Let's Sit With This

This month on The Therapist's Bookshelf, I'm rereading Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb — and honestly, I loved it just as much the second time around. Cried in the same spots. Laughed out loud in the same spots. That's just good writing.Gottlieb is a therapist who ends up in therapy herself, and the book follows both her work with her clients and her own experience sitting in the client chair. The dual narrative structure is unlike anything I've read, and the way she makes the therapeutic relationship feel human and real — without dramatizing it or making it a sales pitch — is something I think everyone needs to experience.In this episode I share what stood out to me as both a therapist and a client, why the relationship with your therapist matters more than most people realize, and why I wish everyone on this planet would read this book.If you've been on the fence — get off the fence, friend.This episode pairs with a personal episode I recorded about my own therapy journey — already out now, go listen.Next month we're reading The New Rules of Marriage by Terrence Real — and we'll have a special guest joining me for that episode. Go grab your copy.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

I'm a therapist. I know how this is supposed to work. And I still had to learn every hard lesson myself — sitting in that chair as a client, just like everyone else does.This episode is personal. Inspired by this month's Therapist's Bookshelf book, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb, I'm sharing my own therapy journey — the real one. Five therapists over 13 years. The ones that helped, the ones that didn't, the year I spent "waiting" for the perfect therapist (spoiler: that was avoidance), and the deep trauma work that has changed my life.If you've tried therapy and quit, or you've been putting it off — this one is for you. The hard parts of the therapy journey are usually the signs it's working.If this episode resonated, leaving a review means the world and helps more people find this space.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

This month on The Therapist's Bookshelf, I'm reading Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl — and it's one of those books that's genuinely hard to summarize because the message hits differently depending on where you are in your own life.Viktor Frankl was an Austrian psychiatrist who survived Nazi concentration camps and came out the other side more convinced than ever about the human capacity to find meaning — even in suffering. In this episode I share what stood out to me as a therapist, why this book matters for anyone doing healing work, and how the question of "why did this happen to me" can slowly shift into something more livable.This is not a light read. But it might be exactly what you need.Next month we're reading Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb — get your copy and read along.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Hey friends!For February on The Therapist’s Bookshelf, we read How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis — a compassionate, trauma-informed take on cleaning, organizing, and care tasks.On the surface, this book is about keeping house. But underneath that, it’s about shame, expectations, and the invisible standards we carry about what our homes — and our lives — “should” look like.In this episode, I share:Why the format of this book works so well for neurodivergent readersWhat stood out to me about the shame lens woven throughoutHow trauma-informed principles change the way we approach care tasksWho this book is most helpful for (and why)If you’ve ever felt like you’re “failing” at keeping up with your space — or you’ve struggled to implement organizing systems that just don’t stick — this conversation is for you.For March, we’ll be reading Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, a powerful reflection on survival, suffering, and purpose. Pull up a chair. Let’s sit with this — and read it together. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

