The Holistic Counselor

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  Ep. 126 - Christian Therapy & Trauma Healing: Spiritual Abuse, Shame, and Identity in Christ with Vanessa Bentley, LPC-MHSP 16.09.2026 1h 26min

  What does it really mean to heal when faith, trauma, shame, and identity are all tangled together? In Episode 126 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS, welcomes Vanessa Bentley, LPC-MHSP, licensed professional counselor, author, speaker, and host of The Work of Being Human podcast, for a deeply honest conversation about Christian therapy, trauma healing, spiritual abuse, church hurt, shame, faith deconstruction, identity in Christ, emotional healing, and what it means to face reality without denial, deception, or distortion. Vanessa's story begins in the arts. Before becoming a psychotherapist, she earned her B.F.A. in Musical Theater from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and spent ten years working in theater, film, television, and print modeling. Her work took her from the professional stages of Manhattan to the historic stages of Europe, including a European tour of West Side Story in the role of Maria. But this conversation goes far beyond credentials. Diana and Vanessa talk about what happens when faith is inherited as rules instead of formed as identity, when religion becomes performance instead of relationship, and when trauma, shame, and suffering are met with spiritual bypassing instead of truth, compassion, and healing. This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered: What is true? Who am I really? Where is God in my suffering? Why do I feel stuck even after therapy, prayer, or trying to "do all the right things"? Can Christian faith and mental health counseling work together in an ethical, grounded, and healing way? How do I stop performing and begin becoming honest, human, and whole? Vanessa shares how her own life, failures, spiritual disillusionment, therapy, and return to Christ shaped her work as a therapist. Together, Diana and Vanessa discuss high-control religion, spiritual abuse, shame, guilt, fear, agnosticism, atheism, confession, redemption, psychology, theology, relationship repair, and why healing must be built on truth. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful idea: mental health is not just symptom management. It is learning how to live in reality, tell the truth, and become whole. Why This Conversation Matters Many people are searching for healing, but they are afraid. Afraid of being judged. Afraid therapy will pull them away from God. Afraid their church will tell them to just pray harder. Afraid their questions mean they are losing faith. Afraid their trauma means something is wrong with them. Afraid to tell the truth because shame has convinced them they are beyond repair. This episode creates space for a different kind of conversation. Diana and Vanessa do not reduce healing to a diagnosis, a coping skill, a church answer, or a self-help phrase. Instead, they explore the deeper work of becoming honest before God, self, and others. This conversation honors both clinical wisdom and Christian faith. It invites listeners to consider that mental health is not only about feeling better, but about learning how to live in truth, reality, humility, love, and grace. In This Episode, Diana and Vanessa Discuss Vanessa's journey from musical theater, film, television, and modeling into psychotherapy How the performing arts shaped Vanessa's understanding of story, identity, and humanity Why many therapists are shaped by their own pain before they ever enter the classroom The difference between inherited faith and investigated faith What happens when religion gives rules but not identity Spiritual abuse, church hurt, and high-control faith environments Why questions can become part of spiritual maturity The difference between belief and identity in Christ How shame, guilt, and fear can become normalized Why healing requires both truth and compassion The danger of confusing trauma with "God's will" Why Christian therapy must be honest about suffering, sin, grace, and redemption How therapy can create a safe place for confession, accountability, and repair Jesus as Logos: truth, reality, reason, and the Word made flesh Why mental health and theology intersect for people of faith How denial, deception, and distortion keep people stuck Why anxiety, depression, and emotional pain can be signals that something deeper needs attention What it means to face reality and embrace humanity Powerful Quotes from Diana S. Rice "I love when someone can hold creativity, clinical wisdom, faith, suffering, beauty, and humanity in the same room." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS "But underneath all that, I think many of us are really asking, what is true? Who am I really? Where is God in my suffering? And how do I stop performing long enough to become honest, human, and whole?" — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS "All the signals are signaling out. It's what you're gonna do with it." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Powerful Quotes from Vanessa Bentley "Because therapists are not made in the classroom, they're made in the fire." — Vanessa Bentley, LPC-MHSP "When you have belief, but not identity, you will always, always be scratching at the surface of what's possible in your relationship with God." — Vanessa Bentley, LPC-MHSP "Mental health is your ability to be in reality without denial, deception, or distortion, and thrive in that place." — Vanessa Bentley, LPC-MHSP Key Takeaways 1. Healing must be built on truth. Vanessa defines mental health as the ability to live in reality without denial, deception, or distortion. For people of faith, this means healing is not about pretending, performing, or avoiding pain. It is about learning to tell the truth with humility, compassion, and courage. 2. Rules are not the same as identity. Faith that is only built on rules can create fear, shame, and performance. Diana and Vanessa explore how true healing requires a deeper foundation: knowing who you are in relationship with God. 3. Questions are not always rebellion. For many people, questioning inherited faith is not about rejecting God. It may be part of moving from a borrowed belief system into a more honest, tested, and mature faith. 4. Spiritual bypassing can keep people stuck. Saying "just pray harder" or "Jesus fixes everything" may sound spiritual, but it can also avoid the real work of grief, trauma, confession, nervous system healing, relational repair, and emotional honesty. 5. Shame heals in truth and relationship. Shame grows in hiding. Healing often begins when we can bring our real story into the light with God, safe people, and sometimes a trained therapist who can help us face reality without condemnation. 