Clinically Ever After

48: Join Ariel and Stef with special guest Shaelene, somatic DBT therapist and creator of Clinically Ever After, a Disney-based conference for mental health professionals. What started as a “what if” became a “what is.” This sold-out event brought clinicians and educators together at Walt Disney World, where they found community and reconnected with themselves. From navigating Disney logistics to creating a space that actually feels good to be in, this episode explores burnout, authenticity, and play in professional spaces. Sometimes you wish upon a star. Other times, you remember you are one. Summary 00:00 Introductions and return from hiatus 01:35 What Clinically Ever After is and how it started 04:48 Behind the scenes of hosting at Disney 08:44 Logistics, costs, and figuring things out in real time 12:07 Personal Disney experiences and planning with familiarity 15:09 Designing a conference that feels fun and welcoming 19:36 Presentations, playfulness, and audience engagement 20:36 Attendee reactions and emotional impact 21:31 Creating a relaxed and open professional space 23:03 Pre-event community building and connection 23:58 Shared fandom as an entry point for relationships 26:13 Authenticity and showing up as yourself in professional settings 28:21 Group dynamics and navigating feelings of exclusion 31:37 Inclusivity across roles and disciplines 33:25 Burnout and the need for support in helping professions 34:52 Bonding through joy instead of stress 37:36 Creativity and play as ways to restore energy 42:26 What’s next: expanding the conference and new theme 47:20 Disney snacks and park culture differences 47:58 Closing thoughts and where to connect Media/Characters Mentioned Disney / Walt Disney World Mickey Mouse EPCOT The Little Mermaid Bath & Body Works Disney Princess Collection Disneyland vs. Disney World Topics/Themes Mentioned Burnout in clinicians and educators Community and belonging in professional spaces Authenticity in therapy and teaching Play and creativity as part of clinical work Neurodivergence and inclusive environments Designing engaging conferences Imposter syndrome and leadership Fandom as connection and identity Professional vulnerability Navigating large systems like Disney Sensory and environmental considerations Cross-disciplinary collaboration Rest, joy, and sustainable work Links & Resources Guest Links: Shaelene: @rebelmente/ Clinically Ever After: https://clinicallyeverafter.com Host & Show Links: Instagram: @HappiestPodGT Facebook: @HappiestPodGT Ariel on IG: @airyell3000 Geek Therapy Links: Website: www.geektherapy.org GT IG: @GeekTherapy GT Facebook: @GeekTherapy GT Facebook Group: @GeekTherapyCommunity GT YouTube: @GeekTherapy GT Discord: geektherapy.com/discord GT Forum: forum.geektherapy.com Geek Therapy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that advocates for the effective and meaningful use of popular media in therapeutic, educational, and community practice.