In this conversation, Maris Leffler, a licensed therapist, shares her journey into trauma therapy, focusing on the innovative technique of brain spotting. She discusses societal misconceptions about trauma, the importance of emotional vulnerability, and how men often struggle with expressing their feelings. Maris emphasizes the significance of recognizing physical symptoms of trauma and knowing when to seek professional help. The discussion also covers how to support loved ones in emotional distress, maximize therapy sessions, and find one's authentic self. Additionally, they explore the impact of technology on mental health, the importance of self-compassion, and the healing power of nature. The conversation concludes with insights on grief, unexpressed love, and the complexity of human experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Journey into Trauma Therapy

02:15 Understanding Brain Spotting

05:37 Societal Misconceptions about Trauma

07:44 Men and Emotional Expression

10:24 Recognizing Physical Symptoms of Trauma

12:55 When to Seek Professional Help

14:00 Overcoming the Fear of Discussing Trauma

17:08 Building Trust in Therapy

18:14 Supporting Loved Ones in Emotional Distress

21:04 Maximizing Therapy Sessions

23:10 Finding Your Authentic Self

25:05 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health

30:01 Cultivating Self-Compassion

32:52 Externalizing Emotions: The Power of Journaling

35:00 Modeling Emotional Expression: Permission to Feel

37:59 Repressing Emotions: The Myth of Strength

40:03 Physical Activity: A Path to Emotional Processing

46:01 Nature's Role in Mental Health

47:59 Moving On: Letting Go of the Past

51:10 Building Momentum: Small Victories in Depression

55:06 Self-Compassion: Celebrating Personal Wins

01:00:09 Grief and Unexpressed Love: Healing Through Attachment