Stacy Schaffer is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arvada, Colorado, with over twenty years of experience specializing in child and teen therapy. She is passionate about helping children heal from grief, anxiety, and childhood trauma through innovative approaches like Synergetic Play Therapy, which emphasizes therapist authenticity and creating a safe, understanding space for children. Stacy's work and her book, "From a Child Therapist with Love," offer valuable insights for parents seeking mental health support for their children and themselves. Her mission is to empower families to heal and to shift the origin stories of trauma through compassionate, evidence-based therapy. Stacy brings a heartfelt and knowledgeable perspective to the More Than Therapy podcast, sharing her journey and expertise in child mental health and trauma recovery.
Today on More Than Therapy, we have the profound pleasure of welcoming Leah Johnson, a transformational leader whose journey from a 25-year career in politics to a life devoted to creativity, healing, and joy is nothing short of inspiring. Leah is a best-selling author, internationally sought-after speaker, certified Intentional Creativity instructor, and retreat leader who helps people reconnect with their creative power and live intentionally aligned lives.
After a long and demanding career in public service, Leah experienced profound burnout and depression, which became a catalyst for deep personal transformation. She courageously walked away from the identity and system that no longer served her and ventured into the world of art, spirituality, and self-advocacy. Through her books, workshops, and retreats — including her signature transformational journeys in Teotihuacan, Mexico — Leah guides others to shed limiting beliefs, cultivate authentic joy, and co-create lives filled with meaning and soul.
Leah’s work reminds us that joy is not a luxury but a lifeline. As she often says, “You are the artist of your life — and the canvas is ready.” Today, she shares her wisdom on how to quit what no longer serves you with intention, reclaim your creativity, and embrace a joyful, resilient path forward.
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Hosted by:
Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT
Executive Director of More Than Therapy
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Office: 1-919-729-6300
Cell: 1-919-679-2263
www.morethantherapy.orghttps://amazon.com/author/mistertherapist
Gratitude: I live and work on the ancestral lands of Occaneechi, Shakori, Lumbee, Catawba and Cheraw Native American tribes. I gratefully acknowledge the past and present Native Peoples on whose ancestral homelands I make my life.
Born in Athens, Greece as an Air Force brat, Teri M. Brown now calls the North Carolina coast home. In 2020, she and her husband, Bruce, rode a tandem bicycle across the United States from Astoria, Oregon to Washington DC, successfully raising money for Toys for Tots. Teri’s debut novel, Sunflowers Beneath the Snow, is a historical fiction set in Ukraine, her second, An Enemy Like Me, is set in WWII, and her third, Daughters of Green Mountain Gap, is a generational story about Appalachian healers. Her short story, The Youngest Lighthouse Keeper, came out in the anthology Feisty Deeds: Historical Fictions of Daring Women. 10 Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure (Feb 2025), is an inspirational look at the life lessons she learned riding across the United States on a tandem bicycle. Her latest book, Little Lola and Her Big Dream, is a children’s picture book helping children realize that it is okay to have big dreams even in the face of opposition. Learn more at www.terimbrown.com.
Facebook.com/TeriMBrownAuthor
Twitter.com/TeriMBrown1
Instagram.com/TeriMBrown_Author
LinkedIn.com/in/TeriMBrown
Goodreads.com/terimbrown
Tiktok.com/@terimbrown_author
Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/author/terimbrown
Youtube.com/@TeriMBrown_Author
Bookbub.com/profile/teri-m-brown
Hosted by
Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT
Executive Director of More Than Therapy
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Office: 1-919-729-6300
Cell: 1-919-679-2263
www.morethantherapy.orghttps://amazon.com/author/mistertherapist
Gratitude: I live and work on the ancestral lands of Occaneechi, Shakori, Lumbee, Catawba and Cheraw Native American tribes. I gratefully acknowledge the past and present Native Peoples on whose ancestral homelands I make my life.
Jim Marshall is a polymathic intellectual who has has devoted over 50,000 hours to the study and practice of multiple dimensions of human development. He received a classical education at a Jesuit Military School, was accepted into engineering school while still a junior in prep school, and attended college on academic scholarship. He graduated college with a Bachelor of Science cum laude. While still an undergraduate, he began the study of “alternative” Arts and Sciences which today would be described as Transformational and Holistic. Eventually, he became a professional practitioner and, after 28 years of formal education, had a long career as a Human Development Engineer. He has successfully worked with hundreds of clients, and is the inventor of Septemics and several consciousness-expanding systems. His areas of expertise include psychology, philosophy, theology, parapsychology, science, engineering, mathematics, law, literature, history, music, organization, metaphysics, military science, political science, physical culture, human potential and education.
