Let’s talk about all things AEDP

Sue Marriott and Diana Fosha explore the key principles of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and its transformative impact on the field. AEDP begins with the premise of “healing from the get-go,” and fostering change from the first session. It emphasizes “undoing aloneness” by building a supportive therapeutic relationship, while encouraging clients to engage deeply with emotions. Join us as we highlight techniques like metatherapeutic processing, where clients reflect on their healing experience, and integrating neuroscience into clinical practice.

“The basic quality of emergent experience is a surrender to the experience of flow, of being in the zone.”

– Dr. Diana Fosha

Looking for extra community and connection post-election? Join us for our second free, live virtual holding circle on Friday, November 22nd at 3 PM CST – Click here to learn more 

Time Stamps for AEDP

02:55 The importance of healing from the get-go
06:06 Understanding “Undoing aloneness”
28:34 Dropping down into the body and connecting with emotions
33:28 Explanation and application of Metatherapeutic processing
35:28 Creating a safe and transformative relationship with clients
51:20 The societal impact of AEDP

About our Guest – Dr. Diana Fosha 

Diana Fosha PhD is the developer of AEDPTM, a healing-oriented, radically relational experiential psychotherapy to transform trauma, heal attachment wounds and help people connect to their vitality. She is Founder and Director of the AEDP Institute. Her “heightened sensitivity to the promises of life” recognized, she has been also described as having “an extraordinary gift for hope.” For the last 20 years, Diana has been active in promoting a scientific basis for a healing-oriented, attachment-emotion- and transformation-focused trauma treatment model. Fosha’s work focuses on integrating neuroplasticity, recognition science and developmental dyadic research into experiential and transformational clinical work with patients. Her most recent work, Undoing aloneness and the transformation of suffering into flourishing: AEDP 2.0, (APA, 2021), focuses on flourishing as a seamless part of the process of transforming emotional suffering.  She is the author of The transforming power of affect: A model for accelerated change (Basic Books, 2000); co-author, with Natasha Prenn, of Supervision essentials for Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (APA, 2016); 1st editor, with Daniel Siegel and Marion Solomon, of The healing power of emotion: Affective neuroscience, development & clinical practice (Norton, 2009), and editor of the soon to be released AEDP 2.0: Four DVDs of her live AEDP clinical work, including one documenting a complete 6-session treatment, and one on clinical supervision have been issued by the American Psychological Association (APA). Described by psychoanalyst James Grotstein as a “prizefighter of intimacy,” and by David Malan as “the Winnicott of [accelerated experiential] psychotherapy,” Diana Fosha’s writing style is powerful and precise, yet poetic and evocative. Her phrases —“undoing aloneness,” “existing in the heart and mind of the other,” “rigor without shame” and “True Other”  — capture the ethos of AEDP. 

Resources for AEDP

www.aedpinstitute.org  – View some of Dr. Fosha’s papers here 

Metatherapeutic Processing Supports the Emergence of Flourishing in Psychotherapy – by Dr. Diana Fosha

How to be a Transformational Therapist – by Dr. Diana Fosha

Speculations on Emergence: Working the Edge of Transformational Experience and Neuroplasticity – by Dr. Diana Fosha

Healing Attachment Trauma with Attachment (& then some!) – by Dr. Diana Fosha

Click here to learn more!!

 

 

 

 

 

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

 

Events, Announcements & Resource Links for Secure Relating & the Election

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Check out our other past and upcoming events here!! 

Our Sponsors for this Episode – 

Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms!  Listeners get 20% off plus a free starter kit.  Piquelife.com/tu

Our favorite skin quencher.  Use the code TU when you checkout at oneskin.co

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Many are baffled by the so strong feelings around the 2024 election results – let us help you get it.

Families are dividing, couples are blowing up and neighbors are being cut off.  When you are close to someone who didn’t vote with you this year, you are likley in some distress. The shock and pain for some groups after the election and the corresponding lack of understanding is a recipe for dysregulation.

We explore the complexities of political identity, emotional responses, and the impact of political discourse on all of our personal relationships in the wake of a divisive presidential election. Ann and Sue, alongside Michael Hilgers, LPC, emphasize the need for deeper conversations that transcend binary thinking and the significance of co-regulation in healing and fostering unity amidst division. They explore the challenges of navigating relationships where political views differ, emphasizing the value of patience, compassion, and open curiosity to foster understanding.

