The Holistic Counselor

Odcinki

• Ep. 115 - From Trauma to Prison to Purpose with Ranae Van Roekel | Founder of Connecting to Cope 01.07.2026 1godz 3min

  What is the connection between trauma and incarceration? Can people truly change after prison? And how do you begin healing from trauma, shame, and past mistakes? In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, sits down with Ranae Van Roekel, founder of Connecting to Cope, to explore the intersection of childhood trauma, emotional regulation, mental health, and the criminal justice system. After serving 36 months in federal prison, Ranae shares her personal journey—from unresolved childhood sexual trauma and dissociation to accountability, therapy, and ultimately transforming her life into purpose-driven work helping others heal. This trauma-informed conversation addresses what many people are actively searching for but rarely understand: The link between trauma and incarceration How unresolved trauma impacts behavior and coping patterns The psychological and emotional realities of life inside prison Rebuilding identity after shame, trauma, and poor choices Emotional regulation and coping skills for healing The role of therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) The importance of accountability, support, and connection in long-term transformation A trauma-informed perspective on justice and rehabilitation This episode does not excuse harmful behavior. It helps listeners understand the "why" behind behavior so meaningful change can occur. At its core, this conversation reinforces a powerful truth: You are not the sum of your worst moments—and you are not beyond healing. Topics Covered Trauma and the criminal justice system Healing after incarceration Emotional regulation and coping skills Childhood trauma and dissociation Rebuilding life after prison Shame, identity, and personal growth Trauma-informed care Faith, accountability, and second chances Memorable Quotes Diana S. Rice, LMHC: "We are not just the sum of our worst moments. And we are not beyond healing." Ranae Van Roekel: "If you're not doing the work and going through it, you're not going to get better." Resources Mentioned Connecting to Cope – Ranae Van Roekel https://connectingtocope.com Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Overview https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) International Association https://www.emdria.org Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Dr. Richard Schwartz https://ifs-institute.com Pet Partners (Animal-Assisted Therapy Information) https://www.petpartners.org Who This Episode Is For This episode is for individuals who are: Healing from trauma Navigating shame, regret, or identity struggles Supporting a loved one impacted by incarceration Mental health professionals and helping professionals Seeking a trauma-informed and faith-integrated approach to healing Support the Podcast Each episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast takes approximately 3 to 5 hours to research, record, produce, and share. If this podcast has encouraged you, helped you grow, or provided value, you can support the work and help keep these conversations going by checking out the merch store: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Your support helps expand these conversations and continue breaking stigma around mental health, trauma, and faith. Or share and leave a review!! Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health, medical, or legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, or any guests. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed professional, call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.
• Ep. 114 - OCD, Intrusive Thoughts, and Religious Anxiety: How Exposure Therapy (ERP) Helps Break the Fear Cycle w/ Meghan Cromie 24.06.2026 1godz 2min

  In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana sits down with Meghan Cromie, LMHC, anxiety specialist and founder of Still Minds Psychology, to explore one of the most misunderstood mental health topics today: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Together, they unpack what intrusive thoughts really are, why they feel so real, and how OCD can quietly take over someone's life—often without them even realizing it. This conversation goes beyond surface-level explanations and dives into: why people get "stuck" in their thoughts how anxiety and OCD can look similar—but are not the same what's actually happening in the brain when fear takes over and how healing is possible through evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)  What You'll Learn in This Episode What OCD really is (and what it is not) The difference between intrusive thoughts, rumination, and obsession Why having a disturbing thought does NOT mean you agree with it How OCD is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed as general anxiety What compulsions really are (including mental compulsions like overthinking and reassurance seeking) Why avoidance and "trying to fix the thought" actually make OCD worse How Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) works to retrain the brain Why anxiety feels dangerous—but isn't  Religious OCD (Scrupulosity) One of the most powerful parts of this conversation is the discussion on scrupulosity (religious OCD)—something many people experience but don't have language for. Meghan explains: What scrupulosity is and how it shows up The difference between healthy faith vs fear-driven religion Why OCD often targets what you value most (including your faith) How compulsive prayer, perfectionism, and fear of "doing something wrong" can actually be symptoms of OCD How to recognize when your spiritual life is being driven by anxiety instead of peace  How ERP Therapy Helps OCD Meghan breaks down Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) in simple, practical terms: Facing fear in small, manageable steps Learning to sit with anxiety without trying to "fix" it Understanding that compulsions—not thoughts—keep OCD alive How new learning happens when the brain realizes: "I can feel this and still be okay"  Key Insight from This Episode OCD is not about the thought. It's about the meaning we attach to the thought—and the behaviors we use to try to escape it.  Resources Mentioned International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) – Find a trained OCD specialist ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) therapy  About the Guest Meghan Cromie, MA, LMHC is a licensed therapist, anxiety specialist, and founder of Still Minds Psychology in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She specializes in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, phobias, and trauma using evidence-based approaches, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). She works with teens and adults both in person and virtually across multiple states, helping clients move beyond cycles of fear and intrusive thoughts toward lasting recovery.  Website: https://www.stillmindspsychology.com/  Instagram: @stillmindspsychology  Support the Podcast If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with someone who may need it. You can also support The Holistic Counselor Podcast by leaving a review or checking out our merch store here --> https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/  Together, we can continue breaking the stigma around mental health.  Disclaimer This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are struggling, please seek support from a licensed professional in your area.
• Ep. 113 - Why You Still Feel Stuck After Therapy: Neurofeedback, Chronic Stress & Trauma with Shale Maulana, MPH, LMSW 17.06.2026 58min

  Have you ever done therapy, read the books, prayed, journaled… and still felt stuck? Still anxious. Still overwhelmed. Still on edge in your own body. In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, sits down with Shale Maulana, MPH, LMSW, a Brooklyn-based therapist and public health professional, to explore a deeper question many people are quietly asking: Why do I still feel this way even after doing "the work"? This conversation goes beyond surface-level coping skills and gets into what's really happening in the brain and body when healing feels stuck. Together, Diana and Shale break down: Chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation Why talk therapy alone is not always enough How trauma, environment, and lived experiences shape mental health What liberation-based therapy actually means (in simple terms) How neurofeedback (brain training) works and why it may help The impact of ACE scores (Adverse Childhood Experiences) on long-term health Real-life examples of how culture, environment, and stress affect mental health Practical tools to calm your nervous system and start healing This episode is honest, real, and deeply educational — without being overwhelming. Two Powerful Quotes from This Episode Diana S. Rice: "We're not here to get political. We're here to get clear." Shale Maulana: "You are not broken. Your nervous system is responding to things. These are adaptations, not failures." What You'll Learn Why you can understand your patterns but still feel stuck The difference between chronic stress, trauma, and survival mode Signs your nervous system may be dysregulated (sleep issues, anxiety, hypervigilance) How public health connects to mental health and burnout Why your environment and lived experiences matter in healing How neurofeedback helps retrain the brain using neuroplasticity Why healing is not a quick fix — and what actually works long term Simple, science-based tools you can start using today About Shale Maulana, MPH, LMSW Shale Maulana, MPH, LMSW, is a liberation-based therapist specializing in trauma healing for marginalized communities and high achievers. She integrates neurofeedback, EMDR, somatic therapy, and clinical hypnotherapy to help clients regulate their nervous systems and break free from anxiety, trauma patterns, and chronic stress. With a background in public health research, Shale brings a unique perspective that connects individual mental health struggles with larger patterns like chronic stress, environment, and lived experience. She is based in Brooklyn, New York, and works with clients both locally and online. Resources & Links Connect with Shale Maulana: https://www.shalemaulana.com/ https://www.shalemaulana.com/speaking-and-media Diana S. Rice & Services: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ https://www.transformedmindcc.com/ ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/aces/about/index.html https://www.cdc.gov/aces/communication-resources/index.html https://www.traumainformedcare.chcs.org/resource/original-ace-questionnaire/ Free Breathing App (mentioned in episode): https://breathly.app/ https://apps.apple.com/us/app/breathly/id1454852966 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mmazzarolo.breathly Why This Episode Matters Too many people have been told they are the problem. But what if your anxiety, burnout, or emotional overwhelm is not a failure… …but a nervous system response to chronic stress, trauma, and lived experience? This episode helps you understand: You are not broken. You are responding. And once you understand that — you can begin to heal differently. Support the Podcast If this episode helped you understand yourself better, please: Share it with someone who needs it Leave a written review on Apple Podcasts Follow and subscribe on your favorite platform Your support helps more people find faith-based, science-informed, stigma-breaking mental health conversations.  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical advice. Please seek support from a licensed professional for your specific needs. Closing Reminder Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind.
• Ep. 112 - From Addiction to Purpose: Recovery, Incarceration, Trauma, and Rebuilding Life w/ Andrew Drasen 10.06.2026 1godz 3min

  Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made humans. In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice sits down with Andrew Drasen, author of A Vision of Hope, to explore the reality of addiction, recovery, incarceration, trauma, relapse, identity, and second chances. Andrew shares his lived experience with substance use, overdose, jail, prison, repeated treatment attempts, and the long, difficult road toward healing. This is not a polished highlight reel. It is a real conversation about how addiction can hijack the mind, body, and nervous system, why shame keeps people stuck, and why recovery is about far more than just stopping a behavior. Together, Diana and Andrew unpack what people often misunderstand about addiction, how early pain and emotional struggles can shape later substance use, why community and accountability matter, and what it really takes to rebuild a life with purpose after hitting rock bottom. They also discuss gaps in treatment, the difference between punishment and rehabilitation, the role of identity in lasting recovery, and why hope is often the very first step toward change. Whether you are struggling with addiction, love someone who is, work in mental health, serve in ministry, care about justice reform, or simply feel stuck in a painful cycle, this conversation offers honesty, compassion, and hope. What We Cover in This Episode what addiction feels like from the inside why addiction is not simply a willpower problem the connection between trauma, shame, nervous system dysregulation, and substance use Andrew's progression from marijuana and alcohol to Xanax, Adderall, opioids, and heroin what repeated treatment and incarceration taught him why identity is a missing piece in many recovery conversations how writing became part of his healing process the story behind A Vision of Hope and his recovery curriculum why Andrew believes group work and closed-cohort support can be so powerful what needs to change in systems of treatment, reentry, and rehabilitation why hope, purpose, and community matter in healing Why This Episode Matters People are actively searching for answers to questions like: How does addiction start? Why do people relapse? Can someone rebuild life after prison or overdose? What actually helps addiction recovery last? How do families support a loved one without losing themselves? What is the difference between punishment and rehabilitation? Is there hope after years of addiction? This episode speaks directly to those questions with both lived experience and compassionate reflection. Key Takeaways Addiction is all-consuming. Andrew describes addiction as something that can take over the thought process, hijack the nervous system, and become as urgent as basic survival. Compassion matters. He reminds us that people struggling with addiction are not just making random bad choices. Many are hurting deeply, trying to cope, and often feel trapped inside patterns they do not know how to break. Recovery is not just behavior change. One of the biggest themes in this conversation is that recovery is not only about saying no to a substance. It is also about learning who you are becoming and why that life is worth protecting. Identity matters. Andrew shares that one of the missing pieces for him was adopting a new identity and filling the void that addiction once occupied with meaning, purpose, and connection. Hope is the prerequisite to change. If someone cannot imagine a different future, they are far less likely to fight for one. Community matters. Healing often happens in safe, honest, connected spaces where people are seen, challenged, encouraged, and supported. About Andrew Drasen Andrew Drasen is the author of A Vision of Hope, a memoir trilogy rooted in lived experience with addiction, incarceration, and intentional living. His work focuses on resilience, accountability, and community rebuilding through narrative and reflective practice. He is the creator of: A Vision of Hope: A Story of Redemption and Purpose A Vision of Hope: Reflections A Vision of Hope: The Workbook Andrew speaks on the intersection of personal transformation, systemic experience, recovery, and purposeful growth. His goal is to help individuals, communities, and systems better understand what real change can look like. Connect with Andrew Drasen Website: https://avisionofhopebook.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/drewwithad LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/andrewdrasen Instagram: https://instagram.com/andrewdrasen X: https://x.com/andrewdrasen Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/58297825.Andrew_Drasen Resources Mentioned A Vision of Hope trilogy by Andrew Drasen A Vision of Hope: A Story of Redemption and Purpose A Vision of Hope: Reflections A Vision of Hope: The Workbook Find mental health or substance use treatment SAMHSA's FindTreatment.gov is a confidential, anonymous treatment locator for mental health and substance use services in the United States. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 for immediate support during a mental health, emotional, or substance use crisis. SAMHSA states that 988 offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors by call, text, and chat. Naloxone / Narcan Naloxone is a medicine that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. NIDA explains that it works by attaching to opioid receptors and reversing the effects of an overdose. Why treatment during incarceration matters An NIH-supported 2025 study found that providing medication treatment for opioid use disorder in jail was associated with lower overdose risk, lower death risk, and lower reincarceration after release. Support for loved ones Andrew mentions the importance of support for family members too, including groups like Al-Anon. For broader behavioral health help, SAMHSA also offers national support and treatment resources. Andrew Drasen Quotes "Addiction is all-consuming." "It hijacks your body, mind, and soul." "No one wants to be addicted." "At the end, like, I didn't get high anymore, it just made me feel okay." "If you're relying on any kind of substance or anything external for you to feel okay inside, it's temporary." "Change is possible. You just have to believe it." "That's, like, the prerequisite to change, in my opinion. If you don't have hope that your circumstance can improve, you're not gonna put the effort forth to change the circumstance." "We need to stop punishing drug users, because it's a public health issue." "Our policy should keep people alive long enough to get help." "I don't even identify as an addict anymore." Diana S. Rice Quotes "Addiction is not just about substances. It's about pain. It's about patterns. It's about the brain, the body, trauma, and survival." "Healing is not just about stopping a behavior. It's about rebuilding identity, learning accountability, and finding purpose again." "We're meant to be in community." "Do not give up on yourself." "Understand that you have a purpose, and there's forgiveness." Who This Episode Is For This episode is for: people struggling with addiction people in recovery loved ones trying to understand addiction therapists and mental health professionals pastors, coaches, and ministry leaders reentry and justice reform advocates anyone trying to break unhealthy cycles and build a better life Support the Show If this episode encouraged you, please share it with someone who needs hope today, leave a review, and support The Holistic Counselor Podcast by checking out Diana's resources, offerings, and merch through https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, psychiatric care, addiction treatment, or legal advice. If you or someone you love is in immediate crisis, call or text 988 right now for 24/7 crisis support. If you suspect an opioid overdose, call emergency services immediately and administer naloxone if available.
• Ep. 111 - Men's Mental Health, Church Hurt, and Nervous System Healing with Sacred Grit's Spiritual Coach, Jason Lyle 03.06.2026 1godz 5min

  Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Jason Lyle, founder of Sacred Grit, spiritual coach, and host of The Sacred Grit Podcast, for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about men's mental health, addiction recovery, church hurt, nervous system regulation, and faith reconstruction. Jason shares parts of his personal story—from growing up in the Southern Baptist church, to becoming a pastor, to navigating addiction, shame, and ultimately stepping away from traditional ministry. Through that journey, he began exploring how nervous system regulation, breathwork, cold exposure, meditation, and embodied practices can help people create space between emotional triggers and destructive behaviors. Together, Diana and Jason discuss why so many people today are wrestling with faith deconstruction, religious trauma, pornography addiction, and identity confusion, and why healing often requires both personal responsibility and compassionate support. They also explore the connection between neuroplasticity, nervous system regulation, spiritual formation, and behavioral change, along with the importance of building a supportive team that may include therapists, recovery communities, coaches, and healthy relationships. This episode may resonate with listeners searching for: • men's mental health and addiction recovery • healing from church hurt or religious trauma • nervous system regulation and emotional resilience • faith reconstruction and spiritual growth • pornography addiction and shame recovery • breathwork, cold exposure, and mind-body healing practices As always, the goal of this podcast is to create space for honest conversations that help people grow in clarity, responsibility, compassion, and hope. In This Episode We Discuss • Jason's story: from pastor to men's coach • Growing up in church and early exposure to pornography • Purity culture and the impact of shame on identity • Faith deconstruction and reconstructing spiritual beliefs • Nervous system regulation and trauma responses • The amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and impulse control • Breathwork, cold plunging, and discomfort training • Addiction recovery and behavioral patterns • The role of discipline, accountability, and daily practice • Why healing is rarely a quick fix Quotable Moments "Dysregulation is an attempt to soothe a trauma." — Jason Lyle "When your feet touch the floor in the morning, take five minutes and do one thing that makes you feel radically loved by yourself." — Jason Lyle "They still want to keep their faith… they still want to love the Lord and be in the Word, and it's like disentangling." — Diana S. Rice "The goal of this podcast is not to give quick fixes, but to create space for honest conversations that help people grow in clarity, responsibility, compassion, and hope." — Diana S. Rice Connect with Jason Lyle Sacred Grit Website https://thesacredgrit.com Sacred Grit Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sacred-grit-daily-nervous-system-tools-and-spiritual/id1611084095 Coaching and Retreat Information https://thesacredgrit.com/explore-coaching Contact Jason https://thesacredgrit.com/contact Adventures in Recovery (AIR) https://www.recoveryadventures.org Books and Resources Mentioned Dopamine Nation – Dr. Anna Lembke https://www.annalembke.com/dopamine-nation Widen the Window – Dr. Elizabeth Stanley https://elizabeth-stanley.com/books-publications/widen-the-window/ The Body Keeps the Score – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk https://www.besselvanderkolk.com/resources/the-body-keeps-the-score Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma – Dr. Peter Levine https://www.northatlanticbooks.com/shop/waking-the-tiger-healing-trauma/ The Ragamuffin Gospel – Brennan Manning https://www.brennanmanning.com/books/the-ragamuffin-gospel The Cosmic Christ – Richard Rohr https://cac.org/books/the-universal-christ/ The Sin of Certainty – Peter Enns https://peteenns.com/books/the-sin-of-certainty/ Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Dr. Richard Schwartz https://ifs-institute.com Support The Holistic Counselor Podcast If this conversation encouraged or challenged you in a meaningful way, please consider supporting the podcast. • Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify • Share this episode with someone who may benefit • Explore podcast merch and resources The Holistic Counselor Podcast Merch and Support https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.com Disclaimer The Holistic Counselor Podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace professional mental health treatment, medical advice, diagnosis, or therapy. Jason Lyle is a coach and spiritual mentor and is not a licensed therapist. If you are struggling with addiction, trauma, or thoughts of self-harm, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional. In the United States, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
• Ep. 110 - When Words Aren't Enough: How Art Therapy Heals Trauma, Anxiety & Relationships (MBT Explained) | Anna Green, LMHC 27.05.2026 58min

  In Episode 110 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Anna Green, LMHC, Chief Clinical Officer at Thrive, to answer questions people are actively searching for, including: What is art therapy (really)? Do you have to be "good at art" for art therapy to help? Why can creativity feel safer than talking about trauma? What is MBT (Mentalization-Based Treatment) in simple terms? How do curiosity and the "not-knowing stance" support healing and relationships? What do therapists need right now to prevent burnout and stay grounded? Anna brings over a decade of experience across mental health, addiction, and palliative care, along with training in art therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and MBT. Together, Diana and Anna explore how creativity can help people process emotions, reduce shame, and reconnect to themselves—especially when words feel too hard, too risky, or simply not available. This conversation is for clinicians, creatives, trauma survivors, people of faith, and anyone who wants more emotional clarity, better communication, and more compassion in relationships. About This Episode's Guest: Anna Green, LMHC Anna Green, LMHC is the Chief Clinical Officer at Thrive and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with clinical experience in multiple levels of care. She has worked in education settings, hospice/palliative environments (supporting families and siblings), and clinical leadership roles—bringing both depth and practicality to the work of healing. What You'll Learn (Key Takeaways) What Art Therapy Is (and what it's NOT) Art therapy is psychotherapy that uses art as a tool for expression and exploration, alongside conversation. It is not an art class, and you do not need talent or skill to benefit. Why Art Can Feel Safer Than Words Some experiences happen before language, or in environments where speaking up led to punishment or shame. Art can help people express what's inside in a way that feels less exposing and more contained. MBT: Mentalization-Based Treatment in Plain Language Anna explains mentalizing as the ability to understand what's happening in your own mind and in someone else's mind—including thoughts, feelings, intentions, and beliefs—so relationships become clearer and less reactive. Curiosity as a Healing Skill This episode repeatedly returns to one theme: curiosity. Curiosity interrupts mind-reading, slows assumptions, strengthens relationships, and supports trauma-informed care—for clients and clinicians. Burnout Prevention for Therapists Anna shares what clinicians need most right now: higher-quality supervision that includes the therapist's inner experience, role-play and skill modeling, personal therapy when needed, transition rituals between work and home, and ongoing learning. Practical Tools You Can Try This Week (No Therapy Required) 1) "Take a line for a walk." Grab a pen and paper. Start with one line. No plan. No pressure. Just begin. This is a powerful way to start when the blank page feels intimidating. 2) Turn assumptions into questions Instead of mind-reading, practice checking things out: "Can I clarify what you meant by that?" "I noticed I felt unsure—can we talk about it?" "Help me understand what was going on for you." Quotes Worth Replaying (From This Episode) Diana S. Rice (Host) "Sometimes talk therapy isn't enough." "Healing is not just about diagnosis. It's about clarity. It's about connection." Anna Green (Guest) "You do not have to be an artist to do art therapy." "Mentalizing is a process of understanding what's going on in your mind and what's going on in somebody else's mind."   Resources Mentioned (Links) Thrive (Anna's organization): https://gothrivemh.com Anna Freud Centre (MBT training / background): https://www.annafreud.org/training/ Mentalization-Based Treatment (overview page for learning more): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentalization-based_treatment (Helpful starting point for general readers; not a substitute for clinical training.) Book Anna recommends: On Learning from the Patient — Patrick Casement Art4Healing (Diana's COVID-era group experience; they note they are not art therapy): https://art4healing.org/ Understanding MBT: https://www.annafreud.org/training/health-and-social-care/mentalization-based-treatments-mbt/mentalization-based-treatment-adults/about-mbt/ 'Art Therapy and Sexual Offending' < Anna's published research - https://us.jkp.com/products/arts-therapies-and-sexual-offending Connect + Learn More If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, share it with a friend, and leave a review—it genuinely helps more people find these conversations. And as always: trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind. Support the Podcast This podcast is independently created — no sponsors, no big production team. Each episode takes 3–5 hours to research, record, edit, and publish because these conversations matter. If this episode encouraged you, challenged you, or helped you grow, one simple way to support the mission is by visiting the merch store. Every purchase directly helps sustain this work and keep these faith-centered, evidence-informed conversations going. Shop here: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/   Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, medical advice, diagnosis, or psychotherapy. Listening does not create a therapist-client relationship with Diana S. Rice or any guest. If you are in crisis or believe you may be experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
• Ep. 109 - Church Hurt, Religious Trauma & High-Achieving Christian Women: Healing Perfectionism & Burnout in Leadership | Robin Goad, Author & AWS Executive 20.05.2026 56min

  What happens when a high-achieving woman climbs the corporate ladder—but is still carrying unresolved trauma, religious fear, and deep shame beneath the surface? In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Robin Goad, an Amazon Web Services (AWS) executive, speaker, and author of Girl by Birth. Woman by Fire. to talk about the intersection of trauma healing, church hurt, perfectionism, and leadership for Christian women. Robin shares her story of survival and transformation—childhood trauma, religious control, perfectionism, abortion-related grief, divorce, and the turning points that brought her into deeper healing and freedom through faith. This conversation is for anyone who has ever wondered: How do I heal from church hurt without walking away from God? Why does trauma show up as overworking, perfectionism, or burnout? Can I be ambitious and still honor Jesus? How do I lead with confidence without self-abandonment? If you're a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus but feels tired, conflicted, or invisible… you are not alone. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN (KEY TAKEAWAYS) How unresolved trauma can drive perfectionism, overworking, and burnout The difference between "religion as performance" vs. a life-giving relationship with God What Robin means by a "healthy church" (imperfect, but accountable and Scripture-rooted) Why quiet, stillness, and "pause" are essential for healing and discernment How shame and secrecy keep women isolated—and why safe community matters Post-abortion healing: forgiveness vs. true healing and freedom How to identify your "superpower" in corporate leadership (without comparison or imposter syndrome) ABOUT ROBIN GOAD Robin Goad is a wife, mother, grandmother, and "warrior in heels." She is a seasoned technology executive with over 25 years leading innovation at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Dell, Gartner, and more. Robin currently leads AWS Global Industry Solutions, delivering record-breaking growth and transformation. She is also the author of Girl by Birth. Woman by Fire, a raw and redemptive guide for women who want to stop performing and start healing. (Guest bio provided by Robin.) CONNECT WITH ROBIN Website: https://www.therealrobingoad.com Email: robin@therealrobingoad.com LinkedIn: (Search "Robin Goad" on LinkedIn) Free Call: On Robin's website, look for the option to schedule a "Superpower" call. RESOURCES MENTIONED Rachel's Vineyard (post-abortion healing retreats): https://www.rachelsvineyard.org/ CliftonStrengths (Gallup): https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths 16 Personalities (MBTI-based): https://www.16personalities.com/ DISC Personality Assessment (general info): https://www.discprofile.com/ SHAPE Spiritual Gifts Test: https://www.freeshapetest.com/ DISCLAIMER This podcast episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, medical advice, diagnosis, or therapy. If you are in crisis, contact 988 (U.S.) or your local emergency services.
• Ep. 108 - Long Covid, Chronic Fatigue, and Anxiety — When the Body Isn't Believed and the Nervous System Suffers | Evan H. Hirsch, MD 13.05.2026 49min

  Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. In this powerful and deeply human conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC explores what happens when physical illness, nervous system dysregulation, anxiety, and depression collide — especially in a medical system that often minimizes or dismisses symptoms it cannot easily explain. Six years after COVID changed the world, many people are still struggling with lingering symptoms, exhaustion, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and a profound sense of not feeling like themselves. For some, these experiences are labeled as "just anxiety." For others, answers never come at all. In Episode 108 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana is joined by Evan H. Hirsch, a physician known as EnergyMD, to unpack the complex intersection of Long Covid, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), trauma, nervous system dysregulation, and mental health. This episode is not about quick fixes or miracle cures. It's about understanding the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — and restoring self-trust after prolonged illness and medical invalidation.  What You'll Learn in This Episode What Long Covid is and why symptoms can persist months or years after infection Why anxiety and depression can be symptoms, not root causes, of unresolved physical stress How medical gaslighting impacts mental health and nervous system regulation The concept of the "Toxic 5" (heavy metals, chemicals, mold, infections, nervous system dysfunction) How trauma (including ACEs) and chronic illness interact in the body Why the nervous system plays a central role in healing chronic fatigue and Long Covid A layperson explanation of sympathetic vs. parasympathetic nervous system states What a Herxheimer (die-off) reaction is and why it can temporarily worsen symptoms Practical, accessible steps listeners can start today to support healing Why healing requires pace, patience, and support, not hustle or perfection  Nervous System, Trauma, and Mental Health This conversation emphasizes a trauma-informed, whole-person lens. Diana and Evan discuss how unresolved infections, inflammation, mold exposure, and environmental stressors can alter neurotransmitters, intensify anxiety and depression, and keep the body stuck in survival mode. Listeners will hear why nervous system retraining, breathwork, gratitude practices, mindset shifts, and lifestyle changes are not "extra" — they are foundational.  Resources & Links Mentioned EnergyMD Method (Dr. Hirsch's practice & masterclass): https://www.energymdmethod.com Is Your Fatigue Fixable? Assessment: https://www.myfatiguescore.com Book: Fix Your Fatigue by Evan H. Hirsch, MD (An overview of his 4-step framework for chronic fatigue and complex illness) Key Concepts Discussed: Long Covid Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Vagus nerve & polyvagal theory Nervous system retraining Breathwork, gratitude, and mindset practices  A Note from Diana If you've been told "everything looks normal" while your body says otherwise — you are not imagining things, and you are not broken. Anxiety and depression are often signals, not verdicts. This episode is an invitation to listen to your body with curiosity instead of shame, to move slowly, and to seek care that honors your whole story.  Listen, Share & Stay Connected If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with someone who feels exhausted, unheard, or discouraged.  Subscribe, rate, and review The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Follow Diana's work at Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Check out the merch store:  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind. 
• Ep. 107 - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Attachment, Cycles, and How Couples Heal with Dr. Marni Feuerman 06.05.2026 46min

  In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice sits down with relationship expert Dr. Marni Feuerman for a deep, practical conversation about Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)—what it is, how it works, and why it has become one of the most researched and effective approaches to couples therapy today. Many people confuse EFT with tapping techniques, but Emotionally Focused Therapy is a structured, evidence-based talk therapy grounded in attachment science, emotional regulation, and interpersonal neurobiology. Dr. Feuerman breaks down the origins of EFT, how it helps couples move out of painful cycles, and why most relationship conflicts are not really about money, chores, or sex—but about emotional safety, connection, and whether we matter to one another. This conversation is especially helpful for: Couples feeling stuck in the same arguments Therapists wanting a clear explanation of EFT in practice Individuals curious about attachment patterns and emotional responsiveness Faith communities and cultures where therapy still carries stigma Listeners will hopefully walk away with hope, clarity, and practical, EFT-informed tools they can begin using right away. What You'll Learn in This Episode What Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is—and how it differs from EFT tapping Who developed EFT and why attachment science matters in adult relationships Why couples often fight about surface issues instead of the real emotional pain underneath How negative interaction cycles become the "common enemy" in relationships What therapists mean by tracking and mapping patterns Why EFT focuses on emotional safety before problem-solving How EFT is used with couples, individuals, and families The difference between emotions and feelings, and why that distinction matters Simple, EFT-inspired shifts anyone can practice—even outside of therapy A message of hope for couples who feel disconnected or discouraged Guest Bio: Dr. Marni Feuerman Dr. Marni Feuerman is a psychotherapist based in South Florida with nearly 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She holds a master's degree in social work and a doctorate in clinical psychology, with specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and couples work. Dr. Feuerman is a clinical supervisor, author, and a widely respected voice on relationships. Her work has been featured in major outlets including Verywell Mind, HuffPost, and The Gottman Institute. She previously served as the marriage expert content writer for About.com and continues to educate the public through media, writing, and clinical practice. She is also the author of Ghosted & Breadcrumbed: Stop Falling for Unavailable Men and Get Smart About Healthy Relationships, a self-help book designed to help women recognize unhealthy relationship patterns and move toward more secure, emotionally available connections. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Book: Ghosted & Breadcrumbed: Stop Falling for Unavailable Men and Get Smart About Healthy Relationships https://a.co/d/08WLFnfP Article by Dr. Marni Feuerman on EFT (Verywell Mind): https://www.verywellmind.com/emotionally-focused-therapy-for-distressed-couples-2303813 Book: Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson https://www.amazon.com/dp/031611300X Attachment Theory (general overview): https://www.simplypsychology.org/attachment.html The ARE Model (Accessible, Responsive, Engaged) – based on EFT principles Explained in Hold Me Tight and EFT literature Key Takeaways Most relationship conflict is rooted in attachment fears, not surface disagreements EFT helps couples externalize the problem by identifying the cycle, not blaming each other Emotional safety must come before communication strategies Change is possible—even when couples feel far apart Learning how to pause, soften, and respond differently can begin rewiring relational patterns About the Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP is a licensed mental health counselor, consultant, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. Through Through the Valley Therapy and Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching, Diana integrates faith, brain science, trauma-informed care, and whole-person healing to help individuals and communities grow with clarity and compassion. Support the Podcast This podcast is independent and ad-free. Each episode takes 3–5 hours to research, record, and produce with care. If this conversation supported you: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Explore the merch store to support this work  Merch Store: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind
• Ep. 106 - CIRS (Mold Illness) Symptoms & Nervous System Healing After MS — Christine Ruch, Holistic Transformation Guide 29.04.2026 58min

