Transforming Relationships

Eric Spiegel and David Alter
  • ٥٫٠ (٥)
  • علاقات
  • يتم التحديث كل أسبوعين

Transforming Relationships is a podcast about how relationships shape our minds, our lives, and the world. The hosts, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter, bring their decades of expertise as psychologists and hypnotherapists to this rich series. Relationships are the foundation of life. The podcast explores the profound role that relationships play— from the earliest bonds of attachment in childhood to the complex relational networks of influence in our culture, communities, politics, technology, and collective life. Through engaging discussions, Eric and David explore meaningful facets of being human and "in relationship." The podcast will feature two new episodes each month. Join us for a journey into the world of the transformative nature of relationships by tuning into Transforming Relationships, with Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter.

  1. قبل ٣ أيام

    Life Amid War — Voices From Ukraine

    What is it like to live psychologically under the constant threat of war? In this episode, Ukrainian psychologists Volodymyr Voloshin and Olha Serha share firsthand experiences of living and working in Ukraine during ongoing conflict. We explore trauma, resilience, relationships, uncertainty, and the emotional realities of adapting to life under chronic danger. The conversation examines how war reshapes identity, daily life, and mental health — while also revealing the power of connection, community, and hope in sustaining resilience. A moving discussion about survival, healing, and the human experience during war. Subscribe to the newsletter for episode updates and reflections: https://www.transformingrelationships.substack.com/subscribe Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships

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  2. What Creates Change in Psychotherapy? | Dr. Mary Jo Peebles

    ٥ مايو

    What Creates Change in Psychotherapy? | Dr. Mary Jo Peebles

    What creates real change in psychotherapy? In this episode, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter speak with Dr. Mary Jo Peebles, clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst, about the deeper processes that drive transformation in therapy. Moving beyond technique-driven and manualized approaches, Dr. Peebles explores psychotherapy as a dynamic, relational process—one shaped by uncertainty, mutual influence, and the evolving interaction between therapist and patient. The conversation examines how therapeutic change emerges over time through moments of connection, rupture and repair, and shifts in perception and expectation. It also highlights the importance of "scaffolding" in early treatment, the role of relational safety, and the neurobiological foundations of lasting psychological change. If you'd like episode updates, reflections, and future conversations delivered directly to you, join the email list on Substack: https://transformingrelationships.substack.com/subscribe Topics include: The limits of manualized and protocol-driven therapy Psychotherapy as a relational, emergent process The role of uncertainty and ambiguity in clinical work Rupture, repair, and the development of trust Scaffolding and early therapeutic structure Perception, expectation, and psychological change Neurobiological perspectives on transformation This episode offers a nuanced exploration of psychotherapy for clinicians, students, and anyone interested in how meaningful change unfolds within human relationships. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mary Jo Peebles 02:54 The Complexity of Psychotherapy 05:54 Trans-Theoretical Approaches in Therapy 08:47 Siloed Practices in Psychology 11:55 The Role of Identity in Therapy 15:07 Understanding Patient Experiences 18:07 Role Play: Navigating Panic Attacks 20:54 Exploring Uniqueness vs. Commonality in Therapy 24:11 Role Play: Attachment and Connection 27:06 The Therapeutic Alliance and Patient Engagement 36:05 The Emergence of Change 39:02 Navigating Emotional Spaces 43:51 Understanding the Therapeutic Process 46:17 The Role of Ambiguity in Therapy 48:09 Scaffolding in Early Sessions 52:51 Duality of Experience in Therapy 55:05 Rupture and Repair in Therapeutic Relationships 01:01:52 The Challenge of Change 01:06:57 Structural Changes for Lasting Impact Follow Dr. David Alter:     General Info: www.drdavidalter.com      For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com       Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel:     General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com     Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com

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  3. ٢١ أبريل

    Loneliness and the Crisis in Connection

    Are we truly facing a loneliness epidemic—or are we misunderstanding what connection really requires? In this episode, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter explore the growing concern that modern life is eroding meaningful human connection. They examine how changes in technology, work, and social structure have reshaped relationships—and why many people feel increasingly disconnected despite constant contact. The conversation distinguishes between being alone, feeling lonely, and being fundamentally disconnected, offering a more precise framework for understanding emotional isolation. They also explore why many attempts at connection feel superficial or performative, and what actually creates relationships that are reciprocal, honest, and emotionally sustaining. The episode concludes with practical, grounded ways to rebuild connection—through consistency, vulnerability, and a willingness to engage beyond surface-level interaction. Key Topics The "loneliness epidemic": reality vs perception Real vs superficial relationships Technology and social disconnection Vulnerability and reciprocity in relationships Rebuilding meaningful connection The role of environment, nature, and presence

