Heal Your Roots Podcast

Join us for the season finale of Season 3 on Heal Your Roots Podcast, where Kira Yakubov Ploshansky, LMFT, and Dr. Katie Manganello, host Allen-Michael Lewis, LMFT - one of the newest team members at Heal Your Roots Wellness. Dive deep into the cultural narratives around food, body image, and relationships. Allen-Michael discusses the double standards and societal pressures faced by individuals regarding diet and body image. With a blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, he highlights the impact of parental and cultural expectations on eating behaviors and mental health.Episode Highlights:Cultural Perspectives on Food and Relationships (0:00): Allen-Michael explores cultural double standards in food and body image, sharing personal and professional insights into addressing these issues in therapy sessions.OCD, Eating Disorders, and Cultural Differences (8:01): Dr. Katie Manganello discusses the manifestation of OCD in food habits and the pressures leading to eating disorders in children due to parental influence.Societal Double Standards (13:24): Examination of how men and women are differently judged based on their eating habits and body image, with a focus on societal and familial expectations.Body Positivity and Internalized Shame (19:48): Discussion on the importance of mindfulness and body acceptance, particularly among younger generations influenced by social media.Impact of Family and Societal Comments on Body Image (25:41): Insights into how negative comments from family and society can shape one's self-esteem and body image, with a discussion on the myths around body health and size.Eating Disorders and Sensory Processing Conditions (33:19): Addressing disordered eating and sensory processing issues such as ARFID and pica, and the associated stigma and shame.Psychedelics in Therapy (39:26): Exploring the potential of psychedelics in disrupting harmful mental narratives and creating pathways for healing, compared to traditional therapy methods.This episode is a thoughtful exploration of how cultural narratives and personal experiences shape our relationships with food, body image, and mental health. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation!Tune in now and subscribe to Heal Your Roots Podcast for more insightful episodes on relationships, mental health, and personal growth.Episode Resources:Follow Allen-Michael Lewis on Instagram @MFTFoodieLearn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness at healyourrootswellness.comDisclaimer: The content is intended for informational and educational purposes onlySupport the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

Dive deep into the world of prenatal fitness and nutrition with special guest Amanda Matrisciano, a certified personal trainer with expertise in pre and postnatal training.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction to personal training, pregnancy, and nutrition with Amanda Matrisciano2:09 - Amanda's journey into personal training and certification in pre and postnatal fitness7:43 - Safe exercise during pregnancy: Debunking myths and providing personalized advice12:53 - Postpartum recovery: Essential fitness tips and mental coaching17:36 - Postpartum recovery and pelvic floor exercises for natural birth and C-section22:42 - Mental and physical benefits of exercise with a personal trainer24:53 - The importance of accountability and community in fitness30:15 - Fitness, self-care, and positive body image after pregnancy35:47 - Healthy eating habits and self-care for mothers41:23 - Balancing nutrition and cravings during pregnancy46:36 - fitness journey and her baking businessExplore the mental and physical benefits of staying active during pregnancy, debunk common exercise myths, and gain valuable tips for postpartum recovery. Amanda shares personal experiences and expert advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and after childbirth.Don't miss Amanda's inspiring story and practical tips for expecting and new mothers. Enjoy the episode? Please like, comment, and subscribe for more content on mental health, wellness, and personal growth.#PrenatalFitness #PostpartumRecovery #HealthyPregnancy #ExerciseDuringPregnancy #NutritionForMoms #PersonalTraining #WellnessJourney #HealYourRootsPodcastCheck out the full podcast page here. Please Note: This episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new fitness or nutrition program.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

