The Holistic Counselor

Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. In this powerful and deeply human conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC explores what happens when physical illness, nervous system dysregulation, anxiety, and depression collide — especially in a medical system that often minimizes or dismisses symptoms it cannot easily explain. Six years after COVID changed the world, many people are still struggling with lingering symptoms, exhaustion, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and a profound sense of not feeling like themselves. For some, these experiences are labeled as "just anxiety." For others, answers never come at all. In Episode 108 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana is joined by Evan H. Hirsch, a physician known as EnergyMD, to unpack the complex intersection of Long Covid, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), trauma, nervous system dysregulation, and mental health. This episode is not about quick fixes or miracle cures. It's about understanding the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — and restoring self-trust after prolonged illness and medical invalidation.  What You'll Learn in This Episode What Long Covid is and why symptoms can persist months or years after infection Why anxiety and depression can be symptoms, not root causes, of unresolved physical stress How medical gaslighting impacts mental health and nervous system regulation The concept of the "Toxic 5" (heavy metals, chemicals, mold, infections, nervous system dysfunction) How trauma (including ACEs) and chronic illness interact in the body Why the nervous system plays a central role in healing chronic fatigue and Long Covid A layperson explanation of sympathetic vs. parasympathetic nervous system states What a Herxheimer (die-off) reaction is and why it can temporarily worsen symptoms Practical, accessible steps listeners can start today to support healing Why healing requires pace, patience, and support, not hustle or perfection  Nervous System, Trauma, and Mental Health This conversation emphasizes a trauma-informed, whole-person lens. Diana and Evan discuss how unresolved infections, inflammation, mold exposure, and environmental stressors can alter neurotransmitters, intensify anxiety and depression, and keep the body stuck in survival mode. Listeners will hear why nervous system retraining, breathwork, gratitude practices, mindset shifts, and lifestyle changes are not "extra" — they are foundational.  Resources & Links Mentioned EnergyMD Method (Dr. Hirsch's practice & masterclass): https://www.energymdmethod.com Is Your Fatigue Fixable? Assessment: https://www.myfatiguescore.com Book: Fix Your Fatigue by Evan H. Hirsch, MD (An overview of his 4-step framework for chronic fatigue and complex illness) Key Concepts Discussed: Long Covid Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Vagus nerve & polyvagal theory Nervous system retraining Breathwork, gratitude, and mindset practices  A Note from Diana If you've been told "everything looks normal" while your body says otherwise — you are not imagining things, and you are not broken. Anxiety and depression are often signals, not verdicts. This episode is an invitation to listen to your body with curiosity instead of shame, to move slowly, and to seek care that honors your whole story.  Listen, Share & Stay Connected If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with someone who feels exhausted, unheard, or discouraged.  Subscribe, rate, and review The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Follow Diana's work at Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Check out the merch store:  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind. 

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice sits down with relationship expert Dr. Marni Feuerman for a deep, practical conversation about Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)—what it is, how it works, and why it has become one of the most researched and effective approaches to couples therapy today. Many people confuse EFT with tapping techniques, but Emotionally Focused Therapy is a structured, evidence-based talk therapy grounded in attachment science, emotional regulation, and interpersonal neurobiology. Dr. Feuerman breaks down the origins of EFT, how it helps couples move out of painful cycles, and why most relationship conflicts are not really about money, chores, or sex—but about emotional safety, connection, and whether we matter to one another. This conversation is especially helpful for: Couples feeling stuck in the same arguments Therapists wanting a clear explanation of EFT in practice Individuals curious about attachment patterns and emotional responsiveness Faith communities and cultures where therapy still carries stigma Listeners will hopefully walk away with hope, clarity, and practical, EFT-informed tools they can begin using right away. What You'll Learn in This Episode What Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is—and how it differs from EFT tapping Who developed EFT and why attachment science matters in adult relationships Why couples often fight about surface issues instead of the real emotional pain underneath How negative interaction cycles become the "common enemy" in relationships What therapists mean by tracking and mapping patterns Why EFT focuses on emotional safety before problem-solving How EFT is used with couples, individuals, and families The difference between emotions and feelings, and why that distinction matters Simple, EFT-inspired shifts anyone can practice—even outside of therapy A message of hope for couples who feel disconnected or discouraged Guest Bio: Dr. Marni Feuerman Dr. Marni Feuerman is a psychotherapist based in South Florida with nearly 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She holds a master's degree in social work and a doctorate in clinical psychology, with specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and couples work. Dr. Feuerman is a clinical supervisor, author, and a widely respected voice on relationships. Her work has been featured in major outlets including Verywell Mind, HuffPost, and The Gottman Institute. She previously served as the marriage expert content writer for About.com and continues to educate the public through media, writing, and clinical practice. She is also the author of Ghosted & Breadcrumbed: Stop Falling for Unavailable Men and Get Smart About Healthy Relationships, a self-help book designed to help women recognize unhealthy relationship patterns and move toward more secure, emotionally available connections. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Book: Ghosted & Breadcrumbed: Stop Falling for Unavailable Men and Get Smart About Healthy Relationships https://a.co/d/08WLFnfP Article by Dr. Marni Feuerman on EFT (Verywell Mind): https://www.verywellmind.com/emotionally-focused-therapy-for-distressed-couples-2303813 Book: Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson https://www.amazon.com/dp/031611300X Attachment Theory (general overview): https://www.simplypsychology.org/attachment.html The ARE Model (Accessible, Responsive, Engaged) – based on EFT principles Explained in Hold Me Tight and EFT literature Key Takeaways Most relationship conflict is rooted in attachment fears, not surface disagreements EFT helps couples externalize the problem by identifying the cycle, not blaming each other Emotional safety must come before communication strategies Change is possible—even when couples feel far apart Learning how to pause, soften, and respond differently can begin rewiring relational patterns About the Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP is a licensed mental health counselor, consultant, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. Through Through the Valley Therapy and Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching, Diana integrates faith, brain science, trauma-informed care, and whole-person healing to help individuals and communities grow with clarity and compassion. Support the Podcast This podcast is independent and ad-free. Each episode takes 3–5 hours to research, record, and produce with care. If this conversation supported you: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Explore the merch store to support this work  Merch Store: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind

If you've ever been told your labs are "normal" while your body feels anything but, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Christine Ruch, Holistic Transformation Guide, to explore Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), autoimmune illness, and the role of the nervous system in healing—through the lived experience of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Christine shares her 20-year journey navigating MS, chronic inflammation, mold exposure, and nervous system overwhelm, and how healing required more than symptom management. Together, Diana and Christine discuss why anxiety, depression, brain fog, and emotional exhaustion are often physiological signals, not personal or spiritual failures. This episode is trauma-informed, faith-aware, and grounded in compassion—without blaming doctors, bypassing symptoms, or promising quick fixes. In This Episode, We Cover: What CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) is and why it's often misunderstood Common CIRS and mold illness symptoms, including anxiety, depression, brain fog, and nervous system dysregulation How autoimmune conditions like Multiple Sclerosis can impact identity, faith, and mental health Why "normal labs" don't always mean a regulated nervous system The emotional toll of navigating complex illness and feeling dismissed What nervous system restoration actually means (beyond calming techniques) The role of trauma, chronic stress, and early adversity in inflammatory illness How to approach healing without self-blame or spiritual bypassing Gentle, practical steps to support your nervous system when you're already exhausted Important Disclaimer This episode is educational and informational only. Diana S. Rice and Christine Ruch are not medical doctors, and nothing shared in this episode is intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. Always consult with licensed and qualified healthcare professionals regarding your individual health needs. Resources Mentioned in This Episode (Links provided for educational purposes only) Christine Ruch – Official Website & Mentorship Programs https://www.christineruch.com/ Surviving Mold (Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker) – CIRS Education & Symptom Clusters https://www.survivingmold.com/ Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS) https://retrainingthebrain.com/ The Gupta Program (Limbic System Retraining) https://www.guptaprogram.com/ Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, MD https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/316790/the-body-keeps-the-score-by-bessel-van-der-kolk-md/ About the Guest Christine Ruch is a Holistic Transformation Guide who supports individuals with chronic and autoimmune conditions in reconnecting with their body's innate wisdom and healing capacity. After spending more than two decades navigating and healing through her own experience with Multiple Sclerosis, Christine integrates whole-food nutrition, nervous system restoration, trauma-informed practices, and spiritual inquiry to help others move beyond symptom management and toward embodied healing. Support the Show If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to The Holistic Counselor Podcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — reviews help this show reach others who feel alone in their healing journey Share this episode with someone who needs language, validation, and hope Podcast Merch Support the podcast and grab meaningful merch here:  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Connect with Diana The Holistic Counselor Podcast explores the intersection of faith, neuroscience, trauma-informed care, and whole-person healing. Thank you for being here—and for choosing curiosity, compassion, and courage on your healing journey.

Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human, and welcome back to The Holistic Counselor Podcast. In Episode 105, I sit down with Tracy Nallery Fultz, a licensed clinical social worker, author, and founder of Heartfelt Needs Counseling and Caring Center, for one of the most honest, clinically grounded, and faith-centered conversations we've had on the show. This episode is for anyone who: Loves Jesus but feels confused, shamed, or silenced by church culture Is trying to disentangle biblical truth from purity culture, fear-based teaching, or spiritual control Has experienced church hurt, sexual shame, or unresolved grief Wants to integrate faith, mental health, nervous system regulation, and emotional honesty—without abandoning Christ This is not about tearing faith down. It is about discernment, healing, and learning how to hold faith and humanity together in a healthier, more honest way. Together, Tracy and I talk openly about: Prolonged singleness and desire Disenfranchised grief (the grief no one names or validates) Shame vs. guilt vs. conviction Purity culture wounds and sexual silence in Christian spaces Using the Fruit of the Spirit as a practical mental-health framework Why relationship with God matters more than rigid religious rules How nervous system dysregulation impacts choices, sexuality, and self-control Why mercy, not fear, is central to healing If you've ever felt like you had to choose between being a "good Christian" and being a real human—this conversation is for you. WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE What disenfranchised grief really is—and why it affects single adults, survivors, and people leaving high-control religious systems Why desire and arousal are not sinful, but often misunderstood How shame becomes an identity attack, not just an emotion The difference between religion-based condemnation and relationship-based conviction How to reframe self-care as biblical self-stewardship, not selfishness Why joy is not constant happiness—but a condition of the soul How trauma, church hurt, and nervous system dysregulation affect sexual behavior How to apply Galatians 5:22–23 (Fruit of the Spirit) to therapy, self-talk, and boundaries POWERFUL QUOTES FROM THE EPISODE Tracy Nallery Fultz "Disenfranchised grief is the grief we carry that no one acknowledges—especially the grief of waiting." "Desire is normal, natural, healthy, and good. The problem isn't desire—it's the environment around it." "Shame as a feeling is one thing. A spirit of shame comes for your identity." "Happiness is an emotion. Joy is a condition of your soul." "Weakness is not your identity. It's an indicator that something is needed." "Religion says condemnation. Relationship says mercy triumphs over judgment." Diana S. Rice "This isn't about deconstruction. It's about discernment and healing." "You have to stop and ask—did this belief come from Scripture, or from someone using Scripture to control you?" "People think they have no choice—but you always have a choice." "Self-control is about agency, not punishment." "Faith without nervous system regulation is incomplete healing." USING THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT AS A HEALING FRAMEWORK Tracy breaks down Galatians 5:22–23 in a clinically practical way: Love → Unconditional self-acceptance Joy → Meaning and gratitude even while grieving Peace → Grounding and calming the nervous system Patience → Allowing healing to be slow and non-linear Kindness → Gentle self-talk instead of self-attack Goodness → Choosing habits aligned with values Faithfulness → Showing up for yourself consistently Gentleness → Soothing the inner critic with empathy Self-Control → Boundaries, agency, and intentional choices Reflection Question: Which fruit do you need most right now—and how can you practice it toward yourself today? RESOURCES MENTIONED (WORKING LINKS) My Journey Solo – Book & Devotional (Tracy Nallery Fultz): https://heartfeltneeds.myflodesk.com/myjourneysolo Heartfelt Needs Counseling & Caring Center: https://heartfeltneeds.com Heartfelt Needs on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartFeltNeeds/ Heartfelt Needs on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartfeltneeds Free Journaling Hour Community (Monthly, First Tuesday): Details available through Tracy's website and email list SUPPORT THE PODCAST (AD-FREE & INDEPENDENT) The Holistic Counselor Podcast is intentionally ad-free so these conversations can stay ethical, trauma-informed, and faith-centered. If this episode helped you, you can support the show by visiting the merch shop:  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Your support helps keep this podcast going without compromising its mission. PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW If this episode resonated, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Reviews help more people find this work—especially those quietly struggling with faith, shame, and healing. DISCLAIMER The Holistic Counselor Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, mental health, or professional counseling advice. Listening does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Diana S. Rice or any guest. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or feel unsafe, please contact your local emergency services or a qualified mental health professional. Remember: Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind.

Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Masters-level Social Worker and Certified Life Coach, Katie Cousins, to explore how family systems, recovery, and access to care shape the outcomes of adolescents, young adults, and their families—especially in moments of crisis. Katie brings over a decade of experience in clinical residential treatment, program development, and community collaboration. Now serving as a Clinical Outreach Specialist for Newport Healthcare, she helps families navigate levels of care, understand systems theory, and access ethical, evidence-based treatment across South Florida. This episode is for listeners searching for support in: family systems, residential treatment for teens, PHP vs. IOP, understanding trauma, South Florida mental-health resources, breaking stigma in recovery, and how to find the right level of care for a struggling loved one. What We Discuss in This Episode What family systems theory is—and why it's not about blaming parents How systems influence behaviors like depression, anxiety, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders Big T trauma vs. little t trauma Why South Florida has such a robust mental-health and recovery ecosystem What a Clinical Outreach Specialist actually does How to know when a child or adult may need a higher level of care Clear explanation of Residential, PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program), and IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) The difference between the visible stigma (opiates) and the silent stigma (alcoholic moms) What "recovery" really means—and why it's more than addiction How accurate fact-finding reduces fear, stigma, and shame for families The role of community, collaboration, and asking better questions Two Powerful Quotes from This Episode From Katie: "Recovery means, I don't want to feel this way anymore, and I'm doing something about it." From Diana: "We go from false evidence appearing real to facing everything and rising." Resources Mentioned & Helpful Links Newport Healthcare (Adolescent & Young Adult Mental Health Treatment) Learn more about programs, levels of care, and family support: https://www.newporthealthcare.com/ Through the Valley Therapy (Diana's private-pay online practice for adults in Florida) https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ The Holistic Counselor Podcast Homepage & Episode Library https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/podcast 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) Call or text 988 for immediate support if you or someone you love is in crisis. Support This Work Each episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast takes hours of research, recording, and trauma-informed production to bring you thoughtful, faith-integrated conversations. If this episode encouraged you or helped expand your understanding of systems, recovery, or family dynamics, one way to support the show is through the merch store: Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this conversation resonated, please consider leaving a review or sharing the episode with someone who may benefit. Your support helps more listeners discover these healing conversations.

