Taking Good Care Podcast

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the many layers of anxiety and why some situations leave us feeling overwhelmed with fear or worry, while others see those same moments as opportunities to grow. Through an engaging conversation, they unpack the science behind anxiety, how our thoughts shape our reactions, and why anxiety can affect each person so differently.You will also learn about effective tools for managing anxiety, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) strategies that can help people regain a sense of calm and control.Whether you personally experience anxiety or want to better understand and support someone who does, this thoughtful episode offers insight, reassurance, and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Season 2 of Taking Good Care kicks off with Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave continuing their thoughtful conversation on burnout. Drawing from personal experiences, the two psychologists explore the value of setting healthy boundaries, practicing self-compassion, rediscovering purpose, and reconnecting with supportive relationships. They also share practical, realistic strategies for busy lives, showing how even a few intentional minutes each day can help you reset, recharge, and feel more grounded. Tune in for an honest, relatable discussion that offers both insight and actionable tools to help you move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling more in control and energized.

In the season one finale of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into the all-too-common issue of burnout. While often associated with workplace stress, burnout affects far more than just working adults. It can impact children, teens, and anyone juggling multiple roles and responsibilities.They explore how burnout shows up across different stages of life, why it’s important to recognize the early warning signs, and how it can contribute to more serious mental health challenges if left unaddressed. The conversation wraps up with an introduction into strategies to help prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being. Part two will dive deeper into the practical and proactive strategies for burnout which will be the perfect launch into season two of Taking Good Care.

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the difficult but essential topic of self-harm and suicide. This is an issue that cannot be overlooked in mental health care. Rather than aiming to provide comprehensive clinical training or sensationalize the subject, they focus on breaking down common myths, sharing key statistics, and offering clear, practical steps you can take if someone you care about is struggling with suicidal thoughts.This conversation is especially relevant for those who may find themselves in frontline or support roles, whether professionally or personally.Listener discretion is advised: This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes. If you experience distress while listening and are in Canada, please call 9-8-8 for immediate support. If you are outside of Canada, please reach out to your local emergency services or a crisis helpline in your area.

In this episode of the Taking Good Care podcast, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into a lively conversation about dreams. From the early days of Freud’s dream analysis to modern psychological perspectives, they explore how our understanding of dreams has evolved over time. Even though dream interpretation is no longer a central focus in psychology, dreams still stir powerful emotions ranging from joy and excitement to fear and sadness. So what purpose do they serve? The hosts unpack theories about why we dream, the role of nightmares, and whether our dreams might reveal deeper core beliefs or help us process difficult experiences and trauma. It’s an engaging discussion that will leave you reflecting on your own dreams in a whole new way!

In the final episode of this ASD series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the unique challenges faced by adults living with autism spectrum disorder. Many individuals feel pressure to “mask” their struggles, presenting a composed exterior while navigating difficulties in private. In relationships, this can lead to both partners feeling misunderstood or unheard, often mirroring each other’s frustrations.Drawing from their clinical experience, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave discuss practical, therapy-based strategies to help adults with ASD better understand themselves and others, and to navigate the complexities of social and relational life. This episode offers insight, validation, and a message of hope; reminding listeners that growth, connection, and perseverance are always within reach.

In this episode of The Taking Good Care Podcast, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave continue the conversation on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), shifting their focus from assessment to treatment and support. While ASD is not something to be “cured,” there are many effective strategies and accommodations that can make a meaningful difference in daily life.Together, they explore practical approaches to managing challenging behaviours and supporting individuals with ASD across different settings. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or someone navigating life on the spectrum, this episode offers thoughtful insights and actionable tips you won’t want to miss.

Following last episode’s introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take the conversation further with a deeper look at how ASD is actually diagnosed. In this episode, they explore the key factors and clinical variables that determine whether a child or adult meets the diagnostic criteria. Along the way, they discuss why diagnostic accuracy matters, what can happen when assessments miss the mark, and how clinicians can ensure individuals receive the most appropriate evaluation and care.Whether you’re a psychology student, a parent, a professional, or simply curious to learn more about ASD, this episode offers an insightful and accessible look at the complexities behind getting the diagnosis right.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurodiversity are widely discussed, and at times politically charged topics in today’s cultural landscape. In this first installment of a special multi-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take a thoughtful, in-depth look at ASD from multiple angles.Together, they explore the history of the diagnosis, unpack the diagnostic criteria, and examine ongoing debates surrounding prevalence and epidemiology. With clarity and balance, they address key controversies while grounding the conversation in research, clinical insight, and real-world experience.Whether you’re an emerging mental health professional, an educator, a parent, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of autism and neurodiversity, this episode lays an essential foundation you won’t want to miss.