The conversation touches on the risks of lasting family divides and underscores the importance of creating safe, respectful spaces for meaningful conversations. Ultimately, it encourages empathy and small, thoughtful steps toward more compassionate communication.

“We all play a role in this democracy. We need to remember the power of every vote. I continue, too, to keep myself connected to a force that’s larger and more potent than any one election, or leader, or news story—and that’s optimism. For me, this is a form of faith, an antidote to fear.” – Michelle Obama

Looking for extra community and connection post-election? Join us for our second free, live virtual holding circle on Friday, November 22nd at 3 PM CST – Click here to learn more 

Time Stamps for Aftermath of the Election

00:00 Navigating identity
02:52 The aftermath of the 2024 Presidential election based on gender
06:09 Understanding huge emotional responses for those who care
08:56 The difficulty of empathy and connection when stakes are high
15:01 Co-regulation
17:54 The role of historical trauma in reactions to current events
20:56 Is common ground possible?
25:32 Betrayal
27:09 Listening and holding space rather than fixing it
29:31 Patience in difficult conversations
30:35 Political divides in relationships
32:00 The risk of permanent divisions
39:18 Concrete steps for compassionate communication
42:08 Addressing name-calling and intentional humiliation

About our Guest – Michael Hilgers, LPC

Michael Hilgers, LPC is a licensed Professional Counselor who maintains an online Counseling Practice specializing in work with Creatives and Entrepreneurs. After almost 25 years in Austin, Tx, he moved to the mountains of Northern New Mexico where he works with clients from around the globe.

 

 

Check out the most anticipated conference for Experiential Dynamic Therapists!! San Diego, CA – November 13th-15th –  IEDTA’s 2024 conference highlights the power of the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy. Register here! 

 

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

 

Events, Announcements & Resource Links for Secure Relating & the Election

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Check out our other past and upcoming events here!! 

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

The election tension can be divisive – but we don’t have to be

The political events in the United States have been a major contributor to our anxieties these past years, and with our significant presidential election looming over us this week – Ann and Sue are here to talk about the hard things. While the world feels unpredictable on the outside, one thing we can do is focus on the intricate relationship between our nervous systems and the emotional responses triggered by political events. They discuss how fear and anxiety are often manipulated through political rhetoric, leading to division and polarization, the importance of understanding how personal relationships amidst these tensions are emphasized, and the need for secure relating and accountability from leaders. There is power in recognizing the complexity of political opinions and the necessity of maintaining open dialogue to foster connection rather than division. Join us as we explore how to navigate differences, the importance of empathy and community, and the need for resilience during uncertain times.

“We are resilient beings and we will get through this.”

Time Stamps for Secure Relating & the Election

00:00 Understanding the Nervous System’s Role in Fear
03:00 The Impact of Political Rhetoric on Our Emotions
05:56 Navigating Personal Relationships Amidst Political Divisions
09:06 The Complexity of Political Opinions
11:57 The Importance of Secure Relating in Divided Times
14:52 Holding Leaders Accountable in a Polarized Environment
25:49 The Importance of Secure Relating
30:02 Navigating Division and Conflict
36:32 Finding Resilience in Uncertain Times
41:20 Empathy and Community in Crisis
46:36 Promoting Secure Relating for a Better Future

Resources for Secure Relating & the Election

A Started Guide for Surviving Election Season” – Important reminders from Oh Happy Dani, the Everyday Advocate Vote.org – Nonpartisan tool for voting logistics and information “8 Questions that can help you survive election stress” – Helpful resource from UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Magazine Somatic Techniques for Stress & Anxiety – Somatic practices from Brooklyn Somatic Therapy

Check out the most anticipated conference for Experiential Dynamic Therapists!! San Diego, CA – November 13th-15th –  IEDTA’s 2024 conference highlights the power of the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy. Register here! 

 

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

 

Events, Announcements & Resource Links for Secure Relating & the Election

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Check out our other past and upcoming events here!! 

Support this library of content at TU staying FREE and TOTALLY ACCESSIBLE by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode – 

Go to ZocDoc.com/TU

Compare high quality, in-network doctors, choose the right one for your needs, and click to instantly book an appointment.

 

 

Become the best version of yourself and get 15% off Ned products with code TU.