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  4. Conflict, Identity and Multiple Perspectives in Israel–Palestine

    ١ أبريل

    Conflict, Identity and Multiple Perspectives in Israel–Palestine

    Why is it so difficult to hold multiple perspectives in conflict, especially when identity, history, and trauma are involved? In this episode, conflict negotiator Naseem Khuri explores the psychology of conflict through the lens of Israel–Palestine and, later in the episode, polarization in the United States. Drawing on his professional work and personal history, he examines how people interpret the same reality in fundamentally different ways, and why conflict is often something to be managed rather than resolved. The conversation addresses intergenerational trauma, competing narratives of loss and displacement, the danger of certainty, and the role of process in creating conditions for understanding. It also explores the limits of empathy in active conflict and the importance of building structures that allow people to be heard without requiring agreement. This episode offers a psychological perspective on conflict, identity, and polarization—both in international contexts and in everyday human relationships. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Naseem Khuri   Follow Dr. David Alter:    General Info: www.drdavidalter.com     For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com   Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel:    General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com     Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com     Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel

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  5. Dr. David Patterson: Hypnosis, Pain & Neuroplasticity

    ١٢ مارس

    Dr. David Patterson: Hypnosis, Pain & Neuroplasticity

    How can hypnosis transform the way we experience pain? In this episode, psychologists Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter speak with Dr. David Patterson, a leading expert in pain psychology and medical hypnosis, about the science and psychology of pain—and how hypnosis can reshape our relationship with it. The conversation explores the critical differences between acute and chronic pain, the role of neuroplasticity in maintaining pain patterns, and how hypnosis can help patients shift perception, reduce suffering, and reconnect with activity and meaning. Dr. Patterson also shares deeply personal reflections on grief, resilience, and healing, illustrating how relational aspects of therapy and human connection play a powerful role in recovery. This episode offers both clinical insight and human perspective on one of the most challenging experiences people face: living with pain. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: David Patterson Keywords Pain management Hypnosis Neuroplasticity Chronic pain Medical hypnosis Psychotherapy Pain treatment Mind-body medicine Emotional resilience Healing   Follow Dr. David Alter:    General Info: www.drdavidalter.com     For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com   Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel:    General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com     Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com     Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel

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  6. "Mother was a Psychopath: I Became a Psychologist"

    ٥ مارس

    "Mother was a Psychopath: I Became a Psychologist"

    In this episode of Transforming Relationships, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter sit down with Dr. Susanna Carolusson, a psychologist whose career has spanned five decades of work in trauma treatment, hypnosis, and ego state therapy. Drawing on both clinical wisdom and lived experience, Dr. Carolusson reflects on how her own childhood adversity—including growing up with a deeply troubled parent—shaped her lifelong curiosity about the mind and her commitment to helping others heal. The conversation explores ego state therapy and parts work, the role of hypnosis in trauma treatment, and the importance of attunement and emotional safety in the therapeutic relationship. Dr. Carolusson describes how understanding the different "parts" of the self can help clients move toward integration, resilience, and a renewed sense of vitality. Along the way, she offers practical wisdom for therapists and anyone interested in personal growth—from learning to listen to the body's signals to cultivating the kind of curiosity that restores energy, creativity, and connection. Whether you're a clinician, a student of psychology, or someone interested in the process of healing, this episode offers a rare opportunity to learn from a therapist whose work bridges personal transformation and decades of trauma-informed practice. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Susanna Carolusson Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Topics Covered: Ego state therapy and parts work Hypnosis in trauma treatment Attunement and safety in psychotherapy Curiosity as a therapeutic tool Therapist–client boundaries Resilience and childhood adversity Listening to the body in the healing process Keywords: psychology, trauma therapy, hypnosis, clinical hypnosis, ego state therapy, parts work, trauma healing, attachment, psychotherapy, mental health, therapy techniques, resilience, personal growth, attunement in therapy, trauma treatment Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Transforming Relationships 05:26 The Role of Hypnosis in Trauma Treatment 10:51 Understanding the Parts of the Self 16:11 Curiosity as a Therapeutic Tool 25:39 Navigating Therapist–Patient Boundaries 34:56 The Dandelion Child: Resilience in Adversity 45:19 Listening to the Body: Intuition and Healing   Follow Dr. Susanna Carolusson:     General Info: https://carolussons.se/english.htm Follow Dr. David Alter:    General Info: www.drdavidalter.com    For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com   Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel:    General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com    Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com    Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel

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  7. Dr. Richard Chefetz on Transforming Trauma into Healing