  If you've ever been told your labs are "normal" while your body feels anything but, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Christine Ruch, Holistic Transformation Guide, to explore Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), autoimmune illness, and the role of the nervous system in healing—through the lived experience of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Christine shares her 20-year journey navigating MS, chronic inflammation, mold exposure, and nervous system overwhelm, and how healing required more than symptom management. Together, Diana and Christine discuss why anxiety, depression, brain fog, and emotional exhaustion are often physiological signals, not personal or spiritual failures. This episode is trauma-informed, faith-aware, and grounded in compassion—without blaming doctors, bypassing symptoms, or promising quick fixes. In This Episode, We Cover: What CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) is and why it's often misunderstood Common CIRS and mold illness symptoms, including anxiety, depression, brain fog, and nervous system dysregulation How autoimmune conditions like Multiple Sclerosis can impact identity, faith, and mental health Why "normal labs" don't always mean a regulated nervous system The emotional toll of navigating complex illness and feeling dismissed What nervous system restoration actually means (beyond calming techniques) The role of trauma, chronic stress, and early adversity in inflammatory illness How to approach healing without self-blame or spiritual bypassing Gentle, practical steps to support your nervous system when you're already exhausted Important Disclaimer This episode is educational and informational only. Diana S. Rice and Christine Ruch are not medical doctors, and nothing shared in this episode is intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. Always consult with licensed and qualified healthcare professionals regarding your individual health needs. Resources Mentioned in This Episode (Links provided for educational purposes only) Christine Ruch – Official Website & Mentorship Programs https://www.christineruch.com/ Surviving Mold (Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker) – CIRS Education & Symptom Clusters https://www.survivingmold.com/ Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS) https://retrainingthebrain.com/ The Gupta Program (Limbic System Retraining) https://www.guptaprogram.com/ Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, MD https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/316790/the-body-keeps-the-score-by-bessel-van-der-kolk-md/ About the Guest Christine Ruch is a Holistic Transformation Guide who supports individuals with chronic and autoimmune conditions in reconnecting with their body's innate wisdom and healing capacity. After spending more than two decades navigating and healing through her own experience with Multiple Sclerosis, Christine integrates whole-food nutrition, nervous system restoration, trauma-informed practices, and spiritual inquiry to help others move beyond symptom management and toward embodied healing. Support the Show If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to The Holistic Counselor Podcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — reviews help this show reach others who feel alone in their healing journey Share this episode with someone who needs language, validation, and hope Podcast Merch Support the podcast and grab meaningful merch here:  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Connect with Diana The Holistic Counselor Podcast explores the intersection of faith, neuroscience, trauma-informed care, and whole-person healing. Thank you for being here—and for choosing curiosity, compassion, and courage on your healing journey.
• Ep. 105 - Single, Sexual, and Saved: Healing Shame, Purity Culture Wounds, and Disenfranchised Grief w Tracy Nallery Fultz, LCSW 22.04.2026 1godz 6min

  Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human, and welcome back to The Holistic Counselor Podcast. In Episode 105, I sit down with Tracy Nallery Fultz, a licensed clinical social worker, author, and founder of Heartfelt Needs Counseling and Caring Center, for one of the most honest, clinically grounded, and faith-centered conversations we've had on the show. This episode is for anyone who: Loves Jesus but feels confused, shamed, or silenced by church culture Is trying to disentangle biblical truth from purity culture, fear-based teaching, or spiritual control Has experienced church hurt, sexual shame, or unresolved grief Wants to integrate faith, mental health, nervous system regulation, and emotional honesty—without abandoning Christ This is not about tearing faith down. It is about discernment, healing, and learning how to hold faith and humanity together in a healthier, more honest way. Together, Tracy and I talk openly about: Prolonged singleness and desire Disenfranchised grief (the grief no one names or validates) Shame vs. guilt vs. conviction Purity culture wounds and sexual silence in Christian spaces Using the Fruit of the Spirit as a practical mental-health framework Why relationship with God matters more than rigid religious rules How nervous system dysregulation impacts choices, sexuality, and self-control Why mercy, not fear, is central to healing If you've ever felt like you had to choose between being a "good Christian" and being a real human—this conversation is for you. WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE What disenfranchised grief really is—and why it affects single adults, survivors, and people leaving high-control religious systems Why desire and arousal are not sinful, but often misunderstood How shame becomes an identity attack, not just an emotion The difference between religion-based condemnation and relationship-based conviction How to reframe self-care as biblical self-stewardship, not selfishness Why joy is not constant happiness—but a condition of the soul How trauma, church hurt, and nervous system dysregulation affect sexual behavior How to apply Galatians 5:22–23 (Fruit of the Spirit) to therapy, self-talk, and boundaries POWERFUL QUOTES FROM THE EPISODE Tracy Nallery Fultz "Disenfranchised grief is the grief we carry that no one acknowledges—especially the grief of waiting." "Desire is normal, natural, healthy, and good. The problem isn't desire—it's the environment around it." "Shame as a feeling is one thing. A spirit of shame comes for your identity." "Happiness is an emotion. Joy is a condition of your soul." "Weakness is not your identity. It's an indicator that something is needed." "Religion says condemnation. Relationship says mercy triumphs over judgment." Diana S. Rice "This isn't about deconstruction. It's about discernment and healing." "You have to stop and ask—did this belief come from Scripture, or from someone using Scripture to control you?" "People think they have no choice—but you always have a choice." "Self-control is about agency, not punishment." "Faith without nervous system regulation is incomplete healing." USING THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT AS A HEALING FRAMEWORK Tracy breaks down Galatians 5:22–23 in a clinically practical way: Love → Unconditional self-acceptance Joy → Meaning and gratitude even while grieving Peace → Grounding and calming the nervous system Patience → Allowing healing to be slow and non-linear Kindness → Gentle self-talk instead of self-attack Goodness → Choosing habits aligned with values Faithfulness → Showing up for yourself consistently Gentleness → Soothing the inner critic with empathy Self-Control → Boundaries, agency, and intentional choices Reflection Question: Which fruit do you need most right now—and how can you practice it toward yourself today? RESOURCES MENTIONED (WORKING LINKS) My Journey Solo – Book & Devotional (Tracy Nallery Fultz): https://heartfeltneeds.myflodesk.com/myjourneysolo Heartfelt Needs Counseling & Caring Center: https://heartfeltneeds.com Heartfelt Needs on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartFeltNeeds/ Heartfelt Needs on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartfeltneeds Free Journaling Hour Community (Monthly, First Tuesday): Details available through Tracy's website and email list SUPPORT THE PODCAST (AD-FREE & INDEPENDENT) The Holistic Counselor Podcast is intentionally ad-free so these conversations can stay ethical, trauma-informed, and faith-centered. If this episode helped you, you can support the show by visiting the merch shop:  https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Your support helps keep this podcast going without compromising its mission. PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW If this episode resonated, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Reviews help more people find this work—especially those quietly struggling with faith, shame, and healing. DISCLAIMER The Holistic Counselor Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, mental health, or professional counseling advice. Listening does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Diana S. Rice or any guest. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or feel unsafe, please contact your local emergency services or a qualified mental health professional. Remember: Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind.
• Ep. 104 - The Truth About Teen Recovery: Family Systems, Stigma, and Getting the Right Level of Care w/ Katie Cousins, MSW 15.04.2026 57min

  Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Masters-level Social Worker and Certified Life Coach, Katie Cousins, to explore how family systems, recovery, and access to care shape the outcomes of adolescents, young adults, and their families—especially in moments of crisis. Katie brings over a decade of experience in clinical residential treatment, program development, and community collaboration. Now serving as a Clinical Outreach Specialist for Newport Healthcare, she helps families navigate levels of care, understand systems theory, and access ethical, evidence-based treatment across South Florida. This episode is for listeners searching for support in: family systems, residential treatment for teens, PHP vs. IOP, understanding trauma, South Florida mental-health resources, breaking stigma in recovery, and how to find the right level of care for a struggling loved one. What We Discuss in This Episode What family systems theory is—and why it's not about blaming parents How systems influence behaviors like depression, anxiety, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders Big T trauma vs. little t trauma Why South Florida has such a robust mental-health and recovery ecosystem What a Clinical Outreach Specialist actually does How to know when a child or adult may need a higher level of care Clear explanation of Residential, PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program), and IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) The difference between the visible stigma (opiates) and the silent stigma (alcoholic moms) What "recovery" really means—and why it's more than addiction How accurate fact-finding reduces fear, stigma, and shame for families The role of community, collaboration, and asking better questions Two Powerful Quotes from This Episode From Katie: "Recovery means, I don't want to feel this way anymore, and I'm doing something about it." From Diana: "We go from false evidence appearing real to facing everything and rising." Resources Mentioned & Helpful Links Newport Healthcare (Adolescent & Young Adult Mental Health Treatment) Learn more about programs, levels of care, and family support: https://www.newporthealthcare.com/ Through the Valley Therapy (Diana's private-pay online practice for adults in Florida) https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ The Holistic Counselor Podcast Homepage & Episode Library https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/podcast 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) Call or text 988 for immediate support if you or someone you love is in crisis. Support This Work Each episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast takes hours of research, recording, and trauma-informed production to bring you thoughtful, faith-integrated conversations. If this episode encouraged you or helped expand your understanding of systems, recovery, or family dynamics, one way to support the show is through the merch store: Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this conversation resonated, please consider leaving a review or sharing the episode with someone who may benefit. Your support helps more listeners discover these healing conversations.
• Ep. 103 - Why Men Struggle With Emotions: Fixer-Type Masculinity, Anger, and Healing w/ Jon Waller, LMHC 08.04.2026 1godz 1min

