Choosing Help: The Mental Health Podcast with Tracy Stecker, PhD

In this heartfelt episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker welcomes author Nigel Roberts to discuss his memoir, The Leopard in the Moon . After losing both his wife and daughter to the devastating effects of bipolar disorder and substance use, Nigel embarked on a 450-mile trek through Nepal—an experience that became the foundation for a profound exploration of grief, caregiving, guilt, resilie...

What if anxiety isn’t just emotional—but biological? In this episode of the Choosing Help Podcast , Dr. Tracy Stecker talks with neuroscientist and author Dr. Troy Rohn about the science of anxiety and what’s really happening in the brain. They explore how anxiety functions as a fear-based neural circuit, why current treatments like SSRIs have limitations, and how emerging gene therapy approaches...

What does it take to develop the mindset of a Navy SEAL—and how can those lessons help us in everyday life? In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker speaks with retired Navy SEAL Don Mann about the principles behind elite performance, resilience, and mental strength. They explore topics like commitment, accountability, growth through discomfort, and the importance of connection in over...

Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect. In this bonus episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Autumn Gallegos leads a short, guided mindfulness exercise designed to help you settle your nervous system and return to the present moment. This simple practice invites you to notice your breath, become aware of your body, and gently observe your thoughts without judgment. Whether you’re feeling stressed,...

What happens to us after trauma—and how do we begin to feel safe again? In this episode, Dr. Tracy Stecker speaks with Dr. Autumn Gallegos, a psychologist specializing in trauma and mind-body interventions. Together, they unpack how trauma reshapes our nervous system, why self-blame is so common, and how mindfulness can help restore a sense of safety. You’ll learn: How trauma affects both body and...

Loneliness isn’t just a feeling—it’s a biological condition that can impact everything from your immune system to your ability to heal. In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker and Dr. Teresa Kelechi explore groundbreaking findings linking loneliness to gene expression, inflammation, and chronic illness. You’ll learn why some people don’t heal despite receiving the best medical care—an...

Laughter isn’t just a reaction—it’s a powerful tool for healing. In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker explores the science and soul of laughter with storyteller and former comedian Dee Kennedy. Together, they dive into how humor lowers stress, strengthens connection, and helps us navigate even the most difficult experiences. Through candid stories about family dynamics, recovery, c...

Trauma and addiction often go hand in hand—but recovery is possible. In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker speaks with Dr. Sudie Back, a leading expert in PTSD and substance use disorders, about how trauma affects the brain, why people turn to substances, and what real, effective treatment looks like. They explore: The difference between trauma and PTSD Why avoidance keeps people st...

Stigma keeps too many people from getting the mental health support they need. In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stacker breaks down why stigma is one of the most powerful barriers to treatment—especially for veterans, families, and those living with PTSD or substance use challenges. Through real stories, cultural examples, and practical guidance, this episode offers hope and tools for...

In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by psychologist and researcher Dr. Jennifer M. Gómez for a profound conversation about Cultural Betrayal Trauma —a form of trauma that occurs when harm is committed within one’s own marginalized community under conditions of systemic inequality. Dr. Gómez shares how cultural betrayal adds layers of silence, identity conflict, and fear...

What do you do when someone you love needs help — but doesn’t want it? In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker leads a heartfelt roundtable discussion with a group of women about how they talk to a loved one who may be struggling and resisting support. Together, they explore empathy, timing, boundaries, enabling, stigma, faith, and the fear of “saying the wrong thing.” Dr. Stecker sha...

In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Angela Geraci of the Geraci Zoo , a wildlife rehabilitator who spends her days—and nights—caring for injured, orphaned, and non‑releasable wildlife. Angela shares what it’s really like to be a helper who rarely gets a break, including compassion fatigue, grief, public criticism, and the challenge of knowing when to hold on and when...