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, licensed therapist and host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Jon Waller, LMHC, owner of New River Counseling in Fort Lauderdale, to dive deep into men's mental health, modern masculinity, emotional disconnection, and the cultural pressures that shape how men show up in relationships, faith, and everyday life. Together, Diana and Jon unpack the silent battles many men face—why so many avoid feelings, what creates emotional shutdown, and how "fixer-type" men can learn to communicate differently without feeling weak or ashamed. Jon also explains why spaces like the Red Pill, Groypers, incel forums, and the broader manosphere appeal to young men who feel disconnected, unsupported, or resentful—and what healthier connection can look like. If you're a man who feels stuck, a woman trying to understand the man in your life, or a clinician working with male clients, this episode offers a grounded, trauma-informed, faith-aware conversation that meets men where they are and gives practical tools for growth. Notable Quotes  From Jon: "If what you're into isn't actually helping you feel more loved—especially by a woman—then it might be time to consider there's an alternative out there." From Diana: "Do you want the relationship, or do you want to be right? Because the pursuit of being right often blocks the connection you're actually longing for."   In This Episode We Explore: Why men struggle to talk about emotions and how cultural conditioning reinforces emotional shutdown The difference between anger and rage, and how sadness, shame, or fear often fuel explosive reactions Sarcasm, "I'm just kidding," defensiveness, and stonewalling as covert expressions of unspoken emotion Why younger men increasingly gravitate toward the Red Pill, Groypers, content creators, and manosphere spaces The deep impact of father wounds, mother wounds, intergenerational trauma, and childhood narratives How machismo, faith communities, and family culture shape male emotional expression Masculine and feminine energy as a spectrum—not a rulebook Step-by-step how Jon works with emotionally shut-down men: Behavioral tools Motivational Interviewing (MI) Body scanning + breathwork Naming internal experiences Adlerian and inner-child work A compassionate message for women partnered with withdrawn or avoidant men A direct challenge to men: "Is your current way of coping actually making your life better?" About Today's Guest: Jon Waller, LMHC Jon Waller is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and owner of New River Counseling, specializing in men's emotional health, relationship patterns, and personal growth. With 20+ years of experience, Jon helps men build emotional integrity, break unhelpful patterns, and create deeper connection—without shame. He also serves as an Instructor for The REAL Courses, a weekend personal-development intensive grounded in Adlerian psychology and experiential growth work. Learn more: New River Counseling: https://newrivercounseling.net/ The REAL Courses: https://therealcourses.com/ Mentioned Modalities & Approaches Motivational Interviewing (MI) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Person-centered / Rogers / unconditional positive regard Adlerian experiential therapy Inner child work Psychoeducation and emotional vocabulary building Body scanning + breathwork Attachment dynamics (avoidant, anxious, shut-down patterns) Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care and trauma-informed intention. If this podcast has supported your healing or encouraged you on your journey, you can help keep it independent and ad-free by visiting the merch store. Your purchase directly supports the show and its mission to make mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual wellness accessible worldwide. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please leave a review or share it with someone who would benefit. Your reviews help new listeners discover the show and keep these conversations going. Connect with Diana Through the Valley Therapy: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ Podcast Playlist (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo  

Many people ask the same questions during difficult seasons: What do I do when I'm waiting on God? Why is this taking so long? How do I trust God when nothing is changing? How do I stay grounded when anxiety, comparison, or doubt take over? How do I renew my mind, regulate my emotions, and stay spiritually rooted when I feel stuck? In this episode, licensed therapist and host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS sits down with Dr. Yolle Pierre, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, missionary to Haiti, author, and founder of multiple faith-based healing initiatives. Together, they explore waiting, identity, spiritual formation, emotional resilience, trauma-informed faith, and what it means to abide in Christ when life doesn't go the way you expected. Drawing from her book, While I'm Waiting: 8 Actions to Take During Your Season of Waiting, Dr. Pierre shares how God shaped her through motherhood, ministry, cross-cultural work, illness, fear, and long seasons of silence and uncertainty. This conversation does not promise easy answers. Instead, it offers grounded, biblically rooted, trauma-informed insight into what waiting does inside of us mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Key Topics Covered in This Episode What it means to wait on God when life feels uncertain or delayed How seasons of waiting shape emotional resilience, identity, and worldview The biblical meaning of qavah and the connection between waiting and abiding The difference between hearing God and listening to God How anxiety, fear, and panic show up in waiting seasons How to navigate forced positivity, spiritual bypassing, and church culture pressures The role of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) in renewing the mind Why some people run from God when they are really running from guilt, shame, and legalism What it means to trust God's timing when healing or breakthrough doesn't come quickly How Scripture comes alive during suffering and long developmental seasons Emotional intelligence as part of spiritual formation How waiting affects your thoughts, desires, worldview, and relationships How to hold on to hope without ignoring reality Identity in Christ during painful transitions or silence Powerful Quotes from This Episode Best quote from Dr. Yolle Pierre: "When I look over my life, I see God was quietly molding me in the shadows when I felt forgotten, when I felt unseen." From Diana S. Rice: "Some people think they're running from God, but really they're running from the guilt, shame, and legalism they were raised with." Additional featured quotes: "Waiting isn't passive. It's abiding. It's waiting with anticipation because you trust the Father is good." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "There were seasons when I was waiting and I couldn't even breathe. That's how I relate to my clients." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "When we abide in Christ, His thoughts and our thoughts begin to merge." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "Scripture became real to me when I stopped relying on my intellect and started depending on Him." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "That global pandemic was a global PTSD for many of us." —Diana S. Rice Scriptures Referenced or Alluded To John 15:5 – Abiding in Christ Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord, not your own understanding Philippians 4:8 – Renewing the mind 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – Pray without ceasing Psalm 139:14 – Fearfully and wonderfully made 2 Corinthians 10:5 – Taking thoughts captive Matthew 7:9–11 – God as a good Father Matthew 11:28–30 – Rest, burden, and gentleness About Dr. Yolle Pierre Dr. Yolle Pierre is a follower of Jesus Christ, a missionary to Haiti, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, author, and founder of: Pearl Center for Healing & Growth, LLC Divine Therapeutic Services, Inc. Source of Life (Sous Lavi) in Jacmel, Haiti She has dedicated years to mental health, trauma-informed care, discipleship, and community transformation, including establishing the only mental health community center in Haiti's southeastern region. Her books include: While I'm Waiting: 8 Actions to Take During Your Season of Waiting Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/While-Im-Waiting-Actions-During/dp/B0FW4F6BRD/ Divine Thoughts: Seeking Peace in a Chaotic World Amazon search or her website. Connect with Dr. Pierre: Website: https://www.thepearlcenter.org Listen to More Episodes of The Holistic Counselor Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holistic-counselor/id1732149496 YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo About Your Host: Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS Diana S. Rice is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, Certified Trauma Professional, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. She specializes in Christian integrative mental health, trauma, identity development, nervous system regulation, CBT, IFS-informed work, and whole-person healing. Practice: Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Consulting, trainings, and events: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com Support This Podcast If this episode encouraged you or gave you insight into your own season of waiting, you can support this mission by: Leaving a review on Apple Podcasts Sharing this episode with someone who needs encouragement Visiting the merch store https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/  to help keep the podcast ad-free Closing Reminder As always, don't forget to trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind      

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana sits down with Lori Bergman—South Florida Realtor, former fitness and massage professional, Jewish-background believer in Jesus, and founder of the R.A.D.I.A.N.T. Women's Collective, a Christ-centered wellness community for women. Lori shares how God met her after years of depression, New Age practices, and living in a victim mindset—and how He slowly drew her into a relationship with Jesus, a deeper understanding of Scripture, and a calling to gather women for authentic, faith-rooted connection. Together, Lori and Diana explore the tension between New Age "feel-good" spirituality and biblical truth, the reality of spiritual warfare, the importance of trauma-informed, non-legalistic faith, and why women are craving real community in an age of anxiety, overconnection online, and disconnection in real life. In This Episode, We Explore: How the R.A.D.I.A.N.T. Women's Collective began The exact moment Lori sensed God say, "You need to start a women's health and wellness networking group," and why she knew it had to be Jesus-centered, not just "wellness-branded" community. From Jewish background & New Age practices to Jesus Lori's journey through Wicca, tarot, mediums, crystals, and energy work, and how studying Scripture with mature believers helped her see how Satan counterfeits God's truth. "Feel-good spirituality" vs. biblical truth Why New Age practices can feel like a high—and why Lori now sees them as spiritually dangerous, especially when we're chasing feelings instead of grounding ourselves in God's Word and character. Legalism, shame, and judging other believers Lori and Diana talk candidly about Christian culture that declares, "She's not saved if she's doing X," and how that mindset misses God's patience, discipline, and intimate work in each believer's process. Depression, anxiety & faith: symptom vs. sin Diana explains depression and anxiety as symptoms—the body and brain trying to talk to us—while also acknowledging how rebellion, lifestyle, nutrition, and spiritual disconnection can be part of the root. R.A.D.I.A.N.T. spelled out What it means to be: Rooted in Christ Abundant Living Discipleship & Devotion Inspired Wellness Active Faith Nurturing Community Transformation Together Why women are hungry for authentic, in-person connection From Gen Z social anxiety to scrolling culture and AI-era disconnection, Diana and Lori talk about how younger and older women alike are longing for real tables, real eye contact, and spiritually safe spaces. The heart for homeless women and single moms Lori shares how homelessness—especially for women with children—has been on her heart for 20 years, and her sense that God may lead her to partner in future initiatives that serve this vulnerable population. What actually happens at a R.A.D.I.A.N.T. gathering Why it's not just another networking event, how confidentiality and vulnerability are protected, and why some women have shared stories there they've never shared anywhere else. First steps for the listener who feels stuck in a victim mindset Lori's encouragement for the woman who feels unseen, ashamed, or stuck—and why simply picking up a Bible, praying before you read, and starting somewhere (like Psalm 139 or John) can be a real turning point. Featured Quotes From Lori Bergman: "I spent so much of my life as a victim until I realized that I didn't have to anymore." From Diana S. Rice: "Depression and anxiety are symptoms—your body and your brain trying to talk to you. A disease is a dis-ease. Your body and your brain are trying to talk to you, and it's uncomfortable… so I try to help you get comfortable in the uncomfortable so we can get to the root cause."   Mentioned in This Episode Diana's Work & Links Through the Valley Therapy – Faith-informed online counseling in Florida Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Through the Valley Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching – Trainings, consulting & speaking Website: https://www.transformedmindcc.com Transformed Mind The Holistic Counselor Podcast – YouTube Playlist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@throughthevalleytherapy/playlists youtube.com Podcast Merch Store – Support ad-free, trauma-informed, Christ-centered conversations Merch: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me  Connect with Today's Guest – Lori Bergman Website (Real Estate & Bio): https://loribergman.com Lori Bergman Organizations & Resources Mentioned HOPE South Florida – Faith-based response to homelessness Website: https://hopesouthflorida.org HOPE South Florida+1 Gourmet Garden Café & Juices – Meeting spot for R.A.D.I.A.N.T. gatherings- https://gourmetgardencafe.com/ Address: 6139 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308  Women of Faith – National women's ministry referenced in Lori's story Website: https://www.womenoffaith.com womenoffaith.com+1 Scripture References Psalm 138–139 – God's intimate knowledge, presence, and care. Psalm 139:23–24 – "Search my heart and know my anxious thoughts…" Ecclesiastes – Life as vapor, perspective on seasons and suffering. Gospels / Book of John – Getting to know Jesus and His heart. Ephesians 6 – Spiritual warfare and "not against flesh and blood." If this episode encouraged you, leave a review, share it with a friend, or check out the merch store to help keep the podcast independent, thoughtful, and ad-free.  

Welcome to Episode 100 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS — founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. This Christ-centered, trauma-informed mental health podcast exists to support people navigating trauma, church hurt, anxiety, identity work, nervous system healing, neuroplasticity, and whole-person well-being. This milestone episode is an honest reflection on calling, identity, purpose, and the heart behind the show. In This Episode Diana reflects on: Why This Podcast Exists How a quiet stirring during the pandemic became a global mental-health teaching ministry Why she felt called to reach people beyond one-on-one therapy Why evidence-based + Christ-centered conversations matter right now How Psychology & Faith Integrate Scripture as a grounding foundation How neuroscience affirms biblical truth Practical ways IFS, CBT, and somatic tools support emotional and spiritual renewal Understanding Personality Tools (MBTI + CliftonStrengths) Diana's wiring shapes the warmth, curiosity, and connection listeners feel each week. These tools are not identities or excuses—just mirrors for understanding design and purpose. Explore them here: MBTI Official Assessment: https://www.mbtionline.com Gallup CliftonStrengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx A Dive into Scripture Including: Psalm 139  Proverbs 3:5–6 Proverbs 4:23 Romans 12:2 Galatians 3:28 Plus: Why Ecclesiastes became her companion through depression, identity questions, and seasons of suffering. Episodes & Themes Listeners Have Loved Topics highlighted in this celebration episode include: trauma recovery and nervous system regulation anxiety, burnout, and identity work emotional literacy, boundaries, and somatic healing IFS, parts work, and compassionate inner-world exploration spiritual abuse, Scripture untwisting, and church-hurt recovery teen mental health and trauma narratives body–brain connection and neuroplasticity These themes continue to shape the heart of this community. Practical Tools From This Episode Evidence-based, trauma-informed, and accessible to all: 60-second nervous system reset: inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 6 Thought–Body–Spirit Check-In Gentle IFS "part needs" inquiry CBT cognitive reframe: "What story am I telling myself?" Boundary audit (Proverbs 4:23) Five minutes of stillness and presence Free PDF Resource Holistic Self-Care: A Guide to Natural Wellness for Mental Health Download: https://5a14f5ea-6a63-4c77-bceb-e768c649a5e1.filesusr.com/ugd/c3b403_a8cecb349e72416ab9a689c889818a3d.pdf Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with trauma-informed intentionality. If this podcast has encouraged your growth, your restoration, or your faith, one of the most impactful ways to support the work is through the merch store. Every purchase helps keep this podcast independent, ad-light, and accessible to those navigating trauma, transitions, grief, and spiritual questions. Explore the merch collections: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with a friend. Reviews are one of the most meaningful ways to help others find the show. Connect With Diana Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com/ The Holistic Counselor Podcast (YouTube Playlist) https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo&si=h_A6eN556qSotNfe Instagram | Facebook | YouTube https://linktr.ee/dianasrice  Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health treatment. Listening does not establish a therapist–client relationship. For Florida-based counseling, visit Through the Valley Therapy.  

This episode and these show notes are for educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical, psychiatric, psychological, or legal advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always consult your own licensed healthcare professional before making decisions about your mental or physical health. Listening to this episode does not create a therapist–client or patient–provider relationship with Diana or Jackie. Episode Summary If you've ever wondered what TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) actually is—beyond the headlines and clinical jargon—this conversation offers a grounded and accessible explanation for anyone curious about mental health, brain science, and integrative care. Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Jacqueline "Jackie" Simon, MS, RN, PMHNP-BC, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who integrates evidence-based care, medication management, deprescribing when appropriate, lifestyle approaches, and TMS treatment in her work with clients in Florida and New York. Together, they break down: • What TMS feels like • How it works on the brain • FDA-approved uses (depression, OCD, smoking cessation, and adolescent depression 15+) • Safety, side effects, and who qualifies • How TMS interacts with medication or micro-tapers • Why neuroplasticity matters for long-term change • Myths, fears, and misunderstandings • What to expect from the evaluation process • How to advocate for yourself inside the mental-health system This episode welcomes listeners from all backgrounds—faith, non-faith, clinical, and non-clinical—with clarity, compassion, and zero stigma. Highlighted Quotes (Verbatim) Jackie Simon, PMHNP-BC: "TMS is transcranial magnetic stimulation, and it is indeed a magnet. It stimulates electrical activity between neurons so they can communicate, release neurotransmitters, and support the areas of the brain involved in mood and functioning." Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP: "If your brain needs support, that does not mean your faith is weak. It means your nervous system has been carrying more than it was ever designed to carry alone." What You'll Learn in This Episode • What a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) does • How TMS works in simple, non-technical language • What a first TMS session and evaluation look like • Common myths about TMS vs. ECT • Expected timeline for improvement and remission • Why TMS is noninvasive and often well-tolerated • Why lifestyle, therapy, and relational support still matter • How to talk to your provider if you're curious about TMS • How to spot red flags and green flags in mental-health care • Free, accessible ways to support brain health today Educational Resources Mentioned These links are shared strictly for educational purposes and are not endorsements or medical recommendations. TMS Device Education • MagVenture — https://www.magventure.com • NeuroStar — https://www.neurostar.com • BrainsWay Deep TMS — https://www.brainsway.com Trusted Medical Overviews • Mayo Clinic: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation • Cleveland Clinic: TMS Therapy Overview • NIH/NIMH: Brain Stimulation Therapies Professional Organization • IMMH (Integrative Medicine for Mental Health) Work With Jackie Simon, PMHNP-BC Rising Tide Psychiatry — Telehealth psychiatric care for clients in Florida and New York, offering: • Medication management • Micro-tapers when appropriate • Holistic, integrative support • Referrals for TMS • TMS services available through her partnership with REKO Behavioral Health (Delray Beach)   Connect With Diana • Through the Valley Therapy • Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching • The Holistic Counselor Podcast (YouTube Playlist) Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show. Secondary Disclaimer This episode is for general education only and is not a substitute for individualized professional advice. Do not make changes to medications, supplements, or mental-health treatment without consulting your licensed provider.

What if the foods that shaped your childhood could also heal you? In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Naihomy Jerez—Bronx-raised Dominicana, Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, and host of Let's Be Healthy Latinas: Holistic Wellness with Sazón y Cultura—to unpack how culture, hormones, and gut health intersect with mental wellness. Together they explore:  Why traditional Latina foods aren't the problem—it's about quality, balance & context.  How the gut–brain axis shapes mood, anxiety & focus.  The link between hormones, inflammation, and emotional regulation.  Ancestral nutrition & faith-based healing habits that actually last.  How to drop food shame while honoring your culture and flavor.  Practical micro-habits for busy women—no expensive protocols required.  Key Quotes Diana S. Rice: "Once we realize that we are biology, psychology, and theology all rolled into one, we finally see that mental health, gut health, and spiritual health are inseparable." Naihomy Jerez: "I stopped trying to shrink myself and started nourishing myself — making the foods I love work for me instead of against me."  Resources & Mentions Books Referenced Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself — Dr. William W. Li MD Calm Your Mind with Food — Dr. Uma Naidoo Outlive — Dr. Peter Attia Roar & Next Level — Dr. Stacy Sims The New Menopause — Dr. Mary Claire Haver Podcasts Mentioned Let's Be Healthy Latinas — Naihomy Jerez The Model Health Show — Shawn Stevenson Diary of a CEO — Steven Bartlett The School of Greatness — Lewis Howes Clean Seasoning & Food Brands Badia Organic Adobo 12.75 oz Healthy Rican — Use code naihomy10 for 10% off Loisa Organic Spices & Sazón — Use code naihomyjerez10 for 10% off  About the Guest Naihomy Jerez Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach | Hormone & Gut Health Specialist | Podcast Host  www.naihomyjerez.com  Instagram → @naihomyjerez  About the Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching  The Holistic Counselor Podcast — where faith, science & whole-person healing meet.  Listener Invitation If this conversation spoke to you, please rate and review The Holistic Counselor Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps this free, faith-informed resource reach more people who need hope, tools & truth.

