The Counseling Convos Podcast

Special Guest: Abram Shaheen, 12 years old- Youtube Channel creator "The Tooniest Panda". Author of "Divided Fronts, United Hearts". This Mini Episode explores how young people today navigate the digital landscape, balancing technology, friendships, schoolwork, and personal growth. We’ll dive into Abram's experience with social media, gaming, and how he stays grounded while balancing the real and digital worlds.*Also intended to help me brush up on my interviewing skills.

🎙 Episode Description: Beyond the Self (Season 3 Finale)In this season finale of The Counseling Convos Podcast, host Geries Shaheen, LPC NCC takes us Beyond the Self to explore one of the most challenging and transformative aspects of clinical work: transference and countertransference.Across history, from Freud’s first observations to modern approaches, these dynamics have shaped how therapy unfolds. But what do they mean for us today, as practicing counselors?This episode unpacks:The roots of transference and countertransference in psychology.Sample case reflections where self-awareness changes the outcome of therapy.Voices from the field — insights from Jung, Winnicott, and Yalom.Common myths busted: why countertransference doesn’t mean failure, why it matters beyond psychoanalysis, and why therapists aren’t meant to be blank slates.Powerful cinematic metaphors, including Tron: Legacy, reminding us of the “art of the selfless” in practice.A guided journaling exercise to help you notice, process, and respond when countertransference shows up in your sessions.Whether you’re a seasoned clinician or early in your counseling journey, this episode offers both reflection and practical tools for managing the delicate balance between our story and the client’s story.✨ Go beyond the surface. Go Beyond the Self.Learn more on LinkedInhttps://tinyurl.com/GeriesLinkedinGeries Shaheen is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor operating in and around St. Louis Missouri. Geries holds his MA in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University, BA in Intercultural Studies from Lincoln Christian University, and holds a certificate in Life Coaching, Geries provides life coaching services to clients online globally. Geries is EMDR trained and DBT Certified, practicing from a TIC lens.You can find Shaheen's workbooks on Amazon:Pioneer Counseling Anger WorkbookPioneer Counseling Trauma Informed Care PlannerPioneer Counseling Parenting WorkbookPioneer Counseling Rebuilding Bonds WorkbookThe People's Children: Mending Values in CommunityCharting Love's Course: Couples and Marriage Workbook

🎙️ Beyond Couples Feud Season 3, Episode 4 — Counseling Convos with Geries Shaheen, LPCIn this heart-level, brain-powered episode of Counseling Convos, host Geries Shaheen, LPC, NCC untangles a rising challenge in couples therapy: when well-meaning resourcing or clarifying questions are perceived as gaslighting.How do we hold space for deep relational wounds without being caught in the crossfire? What happens when trauma-informed clients feel retraumatized—by the very act of inquiry?In Beyond Couples Feud, we explore the tension between therapeutic neutrality and emotional safety. We unpack real-world scripts, interventions, and referral practices that honor autonomy, create clarity, and help clients move from relational shutdown to connection.💡 Topics include:Gaslighting vs. clarifying: when the line gets blurryHow trauma and attachment shape emotional responses in sessionScripts for rebuilding safety in real timeWhen and how to refer for sex therapy with compassion and clarityThe philosophical differences between LPCs and LMFTsEvidence-based interventions for common couples conflictsWhether you're a clinician, a couple navigating your own journey, or a curious listener who loves diving deep into the psychology of relationships, this episode brings rich tools, thoughtfulness, and just the right amount of meta-reflection.🎧 Subscribe and join us as we go beyond conflict—and toward repair.🔍 Cited Research & Resources:Carlson, D. L., Miller, A. J., Sassler, S., & Hanson, S. (2020). The division of housework, gender, and perceived fairness. Journal of Family Issues, 41(7), 1163–1186.Dew, J., & Stewart, R. (2012). A financial issue or marital issue? Family Relations, 61(4), 615–628.Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.Johnson, S. M., & Greenman, P. S. (2013). Emotionally focused couple therapy. Psychotherapy in Australia, 19(3), 56.Rogge, R. D., et al. (2013). The CARE program. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 81(6), 1022.Weeks, G. R., Hertlein, K. M., & Gambescia, N. (2016). A Clinician’s Guide to Systemic Sex Therapy. Routledge.White, M., & Epston, D. (1990). Narrative Means to Therapeutic Ends. Norton & Company.Wiebe, S. A., & Johnson, S. M. (2016). Emotionally focused therapy review. Family Process, 55(3), 390–407.Williams, M. J., & Zweig, J. S. (2015). CBT for jealousy. Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy, 45(2), 83–91.