In this insightful episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Drs. Ashrafiune and Allan to explore the rising political anxiety many of us face today. They unpack the polarized “team A vs. team B” mentality fueling fear and division, and introduce practical strategies to manage anxiety and engage in healthier, more productive political conversations. Key Topics Covered: Understanding...

In this heartfelt episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with caregivers Ann Greenwald, Rebecca Horvath, and Kelly Winter for an honest, intimate conversation about the emotional reality of caregiving. Together, they explore the overwhelm that comes with constant responsibility, the guilt that lingers even when you’re doing everything you can, the fear that accompanies serious illn...

This episode of the Choosing Help Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of Stoicism as both an ancient philosophy and a practical psychological tool. Hosted by Tracy Stecker, PhD and featuring guest Kortney Yasenka, LCMHC the discussion highlights Stoicism’s relevance to mental health, trauma recovery, and everyday challenges, emphasizing personal empowerment through focusing on controllable...

In this insightful episode of the Choosing Help podcast, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Amanda Raines to explore the often overlooked topic of "safety aids"—behaviors and cognitive strategies people use to reduce anxiety in the moment but that can paradoxically increase anxiety over time. From everyday examples like drinking alcohol or a child’s security blanket...

Why are mental health treatment rates lower in racial and ethnic minority groups, and how can we bridge the gap? In this episode, Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with clinical psychologist and help-seeking expert Dr. Taylor Rodriguez to dismantle the barriers facing minoritized communities. From the "one-size-fits-all" approach of traditional therapy to the cultural value of "staying st...

Many people who clearly struggle with mental health or substance use still say, “I don’t need help.” In this conversation, Dr. Tracy Stecker and longtime teacher/prison educator Ronald Pendley unpack what “I’m good” can really mean—mistrust, fear, learned survival strategies—and how honest, empathetic, non‑judgmental conversations can open the door to support. You’ll hear stories from classrooms a...

In this impactful episode of the Choosing Help podcast, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Tedra Cobb and Dr. Lisham Ashrafioun to explore the pervasive stigma surrounding substance use disorders and addiction. Through heartfelt stories—including Dr. Stecker’s personal account of her elderly mother’s struggle with pain management and addiction—this conversation sheds light on how stigma complicates re...

In this insightful episode of the Choosing Help podcast, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Tyler Webb, a therapist and social worker specializing in substance use disorder treatment. Together, they explore the profound impact addiction has on relationships, examining how substance use can create patterns of isolation, shame, and behavioral changes that strain connections between loved ones. They disc...

In this episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker speaks with Michael Dennis—pastor, storyteller, comedian, and longtime Austin community leader—about the deep connections between spirituality, mental health, and the search for meaning. Drawing from his 25 years in ministry, personal experiences with his mother’s schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s, and his work with people facing depression, lonelin...

In this powerful and compassionate episode of Choosing Help , Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Jay Baffa for an honest conversation about suicidal thoughts—how common they actually are, what drives them, and, most importantly, how people can find help and hope. Together they break down the stigma around talking about suicide, explore the emotional pain that often underlie...

Welcome to this episode of the Choosing Help podcast with Dr. Tracy Stecker and Dr. Lisham Ashrafioun, where we dive deep into the art of active listening—an essential skill for meaningful connection, especially in emotionally charged or difficult conversations. Although listening may seem simple because we do it every day, being a truly effective listener requires intentional effort and practice....

Hosted by Dr. Tracy Stecker, Choosing Help is a podcast about courage, connection, and the transformative power of asking for support. Through candid conversations, expert insights, and real-world stories, we break down stigma and open doors to understanding—because when we choose help, we choose life. In this episode, Dr. Stecker welcomes retired Army Colonel and psychiatrist Dr. Charles Hoge, au...

In this episode, Dr. Tracy Stecker and Dr. Nicholas Allen dive deep into the science of anxiety and its many forms. They unpack the concept of anxiety sensitivity —a heightened fear of bodily sensations—and explore how it drives avoidance behaviors that disrupt daily life. Dr. Allen shares evidence-based treatments, including exercise programs  and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)  techniques li...