Navigating Maternal Mental Health: Insights on Postpartum Anxiety and DepressionWelcome to the latest episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the complex world of maternal mental health, exploring crucial topics like postpartum anxiety and depression. Our discussion covers a range of vital issues, from the impact of social media on raising awareness to distinguishing between baby blues and more severe mood disorders.Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction: Understanding Maternal Mental Health and Social Media's Role[03:31] - Differentiating Postpartum Anxiety and Depression from Baby Blues[07:51] - Recognizing Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment for Postpartum Mood Disorders[16:10] - Perinatal Mood Disorders in Women of Color: Risk Factors and Relationship Impact[24:34] - Postpartum Depression and Attachment: Bonding with Your Baby[29:24] - Navigating Postpartum Depression and Generational Differences[35:30] - Effective Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression[40:02] - Coping Strategies for New Mothers: Embracing Self-CompassionKey Takeaways:Maternal Mental Health Awareness: Discover how social media can promote honest discussions about motherhood and mental health.Postpartum Challenges: Learn the differences between postpartum anxiety, depression, and baby blues.Identifying Symptoms: Understand the key symptoms of postpartum mood disorders and when to seek professional help.Cultural Competency: Address the unique challenges faced by women of color and the importance of culturally competent care.Attachment and Bonding: Explore strategies to strengthen the bond with your baby, even when facing postpartum depression.Generational Insights: Navigate the impact of unsolicited advice and generational differences in parenting.Treatment and Support: Review effective treatment options, including therapy, support groups, and medication.Coping Mechanisms: Embrace coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety as a new mother.Join us for an enlightening conversation that aims to provide support, raise awareness, and empower mothers on their journey through postpartum mental health. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful episodes!Learn more on our website at https://bit.ly/HYRP-Strategies-for-mothersDisclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. #MaternalMentalHealth #PostpartumDepression #PostpartumAnxiety #Motherhood #MentalHealthAwareness #HealYourRootsPodcast #CopingStrategies #Parenting #MentalHealthSupport #NewMomsSupport the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this enlightening episode, Mari Kharroubi, a bilingual pediatric speech-language pathologist and dedicated pregnancy coach, shares her deeply personal journey from overcoming learning disabilities to pioneering holistic approaches in maternal health. Listen as she explains the transformative impact of functional medicine on pregnancy, nutrition, and emotional well-being.Key Takeaways:Overcoming Speech and Language Challenges: Learn how Mari's early struggles with learning disabilities inspired her to become an advocate and speech-language pathologist.Functional Medicine's Power: Discover Mari's journey into functional medicine after becoming disillusioned with traditional treatments.Nutrition and Cellular Health for Pregnancy: Understand the importance of nutrition and cellular health for a healthy pregnancy, especially at advanced maternal ages.Emotional Healing in Pregnancy Preparation: Recognize the crucial role emotional healing plays in preparing for pregnancy.Nutrient-Dense Foods for Maternal Health: Get practical advice on the best foods and supplements to support maternal and fetal health.Episode Highlights:[00:00] Dealing with Speech and Language Disorders in Children[05:57] Shifting to Functional Medicine[14:36] Achieving a Healthy Pregnancy at 39[22:11] Preparing for Pregnancy with Emotional Healing[27:14] Importance of Hydration and Minerals[34:37] Nutrient-Dense Foods and Supplements for Pregnancy[41:27] Personalized Pregnancy CoachingMari also reflects on her own health struggles, including fibromyalgia and Bell’s Palsy, and how functional medicine improved her health and her ability to serve her clients.Whether you're a healthcare professional, an expecting mother, or simply curious about holistic health, this episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies.Learn more on our website at https://bit.ly/HYRP-Nourishing-Mind-and-Body Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

Join us on this enlightening episode of our podcast as Dr. Alyssa Hertz dives into the complexities of treating individuals with both Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and eating disorders. With her dual expertise, Dr. Hertz highlights the synergy between the treatment methodologies for these often co-existing conditions and provides clarity on the psychological underpinnings that they share. Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective therapeutic practices, the importance of integrated care, and the role of psychoeducation in treatment. This episode is packed with practical advice for clinicians, uplifting success stories, and essential resources for anyone navigating the landscape of OCD and eating disorders. Tune in to empower your understanding and treatment approaches for these challenging disorders.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this compelling episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast, we warmly welcome back Dr. Katie Manganello as we delve into the intricate experiences of postpartum and perinatal OCD. With a compassionate approach, this discussion unfolds the layers of what it means to battle OCD while stepping into the world of motherhood. Dr. Katie provides expert insights, coupled with practical advice, aiming to enlighten, support, and empower those on this challenging journey. This episode is not only a source of invaluable information but also a testament to the strength and resilience inherent in parenthood. Whether you're directly impacted by these issues or stand in support of those who are, this episode is an essential listen for understanding the complexities of maternal mental health.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