🎙️ Beyond the Binary Season 3, Episode 3 — Counseling Convos with Geries Shaheen, LPCIn this powerful and nuanced finale to Season 3, host Geries Shaheen, LPC, NCC steps into one of the most complex and culturally charged conversations in modern mental health: gender identity and the DSM-5 diagnosis of gender dysphoria.Join us as we go Beyond the Binary—exploring the interplay of biology, psychology, environment, and identity. From fetal hormone development and genetic research to cultural conditioning and spiritual frameworks, this episode examines how gender forms and evolves within the human experience.We take a critical yet compassionate look at gender-affirming care, its alternatives, and what it means for therapists to truly offer person-centered, nonjudgmental support. Whether you're a clinician, student, or simply curious about how mental health professionals navigate this evolving topic, you'll walk away with deeper insight, empathy, and practical wisdom.💡 Topics include:Gender identity vs. sex: scientific and clinical distinctionsDSM-5 criteria for gender dysphoriaCurrent statistics and the social climateAffirming care vs. conversion therapyThe ethics of neutrality, support, and therapeutic empowerment🔗 Stay through to the end for trusted resources and research links to further your understanding.This is more than a conversation—it’s a call to listen well, think critically, and lead with care.🎧 Subscribe now and join us as we wrap the season with heart, depth, and honesty.🔍 Cited Resources & Further Reading:The Biological Contributions to Gender Identity and Gender Diversity https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33176072/Causes of Gender Incongruence (Wikipedia Overview) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Causes_of_gender_incongruenceWhat is Gender Dysphoria? (APA) https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gender-dysphoria/what-is-gender-dysphoriaAPA Policy on Inclusive and Evidence-Based Care for Transgender and Nonbinary People https://www.apa.org/about/policy/resolution-gender-identity-change-efforts.pdfAPA Resolution Opposing Gender Identity Change Efforts (Conversion Therapy) https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2015/11/affirming-transgender.aspxGender Dysphoria: A Psychological Model (ResearchGate) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330853333_Gender_Dysphoria_A_Psychological_Model

Welcome to The Counseling Convos Podcast, where we dive deep into the fascinating world of psychology and counseling. In this thought-provoking episode titled "Beyond AI," your host Geries Shaheen LPC takes you on a journey to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and mental health therapy.In Part 1, we uncover the origins of AI anxiety, tracing its roots from science fiction to real-world applications. Join us as we unravel the psychological impact of fearing AI and discuss coping strategies for managing AI anxiety.Moving into Part 2, we shift our focus to embracing AI acceptance. Discover the myriad benefits of integrating AI into our lives and learn how to overcome common barriers to accepting AI.Finally, in Part 3, we explore the potential for integrating AI for human flourishing. From human-centric AI design to ethical considerations and collaboration between humans and AI, we envision a future where technology enhances, rather than detracts from, our well-being.Join us on The Counseling Convos Podcast as we go beyond the surface of AI and delve into the complexities of its integration into the counseling and mental health therapy field. Tune in to gain valuable insights and perspectives on navigating the ever-evolving relationship between humans and technology.

In this empowering episode of "Nurturing Growth," we delve into the world of clinical supervision for provisionally licensed counselors. Join your host Geries Shaheen LPC, NCC as we navigate the unique challenges faced by these budding mental health professionals. From balancing the demands of work and personal life to wrestling with the imposter syndrome, our journey unveils the top 10 struggles and offers profound insights for overcoming each hurdle. Step into the shoes of those navigating client diversity, the legal tightrope, and the dynamic world of supervision itself. This episode is a basic guide, not just for provisionally licensed counselors but for anyone passionate about fostering growth and resilience in the field of mental health. Tune in, embrace the struggles, and discover the transformative power of clinical supervision.