What exactly does a pediatric occupational therapist do and how do they work alongside psychologists to support kids?In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave chat with Venita Rajput and Kassandra Rago, the co-founders of Mighty OT’s. They break down how occupational therapy supports developing children, covering everything from emotional regulation and sensory sensitivities to feeding struggles and day-to-day routines.It’s an insightful conversation about teamwork, child development, and helping families feel empowered every step of the way.You can find out more about Mighty OT's at www.mightyots.ca and you can also follow them on Instagram @mightyots

Student mental health is shaped by a network of influences including students themselves, caregivers, teachers, and school leaders. Everyone plays a vital role. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with veteran Toronto principal, Vince Galea, to explore how schools can better support student well-being. Together, they examine why resilience rarely develops in isolation and why a collective, community-based approach is essential. The conversation highlights the critical need to equip educators with practical tools and strategies, and underscores how fostering a positive, respectful school culture benefits not only students, but teachers as well.Vince Galea is very active on social media and can be found @thefriendlyprincipal on Instagram.

How much does culture influence what happens in therapy, often without us realizing it? In part two of this two part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive deeper into the powerful, and often overlooked, role culture plays in the therapy room. From therapists’ personal values and hidden biases to the messages conveyed by an office space, and even how clients choose their therapists, this episode offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at the therapeutic relationship. Through compelling personal stories and real-world insights, the psychologists reveal why cultural awareness isn’t optional - it is essential for meaningful, effective care.

Culture is everywhere! It shapes our beliefs, behaviours, and sense of self in ways we don’t always notice. In the first of this two-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave take a deep dive into what culture is and how it influences our psychological development. From early childhood experiences to navigating today’s political climate, they explore how cultural forces impact us all. Along the way, the conversation gets candid, as both psychologists reflect on their own biases and perspectives, setting the stage for part two’s discussion on culture in the therapy room.

Many men still hesitate to talk openly about their mental health, fearing they’ll be seen as “weak” or overly vulnerable. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with registered psychologist, Nathan Foerger, for an honest conversation about the transformative power of group therapy for men. Together, they explore what makes a strong therapeutic group: 1) compassionate leadership, 2) psychological safety, and 3) genuinely supportive peers. The discussion also unpacks some of the biggest challenges facing men today, including loneliness, lack of intimacy, and the pressure to live up to rigid societal expectations. This episode offers a powerful introduction to group therapy and a nuanced look at the realities of men’s mental health.

Taking Good Care has explored many approaches to therapy, from individuals and couples to children and adults. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into the world of family therapy.They discuss family systems theory and the skill it takes to understand the complex dynamics, disruptions, and culture within families. Insightful, practical, and engaging, this episode is perfect for anyone curious about family therapy or considering it for themselves or their family.

Disordered eating is a deeply complex mental health challenge and recovery is rarely one-size-fits-all. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave are joined by clinical psychologist, Dr. Daniel Rochman, for a thoughtful conversation on the many forces that shape eating disorders and their treatment. Together, they explore the biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence healing, and why understanding the whole person matters. The episode also dives into mentalization as a powerful therapeutic tool, offering insight into how greater self-awareness and understanding of others can support recovery. Whether you’re a clinician, someone in recovery, or simply curious, this conversation offers compassion, clarity, and hope.

To kick off the New Year, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into one of the most talked-about and controversial topics in modern psychology: artificial intelligence. As conversations around using AI in therapy continue to grow, opinions remain divided. Some clinicians view AI as a threat to traditional practice, while others see promising opportunities to support mental health and personal growth. In this episode, the doctors explore both the potential benefits and the ethical concerns surrounding AI-assisted therapy. As technology continues to evolve, so does the field of psychology and this thought-provoking, entertaining discussion is one you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re curious about innovative approaches to mental well-being.

