What Would Dr. Meyers Do?

Pause, Notice, Respond. We are moving beyond the wellness trend to explore how mindfulness in therapy actually works in clinical practice. In this episode, we explore how mindfulness moves beyond a wellness buzzword and becomes a meaningful clinical tool in therapy sessions. We discuss how therapists introduce mindfulness techniques in practice, how it supports trauma-informed care, and what happens internally for clinicians when sessions become emotionally intense. We will also share practical strategies such as guided meditation, body scans, and other grounding techniques. Whether you’re a clinician or simply curious about the role of mindfulness in mental health, this episode offers an honest look at how present-moment awareness can shift therapeutic work. Mindfulness is everywhere—but what does it actually look like in therapy?Natalie Nieves is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), counselor educator in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Molloy University, and a doctoral candidate at Montclair State University, where she is expected to graduate this May!During her doctoral teaching internship, she developed a Mindfulness and Counseling course shaped by her mentorship with Dr. Sheely Moore, her personal meditation and yoga practice, and the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn. Influenced by Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), the course integrates contemplative practice with clinical skill development. Natalie and Dr. Sheely-Moore’s manuscript on utilizing mindfulness and embodied pedagogy to address racial microaggressions in the classroom will be published in an upcoming issue of ACES Teaching Practice Briefs. Outside of academia, Natalie operates a private practice serving predominantly women of color. Grounded in multicultural competency, she integrates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and restorative practices such as mindfulness to strengthen the mind–body connection while honoring clients’ intersecting cultural identities.

In this episode, Dr. Meyers sits down with Kate Lund, a clinical psychologist and resilience expert, to explore a shift in how we understand challenges and support emotional resilience in children, families, and ourselves.Together, they unpack what it means to see children not as problems to fix, but as emotional human beings to support. Kate explains how reframing behavior through a strengths-based parenting approach can influence the parent-child relationship and support emotional regulation, flexibility, and self-awareness.The conversation focuses on how resilience develops through everyday experiences, not just in response to adversity. Dr. Meyers and Kate discuss how parents can support emotional growth, confidence, and adaptability in ordinary moments, helping children build internal resources over time.Dr. Kate Lund, is a psychologist, TEDx speaker, best-selling author, and host of The Optimized Mind podcast. Her book Step Away—The Keys to Resilient Parenting, is available on amazon and focuses on small, practical steps for parents and leaders facing burnout, setbacks, or those "ugly cry in the car" days.

In this episode, Dr. Meyers explores what happens when the clinician becomes the patient. Anthony Gaetani, LMSW, reflects on how his own therapy has shaped the way he shows up in his professional work. This candid conversation examines therapists in therapy, countertransference and burnout in social work, offering an honest look at the emotional weight of clinical responsibility — carrying clients’ stories home, the persistent feeling of “never doing enough,” and the internal pressure many helpers know all too well. Through personal therapy, he developed greater self-awareness, stronger professional boundaries and deeper compassion — for his clients and for himself — while doing work rooted in care, responsibility, and human connection.Anthony earned his Bachelor of Social Work from Molloy University and his Master of Social Work from Fordham University. He has experience working with diverse populations across inpatient and outpatient settings and currently works as an inpatient psychiatric social worker supporting individuals experiencing acute psychiatric challenges through comprehensive assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration and linkage to community-based resources that promote long-term stability. He approaches social work as both a profession and a calling, grounded in the belief that every individual deserves dignity, respect and the opportunity to thrive beyond hospitalization.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Amy Meyers opens up about her personal experience with emotional and physical sibling abuse and the long-lasting effects on self-esteem, trust, and relationships.Joined by fellow survivor Lorene Stanwick, Dr. Meyers reflects on family dynamics, her current sibling relationship, and the challenges of speaking publicly about trauma. She shares why telling her story now feels important and how it connects to her work as a psychotherapist.Listeners will gain insight into healing from childhood trauma, building resilience, and personal growth after abuse. Dr. Meyers’ journey is a compelling example of overcoming adversity and reclaiming confidence, offering hope and guidance for survivors, parents, and mental health professionals.