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Our first ever LIVE podcast recording

Alongside Pam Benson Owens, Ann and Sue explore a variety of topics with a live audience at the KUYA Wellness center in Austin, TX. Referencing their book, Secure Relating: Holding Your Own in an Insecure World, they delve into the neuroscience behind relationships, discussing attachment styles and emotional regulation, and emphasize the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue. They highlight the significance of understanding generational trauma and the complexities of navigating relationships in a diverse society. Through personal stories and insightful discussions, they shine a light on the power of self-awareness, encouraging listeners to explore their own emotional landscapes with compassion and curiosity. Learn how creating safe spaces for open dialogue can deepen connections, while understanding the role of pauses and curiosity in everyday conversations.

“The power of the pause is essential.” – Pam Benson Owens 

Time Stamps for KUYA

07:05 Understanding Neuroscience in Relationships
20:28 Navigating Emotional States and Attachment
30:00 Creating Safe Spaces in Conversations
34:51 Navigating Activation and Agency
39:41 The Role of Shame in Learning
44:14 The Power of the Pause and Curiosity
49:36 Strategic Communication in Relationships
54:43 Repression vs. Calibration of Emotions
01:00:17 Cultural Norms and DEI Conversations
01:03:05 Boundaries in Relationships
01:05:20 Generational Trauma and Cultural Clashes

About our Guest – Pam Benson Owens, President & CEO

Pamela Benson Owens is the President and CEO of Edge of Your Seat Consulting, Inc and is also serving as the CEO of Six Square. For 25+ years Pam has owned Edge of Your Seat Consulting, a unique consulting firm that is dedicated to assisting for-profit, nonprofit, and faith-based entities. The major focus of Edge of Your Seat Consulting, Inc., is to provide methodologies that help manage perceptions and narratives about complex and challenging issues with courage and strategic passion. Pam leverages humor and honest storytelling to create memorable and applicable strategies for sustainable and substantive change. Pam serves on several non-profit boards, is the co-chair of the Black Fund a partnership with Austin Community Foundation, joyfully serves on the faculty of the Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Austin Community College, is often a guest lecturer at institutions of higher learning and thrives on the opportunities her consultancy work paves the way to assist organizations to be stronger by navigating the nuances of organizational culture.

Resources for KUYA

Click here to view Pam’s website – Edge of Your Seat Consulting

KUYA  – Mental Health & Wellness Center in Austin, TX & host of our recording

Practices – Register now for the Holistic Attachment Summit!! – This summit will explore the most essential ideas in attachment theory, research, and how they can be applied to create deep and lasting healing for clients — enabling you to be at the forefront of evidence-based care. Click here to register!!

 

Check out the most anticipated conference for Experiential Dynamic Therapists!! San Diego, CA – November 13th-15th –  IEDTA’s 2024 conference highlights the power of the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy. Register here! 

 

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

 

Events, Announcements & Resource Links 

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Check out our other past and upcoming events here!! 

Support this library of content at TU staying FREE and TOTALLY ACCESSIBLE by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode – 

Our favorite skin quencher.  Use the code TU when you checkout at oneskin.co

 

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults 

James Ochoa and co-host Sue Marriott explore the different subtypes of ADHD, and the impact on adults who are navigating a diagnosis later in life. As an ADHD expert, Ochoa shares insights on the emotional and mental stress that accompanies ADHD, as well as provides different techniques for managing symptoms. With an emphasis on the importance of self-care, communication, and personalized strategies, he provides resources and training for adults with ADHD, professionals who work with ADHD clients, and family members of individuals with ADHD.

“…It feels like their attachment to themselves has always seemed off, and when they receive an accurate diagnosis then suddenly there’s these lights that turn on…” – James Ochoa

Time Stamps for New Frontiers of Adult ADHD

02:05 Stumbling Upon an Adult ADHD Diagnosis
04:40 Understanding the Subtypes of ADHD
08:06 Resourcing and Self-Care for ADHD
10:04 Managing ADHD Symptoms: Breathing Exercises and Micro-Meditations
15:32 Interrupting Over-activation and Panic in ADHD
26:55 Managing ADHD: Strategies and Self-Care
31:17 Supporting Loved Ones with ADHD
35:37 Educating Professionals on ADHD
43:49 Resources and Training for ADHD

About our Guest – James Ochoa 

For over thirty years, James Ochoa, LPC, has combined counseling, coaching, mentoring, and intuition to help adults with ADHD overcome challenges, pursue passions, and live meaningful lives. Most of his clients seek help beyond ADHD organization and time-management strategies. As valuable as those skills can be, James’ key concepts involve working with his clients’ imagination, life history and inner resources. His insight-and-action-based counseling style has helped clients from all walks of life, including executives, indie film producers, college students, religious leaders and beyond. He welcomes individuals, couples, and family members, whether from Austin, Texas, or points beyond. James is also working on his second book, When the Shiny Wears Off, Navigating the Lifetime Storms of Adult ADHD, which focuses on how to handle the chronic stress of ADHD that never completely stops wreaking havoc. The book will offer ample strategies to help mitigate the impact this disruption has on relationships, career, self-care, and mental health.

Resources for New Frontiers of Adult ADHD

Living Well With ADHD – 10/19 live, in-person training in Austin, TX – This is a great resource for ADHD awareness month that is happening the entire month of October! (Use code TU30OFF for 30% off)

JamesOchoa.com – James’s Website

Focused Forward – James’s Book

ADHD Town Hall – Webinar Series

Storm Team – 12 -Topic ADHD series

Professional Trailblazing – Training for Professionals

Focused Forward – James Ochoa’s Book – Get your copy here!!

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds. If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

 

Events, Announcements & Resource Links 

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Mind, Body, Social, & Spiritual Approaches for Healing Attachment: 30 World-Leading Pioneers Share Their Best Practices – Register now for the Holistic Attachment Summit!! – This summit will explore the most essential ideas in attachment theory, research, and how they can be applied to create deep and lasting healing for clients — enabling you to be at the forefront of evidence-based care. Click here to register!!

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Check out our other past and upcoming events here!! 

Support this library of content at TU staying FREE and TOTALLY ACCESSIBLE by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode – 

Go to ZocDoc.com/TU

Compare high quality, in-network doctors, choose the right one for your needs, and click to instantly book an appointment.

 

 

Become the best version of yourself and get 15% off Ned products with code TU.

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Exploring the science behind the complex acronyms

Sue Marriott and Ann Kelley discuss Experiential Dynamic Therapies (EDTs) with experts Margaret Martin and Dr. Deb Pollack. These therapies focus on recognizing and challenging defenses that lead to problems both internally and relationally. Learn the difference between defenses that feel right (Egosyntonic) and those that don’t (Egodystonic) and why it’s important to work against them for change. This episode is a dive into the role of EDTS in individual therapy, and highlights the need for an integrated approach to address underlying trauma, plus much more!

“Turning against defenses is key to creating change.” – Dr. Deborah Pollack

Time Stamps for Challenging Defenses: An Introduction to Experiential Dynamic Therapies (EDTS)

00:00 Introduction to Experiential Dynamic Therapies
04:07 Understanding Defenses and Creating Change
08:19 Turning Against Defenses
13:49 Building Capacity and Accessing Core Feelings
20:05 Working with Resistance and Anxiety
23:49 Exploring Different Models within EDTs
29:22 Understanding and Working with Defenses
36:14 Building Capacity and Regulating Emotions
39:05 Challenging Defenses and Facilitating Character Change
45:04 Integrating Modalities for Comprehensive Healing
48:31 The Role of the Therapist in Addressing Defenses
54:49 Compassionate and Supportive Therapeutic Relationships

About our Guests – Dr. Deborah Pollack & Margaret Martin, LCSW

Dr. Deborah Pollack is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Utica University and a clinical
psychologist in private practice near Syracuse, New York. She also has faculty appointments at SUNY Upstate Medical University and Syracuse University, where she teaches and supervises doctoral students in psychology. Dr. Pollack is active on the board of the International Experiential Dynamic Therapy Association (IEDTA), serving as recording secretary and on several
standing committees. She is the President-elect of the Central New York Psychological Association. Dr. Pollack is a qualitative researcher and most recently has investigated the application of EDT-informed therapy for mothers with postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. She has been studying the EDTs since 2009 and is certified as a Teacher and Supervisor through the IEDTA. She is currently running a core training in ISTDP and she also offers individual supervision in ISTDP for licensed or license-eligible therapists. In her free time, Deb enjoys traveling, sewing, and hiking, especially in the Adirondack
mountains where she is working on hiking all 46 high peaks.