In this powerful episode, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Dr. Tzvi Furer, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, a dual-board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist and founder of Palm Tree Psychiatry. Together, they break down myths about psychiatry, explore the importance of deprescribing and informed consent, and discuss how cultural competence and compassion must guide mental-health care. Dr. Furer shares his journey from training at NYU Langone Health / Bellevue Hospital to building a concierge practice that goes beyond the 15-minute "med check." His approach combines psychotherapy, medication management, medical root-cause testing, and narrative medicine—helping patients feel truly seen, not labeled. Diana and Dr. Furer dive into: The difference between psychiatry, psychology, and therapy What "go low and go slow" prescribing really means Why faith, biology, and psychology belong in the same conversation How to advocate for yourself in a rushed or insurance-limited system The role of storytelling and narrative medicine in healing Root-cause assessment, labs, and integrative collaboration with therapists Practical advice for those who can't afford concierge care but still need hope If you've ever felt disillusioned by medication-only psychiatry or you're craving a faith-informed, science-based approach to mental health, this episode will challenge your perspective and leave you encouraged. Referenced Resources & Links Connect with Dr. Tzvi Furer & Palm Tree Psychiatry:  Website: palmtreepsychiatry.com  Alternate: palmtreepsych.com  Facebook: facebook.com/palmtreepsychiatry  Instagram: @palmtreepsychiatry  X: x.com/palmtreepsych  Threads: threads.com/@palmtreepsychiatry  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/palmtreepsychiatry Books & Mentions: The Body Keeps the Score – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Cognitive Therapy: Basics and Beyond – Judith S. Beck, PhD Love's Executioner – Irvin Yalom, MD The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat – Oliver Sacks The 5 Second Rule – Mel Robbins Related Episodes on The Holistic Counselor Podcast:  Ep. 11 – Unveiling Cultural Competence with Dorothy Chatelier-Orelus, APRN  Ep. 18 – Radical Truths in Mental Health with Dr. Roger McFillin  Ep. 20 – From Pills to Purpose with Dr. Nina Joy Mena  Ep. 67 – Psychiatric Deprescribing & Women's Mental Health with Dr. Amy O'Donnell Episode Highlights Time Topic 03:00 Dr. Furer's journey from NYU Langone to Palm Tree Psychiatry 08:00 Cultural competence and working with diverse communities 13:00 Psychiatry vs. psychology vs. therapy explained 18:00 "Go low and go slow" – rethinking medication management 19:00 Root-cause care and medical workups in mental health 24:00 What concierge psychiatry really means 27:00 Narrative medicine and the power of story 32:00 Deprescribing and self-advocacy in the system 39:00 Practical books and tools for hope and healing 44:00 Final encouragement: take your mental health seriously About the Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP is the founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. As host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana bridges faith, neuroscience, and whole-person healing through authentic, stigma-breaking conversations with experts and advocates.  Join the Movement If this episode encouraged you, please rate, review, and share it with a friend or colleague. Your support helps others find faith-integrated, evidence-based mental-health content that brings hope and healing. Follow Diana on:  Instagram | @theholisticcounselorpodcast

In this powerful conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP—founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching—sits down with Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S, clinician, author, and advocate for reconciliation in divided times. Together, they explore the intersection of politics, mental health, and spiritual healing—without taking sides. Kelsey is the author of The And Way: Assertive Peacemaking in a Divided World (now available for preorder) and co-hosts Love Anyway Gatherings through Search for Common Ground—spaces where people of all backgrounds learn to "talk and listen without losing themselves." From family rifts to online echo chambers, Diana and Kelsey unpack how we can stay human in the middle of the mess and rediscover hope in a polarized world.  Key Topics How internal family systems (IFS) and "parts work" help us understand political and relational conflict The And Way™ model: combining dialectics, compassion, and boundaries Why fear is false evidence appearing real—and how to calm your nervous system when triggered How to practice assertive peacemaking in everyday conversations Recognizing when your "protector parts" are overactivated and learning to respond from Self-energy Reframing conflict as connection: "You don't have to pick the relationship or being right forever—you choose one in each moment." Healing through holistic practices: movement, rhythm, journaling, and nature How media algorithms fuel anxiety—and how to curate your digital diet for mental peace  Featured Quotes "My favorite phrase is, 'It makes sense.' Because it starts with being able to acknowledge my fear makes sense—and their fear makes sense. That's why the AND is so critical." — Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S "We need to remember: United we stand, divided we fall. We can have all the therapy and medication in the world, but until we learn to respond in wisdom instead of reactivity, we'll stay stuck." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP  Resources Mentioned  The And Way Press: https://theandwaypress.com  Search for Common Ground / Love Anyway Gatherings: https://www.sfcg.org  Braver Angels (Mental Health Workshops): https://braverangels.org  All Sides News: https://www.allsides.com  Tangle News: https://www.readtangle.com  Ground News: https://ground.news  What Happened to You by Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey  The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz  Closing Reflection This episode reminds us that healing division starts inside us. Whether you lean red, blue, or "elephonkey purple," the call is the same: humanize before you analyze. As Kelsey says, self-healing leads to world-healing.  Connect Follow Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S: https://theandwaypress.com Learn more about her practice: The And Way Therapy (serving Texas & Florida) Follow Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP:  Through the Valley Therapy  Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching  The Holistic Counselor Podcast on YouTube

Episode Summary Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. I'm your host, Diana S. Rice, licensed mental health counselor and founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. Welcome back to The Holistic Counselor Podcast—the space where faith, science, and holistic healing come together for grounded, real conversations about mental health, purpose, and personal growth. As we enter this Valentine's season, remember: love isn't only something we give—it's something we intentionally cultivate within. The way we nurture our minds, bodies, and spirits shapes how we show up for others—and how we heal. In today's episode, I sit down with Sara Brenker, LCSW, a South Florida-based therapist and co-founder of Modern Care Collective, a practice known for its warm, direct, and collaborative approach to healing. Sara has spent years working as an individual therapist, clinical director, and crisis-stabilization specialist. She integrates CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), strengths-based approaches, and motivational interviewing to help clients rebuild self-worth, address shame, and navigate recovery from addiction and identity loss. This conversation moves through the grey space between faith, trauma, and transformation—and asks us to re-imagine healing as both clinical and spiritual.  Key Themes The connection between addiction, shame, and identity loss How addiction can show up as behavior, people-pleasing, or performance—not just substances Living in the "grey zone" instead of the extremes of shame or denial How faith communities can hold love and disappointment at the same time Why outpatient harm-reduction models save lives How authenticity and selective self-disclosure build trust in therapy Learning to sit still with discomfort and letting healing unfold  Resources Mentioned Modern Care Collective – therapist-run practice based in East Boca Raton, offering outpatient and telehealth care for clients in Florida https://www.moderncarecollective.com/  CBT & DBT explained: CBT helps identify distorted thoughts and create healthier behaviors. DBT teaches distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. The Trevor Project – 24/7 support for LGBTQIA+ youth → thetrevorproject.org SunServe Wilton Manors – South Florida resource for LGBTQ+ affirming mental-health support → sunserve.org Faith-Integrated Therapy – find trauma-informed, holistic Christian-based therapists via openpathcollective.org or psychologytoday.com filters  Takeaways Healing begins with safety. When stories are met with compassion, shame loses power. Faith and therapy coexist. Grace and groundedness are both essential. Addiction hides behind perfection. Even "high-functioning" lives can mask deep pain. Therapist fit matters. Don't give up on therapy—try a different provider or approach. Love is cultivation. The inner work you do becomes the love you offer outwardly.  Connect & Share Follow and tag on socials: #throughthevalleytherapy #theholisticcounselorpodcast #transformedmindcc #holistictherapy #faithbasedcounseling #mentalhealthpodcast #addictionrecovery #shamefree #therapyworks #dbt #cbt #selfhealing #faithandscience  Final Word "To every listener: you're not alone. You're loved. Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind." — Diana S. Rice Listen now on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Playlist → The Holistic Counselor Podcast

Marijuana today is not the same as it was decades ago. In this critical episode, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, sits down with John Puls, LCSW, MCAP—addiction expert, professor, and co‑founder of Full Life Comprehensive Care—to unpack the rising crisis of THC‑induced psychosis in teens and young adults. Drawing from both professional and personal experience, Diana shares her journey from teenage marijuana use in Broward County to her later trial with medical marijuana—and how it affected her mental health. Together, they break down the difference between traditional cannabis and today's lab‑altered THC concentrates, including Delta‑8, dabs, vapes, and edibles. Whether you're a parent, clinician, teacher, or someone navigating your own recovery, this episode offers essential education, compassion, and real‑world tools to protect the next generation. Listen Now Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holistic-counselor/id1732149496 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssTwH8qi9uw Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TesqwMwiVYTeS0Ns9nMLo?si=a2588b2f57ef4b0e About the Guest – John Puls, LCSW, MCAP John Puls is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Master's Certified Addiction Professional. He is the Co‑Founder and COO of Full Life Comprehensive Care in South Florida, an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University, and an expert witness for legal cases involving substance use, addiction facilities, and mental health. Specialties include: Substance use disorders & co‑occurring mental health disorders Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Motivational Interviewing Family Systems Therapy & Trauma‑Informed Care Forensic reviews & expert witness consulting Learn more at https://full-life-comprehensive-care.com/ What We Discuss Diana's personal story: from early marijuana use to medical THC and recovery The difference between old‑school cannabis and today's high‑potency THC products What cannabis‑induced psychosis looks like and why it's often misdiagnosed as schizophrenia How vaping and concentrates drastically raise risk for teens The neurological impact of THC on the developing brain How clinicians can respond even if they don't specialize in substance use Educating parents, teachers, and communities without shame or fear Preventing clinician burnout while working with complex cases The role of early prevention and informed consent in schools and homes Practical tools and resources for healing, regulation, and resilience Mentioned Resources & References Full Life Comprehensive Care – https://full-life-comprehensive-care.com/ Every Brain Matters – https://everybrainmatters.org/ Johnny's Ambassadors – https://johnnysambassadors.org/ SAMHSA (Marijuana & Mental Health) – https://www.samhsa.gov/marijuana CDC Marijuana Health Advisory – https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/index.html Florida Department of Health – Medical Marijuana Program – https://www.flhealthsource.gov/mqa/medical-marijuana/https://knowthefactsmmj.com/ National Institute on Drug Abuse – Cannabis Research – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-are-marijuanas-effects-on-general-physical-healthhttps://nida.nih.gov/search/cannabis%20?sort=_score&language=en Episode 88 with Mark Astor  Key Quotes "Some of these kids get Baker Acted and come out with a schizophrenia diagnosis—but what they're really experiencing is a substance‑induced psychotic episode." — John Puls "I tried medical marijuana thinking I was doing something holistic—and instead, I became more anxious, detached, and dysregulated." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC "Parents don't realize—Delta‑8 isn't your backyard weed. These are ultra‑processed, ultra‑potent THC chemicals. One hit can alter a developing brain." — John Puls Connect with John Puls Website: https://full-life-comprehensive-care.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-puls-800261123/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/full_life_cc/ Related Episodes Ep 88: Baker Act, Marchman Act & Guardianship in Florida with Mark Astor Subscribe & Share If you found this episode helpful: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Share it with a parent, educator, or fellow clinician Follow and tag: #throughthevalleytherapy #theholisticcounselorpodcast #transformedmindcc Podcast Mission The Holistic Counselor Podcast bridges faith, science, and holistic healing—challenging stigma, equipping listeners with tools for growth, and encouraging trauma‑informed conversations across diverse communities.

Host: Diana S. Rice — Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Guest: Sindy Love — Present Mama Coach, founder of Live Loved Mom, host of the top-10% Live Loved Mom podcast Why listen: New year, fresh grace. If you're a Christian mom battling mom guilt, hurry, hustle, and comparison, this episode blends faith + brain-based tools to help you renew your mind, abide in Christ, and build real-life rhythms that actually work. Episode at a Glance (What You'll Learn) The 3-step faith framework for mom guilt: Renew (Romans 12:2), Abide (John 15), Connect (biblical community). How cPTSD/trauma & culture can shape mom guilt—and what healing looks like with Scripture, therapy/coaching, and community. Presence practices for busy moms: micro-Sabbaths, breathwork, weekly/monthly "refuel" rhythms, and Scripture-anchored reframes. Coaching vs. counseling: clear scope, red flags that mean "therapy first," and how both can work together ethically. The mindset shift from performance-based to surrender-based motherhood (Galatians 1:10). Quality Quotes  (Diana S. Rice) "Think of me as your psycho-educational trainer." "If you don't make the time for your wellness, you're going to be forced to make time for your illness." (Sindy Love) "I call myself a recovering people pleaser." "You are perfectly loved, you are free, Mama, walk in freedom." Resources & Links Mentioned (Everything in One Place) Sindy Love Present Mama Coaching & free 3-day devotional: https://livelovedmom.com Live Loved Mom Podcast (start with Ep. 75 featuring Diana): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/75-motherhood-mental-health-faith-based-healing-and/id1744966331?i=1000728394824 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelovedmom/ Diana S. Rice Through the Valley Therapy (clinical): https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching: https://transformedmindcc.com The Holistic Counselor Podcast playlist (YouTube): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo&si=h_A6eN556qSotNfe Tools & Education ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Questionnaire (overview + questionnaire): https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html "Brain health" framing (Daniel Amen): https://www.amenclinics.com "Emotional concussions" (Dr. Don Wood / Inspired Performance): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ Community MomCo (formerly MOPS) — local mom groups: https://www.momco.org  Books (mentioned in this episode) Women of the Word — Jen Wilkin (how to read Scripture in context) https://www.crossway.org/books/women-of-the-word-tpb/ Uninvited — Lysa TerKeurst (rejection, people-pleasing, identity) https://www.zondervan.com/p/uninvited/ The Gift of Being Yourself — David G. Benner (true self in Christ, spiritual formation) https://www.ivpress.com/the-gift-of-being-yourself  Scriptures Referenced Romans 12:2 (renewing the mind) John 15 (abide in the vine) John 10:10 (life to the full) Romans 8:1 (no condemnation) Luke 5:16 (Jesus withdrew to pray) Galatians 1:10 (audience of One) Psalm 46:10 (be still) Networks/Origin Story Women's Leadership Network (GLN): https://globalleadership.org Key Topics & Timestamps 00:02:37 — Sindy's early mom-guilt story: anxiety from pregnancy through daycare/school decisions; roots in childhood trauma. 00:06:15 — Social media + comparison: pressure cooker for modern moms; the need to process cPTSD with faith and skills. 00:21:54 — The 3-Step Process: Renew thoughts with God's Word → Abide in Jesus → Connect in community. 00:31:59 — Martha mode vs. Mary posture: moving from performance to surrender; asking "am I pleasing people or God?" 00:45:28 — Coaching vs. Therapy: Sindy's scope as a coach, referral to counseling when trauma/postpartum flags are present. 00:53:17 — Stillness & Sabbath: breathwork, Scripture in context, micro-rest to actually hear the Lord. 00:58:25 — Closing encouragement: freedom from guilt and shame in Christ; Romans 8:1. Practical Takeaways (Save These) Daily 3-Minute Reset: 30s breath (inhale 4, exhale 6) → 60s Scripture reframe (Rom. 12:2 / John 15) → 60s gratitude prayer → 30s next right step. Weekly/Monthly Refuel: schedule one weekly joy practice (beach walk, call a friend) and one monthly extended reset (half-day retreat or extended prayer walk). Put it on the calendar. Reframe Prompt: When shame hits: "Are these thoughts true? Do they agree with God's Word?" Then replace with Scripture. Connection Rule: Don't do motherhood alone—find a MomCo group or a local church small group. Scope Check: If you notice persistent depression, postpartum concerns, trauma flashbacks, or safety issues—start with therapy; add coaching later for goals/habits. About Our Guest Sindy Love is a Christian Life Coach, wife, boy mom, and founder of Live Loved Mom. Her Present Mama Coaching helps Christian moms release guilt, embrace purpose, and cultivate presence in Christ. She hosts the Live Loved Mom podcast (top 10% globally). About Your Host Diana S. Rice is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. Her mission: glorify God, break mental-health stigma in churches and BIPOC communities, and offer  evidence-informed tools for whole-person healing. Work with Sindy / Freebies Sindy's free 3-day devotional + coaching info: https://livelovedmom.com

