In this episode of And All the Things, I sit down with Phyllis Leavitt, a psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience and the author of America in Therapy. Phyllis brings a unique perspective to our collective mental health, examining America’s divides through the lens of family dynamics. Together, we explore how the same principles that foster healthy, compassionate relationships within families can also be applied on a national scale to address polarization and promote unity.

Our conversation delves into the critical role that mental health and emotional awareness play in healing societal rifts, especially in the wake of recent elections. Phyllis sheds light on how listening, compassion, and non-violence can bring about meaningful change, not just within individual families, but across communities. We also discuss practical ways each of us can contribute to this healing journey, moving from conflict toward genuine connection, collective responsibility, and hope for a more united future.

Episode Breakdown

• 00:00 — Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast

• 01:12 — Introducing Phyllis Leavitt

• 01:20 — Phyllis's Background and her Approach to Therapy

• 03:14 — The Healing Journey and Power of Compassion

• 06:43 — Importance of Connection and Building Community

• 10:45 — Applying Family Dynamics to the National Landscape

• 11:49 — Role of Mental Health in Political Contexts

• 17:09 — Healing through Active Listening and Compassion

• 23:45 — Recognizing and Addressing Dysfunctional Patterns

• 27:44 — Impact of Mental Health on Broader Society

• 30:14 — Understanding Cycles of Abuse in a Social Context

• 30:47 — Characteristics of a Healthy Family Structure

• 32:07 — Responsibility and Its Role in Personal and National Healing

• 35:28 — Societal Mental Health Crisis and Solutions

• 36:36 — Insights on Non-Violence and Martial Arts Principles

• 38:07 — Love, Boundaries, and Their Power in Healing

• 42:02 — Spirituality: From Individual Healing to Collective Well-being

• 44:10 — Embracing Interdependence and Global Responsibility

• 46:26 — Practical Steps Toward Healing and Unity

• 51:52 — Importance of Addressing Collective Trauma

• 57:08 — Final Thoughts and Resources

Join us for this thoughtful discussion as we uncover actionable steps for fostering a culture of understanding and empathy that extends beyond personal and family relationships to impact society as a whole.
Connect with Phyllis Leavitt

https://www.phyllisleavitt.com
https://www.facebook.com/phyllis.leavitt
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOdxqvDK9N421AZ5TTxqUgQ
https://www.linkedin.com/in/phyllis-leavitt-630179255/
https://www.instagram.com/phyllis_e_leavitt/
https://twitter.com/PhyllisLeavitt2
https://substack.com/@phyllisleavitt1