Choosing Help with Tracy Stecker, PhD

Stigma keeps too many people from getting the mental health support they need.In this episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stacker breaks down why stigma is one of the most powerful barriers to treatment—especially for veterans, families, and those living with PTSD or substance use challenges.Through real stories, cultural examples, and practical guidance, this episode offers hope and tools for anyone trying to support a loved one who says, “I don’t want anyone to know.”Because when we choose help, we choose life.

In this episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by psychologist and researcher Dr. Jennifer M. Gómez for a profound conversation about Cultural Betrayal Trauma—a form of trauma that occurs when harm is committed within one’s own marginalized community under conditions of systemic inequality.Dr. Gómez shares how cultural betrayal adds layers of silence, identity conflict, and fear to already devastating experiences, and why many survivors struggle to seek help when systems don’t feel safe. Together, they explore symptoms such as dissociation, depression, and shame, as well as pathways to healing that include—but are not limited to—therapy.From radical healing frameworks and creative expression to boundary‑setting within families and cultivating hope, this episode offers permission, validation, and possibility for anyone navigating trauma.Choosing Help is about breaking stigma and opening doors to understanding—because when we choose help, we choose life.📖 Learn more about Dr. Gómez’s work and book:🌐Website: https://jmgomez.org/cultural-betrayal-trauma-theory/📁 Article: https://theconversation.com/the-unique-harm-of-sexual-abuse-in-the-black-community-114948📹Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zemMIJuv0Uo

What do you do when someone you love needs help — but doesn’t want it?In this episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker leads a heartfelt roundtable discussion with a group of women about how they talk to a loved one who may be struggling and resisting support. Together, they explore empathy, timing, boundaries, enabling, stigma, faith, and the fear of “saying the wrong thing.”Dr. Stecker shares her four go’s and four no‑go’s for having these emotionally charged conversations and offers practical, compassionate guidance for helping without fixing.This episode is for helpers, parents, friends, partners, and anyone trying to navigate hard conversations with love, courage, and respect.Because when we choose help, we choose life.

In this episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Angela Geraci of the Geraci Zoo, a wildlife rehabilitator who spends her days—and nights—caring for injured, orphaned, and non‑releasable wildlife.Angela shares what it’s really like to be a helper who rarely gets a break, including compassion fatigue, grief, public criticism, and the challenge of knowing when to hold on and when to let go. This episode is a powerful reminder that caregivers need care too—and that choosing help takes courage.

In this insightful episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Drs. Ashrafiune and Allan to explore the rising political anxiety many of us face today. They unpack the polarized “team A vs. team B” mentality fueling fear and division, and introduce practical strategies to manage anxiety and engage in healthier, more productive political conversations.Key Topics Covered:Understanding Political Anxiety: How extreme “all-or-nothing” thinking about opposing political sides creates fear, stress, and emotional distress.Managing Anxiety: Expert advice from Dr. Allen on calming political fears and reframing anxious thoughts.Breaking the Cycle: Discussion on how media and social platforms amplify polarization and reduce nuance.Approaching Political Conversations: Four essential principles — empathy, respect, authenticity, and active listening — to foster meaningful dialogue.Testing Your Assumptions: Encouragement to challenge your own beliefs and fears by having open conversations with friends and family, rather than avoiding them.When and How to Engage: Insights on recognizing the right time and person for political discussions, and when it’s okay to step back.Building Common Ground: Tips on finding shared values and gently persuading others without confrontation.Whether you’re dreading holiday gatherings or simply want to reduce political tension in your life, this episode offers compassionate, science-based guidance on how to stay connected across divides and lower your stress.Tune in to learn how to transform challenging political conversations into opportunities for understanding and connection. Visit choosinghelp.com for more resources.

