The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

Curt Widhalm, LMFT and Katie Vernoy, LMFT
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The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide: Where Therapists Live, Breathe, and Practice as Human Beings It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when clinicians must develop a personal brand to market their private practices, and are connecting over social media, engaging in social activism, pushing back against mental health stigma, and facing a whole new style of entrepreneurship. To support you as a whole person, a business owner, and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age.

  1. Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns

    1D AGO

    Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns

    Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns Curt and Katie chat about the limitations of performative awareness campaigns and the need for action-oriented advocacy. Inspired by the article Stop Raising Awareness Already by Ann Christiano and Annie Niemand, they critique viral campaigns like Kony 2012 and the CDC’s zombie apocalypse campaign, highlighting the importance of targeting the right audiences, crafting compelling messages, and developing a theory of change.  Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about the limitations of awareness campaigns Curt and Katie talk about what to do instead of focusing precious time, energy, and resources on advocacy that is solely about awareness. We look at what has worked in the past and how to implement that now. Why Awareness Alone Isn’t Enough Performative awareness (social media posts, profile filters) often doesn’t lead to real change. Examples of failed awareness campaigns: Kony 2012: Viral but lacked sustainable action. CDC’s zombie apocalypse: Popular but ineffective at promoting emergency preparedness. HPV vaccine campaign: Faced backlash due to misinterpretation of its message. Some awareness efforts even create harmful counter-movements (e.g., “All Lives Matter” in response to BLM). The Importance of Targeted Advocacy Broad awareness campaigns often miss key decision-makers—advocacy should focus on specific audiences. Examples of effective advocacy efforts: Lobbying for minors' rights to amend therapy records. Medicare reform efforts for mental health providers. California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) educating legislators about MFTs. Developing a Theory of Change Advocacy needs clear goals and strategic planning. The story of Rosa Parks demonstrates effective timing and targeting in advocacy. Successful campaigns require repetition, patience, and clear calls to action. Practical Steps for Effective Advocacy: ·      Move beyond awareness—advocate for policy changes, funding, and direct action. ·      Target specific audiences (lawmakers, healthcare providers, educators). ·      Craft messages that resonate—ensure they lead to measurable change. ·      Develop a theory of change—plan advocacy efforts with long-term impact in mind. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    30 min
  2. MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith

    MAR 3

    MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith

    MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith Curt and Katie chat with Roger Smith, Chief Advocacy Officer and General Counsel for American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, about the challenges and progress in licensure portability for Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs). He explains why AAMFT opted for an endorsement model over interstate compacts, the success of the Access MFTs initiative, and what’s next for portability efforts in 2025. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Roger Smith about LMFT License Portability As more and more therapy is happening online, therapists have an opportunity to work with clients from all over the world. In the United States, there have been efforts by social workers, mental health counselors, and psychologists to create inter-state compacts to help regulate these therapists (and provide opportunities to deliver care legally in other states). Marriage and Family Therapists have been left behind and are now seeking a different path (reciprocity or portability) due to the unique characteristics of the LMFT profession. We reached out to Roger Smith of AAMFT to help us understand why this decision was made as well as what it means for MFTs. Why AAMFT Chose the Endorsement Model Over Compacts ·      Interstate compacts were considered but ultimately deemed too costly and unsustainable. ·      Large states like California and New York have not adopted ANY healthcare compacts, limiting effectiveness. ·      Endorsement model: Allows MFTs to practice in other states if they hold an unencumbered license—without having to meet initial requirements again. Success of the "Access MFTs" Model ·      In 2024, 7 out of 10 targeted states passed the Access MFTs model law. ·      States that adopted the model include Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Tennessee, and Virginia. ·      Efforts continue in Kentucky and North Carolina for 2025. Future of MFT Portability & Barriers California is not pursuing portability legislation but is working with CAMFT on national exam advocacy. Exam requirements can be a barrier to full portability. Expansion plans focus on pro-telehealth states and underserved regions. Member Interest & Cost Considerations for MFTs seeking to practice across state lines A 2022 AAMFT survey showed strong member interest in portability, especially among younger therapists. Costs are a factor—both the Access MFTs model and interstate compacts involve financial considerations for therapists. National Licensure for therapists: Why It’s Not an Option Licensure is a state-level issue, and federal intervention is unlikely. A national exam or license would face constitutional challenges and resistance from state regulatory boards. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    36 min
  3. The Advances in Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health: An interview with Dr. Alyssa Dietz