In this conversation, Anna Marie Lopes—abuse-recovery & post-traumatic growth coach, founder of Brave & Free, and Engagement Director at the Healing & CPTSD Community Hub—shares her journey from witnessing domestic violence and surviving an abusive marriage to building a global community that helps survivors reclaim voice, identity, and freedom. We talk CPTSD vs. PTSD, spiritual abuse, self-advocacy in healthcare, and practical nervous-system regulation tools that supported her healing, all through a faith-informed lens. Mission fit: The Holistic Counselor Podcast exists to break stigma in churches and BIPOC communities by bridging faith, science, and holistic wellness—and Anna's story models that integration in real life. What you'll learn What CPTSD can look/feel like day-to-day—and why many survivors only get "anxiety/depression" labels How spiritual abuse hides in plain sight, and how to disentangle faith from manipulation Practical tools Anna used to move through flashbacks, hypervigilance, and body memories How community care (support circles, survivor-led spaces) accelerates healing When coaching helps, when licensed therapy is essential, and how they work together A faith-anchored reframe: separating God's character from people who misuse scripture Notable quotes (Anna) "Be your own brave. The next courageous step is yours—and it may look different than anyone else's." "For me, the first thing was to differentiate God from men… just because someone uses the Bible doesn't mean God is a reflection of that person." "It was as if I was in a constant state of danger—hypervigilant… then the flashbacks and nightmares started." "I've been in therapy and on medication for over 10 years—healing is a long journey." "Self-advocacy matters. Trust your gut. If a diagnosis doesn't fit, keep asking questions." Notable quotes (Diana) "Hey there, fearfully and wonderfully made humans." "We're never going to receive 100% healing on this side of Earth… If we did, I would not need Jesus Christ as my Savior." "Sometimes we chase the healing… and that becomes an idol." "Every human is raised by a village—and if the village has unhealthy dynamics, it's going to affect you." "You gotta get into the Word. Yourself. Not just what someone else says." "I have a hundred tools. I don't know which will work for you—I'm here as a guide." "Turn off that rectangle that's wrecking people. Be still and know… journal what comes up." "Be a curious observer of yourself—without shame." "Please trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind." Links & resources mentioned Connect with Anna Instagram — @iambraveandfree: https://www.instagram.com/iambraveandfree Coaching w/ Anna (abuse-recovery & post-traumatic growth): https://braveandfree.co/trauma-coaching Rediscovering Yourself After Abuse (e-workbook): https://braveandfree.co/rediscoveringyourself CPTSD education & community Healing & CPTSD Community Hub: https://www.healingandcptsd.com/ Free CPTSD Awareness Kit (The Healing & CPTSD Foundation): https://www.healingandcptsd.com/free-guides  DV identification & safety Power & Control Wheel (Duluth Model): https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wheels/understanding-power-control-wheel/ PDF: https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/PowerandControl.pdf The Hotline (U.S., 24/7): https://www.thehotline.org/ | Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | Text START to 88788 UAE help & reporting (includes helplines like DFWAC 800-111): https://gulfnews.com/living-in-uae/safety-security/how-to-report-domestic-violence-in-the-uae-and-get-help-1.500207174 Official UAE emergency guidance: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/justice-safety-and-the-law/handling-emergencies Dubai Foundation for Women & Children (DFWAC): https://findahelpline.com/countries/ae/du/topics/abuse-domestic-violence Maitri (culturally-specific support for South Asian survivors, U.S.): https://maitri.org/ Books we referenced The Body Keeps the Score — Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/313183/the-body-keeps-the-score-by-bessel-van-der-kolk-md/ Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving — Pete Walker (incl. 13 Steps for Managing Flashbacks): https://pete-walker.com/complex_ptsd_book.html | https://www.pete-walker.com/13StepsManageFlashbacks.htm Twisted Scriptures: Breaking Free from Churches That Abuse — Mary Alice Chrnalogar: https://www.amazon.com/Twisted-Scriptures-Mary-Alice-Chrnalogar/dp/0310234085 Related episodes on this theme  Ep 10 — Overcoming Domestic Violence: Biblical, Christian & Secular Counseling (Dr. Johnson) Ep 58 — Exposing Abuse in the Church (Rebecca Davis) Ep 66 — Escaping Spiritual Abuse & Church Trauma (Sowania Germain) Ep 90 — Christian Spiritual Abuse & Recovery (Naghmeh  Abedini Panahi) Safety note If you're in immediate danger, call local emergency services. In the U.S., contact The Hotline 24/7: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | thehotline.org | text START to 88788. In the UAE, DFWAC 800-111 and the official channels above can help. You are not alone.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) aren't just "therapist jargon"—they're evidence-based tools you can use today to renew your mind, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and live with more clarity and confidence. In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS talks with Dr. Lisa Napolitano—licensed psychologist, mindfulness teacher, and President of the Florida CBT Association—about reframing stigma in therapy, tackling perfectionism and imposter syndrome, and practicing self-validation. This conversation offers practical tools you can use right now to reshape your thoughts, regulate your emotions, and create a life worth living. Quotes from the Episode Diana: "Because when we challenge our thoughts, we transform our behaviors, and in turn, our lives." Diana: "Do not forget to trust in the Lord, guard your heart. And renew your mind." Dr. Napolitano: "The most powerful way… to change your behavior is positive reinforcement, not beating yourself up, not chastising yourself." Dr. Napolitano: "To effectively treat suicidality, we've got to get people invested in life. Help them build what she calls the life worth living, a life that reflects your values." Key Topics Covered The Two-Column Technique for overcoming imposter syndrome and confirmation bias Common cognitive distortions like mind-reading, "should" statements, and personalization How perfectionism feeds analysis paralysis—and the Continuum Technique to break free DBT skills: mindfulness, self-validation, and building a life aligned with your values Why exercise and mindfulness are first-line supports for anxiety and depression Resources Mentioned  Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns, MD → Amazon link  Never Good Enough: How to Use Perfectionism to Your Advantage Without Letting It Ruin Your Life by Monica Ramirez Basco → Amazon link  The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook by Matthew McKay, Jeffrey Wood, Jeffrey Brantley → Amazon link  Free CBT Thought Record Worksheet (Beck Institute) → Download PDF  List of Cognitive Distortions (Therapist Aid) → View Here  Meditation App — Insight Timer (free)  Fitness/Mood Tracking — Strava Connect with Dr. Lisa Napolitano Website: drlisanapolitano.com Instagram: @drlisasays CBT/DBT Associates: cbtdbtassociates.com Florida CBT Association: floridacbt.org Connect with Diana Therapy (Florida residents): Through the Valley Therapy Consulting & Events: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Podcast Playlist (YouTube): The Holistic Counselor Podcast  If this episode encouraged you, please rate and review on Apple Podcasts so others can find faith-aligned, evidence-based support. And don't forget to share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today.

In this deeply vulnerable episode, Christian therapist Diana S. Rice, LMHC interviews Naghmeh Abedini Panahi about the untold story behind the Save Saeed movement. She reveals how her role as a public advocate concealed the trauma she was enduring, and how she slowly recognized spiritual, emotional, and physical abuse. We discuss how purity culture can mute God-given alarms, why "submit at all costs" is destructive, and what faith-rooted healing really looks like. If you've ever felt unseen in your trauma or silenced by church structures, this is for you. This episode includes sensitive discussion of domestic violence and spiritual abuse. What You'll Hear / Learn The hidden abuse behind public ministry and advocacy How purity culture suppresses internal warning systems Distinguishing biblical submission from enabling sin The ways churches often protect appearances at the expense of people Practical steps toward safety, boundaries, and healing after abuse Recommended books, ministries, and frameworks for recovery Quotes Naghmeh Abedini Panahi "You're not supposed to submit to abuse and corruption." "Follow your Savior, do what He does, and God will fight your battles." Diana S. Rice, LMHC "It's become a high-controlling religion, and not the pure relationship of Jesus Christ, who does set us free." "It's like your check engine light is on… until your body finally shuts down." Resources & Links Mentioned Helplines & Safety National Domestic Violence Hotline — call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788. thehotline.org Women in Distress (Broward County, FL) — local 24/7 support, advocacy & shelter: widbroward.org Faith-Based / Christian Support Called to Peace Ministries — spiritual abuse resources, church training, survivor support calledtopeace.org Tahrir Alnisa Foundation (TAF) — ministry by Naghmeh supporting women and children impacted by abuse tahriralnisa.org  Books & Frameworks for Recovery The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft The Emotionally Destructive Marriage by Leslie Vernick Is It Abuse? by Darby Strickland Power & Control Wheel (Duluth Model PDF) — helps map abusive dynamics [PDF link] Related Episodes from The Holistic Counselor Ep. 10: Untangling the Threads: Biblical, Christian, and Secular Counseling — Overcoming Domestic Violence (Dr. Kate Johnson) Ep. 58: Exposing Abuse in the Church (Rebecca Davis) Ep. 65: Healing Trauma Through Faith: How to Reclaim Identity & Hope (Rebecca Medina) Ep. 70: Leaving an Abusive Christian Marriage (Leesha Newkirk, JD) Ep. 77: Reclaiming Biblical Sexuality After Trauma & Purity Culture (Dr. Carol Tanskey) Call to Action If you were moved by this conversation: Share this episode with someone who may need to hear the hope you're hearing. Bookmark the resources above — especially hotlines and Christian support ministries. Subscribe + review The Holistic Counselor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your app of choice. Your ratings and shares help others find this content in search. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call your local emergency number or reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline—don't walk this path alone.

On this New Year's Eve episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Dr. Don Wood, PhD, creator of the TIPP (Inspired Performance Program), to explore how unresolved trauma becomes a "high-definition" memory loop and how a 4–5 hour TIPP session plus 30 days of audio can reboot the brain for calm and performance. We unpack emotional concussions, the role of faith and culture in healing, and practical tools you can apply today—without shame. Perfect for clinicians, church leaders, and anyone seeking trauma-informed, integrative mental health. Standout Quotes "There's nothing wrong with you. Anxiety, depression, addiction—those are symptoms, not your identity." — Dr. Don Wood "Trauma is stored in high definition. When we reset the resolution, the nervous system stops calling for action on old information." — Dr. Don Wood "We don't paint over rust—we sand it down, prime it, then paint." — Dr. Don Wood "God designed us to heal. The question is: what's interfering with the healing?" — Diana S. Rice Resources Mentioned Inspired Performance Institute (IPI) – Home: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ TIPP Digital (30-day program): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/tipp-digital/ About Dr. Wood / IPI: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/about-us/ In-Person & Zoom Sessions (Orlando): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/in-person/ Books by Dr. Don Wood Emotional Concussions  You Must Be Out of Your Mind  Don't Mess With My DNA — new title (coming soon; watch IPI updates): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ Episodes & Articles Mentioned Kwik Brain w/ Dr. Don Wood (the interview that sent Diana down the rabbit hole): https://www.jimkwik.com/podcasts/kwik-brain-transforming-stressful-life-events-into-motivation-with-dr-don-wood/ Brainz Magazine – Trauma & DNA (Executive Contributor, Dr. Wood): https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/the-impact-of-trauma-on-dna-understanding-the-transgenerational-effects Brainz Magazine – Healing Trauma & Rebooting Biology (2025): https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/healing-trauma-and-restoring-youth-with-a-therapy-that-reboots-your-biology Connect with Dr. Don Wood Website & Programs: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ TIPP Digital: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/tipp-digital/ In-Person / Zoom (Orlando): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/in-person/ Connect with Diana Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS — Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. Mission: Breaking mental-health stigma in Black/Brown communities and church spaces by bridging evidence-based therapy, holistic wellness, and faith. Subscribe, rate, and share to help others find trauma-informed, faith-honoring care. Happy New Year! 

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide, mental health crisis, and involuntary commitment. Need Help Now? Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) — available 24/7, free and confidential support. For Florida-specific help, contact 211.org or your local mobile crisis unit.  "We are not here to hurt people—we're here to help them. And sometimes, that means telling the hard truth." – Mark Astor On this special Christmas Eve episode, Diana sits down with Mark Astor, a behavioral health attorney and former prosecutor, for a deep, transparent conversation about Florida's most misunderstood legal tools: The Baker Act The Marchman Act Guardianship Law As therapists, clinicians, and families navigate the complexities of crisis care and involuntary intervention, this episode offers a non-judgmental, trauma-informed lens on what these laws really mean, when they should be used, and how they can be misused. If you work with teens, adults with co-occurring disorders, or simply want to understand how Florida law intersects with mental health, this episode is a must-listen.  What You'll Learn: The key differences between the Baker Act vs. Marchman Act How the Guardianship statute is being used in younger populations Why clinicians must understand their legal power—and its consequences How to protect client rights without abandoning ethical care The risks of profit-driven crisis facilities and what sovereign immunity really means Real stories of misused legal action, trauma, and redemption What to do if a loved one has been detained, misdiagnosed, or neglected in the system  Resources Mentioned: Mark's Website: MentalHealthAddictionLawFirm.com BakerActAttorneys.com Office Phone: 561-419-6095 Follow Mark on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, IG, and TikTok  Notable Quotes: "The Marchman Act is not a punishment. It's a last-resort tool for families whose loved one's brain has been hijacked by addiction." – Mark Astor "You're not alone. I promise you—there are people who want to help, but you have to pick up the phone." – Mark Astor "I've seen teens Baker Acted who come out with more trauma than they went in with. This isn't a dig at the law—it's a cry for wisdom in how we apply it." – Diana Rice "Recovery is like the stock market—up and down, but trending up if we support it right." – Mark Astor "Faith without action in these systems doesn't protect our clients. We must be both wise and willing to learn." – Diana Rice  A Holiday Reflection from Diana: "Christmas can stir up both joy and pain. If you're listening to this today, remember—healing doesn't stop for the holidays. Sometimes the most loving gift we can give is the courage to take action, even when it's hard."  Listen & Share: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you stream.  Subscribe to The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Follow on Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS sits down with Lidiana Cartolano, LMHC, M.Ed.—a bilingual Portuguese/English therapist and founder of VIVA Psychotherapy in Boca Raton, Florida. Together, they discuss the unique mental health challenges faced by Brazilians and Portuguese-speaking immigrants, including immigration stress, family role pressures, cultural stigma, OCD, and faith-based misunderstandings. Lidiana also shares practical tools such as TF-CBT, play therapy, sandtray, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). This conversation also highlights the Brazilian Mental Health Professionals Collective (BMHP)—the first organized network of its kind in the U.S., designed to increase access to culturally sensitive mental health providers who serve the Brazilian community. As the year comes to a close, this episode invites you to reflect on the importance of community, culture, and connection in your own mental health journey. Featured Quotes "If God gives us doctors to heal our bodies, He also gives us therapists to heal our minds." — Lidiana Cartolano, LMHC "A regulated parent can help regulate a child—but when the parent is dysregulated, that's often an unhealed part of themselves showing up." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC Resources & Links Mentioned Brazilian Mental Health Professionals Collective (BMHP): www.bmhp.org VIVA Psychotherapy (Lidiana's practice): www.vivapsychotherapy.com Conexão Presente (Portuguese MBSR / Mindfulness playlist): YouTube Playlist The Holistic Counselor Podcast (Diana's podcast website): www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Book Mentioned: When Narcissism Comes to Church by Chuck DeGroat Episode Chapters 0:00 — Intro, year-end reflection, review/share CTA 2:30 — Lidiana's journey: Psychologist in Brazil → LMHC in the U.S. 10:00 — Immigration stress: breadwinner pressure, family role shifts, burnout 13:30 — Second-generation struggles: bullying, perfectionism, OCD 21:30 — Family systems in therapy: play therapy & sandtray 31:00 — Cultural fit: language, spirituality, warmth in the therapy room 36:00 — Tools & modalities: TF-CBT, MBSR, play therapy, sandtray 54:00 — Brazilian Mental Health Professionals Collective (BMHP) 1:05:00 — Portuguese closing message & resources 1:07:00 — Outro Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate & review the show and share it with a friend. Your support helps others—especially in Brazilian and Portuguese-speaking communities—find culturally aligned care and resources.   Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Summary Feeling numb, burned out, or stuck in your head? In this episode, Cathy Williams, a Movement & Expressive Arts Therapist and founder of Intuitive Self in Melbourne, Australia, shares how somatic therapy, intuitive movement, and expressive arts can help you reconnect with your body, regulate emotions, and release stored trauma. We explore body mapping, breathwork, music-supported healing, vicarious trauma, and embodied social justice—all through a faith-friendly, evidence-informed lens. About Our Guest Cathy Williams is a Movement & Expressive Arts Therapist, facilitator, trainer, and award-winning author. She founded Intuitive Self and works with adults worldwide through workshops and 1:1 sessions. Her book, Body Wisdom: A Guide to Connecting with Your Intuitive Self, blends story, poetry, and practical guidance for reconnecting with body and heart. Website: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/ About Cathy: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/about-cathy Book (paperback/e-book): https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/product-page/book-body-wisdom Audiobook (Google Play): https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details/BODY_WISDOM_A_guide_to_connecting_with_your_Intuit?hl=en_US&id=AQAAAEDSLStt6M Audiobook (Libro.fm): https://libro.fm/audiobooks/9798882345166-body-wisdom Audiobook (Barnes & Noble): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/body-wisdom-cathy-williams/1144490979 Key Topics & Timestamps 00:00 — Show intro and mission 02:45 — Cathy's "why": from community development to somatic & arts-based work 11:20 — What somatic movement therapy is (and isn't) 20:30 — For numb/disconnected clients: breath as anchor; gentle body scan 24:50 — Body mapping: turning sensations into color/shape 33:10 — Music as a container for safe exploration 46:10 — The Five Rhythms arc: Flow → Staccato → Chaos → Lyrical → Stillness 55:30 — Embodied social justice: how systems live in the body 1:03:36 — Cathy's book Body Wisdom and how to work with her online 1:11:52 — Closing encouragement: "Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, renew your mind." Try-It-Today Tools 60-Second Breath Check — Notice your breath without changing it. Micro Body Scan — Crown → jaw → shoulders → chest → belly → hips → knees → feet. Body Map Card — Draw a simple outline and mark sensations with colors/lines. Song-Length Intuitive Move — Let one body part lead to instrumental music. Anger Circuit — 30s stomping + 30s shaking + 6 deep breaths + journaling. Resources Mentioned Tamalpa Institute (Anna & Daria Halprin): https://www.tamalpa.org/ 5Rhythms (Gabrielle Roth): https://www.5rhythms.com/gabrielle-roths-5rhythms/ Amber Elizabeth Gray: https://ambergray.com/ Documentary Born Into Brothels: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0388789/ Work With Cathy Global 1:1 sessions and practitioner trainings: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/ Work With Diana / Media Therapy (Florida only) — Through the Valley Therapy Consulting, Coaching & Events — Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching Podcast guest pitches — mission-aligned only (faith + science + holistic healing).  Contact Diana: [email protected] Sponsors — Partner With Us Our audience: clinicians, coaches, faith-informed wellness seekers, community leaders. Perfect fit: CEU platforms, mental health tech, somatic/breathwork trainings, ethical supplements, counseling resources, journaling tools, clean wellness brands.  Media kit & inquiries: [email protected] (Subject: "Sponsor — Holistic Counselor Podcast")