In this episode, Dr. Meyers shares her thoughtful perspective on psychiatric medication, focusing on its potential utility as a tool rather than a cure. She explores how medication can help stabilize symptoms, support day-to-day functioning, and create the conditions for individuals to more fully engage in therapy. With a balanced and compassionate lens, this conversation invites listeners to move beyond polarized debates and consider how medication and therapy can work together to support healing and growth.

In this episode, Dr. Ray Blanchard explores the critical role of context and systems in practice, grounding the conversation in the person-in-environment perspective. Together, we move beyond pathologizing individuals to examine how relationships, environments, and larger systems shape functioning and behavior. Dr. Blanchard highlights the importance of collaboration, curiosity, and shared meaning-making, emphasizing a systems-oriented lens where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. This episode invites practitioners to rethink assessment and intervention through a more relational, contextual, and humane framework. Dr. Ray Blanchard earned his PhD in Counseling from Montclair State University, specializing in school mental health and LGBTQ issues. With over 10 years of bilingual clinical and supervisory experience, he has worked extensively with children and adolescents in NYC schools. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator in Molloy University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. 

Dr. Hudson Elmore explains how Ketamine is being used in psychotherapy. He unpacks how patients are prepared for its use, what it's really like inside a ketamine therapy session, and the profound ways in which it can unlock trauma,treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Beyond the inapropriate uses of Ketamine, we take a close look at its utility in the treatment process and the trepidation that folks may have. Dr. Elmore is a Clinical Adult Psychiatrist, who serves as the medical director at Being Health, an integrated mental health practice in New York City. He has expertise in ketamine therapy and oversees interventional services at Being Health, where they offer IV and IM ketamine therapy as well as Spravato (intranasal esketamine). Dr. Elmore completed his training in Adult Psychiatry at New York University School of Medicine and Bellevue Hospital Center in New York City. He holds a Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine. www.beinghealth.co

This episode features Kevin Dahill-Fuchel, LCSW, a leader in school-based mental health, discussing how counseling supports the emotional well-being of students, families, and educators. We explore why emotional health is foundational to learning, how schools can become safe spaces for connection, and what’s needed to engage all constituents—students, teachers, and administration—with compassion and clarity. Given the rampant social anxiety amongst students and the cell-phone-free experiment in NYC schools, this rich discussion addresses how this program helps students find independence and individuality. Dr. Kevin Dahill-Fuchel is a leader in school-based social work programming with more than 30 years of experience in working with children, families and school staff. Throughout his tenure as the Executive Director of Counseling In Schools (CIS), Kevin has led the process to evolve CIS’ mission beyond counseling services to include a multi-dimensional and strength-based menu of services that support an entire school community. A team leadership model is his focus within the organization that embodies the non-oppressive, collaborative systems that are needed to effectively take on the complex challenges routinely faced in schools by children, families, teachers and administrators.

Dr. Meyers, a survivor and expert on sibling abuse has an informal, impromptu conversation with Lorene Stanwick, also a sibling abuse survivor and prior guest. Together, they explore the ways that trauma becomes imprinted, the lens through which survivors see themselves, others, and the word, and the utility of therapy towards healing. They discuss the imperative for the survivor to develop deep self-awareness towards moving beyond the internalized voice of the sibling harmer and receive genuine, healthy communications and relationships with others. They also address the work that remains to spread awareness while offering hope through example.

Will Wright, a Certified Life Coach discusses his stuckness in survival mode and how he shifted from just existing to thriving. He shares how he showed up with a false self in his life and at work, fueled by his need for validation. With deep introspection, humor, and genuine selflessness, Will takes us through his development of self-confidence, his process towards self-actualization, and how his method is now serving others.

Group formation and treatment requires thoughtfulness and awareness of the multiple dynamics at play including therapist to each individual client, the group as a whole, and the individual clients' reactions to each other and the group leader. Transferences and countertransference are abound. When guided skillfully, the evolving patterns, connections, conflicts, and collective reflections become catalysts for growth. From group screening to structuring and facilitating groups, Dr. Ray Blanchard informs us about the multidimensional aspects of group management. Whether you are a therapist, group member, or simply want ot learn more about the various group dynamics we are all part of including families, school, etc., this episode is for you. Dr. Ray Blanchard earned his PhD in Counseling from Montclair State University, specializing in school mental health and LGBTQ issues. With over 10 years of bilingual clinical and supervisory experience, he has worked extensively with children and adolescents in NYC schools. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator in Molloy University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program.