There’s a side of depression that doesn’t get talked about enough.The side where life just… stops.Where showering feels impossible.Where the dishes pile up.Where you stop responding to texts.Where shame gets louder than anything else.In this episode, we talk about severe depression through a nervous system lens — what it looks like when you move into a prolonged freeze state, why it can happen even after life circumstances improve, and how shame keeps the cycle going.Most importantly, we talk about how to gently begin climbing out.Not with pressure.Not with perfection.But with small, steady steps that rebuild dignity and momentum.If you’ve ever felt ashamed of how far things have gotten — this episode is for you.If You Need Immediate Support: If you are in the U.S. and experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can also chat via https://988lifeline.org If you are outside the U.S., please contact your local crisis service or emergency number. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Hey strangers — I’ve missed you.This episode is a little different. It’s mid-February, life has been full (sickness, weather chaos, school closures, work), and I’m recording this with 18 minutes before my next client. So we’re embracing real life over polished perfection.Today I’m finally sharing thoughts on January’s Therapist’s Bookshelf pick: Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg. This one pushed me a bit outside my usual comfort zone, and I’m reflecting on what stood out, what felt helpful, and why tiny, sustainable change matters more than dramatic overhauls.We talk about:Why small steps are often the most powerful onesThe importance of curiosity instead of shame when change doesn’t stickLetting go of all-or-nothing thinkingGiving yourself permission to adjust when something isn’t a fitThis episode is less of a formal book review and more of an honest conversation about growth, habits, and what it looks like to keep showing up — even when you feel behind.February’s book is How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis, and I’m really looking forward to diving into that one next.If you feel like you don’t have it all together right now, you’re not alone.Pull up a chair. Let’s sit with this together.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Have you ever wondered what books mental health professionals actually read to help them in their work with clients?Not the clinical or theoretical ones — but the books you could actually pick up, read, and find helpful.Well you're in luck because I'm starting a new monthly series I’ll be doing this year called The Therapist’s Bookshelf.Each month, I’ll read one book and then come on here to talk about it — what stood out to me, what challenged me, what I loved, what I didn’t love, and how I think about the ideas as both a therapist and a human. Most of these books are new to me, and a couple are ones I’m revisiting because they mattered that much.Think of it like a laid-back book club — a space to talk honestly about ideas that help us understand ourselves, our relationships, and the hard parts of being human.The books in this series touch on things like change, emotions, trauma, relationships, boundaries, habits, and meaning. Some are practical. Some are deeper. I’ve intentionally chosen a mix, knowing that different books will resonate with different people.You’re welcome to read along each month — or not. You can simply listen to the episodes as they come out and take what’s helpful. Physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks are all welcome here.The Therapist’s Bookshelf — Full Reading ListHere is the complete reading list for the series, in the order we’ll be moving through it:January: Tiny Habits — BJ FoggFebruary: How to Keep House While Drowning — KC DavisMarch: Man’s Search for Meaning — Viktor FranklApril: Maybe You Should Talk to Someone — Lori GottliebMay: Set Boundaries, Find Peace — Nedra Glover TawwabJune: The New Rules of Marriage — Terrence RealJuly: Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents — Lindsay C. GibsonAugust: Running on Empty — Jonice WebbSeptember: The Gifts of Imperfection — Brené BrownOctober: Atlas of the Heart — Brené BrownNovember: Walking the Tiger — Peter LevineDecember: No Bad Parts — Richard SchwartzAll of the books are listed here so you can follow along at your own pace — or simply use the episodes to decide which ones might be worth picking up.If you’re enjoying the show, make sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes.Let's get reading!Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

January has a way of turning change into pressure, noise, and unrealistic expectations. Today I’m joined by my friend and colleague Megan Secrest, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Gift of Grit Counseling. Megan brings such a grounded, real-life approach to change—especially when it comes to health goals, identity shifts, and the emotional side of starting over. In this episode, we talk about New Year’s resolutions—but not in the usual pressure-filled way. We get into why resolutions often fall apart, how your nervous system plays a role, and how to set goals that actually fit your real life and energy. If you’re someone who’s tried to “get it together” every January… this one’s for you. We talk about: Why most resolutions fall apart (and it’s not because you’re lazy) The best time to start (hint: it’s not January 1) How to choose goals that fit your real life—not your fantasy life The mindset shift from vanity goals to “future me” goals (hello, the 70-year-old version of you) Megan’s 10 rules for sustainable changes.About today’s guest: Megan Secrest, LCSW is the founder of Gift of Grit Counseling. She supports clients navigating anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, identity shifts, and grief—and she blends trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, polyvagal principles, and practical habit-building tools to help change actually last. Connect with Megan: Website: https://www.giftofgritcounseling.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giftofgritcounselingThanks for sitting with us today. I’m really glad you’re here—and I’ll save you a seat for next time. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

On this special episode, Kristen was recently a guest on the podcast Therapist's Take, where they explored the complex and often invisible realm of ambiguous and non-traditional grief. They discussed the many ways this kind of grief shows up—through infertility and disrupted visions of family, through the slow unraveling of relationships and the loss of safety within them, through the painful recognition of family dysfunction, and through the moral injuries carried by those in military or first responder roles. You will learn how to name these experiences (07:26), understand their emotional impact, and take meaningful steps toward healing when closure isn’t straightforward.You can find more about Therapist's Take with Carrie and Josh here: https://familysolutionsok.com/fsc-podcasts/Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Listen to hear Kristen's update about her experience of running a marathon, and the lessons she learned.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

You’ve named the tricky relationships. You’ve thought through your boundaries. But what happens when setting those boundaries doesn’t go the way you hoped? In this final episode of Navigating the Holidays with Tricky People, Kristen walks you through how to prepare for pushback—emotionally, mentally, and practically. She helps you explore the gap between the boundaries you want to set and the ones you’re actually ready for, and reminds you that quiet internal boundaries are still real boundaries. You’ll learn five ways to ground yourself ahead of time, how to spot manipulative guilt trips, and why even tiny steps forward still count. This is your prep talk before you head into hard rooms—so you don’t go in unanchored. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In this second episode of Navigating the Holidays with Tricky People, we’re talking all about boundaries—what they are, what they aren’t, and why they can feel so dang hard to set, especially around family. Kristen breaks down a simple metaphor that helps make boundaries more concrete, names common boundary myths, and offers practical examples for setting limits around your time, your body, your kids, and your space. Whether you're thinking about leaving early, skipping the drama, or just quietly opting out of hard conversations—this episode will help you prepare for whatever gatherings lie ahead. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

It’s race week, and Kristen is feeling both confident and nervous—and that feels exactly right. In this episode, she reflects on what it means to sit in the moment and trust 18 weeks of training. She shares her mix of excitement and nerves, her practical prep for race day (including the Vaseline bath and backup headphones), and her plan to soak in the experience rather than rush through it.Whether you’re training for something big or simply preparing for a major life moment, this episode is a reminder to pause, breathe, and trust what you’ve built.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Some challenges feel like marathons—long, exhausting, and full of moments where you just want to stop. In this week’s Monday Growth Moment, I’m talking about how to mentally pace yourself through the hard stuff, both on the road and in life.I share how I break down my long runs (and tough seasons) into smaller, manageable goals, and why it’s so important to focus on what you’ve already accomplished instead of how far you still have to go.If you’re tired, overwhelmed, or in the middle of your own “mental marathon,” this episode is for you.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In this first episode of Navigating the Holidays with Tricky People, we’re starting with something foundational: getting clear on the relationships in your life.Therapist Kristen Callaway walks you through a simple but powerful framework—green flag, yellow flag, and red flag relationships—to help you notice where you feel safe… and where you don’t. We talk about why your nervous system may already be signaling something your brain hasn’t caught up to, how to tell the difference between discomfort and actual danger, and why it’s okay (and necessary) to honor what’s true for you—even if that means acknowledging hard things about people you love.We’ll also gently explore the guilt that often shows up when family members fall into the “tricky” category, and why naming a pattern doesn’t make you mean or disloyal. It makes you honest—and that’s where boundary work begins.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Sometimes doing the hard thing means accepting that it didn’t go the way you planned. In this week’s Monday Growth Moment, I’m talking about disappointment — the kind that hits when you’ve worked so hard for something, only to have it fall apart.From a freezing, rain-turned-snow 20-mile run to cutting my long run short because my body gave out, I’m sharing what it looks like to sit with frustration, name your feelings, and refocus on what really matters.This one’s for anyone who’s had to admit, “I’m disappointed… and I’m still going.”Find my favorite feelings wheel here: https://feelingswheel.com/This is not an ad nor sponsored by this website in any way, just a free share.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

This week’s Monday Growth Moment is a real-life reminder that none of us can do everything all the time. Between marathon training, parenting, work, and the simple act of being human, Kristen shares what it looks like when priorities have to shift—and why that’s not a sign of failure.From piles of laundry to long runs that steal whole weekends, this episode is about giving yourself permission to let some things slide so you can focus on what truly matters right now. Whether you’re juggling too much, going through something hard, or just feeling tired, this one’s for you.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Sometimes life just happens — even with the best intentions, the perfect plan, and all the motivation in the world. In this week’s Monday Growth Moment, Kristen talks about an unplanned two-week break, a grueling 14-mile run, priorities, and what marathon training keeps teaching her about flexibility and perspective.This is a real, honest reflection about giving yourself permission to pivot, slow down, and make space for what really matters — not just the goals in front of you, but the life that’s happening around you.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

