In this bittersweet farewell episode of Initiated Survivor, I reflect on the incredible journey this podcast has been and my gratitude for this amazing chapter in my life. Though the podcast is ending, my commitment to working with survivors continues through therapy, workshops, and professional trainings. I want to give a special thanks to all the courageous survivors and supporters who've contributed. As I move forward, my website drkelseyharper.com remains a resource for ongoing support and connection. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
00:09 — Finale of Initiated Survivor
00:49 — The Journey of Initiated Survivor
01:36 — Growth and Authenticity
03:35 — Building Community
04:34 — Achievements and Recognition
05:39 — Future Plans and Gratitude
06:14 — Stay in Touch!
Topics/Triggers:
· Survivors
· Trauma Recovery
· Community
· Growth
· Grief
· Therapy
· Healing
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
I have a wonderful conversation with Michelle Hirschman of Hirschman Clinical Services on the topic of vicarious trauma among helping professionals. Michelle shares her extensive experience working with a team of mobile coaches who assist clients with chronic mental health issues, eating disorders, and substance abuse. We discuss the importance of recognizing signs of burnout and the unique supports Michelle's organization offers to therapists and the recovery treatment community. Additionally, Michelle introduces her initiative to integrate holistic healing modalities for both clients and professionals. We also emphasize the significance of maintaining self-care and resilience in the face of professional challenges.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
00:49 — About Hirschman Clinical Services
02:46 — Challenges in the Field: Vicarious Trauma and Burnout
09:26 — Holistic Healing Approaches
29:38 — Professional Support and Community
32:08 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts
★ Connect with Michelle Hirschman ★
· Visit the Hirschman Clinical Services Website
· Follow @hirschmanclinicalservices on Instagram
Topics/Triggers:
· Vicarious Trauma
· Suicide
· EMDR
· Burnout
· Holistic Healing
· Addiction
· Eating Disorders
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
This episode, I welcome back Meghan Goode, a fellow therapist and survivor, to discuss the intricate overlap between professional lives and personal traumas as therapists. We explore the concept of the 'wounded healer' and emphasize the importance of continuous self-care and therapy for professionals exposed to trauma. Meghan shares her journey, highlighting how her own traumatic experiences fueled her career shift, and her approach to EMDR and DBT therapy. We also discuss the challenges of vicarious trauma, the power of genuine therapist-client connections, and the impactful ripple effects of survivor stories.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
03:53 — The Wounded Healer
06:28 — Types of Therapy & Personal Healing
15:08 — The Power of Self-Disclosure
18:34 — Impact of Public Figures and Advocacy
27:10 — Honoring Survivors and Continuing the Mission
29:48 — Building Community for Survivors
★ Connect with Meghan Goode ★
· Visit Meghan’s Website here
· Listen to Initiated Survivor: Survivor to Warrior with Meghan Goode
Topics/Triggers:
· Rape
· DBT
· Trauma
· Vicarious Trauma
· EMDR
· Mindfulness
· PTSD
· Sexual Abuse
· Sexual Assault
· Suicide
· Bullying
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, I have Kelly Johnson, a writer, public speaker, and community engagement professional back on the podcast to discuss the concept of the 'palatable victim' within sexual violence narratives. We talk about societal and cultural expectations that define a 'palatable' victim, contrasting these with the reality faced by many survivors. We also highlight the struggles survivors face in being believed and heard, emphasizing the need to support all survivors regardless of these biases.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
00:24 — Defining the Palatable Victim
02:09 — Public Perception and Reporting
05:39 — Navigating the Justice System
08:55 — Societal Reactions and Victim Blaming
11:50 — Impact of Public Allegations
18:46 — Survivor Reactions and Misconceptions
23:59 — Privilege and Survivorship
30:48 — The Importance of Advocacy
★ Connect with Kelly Johnson ★
· Listen to Initiated Survivor: The far-reaching effects of trauma with Kelly Johnson
· Learn About Writers for Hope created by Kelly Johnson
· Follow @writersforhope on Instagram
Topics/Triggers:
· Rape
· Sexual Violence
· Palatable Victim
· Strangulation
· Violence
· Victim Blaming
