Kristina Scaglione: Thrive with Cate Stillman Podcast

About this episode: In this illuminating conversation, Cate Stillman sits down with Kristina Scaglione, LCSW-R, founder of Root & Rise Clinical Specialists, to explore the rise of trauma-informed therapy, the layers of modern trauma, and how holistic healing integrates mind, body, and spirit. Kristina shares her journey from volunteering with a New York non-profit serving the homeless to establishing a multi-disciplinary practice that blends traditional therapy with complementary modalities like nutrition, Reiki, hormone support, and hypnosis. Together, they unpack why "trauma recovery" is becoming mainstream, how systemic factors like consumer culture and isolation contribute to emotional distress, and why true healing requires more than talk therapy. A deeply personal part of the discussion centers on Kristina's recovery from a vaccine injury, her experience of being dismissed by the medical system, and how that inspired the creation of the Limitless partnership—a collaborative network of clinicians bridging Eastern and Western medicine to support complex health conditions such as long-haul COVID. Key Takeaways: 💫 Trauma's Nuance and Reach: Not everyone is "traumatized," but most experience trauma at varying levels. Subtle forms of trauma often stem from cultural, systemic, and relational influences. 🌿 Healing is Holistic and Integrated: Sustainable healing blends mental, physical, and spiritual modalities. The Root & Rise + Limitless model goes beyond talk therapy to include energetic and lifestyle support. 🧠 Habits Build Healing: Long-term progress depends on consistent daily habits. Kristina emphasizes "habit stacking" to make new wellness practices easier to sustain. 🧍 Mindful Navigation of Dysregulation: Grounding and breathwork should be practiced regularly—like a seatbelt—so they're instinctive in times of stress. 📱 Technology's Double-Edged Sword: While social media raises awareness, it can also fuel self-diagnosis and disconnection. Human interaction remains essential for emotional regulation. 🤖 AI vs. Human Connection: AI can support but never replace the deep empathy, rapport, and non-judgmental space that define effective therapy. 💰 Self-Pay and Autonomy: Paying privately ensures privacy, freedom from insurance limitations, and customized care rooted in trust and collaboration. 🌸 Iatrogenic Trauma and Validation: Kristina's healing journey underscores the importance of medical openness, validation, and the integration of multiple healing systems. 🔗 Resources: 🌐 Root & Rise Clinical Specialists → https://rootandrisecs.com 🌐Limitless Integrative Wellness | Mind Spa → https://limitlessintegrativewellness.com 🌐 Yogahealer Website → https://www.yogahealer.com 👩‍💼 About Cate Stillman: Cate Stillman is an Ayurvedic practitioner, behavior change expert, and founder of Yogahealer and Club Thrive. For over 20 years, she has guided wellness professionals and conscious seekers to unlock deep healing, body intelligence, and aligned leadership. Author of: 📗 Primal Habits → https://amzn.to/3OvfPOx 📘 Uninflamed → https://amzn.to/3UUBgJ2 📙 Body Thrive → https://amzn.to/3udNFR0 📕 Master of You → https://amzn.to/3OlfoGn 🎧 Tune in and reflect: What daily habit or grounding practice could help you reconnect to your body and regulate your nervous system today?