The Convenient Counselor

You might be surprised during this episode as we unpack the top three myths of people-pleasing...the ones that feel like virtues but cost you more than you realize. Whether you've been carrying this pattern for years or you're just starting to notice it, this conversation will help you name what's really going on and take one step toward something freer! Website: brianaleach.com IG...

YES THIS IS THE CORRECT PODCAST! Don't be confused - this podcast was first named "Grace in Progress," so that's what you will hear in this throwback episode!! The #2 most downloaded episode of this podcast, I thought revisiting this mindfulness tool would be helpful during a busy summer season! Learn and start to use a tool I use EVERY. DAY. (5,5,5) to help you with reacting v...

The reason summer can feel hard for parents (and anyone who typically has a school schedule) has nothing to do with your attitude and everything to do with your nervous system. School-year structure was quietly keeping you regulated...and then summer yanked it away! New episode breaking down what creative self-care actually looks like when your normal tools aren't available. 🎙️ #selfcare #sum...

Have you ever minimized your own struggle because it didn't feel "bad enough" to deserve support? Or found yourself silently suffering through something you prayed for — because how could you complain about a blessing? That's "struggle shame." And in this episode, we're learning what it costs and what to do once you've identified it in your life - 4 easy ste...

Whimsy isn't an aesthetic — it's a practice. And if you've ever thought "I'm just not that kind of person," this episode is for you. We're talking about why choosing delight is harder than it sounds, what the research actually says about play and resilience, and three small ways to start. You don't have to earn the right to enjoy your life! Free printable -...

YES THIS IS THE CORRECT PODCAST! Don't be confused - this podcast was first named "Grace in Progress," so that's what you will hear in this throwback episode!! I am traveling this week, so I thought I would share the MOST downloaded episode of all time...about a term I call "spiritual dismissal."  This resonated with listeners over 100 episodes ago, and I thought it m...

You've told the story. Multiple times, to multiple people. And yet...you still feel the same. Sound familiar? In this episode, Briana explores why you might be stuck in an emotional loop, and explains the difference between venting and processing. Short, practical, and yes - slightly calling you out. (In the best way, of course!)

Ever feel sad and have absolutely no idea what you actually want? Same. That's exactly why this episode exists. Today we're building a dopamine menu — a personalized, pre-made list of activities designed to give your brain a healthy boost when you're running low. Think of it like a restaurant menu for your nervous system, ready to go before the hard days hit. We're talking abou...

Most of us were never taught what a healthy relationship actually looks like — we just learned from the ones we were in. In this episode, Briana breaks down the top 5 indicators of an emotionally healthy relationship, as well as what research and scripture have to say about the matter! Whether you're evaluating a romantic relationship, a friendship, or even a family dynamic — this one's...

Cute group pic! Only missing one person...ME. Ugh. Feeling left out of something is an awful feeling. But staying left out? That's a choice. Listen in to hear how Briana describes the difference, and offers three questions to ask yourself in those moments of feeling excluded. Spoiler: you have more power than you realize!

You know you need to change (big or small), yet we resist it...why? In this episode, learn three of the main reasons we tend to "hit the brakes" when we know something needs to change.

How well do you know yourself? Self-awareness is essential to reaching your full potential, and in this episode you will learn: - the two types of self-awareness - self-awareness research from social psychology - 3 practices to increase your self-awareness Think we can say that word any more? Go ahead and listen, then get to practicing!

It's been a minute...or maybe three years! ;) In this "return to the podcast" episode, Briana explains why now was time to re-engage with new episodes, as well as the important lessons learned during an extended hiatus. Also learn how the "power of the pause" might apply to your life as well, and upcoming episode topics are previewed as well!

Why does mental health matter? Why start a podcast about it? Learn more about the answers to these questions as well as an update on the podcast moving forward.

Have you ever imagined your life as an object? Visualization is really important in therapy, because it allows us to tap into a side of our brain that can process emotions and situations differently than just with logic. Learn more about this tool and about what your boat might look like in this episode!

Need a pep talk today? This quick episode is one you can file away for those days where you just need someone to cheer you on for a second, help you be thankful, and feel your feelings. You've got this!

You've named the fear, now what? In this episode, learn the two follow up questions that are needed after naming a fear - they can help you understand where the fear comes from, and steps to potentially take to avoid or cope with it!

What are you afraid of? Typically when we hear this question we might only think of a couple responses - in my case, going to the dentist and alligators. But in everyday situations, there can be "fears" that drive or motivate our behaviors. Learn more about how to name your fears in this episode, and come back next week for what to do once you've named that fear!

It's hard to make new friends. Even harder when you lead a busy life! But in this episode, learn 5 tips for pursuing new friendships in a healthy way!

Join in on the 6th round of "Questions for a Counselor" in this episode, which covers the following questions: * Any advice on a child who explodes when he can’t figure out something? Homework, assembling a toy, etc…it’s unpredictable and so hard! * What do I do when I just feel stuck? Like I have no motivation and don’t know what to do next. Previous Episode referenced: "What to do...

In the stress of daily life, do you have "pockets of peace?" These brief moments can help the dust settle and for you to sometimes literally catch your breath! Learn more about this wellness practice in Episode 118.

"Fortune Telling" is a therapy term used for one of the most common cognitive distortions (unhealthy way of thinking). Learn more about the definition, what qualifies as fortune telling, and ways to combat it if this is something you struggle with regularly!

Are efficiency and effectiveness the same thing? Sometimes we think they are, but unfortunately that's not always the case! In this episode, we dive into these two concepts with real-life examples, so that you can see what will be the best course of action in your life!

We all know that rules are meant to keep us safe, and boundaries can be protective...but what about certain "lines" in your life that you may not know their origin? Did someone "draw" in your life and you've never acknowledged it? In this episode, we explore this common question I ask in therapy, and walk through examples that might apply in your situation. Past episode re...

Back from summer break, barely meeting the personal August "deadline" in my mind...better late than never! :)  In this episode, learn about four areas where this common phrase might need some evaluation: - Apologies - Course correcting in parenting - Self-Care - Pursuing a paused dream Mentions in the episode: Episode 10/11: Rethinking Self-Care Episode 52: Unconventional Self-Care Episo...