Change is scary. Because it infers facing the unknown. And there is a lot of resistance to it. How can we learn to embrace and face it with confidence rather than fear? Dr. Meyers addresses making change within ourselves through her own path of risk-taking and pushing through discomfort. You too can turn insecurities into self-assurance.

What happens when two therapists sit down for a candid, impromptu conversation about the personal challenges of working with clients? In this episode, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the world of therapy—where the experts swap stories, share insights, and reflect on their internal lives while supporting others. Expect honest dialogue, relatable humor, and practical wisdom as they discuss the human side of being a therapist. Ruthie Kalai, LCSW has worked for over twenty years with children, adolescents, and adults.Her passion for working with people in their 20s and 30s stems from her years of working with children and adolescents in schools. www.ruthiekalai.com

Jane Epstein is more than a survivor of sibling sexual abuse: she’s a voice for hope, healing, and breaking silence. In this episode, Jane shares her story while turning her pain into purpose. During her empowering stint as an exotic dancer and her marriages, she learns much about her self-esteem and the impact of her earlier experiences on her approach to intimacy. Jane Epstein is a staunch advocate for survivors of Sibling Sexual Abuse and Trauma. Today, Jane is Co-Founder of both IncestAWARE.org and 5WAVES.org, an international 501(c)3 advocacy group that offers information, support, and guidance about Sibling Sexual Abuse and Trauma. She shares her story publicly to give other survivors the courage to speak up and know they are not alone. Through her work, Jane seeks to educate and empower parents on preventing sibling sexual abuse and trauma, aiming to remove the fear of the unknown and make body safety discussions between parents and children an everyday conversation. Her powerful TEDx talk spreads awareness and opens dialogue on this taboo subject. Her story was featured in People Magazine, and she contributed to The Sunday Times Magazine cover story on March 17th, 2024. Her memoir, I Feel Real Guilty, was released in the Fall of 2024 www.jane-epstein.com siblingsexualabusetrauma.com

We’re diving deep into the realities of interracial relationships — the highs, the hurdles, and the healing that can come from love across cultural lines. Meet Dassin and Stephanie Blackwell who are quite reflective on their relationship and the privileges they have and the challenges they have faced as an interracial couple. With genuineness and awareness, they share their obstacles they have navigated within their family system and greater society. Join us as we talk about the beauty of blending different worlds; navigating identity, assumptions, and unconscious bias; what makes these relationships not just possible, but powerful. Whether you're in an interracial relationship, curious about the dynamics, or just open to hearing honest perspectives, you will learn and be inspired to embrace diversity. Dr. Dassin Blackwell, a lifelong educator, coach, and athletics administrator with over 20 years of experience working across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III. Currently, I serve as the Assistant Director of Athletics Compliance and Director of Sprint Football Operations at St. Thomas Aquinas College, where I lead academic support, NCAA eligibility, and holistic development for more than 450 student-athletes. My foundation in athletics began on the field as a student-athlete at Towson University. That moment not only defined my playing career, but also deepened my belief in the transformative power of sport. As a coach for 20 years, I had the privilege of being part of two conference championship teams and coached for a national championship, helping student-athletes achieve success at the highest levels both on and off the field. Throughout my career, I’ve held leadership roles at institutions including Georgetown, Towson, Pace, Hofstra, Frostburg State, Iona University. My work has included everything from managing NCAA compliance and GSR reporting to implementing department-wide systems like SPRY and mentoring first-generation student-athletes. I earned my Ph.D. in Educational Management from Hampton University, and my passion lies in bridging the worlds of athletics and education. Stephanie Blackwell is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Master Social Worker with a commitment to fostering positive change. Stephanie received her Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University in 2024, along with receiving a Specialized Certificate in Crisis and Resilience and her CASAC-T Certification. She received her Bachelor’s in Social Work at Molloy University in 2023. In 2022, she was awarded BSW Student of the Year by the New York State Social Work Education Association. Stephanie currently serves on the NYSSWEA Board as Vice President. She also serves on the Molloy University Alumni Association Board. Stephanie is the Lead Clinician at Lincoln Hall, where she supports adolescent boys who have crossed U.S. Borders unaccompanied, searching for a better life in the U.S.