    FEB 24

    The Advances in Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health: An interview with Dr. Alyssa Dietz

    The Advances in Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health: An interview with Dr. Alyssa Dietz Curt and Katie chat with Dr. Alyssa Dietz, a clinical psychologist and digital mental health expert, about the evolving role of AI in therapy. Dr. Dietz discusses how AI can enhance therapy by delivering evidence-based care, particularly in structured approaches like CBT, while acknowledging its limitations with complex, multi-diagnosis cases. She emphasizes the need for collaboration between therapists and AI developers to ensure ethical, patient-centered innovation in digital mental health. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Dr. Alyssa Dietz about Advances in AI for Therapy Artificial Intelligence has already come for mental healthcare. The question is, what should therapists be doing about it? We dig into what AI therapy looks like from the inside, from a clinician’s perspective. AI’s Growing Role in Therapy AI can enhance therapy but won’t replace human therapists soon. AI is particularly effective in skills-based therapies like CBT. AI currently struggles with complex diagnoses and comorbidities. The most active users of digital mental health tools are 50-60 years old, surprising many industry experts. How AI is Changing the Therapist’s Role AI can automate administrative tasks and support therapists in data-driven decision-making. Although tech and insurance folks say we can use AI to work at the "top of our license," this approach could lead to therapist burnout. Clinicians should work alongside AI developers to ensure ethical, patient-centered care. AI’s judgment and decision-making remain limited, requiring human oversight. Evaluating AI’s Effectiveness & Ethical Considerations The tension between innovation, regulation, and evaluation in AI-driven therapy. Importance of clear safety protocols and escalation (emergency) measures for client care. AI must be rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness. Understanding how AI products are trained and evaluated is critical for therapists before incorporating these clinical tools into your practice. AI and Complex Diagnoses Current AI models struggle to address comorbidities effectively. Need for personalization and context-driven interventions. Future AI tools must move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. How Therapists Can Adapt to AI in Mental Health Educate yourself on AI’s capabilities and limitations. Stay informed through online courses, conferences, and tech-focused therapist groups. Engage with organizations like the Digital Medicine Society to understand responsible AI use. Connect with the "Therapists in Tech" Slack group to network with others in the space. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    43 min
  4. Exploring Systemic Trauma and Relational Privilege with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples: An interview with Akilah Riley-Richardson. MSW, CCTP

    FEB 17

    Exploring Systemic Trauma and Relational Privilege with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples: An interview with Akilah Riley-Richardson. MSW, CCTP

    Exploring Systemic Trauma and Relational Privilege with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples: An interview with Akilah Riley-Richardson Curt and Katie chat with Akilah Riley Richardson, MSW about the challenges therapists face when working with BIPOC and LGBTQI couples. Akilah discusses the impact of systemic trauma, how it affects relationships, and the importance of creating therapeutic models tailored to marginalized communities. She introduces The PRIDE Model for therapy and The BIOME Stance for therapists, offering actionable strategies for inclusive, trauma-informed care. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Akilah Riley-Richardson about what therapists get wrong when working with BIPOC and LGBTQI couples Too often, couples counselors take traditional models and make slight tweaks for couples from marginalized backgrounds, with little success. Akilah Riley-Richardson has developed a stance and a new model to help support therapists in doing more effective work with these couples.   Understanding Systemic Trauma in Therapy Defining systemic trauma: Chronic, unpredictable, and disenfranchised trauma caused by systemic forces (education, legal, and healthcare systems). Examples of systemic trauma: Microaggressions, mispronounced names, assumptions about authority roles, and misgendering. Effects on individuals and relationships: Reduced sense of safety, rejection sensitivity, emotional disconnect, and difficulty setting boundaries. Challenges in Therapy with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples Common therapist mistakes: Ignoring systemic realities and the impact of privilege. Adapting existing models without acknowledging their white, cishet origins. Failing to create trauma-informed, inclusive frameworks. Importance of relational privilege: Self-acceptance, social acceptance, and feeling protected in relationships. The PRIDE Model & The BIOME Stance from Akilah Riley-Richardson PRIDE Model for Therapy: Relational curiosity: Actively exploring the client's lived experiences. Setting intentions: Creating space for safety and vulnerability. Trauma work: Addressing systemic trauma's long-term impact on relationships. BIOME Stance for Therapists: Bravery: Facing discomfort in recognizing privilege. Intimacy: Fostering deep emotional connections. Openness: Being receptive to client experiences. Micro-liberatory movements: Small but impactful actions toward social justice. Epistemic embracing: Validating client knowledge and lived experiences. How Therapists Can Engage Clients in Systemic Trauma Work Transparency in therapy: Clearly communicating the goal of liberation. Allowing resistance: Accepting client pushback as an assertion of power. Embracing uncertainty: Being comfortable with not having all the answers. Participating in decolonization conversations: Learning through community engagement and allyship. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    38 min
  5. How Therapists Can Truly Help After a Disaster

    FEB 10

    How Therapists Can Truly Help After a Disaster

    How Therapists Can Truly Help After a Disaster Curt and Katie chat about the impact of the recent Los Angeles wild fires on therapists, their clients, and communities. We explore the importance of self-assessment, responsible crisis response, and balancing personal care with providing support. From donating (and marketing) services ethically to understanding trauma timelines, Curt and Katie provide practical advice for therapists navigating community-wide disasters. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk through how therapists can help during and after crises Curt and Katie live in Los Angeles, which was recently ravaged by wild fires. We decided it would be important to reflect on our experience and provide support to other therapists seeking ways they may be able to help their own communities. Self-Assessment and Prioritizing Personal Care during a Natural Disaster or Community Crisis Therapists are encouraged to assess their capacity to provide support, ensuring they do not overextend themselves during a crisis. Curt emphasizes radical acceptance and forgiveness for cancellations or temporary service disruptions caused by disasters. Katie highlights the importance of therapists taking care of themselves before offering services, noting the potential for long-term impacts on both providers and clients. How to Market Therapy during a crisis without feeling like an ambulance chaser Curt and Katie stress the importance of donating services ethically, avoiding lead generation tactics or branding during a crisis. They discuss reviewing scheduled marketing campaigns to ensure sensitivity to the current situation. Therapists are encouraged to work with established organizations (like the Red Cross) to maximize the impact of their efforts. Curt and Katie discuss the risks of using disasters to build personal brands and stress focusing solely on service and support. They suggest volunteering with experienced organizations to avoid complications and maximize resources for those in need. Recognizing Individual Needs and Trauma Timelines for disaster survivors Not all clients experience or process trauma in the same way; therapists must tailor their support to individual needs and stages of impact. Curt shares insights from his experience supporting clients after the Boston Marathon bombing, emphasizing the importance of addressing varying levels of trauma severity. Katie highlights the need for long-term care systems to address ongoing trauma responses. How Therapists can balance Caretaking and Personal Needs during a disaster Curt shares his experience of being overwhelmed by personal messages and work demands during the crisis. Katie emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and giving oneself permission to focus on personal care. Therapists are reminded that they are part of the crisis too and should ensure they meet their own needs before taking on the caretaker role. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    33 min
  6. Helping Parents Become What They Needed as a Child: An interview with Bryana Kappadakunnel, LMFT

    FEB 3

    Helping Parents Become What They Needed as a Child: An interview with Bryana Kappadakunnel, LMFT