This episode was recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT at More Than Therapy.
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Check out the books authored by Felipe Blue available on Amazon:
https://amazon.com/author/mistertherapist
Are you looking for therapy services? Check out Felipe Blue, licensed therapist in South Carolina and North Carolina, at:
This episode was recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT at More Than Therapy.
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Check out the books authored by Felipe Blue available on Amazon:
https://amazon.com/author/mistertherapist
Are you looking for therapy services? Check out Felipe Blue, licensed therapist in South Carolina and North Carolina, at:
Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS has created "Addicted to Surviving" which is a book and program from More Than Therapy, a non-profit organization, which explores the profound connection between past trauma and the development of compulsive and addictive behaviors. It posits that these behaviors are not personal failings but rather adaptive survival mechanisms that, while once necessary, can later hinder well-being. The text introduces trauma-informed care and practical healing tools, emphasizing self-regulation, resilience, and the importance of supportive relationships. Through a blend of scientific insights and personal narratives, the book guides readers toward understanding and transforming these deeply ingrained patterns, ultimately aiming for a life of conscious choice and thriving rather than mere survival.
You can buy a copy for yourself and your agency at: https://amzn.to/4lHgr1y
It's Okay to Not Be Okay!: An Empowering Gude to Men's Mental Health by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS from More Than Therapy... here's a comprehensive guide addresses men's mental health, exploring the historical and cultural roots of stoic masculinity that often hinder emotional expression. It emphasizes recognizing signs of distress and the power of vulnerability as crucial steps toward well-being. The text advocates for reclaiming emotional sovereignty through practices like setting healthy boundaries, cultivating self-compassion, and fostering emotional intelligence. Ultimately, it calls for a transformative shift toward a more authentic and balanced understanding of strength, integrating emotional openness with traditional resilience for lasting personal and societal change.
You can buy your copy at: https://amzn.to/4ezE1L2
Andrain Horton meets with Felipe Blue to discuss trauma.
Andrain Horton is the visionary founder of Bend The Mind Metamorphic Academies, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in October 2021. Driven by a commitment to serve underserved communities, Andrain co-founded the academies with Alexis Figueroa to provide healing and coping mechanisms for individuals impacted by trauma from social stressors, learned behaviors, and adverse environments, regardless of age, gender, or race.
Under Andrain's leadership, Bend The Mind Metamorphic Academies aims to empower participants to heal themselves, become positive agents of change within their families and communities, and ultimately teach others to do the same. The organization fosters a "village" of wellness and recovery through empowerment, education, arts, and entertainment, collaborating with community partners to support transformation and growth.
Find out more about the movement at: https://www.btmma.com/
Pick up your copy of Addicted To Trauma written by Felipe Blue at: https://amzn.to/4eA8bhf
This extensive book explores the profound impact of absent fathers and societal expectations of strength on Black men, emphasizing the "unspoken burden" of emotional suppression. It highlights how historical and systemic barriers intertwine with personal experiences of loss, leading to cycles of isolation. The source then transitions to discuss pathways to healing, stressing the importance of vulnerability, self-compassion, and open communication within families and communities. Ultimately, it advocates for a redefinition of masculinity that integrates resilience with tenderness and authentic emotional expression, aiming to foster a legacy of love, connection, and collective well-being for future generations.
You can buy it now at: https://amzn.to/3Gsthlb
Check it out and other books by Felipe Khristopher Blue and his team at: https://amazon.com/author/mistertherapist
Felipe Khristopher Blue discusses men's mental health, and the title of his book, "It's Okay to Not Be Okay." He talks about how societal expectations have shaped the way men express themselves, and how this can lead to issues like anger, irritability, depression, and substance abuse. He provides practical strategies and self-care practices for men, such as mindful journaling, cognitive reframing, and building Supportive relationships. The book also covers the importance of confronting barriers to connection and seeking help.
IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK - A MEN'S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH EVENT ON 6/28/2025 at 12pm
Join us for an afternoon of honest conversation, reflection, and community as we launch It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: An Empowering Discussion Regarding Men’s Mental Health in recognition of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month. This event is designed to break the silence around men’s mental health, challenge outdated narratives, and empower attendees to embrace vulnerability as a pathway to resilience and connection.
Who Should Attend:
Men seeking support, understanding, or a new perspective on mental health.
Allies, partners, and community members interested in breaking down stigma.
Therapists, counselors, educators, and advocates for men’s wellness.
Anyone ready to challenge the old script and help build a new, more inclusive narrative.
Why Attend?
Despite progress, many men still struggle in silence, caught between inherited expectations and the realities of modern life. This event offers a safe space to explore the roots of stoic masculinity, unpack cultural myths, and discover that real strength comes from authenticity and connection, not suppression.