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
This episode, I welcome back Justine Cross, a BDSM consultant and dominatrix, and Rena Martine, an intimacy coach and former deputy district attorney to the podcast. Justine and Rena share their expertise in creating safe, shame-free spaces for trauma survivors to explore their sexuality. We explore the concepts of trauma-informed sexual practices, importance of consent, and taking gradual steps in intimate encounters post-trauma. We also discuss frequently asked listener questions, such as how to navigate sexual experiences post-trauma, and emphasize gradual exposure, communication, and understanding one's own desires as pathways to healing and enjoyable intimate experiences.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
01:14 — Meet Justine Cross & Rena Martine
02:24 — Understanding Trauma-Informed Sexuality
03:29 — Practical Steps for Trauma-Informed Practices
04:57 — Creating Safe Spaces for Exploration
06:44 — The Importance of Consent and Communication
07:54 — Finding Community and Support
10:14 — Taking the First Steps Towards Healing
16:03 — AD: Trauma Resourcing Skills Workshop & Trauma Informed Intimacy Skills Workshop
18:23 — Addressing Common Concerns and Questions
25:56 — The Value of Sexual Exploration and Play
38:45 — Keep up with Rena and Justine!
★ Connect with Justine Cross ★
· Connect with Justine Here
· Learn More About Dungeon East
· Follow Justine on IG @thejustinecross
· Watch Justine's Work on YouTube
· Listen to Initiated Survivor: Mistress Justine Cross on Consent, Kink Communities, and BDSM
★ Connect with Rena Martine ★
· Connect with Rena Here
· The Sex You Want by Rena Martine
· Follow Rena on IG @rena.martine
· The Sex Drive Reset: Free Audio Guide
Topics/Triggers:
· Intimacy
· Trauma-informed Intimacy
· Sex Crimes
· Intimacy Coaching
· Trauma Survivors
· Sex Work
· Trauma Therapy
· BDSM
· Sexual Abuse
· Rape
· Spousal Rape
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, I talk about vicarious trauma and its similarities to burnout. I will cover what vicarious trauma is, symptoms, and real-life examples of vicarious trauma in helping professionals. I’ll also share the importance of recognizing and addressing vicarious trauma to prevent the development of chronic PTSD. I’ll discuss systemic factors contributing to vicarious trauma and the impact on personal and professional lives. You can look forward to future episodes, where I will share strategies for alleviating vicarious trauma and fostering community support.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
00:00 — Intro
00:12 — Connecting with Survivor-Focused Content
01:16 — Understanding Vicarious Trauma
06:11 — Symptoms of Vicarious Trauma
08:40 — Impact on Personal and Professional Life
10:32 — Managing Vicarious Trauma
16:24 — AD: Fall Workshops
28:10 — Challenges in the Helping Profession
30:59 — Survivor Therapists and Vicarious Trauma
33:59 — Conclusion and Future Content
Topics/Triggers:
· Vicarious Trauma
· Burnout
· Sexual Abuse
· Trauma Focused CBT
· PTSD
· Child Sexual Abuse
· Trauma Experience
· Trauma Memory
· Helplessness and Hopelessness
· Addictions
· Sexual Assault
· Rape
· Stalking
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, we’re shifting from gender-based violence to the unique challenges faced by all healthcare professionals — from psychologists and therapists to emergency responders. Addressing the high risk of burnout and compassion fatigue, I’m explaining how these professionals are uniquely vulnerable due to their roles. Burnout is characterized by chronic, unresolved stress leading to significant mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion, while compassion fatigue stems from witnessing the suffering of others. Moreover, BURNOUT IS NOT OUR FAULT. It is the result of systemic exploitation from late-stage capitalism and resource inequities. So how do we conquer it when it is not an individual problem? I’ll let you know my professional insights on interventions and community support, and the signs you need to look out for.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
00:00 — Understanding Burnout in Healthcare Professionals 04:26 — The Reality of Burnout 05:05 — Symptoms and Impact of Burnout 08:13 — Causes and Risk Factors for Burnout 12:40 — Personal Experiences with Burnout 20:21 — Addressing Burnout and Moving Forward
Topics/Triggers:
· Burnout
· Trauma
· Stress
· Exhaustion
· Mental Health
· Depression
· Compassion Fatigue
· Chronic Pain
· Moral Injury
· Isolation
· Helplessness
· Disassociation
· Empathy
· Anxiety
· Anger
· Capitalism
· Survival Mode
· Work Culture
· Human Rights & Social Injustices
· Neurodivergence