6. Christian therapy can be clinically grounded and spiritually honest. This episode does not flatten therapy into self-help or faith into clichés. It invites a deeper integration of theology, psychology, biology, story, and embodied healing. Listener Questions This Episode Helps Answer Can Christian therapy help with trauma? Yes. Christian therapy can help people process trauma, shame, grief, anxiety, and relationship wounds while honoring faith, Scripture, and the whole person. The best care is ethical, clinically grounded, and never uses faith to shame or silence a person's pain. What is spiritual abuse? Spiritual abuse can happen when faith, Scripture, authority, or religious systems are used to control, shame, manipulate, silence questions, or disconnect people from God, self, or safe community. What is the difference between church hurt and losing faith? Church hurt can create confusion, grief, anger, and distrust. But questioning harmful systems does not automatically mean someone has lost faith. Sometimes it means they are trying to separate God from the wounds caused by people or institutions. Why do I feel shame even when I believe in God? Many people intellectually believe they are loved by God but still carry emotional wounds, trauma responses, fear, or a performance-based identity. Healing often involves moving from belief alone into embodied identity, truth, safety, and grace. Can therapy and Christian faith work together? Yes, when done with wisdom and ethical care. Therapy can help people face reality, understand their story, process pain, take responsibility, repair relationships, and live more honestly before God and others. Books and Resources Mentioned Vanessa Bentley's Website https://www.vanessabentley.co The Work of Being Human Podcast with Vanessa Bentley Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-work-of-being-human/id1555914519 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4OSzahM97510fClqYs3ZYt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVanessaBentley Vanessa on Instagram @vanessathetherapist: https://www.instagram.com/vanessathetherapist/ @theworkofbeinghuman: https://www.instagram.com/theworkofbeinghuman/ The Toolbox: The Tools We Need to Build Relationships and Repair Them When They Break by Vanessa Londino Vanessa's Book Page: https://www.vanessabentley.co/author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Toolbox-Tools-Build-Relationships-Repair/dp/1736381318 Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis HarperCollins: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/mere-christianity-c-s-lewis Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Mere-Christianity-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652926 The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck Simon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Road-Less-Traveled-Timeless-Edition/M-Scott-Peck/9780743243155 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Road-Less-Traveled-Psychology-Traditional/dp/0671250671 Stages of Faith: The Psychology of Human Development and the Quest for Meaning by James W. Fowler HarperCollins: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/stages-of-faith-james-w-fowler Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stages-Faith-Psychology-Development-Meaning/dp/0060628669 What a Friend We Have in Jesus Hymnary: https://hymnary.org/text/what_a_friend_we_have_in_jesus_all_our_s Books Vanessa Mentioned Reading During Her Search for Truth These were discussed as part of Vanessa's personal search, questioning, and faith journey. They are listed for context, not as blanket recommendations. God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens https://www.amazon.com/God-Not-Great-Religion-Everything/dp/0446697966 The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins https://www.amazon.com/God-Delusion-Richard-Dawkins/dp/0618918248 The End of Faith by Sam Harris https://www.amazon.com/End-Faith-Religion-Terror-Future/dp/0393327655 Scripture References Reflected in the Conversation John 1:1–14 — Jesus as the Word, Logos, truth, and reality made flesh Romans 8:28 — God working all things together for good Exodus 3:14 — "I AM WHO I AM" 1 John 4:8 — God is love James 5:16 — Confession, prayer, and healing Matthew 7:7–8 — Ask, seek, knock Ecclesiastes — Wisdom, searching, suffering, meaning, and the limits of life apart from God About Vanessa Bentley, LPC-MHSP Vanessa Bentley is a licensed professional counselor, LPC-MHSP, author, speaker, podcast host, and therapist serving Nashville and the broader Middle Tennessee community. Before becoming a psychotherapist, Vanessa earned her B.F.A. in Musical Theater from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and spent ten years working in theater, film, television, and print modeling. Her work as an actress took her from the professional stages of Manhattan to the historic stages of Europe, including a European tour of West Side Story in the role of Maria. After transitioning into counseling, Vanessa earned her M.A. in Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. She began her clinical work in a community nonprofit, serving underprivileged clients throughout Middle Tennessee. Her work later expanded into teaching and lecturing counseling students, divinity students, and clergy on the intersection of psychology and theology. Vanessa is the author of The Toolbox: The Tools We Need to Build Relationships and Repair Them When They Break and the host of The Work of Being Human podcast. Her message is clear and deeply needed: mental health requires facing reality and embracing our humanity. Connect with Vanessa Website: https://www.vanessabentley.co Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-work-of-being-human/id1555914519 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVanessaBentley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessathetherapist/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theworkofbeinghuman/ Book: https://www.vanessabentley.co/author About The Holistic Counselor Podcast The Holistic Counselor Podcast is where faith, psychology, and whole-person wellness meet. Hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS, founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching, this podcast offers grounded and compassionate conversations for anyone seeking emotional healing, mental clarity, spiritual growth, and healthier relationships. Some conversations reflect Diana's Christian perspective and theology. Others center on clinical insight, cultural context, holistic wellness, or lived experience. All episodes share the same intention: reducing stigma, elevating mental-health literacy, honoring diverse stories, and supporting whole-person transformation. Connect with Diana Through the Valley Therapy: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com The Holistic Counselor Podcast: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/holistic-counselor-podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holistic-counselor/id1732149496 Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching: https://www.transformedmindcc.com Content Note This episode includes honest discussion of spiritual abuse, shame, trauma, sexual sin, abortion, faith deconstruction, and emotional suffering. Please listen with care and seek support from a licensed mental health professional, pastor, spiritual director, or trusted support person if needed. Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health counseling, medical care, crisis support, legal advice, or spiritual direction. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call or text 988 in the United States or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are seeking therapy, please consult a licensed mental health professional in your state or region. Thank you for listening. Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who may be wrestling with faith, trauma, identity, shame, church hurt, spiritual abuse, or the work of becoming more honest, human, and whole. And remember: trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind.
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  Ep. 125 - How to Heal After Divorce: Grief, Identity Loss & Emotional Recovery with Shirley Barthelemy, MS, LMHC, LPC, CAP 09.09.2026 1h 1min

  Divorce recovery is about more than ending a marriage. It is about healing grief, rebuilding self-worth, restoring emotional health, processing identity loss, and learning how to move forward after one of life's most difficult transitions. In Episode 125 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana Rice, LMHC, sits down with divorce recovery specialist Shirley Barthelemy, MS, LMHC, LPC, CAP, to discuss emotional healing after divorce, grief, faith, attachment wounds, people-pleasing patterns, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and practical tools for rebuilding confidence and finding hope again. Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal experience, Shirley shares how her own journey through divorce inspired her to create the HER Divorce Recovery Coaching Program, a structured framework designed to help women heal emotionally, renew their minds, strengthen their faith, and rediscover who they are beyond the pain of relationship loss. Together, Diana and Shirley explore the hidden mental health effects of divorce, the stigma many women experience within faith communities, the importance of emotional honesty, healthy boundaries, self-care, nervous system awareness, and why healing requires more than simply "moving on." Whether you're currently navigating separation, healing from a divorce that happened years ago, supporting someone you love, or simply interested in emotional wellness, resilience, personal growth, and the intersection of faith and mental health, this conversation offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and hope for the journey ahead. In This Episode • How to heal after divorce • The emotional stages of grief after divorce • Identity loss and rebuilding self-worth • Depression, anxiety, shame, and emotional overwhelm • Faith, forgiveness, and healing after divorce • Attachment styles and people-pleasing patterns • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and renewing the mind • Healthy coping skills during major life transitions • Emotional regulation and nervous system awareness • The importance of community, support, and accountability • Red flags that unresolved relationship wounds may still be affecting current relationships • Why healing is a journey—not a quick fix • How to move from surviving to thriving Memorable Quotes "You started understanding how to respond in wisdom instead of reacting in emotion." — Diana Rice, LMHC "The relationship ended, but that doesn't define who you are. It's just part of your story, not your entire story." — Shirley Barthelemy, MS, LMHC, LPC, CAP Who This Episode Is For This episode is for you if:  You're currently going through a separation or divorce  You're struggling with grief, shame, anger, loneliness, or uncertainty  You're wondering how to rebuild your confidence and identity  You're navigating divorce within a faith community  You're carrying emotional wounds from a past relationship  You're supporting a friend or loved one through divorce  You're looking for practical tools to help you heal and move forward  You're interested in mental health, faith, personal growth, and emotional wellness About Our Guest Shirley Barthelemy, MS, LMHC, LPC, CAP is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Addiction Professional, Certified Life Coach, and Founder of Holistic Lady Counseling Services. For more than 10 years, she has served individuals, couples, and families within the mental health and substance use field. Today, she specializes in Divorce Recovery Coaching, helping women navigate grief, emotional healing, confidence rebuilding, self-worth restoration, and personal growth after divorce. She is the creator of the HER Divorce Recovery Coaching Program, a comprehensive framework designed to help women Heal, Grow, and Thrive. Resources Mentioned Holistic Lady Counseling Services https://holisticladycounseling.com Learn More About Shirley Barthelemy https://holisticladycounseling.com/official-about-page/ DivorceCare Divorce Recovery Support Groups https://www.divorcecare.org Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com The Holistic Counselor Podcast https://pod.link/1732149496 Connect with Diana Rice Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Founder, Through the Valley Therapy Founder, Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Host, The Holistic Counselor Podcast Enjoyed This Episode? If this conversation encouraged you, challenged you, or reminded you that healing is possible, please subscribe, follow, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who may be struggling with grief, heartbreak, divorce, identity loss, relationship trauma, or emotional healing. Your reviews help these conversations reach people who feel isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. Together, we can remind others that they are not alone and that healing is possible. Until next time, remember: you are fearfully and wonderfully made.  
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  Ep. 124 - Therapy in a Time of Labels: ADHD, Autism, Self-Diagnosis & Finding Your Identity Beyond a Diagnosis with Dr. Alyssa Kerrigan 02.09.2026 1h 2min

  What happens when mental health awareness meets social media algorithms? In this thought-provoking episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Dr. Alyssa Kerrigan, Licensed Psychologist, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), and founder of Peace of Mind Testing and Therapy, to explore one of the most important conversations happening in mental health today: self-diagnosis, therapy culture, psychological testing, neurodiversity, social media, and identity. From TikTok videos about ADHD and autism to viral discussions about anxiety, trauma, executive functioning, and neurodivergence, more people than ever are seeking answers about their mental health. But how do we balance awareness with accuracy? Validation with discernment? Understanding with identity? Together, Diana and Dr. Kerrigan discuss why so many people turn to social media for mental health answers, the role of comprehensive psychological evaluations, how diagnostic labels can both help and hinder growth, and why understanding ourselves should lead to greater freedom—not greater limitation. Whether you're a therapist, parent, educator, student, faith leader, or someone navigating your own mental health journey, this episode offers practical insight, compassion, and hope. In This Episode We Explore • The impact of TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, AI, and social media on mental health awareness • Why ADHD, autism, anxiety, trauma, and neurodivergence content is exploding online • The difference between self-diagnosis and professional psychological evaluation • How psychological testing can provide clarity, validation, accommodations, and support • Why many women and adults are being diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life • The role of culture, race, family systems, and lived experience in mental health assessment • How labels can become empowering tools instead of limiting identities • The importance of digital literacy and critical thinking in the age of algorithms • Parenting strategies for raising children in a social media-driven world • How therapists can balance validation, resilience-building, and personal growth Memorable Takeaways "Understanding yourself should lead to greater freedom, greater self-compassion, and greater possibility." A diagnosis is not the end of your story. Psychological evaluations are not designed to put people into boxes. They are designed to provide clarity, uncover strengths, identify challenges, and create a roadmap for support. Social media can offer validation and community, but it should never replace a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified mental health professional. The goal is not to become your diagnosis. The goal is to better understand yourself so you can move forward with confidence, self-awareness, and appropriate support. About Dr. Alyssa Kerrigan Dr. Alyssa Kerrigan is a Licensed Psychologist, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), and founder of Peace of Mind Testing and Therapy in Wellington, Florida. She specializes in psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children, teens, and adults, helping individuals gain clarity regarding ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning disabilities, executive functioning challenges, mood disorders, and neurodivergent presentations. Dr. Kerrigan is passionate about helping individuals understand how they learn, think, process information, and navigate the world. Through evidence-based assessment and compassionate care, she empowers clients to recognize their strengths, build confidence, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their personal, academic, and professional goals. Connect with Dr. Alyssa Kerrigan Website: https://www.peaceofmindtestingandtherapy.com Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alyssa-kerrigan-wellington-fl/1058709 Connect with Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com The Holistic Counselor Podcast https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/holistic-counselor-podcast Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holistic-counselor/id1732149496 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/throughthevalleytherapy Diana specializes in anxiety, trauma recovery, perfectionism, faith and identity struggles, religious trauma, nervous system regulation, resilience, neuroplasticity, and whole-person healing through an integrative approach that blends neuroscience, evidence-based therapy, and faith-informed care. Resources Mentioned DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)  https://www.parentcenterhub.org/iep-overview/ Neurodiversity-Affirming Care https://www.usa.edu/blog/neurodiversity-affirming-care-what-does-it-mean-for-therapy/ Digital Literacy and Social Media Awareness https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy  CommonSense Media (Parent Resource) https://www.commonsensemedia.org Understood.org (Learning Differences, ADHD, Dyslexia) https://www.understood.org Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) https://chadd.org Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) https://autisticadvocacy.org American Psychological Association https://www.apa.org National Institute of Mental Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov If This Episode Helped You Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend, parent, teacher, therapist, pastor, or family member. Every conversation helps reduce stigma, increase understanding, and remind people that they are more than a diagnosis. Remember: You are not your label. You are not your diagnosis. You are a whole person with strengths, challenges, gifts, and a story still being written. And wherever you are on your journey, I hope today's conversation encourages you to keep learning, keep growing, and keep moving forward.
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  Ep. 123 - Why Do I Keep Repeating the Same Patterns? Childhood Trauma, Emotional Growth & Authentic Relationships with Mark Levinsky, LMHC 26.08.2026 58min

  Why do we keep repeating the same relationship patterns, emotional reactions, and self-sabotaging behaviors—even when we understand where they come from? In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP welcomes Mark Levinsky, MS, LMHC, licensed psychotherapist, life coach, Certified Instructor with The REAL Courses, and founder of Intentional Living Coaching & Counseling Services. Together they explore childhood trauma, family-of-origin influences, emotional maturity, vulnerability, shame, men's mental health, addiction recovery, inner child work, experiential learning, and the connection between faith, psychology, and personal transformation. If you've ever wondered: Why do I keep repeating the same relationship patterns? Why do I feel emotionally stuck? How does childhood trauma affect adulthood? How can I stop reacting and start responding? Why is vulnerability so difficult? What is experiential therapy or experiential learning? How can faith and psychology work together? This conversation offers practical insights and hope. Mark shares how experiential growth work transformed his own life after years of traditional therapy and discusses why understanding our story is important—but often not enough to create lasting change. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of emotional growth, self-awareness, relationship patterns, trauma recovery, community, belonging, forgiveness, and the lifelong process of becoming more fully who God created us to be. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Childhood Trauma & Family Systems How childhood experiences shape adult relationships Family-of-origin patterns Attachment wounds Core beliefs and self-worth Understanding emotional triggers Emotional Growth & Mental Health Emotional maturity Vulnerability and shame Self-awareness Emotional intelligence Emotional sobriety Faith, Psychology & Transformation Personal responsibility Community and belonging Forgiveness Spiritual growth Why perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18) Experiential Growth What experiential learning is How action creates transformation Why insight alone isn't enough Building courage and resilience POWERFUL QUOTES Mark Levinsky, LMHC "To love and be loved. They're starving to be loved, and they want to love." "Understanding is the booby prize." "With action, I believe deeper growth occurs." "The main thing is not to isolate." "Vulnerability is strength." Diana S. Rice, LMHC "Perfect love casts out fear." (1 John 4:18) "We're trying to understand. It's not blaming." "Learning how to become the parent you needed." "The lessons become blessings. The wounds become wisdom." RESOURCES Mark Levinsky, LMHC Website: https://marklevinsky.com The REAL Courses Official Website: https://therealcourses.com Instructor Directory: https://therealcourses.com/instructors Adlerian Psychology North American Society of Adlerian Psychology: https://www.alfredadler.org Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com Related Episode Episode 103: Why Men Struggle With Emotions with Jon Waller, LMHC YouTube: https://youtu.be/NR_bKRvPc3w?si=4cVJ2y44HkD889LN ABOUT THE HOLISTIC COUNSELOR PODCAST The Holistic Counselor Podcast is where faith, science, and holistic healing intersect. Hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, the podcast features therapists, physicians, attorneys, pastors, authors, educators, wellness professionals, and advocates exploring mental health, trauma recovery, neuroplasticity, relationships, emotional wellness, faith, personal growth, and whole-person healing. The mission is to challenge stigma, foster meaningful conversations, and provide practical tools that help people grow emotionally, mentally, physically, relationally, and spiritually. SUPPORT THE SHOW If this episode encouraged you:  Leave a review  Share the episode with a friend  Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform  Visit our merch store: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/
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  Ep. 122 - Can Christians Have Anxiety? Christian Mental Health, Panic Attacks, Nervous System Healing & Finding Peace with Melissa Fisher, LMHC 19.08.2026 55min

  What happens when you genuinely love Jesus… but still struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, overthinking, intrusive thoughts, chronic stress, or emotional exhaustion? In this deeply honest and clinically grounded episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Christian therapist and author Melissa Fisher, LMHC, to explore the intersection of Christian faith, anxiety, trauma, nervous system regulation, burnout, perfectionism, emotional healing, and mental health in the church. Melissa shares her personal story of navigating military life, repeated relocations, panic attacks, self-doubt, and what she describes as a "dark night of the soul," while learning how faith, therapy, neuroscience, breathwork, and emotional healing can work together instead of against one another. Together, Diana and Melissa unpack some of the questions millions of Christians silently wrestle with every day: Can Christians have anxiety? Is anxiety a sin? Why do I still feel anxious if I trust God? What does the Bible actually say about anxiety and peace? Can prayer and therapy work together? How do trauma and chronic stress affect the nervous system? What is high-functioning anxiety? How do perfectionism and people-pleasing fuel anxiety? Can someone intellectually trust God while their body still carries fear? How do we tell the difference between God's voice, wisdom, fear, hypervigilance, and trauma-driven anxiety? This episode also explores: Christian anxiety and panic attacks Nervous system dysregulation Trauma and emotional healing Church hurt and spiritual abuse High-control religion and guilt Breathwork and neuroscience Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Neuroplasticity and rewiring the brain The mind-body connection Faith and mental health Women's mental health and burnout Military family stress Rest, Sabbath, and slowing down Overstimulation, doomscrolling, and social media anxiety Somatic and body-based healing approaches Why emotions are signals—not failures One of the most powerful moments of the conversation comes when Melissa shares: "It's never labeled as a sin in the Bible." — Melissa Fisher, LMHC And Diana reflects: "I've started seeing anxiety less as an identity and more as a signal." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Whether you're a therapist, ministry leader, caregiver, military spouse, trauma survivor, person of faith, or simply exhausted from carrying too much for too long, this conversation offers practical tools, honest reflection, and compassionate insight for anyone trying to find peace in an overwhelmed world. About Melissa Fisher, LMHC Melissa Fisher, LMHC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Vancouver, Washington, specializing in trauma, anxiety, spiritual formation, and Christian mental health. She has over two decades of experience serving in Christian youth, women's, military, and young adult ministries. Melissa is also the author of Jesus for the Anxious: 8 Weeks of Practicing Peace to Calm Your Worry and Fear, published by Revell, an imprint of Baker Publishing Group. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Melissa Fisher Counseling https://www.melissafishercounseling.com/ Melissa Fisher's Book: Jesus for the Anxious https://www.melissafishercounseling.com/book One Minute Pause App https://wildatheart.org/pause Breathly App https://breathly.app/ Learn More About Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/ Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com/ Support The Holistic Counselor Podcast + Merch Store https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ About The Holistic Counselor Podcast The Holistic Counselor Podcast is where faith, science, and holistic healing intersect. Hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, the show explores trauma, neuroscience, relationships, nervous system healing, Christian mental health, emotional wellness, and integrative healing through thoughtful conversations with therapists, physicians, authors, advocates, and wellness experts. Loved This Episode? Please rate, review, and share this episode with someone navigating anxiety, burnout, overthinking, panic, or emotional exhaustion. Your reviews help more people discover these honest and healing conversations. And as always… Trust in the Lord. Guard your heart. Renew your mind.
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  Ep. 121 - How to Heal Betrayal Trauma, Porn Addiction, and Rebuild Trust in Relationships with Brannon Patrick, LCSW & Tyler Patrick, LMFT 12.08.2026 47min

  What happens when two brothers both become therapists—and dedicate their lives to helping people heal from betrayal trauma, pornography addiction, shame, secrecy, broken trust, and relationship pain? In this deeply honest and powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana sits down with Brannon Patrick, LCSW and Tyler Patrick, LMFT of Therapy Brothers for a raw, compassionate conversation about addiction recovery, betrayal trauma, faith, emotional healing, and what it actually takes to rebuild trust after secrecy and infidelity. Together, they explore why betrayal trauma can feel like PTSD, how shame and secrecy fuel addiction cycles, and why many people struggling with pornography addiction are not "bad people" but hurting humans carrying unresolved pain, loneliness, and disconnection. The conversation also dives into purity culture, high-control religion, emotional safety, grief, attachment wounds, and the healing process for both individuals and couples. Diana, Brannon, and Tyler also discuss Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, DBT, EFT, accountability, self-acceptance, faith deconstruction, and the importance of moving beyond symptom management into true root-cause healing. This episode is filled with practical insight, psychoeducation, hope, humor, honesty, and real conversations many people are secretly searching for but are often too afraid to ask out loud. In This Episode We Discuss: Betrayal trauma and why it can feel like PTSD Porn addiction in both men and women Rebuilding trust after infidelity and secrecy Shame, guilt, and emotional coping Purity culture and high-control religion Healthy sexuality and sexual self-acceptance Faith deconstruction, reconstruction, and spiritual grief Emotional safety and attachment wounds Why accountability matters in recovery The role of grief in relationship healing Root-cause healing vs symptom management Internal Family Systems (IFS) EMDR trauma therapy DBT and emotional regulation EFT and attachment-based couples work Healing through honesty, humility, and connection Memorable Quotes "Protection without the education causes a problem." — Tyler Patrick, LMFT "We don't have sexual self-acceptance, we don't have adequate sex education, but what we do have is the box that you're supposed to fit it in." — Brannon Patrick, LCSW "My sacred text, the Bible, is a mirror—not a weapon." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP Resources & Links Mentioned Therapy Brothers Official Website https://therapybrothers.org/ Therapy Brothers Special Listener Page https://therapybrothers.org/the-holistic-counselor  Reclaim Your Heart Healing Journey https://reclaimyourheart.org/ Therapy Modalities Discussed Internal Family Systems (IFS) Official IFS Institute https://ifs-institute.com/ Dr. Tori Olds – IFS Explained https://youtu.be/tNA5qTTxFFA?si=CCCbRhwKGjn1hH2H  EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) EMDR International Association https://www.emdria.org/ DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Behavioral Tech – DBT Information https://behavioraltech.org/resources/faqs/dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt/ EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy https://iceeft.com/ Faith Development Resource Mentioned Fowler's Stages of Faith Development PDF Overview https://www.leaderresources.org/assets/images/Youth/Fowler_FaithDev_chart.pdf   Additional Topics Mentioned Betrayal Trauma Recovery Addiction Recovery Faith Deconstruction & Reconstruction Shame Resilience Attachment Theory Emotional Regulation Trauma Healing Healthy Masculinity Relationship Repair Accountability and Authenticity About the Guests Brannon Patrick, LCSW and Tyler Patrick, LMFT are licensed therapists, brothers, educators, and founders of Therapy Brothers. With over 20 years of experience each in betrayal trauma recovery, sexual addiction treatment, and relationship healing, they help individuals and couples move from shame, secrecy, addiction, and disconnection into honesty, accountability, emotional safety, and authentic connection. Their work focuses on helping people heal the deeper root causes beneath addiction and betrayal—not just manage symptoms. If this episode encouraged you, challenged you, or helped you feel less alone, please take a moment to rate, review, and share The Holistic Counselor Podcast. Your support helps more people find these conversations around faith, trauma, mental health, relationships, and holistic healing.   And don't forget to check out the merch store: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/
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  Ep. 120 - Gut Health, Anxiety, Brain Fog & Functional Nutrition: The Gut-Brain Connection Explained with Dr. Annie Lin 05.08.2026 58min

  Can gut health affect anxiety, depression, inflammation, brain fog, mood swings, and nervous system regulation? In this deeply thoughtful and grounded conversation, Diana S. Rice sits down with Dr. Annie Lin—Assistant Professor of Nutrition at Nova Southeastern University and functional nutrition practitioner—to explore the powerful connection between nutrition, mental health, trauma, inflammation, and the gut-brain axis. Raised in a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)-influenced household and trained in both clinical nutrition and functional medicine, Dr. Lin bridges ancient healing wisdom with modern science to help people better understand whole-person health in a way that is practical, culturally sensitive, and evidence-informed. Together, Diana and Dr. Lin discuss: The gut-brain connection explained in simple terms How gut health impacts anxiety, depression, mood, and brain fog Chronic stress, trauma, inflammation, and nervous system dysregulation Blood sugar instability and emotional health Functional nutrition vs. diet culture Nutritional psychiatry and integrative mental health Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, Tai Chi, cupping therapy, and Hijama Why food is more than calories—it's information for the body Mindful eating, hydration, sleep, and nervous system support The importance of slowing down in today's fast-paced culture How healing can become nourishing instead of fear-based or shame-based ACE scores, childhood trauma, and whole-person healing Cultural wisdom, immigrant family experiences, and holistic wellness traditions Why healing should be personalized and not one-size-fits-all This episode also explores the importance of honoring wisdom from different cultures while remaining thoughtful, discerning, and grounded in science. If you've been struggling with stress, burnout, digestive symptoms, emotional exhaustion, anxiety, inflammation, or feeling disconnected from your body, this episode offers practical insights and hopeful encouragement for supporting your mental and physical health in a more holistic and sustainable way. Memorable Quotes from the Episode "Food is not just energy, it's information." — Dr. Annie Lin "Healing doesn't have to be so dramatic. It's just slowing down, feeling safer, feeling steadier, feeling more supported." — Dr. Annie Lin "I'm teaching you how to critically think." — Diana S. Rice "Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human." — Diana S. Rice About Dr. Annie Lin Dr. Annie Lin is: Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition at the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN) Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (FMCP) Certified in Cupping Therapy / Hijama Born and raised in New York in a Traditional Chinese Medicine-influenced household, Dr. Lin combines functional nutrition, integrative medicine, cultural wisdom, and modern science to support personalized, whole-person health. Connect with Dr. Annie Lin: Dr. Annie Lin LinkedIn Resources, Organizations & Topics Mentioned Metabolic Mind Nova Southeastern University – Department of Nutrition The Holistic Counselor Podcast Fruitful Field ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Information – CDC National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – Acupuncture National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – Tai Chi Traditional Chinese Medicine Overview – Cleveland Clinic Topics explored throughout this episode include: Gut-brain axis, functional nutrition, nutritional psychiatry, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, Hijama, trauma and the nervous system, inflammation and mental health, mindful eating, neuroplasticity, blood sugar regulation, immigrant family experiences, holistic healing, integrative mental health, and whole-person wellness. If this episode encouraged you, helped you think differently, or gave you practical tools for healing, please share it with someone you love and leave a review. Reviews help more people find conversations surrounding faith, science, mental health, and holistic healing. Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical or mental health care. Please consult your licensed healthcare providers regarding your personal health needs.
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  Ep. 119 - Breaking Generational Trauma, Faith, Identity & Holistic Healing w/ Author & Storyteller Angela Golden Bryan 29.07.2026 57min

  What happens when storytelling, faith, cultural identity, and holistic wellness come together in one honest conversation? In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice sits down with Angela Golden Bryan — Amazon bestselling author, filmmaker, speaker, wellness advocate, and founder of Fireburn Heritage — for a deeply authentic conversation about generational trauma, healing, identity, emotional wellness, storytelling, church hurt, holistic health, and breaking unhealthy cycles. Diana and Angela first met years ago during a completely different season of life while both working in the entertainment and acting world. Now reunited through purpose-driven work, the two explore how our stories, belief systems, family histories, faith experiences, and even the lies we internalize can shape our emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health. Angela shares the powerful history behind the 1878 Fireburn Revolt in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, including the deeply personal discovery that her own great-great-grandmother survived the historical uprising. Together, Diana and Angela discuss how intergenerational trauma, cultural identity, forgiveness, nervous system survival patterns, and community impact the healing journey. This episode also dives into: Generational and intergenerational trauma Identity confusion and cultural belonging Faith and mental health stigma in Christian and BIPOC communities Church hurt and spiritual bypassing Anxiety, burnout, depression, and emotional exhaustion The connection between storytelling and healing How lies and limiting beliefs shape mental health Holistic wellness and mind-body-spirit healing Healthy community, accountability, and emotional support Nervous system regulation and lifestyle healing practices Nutrition, sleep, movement, and sustainable habit change Why healing requires both truth and compassion Angela also opens up about her own health journey that inspired her newest book, Treasure Your Temple, and how holistic wellness, nutrition, faith, and intentional community became part of her healing process. About Angela Golden Bryan Angela Golden Bryan is an Amazon bestselling author, filmmaker, speaker, certified life coach with the John Maxwell Team, and founder of Fireburn Heritage, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and amplifying untold Caribbean stories while contributing to cultural identity, legacy, and generational transformation. She holds master's degrees in Counseling Psychology and Practical Theology and is also a certified holistic health practitioner through Hippocrates Wellness with specialized training in plant-based nutrition and whole-person wellness. Her work focuses on helping individuals break generational patterns, reclaim identity, strengthen faith, and pursue healing across mind, body, and spirit through storytelling, education, wellness advocacy, and cultural preservation. Resources & Links Mentioned Angela Golden Bryan Fireburn Heritage Website Angela Golden Bryan LinkedIn Angela Golden Bryan Instagram Fireburn Heritage Instagram Fireburn Heritage Facebook Treasure Your Temple on Amazon Resources Mentioned During the Episode Celebrate Recovery Grace Alliance GriefShare DivorceCare Dr. Caroline Leaf Hippocrates Wellness Connect with Diana S. Rice Through the Valley Therapy Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching The Holistic Counselor Podcast YouTube Playlist If this episode encouraged you, helped you feel seen, or gave you practical tools for healing, please take a moment to follow, review, and share The Holistic Counselor Podcast with someone who may need it today. Your reviews and shares truly help us continue breaking mental health stigma and reaching more people with conversations centered on faith, science, storytelling, and holistic healing. You can also support the podcast and grab merch here: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Merch Store
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  Ep. 118 - "No Bad Parts"? IFS, CPTSD, Faith & Deep Healing with Lynn Kearney, LMFT 22.07.2026 54min

  What if the anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, shutdown, anger, overthinking, or emotional reactions you struggle with are not proof that you are broken… but parts of you trying to protect you? In this powerful and compassionate episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana sits down with Lynn Kearney to explore Internal Family Systems (IFS), Complex PTSD (CPTSD), nervous system healing, emotional regulation, faith, therapist self-work, and what it really means to heal from the inside out. Together, Diana and Lynn unpack why so many people intellectually understand their patterns yet still feel emotionally stuck, how protective parts develop, and why curiosity and compassion often create deeper healing than shame and suppression. This episode explores: What Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy actually is The difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD (CPTSD) Exiles, firefighters, and managers in IFS Why some people spend years in therapy but still feel emotionally stuck How trauma and stress show up in the nervous system Why high-achieving people can still struggle internally The importance of therapists doing their own healing work Cultural humility, faith, and healing in diverse communities How to know if you've found the right therapist The difference between reacting emotionally and responding with wisdom Why "there are no bad parts" is often misunderstood in Christian spaces One of the most meaningful moments in the episode is Diana vulnerably sharing her own struggle as a Christian therapist trying to reconcile the IFS phrase "no bad parts" with teachings many people grew up hearing about shame, sin, and suppressing emotions. Lynn explains that IFS does not excuse harmful behavior or remove accountability. Instead, it helps people understand the protective intentions underneath emotional reactions so healing can happen with greater awareness, responsibility, and compassion. Listeners will also hear practical examples of: nervous system dysregulation childhood wounds relationship triggers emotional flooding shame responses overworking, overeating, and over-functioning as coping strategies and how self-awareness helps people move from survival mode into greater calm, clarity, and connection. About Today's Guest Lynn Kearney is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California and Florida with more than two decades of clinical experience since opening her private practice in 2002. She is a: Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapist Somatic IFS Practitioner Gottman Institute Educator Former Kaiser Permanente instructor in Couples Communication and MindBody Medicine Trauma-informed relational therapist specializing in body-oriented healing approaches Her training includes: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Brainspotting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Mindfulness Depth Psychology Intimacy from the Inside Out Learn more about Lynn here: https://ljktherapy.com/about Resources Mentioned in This Episode Diana's Blog: Is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Biblical? A Christian Therapist's Honest Perspective on Parts Work https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/post/is-internal-family-systems-ifs-biblical-a-christian-therapist-s-honest-perspective-on-parts-work Internal Family Systems (IFS) Institute Practitioner Directory https://ifs-institute.com/practitioners Through the Valley Therapy https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching https://www.transformedmindcc.com The Holistic Counselor Podcast Merch Store https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/  Key Takeaways From This Conversation Healing is not about shaming yourself into change. Protective parts often develop to help us survive painful experiences. Curiosity can calm what criticism intensifies. Good therapy should help you feel more grounded, not chronically flooded. The nervous system stores emotional experiences and protective responses. Therapists must continue doing their own inner work throughout their careers. Faith and psychological insight do not have to be enemies. Compassion and accountability can coexist. If This Episode Resonated With You If this conversation helped you better understand trauma, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CPTSD, emotional healing, nervous system regulation, or faith-integrated mental health, please consider: subscribing to The Holistic Counselor Podcast sharing this episode with a friend, therapist, church leader, or loved one and leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Reviews and shares genuinely help more people discover these conversations about trauma recovery, emotional healing, faith, relationships, neuroplasticity, and holistic mental health. You can also support the podcast by checking out the merch store below: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ Remember: Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind.       
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  Ep. 117 - How AI Is Changing Mental Health, Parenting, Therapy & Teen Brains w/ Dr. Joshua Stein, MD 15.07.2026 50min

  Is artificial intelligence helping mental health—or quietly harming it? In this eye-opening and deeply relevant episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice sits down with board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Joshua Stein for a raw, balanced, and practical conversation about artificial intelligence, teen mental health, parenting in the digital age, social media addiction, emotional regulation, therapy, anxiety, self-diagnosis culture, and how AI is rapidly changing the future of mental health care. As therapists, parents, educators, and human beings trying to stay emotionally grounded in a rapidly changing digital world, this conversation is no longer optional. From ChatGPT and AI therapy tools to TikTok diagnoses, emotional support chatbots, social media overload, and AI-assisted mental health support, Diana and Dr. Stein explore what people need to understand right now—without fear-mongering, panic, or losing our humanity in the process. Dr. Stein shares what first caught his attention: Teenagers and adults were already using AI for emotional support, mental health questions, therapy reinforcement, journaling, emotional processing, relationship concerns, and self-understanding long before many professionals realized what was happening. This episode explores: AI and mental health ChatGPT and emotional support Teen mental health in the digital age Parenting and technology boundaries Social media addiction and anxiety AI therapy tools and mental health apps High-functioning anxiety and emotional overwhelm Self-diagnosis culture on TikTok ADHD and autism self-diagnosis online Emotional regulation and coping skills Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) AI psychosis concerns and emotional dependency Mental health stigma in churches and communities How parents can talk to teens about AI safely Healthy technology boundaries for families The future of therapy and artificial intelligence Why AI is not replacing therapists How AI can "supercharge" therapy when used wisely One of the most important takeaways from this episode: AI is already here. The question is not whether people are using it—the question is whether we are teaching people how to use it safely, wisely, ethically, and relationally. Dr. Stein also discusses: Why many teens prefer texting or AI communication over phone calls The emotional risks of isolation and excessive screen dependency Why parents shutting conversations down often backfires How curiosity and connection create safer conversations with teens The importance of keeping communication open instead of fear-based Why AI should never fully replace human clinical care How mental health identity culture can become problematic online The importance of seeing the "whole person" beyond a diagnosis A powerful point Dr. Stein makes throughout the episode: Technology itself is not inherently evil or good—it is a tool. The real issue is whether people are using it with awareness, boundaries, wisdom, accountability, and human connection. Dr. Stein also shares practical signs parents should watch for if technology or AI use is becoming unhealthy: Increased isolation Withdrawal from hobbies or relationships Hiding technology use Emotional reactivity after screen use Sudden rigid identity attachment to online diagnoses New paranoia or unusual beliefs Dependency on AI for emotional validation Difficulty functioning in real-world relationships This episode is especially important for: Parents navigating technology with teens Therapists and mental health professionals Teachers and school counselors Ministry leaders and faith communities Adults using ChatGPT or AI for emotional support Anyone concerned about AI and mental health Families trying to create healthy digital boundaries People feeling overwhelmed by technology and social media About Dr. Joshua Stein: Dr. Joshua Stein is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, Chief of Medical Staff at PrairieCare, and Clinical Director and Attending Clinician at Newport Healthcare's PrairieCare Youth Partial Hospitalization Program in Minnesota. He attended Cornell University, earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School, and is a past president of the Minnesota Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Stein continues to advocate nationally for adolescent mental health and increasing access to quality care. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: PrairieCare: PrairieCare Newport Healthcare: Newport Healthcare AI Tips for Parents: AI Tips for Parents American Academy of Pediatrics Family Media Plan: AAP Family Media Plan 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Psychology Today Therapist Directory: Psychology Today Find a Therapist Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Dialectical Behavior Therapy Explained Headspace: Headspace Calm: Calm Woebot AI Mental Health Tool: Woebot Health Mindsera AI Journaling Tool: Mindsera Connect with Diana S. Rice: Through the Valley Therapy Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching The Holistic Counselor Podcast Support the Podcast + Merch Store: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Merch Store If this episode helped you better understand AI, parenting, emotional health, therapy, or the future of mental health care, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Reviews help more people discover these important conversations around mental health, faith, trauma, relationships, parenting, emotional regulation, and holistic healing. And if you'd like to support this independent podcast and help continue conversations that bridge faith, science, psychology, culture, and real-world mental health, check out the merch store above. Every review, share, download, and purchase helps this mission continue reaching people who may feel overwhelmed, unseen, or alone in today's rapidly changing world.