Welcome to a profound episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast, Season 3, Episode 9, where we explore the intersections of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), religious trauma, and pathways to healing. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Katie Manganello, a clinical psychologist specializing in OCD, and Caitlin Harrison, a marriage and family therapist with expertise in trauma, to unravel these complex topics.This episode dives deep into:The essence of OCD and how it manifests through doubts and compulsions.Understanding religious trauma: its sources, impacts, and the journey towards healing.The concept of scrupulosity: navigating fears around moral and religious purity.Approaches to treating religious trauma and OCD, including cognitive therapy, ERP (Exposure Response Prevention), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).Dr. Manganello and Caitlin Harrison provide insightful discussions on how religious beliefs and obligations can intertwine with OCD, leading to a challenging mental health landscape. They offer hope and actionable advice for those struggling with these issues, emphasizing the importance of understanding, acceptance, and professional guidance.Whether you're grappling with these issues personally, know someone who is, or are simply interested in the subject, this episode offers valuable perspectives, expert advice, and a message of hope.Join us on this enlightening journey to better understand the complexities of mental health, faith, and the road to recovery.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

Tune into an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jessica Robb Mazzant about ADHD's nuances in assessment and treatment. With extensive experience and a passion ignited by her early career, Dr. Mazzant brings a wealth of knowledge to this episode. In This Episode: • The journey to specializing in ADHD and the role of mentorship. • The impact of Bill Pelham's work on today's mental health practices. • A detailed look at ADHD assessment and treatment methodologies. • The effects of ADHD on school performance, social interactions, and family life. • Strategies for improving social skills in children with ADHD. • The power of group therapy and positive reinforcement in ADHD treatment. • Parenting advice for raising children with ADHD, emphasizing the importance of understanding and positive engagement. Hosted by Kira Yakubov Ploshansky, this episode is an invaluable resource for parents, educators, and mental health professionals seeking to enhance their understanding and approach to ADHD. Resources & Support: Visit the Center for Children and Families at FIU and South Florida Integrative Medicine for more information and assistance. Subscribe to Heal Your Roots Wellness Podcast on BuzzSprout for insightful discussions on mental health and wellness. Share this episode to spread awareness and support for those navigating ADHD. Disclaimer: The content is intended for informational and educational purposes only Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this enlightening episode, Alex Mayrin delves into the profound impact of Ayahuasca healing on PTSD, trauma, and childhood wounds, illustrating the path from personal transformation to aiding others. He recounts his own growth through Ayahuasca ceremonies and his evolution into a yoga teacher and spiritual guide. The episode also covers the significance of integrating these experiences for sustained healing and the benefits of weekend retreats for deep inner work. Furthermore, Alex offers insights on incorporating therapy and self-care post-ceremony and shares gentle parenting techniques for a more compassionate approach to life's challenges. Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this insightful episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast, Kira Yakubov Ploshansky is joined by Gabrielle Larin, LMFT, to delve into the complex world of people-pleasing tendencies, their origins in childhood upbringing, and the cultural pressures that shape them. Gabrielle shares her expertise in working with clients who struggle with self-esteem issues and the compulsive need to prioritize others' needs, often at the expense of their own. Through a compassionate lens, they explore how these behaviors are rooted in early family dynamics, societal expectations placed on women, and the internalization of responsibility for others' emotions.The conversation navigates the journey of personal growth, highlighting the importance of celebrating small successes, setting healthy boundaries, and practicing self-care. Kira and Gabrielle challenge listeners to distinguish between being "nice" and being genuinely kind, encouraging authenticity and vulnerability in relationships. They provide practical advice on overcoming the discomfort associated with setting boundaries and communicating needs, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach to selflessness and self-preservation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to break free from the cycle of people-pleasing and embrace a more authentic, self-respecting way of living.Check out the podcast page at https://bit.ly/hyrp-People-Pleasing-OriginsSupport the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

This episode delves into the transformative power of mind-body approaches in therapy, emphasizing the significant role of meditation, mindfulness, and body awareness in healing and emotional management.Starting with a focus on how couples can navigate grief together, returning guest, Lindsay Bauer, LMFT shares her expertise in integrating breath work, meditation, and mindfulness into therapy sessions. She explains the differences between meditation and mindfulness, particularly highlighting the benefits of practices like the "So Hum" meditation, body scans, and yoga nidra in releasing physical tension related to stress and emotions.As the conversation progresses, Lindsay and host Kira Yakubov Ploshansky explore the impact of mindfulness and self-awareness in achieving inner peace and managing emotions. They touch on grounding techniques for improving decision-making and discuss the importance of embodied experiences in therapy.A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to understanding grief and loss within couples therapy. Lindsay highlights the complexities of supporting a partner through grief, emphasizing the need for communication, validation, and acknowledging different healing styles.🎧🎙️Tune in to understand the therapeutic potential of mindfulness practices and how they can be used to promote better self-awareness and emotion regulation. 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️Check out the episode on our website at https://bit.ly/hyrp-holistic-healingCheck out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this episode we explore the fascinating world of family dynamics and therapy with the insightful Allen Michael Lewis, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. 🙌Navigate through the power of genograms to understand family dynamics, the importance of accountability in relationships, and the challenges of maintaining a healthy relationship with family members while preserving oneself.🍽️Discover cultural insights on food exploring its relationship with love, respect and identity. Allen reflects on internalized messages about food and the body, setting the stage for a deeper discussion on intergenerational trauma and food choices.🤝Explore the roles, hierarchies, and patterns within family systems, gain insights into transformative therapy practices, and join the conversation on the significance of cultural ties to food and body image.👉Whether you're interested in therapy, relationships, or cultural explorations, this episode has something for everyone.#HealYourRootsPodcast #MentalHealth #familydynamicsPodcast Episode: https://bit.ly/hyrp-unveiling-patterns Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

