Therapists' Take with Carrie and Josh

Family Solutions Media

Have you ever wondered what therapists talk about with each other behind closed doors? Carrie and Josh are two mental health professionals with nearly four decades of experience between the two of them; and they are opening the door to welcome you in as they discuss and critically think through mental health, relational health, recovery issues as well as the therapeutic processes involved. You'll find these episodes to be informative, compassionate, endearing, and at times, comical. Tune in to watch the LIVE broadcasts of these episodes on Facebook and YouTube.

  1. Episode 63: On Escaping Domestic Abuse | Featuring: Brian Putnam, Family Law Attorney

    AUG 25

    Episode 63: On Escaping Domestic Abuse | Featuring: Brian Putnam, Family Law Attorney

    In this compelling episode of Therapists’ Take, we sit down with family law attorney and author Brian Putnam to unpack the complex and often misunderstood reality of domestic abuse. Drawing on decades of legal experience and personal insight, Brian shares what it truly takes to break free from abuse—and the critical steps toward safety, justice, and healing. ------------ 00:00 - Hi, Carrie! (Intro) 01:38 - Guest: Brian Putnam 02:50 - The Reason for the Book 06:14 - Who Should Read It 09:15 - Encyclopedia of Domestic Abuse 17:43 - Healing the Wounds 28:30 - Breaking Free & Safety Planning 34:04 - Preventing Domestic Abuse About Our Guest: Brian Putnam is an experienced attorney, advocate, and author of Escaping Domestic Abuse: A Step-by-Step Guide to Breaking Free. Through his legal work and writing, Brian provides survivors with clear, compassionate guidance for navigating the legal system and safely leaving abusive situations. For more information about Brian and/or the legal services his team provides, please visit https://www.PutnamLawOffice.com. To purchase the book, Escaping Domestic Abuse: A Step-by-Step Guide to Breaking Free, you can do so by clicking the following link - https://amzn.to/47zeFeS As Amazon Affiliates, we earn from qualifying purchases. ----------------- Domestic Abuse Resources Escaping Domestic Abuse (book) by Brian Putnam – see link aboveNational Domestic Violence Hotline – 1 (800) 799-SAFE(7233)YWCA - https://www.ywca.org/ Oklahoma Specific Domestic Abuse Resources OK Domestic Violence Hotline – 1 (800) 522-SAFE (7233)YWCA OKC– https://www.ywcaokc.org/Palomar - https://palomarokc.org/Cardinal Point - https://cardinalpointok.org/Latino Community Development - https://www.lcdaok.com/Sanctuary Women’s Development - https://www.catholiccharitiesok.org/ Other Resources Mentioned The 12 Types of Gaslighting (blog) - Vulnerability Exploitation: Twelve Typologies of Gaslighting Found in Committed Couple Relationships - Family Solutions CounselingThe 12 Types of Gaslighting (youtube series) - https://youtu.be/6XANUX7K2aU?si=Js5sNwx4IRYNd63R Gaslighting (YouTube Playlist) - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmpKQiGv_EQ7Rh-Jc_Asg4Rm5BC-m9v2e&si=Q2h-QUTB_0-65TBNEMDR - https://youtu.be/G692ymBkg-4?si=1FBu-h6VCNYMPccGEMDR (podcast episode) - Episode 22: On EMDR - What Is … - Therapists' Take with Carrie and Josh - Apple PodcastsScary Relationships - https://www.youtube.com/live/Rs-HIvN--WI?si=oSR6LGcm4YyHzyVjScary Relationships (podcast) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-01-on-scary-relationships/id1717516278?i=1000635486694------------- For more great content, check out our linktree at https://linktr.ee/familysolutionsok

    39 min
  2. Episode 62: On Navigating Life's Transitions

    AUG 18

    Episode 62: On Navigating Life's Transitions

    After a two-month pause, we’re back—and this time, we’re leaning into the space of transition. In this reflective return episode, we explore what it means to live in the “in-between”—those seasons where you’ve stepped away from what’s familiar but haven’t yet arrived at what’s next. As therapists, we spend a lot of time with people in this very space: between what was and what will be. Today, we’re sharing our take on how to understand, navigate, and even grow through these pivotal moments of change. We’re also thrilled to introduce our new producer, Alexander “Zander” Holland. Zander is a licensed therapist with a special focus on betrayal trauma couple recovery, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him join our growing podcast team. _________________ In this episode, we explore: The Uncertainty in Disruption How disruptions—planned or unplanned—create anxiety, reveal unresolved fears, and challenge our sense of control. The Grief in Growth Why all growth includes letting go, and how to honor the sorrow that comes with moving forward. The Opportunity in Reorganizing How disruption creates space to reflect, refocus, and align life with your values in new ways. The Gratitude in New Beginnings Recognizing the beauty in starting again—and how even the hardest resets can hold surprising gifts. __________________________ Book mentioned: The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer - https://amzn.to/3JlsnrR As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. _______________________________ Learn more about Zander at https://www.familysolutionsok.com/alexander-holland New Podcast just released: Poetry in Layers with Carl Patterson. Check it out wherever you get your podcast! ____________________ For more great content, check out our linktree at https://linktr.ee/familysolutionsok

