Therapists Unplugged

Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty

5.0 (1)
Mental Health
Updated Semimonthly

Welcome to Therapists Unplugged, where two Licensed Professional Counselors come together to explore the complexities of the human mind, relationships, and personal growth. In each episode, we'll share insights, practical tools, and candid conversations. Tune in if you're seeking self-improvement, healing, or simply curious about the world of therapy.

1d ago

Social Media and Mental Health (Part 1)

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty discuss the complex relationship between social media and mental health. They explore current research on how social media use can contribute to anxiety, depression, loneliness, body image concerns, and emotional distress. Katie and Emily also examine why social media platforms are so difficult to put down and how comparison culture and constant connectivity can impact emotional well-being. They conclude by encouraging listeners to become more intentional with their social media use and to prioritize meaningful, in-person connection as they begin a multi-part conversation on building a healthier relationship with technology. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode mentions and links: Healthy Roots Counseling Website Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram

34 min
Jun 15

Would you say that to a friend? Understanding Self Compassion

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty discuss self-compassion and why it can be so difficult to extend kindness and understanding to ourselves. They explore the core components of self-compassion while addressing common misconceptions. Katie and Emily discuss the barriers that often keep people stuck in self-criticism. They also examine the impact of a harsh inner critic on anxiety, depression, burnout, parenting stress, and relationships, while sharing practical strategies listeners can use to develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves during both successes and setbacks. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode mentions and links: Dr. Kristin Neff Healthy Roots Counseling Website Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram

38 min
Jun 1

Compassion Fatigue: Signs, Struggles & Support

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty discuss compassion fatigue and the emotional exhaustion that can come from caring deeply for others. They explore how compassion fatigue differs from burnout, the signs and symptoms people may experience, and how it can impact emotional well-being, relationships, and daily life. Katie and Emily also share realistic strategies for setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and replenishing emotional capacity while reminding listeners that needing support does not mean they are failing. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode mentions and links: Healthy Roots Counseling Website Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram

51 min
May 4

All About Katie: A Birthday Deep Dive Behind the Mic

It's a birthday celebration on Therapists Unplugged! In this special episode, Emily McCarty interviews and celebrates co-host and fellow therapist Katie Gerwel for her birthday. With a mix of playful questions and thoughtful moments, Katie shares stories, perspectives, and pieces of her journey that listeners don't always get to hear. The conversation weaves between lighthearted fun and deeper reflections, touching on personal growth, the realities of doing inner work, and the everyday practices that help her stay grounded. This episode brings a little bit of laughter, honesty, and a touch of birthday warmth, while reminding us that therapists are people too, navigating life right alongside everyone else. Episode mentions and links: Healthy Roots Counseling Website Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment.

33 min
Apr 20

CBT, EMDR, IFS, XYNZ (Therapy Modalities Explained)

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty simplify the often confusing world of therapy modalities, breaking down what acronyms like CBT, EMDR, and IFS actually mean. They explain what a modality is and emphasize that there's no one-size-fits-all method. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode links and mentions; Healthy Roots Counseling Website Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram

47 min
Mar 23

Therapists Unplugged: One Year Later

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty reflect on a full year of conversations about mental health, self-care, and personal growth. They share why they started the podcast, what surprised them along the way, and revisit meaningful moments from past episodes. Katie and Emily also discuss what podcasting has taught them, both personally and professionally, and highlight key mental health takeaways. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode mentions and links: Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram Healthy Roots Counseling Website

37 min
Mar 9

What Healing Really Looks Like

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty explore what healing actually looks like and why the process can feel harder before it starts to feel better. Through a mental health–centered lens, they normalize why many people feel discouraged when therapy brings up more emotions, memories, or body sensations rather than immediate relief. Katie and Emily explain the science behind healing in accessible terms, discussing how the brain and nervous system change through neuroplasticity, how trauma recovery expands our window of tolerance, and why healing is about integration rather than erasing painful experiences. They also highlight the nonlinear nature of growth and share subtle but meaningful signs of progress. If you've ever wondered whether therapy is working or felt discouraged by the ups and downs of personal growth, this episode offers reassurance and a compassionate reminder that healing isn't about becoming someone new—it's about becoming more fully yourself. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode mentions and links: Healthy Roots Instagram Healthy Roots Website

34 min
Feb 23

Why Trauma Isn't Always a Single Event

In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty explore why trauma isn't always a single event. They explain that trauma is defined by the nervous system's response to overwhelm, lack of safety, and lack of support—not by how "big" the experience appears from the outside. Katie and Emily discuss how cumulative stress can build over time and impact the brain and body. They also unpack why people often minimize their experiences and how trauma can show up as anxiety, shutdown, people-pleasing, shame, or feeling stuck. The content of the Therapists Unplugged podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health therapy or treatment. Episode mentions and links: Healthy Roots Counseling Website Healthy Roots Counseling Instagram The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.

48 min

Welcome to Therapists Unplugged, where two Licensed Professional Counselors come together to explore the complexities of the human mind, relationships, and personal growth. In each episode, we'll share insights, practical tools, and candid conversations. Tune in if you're seeking self-improvement, healing, or simply curious about the world of therapy.

Creator

Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

30
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025
Show Website

Therapists Unplugged