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  Ep. 116 - Why "Strong" People Struggle in Silence: Men's Mental Health, High-Functioning Anxiety, Intimacy & Healing w/ Todd Malloy, LMFT, CST 08.07.2026 59min

  Why do so many high-functioning people look successful on the outside while silently struggling on the inside? In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice sits down with psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, former engineer, and former pastor Todd Malloy for a deeply honest conversation about men's mental health, emotional neglect, survival mode, intimacy, trauma responses, burnout, faith, relationships, and what it actually means to heal. Todd shares his own story of growing up in poverty, helping support his family as a teenager, suppressing parts of himself to survive, and eventually realizing that achievement and productivity were not the same thing as emotional health. Together, Diana and Todd unpack: High-functioning anxiety and emotional exhaustion Why many "strong" people suffer in silence Childhood emotional neglect and survival programming Men's mental health and emotional suppression Faith, healing, and emotional honesty Relationship struggles, intimacy, and communication Why social media is increasing anxiety and disconnection Emotional fitness and nervous system awareness The pressure many men feel to provide while neglecting themselves Trauma responses disguised as resilience Purity culture, shame, and emotional disconnect How to stop living from other people's expectations What true healing and self-reclamation actually look like One of the most impactful themes in this episode is Todd's insight that many adults are not truly living their own lives — they are living out emotional scripts handed to them through family systems, culture, religion, fear, survival, and unresolved pain. Todd also explains: Why emotional suppression often turns into anger, anxiety, or depression How survival mode impacts relationships and intimacy Why many men were taught to "suffer in silence" How rigidity in faith or identity can block healing Why emotional safety matters in both therapy and relationships The importance of learning to identify and communicate emotions honestly This episode also dives into: Attachment theory Emotional fitness Bowen Family Systems concepts Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Communication patterns in relationships Trauma-informed healing Self-awareness and nervous system regulation Todd shares practical tools listeners can begin using immediately, including: The "Five Whys" exercise for uncovering root beliefs Writing your life story from a third-person perspective Becoming aware of emotional triggers and body sensations Learning to pause before reacting emotionally Asking better internal questions Building intentional emotional connection in relationships Reframing success based on authenticity instead of performance If you've ever felt: emotionally exhausted but still functioning disconnected from yourself pressured to always be strong misunderstood in relationships spiritually confused burned out from constantly surviving afraid to slow down lonely despite being surrounded by people …this conversation is for you. About Todd Malloy: Todd Malloy is a psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Certified Sex Therapist (CST), Certified Sexuality Educator, former engineer, and former pastor who helps people move from survival mode into "a life worth celebrating." His work focuses on emotional fitness, intimacy, communication, identity, relationships, and helping people reconnect with themselves in authentic and meaningful ways. Connect with Todd Malloy: Website: ToddMalloy.com Counseling Practice: Inner Peace Counseling Center Podcast Listener Resource Page: Todd Malloy Podcast Resources LinkedIn: Todd Malloy on LinkedIn YouTube: Todd Malloy YouTube Channel Resources Mentioned: Attachment Theory Overview: Attachment Theory Explained Bowen Family Systems Theory: Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): What Is Emotionally Focused Therapy? Asbury Theological Seminary: Asbury Theological Seminary Connect with Diana S. Rice: Through the Valley Therapy Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching The Holistic Counselor Podcast Support the Podcast + Merch Store: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Merch Store If this episode encouraged you, challenged your thinking, or helped you feel less alone, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Reviews help more people discover these conversations around mental health, trauma healing, faith, relationships, emotional wellness, and holistic healing. And if you'd like to support this independent podcast and its mission to break stigma in churches and diverse communities, check out the merch store above. Every share, review, download, and purchase helps continue these important conversations and keeps the podcast growing organically.
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  Ep. 115 - From Trauma to Prison to Purpose with Ranae Van Roekel | Founder of Connecting to Cope 01.07.2026 1h 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.
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  Ep. 114 - OCD, Intrusive Thoughts, and Religious Anxiety: How Exposure Therapy (ERP) Helps Break the Fear Cycle w/ Meghan Cromie 24.06.2026 1h 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.
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  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.
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  Ep. 112 - From Addiction to Purpose: Recovery, Incarceration, Trauma, and Rebuilding Life w/ Andrew Drasen 10.06.2026 1h 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.
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  Ep. 111 - Men's Mental Health, Church Hurt, and Nervous System Healing with Sacred Grit's Spiritual Coach, Jason Lyle 03.06.2026 1h 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.
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  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).
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  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: [email protected] 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.
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  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. 
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  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