As 2026 approaches, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down for an unscripted conversation about something we all have strong feelings about: New Year’s resolutions. Love them or avoid them, they’re hard to ignore. Together, they explore why the journey and process matters more than the end result, and how shifting your focus from perfection to progress can make all the difference. Along the way, familiar themes of self-compassion and resilience naturally surface. If you’re starting to think about the year ahead, or feeling unsure about how to approach it, this episode is a thoughtful and encouraging listen.

In part two of our conversation on the treatment of depression, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave welcome psychiatrist Dr. Michael Martyna back to the Taking Good Care podcast. Responding to listener requests, Dr. Martyna joins the discussion to explore novel and innovative approaches to treatment-resistant depression. Recent advances in science and technology have expanded the options available to clinicians, including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and other emerging therapies. If you’re interested in cutting-edge medical science or if you or someone you know is living with treatment-resistant depression, this episode is a must-listen.

A major topic in psychology that this podcast has not yet covered is depression. In the first of a two-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave finally dive in. The episode explores three key areas: how major depressive disorder is diagnosed, practical strategies that can help lift low mood in the short term, and ways to begin addressing the inner self-critic that so often stands in the way of recovery. Whether you are a psychology student or someone navigating depressive symptoms yourself, this is a thoughtful and practical conversation you won’t want to miss.

While the holidays are often filled with excitement and cheer, they can also be overwhelming or emotionally difficult. Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into how communication, self-kindness, and clear boundaries can make this season more manageable. They talk openly about coping with grief, navigating loss, and supporting neurodivergent children who may struggle with sensory overload. Throughout the episode, they share helpful tools to care for your mental well-being. It’s a meaningful conversation you’ll want to tune into this season!

Borderline personality disorder is often viewed as one of the most challenging mental health conditions to understand and treat. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with registered psychologist Dr. Mark Nicoll for a compelling conversation that separates fact from myth when it comes to borderline personality disorder in adolescents and teens. Together, they explore intense emotions, turbulent relationships, self-harm, and the many experiences that shape this diagnosis. Most importantly, Dr. Nicoll offers a clear, practical introduction to mentalization-based treatment — an evidence-based therapeutic approach that is making a real difference in the lives of young people and their families.Here are some helpful resources:1) Expert Education Series - The Sashbear Foundation2) Mentalizing: What it is and How to Do it with Carla Sharp, Ph.D.3) FAMILY EDUCATION WORKSHOP VIDEOS | National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder

Many people experience addiction in silence, and while substances like alcohol, nicotine, and drugs are commonly recognized, they are far from the only forms addiction can take. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave break down the diverse pathways that can lead someone into addictive behaviours and discuss why the journey toward recovery is often so challenging. They also explore the mental health conditions that frequently occur alongside addiction, shedding light on how interconnected and complex these struggles can be.

Brain injury rehabilitation is anything but straightforward and often deeply challenging. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with Dr. Martin Logan, a registered neuropsychologist with decades of experience supporting people recovering from traumatic and acquired brain injuries. Together, they dive into an insightful discussion about the profound changes individuals and their families face after injury, the remarkable power of neuroplasticity, and why having a sense of purpose can be a game-changer during recovery. If you’ve ever taken a hit to the head, even a mild one, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

After their eye-opening talk about trauma with Dr. Janice Dicks, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave are back to continue the conversation. In this episode, they break down what healing from trauma can look like in real life by sharing practical ways to support recovery, how children experience trauma differently, and the surprising ways people can grow stronger after trauma. It’s an honest and hopeful discussion about moving forward, finding meaning, and building resilience.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into one of their favorite therapeutic approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Building on the foundations of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness, ACT helps clients learn to accept what is beyond their control while committing to meaningful actions that foster change. Join Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave as they unpack the six core processes that make up ACT and discuss why this evidence-based approach has become such a valuable part of their clinical practice.

Collaboration across disciplines is essential in psychological practice. This week, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with Ms. Angèle Lamontagne Looy, a speech-language pathologist (SLP), to explore her experiences working with children and adults in rural communities. Together, they discuss the wide-ranging impacts of speech and language challenges from stuttering and pronunciation difficulties to struggles with social communication, and how these issues can affect mental health when left unaddressed. Whether you’re an educator, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation highlights the crucial role of early intervention and the power of interdisciplinary teamwork in supporting communication and well-being.Should you require additional SLP resources, please see below:Speech-Language & Audiology Canadahttps://www.sac-oac.ca/for-the-public/Alberta https://www.acslpa.ca/slp-information/https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/service.aspx?Id=7406Private SLP services: https://asapp.caResources:https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Topic/Pediatric-Rehabilitation/Pages/communication.aspxhttps://myhealth.alberta.ca/Topic/Pediatric-Rehabilitation/Pages/talk-box.aspxOntario https://www.caslpo.comhttps://www.firstwords.ca/blog

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave have a very unscripted conversation with their audio engineer, David Matta, about his experience editing his first podcast focusing on psychology and mental health without any background in this field. In this fun exchange, they explore what it has been like to inadvertently learn so much about psychology, how he has taken information from episodes and applied it to his daily living, and how to ensure the information is accessible for listeners. David also turns the tables on our hosts as he asks Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave a series of reflective questions about the process of creating a new podcast.You can find David Matta at https://davidmattasound.com/

Think psychological assessments are intimidating? Think again. In this insightful episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with registered psychologist and University of Alberta professor, Dr. Jacqueline Pei, to reveal how psychoeducational, developmental, and mental health assessments can be powerful tools. Whether you're a client, parent, educator, healthcare provider, or just curious about the process, you will discover how assessments offer crucial insights and how, when done with compassion and collaboration, they can open doors to genuine support and understanding. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that could reshape how you think about psychological assessments.You can find Dr. Jacqueline Pei's research program at:https://sites.google.com/ualberta.ca/accertYou can also find Dr. Pei's private practice at:https://www.empowergrowth.ca/

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave pick up where they left off in episode seven, diving deeper into attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); this time with a focus on adults. Responding to listener questions, they explore the unique characteristics of adult ADHD, the challenges of getting an accurate diagnosis, and the complexities of managing symptoms that often go unrecognized for years. Whether you're navigating ADHD yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical guidance.

In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with registered psychologist, Dr. Janice Dicks, for a compelling conversation about trauma and recovery. Drawing on her years of experience working with trauma survivors, Dr. Dicks unpacks the science behind trauma and posttraumatic stress, and shares insights into how therapy can support healing. Together, they explore how people can not only process painful experiences but also rediscover growth, learning, and joy in their lives.Dr. Janice Dicks can be found at https://yeg-psychology.com/ and on Instagram @yeg.psychology

Living with chronic pain can be an isolating and overwhelming experience. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the psychological side of chronic pain, by drawing from their clinical experiences. They discuss how chronic pain can impact identity, mood, and daily life, and why it is essential to take time to address both the physical and emotional aspects of pain. Learn how mental health support, purposeful living, and compassionate care can make a meaningful difference. Whether you're navigating chronic pain yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable perspective and psychoeducation.

Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is gaining attention as a groundbreaking—and sometimes controversial—approach to mental health treatment. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave welcome registered psychologist, Ms. Priya Bains, for an insightful conversation about what PAT is, how it works, and why it is generating both excitement and debate. Together, they unpack the science, explore the potential benefits, and challenge common myths and misconceptions surrounding this evolving field.Priya Bains can be found at https://atmacena.com/

Anger is a universal emotion, but the ways we experience and express it can vary greatly. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave engage in a thoughtful conversation about their personal and professional encounters with anger. Drawing on both clinical insight and research, they explore common misconceptions about anger and why it’s a frequent topic in therapy. Tune in as they unpack the roots of frustration and share practical strategies for understanding and managing this powerful emotion.

In this insightful episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave are joined by Sharon Smith, a registered psychologist based in Edmonton, Alberta. With a distinguished career supporting families through high-conflict divorces, Ms. Smith brings deep wisdom to the conversation around parenting, grief, and family restructuring.Together, they explore how to support children’s emotional well-being during separation and the importance of compassion—for both parents and kids—through challenging transitions.Whether you're a mental health professional, educator, or a parent navigating a separation, this episode offers valuable guidance and perspective you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave are joined by psychiatrist, Dr. Michael Martyna, to explore one of the most common questions from clients: What’s the difference between psychology and psychiatry? Together, they break down misconceptions about psychiatric care, discuss the nuanced role of medication in mental health treatment, and highlight how psychology and psychiatry can work hand in hand to support well-being. Whether you're curious about the field or looking for clarity on treatment options, this insightful conversation offers valuable perspectives you won’t want to miss.