In this heartfelt episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with caregivers Ann Greenwald, Rebecca Horvath, and Kelly Winter for an honest, intimate conversation about the emotional reality of caregiving. Together, they explore the overwhelm that comes with constant responsibility, the guilt that lingers even when you’re doing everything you can, the fear that accompanies serious illness, and the complicated shift in family roles that caregiving brings.Throughout their discussion, the group opens up about burnout, resentment, and the exhausting feeling of trying to do it all. They reflect on the loneliness many caregivers experience, especially when support systems are limited or nonexistent. Yet woven through these stories are powerful insights on what it truly means to “help the helper.” The conversation dives into the importance of creating a plan before crisis strikes, allowing caregivers to feel more grounded when situations escalate. They also discuss the role of palliative care—what it really is, how it differs from hospice, and why it can be an incredible source of comfort and guidance for both patients and families.The episode highlights the necessity of finding personal coping tools, carving out small moments for breath and reflection, and leaning into whatever tribe of support you can gather. It also explores the idea that caregiving, at its core, is an act of profound love and connection. Even in the middle of chaos, moments of joy—tiny, brief, unexpected—have the power to soften stress and bring the nervous system back into balance.Whether you're caring for a parent, partner, friend, or client, this conversation offers validation, compassion, and a reminder that you don’t have to navigate it alone. It’s an episode filled with honesty, guidance, and hope for anyone carrying the responsibility of caring for someone they love.

This episode of the Choosing Help Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of Stoicism as both an ancient philosophy and a practical psychological tool. Hosted by Tracy Stecker, PhD and featuring guest Kortney Yasenka, LCMHC the discussion highlights Stoicism’s relevance to mental health, trauma recovery, and everyday challenges, emphasizing personal empowerment through focusing on controllable aspects of life and cultivating virtues. Practical strategies like the Stoic pause and negative visualization provide actionable methods to integrate Stoic principles. The dialogue also underscores the importance of self-reflection and ethical living as foundations for resilience and well-being. Through accessible resources and relatable examples, Stoicism emerges as a valuable framework for navigating modern life’s complexities with wisdom and grace.For more on Tracy Stecker, PhD, please visit www.choosinghelp.com.For more on Kortney Yasenka, LCMHC and Stoicism, visit www.stoicmoments.com.

In this insightful episode of the Choosing Help podcast, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Amanda Raines to explore the often overlooked topic of "safety aids"—behaviors and cognitive strategies people use to reduce anxiety in the moment but that can paradoxically increase anxiety over time. From everyday examples like drinking alcohol or a child’s security blanket to more complex behaviors such as avoidance and mental distractions, they break down how these safety aids develop, why they persist, and how they can become barriers to true healing. The conversation delves into how to identify when safety aids become problematic, the impact on daily functioning, and practical steps to gradually reduce reliance on them through behavioral experiments and cognitive reframing. Real-world stories, including personal experiences and clinical cases, illustrate the challenges and successes in overcoming safety aids. Whether you struggle with anxiety yourself or support someone who does, this episode offers compassionate, expert guidance on confronting fear, breaking cycles of avoidance, and fostering courage to choose help and embrace life. Resources for further support are also shared. Tune in for a powerful discussion that demystifies anxiety management and empowers listeners to reclaim control over their fears.

Why are mental health treatment rates lower in racial and ethnic minority groups, and how can we bridge the gap? In this episode, Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with clinical psychologist and help-seeking expert Dr. Taylor Rodriguez to dismantle the barriers facing minoritized communities. From the "one-size-fits-all" approach of traditional therapy to the cultural value of "staying strong," they explore why many feel formal care "isn't for them." Discover a wealth of specialized resources—including Therapy for Black Girls and Therapy for Latinx—designed to help you find a provider who truly understands your lived experience. Remember: choosing help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a strategic step toward growth.

Many people who clearly struggle with mental health or substance use still say, “I don’t need help.” In this conversation, Dr. Tracy Stecker and longtime teacher/prison educator Ronald Pendley unpack what “I’m good” can really mean—mistrust, fear, learned survival strategies—and how honest, empathetic, non‑judgmental conversations can open the door to support. You’ll hear stories from classrooms and prisons, why boundaries matter, and how harm‑reduction can be a compassionate first step. We close with a powerful metaphor: you don’t have to hold the ball alone—build your team. Learn more and find resources at choosinghelp.com.

