Minutes with Mon

Mon and Jess discuss the increasing use of Kratom, a drug that is afforable, easily accessible, and becoming more common in the US. They review the drug's effects, likelihood of abuse and addiction, and current scientific and medical beliefs regarding Kratom's safety.

Karen Shaak, host of "At My Kitchen Table" interviews Monica about her childhood, her background, her family, and the life experiences that led her to pursue a career as a therapist and social worker. We want to thank Karen for this great interview, and for letting us share this great conversation with our listeners!

Mon and Jess discuss depression and how to differentiate it from sadness or grief. They explore the impact that depression can have on the people who experience it and those who love them, and they talk about various ways to address it, from self-care to therapy and medication. Resources are provided for those in need, and advice is offered to those who suspect a loved one may be experiencing depr...

Mon and Jess discuss love languages, the different ways that people express and receive love, and how understanding your love language, and the love language of the important people in your life, can enrich your relationships.

Mon welcomes a very special guest, Ayesha, and they discuss the epidemic of loneliness and the unique factors of our modern era that have created and exacerbated our sense of emotional isolation from one another. They explore the ways that loneliness can be manifested in our lives, the struggles we face in trying to connect with others, and ways we can reach out and create lasting relationships.

Mon and Jes identify different types of trauma and the ways that trauma can be manifested. They then discuss trauma bonding, relationships that are characterized by shared trauma. Are these relationships sustainable? Are they healthy?

Mon and Jes talk about gaslighting: where the term came from, what it is, who does it, and how to maintain clarity if someone is making you doubt your own perception.

Mon and Jess explore betrayal blindness, which occurs when a person experiences betrayal but cannot recognize or acknowledge it. They discuss the causes of betrayal blindness, the ripple effects of betrayal by a loved one, and healthy ways to try to rebuild bonds that have been damaged by betrayal.

Mon talks about stimming-repetitive sounds, actions, or movements that help some people manage sensory overload and regulate emotions.

Mon and Jes discuss microaggressions: what they are, how they affect the people who experience them, how to be mindful about doing them, and how to handle them constructively if you experience them.

Mon discusses the fear of speaking on the phone and it's prevalence in modern society.

Monica is joined by Dr. Marta McClintock-Comeaux, PhD, LCSW to discuss couples counseling. Resources Emily Nagoski, “Come as You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life” Emily Nagoski, “Come Together: The Science (and Art!) of Creating Lasting Sexual Connections” Leslie S. Greenberg and Susan M. Johnson, “Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples” Terrence Real, “Us: Gettin...

In this bonus episode, Mon talks with Shayla Garman, MSW, LISW, CSAYC about sex and consent. Resources Amaze.org Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve

We hope you enjoy this encore episode on Mindfulness. Mon and Jes talk about mindfulness, how to integrate small bits of mindfulness into your day, and Mon does a short mindfulness activity. Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve Apps Calm, Headspace, Insight Timer, Happier, Smiling Mind Books The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh Wherever You Go, There You Are  by Jon Kabat-Zin...

Another encore episode for your listening pleasure. Mon & Jes talk about main character syndrome, a term that is gaining popularity with those in the therapy and social work community. Music by Daniel Griffin. Produced by Yesmina Maeve.

Please enjoy this encore performance of our episode on navigating narcissism. Mon and Jes discuss narcissism, the clinical definition of narcissism, and how to manage the narcissists (or those with narcissistic traits) in your life. Music by Daniel Griffin. Produced by Yesmina Maeve.

For our first bonus episode, Mon talks with Dr. Azi Block about cognitive dissonance. Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve

For our first post-season encore, we present the episode on Anxiety. Mon and Jes discuss anxiety, ways to address anxiety, and times when anxiety might actually be good for you. Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Salib

For the last episode of season one, Mon and Jes talk about gratitude. Books: Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier, by Arthur C. Brooks & Oprah Winfrey Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve

Mon and Jes talk about hyper-independence, the importance of asking for help, and how to support the people in your life who may need help (even if they're not asking for it). Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve

Mon and Jes discuss euphoric recall, how it relates to nostalgia, and ways to address it should you see it in yourself or others. Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve

Mon and Jes talk ~relationships~ and finding ways to support the introvert or extrovert in your life. Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve Articles! https://www.wellandgood.com/lifestyle/introvert-extrovert-relationship https://www.huffpost.com/entry/types-of-introverts_l_67aa4895e4b09fd55bc64d0e

ENCORE: Take a list to one of our favorite episodes on laughter! Mon and Jes discuss the importance of laughter, how to find humor in challenging times, and how to help others find the humor in life. Music by Daniel Griffin. Produced by Yesmina Maeve.

Mon and Jes discuss Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), which may be associated with ADHD and can present challenges to individuals experiencing RSD and those who love them.

Mon and Jes talk about ADHD, ways to manage ADHD, and resources! Music by Daniel Griffin Produced by Yesmina Maeve Books The ADHD Workbook for Teens, by Laura Honos-Webb ADHD: What Everyone Needs to Know, by Katherine Ellison and Stephen P. Hinshaw Taking Charge of ADHD, by Russell Barkley The ADHD Effect on Marriage: Understand and Rebuild Your Relationship in Six Steps, by Melissa Orlov Podcasts...