 Welcome, fearfully and wonderfully made human! This episode is more than just educational—it's deeply personal. Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, shares how a YouTube rabbit hole back in 2020 (after someone she loves was diagnosed with OCPD) unexpectedly led her to Darryl Rossignol's videos. Fast-forward five years later—she realized the man behind that life-changing content is now sitting across from her, mic-to-mic. In this full-circle, faith-filled conversation, Diana and Darryl explore the lesser-known but incredibly impactful world of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD). Together, they unpack the core traits, how it differs from OCD and narcissism, the stigma around getting help, and how healing is possible.  About Today's Guest: Darryl Rossignol After struggling with OCPD traits since childhood, Darryl spent over a decade deconstructing his personality disorder and putting the pieces back together. In 2015, he launched a YouTube channel to document his healing journey. The videos reached tens of thousands—offering language, clarity, and hope to those suffering in silence. In 2022, Darryl founded The OCPD Foundation with the support of leading mental health professionals. The foundation is now a central hub for education, resources, and support for individuals living with OCPD and those who love them.  What We Cover in This Episode: What is OCPD? How does it differ from OCD? Why is it so often misdiagnosed, dismissed, or misunderstood? Why is it hard for those with OCPD to seek therapy? How can OCPD affect relationships and faith communities? OCPD vs. narcissistic traits: what's the real difference? How can partners, clinicians, and family members support someone with OCPD? The role of self-awareness and spiritual growth in recovery Darryl's full-circle story of transformation and advocacy  Quotes to Remember:  Darryl Rossignol (Founder, The OCPD Foundation) "It's not that I had OCD—I had OCPD. And the distinction between the two changed everything about how I understood myself." "Healing from OCPD isn't about becoming someone else. It's about learning how to manage your wiring, so you can stop hurting yourself and the people you love."  Diana S. Rice, LMHC "I was watching your YouTube videos five years ago, not realizing that God would bring this full circle—and now I get to talk to the person who helped me make sense of it all." "As therapists, we often overlook OCPD because it doesn't look like what we're trained to spot. But for the client, it's a constant internal war of 'not enough."  Resources & Mentions:  The OCPD Foundation — articles, videos, screening tools, therapist directory  Darryl's YouTube Channel  POPS Self-Assessment  The Healthy Compulsive by Dr. Gary Trosclair  DSM-5-TR Diagnostic Criteria for OCPD (APA)  OCD vs OCPD  Feeling Seen? Here's What to Do Next: Subscribe to the podcast & leave a review! Share this episode with a friend, spouse, or therapist Visit ocpd.org to take the self-assessment or explore support tools Connect with Darryl via YouTube or email: [email protected] Need therapy in Florida? Learn more at ThroughTheValleyTherapy.com Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. I'm Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, and the host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast—where faith, science, and holistic healing intersect. Today's episode is especially for first responders—and the loved ones who support them. Whether you serve as police, firefighter, EMS, paramedic, military, nurse, therapist, or teacher—you know the toll trauma takes. Even those of us who aren't running into burning buildings feel the weight of vicarious trauma in our daily callings to serve. That's why I'm honored to welcome Steve Campana, Hanley Foundation's First Responder Liaison and retired EMS Captain from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Alongside his therapy dog, Mac, Steve now helps first responders and veterans struggling with addiction, PTSD, and substance use disorders find healing and hope. What You'll Learn in This Episode Steve's journey: From a 12-year-old police cadet to serving 30+ years in Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. The hidden toll of trauma: Pediatric codes, car wrecks, shootings, and vicarious trauma that first responders carry. Addiction in the firehouse culture: Why "suck it up, buttercup" led to self-medicating and how recovery changed Steve's life. The Big Book of AA: Why recovery is a spiritual program rooted in humility, not just abstinence. Hanley Center's approach: Trauma-informed, 12-step immersive care that includes CBT, DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy. The Patriots Initiative: Specialized peer groups for first responders, veterans, and ER professionals. Therapy dogs in recovery: How Mac the therapy dog provides comfort, connection, and hope on campus and in children's hospitals. Tools for leaders: How firehouses, EMS teams, and police departments can create cultures where "I'm not okay" is safe to say. Resources & Links Mentioned Hanley Foundation & Hanley Center Website: Hanley Foundation Programs: Hanley Center Treatment Services Alumni Services & Patriots Initiative information available through Hanley Recovery & Trauma Resources Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book: Read Online EMDR Therapy: EMDR International Association DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy): Learn More Here CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Patient Pamphlets Therapy Dogs & Certification American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Alliance of Therapy Dogs Paws & Stripes Emergency Support & Peer Groups Alcoholics Anonymous – Find a Meeting Al-Anon Family Groups National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Contact Steve Campana (Hanley Center First Responder Liaison)  Phone: 561-841-1171 About Today's Guest: Steve Campana Steve is a retired EMS Captain with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue and now serves as the First Responder Liaison at Hanley Foundation. With over 30 years of frontline experience, he understands the culture, struggles, and resilience of first responders. Having overcome his own battles with addiction, Steve now walks alongside first responders and veterans in recovery—offering practical resources, peer support, and hope. Together with his therapy dog, Mac, he brings comfort to those carrying invisible wounds. About Your Host: Diana S. Rice I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP), and Qualified Supervisor (QS). Through The Holistic Counselor Podcast, I explore the intersection of faith, science, and holistic healing. My mission is to break the stigma around mental health—especially in faith communities and BIPOC cultures—and empower people to heal with evidence-based tools and Christ-centered hope.  Website: Through the Valley Therapy  YouTube: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Playlist  Email: [email protected]     Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

"Cancer has been on my radar for decades," shares host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, who has lost her father, sister, mother, and even a childhood friend to the disease. In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Diana sits down with Paul Leendertse, author and founder of the Root Cause Institute, and his wife and co-facilitator Aria Konrad, to explore the 15-Step Real-Self Healing Process — a psycho-emotional approach to cancer that challenges conventional thinking while honoring every individual's journey. Paul, who has spent over 17 years mapping the link between unresolved emotional stress and cancer, reveals patterns he's observed after working with late-stage cancer clients in immersive settings: "Yes, cancer can disappear when you resolve the root cause." Aria adds, "It's not always about quitting everything and moving across the country — sometimes healing starts with a conversation that restores peace in your relationships or routines." In this conversation, you'll learn: How unresolved trauma, chronic stress, and repressed emotions like shame, grief, or anger can impact physical health. Why mind-body-soul alignment is essential for both healing and prevention. What each of the 15 steps addresses, and why forgiveness isn't until Step 11. How this process can complement (not replace) conventional cancer treatments. The surprising emotional patterns linked to specific cancers, including colon, breast, and lung cancer. Diana also shares insights from Chris Wark's Chris Beat Cancer, Bruce Lipton's Biology of Belief, and Bessel van der Kolk's The Body Keeps the Score, connecting the dots between neuroscience, neuroplasticity, and holistic faith-based counseling. Exact quotes from this episode: "You're fearfully and wonderfully made, and you're image-bearers of God. We all have our own unique biology, psychology, and theology." – Diana S. Rice "We have to acknowledge what's not good for us before we can truly heal." – Aria Konrad "Neither the conventional nor the alternative physical approaches get to the root cause — because the root cause isn't physical." – Paul Leendertse Resources mentioned in this episode: Root Cause Institute – Online courses, Root Cause Assessment, and the 15-Step Real-Self Healing Process The Root Cause of Cancer by Paul Leendertse (2010) – Available here Chris Beat Cancer by Chris Wark Biology of Belief by Dr. Bruce Lipton The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Free Webinars & Interviews – Root Cause Institute Free Resources   Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show. Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Welcome to The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Human. I'm your host, Diana S. Rice, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, and curious soul who's always asking why. This podcast merges faith, psychology, and whole-person healing—helping you feel loved, understood, and equipped to walk out your God-given purpose. If you're new here, I encourage you to go back and listen to past episodes—including Episode 77, Reclaiming Biblical Sexuality After Trauma & Purity Culture with Dr. Carol Tanksley. Every conversation is a doorway to deeper understanding, and your reviews help others just like you find this content. If you feel led, please leave a quick rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. About Today's Guest Today I'm joined by Kristen Miele, founder and owner of Sex Ed Reclaimed—a faith-based, age-appropriate sexual health curriculum for Christian families with kids ages 3–18. With over 115 biblically grounded video lessons, Kristen equips parents to have ongoing, grace-filled, and practical conversations about sexual health, consent, body safety, relationships, and more. Kristen holds degrees in Public Health, taught human sexuality at a large secular university, and has served internationally as an educator. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband, their two daughters, and two cats. What We Talk About in This Episode Why sex education is not a one-time talk, but a lifelong conversation starting at a young age. How purity culture, silence, and shame have impacted generations—and how to break the cycle. The importance of parents doing their own inner work before teaching their children. Talking about body parts without shame and using correct terminology. Addressing pornography, masturbation, and consent from a biblical yet non-legalistic perspective. How to approach topics like abortion, gender identity, sexting, and sexual safety with truth and compassion. Using real-life teachable moments from media, music, and daily life to start conversations. Equipping kids to make informed, faith-aligned choices in a hyper-sexualized culture. Direct Quotes from the Episode From Diana S. Rice: "This conversation is not a one-time thing. It's something you start at a very young age, age-appropriate, and you keep building on it." "Many adults haven't dealt with their own experiences of how they learned about sex—and that gets passed on to the next generation." "Fear is false evidence appearing real. We want to help people face everything and rise." "It's not about what you believe or what I believe—it's about the listener having critical thinking, getting the information, and finding the help they need to be a healthy member of society." From Kristen Miele: "I was in a place of grief, and the Lord brought beauty from ashes—which is what He does." "You have to look into yourself first before you can do this really well. That means prayer, journaling, conversations, maybe counseling—especially if trauma is part of your story." "My curriculum does not do do's and don'ts. I'm very anti-legalistic sex ed. I teach in a way that gives the option of free will—because that's how God works with us." "If you don't explain why you're turning something off, your kids will go find the answer elsewhere." "We're literally here because of sex. If anything from this podcast resonates, don't leave it here—go do something about it." Resources & Links Mentioned Sex Ed Reclaimed Curriculum – Faith-based, age-appropriate video library for ages 3–18: www.sexedreclaimed.com STOP Acronym for Kids – Shut your eyes, Tell an adult, Open your mind to something new, Play something else (for when encountering inappropriate images) Episode 77: Reclaiming Biblical Sexuality After Trauma & Purity Culture with Dr. Carol Tanksley    Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.   Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast    

In this soul-stirring episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP speaks with Aleya Fraser, ethnobotanist, land steward, and author of Caribbean Herbalism: Traditional Knowledge and Modern Herbal Healing. Together, they explore how ancestral plant wisdom, nervous system regulation, and spiritual healing intersect through ritual, relationship with the land, and divine design. If you've ever felt disconnected from your body, your roots, or your spiritual rhythm—this conversation is for you.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: What Caribbean herbalism is and how it honors African, Indigenous, and Southeast Asian wisdom Why "weeds" like dandelion, bee balm, and purslane are medicine for your mind and liver The truth behind bush tea, bush baths, and their emotional and somatic healing powers Why journaling, ritual, and forest bathing matter in trauma recovery The myth of "woo" medicine and how Western science is catching up How to ethically explore ancestral herbal practices—even if you weren't raised in that culture The difference between plant fads and real, rooted, land-based knowledge How slowing down and connecting with plants can transform your mental health  Featured Guest: Aleya Fraser Ethnobotanist | Author | Cacao Grower | Storyteller Aleya blends a formal background in physiology and neurobiology with ancestral plant wisdom passed down from elders. She co-manages Panorama Cacao, a bean-to-bar chocolate farm in Trinidad & Tobago, and leads immersive botanical experiences that reconnect people to the land—and to themselves. Her work was deeply shaped by her mentor Francis Morain, an ethnobotanical elder who taught her how to preserve, document, and honor traditional plant knowledge.  Resources & Links Mentioned  Aleya's Book: Caribbean Herbalism: Traditional Knowledge and Modern Herbal Healing → Buy on Amazon → Find at Barnes & Noble → Ask your local indie bookstore to order it!  Connect with Aleya Fraser: Website: caribbeanherbalism.com Instagram: @naturaleya Substack: naturaleya.substack.com Her site features plant photos, cacao farm tours, and invitations to join her for botanical excursions in the rainforest of Trinidad.  Practical Tools & Takeaways: Bush Tea = fresh herbal infusions made with plants like mint, dandelion, lemongrass, or rosemary Bush Bath = traditional herbal bath + prayer + somatic ritual for full-body healing Forest Bathing = Japanese practice (shinrin-yoku) of slow, mindful nature immersion Plant Journal = track how your body responds to herbs over time Kitchen Herbs You Can Start With: basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, lemon balm  Favorite Quotes: Diana's Drop-the-Mic Quotes: "Do you have ADD, or do you have a nature deficit disorder?" "Weeds are just misunderstood flowers." "You can't just Google something real quick, or believe everything ChatGPT says." Aleya's Drop-the-Mic Quotes:   "Western medicine is built upon traditional knowledge, and you can't forsake one for the other." "Books are important. Slow down." "Faith, respect, and slow observation—that's how you build a relationship with a plant, it's not just a product."  For Therapists & Healers: Learn how to ethically integrate herbalism into your practice Avoid TikTok-level advice—study with elders, not just influencers Respect cultural roots and the ethnobotanical context of healing plants Explore how decolonizing mental health can create deeper transformation  Faith & Neurobiology—Together Diana and Aleya reflect on what it means to live at the intersection of: Scripture + Soil Genesis + Gut Health Spirit-led Healing + Scientific Curiosity The Nervous System + Native Plants Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.  Stay Connected with Diana → Website: throughthevalleytherapy.com → YouTube Playlist: The Holistic Counselor Podcast 

Welcome back, fearfully and wonderfully made human. I'm Diana, licensed therapist and consultant, and today's episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast is a deeply healing conversation that blends faith, trauma recovery, and creativity with one powerful guest: Katana Malone. Katana is an award-winning actress, filmmaker, educator, poet, and founder of Melanated Scribes Publishing. But more than that, she's a mother, a survivor, and a storyteller who's turned personal pain into purpose. Whether you're navigating postpartum recovery, cultural identity, or reclaiming your voice after trauma, this episode is for you.  In This Episode, We Talk About: How postpartum trauma ignited Katana's creative journey Turning grief, loss, and identity struggles into children's books and film Shadow work, EMDR, and reframing old narratives for deep healing The unique mental health stigma in Caribbean and church communities Raising Gen Z and Gen Alpha with emotional intelligence Why storytelling and creativity are critical tools for healing trauma Building safe spaces in education, art, and community work  Tools & Takeaways: You are not broken — you're becoming. Healing requires looking inward and giving yourself grace. Creativity can be both a survival strategy and a spiritual calling. It's okay to rest. Rest is resistance to hustle culture. Therapy isn't weakness — it's wisdom.  Featured Books by Katana Malone: Mommy's Magic – A celebration of maternal love and childhood wonder Mommy's Garden – A poetic journey through emotional healing and growth Rainbow Baby – Helping children process grief after miscarriage His Flowers – A powerful poetry collection honoring men's emotional lives  Available on Amazon and Katana's website: www.katanamalone.com  Resources Mentioned: West Indian Actors Database – Supporting authentic casting in Caribbean film roles Reach Within (Grenada) – Nonprofit supporting youth mental health Verb Kind – Mentorship and volunteer work with incarcerated youth  Connect with Katana Malone: Website: www.katanamalone.com Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter/X: @katanamalone IMDb: Katana Malone on IMDb Books: Search "Katana Malone" on Amazon  Let's Keep Healing Together: Loved what you heard today? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement. Want to learn more about faith-based, trauma-informed therapy and holistic wellness? Visit www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Or book a free 15-minute consult at this link Remember: Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind. Listen to Episode 80 now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you stream your podcasts.   Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice sits down with Meiby Nodarse, LMHC—a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and TBRI® Practitioner with 4KIDS of South Florida. Together, they unpack what trauma-informed parenting really looks like and how the Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI) and EPIC faith-based trainings are transforming foster care families and Christian caregivers across Florida and beyond. We explore the intersection of faith, attachment science, and parenting—from healing early childhood trauma to supporting teens navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. Whether you're a therapist, foster parent, teacher, or someone healing from religious or relational trauma, this episode offers clinical insight and Christ-centered encouragement.  In This Episode, You'll Learn: What 4KIDS of South Florida really does (hint: it's more than foster care!) The heart behind the TBRI® model and why trauma-informed parenting matters The power of EPIC training (Emotional, Physical, Intellectual, Character) for Christian caregivers How to shift from "willful disobedience" to "survival behavior" in parenting What it means to "take thoughts captive" as a parent and therapist Real-world examples of trauma-informed care in foster and adoptive homes How spiritual disciplines and neuroscience work together to rewire the brain Common myths about trauma-informed parenting (and what the research actually says) Ways to support children who self-harm, hoard food, or resist touch due to past trauma How churches and ministries can actively help solve the foster care crisis  Resources Mentioned: 4KIDS of South Florida – Organization supporting foster/adoptive families EPIC Parent Training (FREE) – Trauma-informed, faith-based parenting course TBRI® Overview – Texas Christian University's attachment-based model Trust-Based Relational Intervention® Practitioners List Diana's Neuroplasticity Webinar – Christ in Private Practice Summit Theraplay® – Upcoming modality Meiby is pursuing for deeper parent-child connection Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