    39 min
  3. Episode 61: On Pressing Pause: Why Breaks Matter

    JUN 12

    Episode 61: On Pressing Pause: Why Breaks Matter

    In this short and sunny episode of Therapists’ Take, we’re talking about the power of pressing pause—yes, even on the things we’re passionate about. As therapists, we get how easy it is to stay stuck in productivity mode, always connected and always “doing the work.” But sometimes, the most meaningful step forward is choosing to stop and just be. As we head into our own summer break this June and July, we’re reflecting on what it really means to step back with purpose. Taking a break isn’t quitting—it’s an intentional act of self-care and courage. Here’s what pressing pause can look like: Facing the Fear of Loss – Taking a break can feel scary. We talk about how to move through the fear of falling behind or being forgotten.Being Still or Slowing Down – Rest isn’t lazy; it’s vital. We share why stillness matters for your mental health.Trying Something New – A break can be the space you need to rediscover creativity and explore something life-giving.Retreating, Not Escaping – There’s a difference. We explore how to pause with intention, not avoidance. We’ll be taking a break from the podcast through June and July—but don’t worry, we’ll be back in August with more honest conversations and real talk about mental health, healing, and relationships. Until then, take good care, slow down when you can, and remember—growth doesn’t always mean moving forward ________________ 00:00 - Intro | Hi, Carrie! 01:10 - We are pressing pause. 03:56 - Episode Breakdown 08:06 - Fear of Facing Loss 13:22 - Being Still or Slowing Down 21:20 - Trying Something New 26:50 - Retreats, not Escapes ________________ Books Mentioned Eckhart Tolle Collection - https://amzn.to/401BCmiScreamFree Parenting - https://amzn.to/4mXbhQj As Amazon Affiliates, we earn on qualifying purchases. ________________ Therapists' Take on THE HEALING POWER of NATURE w/ Kelly Roberts - https://www.youtube.com/live/dbDHkJSkZ9Y?si=lPAiM7RvIcxw1eIV ________________ For more great episodes, please visit our LinkTree - https://www.linktr.ee/familysolutionsok

    32 min
  4. Episode 60: On the Hard Realities that Healthy (Non-Codependent) Couples Embrace

    JUN 5

    Episode 60: On the Hard Realities that Healthy (Non-Codependent) Couples Embrace

    In this episode of the Therapists’ Take Podcast, we explore some uncomfortable—but essential—truths that emotionally healthy, non-codependent couples have learned to live by. At first glance, these insights might feel counterintuitive or even a little controversial. But rather than chasing the illusion of the perfect relationship, these couples have embraced a more grounded, realistic approach to love—one rooted in clarity, maturity, and genuine connection. You might feel a little unsettled as we unpack these truths—not because they’re harsh, but because they challenge some deeply held assumptions. If you’ve ever questioned why conventional advice like “always compromise,” “love unconditionally,” or “just meet each other’s needs” often falls flat, this conversation will resonate. Most importantly, we’ll offer a more balanced, self-respecting framework for building meaningful relationships—without losing yourself along the way. ____________________ 00:00 - Intro | Hi, Carrie! 03:05 - Episode Breakdown 04:20 - The Shelf Life 06:30 - Prodependence Book 12:58 - Josh's Theory on Codependent Relationships 20:00 - What Is Interdependence? 22:32 - Hard Reality 1: Want vs Need 29:34 - Hard Reality 2: Unconditional vs Conditional 37:29 - Hard Reality 3: Compromise vs Sacrifice 47:00 - Hard Reality 4: Happiness vs Togetherness ____________________ Books: Prodependence by Rob Weiss - https://amzn.to/3Hbu8GQ Facing Codependence by Pia Mellody - https://amzn.to/4dLjOBG Codependent No More by Melody Beattie - https://amzn.to/3FAWc6g As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases __________________________ Interview w/ Rob Weiss - https://youtu.be/W2Z48giYxR0 ___________________________ For more great content, please visit or LinkTree - https://linktr.ee/familysolutionsok

    56 min
  5. Episode 58: On How Our Clients Impact Us (Part 1) | Whitney Alexander, LMFT

