Resilience Development in Action: First Responder Mental Health

Send us Fan Mail Trauma lies at the heart of most psychological suffering, yet our understanding of it continues to evolve. In this profound conversation with the returning "Mental Men" panel of experienced therapists, we explore how mental health treatment has transformed from psychoanalysis that sometimes minimized real trauma to approaches that honor lived experiences and their lastin...

Send us Fan Mail   First responders—police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and emergency room personnel—face unique psychological stressors that extend far beyond trauma exposure. In this insightful Podcourse, I'm joined by Steve Bisson, LMHC, to explore the complexities of first responder mental health and how therapists can effectively support this population. Purchase this Podcou...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when the therapist needs therapy? In this vulnerable and illuminating conversation, clinical counselor Jennifer Schrappe opens up about her personal wake-up call that forced her to confront years of self-neglect while caring for others. With over 20 years of experience in mental health and standing at the intersection of therapeutic practice and pastoral ministry, Jen...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging episode focused on mental health and resilience, we reflect on the evolution of our podcast as we shift towards the theme of "Finding Your Way: Resilience Development in Action." Therapy plays a crucial role in not only individual growth but also in creating strong support systems for professionals—particularly first responders who encounter daily challe...

Send us Fan Mail What if you could heal trauma and emotional pain through movement? Join us as dance movement therapist Lisa Manca, alongside guest co-host Courtney Romanowski, unveils the transformative power of dance therapy. Lisa brings her expertise from forensic and psychiatric settings, offering unique insights into how movement can aid personal growth and healing. We tackle the challenges m...

Send us Fan Mail Jessica Jamison returns to our studio, unfolding her transformative journey from the weight loss industry to becoming a dedicated advocate for those battling eating disorders. Her shift aligns deeply with her personal values, shedding societal expectations and embracing authenticity. Jessica's story highlights a powerful transition, illustrating how past experiences of reject...

Send us Fan Mail What if the very nature of your job required you to lock away grief, only for it to accumulate and weigh heavier with each call? Join us for a compelling discussion as we unravel the unique emotional landscape navigated by first responders like EMTs, paramedics, and police officers. These everyday heroes are often thrust into situations that demand stoic professionalism despite th...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Tina Djuretic shares her transformative journey of healing from childhood trauma and toxic relationships through writing her memoir, "Finding My Sovereignty." She discusses the importance of acknowledging generational trauma, finding spiritual guidance, and the healing power of sharing one's story. • Tina’s experience growing up in a strict religiou...

Send us Fan Mail This episode delves into the critical distinctions between coaching and therapy, emphasizing coaching's role in fostering personal growth for professionals. Listeners gain insights on decision-making, overcoming isolation in leadership roles, and the importance of self-care through the coaching process. • Distinction between therapy and coaching is clarified  • Emphasis on th...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when tragedy strikes, and who is there to pick up the pieces when the unimaginable occurs? Meet Krista Gregg, a seasoned professional in crime and trauma scene cleaning, as she unpacks her journey from the healthcare and automotive sectors to meeting the intense emotional demands of cleaning traumatic scenes. With a mission-driven heart and a story that inspires, Kris...

Send us Fan Mail Exploring the critical role of peer support systems for first responders, this episode reveals both the benefits and limitations of such frameworks. Essential discussions include the inherent stigma in seeking help and the necessary cultural shift needed to create a more supportive environment for professionals facing emotional challenges. • Definition of peer support and its rele...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when life shatters your heart and soul, and you're left to pick up the pieces? Join us for a poignant conversation with David Roberts, a retired addictions professional and adjunct psychology professor, who has transformed his personal tragedy into a powerful message of resilience. After losing his daughter Janine to cancer, David's journey through grief off...

Send us Fan Mail The episode unveils an exciting rebranding journey for the podcast, focusing on trauma, grief, and first responder experiences. The host seeks audience feedback and emphasizes enhanced engagement and targeted content in future episodes. • Announcement of the podcast rebranding  • Reasons for focusing on trauma and grief  • Importance of audience engagement and feedback  • Introduc...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how therapy can truly change your life? This episode might offer the insights you've been looking for. We start with a heartfelt apology to Malka Shaw for a previous oversight regarding our important conversation on antisemitism and collective trauma. Following this, we reflect on pivotal contributions from Dennis Sweeney and Andy Kang, who have shared their pow...

Send us Fan Mail Reflecting on a year filled with transformative conversations and invaluable insights, I've had the pleasure of sharing 47 new episodes with 24 incredible new voices on the "Finding Your Way Through Therapy" podcast. Among other voices are recurring guests like Stephanie Simpson and Keith Hanks, whose impactful contributions continue to resonate within our community...

Send us Fan Mail What if your mind held the key to your own healing? Join us for an insightful conversation with Craig Meriwether, a seasoned clinical and medical hypnotherapist, as we explore the transformative world of hypnotherapy. Craig sheds light on his vast experience tackling issues ranging from childhood trauma and PTSD to empowering entrepreneurs with confidence. Our discussion aims to c...

Send us Fan Mail After enduring a traumatic brain injury, Daniel Gospodarek transformed his life and career, becoming a licensed therapist driven by personal experience and professional expertise. Join us for a compelling conversation with Daniel, owner of Revitalized Mental Health, as he shares his profound journey from recovery to becoming a specialist in various therapeutic techniques like Cogn...

Send us Fan Mail Can the holiday season be truly joyous without the shadow of substance temptation? Join me, Steve Bisson, as we explore the compelling differences between sobriety and recovery—two paths often confused but profoundly distinct. I'll guide you through the layered complexities of maintaining a sober lifestyle during the holidays. With gatherings aplenty, learn why the 12-step pr...

Send us Fan Mail Discover the transformative journey of Erica Curry, a former Division 1 athlete who has seamlessly transitioned into a licensed therapist and coach, bringing her unique perspective to the world of mental health. Erica opens up about her passion for Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and how it has become a linchpin in her approach to helping athletes and first responders excel not...

Send us Fan Mail Feeling overwhelmed by the holiday hustle and political chatter? Discover how to maintain your sanity and serenity as we navigate the emotional rollercoaster brought on by this election cycle. This episode is your guide to maintaining balance amidst the chaos, highlighting the emotional impact of political events and the holiday season on our mental well-being. Learn practical tip...

Send us Fan Mail Meg Appelgate, a courageous survivor of the troubled teen industry and co-founder of Unsilenced, joins us to share her profound story of resilience and advocacy. We explore her experiences with institutional abuse and the urgent need for reform to protect vulnerable teenagers. Meg's book, "Surviving and Fighting the Troubled Teen Industry: Becoming Unsilenced," is a...

Send us Fan Mail What if you could break free from the confines of your own mind and live a more embodied and authentic life? Join us as we welcome back the insightful Stephanie Simpson, who expertly bridges the worlds of coaching and therapy. This episode promises to explore the art of creating safe spaces for self-discovery while helping you reconnect with your core values. From young profession...

Send us Fan Mail Join me in a transformative conversation with Kyle Goodknight, a veteran healthcare professional with over three decades of experience as a respiratory therapist and paramedic. We tackle the critical issues of stress and burnout that first responders face, shedding light on the vital role mental health support plays in sustaining their demanding careers. Kyle opens up about his pe...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the secrets to building a fearless future for your children with our inspiring guest, Stefani Cohen. A true authority in family dynamics and stress-positive parenting, Stefani shares her decades of wisdom and insight into overcoming children's fear of dogs. Drawing from her book, "Overcoming Your Child's Fear of Dogs," she unveils groundbreaking strategi...

Send us Fan Mail What if you could transform your life by simply changing the way you breathe? Join us for a compelling conversation with Abbie Westgate, a former UK police sergeant who left behind the high-stress world of law enforcement to embrace the healing power of somatic breathwork. Abbie courageously shares her journey through stress, burnout, and trauma, leading to a serious illness that...