    Helping Parents Become What They Needed as a Child: An interview with Bryana Kappadakunnel, LMFT Curt and Katie chat with Bryana Kappakunnel, LMFT about conscious parenting, discussing how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healing personal triggers can help parents foster healthier and more connected relationships with their children. With a background in infant and early childhood mental health and her upcoming book Parent Yourself First, Bryana offers valuable insights for therapists and parents alike. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Bryana Kappadakunnel about Conscious Parenting We invited friend of the show, Bryana Kappadakunnel, LMFT to talk about her work, including her new book, Parent Yourself First.   What is Conscious Parenting? Conscious parenting goes beyond positive parenting by prioritizing self-awareness, personal healing, and understanding the root causes of emotional triggers. Bryana explains how addressing parents’ unresolved issues can create a healthier environment for children, often alleviating behavioral challenges. She highlights the importance of building authentic connections with children and fostering emotional safety through open communication and modeling accountability. Common Pushback and Misconceptions for Conscious Parenting Bryana addresses resistance from parents who view traditional parenting as the norm or feel threatened by relational approaches. She clarifies that conscious parenting is not permissive but a balanced, authoritative style that combines high warmth, nurturance, structure, and boundaries. Bryana emphasizes the need to manage stress and prevent burnout by helping parents regulate their own emotions before addressing their children’s behavior. How to Help Parents Navigate Challenging Parenting Scenarios When parents feel disrespected by their children, Bryana advises focusing on their own emotional reactions and understanding the child’s behavior as a form of communication. She stresses the importance of setting consistent boundaries while staying attuned to the child’s perspective. Bryana shares her own practice of apologizing to her children when she makes mistakes, modeling accountability and respect in the parent-child relationship. How Conscious Parenting Helps Kids During the pandemic, Bryana shifted her focus to working with parents directly, leading to significant improvements in family dynamics in shorter timeframes. Her work underscores the importance of addressing systemic and relational patterns within families rather than focusing solely on child behavior. Bryana highlights the benefits of her approach, including better communication, a deeper sense of connection, and raising compassionate, empathetic, and confident children. Bryana’s Online Presence and Upcoming Book Bryana creates content tailored to the needs of parents and her clients, sharing bite-sized videos that inspire reflection and change. Bryana talks about her decisions on what to post as a licensed therapist with a big following on social media platforms She discusses her book, Parent Yourself First, which helps parents heal their own wounds to raise resilient and empathetic children. The book focuses on empowering parents to become the caregivers they wished they had, fostering healthier and more connected family systems. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    41 min
  7. Identifying the Graduate Program for the Career You Want – Special Series Becoming a Therapist: An interview with Eden Lathem

    JAN 30

    Identifying the Graduate Program for the Career You Want – Special Series Becoming a Therapist: An interview with Eden Lathem

    Identifying the Graduate Program for the Career You Want – Special Series Becoming a Therapist: An interview with Eden Lathem In this new series, Curt and Katie interview graduate students and will follow them on their journey to becoming a therapist. Our final interview is with Eden Lathem, a second-year Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) student at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee. Eden shares her path from working in prison education and with individuals with disabilities to finding her passion for systemic thinking and family therapy. She candidly discusses the challenges of grad school, balancing internships, and navigating financial constraints while exploring her future career aspirations. She also talks through how she did due diligence to find the “right” graduate program. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we meet Eden Lathem, an aspiring therapist We continue our new series on becoming a therapist, with Eden Lathem, who is a first career professional who has done a lot of due diligence and strategic thinking to plan her trajectory as a therapist and professional.   Eden’s Background and Path to Therapy Eden shares how her experiences in prison education and working with individuals with disabilities shaped her desire to support families and underserved populations. Initially hesitant about becoming a therapist, Eden found her passion for MFT through her commitment to systemic thinking and helping others. She highlights the unique role of MFT in addressing the needs of families with disabled members, a demographic often overlooked. Grad School Expectations vs. Reality Eden discusses her experience in an in-person, cohort-style program that meets weekly. She was surprised by the program’s emphasis on self-awareness and the “self of the therapist” work, which has become a significant focus. While expecting more hands-on training, she found the program leaned heavily on didactic learning with limited opportunities for shadowing and hands-on therapy practice. Balancing Dual Internships and Financial Challenges Eden balances two internships: a paid position at a family therapy center and an unpaid internship, navigating the complexities of these experiences. She shares the financial struggles of grad school, reflecting on the challenges of unpaid internships and the economic realities of the helping professions. Eden highlights the need for strategic financial planning and managing responsibilities while pursuing a meaningful career. Advice for Prospective Therapy Students Eden encourages prospective students to thoroughly research programs by talking to professors and alumni. She stresses the importance of aligning program values with personal goals and considering the broader implications of the chosen education. Her advice emphasizes due diligence in selecting a program that supports future career aspirations. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    28 min
  8. Becoming a Therapist as a First Generation Immigrant – Special Series Becoming a Therapist: An interview with Marvin Vasquez