Are you effected or not effected by food allergies? Either way you need to become more informed. Food allergies affect much more than what ends up on the plate—they’re deeply woven into the emotional fabric of households, shaping the experiences of kids, parents, adults, and entire families. In this heartfelt, practical episode, we explore those hidden layers from socialization, quality of life and self-esteem. Folks suffer from anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Dr. Dennis educates us all on why we need to become more informed, how we can find resilience, and manage countertransference around the "right" way to intervene. You can learn more about Dr. Dennis at ksdfamilysolutions.com and email her at drdennis@ksdfamilysolutions.com A resource:https://www.foodallergycounseling.org/ Dr. Kelly Sullivan Dennis is a licensed clinical social worker with a PhD and over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups across the lifespan. She serves as an assistant professor in the Social Work Department at Molloy University, where she teaches both undergraduate students and graduate students through the Fordham-Molloy MSW Collaborative. Her academic work is informed by her clinical expertise and her dedication to fostering inclusive, justice-driven social work practice.In her clinical work, Dr. Dennis supports clients coping with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic illness, and major life transitions. She has a special interest in working with children and families to help manage complex issues such as food allergies, chronic illness, and family system challenges. Her approach is strengths-based and integrative, drawing on evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-focused intervention, play therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused counseling.Throughout her career, Dr. Dennis has worked in a wide range of settings, including schools, mental health centers, community agencies, parent resource centers, libraries, and places of worship in order to bring mental health support into the heart of the community. She is also an active community educator, leading workshops on grief and loss, trauma, crisis response, parenting children with complex needs, and navigating life with food allergies.Dr. Dennis is a proud member of the Academy of Food Allergy Counseling (AFAC) and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Her work is guided by a strong commitment to social justice, human rights, and the belief that every individual deserves dignity and access to compassionate, competent care.

Do you doubt your abilities? Feel like a fraud? And yet, there isn't evidence that you're a failure? You're struggling with imposter syndrome, a phenomenon affecting up to 70% of adults at some point with 25–30% of high achievers suffering regularly. Imposter syndrome doesn’t just sap confidence—it can fuel burnout, anxiety, and perfectionism that hold you back . If you've ever thought, “Soon they’ll find out I’m not really that good,” this episode is your proof that you’re far from alone—and far more capable than you believe. In this episode, Dr. Meyers shares her own experiences with imposter syndrome and offers guidance on how to manage the feelings. Reclaim your sense of belonging, and celebrate your real accomplishments.

Judith Belmont, MS is a psychotherapist and author who offers practical approaches to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through examples, she translates CBT principles into user-friendly tools for personal growth, emotional wellness, and mental health education. Her work focuses on helping people identify and challenge negative thought patterns, build healthier habits, and improve self-esteem. With actionable strategies her approach helps to manage anxiety, stress, and everyday challenges. www.belmontwellness.com; amazon.com/author/judithbelmont

Mary Anne Cohen, Director of the New York Center for Eating Disorders, coined the term "emotional eating". In this episode, she offers a nuanced perspective on Ozempic acknowledging its potential to provide relief from compulsive eating yet cautions that this benefit is only part of the story: the need to adress the deep emotional wounds at the heart of many eating disorders. She warns that Ozempic can feed dangerous cultural narratives that equate thinness with moral or emotional worthiness—reinforcing stigma around body diversity and compounding shame. Although we are still learning all of the information around weight-loss drugs, Cohen feels that Ozempic must be paired with a comprehensive personal strategy and invites us to think critically

There's a lot we can understand about the sibling abuse experience and outcome for the survivor through a theoretical lens. Dr. Meyers presents the theories in a digestible manner that helps anyone seeking to learn more about themselves or survivors and how relationships can be challenging. There is a bright side: resiliency is addressed as is therapy as an imperative measure to leading a more satisying life and a sense of self-worth.