Margaret Martin, LCSW is an individual and couple therapist practicing in Austin, Texas,
where she specializes in complex trauma. She began training with Stan Tatkin,
developer of the PACT model, in 2012. She now coaches PACT level one and two students and provides training for the PACT Institute, and hosts a monthly online discussion group for PACT and PACT-curious therapists. In 2022 Margaret completed the PACT Institute’s inaugural invitation-only certification program and is one of 25 therapists worldwide to receive the designation of PACT-certified therapist. In 2019 she began training in ISTDP and developed a passion for incorporating aspects of ISTDP into her work with couples. With colleague Kathryn Barksdale, Margaret co-developed Trauma Wise Therapy, a framework for working with high-trauma couples. Margaret active on the board of the International Experiential Dynamic Therapy Association (IEDTA) and chairs the IEDTA Diversity Committee. A self-described training junkie, she also trained in Somatic Experiencing, Eye Movement
Desensitization Reprocessing, Emotional Transformation Therapy, Brainspotting, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy. She is slightly fanatic about trauma-informed care, deliberate practice for therapists, cats, and fiber arts of any kind.

Resources for this Episode – Challenging Defenses: An Introduction to Experiential Dynamic Therapies (EDTS)

Margaret Martin, LCSW – Margaret Martin’s website

Deborah Pollack, PhD – Dr. Deborah Pollack’s website

Check out the most anticipated conference for Experiential Dynamic Therapists!! San Diego, CA – November 13th-15th –  IEDTA’s 2024 conference highlights the power of the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy. Register here! 

IEDTA Certified Training –  Info on training in Experiential Dynamic Therapies

Application to join the EDT List

Additional resources on ISTDP and Experiential Dynamic Therapies

Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy by Patricia Coughlin – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Reaching Through Resistance by Allan Abbass – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy: A Reference by Nat Kuhn MD – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Treating Affect Phobia: A Manual for Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy by Leigh McCullough, et al – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Healing through Relating: A Skill-Building Book for Therapists by Jon Frederickson – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Changing Character: Short-term Anxiety-regulating Psychotherapy For Restructuring Defenses, Affects, And Attachment by Leigh Mccullough Vaillant – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Mastering Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy: A Roadmap to the Unconscious by Josette ten Have-de Labije and Robert J. Neborsky – Recommended by Margaret Martin

The Lies We Tell Ourselves by Jon Frederickson – Recommended by Margaret Martin

The Transforming Power Of Affect: A Model For Accelerated Change by Diana Fosha – Recommended by Margaret Martin

A Therapist’s Handbook to Dissolve Shame and Defense and Master the Moment by Susan Warren Warshow – Recommended by Margaret Martin

Hidden From View: A clinician’s guide to psychophysiologic disorders by Allan Abbass – Recommended by Margaret Martin

https://istdpinstitute.com/resources/intensive-short-term-dynamic-psychotherapy-an-introduction/

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds.

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE please please leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Events, Announcements & Resource Links 

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Mind, Body, Social, & Spiritual Approaches for Healing Attachment: 30 World-Leading Pioneers Share Their Best Practices – Register now for the Holistic Attachment Summit!! – This summit will explore the most essential ideas in attachment theory, research, and how they can be applied to create deep and lasting healing for clients — enabling you to be at the forefront of evidence-based care. Click here to register!!

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Check out our other past and upcoming events here!! 

Support this library of content at TU staying FREE and TOTALLY ACCESSIBLE by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode – 

Our favorite skin quencher.  Use the code TU when you checkout at oneskin.co

Become the best version of yourself and get 15% off Ned products with code TU.

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Centering voices and perspectives of marginalized couples is crucial in therapy

Co-host Sue Marriott and Akilah Riley Richardson dive into a wide-ranging discussion about the vital need to center marginalized voices of clients – and therapists. They explore how Western perspectives have shaped therapy practices globally, often overlooking diverse cultural approaches. Akilah brings a fresh, challenging perspective to the table. She pushes for a real shake-up in how we approach therapy, especially when working with marginalized couples. It’s not just about tweaking existing methods – she’s calling for a fundamental rethinking of our assumptions.

The conversation tackles some heavy topics, from unpacking the concept of relational privilege to developing strategies that help couples see beyond their individual struggles to the bigger picture of systemic trauma. What really stands out is their focus on the deep impact of systemic trauma. They don’t just acknowledge it – they dig into why it’s so crucial for therapists to truly understand and address it in their work.

