker's mental healthABOUT MICHELLE: Hello! My name is Michelle Wygant and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master’s degree in Counseling both from Slippery Rock University. I also hold an Education Specialist degree from Liberty University. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years both as a counselor and as a supervisor of various therapy programs. Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    20 min
  7. The Role of Mental Health In Family Life with Autumn Lovas

    06/20/2023

    The Role of Mental Health In Family Life with Autumn Lovas

    Mental health plays a critical role in the active dynamic of family life. It impacts the overall well-being and functioning of each family member, as well as the family unit as a whole. Good mental health promotes positive relationships, effective communication, and a supportive environment. When individuals in a family experience challenges regarding mental health, it can cause a significant strain on each individual and the collective group.  In Season 3 Episode 3 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin is joined by Licensed Professional Counselor Autumn Lovas for an in-depth conversation about the role of mental health in family life. Throughout this conversation, Sara and Autumn will discuss: Why mental health plays such a vital role in the family dynamicReal-life scenarios you can implement to ensure positive mental health is held in high priorityThe best time to start focusing on your children's mental healthThe detriments of ignoring crucial signs of mental health being overlookedABOUT AUTUMN: Hi! My name is Autumn Lovas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with Makin Wellness. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at St. Vincent College and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I started my career working with families of children on the Autism Spectrum before transitioning to higher education and working with college students as a mental health counselor.  Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    29 min
  8. An In-Depth Look at the Pros & Cons of Teletherapy with Doug Puchko

    06/13/2023

    An In-Depth Look at the Pros & Cons of Teletherapy with Doug Puchko

    Teletherapy, also known as online therapy or e-therapy, is a form of professional counseling that takes place remotely through digital communication tools including video calls, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It offers individuals the opportunity to access therapy services from the comfort of their home or any location where they can access the internet. This form of therapy has become highly utilized over the past several years with the COVID-19 pandemic playing a role in its rise in use and practicality. The convenience and flexibility teletherapy offers makes it an ideal way to focus on your mental health.  In Season 3 Episode 2 of Stuff My Therapist Says, Sara Makin welcomes Makin Wellness Licensed Professional Counselor Doug Puchko back to the podcast for an in-depth look at teletherapy. Throughout this conversation, Sara and Doug will share: The history of teletherapy and how it beganReasons why so many people have turned to teletherapy to heal and become happy againAdvantages of teletherapy vs. in-person therapySome of the disadvantages of teletherapy that you need to knowHow to take the first step to seeking help via the teletherapy platformABOUT DOUG: Doug worked as a financial advisor for 7 years where he helped individuals, couples, and families navigate the hardships of life and enabled them to gain better insight on how to best help themselves. Upon returning to the field of psychology and graduating with an MS in Counseling Psychology he has specialized in working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, people coping with stress, anxiety, and trauma, as well as couples counseling. He focuses on using psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, humanistic psychology, positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy with this clients in session. Discover More Mental Health Resources! Visit makinwellness.com today Take the First Step Towards Healing and Being Happy Again! Set up a therapy session with us at 833-274-HEAL Find Makin Wellness On The Following Platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok MUSIC CREDIT: Theme music for Stuff My Therapist Says - "Sweet Success" courtesy of purple-planet.com

    27 min
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Join the award-winning Makin Wellness clinical team as they share quick therapy insights that can improve your life. We share research-backed tips, tools, and strategies you can start using today. Let’s heal, improve our mental health, and grow together. Follow Makin Wellness for even more free therapy content across your favorite socials @MakinWellness, and start online therapy today at makinwellness.com.