🌟In this episode, delve into the world of therapy, personality tests, and couples work with Caitlin Harrison, a Marriage and Family Therapist. Explore the impact of religious trauma on mental health, the intricacies of EMDR therapy, and the application of therapy models like Internal Family Systems and the Gottman method. Gain insights into navigating childhood wounds, anxiety, and trauma.❤️‍🩹Join us for candid conversations about personal growth, healing, and the therapeutic journey. Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this enlightening episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast, we dive deep into the world of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with the esteemed Dr. Katie Manganello, a Licensed Psychologist renowned for her expertise in OCD treatment. With a blend of personal insights and professional acumen, Dr. Manganello and our host, Kira Yakubov Ploshansky, unravel the complexities of OCD, offering a beacon of understanding and hope for those grappling with this often misunderstood condition.Key Highlights of the Episode:Journey to Specialization in OCD Treatment: Dr. Manganello shares her evolution as a psychologist, shaped by personal experiences and a heartfelt commitment to aid others. She reflects on her motivations in pursuing a doctoral degree, underlining the transformative power of advanced studies in psychology.Demystifying OCD: The discussion navigates through the intricacies of OCD, emphasizing the critical need to distinguish it from anxiety disorders for efficacious treatment. Dr. Manganello delineates the nuances of OCD symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, enhancing understanding for both therapists and those living with OCD.Unpacking Misconceptions and Subtypes of OCD: The episode illuminates various OCD manifestations, including fears related to contamination, harm, and social perception. A poignant segment discusses the distressing nature of intrusive thoughts related to pedophilia, distinguishing between ego-dystonic and ego-syntonic thoughts.Innovative Treatment Approaches: Focusing on Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Dr. Manganello and Kira explore this cutting-edge treatment, highlighting its efficacy in confronting and managing OCD symptoms. The conversation underscores the importance of therapist-client collaboration and the gradual escalation of exposure therapy.Navigating OCD in Relationships: An insightful discussion on how OCD can permeate relationships, with practical strategies for involving partners and family members in the therapeutic journey. The episode stresses the value of empathy and understanding in responding to compulsive behaviors within relationships.Challenges in OCD Diagnosis and Treatment: Dr. Manganello addresses the hurdles in accurately diagnosing and treating OCD, advocating for increased awareness and education among clinicians. The role of the International OCD Foundation as a vital resource is spotlighted, offering support and guidance for both individuals with OCD and therapists.The episode wraps up with the exciting announcement of Dr. Katie Manganello joining Heal Your Roots Wellness, where she will be available for sessions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of OCD and its impacts, or for those on their own journey of mental health exploration and healing.Tune in to this episode: For an enlightening exploration of OCD, its treatment, and the personal journeys of those dedicated to making a difference in the field of mental health. This episode promises to be a valuable resource for both mental health professionals and those affected by OCD.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

