Outside The Therapy Room

As summer approaches, so does the pressure to have the “perfect summer body.” In this season finale, we’re having an honest conversation about body image, diet culture, self-worth, and the emotional impact of constantly feeling like we need to change ourselves to be accepted. Joined by therapist Amrit, we explore why this time of year can feel especially triggering, how social media and comparison...

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “why do I keep ending up in the same kind of relationship?” —this episode is for you. In this conversation, I sit down with Jordan, a couples psychotherapist, to unpack why these patterns happen in the first place. From attachment styles to nervous system familiarity, we explore how our past experiences shape who we’re drawn to—and why unhealthy dynamics can...

Healing doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. In this episode, I sit down with Sarah to talk about the small, often overlooked signs that you’re actually healing—even if it doesn’t feel like it. Because growth isn’t always loud or obvious… sometimes it’s quiet, uncomfortable, and easy to dismiss. We explore the subtle shifts that signal real change—like pausing before reacting, setting boun...

In this episode, we’re having an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about the realities of this work — beyond what we were taught in grad school. From the pressure to be a “blank slate” to questioning old expectations like no self-disclosure or even having personal photos in your office, we explore how therapists have evolved over time and find their own voice in the room. Ashley and I also ta...

Triggers are something many of us have heard about — moments when our nervous system reacts strongly to something in our environment. But what about the opposite of triggers? In this episode, we’re talking about glimmers — small, often overlooked moments that signal safety to our nervous system. Bethany returns to explore what actually happens in the body when we get triggered, why some experience...

Play isn’t just something children do for fun — it’s actually a critical part of emotional development, communication, and mental health. In this episode, child therapist, Claudia joins and together we explore the power of play and why it matters at every stage of life. We break down the difference between play and play therapy, how child-led play supports emotional growth, and how therapists use...

In many families, the eldest daughter quietly carries an invisible role — helper, mediator, caregiver, and emotional support system. Over time, this responsibility can shape identity, relationships, and mental health. Aleta is back to explore the “elder daughter phenomenon,” the pressure to be responsible and mature too early, and how these expectations can impact boundaries, burnout, and self-wor...

Sexual desire discrepancies are one of the most common — and least talked about — challenges in relationships. When one partner wants sex more often than the other, it can quickly become about much more than sex. Feelings of rejection, pressure, shame, resentment, and insecurity can start to take over. In this episode, we are joined by Sex Therapist, Lindsay Kenna to explore why differences in sex...

In this episode, I sit down with Lacey, a writer and guide in women’s self-discovery, to explore the powerful process of outgrowing old versions of ourselves. We discuss how to recognize the signs that it’s time for change, the challenges of stepping into a new identity, and practical tools for navigating transformation with compassion and intention. Whether you’re in an in-between season, feeling...

Motherhood comes with an invisible mental load — planning, regulating emotions, staying organized, and constantly responding to others’ needs. For mothers with ADHD, this load can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and deeply misunderstood. In this episode, we’re joined by therapist Wendy Gage, who specializes in supporting ADHD moms. We explore how ADHD shows up in motherhood, why many women are diag...

Content note: This episode discusses infidelity and relational trauma. Please listen at your own pace. After infidelity, many people find themselves asking an impossible question: Do I stay, or do I go? In Part 2 of this series, Ashley is back and together we focus on what happens after betrayal — the emotional aftermath, the healing process, and how people begin to make decisions that honour thei...

The pelvic floor plays a critical role in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, stability, and core strength — but it also has a profound connection to our nervous system and emotional health. In this episode, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist, Laura Holland, joings us to talk about how chronic stress, trauma, anxiety, and shame can influence pelvic floor dysfunction — and how pelvic health conce...

If you’ve been feeling more tired, unmotivated, or emotionally heavy lately — especially during the winter months — you’re not alone. In this solo episode, we explore why February can feel particularly difficult, especially in colder climates like Ontario, and how your body and nervous system naturally respond to reduced sunlight, colder temperatures, and seasonal changes. This episode offers comp...

Infertility is often treated as a medical issue — but for those living it, the emotional and mental toll can be just as heavy. In this episode, we’re joined by Olivia, a fertility coach, to explore the emotional side of trying to conceive. Together, we talk about the stress, grief, self-blame, and isolation that can come with infertility, as well as how mindset, self-compassion, and supportive too...

Men are often taught to push through, stay strong, and keep their emotions to themselves—but that silence comes at a cost. In this episode, we’re joined by John Shearer, owner of Kickstart Men's Therapy, for an honest and compassionate conversation about men’s mental health. We explore why so many men struggle in silence, how stigma and traditional masculinity shape emotional expression, and...

Content note: This episode discusses infidelity and relational betrayal. Please listen with care. Infidelity is one of the most painful and misunderstood experiences in relationships. Ashley Mariani joins us in this first part of our two-part series; we explore why people cheat — moving beyond blame, shame, and oversimplified narratives. Together, Ashley and I unpack what infidelity really means,...

Friendships can bring joy, support, and meaning—but they can also create anxiety, doubt, and emotional stress. In this episode, Bethany joins us and helps us unpack friendship anxiety, why some friendships end, and how to navigate letting go with compassion and confidence.  This episode is for anyone looking to understand their friendships better and approach them with self-awareness and care.  Fo...

Sports have a unique power to bring people together — packed arenas, shared chants, lifelong traditions, and the electric feeling of belonging to something bigger than yourself. For many, being part of a sports fanbase creates connection, joy, and a sense of community that extends far beyond the game itself. But fandom also has a darker side. Rivalries can turn hostile, emotions can escalate, and...

The holidays are often painted as a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but for caregivers, this season can bring an entirely different emotional landscape. In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Muskat, a therapist who specializes in caregiver mental health, to unpack the complex layers of supporting a loved one with dementia,  Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), or other health challenges d...

The holidays promise joy, connection, and magical memories — but for many parents, they also bring a perfect storm of pressure, expectations, and emotional overload. In this episode, we dive into the reality behind the festive photos: the overwhelm of trying to create the “perfect” holiday, navigating complicated family dynamics, managing judgment around parenting choices, and the added pressure w...

*** DISCLAIMER: This episode focuses on True Crime, we mention real murders, trials and other subjects that may be sensitive to some listeners.*** Why are we so obsessed with true crime? From podcasts and documentaries to TikTok deep dives, true crime content has exploded in popularity—but what is it about these stories that pulls us in? In this episode, I sit down with Bethany to break down the p...

In this episode, I sit down with Jenni for a grounded and insightful conversation about tarot—beyond predictions and mystique, and into its power as a tool for self-reflection. We explore how tarot can spark curiosity, deepen personal insight, and help us connect with our emotions and inner wisdom in a way that truly supports mental health and personal growth. Jenni shares how she approaches tarot...

Destinee returns to the podcast! Live from maternity leave, she opens up about her experience as a new mom — the expectations, challenges, and surprises that come with stepping into motherhood. From navigating identity shifts to balancing her role as both a parent and her own self, Destinee shares honest reflections on what’s helped her stay grounded, what’s caught her off guard, and how she’s lea...

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Mason, a passionate advocate and lived-experience expert, to explore Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs) — including hair pulling and skin picking. Julie opens up about her personal journey, shedding light on the emotional and neurological components of BFRBs and why they are so often misunderstood. Together, we discuss what BFRBs are, how they can sh...

In this episode, I sits down with postpartum doula Lisette to talk about the power of peer support during the postpartum journey. Together we explore why having a village matters, how shared experiences help new parents feel seen and supported, and simple ways to build connection during one of life’s biggest transitions. Whether you’re a new parent, a support person, or a professional in perinatal...