Ultimately, this discussion isn’t just academic. It’s a call to action for therapists to step up, broaden their perspectives, and find new ways to help couples break free from systemic constraints. It’s about empowering relationships and, in the process, maybe changing the face of therapy itself.

“Our ways of understanding healing are not always in the traditionally confined space of therapy. Dance is healing, drumming is healing, movement is healing…” – Akilah Riley-Richardson

Time Stamps for Liberating Marginalized Couples from Systemic Trauma

00:00 Introduction and Akilah’s background
02:15 The influence of the global north on therapy practices in the global south
06:24 Understanding relational privilege in marginalized couples
28:36 The impact of systemic trauma on marginalized couples
30:50 The theater of oppression: Mapping themes onto relationships
36:51 Learning about relationships through systemic trauma
40:59 Challenging the therapy profession
46:13 The bubble of psychotherapy
48:43 Redefining and reclaiming narratives of survival
53:28 The urgency of addressing systemic trauma
56:16 Challenging the profession and implementing systemic change
59:04 Taking action and being part of the work

About our Guest – Akilah Riley-Richardson MSW, CCTP

Akilah Riley-Richardson is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, a Facilitator and Trainer, as well as a Couples Therapist, certified in the STAIR Method. She has received training in various areas including Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, Playback Theatre, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Neuroscience, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy. She is the founder of the  Relational Healing Institute, which is dedicated to the healing of relationships, especially those of marginalized people, and is also the creator of the P.R.I.D.E model which is an approach that is useful when working with clients and in clinical supervision. P.R.I.D.E stands for Pivot, Rumble, Imagine, Develop and Evolve.

Resources for this Episode – Liberating Marginalized Couples from Systemic Trauma

Akilah Riley-Richardson’s Website – Information & Resources

Indigenous Social Work Around the World by Towards Culturally Relevant Education and Practice by John Coates & Mel Grey – Book referenced by Akilah Riley-Richardson

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds.

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE please please leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Related episodes:

Navigating Racial Trauma and identity with Debra Chapman-Finley and Gliceria Perez part 1: TU203 AND Part 2: TU204

In each other’s Care Building and Sustaining Healthy Relationships with Stan Tatkin TU TU112

Mind Body Heart Spirit Embodying Liberation Psychology with Dr. Shena YoungTU230

Couples Therapy with Ellyn Bader and Peter Pearson TU 140

Events, Announcements & Resource Links 

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Mind, Body, Social, & Spiritual Approaches for Healing Attachment: 30 World-Leading Pioneers Share Their Best Practices – Register now for the Holistic Attachment Summit!! – This summit will explore the most essential ideas in attachment theory, research, and how they can be applied to create deep and lasting healing for clients — enabling you to be at the forefront of evidence-based care. Click here to register!!

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

Austin Women’s professional development summit – it’s a huge networking event 9/13/24!  Get your tickets now!

Support this library of content at TU staying FREE and TOTALLY ACCESSIBLE by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode – 

ARMRA Colostrum is a proprietary concentrate of bovine colostrum that harnesses over 400 living, bioactive nutrients that strengthen the barriers of your body and fuel cellular health for thousands of research-backed health benefits. Go to ARMRA.com and use code TU at checkout!

 

Go to ZocDoc.com/TU

Compare high quality, in-network doctors, choose the right one for your needs, and click to instantly book an appointment.

Purity Woods is on a mission is to provide people with the cleanest, most effective, and healthy products available – formulated by skin care chemists at the top of their field.  Go to puritywoods.com/TU or enter code TU at checkout

Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us! 

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy – the good, the questionable and what to worry about

Pychedelic assisted therapy

Nigel Denning is a pioneer in the field of training and research around the therapeutic use of medicines, and as an Australian, has seen what happens when psychedelics become legalized.  He and co-host Sue Marriott discuss the state of psychedelic-assisted therapy as it ‘officially’ emerges in the United States.  They discuss the efficacy of psychedelics such as MDMA and psilocybin as well as concerns about how these medicines are implemented and by whom. The need for structured treatment that supports integration with a solid theory of mind is emphasized.