🌟 The premiere episode of Season 3 of the "Heal Your Roots Podcast" 🎧 delves deep into the complex and often intertwined worlds of trauma, substance use disorder, and the transformative journey of recovery. Esteemed guest Laura Schneider, LSW brings a wealth of experience and personal insights that promise to enlighten and inspire. 💡In this riveting episode, Laura, Clinical Supervisor at Valley Spring Recovery Center in New Jersey, shares her unique perspective, shaped by her background in nursing and social work, on the cyclical nature of trauma and substance use. She opens up about her own battles with drug addiction, offering an honest and relatable narrative that highlights the importance of understanding and empathy in the healing process. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of therapy to change lives. 💪🏼💖 The heart of addiction treatment is explored, examining the relationship between trauma and addiction. Laura illuminates how often trauma precedes addiction, leading to a "pressure cooker" situation where individuals may turn to substances as a coping mechanism. This discussion is particularly pertinent as it navigates the challenges of the holiday season 🎄, a time that can trigger memories and emotions for those with trauma. The complexities of treating trauma and addiction are discussed, underscoring the significance of tailoring therapeutic approaches to individual needs. Innovative methods like inner child work and art therapy 🎨 are explored, offering paths to healing and self-care beyond traditional therapeutic narratives. The episode takes a hopeful turn as it discusses the importance of joy and creativity in the recovery process. Laura and host Kira Yakubov emphasize how integrating joy and playfulness into therapy can facilitate healing on both internal and somatic levels. 😊🌈 Finally, the effectiveness of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for trauma is delved into, discussing its process and how it helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories. The episode concludes with practical advice for managing triggers and cravings during the holiday season, including setting boundaries and having a backup plan for challenging social situations. 🛡️🧘 This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by the issues of trauma and addiction, or for those seeking a deeper understanding of these complex conditions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that sheds light on the path to healing and recovery. 🌟 If you want to get in touch with Laura, she is available at LSchneider@valleyspringrc.com or learn more about Valley Spring Recovery Center here.  Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this insightful and empowering episode of Heal Your Roots Podcast, we welcome back the esteemed mental health expert, Joslyn Justi. In our heartfelt discussion, we delve into the often misunderstood realms of anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Joslyn sheds light on the normalcy of experiencing anxiety, helping listeners differentiate it from anxiety disorders, and clarifying the common misconceptions between anxiety attacks and panic attacks.We discuss the discomfort tolerance window, explaining how an overactive amygdala and cortex can fuel anxiety. Joslyn shares useful techniques for challenging these anxious thoughts and explains the role of exposure prevention therapy in treating OCD. Listen in to hear about a client’s journey through OCD diagnosis and treatment, including the importance of identifying OCD behaviors, building resiliency, and avoiding blaming language.We explore the differences between OCD, Pure-O OCD, and generalized anxiety, emphasizing that OCD is rarer than many people believe. Gain insight into calming techniques for panic attacks and methods to send messages of safety to your body, and learn about the importance of self-care and stress management in maintaining mental health.Joslyn tackles the topic of perfectionism, calling it an illusion in mental health and detailing its common occurrence in OCD patients. We discuss accepting limitations and the process of releasing coping mechanisms. We also touch on the benefits of journaling for couples and the powerful role humor can play in therapy sessions.Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide to managing and understanding anxiety disorders, filled with practical tips, compassionate advice, and an empathetic approach to healing. Learn how to navigate your mental health journey with resilience and humor, and embrace a more informed, accepting mindset.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this insightful episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast, we have the privilege of hosting Gabrielle Larin, LMFT, a dynamic new addition to the Heal Your Roots Wellness team. Gabrielle shares her remarkable journey to becoming a therapist, beginning from her own experiences with therapy as a teenager.We dive deep into the nuances of celebrating small successes, a philosophy that Gabrielle carries through her practice. As she takes us through her expansive career, she highlights her expertise in various therapy types, with a particular focus on the benefits and challenges of family-based and mobile therapy.A key theme of our conversation is adaptability - how it plays a crucial role in managing a family's mental health and why it's essential to stay nimble in the face of crisis. Gabrielle emphasizes the importance of taking small, consistent steps toward progress, and how celebrating small wins can lead to lasting change.We touch on the delicate balance between positive and negative aspects in therapy, and how being prepared for the worst-case scenario can help us stay resilient. Gabrielle also brings her unique perspective on the role of cultural identity in therapy, sharing her personal experiences of working with clients from Hispanic and Eastern European backgrounds, and those who struggle with cultural adjustment.With a special focus on her work with the LGBTQIA+ community, Gabrielle shares her commitment to making therapy a safe, comfortable space for all. She stresses that being open to different cultures not only helps clients feel more comfortable, but also enriches the therapy experience as a whole.Gabrielle candidly discusses the importance of therapists 'walking the talk' and practicing what they preach. We explore the intricacies of working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and various mental health diagnoses, and how being intentional and asking the right questions can enhance the therapeutic process.Our discussion wraps up with a contemplation of the pros and cons of living within the same culture and the significance of understanding the 'why' behind our mental health struggles. Gabrielle leaves us with the valuable takeaway that awareness is the biggest first step, and trusting the process is a cornerstone of therapeutic progress.Join us for this enlightening episode as we delve into the heart of therapy with Gabrielle Larin, and explore how small victories, cultural understanding, and a commitment to authenticity can transform mental health journeys.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

Explore the intricate world of Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) with Courtney Burkhardt, Marriage and Family Therapist, on this enlightening episode of the Heal Your Roots Podcast. Unravel the depths of this unconventional relationship framework, and dive into candid discussions about the complexities of sex therapy, communication, and trust.Discover the story behind Courtney's journey into the realm of sex therapy, inspired by her early interest and subsequent training experiences. Learn how she examines her own thoughts and feelings through sexual attitude assessments, and understand the profound influence of these insights in her therapeutic interactions.The episode delves into the core aspects of CNM, illuminating its underpinnings, and presenting a holistic view of the community. Courtney shares her extensive research on the topic from her graduate school days, providing an analytical lens to this contemporary relationship paradigm. She elucidates on the practice of emotionally-focused couples therapy in non-monogamous relationships, and explains the hierarchical and egalitarian forms of polyamory.The conversation also addresses the realities of transitioning from monogamous to non-monogamous relationships, the nuances of polyamory and swinging, and the distinctive contrasts between open and monogamous relationships. It further examines the intersection of chronic illness, trauma history, and mismatched sex drives with non-monogamous partnerships, underscoring the vital role of trust and clear communication.Courtney also speaks candidly about the challenges couples may face in non-monogamous relationships, such as setting boundaries, crafting living contracts, and overcoming the stigma and scarcity mindset. The difference between cheating and non-monogamy is also discussed, offering listeners a fresh perspective on this often misunderstood topic.Towards the end, Courtney shares valuable recommendations, including the book "Ethical Slut", and introduces the Agape app, a tool designed to aid couples in enhancing communication. As the episode wraps up, listeners learn that Courtney is currently accepting new clients for sex therapy, providing an opportunity to benefit from her unique expertise.In this episode, enhance your understanding of consensual non-monogamy, gain a fresh perspective on relationship dynamics, and discover the healing power of open conversations and clear communication in fostering healthy, fulfilling relationships. Whether you're a therapist, a student, or just curious about the realm of non-monogamous relationships, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and knowledge.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this episode of the Heal Your Roots podcast, host Kira Yakubov, LMFT sits down with Dr. Michele Finneran to discuss the complex issue of domestic abuse. Dr. Finneran delves into the psychology behind this pervasive problem, discussing the different types of domestic abuse and the common theme of powerlessness that victims often feel. She also explores the connection between Stockholm Syndrome and domestic violence, and offers insights into the importance of nurturing mother-daughter relationships as a key factor in healing from trauma.Dr. Finneran shares her expertise on how to break the cycle of trauma bonding, and explains the three-step approach to therapy for domestic violence survivors. She offers advice on setting boundaries for self-care and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and emotional support. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand domestic abuse and its effects, and offers valuable insights and resources for those looking to heal and move forward.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness

In this insightful episode of Heal Your Roots Podcast, host Kira Yakubov is joined by Dr. Karen Wilson -  a Clinical Neuropsychologist, Director of West LA Neuropsychology, PC, the founder of ChildNEXUS.com. They delve into the complexities of children's mental health, discussing common learning disabilities, processing disorders, and the intricacies of diagnosing ADHD, Autism, and Learning Disorders in children. Dr. Karen explains the importance of neuropsychological evaluations, early detection of language-based issues, and the differences in how boys and girls present learning disabilities and Autism symptoms.Kira and Dr. Karen also explore the challenges parents and teachers face in identifying and addressing mental health issues in children, discussing the crucial role of gathering information from multiple sources and creating a neurocognitive profile for each child. They emphasize the importance of empowering the child and the whole family through understanding and intervention.The conversation also covers the overlap between Autism and ADHD and recommendations for school interventions and modifications. Dr. Karen sheds light on the impact of the frontal lobe on fine motor skills, the transition to independent living, and the importance of self-advocacy and self-care during the emerging adulthood period - particularly when going off to college. Finally, they discuss Dr. Karen's company, ChildNexus, and how it provides parents with reliable information and resources to navigate the world of children's mental health.Support the Show.Check out the rest of the Heal Your Roots Podcast episodes at our website.Learn more about Heal Your Roots Wellness