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
Welcome back to Part Three of Ask a Psychologist Anything! In this episode, I address the frequently asked question: 'How do I get my loved one to go to therapy?' While many people wish for their loved ones to go to therapy, the key takeaway is that you can't force anyone to go. I’ll talk about how therapy is not the only path to healing, alternative support methods, the importance of boundaries, how to help loved ones understand their options without pressuring them, and how respecting a person's dignity and autonomy is essential.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
00:32 — Understanding the Desire for Therapy
02:16 — The Reality of Therapy Accessibility
04:10 — Respecting Autonomy and Dignity
05:51 — Exploring Alternatives to Therapy
08:00 — Sharing Personal Experiences
11:22 — Avoiding Pressure and Blame
14:25 — Addressing Personal Needs and Boundaries
17:57 — Addressing Concerns & Respecting Decisions
Topics/Triggers:
· Therapy
· Trauma Recovery
· Relationships
· Community
· Family Relationships
· Victim Blaming
· Boundaries
· Self Harm Behavior
· Depression
· Suicide
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, I talk about the value and role of emotional support animals (ESAs) in mental health and trauma recovery. I’ll cover what ESAs are, the differences between ESAs and service animals, and the benefits of having an ESA, such as improved mental health, increased social interaction, and better routine management. I’ll also answer some common questions, like how to get an ESA, the types of animals that make good ESAs, and the legal rights of ESA owners. From my own experience, my emotional support animals have been a crucial part of my recovery and I am very thankful for them!
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
00:48 — Understanding Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
01:40 — Differences Between ESAs and Service Animals
02:39— Benefits of Emotional Support Animals
05:32— Legal Rights and Accessibility of ESAs
10:59 — How to Get an ESA
12:02 — Choosing the Right ESA for You
16:26 — Where You Can Take Your ESA
19:21 — Personal Experiences with ESAs
Topics/Triggers:
· Mental Health
· Emotional Support Animals
· Depression
· Anxiety
· Isolation
· Service Animals
· Emotional Regulation
· Trauma
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode of Initiated Survivor, I’ll discuss the vital role of social support and community in the process of recovering from trauma. I will talk about the innate human need for connection, and how isolation exacerbates feelings of insecurity and depression, while the sense of belonging fosters healing and a sense of safety. I will share practical ways those in recovery can find and integrate into communities, especially after experiences of trauma, and navigate the challenges of connecting authentically with others. I will also share a few of my personal experiences with finding community and connection, the importance of self-validation, and the continuous, life-long journey of finding belonging and support in community.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro
00:27 — The Power of Social Support in Mental Health Recovery
01:08 — Understanding Our Social Nature and Its Impact on Recovery
03:23 — Creative Expression and Community
07:54 — Navigating Social Connections as Adults: Challenges and Strategies
13:11 — Exploring Personal Values and Building Community Connections
14:37 — GROUP THERAPY AD: https://www.drkelseyharper.com/dbt-skills-group-for-lgbtq
24:38 — Embracing Vulnerability and Growth in Community Engagement
31:05 — Finding Peace and Purpose Through Community
Topics/Triggers:
· Abusive Realtionships
· Sexual Assault
· Community
· Creative Expression
· Self-Worth
· Self-Validation
· Trauma Recovery
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, I talk about the power of group therapy and community for those recovering from traumatic experiences. I’ll discuss the emotional isolation people often experience in the aftermath of traumatic events, and how this can be exacerbated by societal factors. I’ll share some personal experiences on how participating in group activities, such as restorative yoga classes and virtual workshops served as a healing mechanism and a stepping stone towards building relationships and community. Additionally, I will talk about the benefits of group therapy in cultivating listening, speaking, healing, and social skills while maintaining a safe, validating space for participants. I am also excited to be offering two new groups starting in April which include: DBT Skills Group for LGBTQ+ and a Trauma Recovery Skills Group!