Denning shares how the substances offer new opportunities for those who have not had success with traditional treatments, as well as addresses the concerns and skepticism around the science. Through their emphasis on the importance of proper setting, preparation, and integration he also highlights the importance of collaboration and community in the future of psychedelic therapy. Integrative Attachment Therapy was recommended as a sound training model to support those training in psychedelic integration.

“Psychedelics can help create the conditions for new opportunity” – Nigel Denning

Time Stamps for Unlocking the Potential of Psychedelics

04:37 The State of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Australia
13:46 Addressing Criticism and Skepticism: The Need for Scientific Explanation
21:58 Understanding the Effects of MDMA on the Brain
26:41 Understanding the Effects of Psilocybin on the Brain
29:31 The Importance of Set and Setting, Preparation, and Integration
32:41 Integration in Psychedelic Therapy
36:35 Concerns about Commercialization and Lack of Regulation
44:54 Training and Collaboration in Psychedelic Therapy
49:22 Psychotherapy as a Catalyst for Transformation and Resilience

About our Guest – Nigel Denning – Unlocking the Potential of Therapeutic Psychedelics

Nigel Denning is a counseling psychologist who runs Integrative Psychology in Melbourne, Australia. He earned a Masters degree in English literature before entering Psychology. Denning developed a national training psychedelic-assisted therapy for Mind Medicine Australia, which is described by Professor David Nutt as “the world’s best.” Denning is a clinical lead in three psychedelic trials and has developed an attachment training program with David Elliott. He also mediated a healing process with two large Catholic colleges with histories of employing pedophiles, as well as worked on the George Pell prosecution. Denning has worked in institutional abuse and was instrumental in dismantling a Hindu sex cult. He has lectured a many universities and ran professional training for the College of Counseling psychologists, and trains in Tibetan Bon DzogChen following his mentor, Daniel P. Brown.

Resources for Unlocking the Potential of Therapeutic Psychedelics

Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. It just so happens it is also Dennings recommended program as discussed in this. episode!   Use our link for a discount! 

Shadow Work and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies – Article from Mind Medicine Australia by Nigel Denning

Integrative Attachment Therapy (IAT) – Media Release

Integrative Psychology – Website & Resource

Previous episodes on psychedelic-assisted therapies to deepen your exploration:

Non-drug Psychedelic Therapy with Trey Ratcliff TU 129

A Dose of Hope TU Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy with Dan Engle 167

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds.

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

 

Events, Announcements & Resource Links 

From Triggers to Boundaries – Secure Relating in Tumultuous Times – Reserve your spot now!! – Join us for a live podcast recording bridging psychological research with real-world application. Ann and Sue will unpack the most practical aspects of modern attachment theory and relational neurobiology to help you navigate challenging times in everyday life.

Mind, Body, Social, & Spiritual Approaches for Healing Attachment: 30 World-Leading Pioneers Share Their Best Practices – Register now for the Holistic Attachment Summit!! – This summit will explore the most essential ideas in attachment theory, research, and how they can be applied to create deep and lasting healing for clients — enabling you to be at the forefront of evidence-based care. Click here to register!!

Trauma Therapy Directory – Resources for Trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD – Created by our friends at the Trauma Therapy Network!

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Improv in Therapy and in Life –

Explore the power – and sheer fun – of using improvisation in therapy!

Dr. Ann Kelley and Lisa Kays discuss how improv can deepen conversations around tough topics like race and oppression. They examine white supremacy culture and show how improv values like collaboration, slowing down, and embracing complexity can challenge these norms. Improv fosters creativity, playfulness, and self-reflection to help reduce defensiveness and strengthen relationships in everyday life, at work, or in our closest relationships. By creating a supportive, collaborative environment, improv deepens connections and helps people tap into a wider range of emotions.

