Hello It's Coco!

Summary In this introductory episode of Project Connection, therapist Courtney Rault shares her journey and the inspiration behind the podcast. She emphasizes the importance of connection in our lives, drawing from her personal experiences and professional background. The podcast aims to explore the art of connection through storytelling, psychology, and personal insights, encouraging listeners to deepen their relationships and understand the power of human connection. "Connection isn't just for extroverts." "Connection is a life force." "I want to be a master connector."   Courtney Plank Rault, LCSW, is a relationship expert, therapist, and lifelong connector dedicated to helping people build deeper, more meaningful connections in every aspect of life. After earning a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work and Therapy from Columbia University and receiving clinical training at New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center, Courtney founded Coco Plank Therapy—a practice specializing in talk therapy for individuals and couples. With a background in finance and Spanish from UC Irvine and years working in finance in San Francisco and New York City, Courtney discovered her true calling in psychotherapy and human connection. As the clinical director of Coco Plank Therapy, Courtney and her team use Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Buddhist Psychology, and Strengths-Based Practices to empower clients to unearth unhelpful patterns and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. With over a decade of experience in substance use recovery and mental wellness, Courtney has seen firsthand the profound impact of both connection and disconnection. She understands that when connection is missing—whether in relationships, communities, or within ourselves—the effects can be deeply painful, leading to loneliness, addiction, anxiety, and cycles of unhealthy behavior. But she also believes that with awareness, courage, and the right tools, healing and reconnection are always possible.