In this impactful episode of the Choosing Help podcast, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Tedra Cobb and Dr. Lisham Ashrafioun to explore the pervasive stigma surrounding substance use disorders and addiction. Through heartfelt stories—including Dr. Stecker’s personal account of her elderly mother’s struggle with pain management and addiction—this conversation sheds light on how stigma complicates recognizing addiction and seeking help. The episode highlights the Community Conversations program, a transformative workshop designed to break down stigma through honest dialogue, lived experiences, and educational activities that engage diverse community members. Listeners gain insight into how stigma arises from perceptions, biases, and prejudices, and learn about strategies to counteract these barriers. The episode also emphasizes the importance of understanding addiction as a brain disease, the role of medication-assisted treatment, and the critical need for compassionate, community-based support systems. Ultimately, this episode inspires hope by affirming that recovery is possible and ongoing, encouraging listeners to join a compassionate community that fosters courage, connection, and healing.

In this insightful episode of the Choosing Help podcast, Dr. Tracy Stecker is joined by Tyler Webb, a therapist and social worker specializing in substance use disorder treatment. Together, they explore the profound impact addiction has on relationships, examining how substance use can create patterns of isolation, shame, and behavioral changes that strain connections between loved ones. They discuss the subtle signs that a relationship may be deteriorating, the emotional toll on both the person struggling with addiction and their family or friends, and the complex dynamics of enabling versus supporting recovery. Tyler and Dr. Stecker emphasize the crucial role of honest communication, social connection, and community support—such as 12-step programs—in healing and rebuilding relationships damaged by addiction. This episode offers compassionate guidance for those affected by substance use disorders, whether as individuals or loved ones, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, setting boundaries, and seeking help to foster healthier, more supportive relationships.

In this episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker speaks with Michael Dennis—pastor, storyteller, comedian, and longtime Austin community leader—about the deep connections between spirituality, mental health, and the search for meaning.Drawing from his 25 years in ministry, personal experiences with his mother’s schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s, and his work with people facing depression, loneliness, and addiction, Michael explores what it means to care for the soul in a culture that often neglects it. Together, he and Dr. Stecker discuss:How spirituality offers a framework for purpose, connection, and emotional resilienceWhy so many people today feel disconnected—from themselves, others, and their place in the worldThe importance of starting small when mental health feels overwhelmingHealthy boundaries when supporting loved ones with addiction or severe mental illnessThe unique role of faith communities and family support when seeking helpWhy community, humor, and shared humanity can break through isolation and ruminationWarm, grounded, and honest, this conversation invites listeners to consider their own spiritual well‑being and reminds us that we don’t need to navigate pain, questions, or healing alone.

In this powerful and compassionate episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Jay Baffa for an honest conversation about suicidal thoughts—how common they actually are, what drives them, and, most importantly, how people can find help and hope.Together they break down the stigma around talking about suicide, explore the emotional pain that often underlies these thoughts, and discuss why reaching out—whether to a loved one, a professional, or even a stranger—can be the first life‑saving step.Dr. Baffa explains the “funnel” of suicide risk, the importance of understanding our emotions as information, and how problem‑solving, connection, and conversation can reduce both distress and risk.They also address what family members and friends can do when they’re worried about someone they care about, including how to approach difficult conversations with compassion rather than judgment. This episode emphasizes that suicidal thoughts do not last forever, that mental health waxes and wanes like any other health condition, and that support is available—no matter where you are in the journey.If you or someone you care about is struggling, please know: you are not alone, and help is available.

Welcome to this episode of the Choosing Help podcast with Dr. Tracy Stecker and Dr. Lisham Ashrafioun, where we dive deep into the art of active listening—an essential skill for meaningful connection, especially in emotionally charged or difficult conversations. Although listening may seem simple because we do it every day, being a truly effective listener requires intentional effort and practice.In this episode, we break down the three critical steps of active listening that engage three different “organs” to ensure you truly hear and understand the other person:Use Your Ears: The first step is to genuinely hear the words being spoken without interrupting or jumping to conclusions. This means focusing your attention fully on the speaker and tuning out distractions.Use Your Brain: Next, process the information thoughtfully. Reflect on what the person is saying, consider their emotions and underlying messages, and avoid immediately reacting with your own judgments or assumptions.Use Your Mouth: Finally, communicate back what you heard by paraphrasing, checking for clarity, and asking gentle questions. This step slows down the conversation, confirms understanding, and invites the speaker to elaborate or correct if needed.The hosts share real-world examples, such as a child refusing to go to school or a veteran struggling with PTSD, illustrating how active listening can open pathways for empathy, reduce conflict, and support healing. They emphasize the importance of resisting the urge to respond with advice or solutions too quickly and instead offering space for the speaker to process their feelings.Tune in to learn how slowing down, engaging all three steps, and responding thoughtfully can transform your conversations and relationships. Whether you’re supporting a loved one or navigating tough discussions, mastering active listening powers you to connect with compassion and courage.Join us to explore how choosing to truly listen can change everything, because when we choose help, we choose life. For additional resources, visit choosinghelp.com.

Hosted by Dr. Tracy Stecker, Choosing Help is a podcast about courage, connection, and the transformative power of asking for support. Through candid conversations, expert insights, and real-world stories, we break down stigma and open doors to understanding—because when we choose help, we choose life.In this episode, Dr. Stecker welcomes retired Army Colonel and psychiatrist Dr. Charles Hoge, author of Once a Warrior, Always a Warrior. Together, they tackle one of the most pressing issues in mental health: why military service members and veterans often struggle to seek help. Despite their resilience and strength, many face barriers rooted in stigma, fear of career impact, and a deeply ingrained sense of self-reliance.What you’ll discover in this episode:The truth behind stereotypes: Why common misconceptions about veterans—such as being “broken” or joining the military due to lack of options—are wrong.The hidden costs of service: How combat experiences and high-risk roles impact mental health long after deployment.Stigma and self-reliance: Why these powerful forces keep many from accessing care, even when they know they need it.Barriers to treatment: From fear of losing security clearance to concerns about being judged, we explore what really prevents help-seeking.Dropout dilemma: Why many who start therapy don’t stay—and what can be done to keep them engaged.Options beyond trauma-focused therapy: Learn about alternative approaches, including supportive therapy, interpersonal therapy, and even transcendental meditation.Family matters: Practical advice for loved ones who want to help without losing themselves in the process.Dr. Hoge draws on decades of experience, including leading mental health research during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He shares actionable strategies for clinicians and families, emphasizing flexibility, choice, and collaboration in treatment. You’ll hear why finding the right therapist matters, why slowing down is okay, and how simple tools—like regulating your heartbeat during anxiety—can make a big difference.This conversation is for anyone navigating mental health challenges, supporting a veteran, or simply curious about how we can create a culture of compassion and courage. If you’ve ever wondered, “What happens when I ask for help?”—this episode is for you.Join our community committed to understanding and healing. Explore resources at choosinghelp.com, subscribe for future episodes, and share this conversation with someone who needs to hear it. Because when we choose help, we choose life.

In this episode, Dr. Tracy Stecker and Dr. Nicholas Allen dive deep into the science of anxiety and its many forms. They unpack the concept of anxiety sensitivity—a heightened fear of bodily sensations—and explore how it drives avoidance behaviors that disrupt daily life. Dr. Allen shares evidence-based treatments, including exercise programs and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques like interoceptive exposure, which help individuals confront and manage feared sensations.The conversation also tackles social anxiety and its unique challenges, from fear of judgment to intolerance of uncertainty. Learn how CBT strategies, gradual exposure, and cognitive reframing can empower individuals to reduce anxiety sensitivity, face uncertainty, and reclaim their lives. Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, or someone seeking practical tools for anxiety, this episode offers insights grounded in science and hope.

Chronic pain affects nearly 20% of adults in the U.S., but its impact goes far beyond physical discomfort. In this episode of Choosing Help, Dr. Tracy Stecker sits down with Dr. Lisham Ashrafioun to explore the powerful—and often overlooked—connection between chronic pain and social disconnection. Together, they unpack how loneliness and isolation influence brain chemistry, worsen health outcomes, and increase risks for depression and even suicide.You’ll learn why psychosocial interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are essential, how the biopsychosocial model is changing pain management, and practical strategies to help people reclaim their lives. Whether you’re living with chronic pain, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the science behind resilience, this conversation offers hope, insight, and actionable steps.Tune in and discover why choosing help is one of the most powerful decisions you can make.