In this episode of "The Counseling Convos Podcast," we explore the topic of spiritual trauma and its impact on mental health. We discuss the causes of spiritual trauma, including traumatic events, a sense of betrayal or abandonment by a higher power or spiritual community, conflicts between spiritual beliefs and personal or social identities, a lack of support or understanding from spiritual communities or leaders, and spiritual abuse. We also discuss the symptoms of spiritual trauma and the importance of addressing it in therapy. We provide tips for mental health professionals on how to approach the topic of spirituality in therapy and how to support clients who may be experiencing spiritual trauma. This episode is relevant for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of spiritual trauma and its impact on mental health.

Counseling Convos Season 2 Episode 4: From Dark to Light, Humanistic PsychologyHave you ever thought about the extent of human potential? Abraham Maslow did! He was a pioneer in the psychological industry.Listen in to this episode of #thecounselingconvospodcast as we discuss another paradigm shift in humanistic/positive psychology.What do you think of our discussion on self-actualization and how this exemplifies how humans are still striving towards the pursuit of happiness? Share your thoughts in the comments below!It’s time to redefine what it means to be human. ⁣Let’s get human. Whatever your goals and aspirations, they’re waiting to be nurtured, so let’s tap into those inner desires and learn the psychology behind what makes you progress through life.In this episode I discuss the times and life of Abraham Maslow, review his theory as well as discuss the stages of change.Guests: Janice Ruesler, MA, LPC, NCC, SQP, MARSGeries Shaheen LPC NCCPioneer Counseling

Who are we when no one is looking? How well do you know the deepest parts of your mind? How can we exist in a paradoxical world that has both beauty and pain? In this episode we learn about Carl Jung and his theory of personality. Archetypes, Individuation, the persona, the shadow and much more. In this episode you will hear from Casarah Peng- LCSW, and Matt Geders- Director of Training at One Shepherd Leadership Institute.Guests: Casarah Peng- LCSW, Matt Geders- Director of Training at One Shepherd Leadership Institute Learn more about One Shepherd here: https://1shepherd.com/Learn more about Casarah Peng here: https://tinyurl.com/35d5e5s3#Counseling #MentalHealth #Psychology

Trauma can take on many forms. It can leave a long lasting impact. This episode is meant to be empowering. To those who survive, trauma can be crippling or / and it can be a powerful tool for life change. Join me as I get a glimpse of the industry from the eyes of Jordyn Hope- Recovery Coach at Flourish and Thrive, and Madison Herrell of Preferred Family Healthcare.In this episode we travel back in time to view the historical context of Philippe Pinel, Trauma, and the progression of Mental Health.

Welcome back! It’s been a minute. It seems fitting to pick up where our world left off. I want to know about your grief, about your loss. You didn’t experience this in a vacuum. Join me as we look at the ever famous Stages of Grief. Have you experienced loss this year? Many have, this episode is for you.

Episode 6: Social Resiliency Abroad- Special Guest Julia Sampolska Processing a pandemic is one thing, to do it overseas in an entirely different culture and language while in high school, well, that's something entirely different. Join me on a Covid edition of The Counseling Convos Podcast as I interview Julia Sampolska, an exchange student from Poland. Julia had to cut her stay short and head back to Poland on a government-issued plane. This was recorded the night before she left. Julie shares about her year in review, seasons of change, covid related dynamics, and having to transition on a dime. 

The Jungle is a 1906 novel by the American journalist and novelist Upton Sinclair (1878–1968). Sinclair wrote the novel to portray the harsh conditions and exploited the lives of immigrants in the United States in Chicago and similar industrialized cities. His primary purpose in describing the meat industry and its working conditions was to advance socialism in the United States. However, most readers were more concerned with several passages exposing health violations and unsanitary practices in the American meatpacking industry during the early 20th century, which greatly contributed to a public outcry which led to reforms including the Meat Inspection Act. Sinclair famously said of the public reaction, "I aimed at the public's heart, and by accident, I hit it in the stomach."Unintended Consequences come in many shapes and can have a long-lasting impact on people's lives. It can impact identity, cultures, history, and sometimes our very existence.  For Madeline Coburn, an unintended consequence left her to be identified as legally deceased for 10 years! This is a Remarkable story about a women's life that is filled with mysteries and in some ways is still unresolved.  Madeline is not allowed to vote, because she was listed as not even living! Her story was featured on CNN!There are naturally difficult situations in life, death, accidents, injuries, arguments, job losses. But sometimes the universe throws a curveball, something completely out of the left field. Something we are not expecting in any way what so ever.  When I first read The Jungle, I found it so intriguingly eerie how one's identity can be easily formed by the setting in which they live and work. At the turn of the century, in which the book is framed, the main character and his young wife struggle to survive as they fall deeply into debt and become prey to con men. Debt is something most people can somewhat relate to. —- Being subject to experience completely unfamiliar can be traumatic. The effect, long-lasting.Finding the Funny Mallori DeSalle (Integrated Care Change Agent (Indiana University/ Truman State University) NCC (nationally certified counselor LMHC (licensed mental health counselor CCMHC (Certified clinical Health counselor) - If there's letters to be acquired, shes got em. - She views Humor as a clinical tool, motivational interviewing or screening, and brief interventions. (She speaks/ trains/ facilitates in all these areas)  -Mallori confronts the case that humor in counseling is an avoidance response and in some ways a defense mechanism. She shared that it can be our body's way of surviving, allowing us to feel something other than the painful emotions we might carry. Listen to her take and how to distinguish between a healthy response and an avoidant one.Mallori DeSalletwitter: @malgaldesalleWebsite: www.laffirmationstation.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallori-desalle-4918378Madeline CoburnLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coburnenterprise

Counseling Convos: Episode 4 Emotional Intelligence I knew I wanted to be a psychotherapist between the ages of 12-15. It wasn’t solidified until my trip to Nashville in 2006 when I decided to travel to Uganda a year later. I was a senior in high school and was blessed enough by numerous church families and sponsers to partner with a non profit called Invisible children. After approximately 3 weeks of witnessing first hand accounts of the impact left by the Lords Resistance Army in that area, I couldn’t not think about living a life focused on mental health and shaping culture for the betterment of society. I had decided to attend a Christian College in the small town of Lincoln Ill, then pursue my masters in professional counseling at Lindenwood University in St. Charles Mo.After all these years now, of providing therapy in so many avenues, so many pockets of town, to so many varying types of people. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of Emotional Intelligence. In todays episode, we dive into emotional intelligence as it pertains to the workplace. Emotional intelligence (also known as ‘emotional quotient’, or EQ) was ranked sixth in the World Economic Forum’s list of the top 10 skills that employees will need to possess to thrive in the workplace of the future.But what is EQ? How can it affect your progression at work and your ability to interact with teams and peers, and what impact can it have on your physical and mental wellbeing?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder, ED, Self Concept. If these terms are familiar then this episode is for you. If not, then here is a chance to learn about how much our culture is impacted by Shame, and what we can do about feeling self conscious.

What makes a home? Is it the people? The memories? The town? Come along as I try and find out! Guests include Mary Jepsen, Ashley Key of “Key Living”, and Tonya Hankins of Hanani House. As always, I’m recording from Historic Saint Charles Missouri. Intro • Your Space • Home Space • Key Space • Associated Space • Anchor • Questioned Space • Forgotten Space • New Space • Funded Space

Join me on a walk down Main Street Saint Charles as I reflect on simplicity. What is it, how it is attained, and what we can do with it when we have it. Guest speakers include Grace Bingley LMSW, Carissa Figgins Executive Director of Community Strong, and Tricia Pyatt LPC of E3 Counseling Services. http://communitystrongscc.org https://www.e3counselingservices.com