  In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, licensed therapist and host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Jon Waller, LMHC, owner of New River Counseling in Fort Lauderdale, to dive deep into men's mental health, modern masculinity, emotional disconnection, and the cultural pressures that shape how men show up in relationships, faith, and everyday life. Together, Diana and Jon unpack the silent battles many men face—why so many avoid feelings, what creates emotional shutdown, and how "fixer-type" men can learn to communicate differently without feeling weak or ashamed. Jon also explains why spaces like the Red Pill, Groypers, incel forums, and the broader manosphere appeal to young men who feel disconnected, unsupported, or resentful—and what healthier connection can look like. If you're a man who feels stuck, a woman trying to understand the man in your life, or a clinician working with male clients, this episode offers a grounded, trauma-informed, faith-aware conversation that meets men where they are and gives practical tools for growth. Notable Quotes  From Jon: "If what you're into isn't actually helping you feel more loved—especially by a woman—then it might be time to consider there's an alternative out there." From Diana: "Do you want the relationship, or do you want to be right? Because the pursuit of being right often blocks the connection you're actually longing for."   In This Episode We Explore: Why men struggle to talk about emotions and how cultural conditioning reinforces emotional shutdown The difference between anger and rage, and how sadness, shame, or fear often fuel explosive reactions Sarcasm, "I'm just kidding," defensiveness, and stonewalling as covert expressions of unspoken emotion Why younger men increasingly gravitate toward the Red Pill, Groypers, content creators, and manosphere spaces The deep impact of father wounds, mother wounds, intergenerational trauma, and childhood narratives How machismo, faith communities, and family culture shape male emotional expression Masculine and feminine energy as a spectrum—not a rulebook Step-by-step how Jon works with emotionally shut-down men: Behavioral tools Motivational Interviewing (MI) Body scanning + breathwork Naming internal experiences Adlerian and inner-child work A compassionate message for women partnered with withdrawn or avoidant men A direct challenge to men: "Is your current way of coping actually making your life better?" About Today's Guest: Jon Waller, LMHC Jon Waller is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and owner of New River Counseling, specializing in men's emotional health, relationship patterns, and personal growth. With 20+ years of experience, Jon helps men build emotional integrity, break unhelpful patterns, and create deeper connection—without shame. He also serves as an Instructor for The REAL Courses, a weekend personal-development intensive grounded in Adlerian psychology and experiential growth work. Learn more: New River Counseling: https://newrivercounseling.net/ The REAL Courses: https://therealcourses.com/ Mentioned Modalities & Approaches Motivational Interviewing (MI) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Person-centered / Rogers / unconditional positive regard Adlerian experiential therapy Inner child work Psychoeducation and emotional vocabulary building Body scanning + breathwork Attachment dynamics (avoidant, anxious, shut-down patterns) Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care and trauma-informed intention. If this podcast has supported your healing or encouraged you on your journey, you can help keep it independent and ad-free by visiting the merch store. Your purchase directly supports the show and its mission to make mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual wellness accessible worldwide. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please leave a review or share it with someone who would benefit. Your reviews help new listeners discover the show and keep these conversations going. Connect with Diana Through the Valley Therapy: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ Podcast Playlist (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo  
• Ep. 102 - When God Makes You Wait: Finding Purpose, Peace, and Emotional Strength When Life Feels Stuck — with Dr. Yolle Pierre 01.04.2026 55min

  Many people ask the same questions during difficult seasons: What do I do when I'm waiting on God? Why is this taking so long? How do I trust God when nothing is changing? How do I stay grounded when anxiety, comparison, or doubt take over? How do I renew my mind, regulate my emotions, and stay spiritually rooted when I feel stuck? In this episode, licensed therapist and host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS sits down with Dr. Yolle Pierre, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, missionary to Haiti, author, and founder of multiple faith-based healing initiatives. Together, they explore waiting, identity, spiritual formation, emotional resilience, trauma-informed faith, and what it means to abide in Christ when life doesn't go the way you expected. Drawing from her book, While I'm Waiting: 8 Actions to Take During Your Season of Waiting, Dr. Pierre shares how God shaped her through motherhood, ministry, cross-cultural work, illness, fear, and long seasons of silence and uncertainty. This conversation does not promise easy answers. Instead, it offers grounded, biblically rooted, trauma-informed insight into what waiting does inside of us mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Key Topics Covered in This Episode What it means to wait on God when life feels uncertain or delayed How seasons of waiting shape emotional resilience, identity, and worldview The biblical meaning of qavah and the connection between waiting and abiding The difference between hearing God and listening to God How anxiety, fear, and panic show up in waiting seasons How to navigate forced positivity, spiritual bypassing, and church culture pressures The role of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) in renewing the mind Why some people run from God when they are really running from guilt, shame, and legalism What it means to trust God's timing when healing or breakthrough doesn't come quickly How Scripture comes alive during suffering and long developmental seasons Emotional intelligence as part of spiritual formation How waiting affects your thoughts, desires, worldview, and relationships How to hold on to hope without ignoring reality Identity in Christ during painful transitions or silence Powerful Quotes from This Episode Best quote from Dr. Yolle Pierre: "When I look over my life, I see God was quietly molding me in the shadows when I felt forgotten, when I felt unseen." From Diana S. Rice: "Some people think they're running from God, but really they're running from the guilt, shame, and legalism they were raised with." Additional featured quotes: "Waiting isn't passive. It's abiding. It's waiting with anticipation because you trust the Father is good." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "There were seasons when I was waiting and I couldn't even breathe. That's how I relate to my clients." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "When we abide in Christ, His thoughts and our thoughts begin to merge." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "Scripture became real to me when I stopped relying on my intellect and started depending on Him." —Dr. Yolle Pierre "That global pandemic was a global PTSD for many of us." —Diana S. Rice Scriptures Referenced or Alluded To John 15:5 – Abiding in Christ Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord, not your own understanding Philippians 4:8 – Renewing the mind 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – Pray without ceasing Psalm 139:14 – Fearfully and wonderfully made 2 Corinthians 10:5 – Taking thoughts captive Matthew 7:9–11 – God as a good Father Matthew 11:28–30 – Rest, burden, and gentleness About Dr. Yolle Pierre Dr. Yolle Pierre is a follower of Jesus Christ, a missionary to Haiti, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, author, and founder of: Pearl Center for Healing & Growth, LLC Divine Therapeutic Services, Inc. Source of Life (Sous Lavi) in Jacmel, Haiti She has dedicated years to mental health, trauma-informed care, discipleship, and community transformation, including establishing the only mental health community center in Haiti's southeastern region. Her books include: While I'm Waiting: 8 Actions to Take During Your Season of Waiting Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/While-Im-Waiting-Actions-During/dp/B0FW4F6BRD/ Divine Thoughts: Seeking Peace in a Chaotic World Amazon search or her website. Connect with Dr. Pierre: Website: https://www.thepearlcenter.org Listen to More Episodes of The Holistic Counselor Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holistic-counselor/id1732149496 YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo About Your Host: Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS Diana S. Rice is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, Certified Trauma Professional, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. She specializes in Christian integrative mental health, trauma, identity development, nervous system regulation, CBT, IFS-informed work, and whole-person healing. Practice: Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Consulting, trainings, and events: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com Support This Podcast If this episode encouraged you or gave you insight into your own season of waiting, you can support this mission by: Leaving a review on Apple Podcasts Sharing this episode with someone who needs encouragement Visiting the merch store https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/  to help keep the podcast ad-free Closing Reminder As always, don't forget to trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind      
• Ep. 101 - From New Age to R.A.D.I.A.N.T. Faith: Healing, Community & Abundant Living with Lori Bergman, Realtor & Founder of the R.A.D.I.A.N.T. Women's Collective 25.03.2026 51min

  In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana sits down with Lori Bergman—South Florida Realtor, former fitness and massage professional, Jewish-background believer in Jesus, and founder of the R.A.D.I.A.N.T. Women's Collective, a Christ-centered wellness community for women. Lori shares how God met her after years of depression, New Age practices, and living in a victim mindset—and how He slowly drew her into a relationship with Jesus, a deeper understanding of Scripture, and a calling to gather women for authentic, faith-rooted connection. Together, Lori and Diana explore the tension between New Age "feel-good" spirituality and biblical truth, the reality of spiritual warfare, the importance of trauma-informed, non-legalistic faith, and why women are craving real community in an age of anxiety, overconnection online, and disconnection in real life. In This Episode, We Explore: How the R.A.D.I.A.N.T. Women's Collective began The exact moment Lori sensed God say, "You need to start a women's health and wellness networking group," and why she knew it had to be Jesus-centered, not just "wellness-branded" community. From Jewish background & New Age practices to Jesus Lori's journey through Wicca, tarot, mediums, crystals, and energy work, and how studying Scripture with mature believers helped her see how Satan counterfeits God's truth. "Feel-good spirituality" vs. biblical truth Why New Age practices can feel like a high—and why Lori now sees them as spiritually dangerous, especially when we're chasing feelings instead of grounding ourselves in God's Word and character. Legalism, shame, and judging other believers Lori and Diana talk candidly about Christian culture that declares, "She's not saved if she's doing X," and how that mindset misses God's patience, discipline, and intimate work in each believer's process. Depression, anxiety & faith: symptom vs. sin Diana explains depression and anxiety as symptoms—the body and brain trying to talk to us—while also acknowledging how rebellion, lifestyle, nutrition, and spiritual disconnection can be part of the root. R.A.D.I.A.N.T. spelled out What it means to be: Rooted in Christ Abundant Living Discipleship & Devotion Inspired Wellness Active Faith Nurturing Community Transformation Together Why women are hungry for authentic, in-person connection From Gen Z social anxiety to scrolling culture and AI-era disconnection, Diana and Lori talk about how younger and older women alike are longing for real tables, real eye contact, and spiritually safe spaces. The heart for homeless women and single moms Lori shares how homelessness—especially for women with children—has been on her heart for 20 years, and her sense that God may lead her to partner in future initiatives that serve this vulnerable population. What actually happens at a R.A.D.I.A.N.T. gathering Why it's not just another networking event, how confidentiality and vulnerability are protected, and why some women have shared stories there they've never shared anywhere else. First steps for the listener who feels stuck in a victim mindset Lori's encouragement for the woman who feels unseen, ashamed, or stuck—and why simply picking up a Bible, praying before you read, and starting somewhere (like Psalm 139 or John) can be a real turning point. Featured Quotes From Lori Bergman: "I spent so much of my life as a victim until I realized that I didn't have to anymore." From Diana S. Rice: "Depression and anxiety are symptoms—your body and your brain trying to talk to you. A disease is a dis-ease. Your body and your brain are trying to talk to you, and it's uncomfortable… so I try to help you get comfortable in the uncomfortable so we can get to the root cause."   Mentioned in This Episode Diana's Work & Links Through the Valley Therapy – Faith-informed online counseling in Florida Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Through the Valley Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching – Trainings, consulting & speaking Website: https://www.transformedmindcc.com Transformed Mind The Holistic Counselor Podcast – YouTube Playlist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@throughthevalleytherapy/playlists youtube.com Podcast Merch Store – Support ad-free, trauma-informed, Christ-centered conversations Merch: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me  Connect with Today's Guest – Lori Bergman Website (Real Estate & Bio): https://loribergman.com Lori Bergman Organizations & Resources Mentioned HOPE South Florida – Faith-based response to homelessness Website: https://hopesouthflorida.org HOPE South Florida+1 Gourmet Garden Café & Juices – Meeting spot for R.A.D.I.A.N.T. gatherings- https://gourmetgardencafe.com/ Address: 6139 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308  Women of Faith – National women's ministry referenced in Lori's story Website: https://www.womenoffaith.com womenoffaith.com+1 Scripture References Psalm 138–139 – God's intimate knowledge, presence, and care. Psalm 139:23–24 – "Search my heart and know my anxious thoughts…" Ecclesiastes – Life as vapor, perspective on seasons and suffering. Gospels / Book of John – Getting to know Jesus and His heart. Ephesians 6 – Spiritual warfare and "not against flesh and blood." If this episode encouraged you, leave a review, share it with a friend, or check out the merch store to help keep the podcast independent, thoughtful, and ad-free.  
• Ep. 100 - Faith, Trauma Healing & Mental Health — A Reflection on Purpose and Renewal 18.03.2026 25min

  Welcome to Episode 100 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS — founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. This Christ-centered, trauma-informed mental health podcast exists to support people navigating trauma, church hurt, anxiety, identity work, nervous system healing, neuroplasticity, and whole-person well-being. This milestone episode is an honest reflection on calling, identity, purpose, and the heart behind the show. In This Episode Diana reflects on: Why This Podcast Exists How a quiet stirring during the pandemic became a global mental-health teaching ministry Why she felt called to reach people beyond one-on-one therapy Why evidence-based + Christ-centered conversations matter right now How Psychology & Faith Integrate Scripture as a grounding foundation How neuroscience affirms biblical truth Practical ways IFS, CBT, and somatic tools support emotional and spiritual renewal Understanding Personality Tools (MBTI + CliftonStrengths) Diana's wiring shapes the warmth, curiosity, and connection listeners feel each week. These tools are not identities or excuses—just mirrors for understanding design and purpose. Explore them here: MBTI Official Assessment: https://www.mbtionline.com Gallup CliftonStrengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx A Dive into Scripture Including: Psalm 139  Proverbs 3:5–6 Proverbs 4:23 Romans 12:2 Galatians 3:28 Plus: Why Ecclesiastes became her companion through depression, identity questions, and seasons of suffering. Episodes & Themes Listeners Have Loved Topics highlighted in this celebration episode include: trauma recovery and nervous system regulation anxiety, burnout, and identity work emotional literacy, boundaries, and somatic healing IFS, parts work, and compassionate inner-world exploration spiritual abuse, Scripture untwisting, and church-hurt recovery teen mental health and trauma narratives body–brain connection and neuroplasticity These themes continue to shape the heart of this community. Practical Tools From This Episode Evidence-based, trauma-informed, and accessible to all: 60-second nervous system reset: inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 6 Thought–Body–Spirit Check-In Gentle IFS "part needs" inquiry CBT cognitive reframe: "What story am I telling myself?" Boundary audit (Proverbs 4:23) Five minutes of stillness and presence Free PDF Resource Holistic Self-Care: A Guide to Natural Wellness for Mental Health Download: https://5a14f5ea-6a63-4c77-bceb-e768c649a5e1.filesusr.com/ugd/c3b403_a8cecb349e72416ab9a689c889818a3d.pdf Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with trauma-informed intentionality. If this podcast has encouraged your growth, your restoration, or your faith, one of the most impactful ways to support the work is through the merch store. Every purchase helps keep this podcast independent, ad-light, and accessible to those navigating trauma, transitions, grief, and spiritual questions. Explore the merch collections: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with a friend. Reviews are one of the most meaningful ways to help others find the show. Connect With Diana Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com/ The Holistic Counselor Podcast (YouTube Playlist) https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo&si=h_A6eN556qSotNfe Instagram | Facebook | YouTube https://linktr.ee/dianasrice  Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health treatment. Listening does not establish a therapist–client relationship. For Florida-based counseling, visit Through the Valley Therapy.  
• Ep. 99 - TMS Explained - A Clear, Compassionate Conversation with PMHNP Jackie Simon 11.03.2026 55min