What's Included?
Community, discussions, food and light beverages, a signed copy of the newly released book on the same subject matter which includes an 8 week programming one can use for self empowerment or use in a group setting, resources, and ongoing support via networking, and for mental health professionals, up to 3 CEU from the NCSAPPB board under General Skill Building.
Learning a new skill, like playing the guitar, requires transforming theoretical knowledge into practical ability. The author shares "Golden Rules" for mastering any new skill, derived from their guitar-learning journey.
These rules include:
Spoken by Felipe Khristopher Blue of More Than Therapy as his alias, the creative, Jamari Leonard.
Do you need a therapist?
More Than Therapy
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Specializing in CBT, CBT-I, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, addictions, and more....
This document summarizes the key themes and "Golden Rules" for mastering a new skill, as presented in the provided excerpts from "Mastering Skills: Guitar and Beyond." The author uses their journey of learning guitar as a framework to outline universal principles applicable to a wide range of skill-based pursuits. The central idea is the transformation of theoretical knowledge into practical ability through consistent, focused, and analytical practice.
The core message of the source revolves around the deliberate and structured approach required for effective skill acquisition. The author emphasizes that simply acquiring knowledge is insufficient; it must be actively converted into demonstrable proficiency. This transformation is guided by a set of "Golden Rules," which are presented as crucial for sustained progress and avoiding common pitfalls.
Most Important Ideas/Facts (Golden Rules):
The author outlines seven key rules for mastering any new skill, drawing parallels from their guitar learning experience:
Consistency is King: The most critical element is regular practice, even in short bursts. The author states, "It's far more important to pick up that axe for a little bit almost every single day than to attempt an all-nighter once a month." This steady engagement builds momentum and reinforces learning. The author's personal goal of "30-60 minutes daily, broken into short bursts" exemplifies this principle.
Immerse Yourself to Speak the Language of Licks: To truly master a skill, one must become deeply familiar with its fundamental elements, treating it like learning a new language. The author describes becoming a "musical sponge," "immersing myself in basic patterns, chord progressions, and simple melodies, repeatedly and daily." This foundational fluency is essential before attempting more complex aspects.
Analyze Your Faux Pas to Fix Your Fretting Fails: Identifying and understanding mistakes is paramount for improvement. The author highlights the importance of dissecting "screw-ups" to understand "why your fingers are doing the funky chicken instead of a smooth chord change." Seeking feedback from "a more experienced jam buddy, a sympathetic teacher, or some online tutorials" is suggested as a means to pinpoint and correct these errors.
Focus on the Fretboard, Not the Fame: Rather than fixating on distant goals or rapid progress, learners should concentrate on controllable actions in the present. The author advises against obsessing over achieving a certain level, which can lead to frustration. Instead, focus should be placed on "practicing your scales, drilling those tricky chord changes, learning new songs, and just playing for the sheer joy of it."
Don't Try to Learn Every Solo Ever Written – Just a Few Key Riffs: Being strategic with learning is crucial. Attempting to absorb all available knowledge at once can be overwhelming. The author advocates for focusing on "a few targeted exercises" and resisting the urge to get "sidetracked by the siren song of a new, impossibly fast lick." This focused approach allows for deeper understanding and mastery of specific areas.
Turn Knowledge into Skill with Tiered Tremolos: Theoretical knowledge must be translated into practical skill through systematic and repetitive practice at increasing levels of difficulty. The author describes a "tiered approach," starting with slow practice without pressure, then adding pressure, and finally increasing tempo and intensity. Each tier involves striving for perfect execution, moving to the next when proficiency is achieved.
Don't Forget to Rock Out (and Have Fun!): Maintaining enjoyment in the learning process is vital for avoiding burnout. The author acknowledges that learning can be challenging but stresses the importance of finding joy in the process. They note that the "sheer joy of making even a slightly recognizable melody has only grown" during their guitar journey. If learning feels like a chore, motivation will likely wane.
Happy Mother's Day!
Recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS for More Than Therapy which is located at: 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701. Accepting new clients!!
Can you think of some good things that have come through your own self-discovery?
What might our knowledge of ourselves reveal about life?
Do you know anyone who constantly struggles looking for answers in the wrong places? How might you help them find the right place?
Spoken by:
Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy) More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 www.MoreThanTherapy.org Office: 919-729-6300Mobile: 919-679-2263
and
Brook and Jubal from the Brook and Jubal Show.