    JAN 27

    Becoming a Therapist as a First Generation Immigrant – Special Series Becoming a Therapist: An interview with Marvin Vasquez

    Becoming a Therapist as a First Generation Immigrant – Special Series Becoming a Therapist: An interview with Marvin Vasquez In this new series, Curt and Katie interview graduate students and will follow them on their journey to becoming a therapist. Our third interview is with Marvin Vasquez, a first-year Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) student at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), which is an all in-person program. Marvin shares his journey into therapy, shaped by his immigrant background and personal struggles, as well as his passion for serving underserved communities. He opens up about the unexpected sense of community within his cohort, the financial challenges of grad school, and his concerns about the future of therapy in an increasingly technological world. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we meet Marvin Vasquez, an aspiring therapist We continue our new series on becoming a therapist, with Marvin Vasquez.   Marvin’s Background and Motivation for Becoming a Therapist Marvin reflects on his upbringing in a large immigrant family and how his experiences inspired his desire to help others. He explains how his personal struggles and a passion for underserved communities led him to pursue a career in therapy. His goal is to use his background and understanding to make therapy more accessible and impactful for marginalized groups. The First Semester of his MFT Program: Expectations vs. Reality Marvin discusses his expectations of a theory-heavy and clinical program, contrasting it with the surprising sense of community within his cohort. He highlights the supportive environment, where vulnerability and shared resilience among students foster personal and professional growth. Marvin appreciates the program’s emphasis on creating a safe space for learning and self-awareness. Community and Support in an In-Person Therapy Grad School Marvin contrasts his undergrad experience, which lacked connection, with his current program's close-knit and empathetic cohort. The program’s in-person setup has created a unique intensity and camaraderie among students, helping Marvin grow as both a person and a therapist. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in building strong connections within the cohort. Navigating Family Dynamics and Self-Awareness Marvin shares how the program has deepened his empathy for his parents, particularly their struggles as first-generation immigrants. He reflects on how their survival strategies shaped his upbringing and his understanding of family dynamics. The program has helped Marvin foster greater authenticity and emotional awareness in both his personal and professional life. Balancing Academics, Work, and Relationships during his MFT Masters Program Marvin explains the challenges of balancing his academic workload, job responsibilities, and personal relationships. He discusses the financial stress of grad school, including student loans, and the sacrifices involved in pursuing his degree. Marvin acknowledges the importance of maintaining connections with friends and family to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Financial Concerns and Career Aspirations as an MFT Marvin shares his worries about student debt and the economic realities of being a therapist. He expresses gratitude for his supportive employer, who provides flexibility to balance work and school. Marvin is exploring career options, including the importance of finding fieldwork opportunities that align with his values and schedule. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

    42 min
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The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide: Where Therapists Live, Breathe, and Practice as Human Beings It’s time to reimagine therapy and what it means to be a therapist. We are human beings who can now present ourselves as whole people, with authenticity, purpose, and connection. Especially now, when clinicians must develop a personal brand to market their private practices, and are connecting over social media, engaging in social activism, pushing back against mental health stigma, and facing a whole new style of entrepreneurship. To support you as a whole person, a business owner, and a therapist, your hosts, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk about how to approach the role of therapist in the modern age.

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