    ٢٥ فبراير

    Dr. Richard Chefetz on Transforming Trauma into Healing

    In this episode of Transforming Relationships, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter sit down with trauma psychiatrist and author Dr. Richard Chefetz for a profound exploration of trauma, dissociation, and what it means to feel real. Together, they examine how disconnection forms amidst trauma—and how empathy, presence, and safe relational spaces help restore connection. The discussion delves into the impact of dehumanization in enabling trauma; and the therapeutic use of hypnosis in trauma therapy. Throughout the conversation, the speakers emphasize the significance of creating safe spaces for vulnerability and the power of non-verbal communication in fostering intimacy. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges of intimacy in therapy and the need for meaningful connection in our relationships.  Through clinical insight and heartfelt dialogue, this episode illuminates how genuine presence can transform both therapy and relationships. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Richard Chefetz Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Keywords: trauma, dissociation, connection, healing, empathy, hypnosis, therapy, vulnerability, non-verbal communication, intimacy Takeaways: Trauma can lead to dissociation and a fear of feeling real. Connection is essential for healing and transformation. Empathy and vulnerability are crucial in therapeutic relationships. Dehumanization can occur in families and society, impacting relationships. Hypnosis can facilitate connection and healing in therapy. Creating safe spaces allows for open communication and vulnerability. Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in therapy. Understanding the complexity of self and other is vital for healing. Intimacy in therapy requires both clinician and patient to be present. We all need to know that we exist and matter. Chapters: 00:22 Introduction to Transforming Relationships 02:09 Understanding Trauma and Dissociation 05:46 The Impact of Trauma on Connection 10:14 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing 14:37 The Role of Hypnosis in Therapy 19:19 The Importance of Bearing Witness 24:36 Intimacy and Vulnerability in Therapy 37:29 The Role of Vulnerability in Therapy 42:34 Understanding Nonverbal Communication 49:27 The Importance of Existence and Mattering 58:00 Navigating Shame and Humiliation 01:02:10 The Power of Presence in Therapy 01:06:15 Reflections on the Interview with Richard Chefetz   Follow Dr. Richard Chefetz:     General Info: www.richardchefetzmd.com Follow Dr. David Alter:    General Info: www.drdavidalter.com     For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com   Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel:    General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com     Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com     Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel

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  8. Rabbis Ain & Weininger: Building Community & Kahal

    ١٩ فبراير

    Rabbis Ain & Weininger: Building Community & Kahal

    In this episode, Eric Spiegel and David Alter sit down with Rabbi Rachel Ain (New York City) and Rabbi Aaron Weininger (Minneapolis) to explore the transformative power of community. Together, they examine the concept of Kahal—the sacred gathering of diverse individuals—and what it means to truly show up for one another in moments of joy, grief, and crisis. Rabbi Weininger shares lessons from recent ICE actions affecting the Minneapolis community, while Rabbi Ain reflects on congregational life in New York following 9/11. Both discuss in personal ways their experiences as Rabbis leading their communities in the new landscape post-October 7th. The conversation explores how communities navigate polarization, identity, and difficult conversations while maintaining empathy, clarity, and love. They discuss why presence matters, how boundaries strengthen relationships, and why diverse perspectives enrich communal life. As one guest notes, "Community has the power to transform relationships." With this in mind, this episode asks: How do we build resilient communities capable of transforming relationships in emotionally and spiritually profound ways? Keywords: community, kahal, synagogue, faith leadership, Rabbi Rachel Ain, Rabbi Aaron Weininger, October 7th, 9/11, ICE Minneapolis, empathy, polarization, identity, relationships, resilience, grief and joy, interfaith dialogue, community crisis leadership Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guests: Rabbis Rachel Ain & Aaron Weininger Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships   Follow Dr. David Alter:    General Info: www.drdavidalter.com     For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com   Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel:    General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com     Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com     Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel

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Transforming Relationships is a podcast about how relationships shape our minds, our lives, and the world. The hosts, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter, bring their decades of expertise as psychologists and hypnotherapists to this rich series. Relationships are the foundation of life. The podcast explores the profound role that relationships play— from the earliest bonds of attachment in childhood to the complex relational networks of influence in our culture, communities, politics, technology, and collective life. Through engaging discussions, Eric and David explore meaningful facets of being human and "in relationship." The podcast will feature two new episodes each month. Join us for a journey into the world of the transformative nature of relationships by tuning into Transforming Relationships, with Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter.

المعلومات

  • صناع العمل
    Eric Spiegel and David Alter
  • سنوات النشاط
    ٢٠٢٥ - ٢٠٢٦
  • الحلقات
    ١٦
  • التقييم
    ملائم
  • حقوق النشر
    © 2025
  • موقع البرنامج على الويب
    Transforming Relationships

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