Ever feel anxious, ashamed, or overwhelmed by money? You're not alone—and it's not just about numbers. In this powerful episode, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, dives into the emotional roots of financial stress with licensed professional clinical counselor and IFS-informed therapist Jennifer Schrappe, LPCC-S. Jennifer co-leads the program Heal Your Money Stuff and Calm Your Life, helping individuals untangle the hidden emotional and spiritual blocks that keep them stuck in cycles of overspending, avoidance, guilt, and scarcity.  In this episode, we explore: What the Bible really says about money (1 Timothy 6:10) Common "money parts" from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens: the Rebel, Impulsive Spender, Anxious Saver, and Avoider How childhood trauma and cultural beliefs shape adult money habits Why many people fail traditional financial programs like Financial Peace University (hint: it's not about math) How to rewire your money mindset without shame or self-judgment Christian perspectives on wealth, stewardship, and surrender How therapists can help clients explore money trauma and financial shame in session Whether you've lived paycheck to paycheck or you're quietly hoarding out of fear, this conversation offers grace, insight, and practical next steps.  Key Topics: IFS Therapy | Emotional Spending | Christian Money Beliefs | Financial Trauma | Inner Child Work | Scarcity Mindset | Budget Avoidance | Therapy for Financial Shame | Heal Your Money Story | Money and Identity  Resources & Links:  Visit the program: Heal Your Money Stuff and Calm Your Life Facebook Page  Learn more about Jennifer: www.jenniferschrappe.com   Learn about Internal Family Systems (IFS): IFS Institute  Learn more about Financial Peace University: Dave Ramsey's Program  Who this episode is for: Therapists who want to address financial shame with clients Christians questioning what God really says about money Anyone battling impulse spending, money anxiety, or budget burnout Survivors of financial control or abuse Coaches, counselors, and faith-based leaders exploring the intersection of faith and finances    Don't forget to subscribe, rate & review on: Apple Podcasts YouTube Spotify  Connect with Diana: Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast Website: Through the Valley Therapy Coaching & Consulting: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching  "The goal isn't just debt freedom—it's emotional peace, identity in Christ, and freedom from shame." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC  "There's always a reason why people do what they do. There's always a reason why people feel what they feel—and it can be unpacked with much less drama than it may feel inside." — Jennifer Schrappe, LPCC-S Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

Welcome back to The Holistic Counselor Podcast! In this raw, redemptive, and research-backed conversation, Diana sits down with Dr. Carol Tanksley—a board-certified OB-GYN, ordained minister, trauma-informed coach, and author—to confront one of the most taboo topics in both clinical and Christian spaces: sex, shame, and spiritual healing. If you were raised in purity culture, survived sexual trauma, or are struggling with intimacy in marriage, this episode is a compassionate, evidence-based invitation to heal from sexual brokenness and rediscover God's design for whole-person intimacy.  In This Episode, We Discuss: The trauma impact of purity culture and religious shame Why churches avoid "the sex talk"—and the damage it causes How porn has become our culture's primary sex educator What Scripture really says about mutuality, consent, and the body The neurobiology of shame and how it blocks healthy intimacy Practical tools for healing sexual trauma and toxic religious messaging Helping children and teens develop healthy, faith-informed sexual understanding Somatic healing and rewiring the nervous system through safe connection Rebuilding your image of God after spiritual or sexual abuse  Therapy Meets Theology: Key Insights "If the gospel has nothing to say to the hardest parts of our story, what good is it?" – Dr. Carol Tanksley "You cannot go from 'sex is dirty' to 'sex is holy' just because you got a ring." "Healing begins when shame is brought into the light—with Jesus and with safe others."  Resources Mentioned:  Sex Ed Reclaimed – A Christ-centered sex education course for parents and caregivers  The Sex Talk Series – Video curriculum to help Christian parents talk to kids about sex over a decade-long journey of age-appropriate conversation  Dr. Carol's In-Person Healing Intensives – A 4-day immersive experience combining somatic therapy, faith integration, and trauma-informed support  Dr. Carol Ministries Website – Books, blogs, podcasts, and coaching focused on faith, sexuality, healing, and relationships  Book Mentioned: Sexpectations by Dr. Carol Tanksley  Faith-Based Healing Tool: Soaking in Song of Solomon to rewire sexual shame through Scripture  For Parents & Therapists: Practical Tools Start "the sex talk" as early as toddlerhood with normalized language Use visuals like anatomy brochures and age-appropriate books Teach bodily autonomy and respectful curiosity—not shame Have 10,000 mini conversations about sex, not just one big talk Help clients deconstruct harmful beliefs and rebuild a safe image of God Support trauma survivors in processing their story with a safe witness  Who This Episode Is For: Christians recovering from purity culture, shame, or sexual trauma Parents seeking faith-based sex education tools Therapists, coaches, and leaders looking for trauma-informed Christian resources Individuals navigating intimacy blocks in marriage or dating Survivors of spiritual or sexual abuse trying to rebuild trust and identity Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

Only 1 in 3 Latinas struggling with mental health ever get professional help. Stigma, cultural expectations, and lack of bilingual, bicultural care keep too many of us silent. That's why the Rise Latina Summit was created—a free, 3-day online event designed to help Latinas heal anxiety, nurture their health, and transform their lives. In this episode, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS is joined by founder Ana Martinez, health coach Naihomy Jerez, and mentor Carol Martínez to share why this summit matters and what women will walk away with. Together, we invite you to a space by Latinas, for Latinas—where healing is possible, resilience is reclaimed, and community rises together. What you'll learn at the Rise Latina Summit This event brings together over 20 Latina leaders across mental health, wellness, parenting, business, finance, and personal growth. Presentations will cover topics such as: Healing intergenerational trauma & emotional release Building generational wealth & money confidence Conscious parenting & family resilience Nutrition, hormones, and sustainable eating Music therapy, somatic therapy, and trauma recovery Burnout prevention & confidence building Image, identity, and brand empowerment Stress, grief, and resilience practices Faith, leadership, and holistic well-being Manifestation, self-care, and whole-person growth Featured speakers Ana Toledo — Spanish Interpreter Andrea Ramos — CEO/Founder, Building Gen Wealth Carol Martínez — Mentora de vida y crianza consciente https://www.youtube.com/@ConlaLogicadelAmor  Charly Stoever — Money Coach, host of Unicorn Millionaire Podcast  Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS — Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching; Host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast   Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Blog: Liberation Lunes Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Eliana Barousse — Founder, Lead W Heart Erika Franco — Mentora y coach de Imagen y Marca Personal Consciente Geisel Alas — Mentora, Alimentación Saludable y Sostenible Iliamari Vazquez Houston — Private Practice Owner, Clinical Director & Trauma Therapist Iliana Fernandez — Music Therapist, Founder of Clave Music Therapy Dra. Irma Torres — Psicóloga Clínica y Conferencista Kalia Izquierdo — Terapeuta Somática, especialista en estrés y duelo Marcela Tapias — Psicoterapeuta, consultora en desarrollo humano, speaker internacional Mena Cardenas — Conferencista internacional y mentora de manifestación Naihomy Jerez — Food & Hormone Health Coach Website: https://www.naihomyjerez.com/ Raising Mami Alchemy, Inc. (Ana Maria & Solana Lugo) — Co-Founders Rita-Soledad Fernández Paulino — CEO, Wealth Para Todos & Money & Self-Care Coach Sylvia Brand — Burnout and Confidence Coach, Your Burnout Bestie Vanessa Duarte — Chemist & Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition Coach Yali Giovanni — Holistic Wellness Practitioner, Founder of Boundless & Beyond Enterprises, LLC Yubi La Huerta — Terapista de liberación emocional Real quotes from the episode "Say yes to yourself—listen to your body, your feelings, your needs. Be curious, not judgmental." – Ana Martinez "You taking care of yourself first is not selfish. It's the most loving thing you can do." – Naihomy Jerez "Reconéctate con tu verdadero poder personal… la verdadera transformación viene de adentro hacia afuera." – Carol Martínez "Health is the new wealth. If we don't make time for our wellness, we'll be forced to make time for our illness." – Diana S. Rice Why attend? Bilingual & bicultural: Sessions in English, Spanish, and Spanglish Free & online: Accessible anywhere Community-focused: Facebook group, prizes, and live interaction Variety of expertise: Therapists, coaches, nutritionists, financial educators, and more Transformation framework: Heal → Nurture → Transform Register now for free: https://www.riselatinasummit.com/?affiliate=iJZt2u Resources for Latinas Rise Latina Summit: https://www.riselatinasummit.com/?affiliate=iJZt2u Lumen Cordis Behavioral Health (Ana Martinez): https://www.lumencordis.com/ Naihomy Jerez: https://www.naihomyjerez.com/ Carol Martínez YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConlaLogicadelAmor Latinx Therapy: https://latinxtherapy.com/ Therapy for Latinx: https://www.therapyforlatinx.com/ Inclusive Therapists: https://www.inclusivetherapists.com/ The Rise Latina Summit (Oct 14–16, 2025) is a FREE, bilingual, bicultural event for Latinas ready to heal anxiety, break cycles, and reclaim resilience. With over 20 speakers—from therapists and health coaches to financial mentors and wellness leaders—this 3-day summit offers practical tools on mental health, conscious parenting, sustainable nutrition, money confidence, grief healing, burnout prevention, and more. Hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, with guests Ana Martinez, Naihomy Jerez, and Carol Martínez, this special podcast episode explains why the summit matters and how to join. Register now at https://www.riselatinasummit.com/?affiliate=iJZt2u Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.  

In this deeply moving conversation, Diana sits down with John Acosta, founder of ZuluOne, to explore the healing power of Family Constellation Therapy and what it means to release what was never ours to carry. After attending his workshop at the 10th Annual South Florida Behavioral Health Conference, Diana knew John's message needed to reach more people—especially those navigating generational trauma, codependency, and systemic burdens.  What You'll Hear in Episode 76 Why John named his organization ZuluOne and how it honors the spiritual roots of this healing work The true origin of Family Constellation Therapy and its connection to the Zulu tribe and Bert Hellinger How unresolved trauma and shame silently echo through families and generations A breakdown of how constellation sessions work—with real examples from John's personal story and live workshops What "we become what we reject" means in the healing process Why healing requires humility, choice, and grace, not just insight How John blends faith, science, and ritual to help others release inherited pain The powerful group healing ritual involving the Circle of Brotherhood and the passing back of 13 generations of pain A short guided meditation to ground the listener in gratitude for life and lineage  Quotes to Remember "We become what we reject." – John Acosta "It's not therapy, it's grace. That's the only word for it." – John Acosta "I thought I was going to another lecture, and instead I witnessed sacred, embodied truth." – Diana S. Rice "Healing doesn't start with fixing someone else—it starts with choosing to stop carrying what's not ours." – Diana S. Rice  Resources & Links Mentioned  John Acosta's Website: https://www.zuluone.org  ZuluOne Podcast: Buzzsprout, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube  Contact to Book John: Cindy Biggs, CEO – [email protected]  It Didn't Start with You by Mark Wolynn – Amazon  Another Self (Netflix series on Family Constellations)  Encanto (Disney film featuring generational trauma themes)  John's Substack Essay: If I Was the Devil: How Trauma Keeps Us Divided – https://johnacosta.substack.com  Connect with John IG: @zuluonepodcast Website: www.zuluone.org Book a session or host a workshop: Contact Page Read his newsletter: Systemic Newsletter on Substack  Episode Reflection This episode is a reminder that healing doesn't just happen in the mind—it happens in the body, in community, and in the spirit. John's lived experience and spiritual humility invite us to look deeper at the systems we're born into, and the ones we're meant to restore. Whether you're a therapist, a cycle breaker, or someone hungry for healing, Episode 76 offers hope, tools, and a gentle nudge toward transformation.  Subscribe & Follow  Follow The Holistic Counselor Podcast for weekly episodes where faith, science, and holistic mental health meet.  IG: @theholisticcounselorpodcast  Learn more: throughthevalleytherapy.com Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

In Episode 75 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS (Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching) sits down with Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP, to explore suicide prevention, cultural identity, and rest as resistance. Learn crisis warning signs, immediate next steps, free resources, and empathy‑driven strategies to challenge mental health stigma. Content Warning: This episode discusses suicide, trauma, and mental illness. Please prioritize your well‑being—pause or skip if needed. Episode Overview In this deeply insightful conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS (Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching) and Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP (Director of Training Initiatives, United Way of Broward County) cover: Suicide Prevention — warning signs, the role of a suicidologist, Florida's Baker Act, etc Cultural Identity — reclaiming "Hotep" (Afro‑holistic consciousness), navigating multi‑faith households, raising multi‑ethnic children Rest as Resistance — micro‑breaks, breathwork, grounding techniques inspired by The Nap Ministry Challenging Stigma — practical scripts, fact‑based compassion in faith and diverse communities Actionable Support Steps — how clinicians, caregivers, educators, and friends can intervene effectively Key Topics Discussed "Hotep" Defined: Afro‑centric philosophy of holistic wellness, ancestral pride, multi‑faith unity. Suicidology 101: Training in psychological autopsies; crisis intervention best practices. Legal Frameworks: Baker Act (FL) vs. California's 5150 and other state involuntary holds. Mental Health Stigma: Debunking "weakness" myths; brain = organ. Rest as Resistance: Scheduling 5–10 min daily for breathwork, sun grounding, or power naps. Support Scripts & Tools: "Hey [Name], I've noticed you've been off—can we talk?" Warning Signs Someone May Be in Crisis Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves Withdrawing from loved ones or favorite activities Insomnia or sleeping too much Reckless or risk‑taking behaviors Expressing hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden Sudden mood swings or uncharacteristic calmness Giving away prized possessions What to Do Next Reach Out by Name "Hey [Name], I've noticed you seem really down. I'm here to listen." Stay with Them If actively suicidal, remain present and call 988 immediately. Share Credible Resources 988 Lifeline Warning Signs → https://988lifeline.org/en/warning-signs/ NAMI: Warning Signs & Symptoms → https://www.nami.org/About‑Mental‑Illness/Warning‑Signs‑and‑Symptoms Encourage Professional Help Offer to locate a therapist or accompany them to crisis services. Follow Up "Just checking in—how are you doing since we talked?" Resources & Links Crisis & Helplines 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline → Call/text 988 | https://988lifeline.org NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) → https://www.nami.org 211 Community Resource Hotline → Dial 211 or https://www.211.org United Way of Broward County Main site → https://www.unitedwaybroward.org Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention Commission → https://www.drugfreebroward.org Be Healthy Broward initiative → https://www.drugfreebroward.org/be-healthy-broward Self‑Care & Rest The Nap Ministry (Tricia Hersey) → https://thenapministry.com Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto → https://thenapministry.com/book Clinician Referrals Anika T. McDonald, LCSW (neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, youth) via Alma → https://www.helloalma.com Contact Info Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/aisha-mcdonald-lmhc Email → [email protected] Host & Guest Bios Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching. Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, and Qualified Supervisor. Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP, Certified Trauma Professional Director of Training Initiatives at United Way of Broward County; national speaker, DEI consultant, and trauma expert who has trained thousands in Mental Health First Aid and crisis intervention. Practical Takeaways Mental Health is Health: Treat your brain like any other organ—get help early. Connection Heals: Routine check‑ins can prevent crises. Rest Empowers: Guard 5–10 min daily for breathing or grounding exercises. Fact‑Based Compassion: Counter stigma with clear information and empathy. Call to Action Share this episode with someone who needs it. Tag us on Instagram @theholisticounselorpodcast . Interested in MHFA training or speaking? Connect with Aisha on LinkedIn. You're Not Alone: Reach out—988, NAMI, 211, or a trusted friend. Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to create with care, prayer, and trauma-informed preparation. If you want to support this work and help keep the podcast sponsor-free, you can do so by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps us continue offering Christ-centered, holistic mental-health conversations to listeners around the world. https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/