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
00:00 — Intro
00:59 — The Struggles of Isolation and Anxiety
03:12 — The Comfort of Home and the Challenge of Leaving
04:01 — Overcoming Agoraphobia and Building Connections
05:51 — The Power of Solitude and Self-Care
07:04 — The Role of Community Activities in Recovery
10:09 — The Impact of the Pandemic and Virtual Groups
12:37 — Group Therapy Ad: https://www.drkelseyharper.com/dbt-skills-group-for-lgbtq
17:50 — The Benefits of Group Therapy
21:39 — Personal Experiences with Group Therapy
22:12 — Upcoming Group Therapy Opportunities
23:55 — The Healing Power of Groups
Topics/Triggers:
· Rape Culture
· Victim Blaming
· Agoraphobia
· Anxiety
· Trauma
· Trauma Recovery
· Virtual Groups and Community
· CPTSD
· Group Therapy
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, we delve deep into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma. We discuss the stigma associated with these conditions, their links to past trauma, their effects on personality and social behavior, and how they are often misunderstood. I’ll talk about the traits and symptoms of BPD, the relationship between BPD and complex trauma, and the intersections of these with PTSD. I’ll also cover the importance of trauma-informed care and discuss effective treatments like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other trauma interventions.
00:00 — Introduction to Borderline Personality Disorder
01:50 — Understanding the Nature of Borderline Personality Disorder
03:35 — Traits and Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder
11:45 — The Connection Between BPD and Trauma
13:18 — AD: Group Therapy: https://www.drkelseyharper.com/dbt-skills-group-for-lgbtq
14:49 — Understanding Complex PTSD and its Relation to BPD
21:07 — Treatment Options for BPD and Complex Trauma
23:41 — Conclusion and Future Discussions
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
Topics/Triggers:
· Dialectical Behavior Therapy by Dr. Marsha Linehan
· Suicide and Suicidal Ideation
· PTSD
· Trauma
· Emotional Overload and Overstimulation
· Intrusive Memories
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
As survivors, we understand the experience of being wronged and the desire to make a positive impact in the world. With so much happening at this moment, it can feel overwhelming. However, one effective tool we have in our fight for a better future is activism. By standing up for our values within our local community, we can create meaningful change. In this episode of 'Initiated Survivor', we explore the role of activism in the healing process for trauma survivors. We discuss how engaging in collective actions that align with our personal values can foster a sense of community and serve as a powerful tool for change and recovery. I also provide various strategies for incorporating activism into our recovery journey, such as connecting with long-term goals, emphasizing community-building, and supporting local organizations that make a tangible impact on our daily lives.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
00:00 — Introduction
01:37 — The Power of Activism
03:20 — Activism and Emotional Expression
05:00 — AD: Individual Therapy: https://www.drkelseyharper.com/trauma-therapy
05:42 — Mindfulness in Activism
08:42 — Sensory Needs in Activism
09:40 — Titration and Exposure in Activism
11:05 — Emotional Support, Expressive Activities, Self Care
16:20 — AD: Group Therapy: https://www.drkelseyharper.com/dbt-skills-group-for-lgbtq
17:40 — Engaging in Pleasant Activities & Personal Values
19:15 — Different Ways to Engage in Activism
22:23 — Local Organizations
24:50 — Providing Direct Services in Activism
26:01 — Utilizing Personal Skills in Activism
27:15 — Conclusion: The Power of Activism in Healing Trauma
Topics/Triggers:
· Titrating
· Self-care
· Community Engagement
· Trauma Processing
· Self-soothing Habits
· Physiological Regulations
· Mindfulness
· The Power of Activism