“A culture of improvisation is collaborative – it is nature – you cannot do it by yourself.” – Lisa Kays

Time Stamps for Improv in Therapy & Life

03:30 The integration of improv and tough conversations
10:03 The origins of improv and its connection to social justice
14:27 Contrasting white supremacy culture and improv culture
19:20 Questioning cultural norms and valuing relationships
25:29 The power of the ‘And’ in joining and connecting
38:27 The power of improv in building secure relationships
53:25 Embracing creativity and letting go of perfectionism
58:12 Creating a culture of support and collaboration
01:05:04 Applying improv in everyday life
01:09:10 Deepening connections and accessing different emotions

About our Guest for Improv Therapy – Lisa Kays LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C

Lisa Kays, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, is an independently licensed clinical social worker in Washington, D.C, Maryland, Virginia, Oregon and New Jersey. She obtained her MSW from Catholic University in 2011 and has worked in a variety of clinical settings. Since 2013, she has been in private practice, providing individual, couples and group therapy to adults. She has interest in social work ethic and has published on and leads ethics training on the intersection of technology, social media and social work ethics as well as anti-racism and systemic oppression. Her practice also provides opportunities for other presenters to develop CE trainings on under-taught topics linked to social justice, systemic racism, and oppression. In addition to her traditional psychotherapy work, Lisa was a performing improviser from 2007-2019 and was on the faculty of Washington Improv Theatre from 2008-2016. She developed Washington Improv Theater’s first Improv for Therapist’s class and has offered Improv for Therapists courses, workshops and trainings to individual clinicians, pastors, life coaches, and psychiatrists, as well as clinical agencies. Since its inception, Lisa has trained more than 500 people in the application of improvisation to foster personal growth and stronger and more cohesive groups. Lisa has been invited to lead trainings in improv-informed therapy at the American Academy of Psychotherapists, the Mid-Atlantic Group Psychotherapy Association, the American Group Psychotherapy Association, and at The Psychotherapy Networker, among others. Her work has been featured in The Washington Post and on NBC4. Recently, Lisa launched a humor, humility-infused podcast, “What if Nothing’s Wrong With You?” with co-host Paula D. Atkinson on themes related to therapy, mental health, oppression, patriarchy and how it’s all interconnected.

Resources for Improv Therapy – 

Lisa Kay’s – Website & Resources

The Fierce Urgency of Now: Improvisation, Rights, and the Ethics of Cocreation (Improvisation, Community, and Social Practice) – by Fischlin, Daniel; Heble, Ajah; Lipsitz, George

Theater Games – Viola Spolin Resources Rehearsals for Growth – Website and Educational Resources Decolonizing Therapy: Oppression, Historical Trauma, and Politicizing Your Practice – book by Jennifer Mullan, PsyD The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron – Book and Resources Free Play: Improvisation in Life and Art – Nachmanovitch, Stephen

And of course, our book is also a great resource – it’s for professionals and life-long learners of all kinds.

If you’ve read it we’d love to hear from you and if you support it, PLEASE leave a review on either Amazon or Goodreads. Tk you!!

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

Therapists: This is our recommended class for going deeper and learning the most. You will not be disappointed! Use our link for a discount! 

Dr. Elliott’s Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information

 

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Thanks for listening, friends! 

Everyone is familiar with reacting “in the heat of the moment,” but do we really understand what that means? Regulation basics include the protection or connection pathways to interpersonal relating.

With the high tension we’re experiencing in the world today, it can feel particularly challenging to practice secure relating. We are re-sharing one of our impactful episodes where Ann Kelley and Sue Marriott explore the inner workings of our nervous system auto-pilot settings: protection vs connection.

Click here to view the original show notes for this episode!

Time Stamps for Protection or Connection

00:00 Understanding our internal working model
01:05 Our body responds so much faster than our mind03:11 The story we tell amplifies the body’s response
05:30 Story vs State: Protective System and the Relational Connective System
08:11 Awareness of our state and identifying the tells of a protective system
16:12 The awareness of self in the presence of another, the relational system
17:49 Our smartest brain
19:30 Tells when you’re in a relational, connective, and reflective place
25:21 Tolerating difficult emotions
29:32 Use your own name to identify yourself
31:24 Ways to calm your body down
36:40 Pre-emptive strike; we get defensive because of the threat inside of our body
39:26 Positive interpretation of a story
41:02 Conclusion

_______

Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

 

Support the show by supporting our partners and the sponsors of today’s episode

Go to Piquelife.com/tu

Go to helloned.com/TU or enter code TU at checkout.

 

Dr. Elliott’s Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information – Follow this link for 5% off enrollment!

 

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Dr. Ann Kelley and Hyeseung Song, a first-generation Korean American discuss Hyeseung's experiences growing up as an Asian minority in America, touching on topics like racial stereotypes, assimilation, and the model minority myth .Hyeseung shares her journey of finding her voice and identity, highlighting the mental health challenges of navigating between cultures.