In this powerful episode, Diana sits down with Dr. LaNette Burgess—licensed clinical social worker, school-based therapist, and expert in adolescent mental health—to unpack the unseen struggles of Black and Brown girls navigating school systems, trauma, and cultural expectations. Dr. Burgess shares her journey from witnessing mental illness in a childhood friend's family to becoming a fierce advocate for girls often labeled as "loud," "disruptive," or "aggressive" without acknowledgment of their pain. Together, they explore how bias, adultification, and the myth of the "strong Black woman" fuel cycles of burnout, especially for high-achieving women in faith-based and underserved communities. They also dive deep into the spiritual and clinical realities of healing, rest, identity, and how to offer real support—whether you're a parent, therapist, teacher, or someone trying to break generational cycles.  Quotes to Remember "You can only give out of your overflow. If your cup is empty, that's your cue to be still." — Dr. LaNette Burgess "Many Black and Brown girls are being punished for having a body, not for breaking a rule." — Dr. LaNette Burgess "We think perfection will lead to peace, but sometimes doing everything 'right' still leaves us feeling lost." — Dr. LaNette Burgess "I say 'fearfully and wonderfully made' every episode because Psalm 139:14 reminds us of our worth—no matter how the world treats us." — Diana S. Rice  Tools & Resources Mentioned  Documentary: Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique W. Morris  Tool: Anger Iceberg Worksheet – Free download to explore what's beneath anger  Study Referenced: Georgetown Law's "Girlhood Interrupted" – The Adultification of Black Girls  Scripture: Psalm 139:14 and Genesis 16 – "El Roi: The God Who Sees Me"  Therapy Concept: Adultification Bias, Trauma Responses in Schools, "Martha Syndrome" in Christian Women  Connect with Dr. LaNette Burgess  Website: embracetherapyinfaith.clientsecure.me  Email: [email protected]  Licenses: FL, NY, NH, TX  Accepts major insurance | Offers virtual sessions  Also on Psychology Today & Alma  Connect with Diana  Website: throughthevalleytherapy.com  Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast | @throughthevalleytherapy  Final Word If you've ever felt unseen, overwhelmed, or stuck in high-functioning survival mode—this episode will speak to your soul. Remember, rest is not laziness. Asking for help is not weakness. And healing begins with awareness. Listen now, share it with someone who needs this conversation, and subscribe so you don't miss next week's episode. Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to create with care, prayer, and trauma-informed preparation. If you want to support this work and help keep the podcast sponsor-free, you can do so by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps us continue offering Christ-centered, holistic mental-health conversations to listeners around the world. https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/

If you've ever asked yourself, "Why do I feel stuck even though I've done everything right?" — this episode is for you. In Episode 73 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Dr. Jasmine Escalera, a TEDx speaker, former pharmacologist, and transformational career coach for women of color, to dive deep into the invisible blocks keeping many high-achieving women in cycles of burnout, self-doubt, and survival. Together, they explore how generational trauma, scarcity mindsets, and imposter syndrome shape the inner landscape of women—especially those from culturally diverse and first-generation backgrounds. If you're ready to shift from surviving to thriving, this conversation will equip you with powerful questions, healing tools, and mindset shifts that you can actually start using today. Whether you're on the edge of a career pivot, feeling spiritually or emotionally drained, or just starting to ask "What do I truly want?"—this episode blends holistic mental health, career wisdom, and faith-based insight into a roadmap for real transformation.  What You'll Learn: The science and soul behind imposter syndrome How to identify inherited scarcity mindsets Why generational trauma shows up in your nervous system Somatic and ancestral healing tools for Black and Brown communities Mindset practices for first-gen professionals and cycle-breakers How to start rewriting toxic internal narratives today Daily rituals and habits that lead to freedom, clarity, and confidence Jasmine's "Courage Crew" and how to join the next cohort  Mic-Drop Quotes: "Scarcity got me far—but it's no longer my default. I wrote it a thank-you letter… then said goodbye." — Dr. Jasmine Escalera "If you're fearfully and wonderfully made, the lie of not enough has no place in your story." — Diana S. Rice "Imposter syndrome is not just yours — it's inherited. And that means you get to be the one to break it." — Dr. Jasmine Escalera "You are your world. You get to change it. That power can't be taken from you." — Dr. Jasmine Escalera  Resources Mentioned: Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma by Dr. Mariel Buqué The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk ACE Score (Adverse Childhood Experience) Test YouTube University (seriously!) Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning -  "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom."  The Courage Crew (coming back Fall 2025)  Connect with Dr. Jasmine Escalera: Instagram: @jasmineescaleracoaching LinkedIn: Dr. Jasmine Escalera Website: www.jasmineescalera.com  Support the Podcast If this episode spoke to you, please share it with a friend, leave a rating, or tag us on social media. Your support helps us reach more hearts and create more conversations that heal.  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube  Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast  Learn more: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to create with care, prayer, and trauma-informed preparation. If you want to support this work and help keep the podcast sponsor-free, you can do so by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps us continue offering Christ-centered, holistic mental-health conversations to listeners around the world. https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/

Welcome, fearfully and wonderfully made humans! In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, sits down with Dr. Nancy Beliveau—Top Doctor of Functional Medicine and founder of the Holistic Wholeness Institute—to unpack the science, emotion, and theology behind hormone health and its profound impact on mental wellness. Dr. Nancy shares her own journey from misdiagnosis and medical gaslighting to radical healing through functional medicine. She reveals how underlying hormonal imbalances like PCOS, Hashimoto's, estrogen dominance, and adrenal dysfunction are often dismissed by conventional healthcare, leading many women to feel unheard and stuck on lifelong medications. Together, Diana and Dr. Nancy explore how the root causes of anxiety, depression, and fatigue can be uncovered through deeper testing, intentional lifestyle changes, and faith-informed care. They also talk about the importance of integration—biology, psychology, and theology—and the freedom that comes from learning to advocate for yourself. Quotes to Share: "You are worthy. You are worth it. You are deserving of feeling good." — Dr. Nancy Beliveau "No two women are the same. Our biology, psychology, and theology all intersect uniquely." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC Key Topics Covered: Functional labs vs. conventional labs: what you're not being told Root causes of mood swings, fatigue, and PMS Hormone myths: the truth about estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone The "second puberty" of midlife women Why traditional lab panels miss thyroid and hormone issues How faith, nutrition, breathwork, and nervous system regulation support hormone healing Addressing guilt around medication with compassion and discernment Internal Family Systems (IFS) and trauma-informed mental health care How to detox safely without extremes Empowering men's health too: low testosterone, ED, and emotional suppression Resources Mentioned: Holistic Wholeness Institute Free Masterclasses No Bad Parts by Dr. Richard Schwartz Breathly App and Pause App for breathwork Functional testing options: Dutch Test, salivary hormone testing, full thyroid panels Supplement mentions: Saccharomyces boulardii, lavender capsules, DIM, Maca Guest Bio: Dr. Nancy Beliveau is a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, Top Doctor of Functional Medicine, and founder of the Holistic Wholeness Institute. After years of struggling with unexplained health issues and being dismissed by traditional medicine, Dr. Nancy discovered functional medicine and experienced profound healing. She now dedicates her life to helping others uncover root causes and achieve true wellness—mind, body, and spirit. Connect with Dr. Nancy: Website: https://holisticwholenessinstitute.com Instagram: @holisticwholenessinstitute Connect with Diana: Website: https://throughthevalleytherapy.com Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Podcast Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychological care. Always consult with licensed professionals before making any health decisions. CTA: If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe for more truth-driven conversations that honor faith, science, and healing.

In this deeply moving and empowering episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice sits down with therapist, group practice owner, and therapist-mom coach Kristin Mervich, LCSW. Kristin shares her raw and courageous journey of navigating her son's Stage 4 Neuroblastoma diagnosis while continuing to lead a group practice, raise two young children, and coach fellow therapist-moms on how to work part-time with full-time pay. This episode explores the intersection of motherhood, grief, entrepreneurship, and mental health with bold honesty and spiritual depth. You'll hear about: Kristin's personal journey into private practice and coaching The moment she learned of her son's cancer diagnosis How she emotionally regulates through crisis Using identity journaling as a tool for hope and vision The myth of "balance" and why integration matters more How her group practice functions without traditional admin Coaching other therapist-moms through fear and into sustainable business models Whether you're a clinician, a mother, or a woman holding grief and responsibility simultaneously, this episode offers soul-level encouragement and practical strategies you can implement today. Topics Covered: Emotional resilience for therapists and caregivers Parenting during medical trauma Somatic and nutritional tools for anxiety and burnout Creating slow mornings and sustainable schedules Breaking free from the guilt around money, motherhood, and ambition Faith, surrender, and finding God in the unknown Key Quotes: "It's not about being Superwoman. It's about integration—and creating a life that works for the person you are right now." —Kristin Mervich "We don't have to freeze in fear. We can face everything and rise—even when we're grieving." —Diana S. Rice Resources & Mentions: Kristin's Group Practice: Outsmarting Anxiety & OCD Therapist Mom Coaching: @therapreneurmother on Instagram Free Resource: Private Practice Mom's Playbook Podcasts mentioned: Entrepreneurial Therapist, EmpowerHER, Millionaire Mother, Momset Book Mentioned: The Practice by Seth Godin Connect with Kristin: Email: [email protected] Instagram: @therapreneurmother Connect with Diana: Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Podcast Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Host: Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Founder of Through the Valley Therapy + Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Creator of The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Guest: Leesha C. Newkirk, JD Christian Family Law Attorney | Certified Mediator | Mom of 6 | Advocate for Survivors  What We Talk About: What spiritual abuse really looks like in a marriage How the Church often misuses "biblical submission" Why divorce isn't failure—it's discernment Leesha's powerful testimony and how she found healing How to protect your kids, assets, and peace during high-conflict separation Why consulting with a trauma-informed attorney changes everything  Real Quotes, Real Talk Diana: "You are not weak because you cry. You are not broken because you feel. Emotions are a signal, not a sin." Leesha: "You can go through a divorce without losing everything. You don't have to ruin your children or burn the house down. There is a better way." "God is not mad at you for protecting yourself. He is not disappointed that you chose safety."  Resources We Mentioned Bruce Law Firm, P.A. (Where Leesha practices)  https://brucepa.com  Palm Beach County, FL | Legal services for Florida residents Tia Levings' Memoir: A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy  Amazon | Macmillan Call to Peace Ministries  https://www.calltopeace.org Stay Married Florida – Legal + spiritual education hub  https://staymarriedflorida.com Other Podcast Episodes to Listen To:  Ep. 58 – Untwisting Scripture with Rebecca Davis  Ep. 10 – Religious Trauma & Domestic Abuse in the Church with Dr. Kate Johnson   Duluth Model: Christian Power & Control Wheel PDF — A faith-adapted guide to understanding spiritual abuse and coercive control in Christian relationships.  Connect with Diana S. Rice Website: Through the Valley Therapy Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @transformedmindcc @theholisticcounselorpodcast  Connect with Leesha C. Newkirk, JD Website: https://brucepa.com (Use contact form or phone listed on site to request consult)

Welcome, fearfully and wonderfully made human! This episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast is a powerful dive into parenting, psychological evaluations, and how to better support neurodivergent kids—especially in the midst of trauma, divorce, and diagnostic confusion. Diana welcomes Dr. Staci Weiner, a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist, for a deep, practical, and grace-filled conversation about trauma, resilience, and reclaiming confidence in parenting. Dr. Weiner is the founder of Apple Psychological, a multidisciplinary mental health practice with locations in Boca Raton, FL, and Roslyn Heights, NY. With nearly 20 years of experience, she offers psychological evaluations, forensic consultations, psychotherapy, and group therapy services for children, teens, and adults. Together, Diana and Dr. Weiner unpack key challenges families face—including cultural stigma, the misuse of labels like autism or ADHD, the reality of co-parenting through high-conflict divorces, and how CBT can be life-changing not just for kids, but for overwhelmed parents. In this episode, we discuss: Why routine and predictability are critical for neurodivergent children How unresolved trauma shows up in parenting and relationships Tools parents can use to co-regulate during chaos (hello, distress tolerance!) The truth about psychological evaluations—what they are, why they matter, and how they're misunderstood Cognitive distortions commonly seen in divorcing parents and how to reframe them Cultural misunderstandings in mental health diagnosis and why context matters The difference between labeling and truly seeing someone for who they are Why validation and a healthy community are essential for healing  Quotes to Remember: "You actually see my child for who they are—not as a label, but as a human being." – Parent to Dr. Staci Weiner "Not everyone can afford therapy—but you can still take agency over your healing." – Diana S. Rice Resources Mentioned: Apple Psychological Practice Robson Forensic, Inc. Myers-Briggs Personality Assessment (Free) Love Languages Assessment List of Cognitive Distortions (PDF) Episode 68 with Dr. Benson Fox Connect with Dr. Staci Weiner: Website: applepsychological.com Practice Locations: Boca Raton, FL + Roslyn Heights, NY Forensic Work: Robson Forensic Contact: Call or schedule via applepsychological.janeapp.com Join the Divorce Support Group (Florida + Virtual) Pathways to Peace – A supportive hybrid group for women navigating divorce or separation. Includes education and guest experts. Contact Apple Psychological to schedule a free consult with Dr. Aisha Robinson. Connect with Diana: Website: throughthevalleytherapy.com Coaching & Consulting: transformedmindcc.com Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast | @throughthevalleytherapy Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast (new episodes every Wednesday!)

What does it really mean to be "on the spectrum"—and why are so many adults just now getting diagnosed? In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Diana sits down with Dr. Benson Fox, Psy.D., an Orthodox Jewish psychologist, school counselor, professor, and group leader of Adulting on the Spectrum, to explore the truths, myths, and real-life challenges of navigating adult life as a neurodivergent person. They unpack the confusion around late diagnoses, the overlap with trauma, and how stigma shows up—especially in faith-based, immigrant, and culturally diverse communities. This is an honest conversation for parents, professionals, or anyone who's ever wondered, "Do I fit this spectrum—and what now?"  What You'll Learn What autism spectrum disorder really is (and isn't) How to tell the difference between quirks, trauma, and ASD The truth about overdiagnosis and one-session labels Why many adults in minority and religious communities are misdiagnosed or missed How faith can be a source of resilience—or confusion—in neurodivergent care Practical tips for families navigating school IEPs and services What HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services) actually provides Why diagnoses are not for life—and why reevaluation matters The problem with "high vs. low functioning" labels in the DSM  Mic Drop Quotes "Diagnoses are not for life. Legally, most are only valid for three years—and yet people internalize them forever." — Dr. Benson Fox "Support shouldn't be dependent on a label. Let's treat the symptoms, not just diagnose the person." — Dr. Benson Fox "As a therapist, my job isn't to impose faith—but ignoring someone's spirituality can be a form of clinical neglect." — Diana S. Rice "You are the expert of your life. We're just here to walk with you for part of the journey." — Dr. Benson Fox "We are biology, psychology, and theology—a biopsychotheo being. And healing has to touch all three." — Diana S. Rice  Resources Mentioned Dr. Benson Fox's website: www.drbensonfox.com Apple Psychological (Dr. Fox's group practice): www.applepsychological.com Florida Autism Resources: Florida DOH: Bright Expectations Autism Support Autism Speaks: www.autismspeaks.org Autism Florida – Adulthood Resources: www.autismfl.org/adulthood Palm Beach Autism Club: www.palmbeachautismclub.com HCBS Providers (New York Examples): FSSNY OHEL Yaldeinu Check your local college or university counseling center for social skills groups and accommodations  Stay Connected with Diana Instagram – The Holistic Counselor Podcast: @theholisticcounselorpodcast Instagram – Through the Valley Therapy: @throughthevalleytherapy Instagram – Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching: @transformedmindcc Website – Therapy: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Website – Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Final Reminder Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind. Share this episode with someone who needs clarity, community, or just a little bit of hope.

Feeling stuck on psychiatric meds and wondering if there's another way? This episode will change the game. Today I'm joined by Dr. Amy O'Donnell, a brilliant integrative psychiatrist who specializes in psychiatric deprescribing and women's mental health. She's helping clients move from surviving on scripts to thriving in mind, body, and spirit. Amy and I get real about the limits of traditional psychiatry, the risks of long-term medication use, and how integrative care offers hope and healing—especially for women navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and reproductive life stages. This conversation is a must-listen for therapists, Christian clinicians, and women in their 20s and 30s who are done with the one-size-fits-all model and ready for faith-informed, evidence-based alternatives.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: What deprescribing actually means—and how to do it safely Why psychiatric meds should be a last resort, not the first step The risks of benzos, SSRIs, and antipsychotics—especially long term How trauma, pregnancy, and meds interact (and what most providers miss) Why faith and science aren't opposites—they can work together Practical, affordable holistic strategies (backed by research!) What to ask your psychiatrist if you're considering tapering  Quotes to Remember: "I was trained to prescribe—no one taught me how to deprescribe. That's what woke me up." — Dr. Amy O'Donnell "Just because you're on medication now doesn't mean you'll be on it forever." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP "Some clients tell me, 'I've been on meds since I was 13, and now I want to have a baby—what do I do?' That's why this conversation matters." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP "We don't just treat brains—we treat people with stories, trauma, and purpose." — Dr. O'Donnell "Small steps lead to big shifts. Start with what you can do today." — Dr. O'Donnell  Holistic Tools & Resources Mentioned: Open Path Collective – Affordable online therapy options NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – National support and education The Emotion Wheel PDF – For emotional regulation [Fish Oil & Multivitamins] – Evidence-based support for depression/anxiety Mind-body practices: yoga, tai chi, breathwork, grounding Functional nutrition: real food > processed, healthy fats, protein balance Apps: Insight Timer, Headspace for mindfulness Conscious Clinician Collective   Related Episodes You'll Love: Ep. 18 – Radical Truths in Mental Health with Dr. Roger McFillin Ep. 58 – How Scripture Gets Weaponized & How to Heal with Rebecca Davis  A Faith-Informed Mental Health Lens We also explore how the faith community often misunderstands mental illness, labeling it as weakness or even demonic. Amy and I unpack the damage that causes and why holistic, Christ-centered care is about empowerment, not shame. "Your biology, psychology, and theology are all divinely connected. You are fearfully and wonderfully made." — Diana  Connect with Dr. Amy O'Donnell: Website: naturesplowpsych.com Licensed in: Florida & Pennsylvania Offering virtual services and relocating to Northeast Florida in 2026  Support the Mission:  Like this episode on YouTube  Leave an honest review wherever you listen (Apple, Spotify, etc.)  Share it with a friend who's navigating mental health with faith  Follow us and tag your insights: @theholisticcounselorpodcast | @throughthevalleytherapy | @transformedmindcc

Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human—and welcome to another episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. I'm your host, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS—founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. Today's guest is the powerful and compassionate Sowania Germain, LMHC-D, PMHC—also known as The Mama Therapist. Sowania joins us to share her courageous story of escaping a spiritually abusive, cult-like church and how her healing journey led her to become a trauma-informed therapist and ministry leader. We unpack how faith can be weaponized, the signs of communal narcissism in spiritual spaces, and how modalities like EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can support deep soul recovery. Whether you're deconstructing your faith, navigating church hurt, or walking with clients through spiritual trauma—this episode is for you.  In This Episode, We Explore: What defines a cult, spiritual abuse, and religious trauma—and why clarity matters How communal narcissism shows up in churches and Christian communities Love bombing, prophetic manipulation, and financial coercion in high-control groups Why some therapists miss the mark when it comes to culturally-embedded spiritual trauma Practical tools for trauma recovery: EMDR, IFS, therapy intensives, and peer support How to rebuild trust in God without bypassing grief, anger, or doubt What to look for in a faith-integrated therapist—and what to avoid Cultural intersections: Haitian, Latinx, and Caribbean experiences with Santería and Catholicism  Mic Drop Quotes "Healing begins when you make peace with the pain—through forgiveness. Forgiving yourself, and those that wronged you." – Sowania Germain, LMHC-D, PMHC   "If a person is on a pulpit and they are not pointing to Jesus Christ—and not encouraging you to open the Word yourself in context—then what are they doing up there?" – Diana S. Rice, LMHC  Resources Mentioned  We Need to Talk Podcast with Ezekiel Azonwu (Sowania's testimony): Watch Here  A Well-Trained Wife by Tia Levings: www.tialevings.com  Call to Peace Ministries – Domestic violence & spiritual abuse education  Moms in Prayer International – Global prayer support network  Religious Trauma Institute – Education on healing religious trauma  The New Evangelicals – Community for exvangelicals and deconstructing Christians  Mental Health Tools Explained EMDR Therapy: Reprocesses painful memories and rewires your brain's response to trauma IFS (Internal Family Systems): Helps identify, honor, and heal your inner "parts" carrying shame, fear, or spiritual wounding CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy rooted in renewing the mind with truth  Connect with Sowania Germain Learn more about Sowania's therapy services, ministry work, and upcoming intensives:  Website: www.sowaniagermainlmhc.com  Instagram: @themamatherapist_  Facebook: Sowania Germain, LMHC  TikTok: @sowania.germain  Stay Connected with Diana Podcast Episodes Therapy Services – Through the Valley Therapy Consulting & Events – Transformed Mind CC    Loved this conversation? Please subscribe, rate, and share it with someone who's navigating church hurt, deconstruction, or healing from spiritual abuse.

Host: Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, Qualified Supervisor Moderator & Founder: Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching Release Date: July 21, 2025 Event: A live webinar hosted by The Agency Austin, created in response to the devastating Central Texas flood and sudden loss of a beloved colleague in a hit-and-run.  Episode Experts: Dr. Kate Johnson (D.Min., LMHC, QS) — Featured in Episode 10: "Untangling the Threads: Insights on Biblical and Clinical Healing" Brian Gong (LMHC, QS; Certified Addiction Professional; EMDR Consultant) — Featured in Episode 60: "Healing Trauma at the Root: EMDR, Addiction, and Accountability"  What We Talk About 1. Why this panel matters In light of the Central Texas flood's massive loss of life and the hit-and-run tragedy, we gathered in community to bring real-time mental health support. This episode isn't clinical theory—it's grounded, compassionate care for real people in real time. 2. Live webinar replay Hear the moderated conversation in full, with trauma-informed tools for healing, grounded in both professional experience and real-life crisis response. 3. Trusted expertise on trauma Each of us—Kate, Brian, and myself—has walked alongside people affected by natural disasters, mass shootings, and community-wide grief. What we offer here is rooted in lived and professional wisdom. 4. Credential clarity Note: I was misintroduced at the start as a registered play therapist—that's incorrect. I am a licensed mental health counselor and integrative mental health provider, not a play therapist. 5. Core message: Hope over credentials Our combined goal: meet you where you are, equip you with hope-filled tools, and remind you how to show up when everything feels broken.  Resources Mentioned (All Hyperlinked) Grounding & Calming Tools 5‑4‑3‑2‑1 Grounding Technique: A sensory method for present‑moment awareness Scribd+7Mental Health Center Kids+7Healthline+7 Grounding Technique Handout (PDF) – 5‑4‑3‑2‑1 printable sheet Apps & Tools Calm (meditation & breathwork app) — mentioned as a go-to for early regulation Apps like Breathly and PAUSE were also referenced as free tools to assist self-care Books & Bibliotherapy Anxiety & Phobia Workbook — recommended for structured coping exercises Brave Bart and A Terrible Thing Happened — children's book supporting grief conversations Professional Therapy EMDR therapy — highly effective for treating trauma symptoms in youth and adults Children's Bereavement Center — national resource for grief support in children Psychology Today therapist search — for vetted local providers via insurance, sliding scales Community Support Models Recommendation to connect with local schools, hospitals, or mental health agencies for support groups  Quick Links Dr. Kate Johnson – Episode 10 – Untangling the Threads Brian Gong – Episode 60 – Healing Trauma at the Root The Agency Austin – [Real Estate & Community Hub]https://theagencyatx.com/  How to Use This Episode: Listen now wherever you get your podcast Share with individuals, support networks, schools, or nonprofit teams Check links above for tools you can implement today Keep the conversation going—check back in with those hurting tomorrow, next month, next year Subscribe for more trauma-informed care, biblical insight, and mental health restoration

Content Warning: This episode includes sensitive discussions around sexual assault, suicidal ideation, religious trauma, and faith deconstruction. Please listen with care and refer to the support resources listed below if needed. In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS welcomes Emmy Award-nominated journalist and author Rebecca Medina Stewart, whose devotional book SEEN: Experiencing God's Tenderness After Trauma offers survivors of sexual assault, grief, depression, and addiction a pathway to healing through faith, journaling, and inner transformation. Rebecca courageously shares how trauma impacted her identity, how she found herself spiraling into darkness and shame, and how therapy, prayer, and spiritual disciplines helped her reclaim her voice, renew her mind, and discover the truth that she is — and always was — seen by God. This is a soul-nourishing episode for anyone who has felt invisible, broken, or forgotten. Whether you're in recovery, deconstructing faith, or supporting others through deep pain — there is hope here.  What You'll Learn: How trauma can fracture your sense of identity — and how God gently rebuilds it Why spiritual disciplines like journaling, meditation, and prayer are vital in healing How therapy and faith work hand-in-hand for emotional restoration The power of community, safe people, and support networks What a healthy church actually looks like for trauma survivors Why shame is a lie — and how to break free from it  Resources & Links Mentioned:  Buy the Book: SEEN: Experiencing God's Tenderness After Trauma  Visit Rebecca's Website & Blog: www.rebeccamedinastewart.com  Listen to Rebecca's Audio Blog: Resources Page  Follow Rebecca on Instagram: @rebeccamedinastewart  National & Local Support: RAINN – National Sexual Assault Hotline (Call 800-656-HOPE) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Call or text 988) 211 Broward County Mental Health Services  Mic-Drop Quotes:  Rebecca Medina Stewart: "Trauma is a liar. It tells you you're alone, unloved, and unworthy. But the truth is: you are seen, you are loved, and you are never beyond healing." "In the darkest moment of my assault, my eyes locked onto a light under the doorway—and now I know, with all certainty, that light was Jesus."  Diana S. Rice, LMHC: "You've got to really think about what the Evil One does—he isolates, whispers, and lies until you start believing the pain is your identity. But Jesus says, 'Renew your mind.'" "We might not understand everything, but whatever you focus on is what will grow. That's neuroplasticity. That's Romans 12. That's healing."  Connect with Diana: Therapy Practice:  Through the Valley Therapy  Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Coaching & Consulting:  Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching  Instagram: @transformedmindcc Podcast & Education:  The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast  Who This Episode Is For: Anyone recovering from trauma, especially sexual assault or complex grief Therapists, pastors, and coaches who support faith-based healing Survivors looking to reclaim their identity and voice Listeners navigating deconstruction, church hurt, or spiritual anxiety Anyone ready to integrate faith + therapy + neuroplasticity  Episode Themes: Trauma-informed Christianity Faith after spiritual abuse or religious confusion Identity recovery and spiritual disciplines Safe churches, sacred community, and mental health Biblically grounded healing and science-backed tools  Listen + Share: If you or someone you love is struggling, let this conversation be a light in the dark. You are not alone. You are not too broken. You are seen. You are loved. You are never beyond healing. Please rate, review, and share with someone who needs this message.

In this powerful conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, sits down with renowned sociologist and author Dr. Corey Keyes — the pioneer who coined the term languishing. If you've ever felt stuck in the fog between burnout and depression but weren't sure how to name it, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Keyes unpacks the groundbreaking Mental Health Continuum model and the five daily "vitamins" of flourishing — evidence-based habits that promote resilience, emotional healing, and a renewed sense of purpose. Diana and Dr. Keyes dive into the role of spirituality, social connection, and play in long-term mental wellness and why traditional models of therapy may stop short at symptom relief without addressing the deeper need for human flourishing. This isn't just a conversation. It's a call to reclaim your sense of aliveness.  Topics We Cover: What is languishing, and why is it often mistaken for depression? The origin story behind Dr. Keyes' research and his own trauma recovery The difference between mental illness and the absence of mental health The 5 "mental health vitamins" that support healing and growth Why spirituality, play, and helping others are essential—not extra How sociological frameworks reveal what psychology often misses Why therapy alone may leave clients "stuck" in languishing How faith leaders, clinicians, and community builders can promote flourishing  Mentioned Resources:  Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down by Dr. Corey Keyes  Buy the book on Amazon  Mental Health Continuum Short Form (MHC-SF): Learn more and download  Mental Health Grace Alliance (Check out episode 57 with Joe Padilla!)  Learn about Acedia – the ancient desert monk concept linked to modern-day languishing  Powerful Quotes from the Episode: "Most of us experience many deaths before the final one—and that's the death of our sense of aliveness. That's languishing." — Dr. Corey Keyes "We're not just here to eliminate symptoms. We're here to help people flourish." — Diana S. Rice "Spirituality isn't fluff. It's your dress rehearsal for when life throws you curveballs." — Dr. Corey Keyes  Connect with Today's Guest: Website: https://www.coreykeyes.com Book: Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down Follow Dr. Keyes' work on flourishing, sociology, and public health via Google Scholar  Connect with Diana S. Rice: Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  

Welcome back, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made friend! In this powerful episode, I sit down with functional dietitian Sarah Weiss, founder of Weiss Choices, to explore the often-overlooked connection between food, mood, and emotional well-being. Sarah shares her personal journey of emotional eating, healing her gut, and leaving behind a high-stress career as a stockbroker to help others reclaim their health through functional nutrition. We break down the gut-brain axis, emotional eating cycles, blood sugar crashes, and the inflammation-anxiety link—plus share real-life tools you can use right away. If you've ever wondered why you crave junk food when you're stressed, or how nutrition can impact your energy, focus, and mood—this episode will give you hope, insight, and practical tools to shift, heal, and grow.  What You'll Learn: The real reason we crave sugar, chips, and comfort food when we're anxious What the gut-brain connection really means (and how it's impacting your mental health daily) How inflammation and blood sugar instability affect your mood Simple, functional nutrition habits that reduce anxiety and boost focus Why poop matters more than you think (yes, we talk stool charts!) How to spot hidden causes of fatigue, burnout, and brain fog Why calorie-counting isn't the answer—and what to do instead How your inner narrative about food and your body can block healing (and how to rewrite it) What neuroplasticity has to do with changing your palate Encouragement for those who feel stuck or ashamed about their eating habits  Quotes to Remember: "If you have a crappy gut, you're going to have crappy thoughts." – Sarah Weiss "It's never all or nothing with your health. It's one step at a time." – Sarah Weiss "Your body isn't broken—it's trying to talk to you." – Diana S. Rice "We live in a society that's addicted to quick fixes, but healing takes real understanding." – Diana S. Rice  Resources & Mentions:  Sarah's Website: https://www.weisschoices.com  Instagram: @weisschoices  Dr. David Bernstein on Nutrition + Mental Health – Listen to Episode 22: Transform Your Mental Health with Christian Integrative Wellness  Books Mentioned: How Not to Die by Dr. Michael Greger Young Forever and other books by Dr. Mark Hyman  Bristol Stool Chart: Learn about your poop!  Connect with Diana S. Rice: Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast Coaching & Trainings: www.transformedmindcc.com

In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, sits down with Daniel Rubin, LMHC, LPC, founder of Transcend Wellness IOP, for an unfiltered and deeply healing conversation about men's mental health, emotional isolation, porn addiction recovery, and the impact of unresolved trauma. We explore the hidden struggles of high-performing men who silently carry shame, spiritual confusion, and emotional neglect. This episode is a call to wholeness, vulnerability, and kingdom-centered healing.  Key Topics We Cover: The neuroscience of porn addiction and shame How early trauma and emotional neglect affect men's identity Why high-functioning men silently suffer—and how to reach them The truth about incel culture, influencers like Andrew Tate, and spiritual confusion How group therapy and IOPs help men break isolation Faith, father wounds, and modeling emotional safety for boys Masculinity without emotional suppression Accountability, compassion, and discipleship in men's healing The unique power of male-only spaces for recovery How retirement and identity loss lead to midlife crisis The spiritual root of addiction and how Jesus redefines masculinity  Powerful Quotes from This Episode: "We have to stop trying to protect our kids from pain and start teaching them what to do with it." – Daniel Rubin "You don't have to lose your masculinity to be emotionally mature." – Daniel Rubin "If you wouldn't give it to your inner child, why are you still feeding it to yourself?" – Daniel Rubin "There's a silent epidemic of men pretending they're okay while dying on the inside. Healing requires truth, tribe, and Jesus." – Diana S. Rice "Accountability isn't condemnation—it's invitation to freedom." – Diana S. Rice "Men are longing to be seen, but they've been taught not to feel. That disconnect is killing them." – Daniel Rubin  Resources Mentioned:  Education + Support: Your Brain On Porn – Research on the neuroscience of porn addiction NoFap Reddit Community – Peer accountability & support Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) XXXChurch – Christian-based porn addiction support for men LightPhone – A minimalist phone to reduce screen & dopamine addiction Transcend Wellness IOP – Daniel's IOP program for high-functioning men  Connect with Daniel Rubin: Website: https://southfloridamentalhealth.com/ Instagram: @transcend_wellness_iop  Connect with Diana S. Rice:   Therapy: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com Podcast IG: @theholisticcounselorpodcast YouTube: Watch the show on YouTube

In today's soul-stirring episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, sits down with her business coach, the dynamic Laura Long, LMFT, MBA. Together, they dive deep into topics that most entrepreneurs quietly wrestle with: the fear of success, financial mindset struggles (especially for faith-filled women), burnout recovery, and what it really takes to sustain a practice without losing your mind—or your mission. You'll hear raw truths, lots of laughter (and maybe a tear or two), and real-life tools you can start using today. Whether you're a therapist, a coach, a ministry leader, or a creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with wisdom bombs you won't want to miss. Featured Guests:  Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS Founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching  Laura Long, LMFT, MBA Therapist, Consultant, Speaker, and Creator of Your Badass Therapy Practice Learn more about Laura Long here Key Topics Covered:  Why fear of success (not failure) is often what keeps us stuck  Why faith-filled women often struggle with charging what they're worth  Burnout vs. Compassion Fatigue: Knowing the difference could save your career (and your sanity)  Practical ways to heal from burnout without adding "one more thing" to your to-do list  How entrepreneurship and surrender actually go together (hint: hold the reins loosely)  The unique power of community for counselors, coaches, and creatives Powerful Quotes from This Episode:  "Fear of success is what happens when we realize success means more responsibility—and more energy spent." — Diana S. Rice  "If this thing works, it might change who I am. That's scarier than failing." — Laura Long  "Your value was given by God. It's not tied to your rates, your degrees, or your productivity." — Laura Long  "Sacrifice? There's only one sacrificial lamb—and it's not you." — Diana S. Rice  "God often leads in steps, not leaps. Start small. Surrender." — Laura Long  "Burnout didn't happen overnight, and healing won't either." — Laura Long Resources Mentioned:  Wise Practice Podcast Episode 114 with Laura Long: Listen here  Journey to the Heart by Melody Beattie – a devotional favorite for seasons of burnout  Bible — always the ultimate resource for healing, direction, and truth  Wise Practice Summit — Join Diana and Laura this October! Practical Takeaways: If you're facing burnout, start small: sit outside, listen to a bird, breathe, cry if needed. Separate your personal worth from your business pricing. You are priceless. Focus on one thing at a time. Spreading yourself too thin doesn't make you more valuable—it makes you crispy. You're not meant to do life (or business) alone. Find community—even if it's just one safe person right now. Remember: rest is productive. Connect with Us: Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS Website: Through the Valley Therapy Coaching: Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy | @transformedmindcc  Laura Long, LMFT, MBA Website: Laura Long Coaching: Wise Practice Consulting Help Us Grow  If today's episode encouraged you, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with a friend! Your support helps more hearts find hope and healing.