· Vicarious Trauma
· Engaging in Expressive & Pleasant Activities
· Our Values & Goals
· Abortion Bans
· Success Stories Prison Feminism
· Supporting NonProfit Organizations
· Grassroots Activism
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
Diet culture permeates every facet of our lives. We have to eat food to live, but when our relationship to food becomes complicated, we can quickly lose control and fall into disordered eating habits due to the societal pressures all around us. In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing the incredible Devon Cole, RD, MS, a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating and trauma recovery. We delved into the world of intuitive eating and explored how it goes beyond just fueling our bodies. Devon shared valuable insights on how intuitive eating allows us to embrace pleasure, connection, and celebration when it comes to food. We discussed the harmful effects of diet culture and the mental gymnastics it imposes on us when trying to fit into unattainable beauty standards. Throughout the episode, Devon shared her expertise and provided practical advice for survivors of trauma and anyone seeking a healthier relationship with food.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
Topics/Triggers:
· Diet Culture
· Disordered Eating
· Chronic Dieting
· Intuitive Eating
· Health at Every Size
· When to See a Dietitian
· Binge Eating
· Calorie Restriction
· Common Questions & Concerns with Dieting
· Food & The Need for Control
· The Binge-Restrict Cycle
· Unattainable Beauty Standards
· Maintaining Our Agency
· Coming Home to Your Body
· Food as Culture Rather than Just Sustenance
· Health & Healthy Eating
· Weight
· How Parents Can Help Their Children with Weight
· Why Our Relationship to Our Bodies Affects Our Relationship with Food
Connect with Devon Cole:
· Website: https://devoncolerd.com/
· Instagram @devoncolerd https://www.instagram.com/devoncolerd/
· Email: devoncolerd@gmail.com
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
We are back for another round of Ask a Psychologist Anything. In this episode, I dive into various topics related to trauma, vulnerability management, therapist-client relations, and the balance between triggers and optimism. We discuss the balance between pushing for change and taking care of ourselves, the concept of the window of tolerance, and how it affects our emotional well-being. Join me as I provide insights, practical advice, and compassionate guidance on navigating trauma recovery and fostering mental well-being. Whether you're a survivor, a mental health professional, or simply interested in these topics, this podcast aims to create a supportive and informative space for everyone.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
Topics/Triggers:
· Trauma Related Grief
· EMDR
· How to Cope
· Politics
· Following Through on Goals
· Neurodivergence
· Hypervigilance & Apathy
· Activism & Triggers
· Politics and Therapy
· The Client-Therapist Relationship
· Trauma
· Mental Health and Community
· The Meaning of Rest
· Vulnerability Management
· Support Systems
· Initiated Survivor: Poet Kate Burns on The Power of Creativity for Healing:
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
We've got something special for you on Initiated Survivor for the Holiday Season! Join us as we revisit a past episode called "Holiday Survival Skills." I know that the holidays can be a bit overwhelming, especially with all the family dynamics, financial pressures, and cultural stressors. But we've got some practical strategies to help you handle it all. We'll show you how to take care of yourself while also actively participating in positive change. It's all about finding those moments of connection, celebrating your values, and staying grounded during tough times. We're here to support you as you create meaningful memories and navigate the end of the year with resilience and joy. Enjoy this replay, and happy holidays!