Over the past decade, “mindfulness” has become a buzzword but what does it actually mean? In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave break it down with a crash course on the essentials of mindfulness. They explore its historical roots, core principles, and the science behind being present in the moment. You’ll also hear practical, real-life examples of how mindfulness can be woven into everyday routines. There is even a simple guided practice built right into the episode! Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers a grounded and accessible introduction.

From the moment we wake up to the time we wind down, our behaviors shape how we move through the world. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with Yenushka Karunaratne, a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA), to explore the practical and powerful ways behavioral science is applied in everyday life. Yenushka shares her experiences working with children, caregivers, and educators, highlighting strategies that make a real difference. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape, and controversies, within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and how she is integrating mindfulness into her clinical approach.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the lasting impact of attachment theory on our social and emotional development. From birth, our early experiences with caregivers shape the way we connect with others—often influencing how we navigate adult relationships. But the story doesn’t end there. With new insights from psychological research, they discuss how the brain can adapt and rewire itself through meaningful, positive experiences, offering hope for personal growth and change at any stage of life.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave venture beyond their usual territory to sit down with Dr. Tatijana Busic, a registered psychologist with extensive knowledge in both clinical and organizational psychology. Dr. Busic has spent her career exploring the complex mental health challenges faced by professionals—especially those in leadership roles. Together, they dive into pressing issues like burnout, the elusive work-life balance, the importance of slowing down in a high-speed world, and how leaders can cultivate emotional intelligence to navigate today’s demanding corporate landscape. This is a must-listen for anyone in a leadership role—or aspiring to one—looking to lead with clarity, resilience, and compassion.Website: https://tatijanabusic.com/IG: @busic.psychology.consultingLinkedIn: @busic-psychology-consultingFB: @busic.psychology.consulting

In this late-night recording session, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into an unplanned but deeply honest conversation about compassion in the therapy room. From a psychologist’s perspective, they explore how to maintain empathy and presence with clients whose values may differ from their own. They also reflect on strategies for staying grounded and focused when navigating complex or emotionally difficult client situations.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive deep into the 5 Love Languages — Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. Whether you're in a relationship, navigating friendships, or looking to better understand yourself, knowing your love language can transform how you connect with others.. Plus, hear real-life stories on how Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave navigate love languages in their personal lives!

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into one of the most debated parenting topics today: screen time for children and adolescents. They explore how much is too much, what to do when the screens go off and the tantrums begin, and share practical strategies for setting healthy screen time boundaries. Tune in for expert insights and real-world tips you can use in your own home.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into the world of child and adolescent psychology. This animated discussion unpacks what therapy looks like for these age groups, how parents can support the process, and why seeking help early can make all the difference. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this episode offers a glimpse of what to expect when you enter a therapist's door with your child.

Couples counselling is often met with hesitation and uncertainty but it can be such a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave have an enthusiastic conversation with Dr. Holly Whyte (registered psychologist) who brings her expertise in couples counselling to the podcast. She shares her thoughts on how to find the proper couples therapist and discusses common issues that arise in couples therapy. She also debunks myths about couples counselling, If you are curious about couples counselling or if you are thinking about attending, this episode is definitely for you!

Setting healthy boundaries is a much more complex task than we think! Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave dive into a conversation about the many nuanced factors that impact our ability to set boundaries within ourselves and the people in our environment. By working towards setting healthier boundaries, we are striving toward taking better care of our mental health.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave invite Dr. Kendell Banack (registered psychologist) to discuss the power of emotions within the therapeutic process as well as in our daily living. Dr. Banack's clinical practice focuses on the use of Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) to unpack the role of emotions in our lives, which ultimately shapes the way we interpret our experiences and relationships.

Through personal and extensive clinical experiences, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave have an animated conversation about attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As one of the most well-researched childhood disorders, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave debunk myths, share strategies, and empathize with those struggling with ADHD.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the many obstacles to self-compassion. More than in previous episodes, the two psychologists open up and reflect about their personal experiences with self-compassion. By doing so, they shed some light on how the practice of self-compassion can bring a sense of peace and satisfaction to our daily lives.

In a society that is in constant pursuit of happiness, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the ingredients for happiness, the myths of happiness, and the science behind happiness. Our definition of "happiness" may change as we age, but the foundation of happiness and satisfaction is more deeply rooted within us than we think!