    MAY 16

    Episode 58: On How Our Clients Impact Us (Part 1) | Whitney Alexander, LMFT

    In this special two-part series, we’re joined once again by our friend and trusted colleague, Whitney Alexander, LMFT, owner of The Warren Alexander Group in Stillwater, OK. This episode dives into a conversation that’s rarely had publicly—the personal and professional impact our clients have on us as therapists. In Part 1, we explore: 🔹 How our clients’ stories shape who we are as clinicians and people 🔹 The emotional weight that comes with walking alongside others in their pain 🔹 Why it’s vital for therapists to remain aware of their own internal responses Whether you're a therapist, a client, or someone curious about the behind-the-scenes emotional world of mental health professionals, this episode offers honest insight and reflection. 🧠 About our guest: Whitney Alexander, LMFT, is a seasoned therapist and one of our most respected colleagues. She’s been featured in two of our most popular episodes: ✔️ Episode 10 – The 3 Channels of Self-Awareness ✔️ Episode 32 – Complex PTSD and the Feeling of Brokenness 👀 Don’t miss Part 2 next week, where we go even deeper into the emotional toll—and rewards—of this work. 👉 Be sure to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and check the show notes for related resources and links. __________________ 00:00 - Intro to the Episode 01:44 - About Our Guest 02:29 - Start of the Episode 04:28 - Josh Confronts Whitney 06:28 - The Impact on Us 09:45 - Self-of-Therapist 16:30 - Strong Women 17:48 - Brene Brown 19:50 - The Weight We Carry 25:25 - Vicarious Trauma 30:59 - Whitney's Closing Thoughts _______________ For more information about our guest and the services she offers, you can visit her website at https://www.warrenalexandergroup.com. _______________ White Horse Phenomenon - Brene Brown - https://youtu.be/0Wu0lp8LH3c?si=CWfHpgsGkEZEs5kU Vicarious Trauma - https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vicarious-trauma Compassion Fatigue - https://www.growthtactics.net/what-are-the-5-stages-of-compassion-fatigue ________________ To learn more about our services or to access more valuable content, please visit our linktree - https://linktr.ee/familysolutionsok

    32 min
  6. Episode 57: On 5 Things Your Therapist Looks for Every Session

    MAY 7

    Episode 57: On 5 Things Your Therapist Looks for Every Session

    Ever wonder what really catches a therapist’s eye—or ear—during a session? It’s not always the words you’re saying, but how you say them, what your body does, or the deeper patterns you may not even notice. In this episode of Therapists’ Take, we dive into the subtle but powerful signals that guide us as clinicians. From repeated themes to emotional tone to the moment a client says something “small” that’s actually huge—we’ll talk about how we tune into what truly matters. If you’ve been curious about what therapists notice and why it sometimes feels like we’re reading between the lines, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how therapy actually works. _______________ 00:00 - Hi, Carrie! (Intro) 03:03 - Processes & Patterns 06:32 - Body Language 11:00 - Incongruencies 15:56 - Resistance 20:32 - Buzz Words (BW) 21:38 - BW1: Governing Rules 23:25 - BW2: Dichotomous Thinking 24:22 - BW3: Winning/Losing 28:26 - BW4: Hierarchical Language 30:58 - BW5: The Point 35:19 - In Closing ________________ Books from this Episode: Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl - https://amzn.to/3RShtLi As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. ________________ 🎧 Want more? Check out all our resources and links at: https://www.linktr.ee/faimlysolutionsok ________________ Fair Use Disclaimer: This podcast episode includes a very brief audio clip (1–2 seconds) from the film Friday (1995), directed by F. Gary Gray and written by Ice Cube and DJ Pooh. The clip is used in a comedic and transformative context as a cultural reference and not for commercial exploitation. We believe this usage qualifies as Fair Use under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act, which allows limited use of copyrighted material for purposes such as parody, comment, and transformative expression. No copyright infringement is intended. All rights to the original film and its content remain with their respective copyright holders. 🔗 Friday (1995) on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113118/ 🎬 Directed by: F. Gary Gray ✍️ Written by: Ice Cube and DJ Pooh 🎥 Distributed by: New Line Cinema

    37 min
5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Have you ever wondered what therapists talk about with each other behind closed doors? Carrie and Josh are two mental health professionals with nearly four decades of experience between the two of them; and they are opening the door to welcome you in as they discuss and critically think through mental health, relational health, recovery issues as well as the therapeutic processes involved. You'll find these episodes to be informative, compassionate, endearing, and at times, comical. Tune in to watch the LIVE broadcasts of these episodes on Facebook and YouTube.

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