Topics/Triggers:
• Seasonal Energy Shifts
• Dark Moon Phase of the Year
• Heightened Sensitivities around Triggers During the Holidays
• Radical Acceptance & Mindfulness
• Living in the Moment Without Judgement.
• How to Practice Mindfulness Daily
• Giving Yourself Permission to Remove Yourself from Toxic Situations
• The Value of Setting & Enforcing Boundaries in Relationships
• Treating Our Time & Energy as Finite Resources
• Giving Yourself the Gift of Prioritizing Your Own Needs
• Self-Care During the Holiday Season
• Private Distractions During Events
• Finding Connection
• Self-Soothing (Listen to Initiated Survivor Bonus Ep "Skill Spotlight - Self-Soothing" for more information!)
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
In this episode, I had the honor of interviewing Kate Burns, a survivor and poet. We delved deep into her healing journey and the importance of community support. Kate shared her experiences of initially struggling to trust men and the significance of allowing survivors to fully own their feelings without judgment. She also discussed the creation of her emotional emergency care kit and the power of reaching out to trusted friends for support. We explored the transformative impact of writing letters to oneself and receiving affirmations from others. Kate's resilience and fierce determination to create a safe space for survivors were truly inspiring, and she leaves us all with a touch of her wisdom by closing out the interview with a reading of one of her poems in her book, "All My Favorite Men Are Dead." Listen in as we explore healing, community, and finding strength in vulnerability.
→ Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
00:00 — Intro
00:18 — Kate's Survivor Story
03:19 — Creativity & Healing
10:17 — Making Poetry Active
11:54 — Kate's Recovery
16:10 — How to Get Started in Poetry
22:04 — Effective Healing Strategies
28:14 — Emergency Emotional Care Kit
33:42 — Community & Trust
38:53 — A Reading of Kate's Poem "Me Too"
Topics/Triggers:
• Using a Pseudonym
• Sexual Assault from a Male Friend
• Finding Community
• Asking for Help
• Suicide
• Healing through Creativity
• Emotional Self-Care
• Attachment Wounds
• Trust
• Feeling Safe in Your Body
• The Power of Poetry
Connect with Kate:
— Website: https://www.kateburnspoet.com/
— Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kateburnspoet/?hl=en
— Links: https://linktr.ee/kbpoetry
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
Dedeker Winston was last on the podcast to discuss her somatic practitioner training and how somatic experience can help you on your recovery journey. Today, she shares her story of surviving domestic violence in one of her romantic partnerships. Dedeker talks about what it was like leaving an abusive relationship, the challenges and rewards of practicing non-monogamy, and the importance of community support in healing from trauma. We discuss the harmful stereotypes surrounding victims and perpetrators of abuse and the need for a more nuanced understanding of these dynamics. Dedeker also shares her perspective on the power of embodied experiences of safety and security in healing from trauma. Join us for this powerful conversation on healing, community, and the importance of breaking out of societal norms to find new ways of relating and connecting with others.
Connect with Dedeker:
• Website: https://www.dedekerwinston.com/
• Multiamory Podcast: https://www.multiamory.com/podcast-summary
Topics/Triggers:
• Consensual Non-monogamy
• Domestic Abuse
• Intimate Partner Violence
• The Feeling of Paralysis
• Cognitive Dissonance
• PTSD
• The Image of an Abuser
• Telling Your Partner About Your Trauma
• Finding a Safe, Secure Attachment
• Shame
• Polyamory
• The Variety of Responses from People in Your Life
• Signs of Abuse in a Relationship
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If you took anything away from today’s podcast, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. And if you really want to support the podcast please give us a rate/review.
If you or anyone you know is suffering through trauma contact the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or online for 24/7 support. (This podcast is not a replacement for psychotherapy or mental health care. You can obtain a referral for mental health care provider from your primary care physician, or search on Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist directory)
Find more Initiated Survivor content here and on Instagram!