This week’s Monday Growth Moment is a little different—I took you along with me for a long run I did not want to do. Between the heat, running out of water, and the mental games that come with 12 miles, this episode is a raw look at what it means to keep going when everything in you wants to stop.We talk about grit, discipline, gratitude—and how doing hard things isn’t always glamorous, but it does build confidence and resilience. Whether your “hard thing” this week is physical, emotional, or just showing up for yourself, I hope this episode reminds you that you can do it.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In this final episode of the It Didn’t Look Like Trauma series, Kristen speaks directly to you—like a letter from her heart to yours. Together, we reflect on what healing really looks like, why some wounds leave lasting scars, and how to navigate boundaries with parents or caregivers who may never change.This episode holds space for the messy realities of grief, estrangement, reconciliation, and finding peace in your own path. Kristen reminds you that you’re not broken, you’re not responsible for someone else’s healing, and you deserve relationships built on care and safety.With compassion and honesty, this episode closes the series with hope: you can stop cycles of hurt, create new traditions, and become who you needed when you were younger.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

After a week off from marathon training, Kristen reflects on showing up with what you’ve got—even when it’s less than you hoped for. From running to boundaries to managing anxiety, progress isn’t about perfect paces or flawless effort. It’s about forward movement, grace for hard days, and remembering that “forward is a pace.” Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Sometimes life forces us to slow down—whether it’s illness, stress, or plain old exhaustion. In this Growth Moment, Kristen shares how marathon training (and getting sick mid-training) taught her the value of rest. Progress isn’t about hitting every mark perfectly—it’s about listening to your body, pacing yourself, and remembering that rest is part of the process. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In this week’s Growth Moment, Kristen reflects on how what we consume—especially on social media—shapes what we believe is possible for ourselves. From running marathons to tackling personal goals, the stories we take in can either limit us or expand our sense of what’s achievable. Tune in for a reminder to surround yourself with perspectives that encourage, inspire, and keep you moving forward. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Healing from childhood pain isn’t quick or linear. It’s a slow, steady process of learning to trust, express emotions, and gently retrain your body and brain toward safety and connection. In this episode, Kristen shares what therapy really looks like—from the foundational goals she sets with clients, to the practical skills that support healing outside the therapy room. If you’ve ever wondered what the actual process of healing feels like, this episode will give you a grounded, honest look inside. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

We often think growth means pushing harder, doing more, and never slowing down. But real progress comes from pacing ourselves—steady effort balanced with intentional rest. In this short reflection, Kristen shares how marathon training (and therapy) both teach the same truth: growth doesn’t come from constant pushing. It comes from effort, rest, and the patience to keep showing up over time. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

 What would it look like to set goals that are impossible to fail? In this Monday Growth Moment, I share how I gave myself two “can’t fail” tests. Along the way, I talk about why small, winnable steps matter for building momentum and reshaping self-talk. I’ll also give simple, real-life examples for anxiety and depression so you can start creating your own can’t-fail tests and stack up memories of success—no matter how small they seem. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Not every mountain top moment looks like a giant, flashy win. In this Monday Growth Moment, I’m talking about the importance of celebrating all kinds of achievements—big and small—and how context can completely change the way we measure progress. If you’ve ever downplayed something hard you did because it didn’t seem “impressive enough,” this one’s for you. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In our 3rd episode in the It Didn't Look Like Trauma series, we look at how childhood experiences—whether they were big, obvious traumas or quieter, harder-to-name attachment wounds—can shape the way you show up in adult life. We’ll explore how these early patterns influence relationships, work, parenting, and the way you see yourself. I’ll share common patterns I notice in therapy that often point back to childhood, why so many of us minimize our own pain, and what it means to begin healing. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Motivation is great—until it disappears.In this Monday Growth Moment, Kristen explores how building discipline helps us keep going even when we feel tired, stuck, or unmotivated. Whether you're trying something new, starting therapy, or just showing up for yourself in a hard season… this one’s for you. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In this Monday Growth Moment, Kristen shares a personal story about marathon training, burnout, and the mental spiral of all-or-nothing thinking. If you’ve ever felt like missing one step means you've failed completely, this one's for you. We talk about how perfectionism can steal the grace we need, and why listening to your body is sometimes the bravest move you can make. There’s room to grow in the grey. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Not all trauma is loud. In episode 2 of the It Didn't Look Like Trauma series, Kristen unpacks the kinds of childhood experiences that don’t always look like trauma—but still leave deep marks. From emotional neglect to chronic misattunement, we explore how early wounds shape our nervous system, our attachment styles, and our relationships in adulthood. If you’ve ever found yourself saying “I turned out fine” while still struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, or disconnection—this one’s for you. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

In this first episode of Monday Growth Moment, I’m talking about how perfectionism got in the way of something that should’ve been joyful—my first marathon.I share what it looked like to measure my worth by pace, how I started untangling that pressure, and what I’m doing differently as I start training again. If perfection has been creeping into your own goals or healing work, this one’s for you.You’re still enough—even when you slow down.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Welcome to Monday Growth Moment—a short weekly check-in about doing the hard things that help us grow.In this trailer episode, I’m sharing where this series comes from and why it matters. It’s inspired by my own marathon training journey—but it’s not just about running. It’s about what happens when we stretch outside our comfort zones, challenge old beliefs, and show up for ourselves in new ways.Whether your “hard thing” is physical, emotional, creative, or something no one else can see—this space is for you.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

What if the way you relate to others—clingy, distant, or somewhere in between—started long before you had words to explain it? In the first episode of the It Didn't Look Like Trauma series, Kristen breaks down what attachment is, how it forms in early life, and how those patterns can shape our sense of safety and connection well into adulthood. If you’ve ever felt like your relationships stir up old wounds you can’t quite name, this episode is for you.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Try this if you feel shut down, spaced out, or numb. This short practice is designed to gently help your body come back online after a freeze response. We’ll use small movements, breath, and orientation to bring you back into connection—at your own pace. There’s no rush, and no right way to do it. Just start where you are. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Try this when you’re feeling tense, anxious, or disconnected from your body. In this short guided practice, we’ll use color breathing—a simple visualization technique—to help ease discomfort and bring in calm. You don’t have to picture it perfectly. Just follow along and notice what feels even a little bit better. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

If you’re feeling tense, anxious, or stuck in your head, this guided muscle relaxation can help you reconnect with your body and settle your nervous system. We’ll gently tense and release different muscle groups to invite a sense of calm and safety back in. You don’t need to get it perfect—just follow along and notice what your body needs. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

 In this short guided practice, we’ll use the 4-7-8 breathing technique—a simple way to help slow your heart rate, calm anxious thoughts, and support your nervous system when things feel overwhelming. I’ll count each breath with you, so you don’t have to keep track. Whether you’re feeling panicked, wired, or just need a moment of stillness, this practice can help bring you back to center. Go at your own pace, and remember—you can stop or return to natural breathing anytime. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected? This episode walks you through the 5-4-3-2-1 technique—a simple sensory grounding skill to help you come back to the present moment. You’ll use your sight, sound, touch, and other senses to gently reorient to what's around you and reconnect with your body. This practice is great for moments of panic, dissociation, or just when your thoughts are moving too fast. No pressure to get it perfect—just follow along and see what helps. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

Before we dive into grounding and mindfulness tools, I want to talk about something important: not every regulation skill will feel safe for every nervous system—and that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. In this short episode, I share how trauma can impact your response to common grounding practices like breathwork, silence, or body-based exercises. You'll hear why it’s okay to adapt or skip techniques that don’t feel right, and how to start finding what actually works for you.Because regulation should feel supportive, not triggering. And your body’s response makes sense.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

 Ever wondered why your body spirals into anxiety or just totally shuts down—seemingly out of nowhere? In this first episode, Kristen breaks down the nervous system’s three main survival states—fight, flight, and freeze—using a relatable, polyvagal-informed lens. You'll learn what these states actually mean, how to recognize them, and why your reactions aren’t failures—they’re protection. If you’ve ever felt confused, ashamed, or broken because of how you respond to stress, this one’s for you. Let’s replace shame with understanding and start building a safer relationship with your body—one step at a time. Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.

This is a short introduction to Let’s Sit With This—a podcast for anyone navigating anxiety, trauma, overwhelm, or just a lot of big feelings. I’m Kristen, a trauma therapist, and I’m here to offer guided grounding exercises, supportive conversations, and gentle space to slow down. Whether you’re in the middle of a panic spiral or just need a moment to breathe, you’re welcome here.Let’s sit with what’s real, without judgment.Let's Sit With This is hosted by Kristen Callaway, LMFT — a licensed therapist in Edmond, OK.Got a topic or question for the podcast? Submit it hereFind me here: Website: seekingpeaceok.com Instagram & Facebook: @seekingpeacecounselingIf this podcast has been helpful, following or subscribing helps more people find it. And if a specific episode resonated — sharing it with someone you care about goes a long way.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact your local crisis line.