  This episode and these show notes are for educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical, psychiatric, psychological, or legal advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always consult your own licensed healthcare professional before making decisions about your mental or physical health. Listening to this episode does not create a therapist–client or patient–provider relationship with Diana or Jackie. Episode Summary If you've ever wondered what TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) actually is—beyond the headlines and clinical jargon—this conversation offers a grounded and accessible explanation for anyone curious about mental health, brain science, and integrative care. Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Jacqueline "Jackie" Simon, MS, RN, PMHNP-BC, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who integrates evidence-based care, medication management, deprescribing when appropriate, lifestyle approaches, and TMS treatment in her work with clients in Florida and New York. Together, they break down: • What TMS feels like • How it works on the brain • FDA-approved uses (depression, OCD, smoking cessation, and adolescent depression 15+) • Safety, side effects, and who qualifies • How TMS interacts with medication or micro-tapers • Why neuroplasticity matters for long-term change • Myths, fears, and misunderstandings • What to expect from the evaluation process • How to advocate for yourself inside the mental-health system This episode welcomes listeners from all backgrounds—faith, non-faith, clinical, and non-clinical—with clarity, compassion, and zero stigma. Highlighted Quotes (Verbatim) Jackie Simon, PMHNP-BC: "TMS is transcranial magnetic stimulation, and it is indeed a magnet. It stimulates electrical activity between neurons so they can communicate, release neurotransmitters, and support the areas of the brain involved in mood and functioning." Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP: "If your brain needs support, that does not mean your faith is weak. It means your nervous system has been carrying more than it was ever designed to carry alone." What You'll Learn in This Episode • What a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) does • How TMS works in simple, non-technical language • What a first TMS session and evaluation look like • Common myths about TMS vs. ECT • Expected timeline for improvement and remission • Why TMS is noninvasive and often well-tolerated • Why lifestyle, therapy, and relational support still matter • How to talk to your provider if you're curious about TMS • How to spot red flags and green flags in mental-health care • Free, accessible ways to support brain health today Educational Resources Mentioned These links are shared strictly for educational purposes and are not endorsements or medical recommendations. TMS Device Education • MagVenture — https://www.magventure.com • NeuroStar — https://www.neurostar.com • BrainsWay Deep TMS — https://www.brainsway.com Trusted Medical Overviews • Mayo Clinic: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation • Cleveland Clinic: TMS Therapy Overview • NIH/NIMH: Brain Stimulation Therapies Professional Organization • IMMH (Integrative Medicine for Mental Health) Work With Jackie Simon, PMHNP-BC Rising Tide Psychiatry — Telehealth psychiatric care for clients in Florida and New York, offering: • Medication management • Micro-tapers when appropriate • Holistic, integrative support • Referrals for TMS • TMS services available through her partnership with REKO Behavioral Health (Delray Beach)   Connect With Diana • Through the Valley Therapy • Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching • The Holistic Counselor Podcast (YouTube Playlist) Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show. Secondary Disclaimer This episode is for general education only and is not a substitute for individualized professional advice. Do not make changes to medications, supplements, or mental-health treatment without consulting your licensed provider.
• Ep. 98 - Healing Latina Health: Gut-Brain Connection, Cultural Food & Hormone Balance with ​Health Coach, Naihomy Jerez 04.03.2026 1godz 6min

  What if the foods that shaped your childhood could also heal you? In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Naihomy Jerez—Bronx-raised Dominicana, Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, and host of Let's Be Healthy Latinas: Holistic Wellness with Sazón y Cultura—to unpack how culture, hormones, and gut health intersect with mental wellness. Together they explore:  Why traditional Latina foods aren't the problem—it's about quality, balance & context.  How the gut–brain axis shapes mood, anxiety & focus.  The link between hormones, inflammation, and emotional regulation.  Ancestral nutrition & faith-based healing habits that actually last.  How to drop food shame while honoring your culture and flavor.  Practical micro-habits for busy women—no expensive protocols required.  Key Quotes Diana S. Rice: "Once we realize that we are biology, psychology, and theology all rolled into one, we finally see that mental health, gut health, and spiritual health are inseparable." Naihomy Jerez: "I stopped trying to shrink myself and started nourishing myself — making the foods I love work for me instead of against me."  Resources & Mentions Books Referenced Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself — Dr. William W. Li MD Calm Your Mind with Food — Dr. Uma Naidoo Outlive — Dr. Peter Attia Roar & Next Level — Dr. Stacy Sims The New Menopause — Dr. Mary Claire Haver Podcasts Mentioned Let's Be Healthy Latinas — Naihomy Jerez The Model Health Show — Shawn Stevenson Diary of a CEO — Steven Bartlett The School of Greatness — Lewis Howes Clean Seasoning & Food Brands Badia Organic Adobo 12.75 oz Healthy Rican — Use code naihomy10 for 10% off Loisa Organic Spices & Sazón — Use code naihomyjerez10 for 10% off  About the Guest Naihomy Jerez Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach | Hormone & Gut Health Specialist | Podcast Host  www.naihomyjerez.com  Instagram → @naihomyjerez  About the Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching  The Holistic Counselor Podcast — where faith, science & whole-person healing meet.  Listener Invitation If this conversation spoke to you, please rate and review The Holistic Counselor Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps this free, faith-informed resource reach more people who need hope, tools & truth.
• Ep. 97 - Holistic Psychiatry Beyond Big Pharma: Faith, Culture & Informed Care with Dr. Tzvi Furer 25.02.2026 47min

  In this powerful episode, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Dr. Tzvi Furer, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, a dual-board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist and founder of Palm Tree Psychiatry. Together, they break down myths about psychiatry, explore the importance of deprescribing and informed consent, and discuss how cultural competence and compassion must guide mental-health care. Dr. Furer shares his journey from training at NYU Langone Health / Bellevue Hospital to building a concierge practice that goes beyond the 15-minute "med check." His approach combines psychotherapy, medication management, medical root-cause testing, and narrative medicine—helping patients feel truly seen, not labeled. Diana and Dr. Furer dive into: The difference between psychiatry, psychology, and therapy What "go low and go slow" prescribing really means Why faith, biology, and psychology belong in the same conversation How to advocate for yourself in a rushed or insurance-limited system The role of storytelling and narrative medicine in healing Root-cause assessment, labs, and integrative collaboration with therapists Practical advice for those who can't afford concierge care but still need hope If you've ever felt disillusioned by medication-only psychiatry or you're craving a faith-informed, science-based approach to mental health, this episode will challenge your perspective and leave you encouraged. Referenced Resources & Links Connect with Dr. Tzvi Furer & Palm Tree Psychiatry:  Website: palmtreepsychiatry.com  Alternate: palmtreepsych.com  Facebook: facebook.com/palmtreepsychiatry  Instagram: @palmtreepsychiatry  X: x.com/palmtreepsych  Threads: threads.com/@palmtreepsychiatry  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/palmtreepsychiatry Books & Mentions: The Body Keeps the Score – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Cognitive Therapy: Basics and Beyond – Judith S. Beck, PhD Love's Executioner – Irvin Yalom, MD The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat – Oliver Sacks The 5 Second Rule – Mel Robbins Related Episodes on The Holistic Counselor Podcast:  Ep. 11 – Unveiling Cultural Competence with Dorothy Chatelier-Orelus, APRN  Ep. 18 – Radical Truths in Mental Health with Dr. Roger McFillin  Ep. 20 – From Pills to Purpose with Dr. Nina Joy Mena  Ep. 67 – Psychiatric Deprescribing & Women's Mental Health with Dr. Amy O'Donnell Episode Highlights Time Topic 03:00 Dr. Furer's journey from NYU Langone to Palm Tree Psychiatry 08:00 Cultural competence and working with diverse communities 13:00 Psychiatry vs. psychology vs. therapy explained 18:00 "Go low and go slow" – rethinking medication management 19:00 Root-cause care and medical workups in mental health 24:00 What concierge psychiatry really means 27:00 Narrative medicine and the power of story 32:00 Deprescribing and self-advocacy in the system 39:00 Practical books and tools for hope and healing 44:00 Final encouragement: take your mental health seriously About the Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP is the founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. As host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana bridges faith, neuroscience, and whole-person healing through authentic, stigma-breaking conversations with experts and advocates.  Join the Movement If this episode encouraged you, please rate, review, and share it with a friend or colleague. Your support helps others find faith-integrated, evidence-based mental-health content that brings hope and healing. Follow Diana on:  Instagram | @theholisticcounselorpodcast
• Ep. 96 - Talking Politics Without Losing Your Mind—or Your Relationships | Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S, Author of The And Way: Assertive Peacemaking in a Divided World 18.02.2026 52min

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