The stigma surrounding mental health has various impacts on individuals, such as preventing them from seeking treatment and causing discrimination in the workplace. Addressing stigma can lead to better access to care and resources for those with mental health conditions, as well as promoting social inclusion and empowerment for individuals to manage their health and pursue their goals. It can also foster a stronger, more diverse community. During the podcast, Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS discuss the importance of mental health and the challenges faced by marginalized communities when it comes to accessing mental health resources. He is joined by two preseasoned therapists, Alex Hatley and Alexis Prunczic, who share their personal experiences and insights on the topic. Together, they discuss the impact of systemic racism, poverty, and other social factors on mental health and how community involvement can help in raising awareness and promoting access to mental health services. They emphasize the need for Stigma around mental health needs to be addressed in order to promote well-being and reduce discrimination against those living with mental health challenges. To reduce stigma, it is important to promote open conversations, educate ourselves and others, and advocate for supportive policies and human rights. Acknowledging individuals' abilities and empowering them to reach their full potential can also help reduce stigma. Media also plays a role in perpetuating or reducing stigma, so it is important to be mindful of the content we consume and create.
Mental health stigma is a negative attitude or belief towards people with mental health conditions, and it is common in society. Public stigma is when people view mental health negatively and may prevent individuals from seeking help. There is also self-stigma where individuals put themselves down or identify strongly with their diagnosis. Structural stigma is when societal structures create an environment of stigmatizing certain groups, such as those in the LGBTQ+ community or low-income individuals. The consequences of mental health stigma can include individuals not seeking This was a conversation about the stigma surrounding mental health and the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. The participants discussed the societal pressures and stereotypes that contribute to the stigma, and how this can lead to social isolation and discrimination for those struggling with mental health challenges. They also discussed the importance of education and empathy and the need for more accessible and supportive mental health services in the workplace.
Alexis M. Prunczik and Alexandra Hatley are both master 's-level Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
Ms. Prunczik is a mental health professional of six years; her work includes being a Direct Support Professional II within group homes, an Autism Support Specialist, an Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist, and currently a Qualified Professional and Employment Support Professional III. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Alcohol & Drug Studies through East Carolina University.
Ms. Hatley also previously has experience as a Registered Behavioral Technician within the Applied Behavior Analysis field and double-majored in psychology and sociology during her undergraduate studies at East Carolina University. She volunteered at a Crisis Text-Line center for over a year and is interested in growing as a professional through knowledge and advocating for both equality and access.
#multiculturalism #decolonizetherapy #mentalhealthawareness
Hosted by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS
Recorded at More Than Therapy
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Director of Photography:
Kaya Jay
Intro Music:
Felipe Blue
How easy is it for you to notice all that is around you? Can you do it all of the time? Most of the time?
How much do you lose when you do not pay attention to the present moment?
Will you ever get it back again?
Part 1 presented by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS.
Part 2 presented by Jude and June Blume.
Recorded in connection with:
More Than Therapy
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Do you need therapy?
Schedule a consult with us when you are ready.
www.morethantherapy.org
919-679-2263
In this episode, we dive into the transformative process of creating a vision board for 2025, building on the reflections from last year's board. We discuss the importance of self-reflection and goal assessment as we evaluate what worked and what didn’t in 2024.
Key Highlights:
Reflecting on 2024: We start by encouraging listeners to take a moment to look back on their 2024 vision board. What goals were achieved? Which ones fell short? Understanding these outcomes helps in setting realistic and meaningful intentions for the upcoming year.
Lessons Learned: We provide insights into the common obstacles that may have hindered progress in 2024. Listeners will learn how to identify these barriers, whether they be lack of time, motivation, or clarity in goals.
Setting Intentions for 2025: Transitioning into the new year, we emphasize the importance of specificity in goal-setting. We discuss how to define clear, actionable goals that resonate with personal values and aspirations.
Today's thought of the day enters on the power of selfless service, emphasizing that everyone possesses the capacity to contribute positively to others' lives. It defines a "heart full of grace" as virtuous and compassionate, suggesting that serving others cultivates both personal growth and spiritual connection. The author encourages readers to embrace service with love and compassion, prompting reflection on motivations and expectations surrounding acts of kindness. Finally, the text connects serving others with finding meaning and purpose in life.
When you do something for someone else, what kind of expectations do you have of how that other person should react to your help?
What are some of the hidden gems in a life of servitude towards our fellow man?
Do you ask yourself some of the important questions about life? If not, how long will you wait?
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Recorded by:
Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT
Executive Director of More Than Therapy
201 W Main Street
Suite 316
Durham, NC 27701
Office: 1-919-729-6300
Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263
Do you want/need therapy and live in NC or SC?
Do you have Aetna insurance? Quest Behavioral Health? Carelon Behavioral Health? Anthem EAP - Bank of America?
Let's schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal goals.
(Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy)