Episode 25: Attachment, DBR, and Clinical Insight

In this episode of the Unmasked Therapist Podcast, ⁠Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT⁠, continues her conversation with Michelle Vaughn, LPC—practice owner of Truth and Grace Counseling in Arizona—for part two of this two-part series.Picking up where they left off, Kaitlyn and Michelle dive deeper into Michelle’s clinical work, with a focus on trauma and the modalities that shape her approach. Michelle shares how working from an attachment-focused lens informs her understanding of clients, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond presenting symptoms to uncover the deeper roots of distress.The conversation explores the integration of EMDR and Michelle’s growing use of Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), a newer trauma modality that works at a lower level of brain processing. Michelle explains how DBR can be especially helpful for clients with complex trauma or dissociative tendencies, offering a slower, more accessible way to process experiences without becoming overwhelmed.As the episode continues, the discussion shifts into the importance of consultation and community in clinical work. Kaitlyn and Michelle highlight how seeking support from other clinicians can expand perspective, improve client care, and introduce therapists to new approaches they may not have otherwise considered.The final portion of the conversation focuses on Michelle’s journey as a supervisor and private practice owner. She shares insights on building a practice rooted in autonomy, flexibility, and client-centered values, while also encouraging early career clinicians to think intentionally about their own needs, boundaries, and long-term sustainability in the field.Grounded in both clinical insight and real-world experience, this episode offers a thoughtful look at trauma work, professional growth, and what it means to show up authentically—not just for clients, but for yourself as a therapist.In this episode, we discuss:• Using an attachment-focused lens in trauma work• How EMDR and Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) are used in practice• Working with complex trauma and dissociation• The importance of consultation and building a professional network• Lessons from supervision and transitioning into private practice• Balancing clinician needs with client careThis is part two of a two-part conversation. Be sure to check out last week’s episode for the beginning of this discussion.Connect with us:Supervision: ⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapistEmail: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy.Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction.#TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapistConversations