Best The Thoughful Counselor Team Podcasts (2025)

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EP302: Decolonization in counselor education and practice 36:52

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9d ago36:52

36:52

Two counselor educators, professional counselors, and researchers discuss what decolonization is and is not in counselor education. Drs. Smith-Yliniemi and Malott describe what motivates them to continue learning about ways to infuse decolonizing principles in their educational and clinical work. Both share practical examples and hopes for the futu…

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EP301: Urban Indigenous Collective: For Urban Natives by Urban Natives 1:23:24

16d ago1:23:24

1:23:24

In this episode, Dèsa meets with Sutton King and Ariel Richer, the co-founders of the Urban Indigenous Collective, to delve into the intersection of collective healing and natural medicine, exploring how culturally tailored health services can empower Indigenous communities. Sutton and Ariel share their insights on reclaiming space for urban Indige…

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EP300: The Reflective Lens: Sharpening Your Authentic Self 47:44

1M ago47:44

47:44

This unstructured conversation explores the intentional shift towards ourselves. In environments and systems that reward achievement, Drs. Tapia and Spears examine how ongoing dynamic self-reflection attends to ourselves while simultaneously modeling wellness to others. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this …

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EP299: Supporting the Needs of International Students and International Scholars in Counselor Education 55:04

2M ago55:04

55:04

In this episode we discuss the challenges that international students and international scholars face in the current political environment, with Drs. Ching-Chen Chen and Jungnam Kim. From challenging and unclear immigration and visa policies, to issues obtaining licensure, to the overall fear that uncertainty brings, counselors and counselor educat…

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EP298: Organizational Consultation in Professional Counseling 45:32

3M ago45:32

45:32

In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Kenneth Edwards to discuss how professional counselors can engage in organizational consulting. Kenneth and contributing host Theo Burnes discuss the multiple ways that counselors can use their skills to facilitate and empower organizational change. Topics addressed include advocacy efforts within …

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EP297: The Adoptee Consciousness Model: What Mental Health Counselors Need to Know 41:27

3M ago41:27

41:27

The co creators of the Adoptee Consciousness Model walk the listener through the process of adoptee awareness of systematic issues in adoption that impact their identity and mental health outcomes. They share what mental health counselors and practitioners need to know to support adoptee clients. For more on our guests, links from the conversation,…

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EP296: Voices of Resistance: Conversations with Dr. Autumn Asher BlackDeer 1:21:43

4M ago1:21:43

1:21:43

Desa speaks with scholar-activist Dr. Autumn Asher BlackDeer on her experiences within higher education as she moved into her decolonial research. They talk about their experiences finding a balance between academic work with the community heart work that refills them. The end by talking about how grief has continued to inform them now and into the…

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EP295: How AI Can Enhance Your Counseling Practice 39:12

5M ago39:12

39:12

In this conversation, Donna Sheperis discusses the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in counseling practice. Dr. Sheperis highlights how counselors are using AI and emphasizes the rapid adoption of AI compared to past technological shifts. She shares the opportunities and challenges AI presents for clinicians, educators, and counselors-…

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EP294: EFT for LGBTQ+ Relationships: Guidelines for Culturally Responsive Practice 44:27

5M ago44:27

44:27

This crucial conversation unpacks the findings of a Delphi study that gathered insights from EFT experts on how to make the model more culturally responsive to LGBTQ+ clients. Discover why traditional relationship literature often falls short and how this research offers practical guidelines for therapists working with same-sex and same-gender coup…

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EP293: Building a Private Practice Grounded in Wellness 44:27

6M ago44:27

44:27

In this episode Maddie discusses building a private practice with Leah Reed-Dailey, co-owner of the Mental Health Collaborative in Toledo, Ohio. Leah started her private practice with a focus on taking great care of clients and the clinicians who work there in a continuum of care environment. This episode will help listeners understand the process …

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EP292: Sexual Wellness and Counseling 34:54

6M ago34:54

34:54

In this episode. Dr. Hargons speaks about her new book, Good Sex, as well as her journey in the field of professional counseling and counseling sexology. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode, visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is c…

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EP291: Walking Alongside Marginalized Communities 52:10

7M ago52:10

52:10

Dr. Amy Ritterbusch, associate professor of social welfare at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, shares her experiences with global participatory action research in Colombian and Uganda and describes her personal journal of liberation as an international Colombian adopted person. She also offers recommendations for collective and individual …

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EP290: Bridging Cultures: Black Immigrants and Cultural Integration 1:12:30

7M ago1:12:30

1:12:30

In this episode, Dr. Thelamour discusses the intricate journey of acculturation among Black immigrant adolescents and emerging adults. She brings a multicultural lens to her research, focusing on the experiences of Black immigrants from African and Caribbean countries as they navigate their adjustment to Black American culture. Through engaging dis…

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EP289: Preparing Counselors to Work in Rural Areas 59:12

8M ago59:12

59:12

Drs. Elliott and Murray discuss their program for training counselors to work in rural areas. They share the challenges they have faced and talk about how educators and supervisors can approach readying students to work in rural communities. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept…

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EP288: Patterns that Remain (Part 1) 55:07

8M ago55:07

55:07

This episode explores Dr. Stacey Litam’s newly released book Patterns that Remain: A Guide to Healing for Asian Children of Immigrants. Drs. Tapia and Litam navigate the impact of this book and the chapters that were so thoughtfully written. Join us for the laughs and tears that came from reflecting on the Patterns that Remain. For more on our gues…

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EP287: Showing Up for Trans and Gender Expansive Clients 46:54

9M ago46:54

46:54

In this episode we discuss the evolving needs of the trans and gender expansive community and what counselors can do to show up for this marginalized population. Dr. Clark Ausloos joins the podcast to discuss the population's needs, community building, and how counselors can show up as social justice advocates inside and outside of their offices. L…

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EP286: The Importance of Mentorship in Counseling 50:31

9M ago50:31

50:31

In this episode, The Importance of Mentorship in Counseling, we explore how meaningful mentorship relationships shape personal and professional growth in the counseling field. Join us as we discuss the benefits of mentorship for both counselors-in-training and seasoned professionals, including skill development, navigating challenges, and fostering…

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EP285: Working with Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse 43:51

10M ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, Dr. Kyrstin shares her professional experience working with survivors of narcissistic abuse. We discuss clinical signs that a client is in a relationship with a narcissist, strategies for empowering victims and survivors, and the importance of clinician self-awareness and self-care. For more on our guests, links from the conversati…

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EP284: Disturbing Inequity 53:59

11M ago53:59

53:59

In this episode, Abiola shares how she prioritizes breaking down the system to pave the way for others. Abiola and Dèsa discuss how Disturbing Inequity continues to break dominant narratives through social media. Abiola chats about her experiences overcoming racism and hate while speaking about her personal experiences with mental health. For more …

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EP283: Stoic Strategies for Supervision: Empowering Counselors to Thrive 59:45

11M ago59:45

59:45

In this episode, Rachael Estes and Dr. Jessica Tyler dive into how ancient Stoic principles can be applied to modern counseling supervision, helping counselors build resilience in the face of challenges. They explore practical strategies for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and navigating stress, offering listeners actionable tools to strengthen …

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EP282: Fatmisia: Exploring our Anti-Fat Bias, Body Justice, and Mental Health 47:38

12M ago47:38

47:38

In this episode, we talk about Fatmisia, a term meaning hatred of fatness. Gianna discusses how anti-fatness, diet culture, and fatmisia impacts our work and our lives. She provides information about the influence of capitalism and racism on the prevalence of anti-fatness and shares how she uses a disability justice lens and Bowen/Narrative interve…

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EP281: Understanding Academic Gaslighting of BIPOC Counselor Educators 48:20

1y ago48:20

48:20

In this episode, Dr. Tiffanie Sutherlin discusses the pervasive issue of academic gaslighting, particularly as it affects BIPOC counselor educators. She explores the subtle and overt ways this phenomenon manifests in academic environments and its impact on professional identity and mental health. Listeners will gain insights into the unique challen…

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EP280: Mastering the Dynamics of Kink-Aware Counseling 1:08:30

1y ago1:08:30

1:08:30

Join Dr. Mickey White in a compelling conversation with Dr. Arien Muzacz, a researcher, educator, and clinician who specializes in working with kinky clients. In this episode, Dr. Muzacz shares her personal journey into the field and the ways in which counselors can better support and advocate for clients who practice consensual kink or asymmetry (…

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EP279: Building Community Through Abolition and Social Justice 55:19

1y ago55:19

55:19

Dr. Darius Green speaks with Dr. Dèsa Daniel about this work centering an abolition framework in his teaching, research, and clinical work. They discuss confidentiality, ethics, and the power of being in community with each other. Finally the end with talking about abolition as an action tied directly to social justice. For more on our guests, link…

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EP278: Hope & Healing: Growth After Partner Betrayal 54:14

1y ago54:14

54:14

In this episode, Drs. Jessica Tyler and Simona Niculaes explore the complex emotional journey of individuals recovering from partner betrayal, especially in the context of sexual addiction. Drawing from clinical experience and key findings of a qualitative study, this episode examines common emotional and psychological challenges faced by partner s…

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EP277: Reshaping Patterns Through Somatic Practice in Counseling 41:35

1y ago41:35

41:35

In this episode, Dr. Alisha Guthery talks about her work as a somatic practitioner. She describes somatic practice in counseling, how counselors can begin to include somatic approaches in their work, and how to grow as a somatic practitioner. We talk about client progress, other applications for somatic approaches, and how it can impact the persona…

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EP276: The Importance of Addressing Spirituality and Religion in Counseling 45:16

1+ y ago45:16

45:16

Tune in to this insightful episode as Dr. Jeff Cline explores the crucial role of integrating spirituality and religion in counseling. Offering actionable insights, Dr. Cline navigates the delicate balance between incorporating these facets into therapy while respecting the autonomy of the client. Gain practical wisdom on fostering a therapeutic en…

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EP275: Relational Cultural Theory: Moving Towards Connection 32:15

1+ y ago32:15

32:15

In this episode, Dr. Kashunda McGriff talks about Relational Cultural Theory. RCT is a theory rooted in feminist and social justice that recognizes how people grow in and through connection. Dr. McGriff shares her experience as a counselor and professor using RCT as a conceptual framework for helping others. For more on our guests, links from the c…

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EP274: Generations of Resilience: Counseling LGBTQ+ Older Adults 54:08

1+ y ago54:08

54:08

In this episode, Mickey speaks with Dr. Jordan B. Westcott about her work and research on counseling strategies and cultural considerations with older LGBTQ+ adults. We take a look at how ageist, heterosexist, and cissexist stereotypes create barriers for older LGBTQ+ adults accessing mental healthcare, and ways that providers can avoid and challen…

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EP273: Queering Disabilities: Understanding Disability, the Forgotten Margin 58:07

1+ y ago58:07

58:07

Dèsa speaks with Dr. Tameeka L. Hunter about their 2020 article on Queering Disabilities. They do a deep dive into how counselors can better support clients experiencing seen and unseen disabilities. Dr. Hunter highlights the importance of leaning into uncomfortable moments by increasing our education and awareness to improve our cultural curiosity…

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EP272: Youth Substance Recovery 54:30

1+ y ago54:30

54:30

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler talks with Dr. Andrew Finch, delving into the complexities of substance recovery for youth. They discuss the unique challenges young people face with substance use and highlight the shortcomings of support services during recovery. Dr. Finch sheds light on the concept of recovery high schools and advocacy efforts …

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EP271: How Holistic Admissions Can Help Us Identify the Next Generation of Counselors 59:17

1+ y ago59:17

59:17

Dominique S. Hammonds and Lucy L. Purgason describe holistic admissions in counselor education; a process that allows programs to determine if applicants have the capacity to be practitioners, not just successfully engage graduate study, which traditional admissions typically accomplishes. They walk us through the process of faculty establishing wh…

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EP270: Are All "Black Folks" with Dreads for the Cause? 1:00:25

1+ y ago1:00:25

1:00:25

In this podcast, we are going to explore intersectionality through a different lens. We are going to explore the, at times, taboo subject of intra-racism in African American culture and its possible impact on clients. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources…

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EP269: Social Justice Beyond the Counseling Office 48:47

1+ y ago48:47

48:47

In this episode, we examine the experiences of Dr. Christopher Townsend. Dr. Townsend takes us on a journey through advocacy and the courage to speak out against cultural injustice. Dr. Townsend has co authored Senate bills to repair laws that impact vulnerable clients. He shares his journey towards the state capitol and how he arrived at his own i…

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EP267: People of Color Psychedelic Collective (POCPC) 1:05:49

1+ y ago1:05:49

1:05:49

The POCPC brings psychedelic education to people of color. The organization creates spaces for people of color to learn about the harms of the war on drugs and the healing properties of psychedelics. Co-host Desa chats with Ifetayo Harvey about the formation of the organization, the growing use of psychedelics, and how communities can educate thems…

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EP266: From Passion to Purpose: A Conversation with Healing in the Margins 1:01:05

1+ y ago1:01:05

1:01:05

In this empowering episode, Jessica Tyler engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ashley Hampton, the Co-founder and Clinical Director of Hampton House Counseling, a groundbreaking QPOC group private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. Ashley is also the Executive Director of Healing in the Margins. This non-profit organization drives systemic trans…

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EP265: Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers 55:22

1+ y ago55:22

55:22

In this episode, Dr. Megan Speciale interviews Jamila Dawson, LMFT and Theodore Burnes, PhD on sex worker-affirming mental healthcare, the topic of their new book, “Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers.” The authors discuss common issues faced by individuals involved in the sex industry, the impact of stigma and whorephobia on the mental and emo…

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EP264: Transitioning from Counselor to CES Doctoral Student 52:41

2y ago52:41

52:41

There are many counselors who are considering going back to school to get their PhD but are unsure what this process looks like. In this episode, Helen Jennings-Hood discusses her personal journey and insights that can help others if they are considering starting a doctorate program in Counselor Education and Supervision. For more on our guests, li…

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EP263: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome 53:47

2y ago53:47

53:47

In this episode, Dr. Mickey White talks with Dr. Stacey Williams to discuss her research and experiences with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We discuss what PCOS is and how PCOS impacts mental health, stigma, and resiliency across gender. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept…

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EP262: Worthiness, Values, and Self Love 1:18:20

2y ago1:18:20

1:18:20

Dr. Andy Choi shares his journey from his graduate education to his current role as a licensed psychologist. Andy shares how scholars, mentors, friends, and family influence his work today. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-po…

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EP261: Unveiling Maternal Mental Health Truths 52:22

2y ago52:22

52:22

In this episode, join Dr. Jessica Tyler in an enlightening conversation on maternal mental health with Kellie Wicklund, psychotherapist and Clinical Director of the Maternal Wellness Center. Kellie delves into her 20-year career, spotlighting her dedication to perinatal mental health and helping clients navigate the complexities of parenthood. Unpa…

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EP260: Understanding Middle Adulthood Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens 50:01

2y ago50:01

50:01

In our last episode of the series "Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens," Dr. J. Kelly Coker shares her work exploring middle adulthood development. She dives into topics that are not often discussed in public or the literature, including psychological, emotional, and physical changes that adults experience as they age. Dr. Coker tackles em…

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EP259: Lived Experiences of African American Women in Counseling Leadership 39:41

2y ago39:41

39:41

In this episode, Dr. Asha Dickerson will discuss her journey as an African American women who has held several leadership roles in counseling. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in pa…

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EP258: Lift As You Rise: Getting Involved in Counseling Leadership and Advocacy 47:07

2y ago47:07

47:07

Drs. Derek X Seward and Megan Speciale sit down for a compelling interview with Dr. Carlos Hipolito-Delgado as he shares his personal journey into counseling leadership and professional advocacy. Throughout this episode, Carlos offers invaluable insights on navigating counseling organizational structures, developing equity-focused approaches to lea…

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EP257: The Neurodivergent Movement: A Multicultural Perspective 41:51

2y ago41:51

41:51

In this episode, Natasha Villalobos discusses her experience working with clients who identify with neurodivergent. She provides a multicultural lens on how to work with this population in an affirming, nonpathological way. Natasha describes how the movement towards more affirmative care for this population can increase connection while remaining p…

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EP256: Queer Womxn of Color: Healing and Liberation 1:03:55

2y ago1:03:55

1:03:55

In this episode, Drs. Ana Guadalupe Reyes (they/elle) and Mónica Rodríguez Delgado (she/ella) share their experiences working with and on behalf of queer womxn of color in counseling. They discuss the importance of attending to the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality with queer womxn of color, as well as navigating sharing such nuanced liv…

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EP255: Racial Battle Fatigue 1:18:54

2y ago1:18:54

1:18:54

In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons meets with Dr. Dèsa Karye Daniel to discuss the tenants of Racial Battle Fatigue. Throughout their conversation, they reflect on the experiences of Black Teachers and how sharing these experiences can change the narrative for future Black educators. Dr. Lyons gives examples of how mental health practitioners can supp…

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EP254: The Intersection of Diagnosis and Social Justice 58:11

2y ago58:11

58:11

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler sits with Christine Banks-Van Allen to discuss the intersection between mental health diagnosis and social justice. We explore the real-life impact of diagnoses on individuals from marginalized communities, share stories highlighting the importance of cultural understanding, and uncover ways to advocate for change…

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EP253: Understanding Emerging and Late Adulthood Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens 52:09

2y ago52:09

52:09

In the fourth episode in our series on cultural and contextual approaches to lifespan development, Dr. Savitri Dixon-Saxon shares her expertise on the development of adults. She discusses emerging adulthood and late adulthood, challenging the way we think about aging. Dr. Dixon-Saxon talks about the biases that counselors may have about older adult…

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EP252: Hip Hop, Mental Health and Black Males 40:11

2+ y ago40:11

40:11

In this episode, Dr. James Norris discusses how he utilizes hip hop music in his counseling practice to encourage authentic communication with clients. He gives practical suggestions on how to incorporate hip hop with clients who are drawn to this genre of music. For more on James, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visi…