What Your Therapist Is Reading ®

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. On this weeks episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Jessica Zucker about her book Normalize it: Upending the Silence, stigma and Shame that Shapes Women’s Lives, (affiliate link) which examines women’s experiences from girlhood through menopause, including miscarriage, body image, motherhood, and friendship, and aims to dismantle the silence, stigma, and shame surrounding them. Highlights Unspoken Pain and Joy Replace Silence with Stories Miscarriage Stigma and Shame Motherhood Without a Village Three-part framework—acknowledge it, share it, normalize it Menopause Friendship Grief and Loneliness About the author Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. Jessica is the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Vogue, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She’s been featured on NPR, CNN, The Today Show, and Good Morning America and earned advanced degrees from New York University and Harvard University. Her second book, NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women’s Lives, is out now and available everywhere books are sold.  

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This week on What Your Therapist is Reading, psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler is talking with Hannah DeGroot and Khara Croswaite Brindle about their book “Your Enneagram and Money: Transforming Enneagram Edges into Financial Freedom”(affiliate link). Talking about money can be difficult and bring a variety of feelings up for people. During this episode we explore how pairing the Enneagram with money is relational and practical. Understanding ourselves can be helpful in moving forward with our money goals. Highlights: Enneagram Basics Deep dive into some of the type examples Financial Therapy Meets Enneagram Types of Money Patterns Tools to Reduce Money Shame About the authors: Hannah DeGroot is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Enneagram Coach, Executive Coach and co-author of the book Your Enneagram and Money: Transforming Enneagram Edges into Financial Freedom. In her practice, she uses the Enneagram to help individuals find passion, motivation, and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives.  Khara Croswaite Brindle is the published author of nine books who is passionate about passionate about turning pain points into possibilities.  This means she loves talking about topics that others wish to avoid like leadership trauma, client suicide, and money shame.  As a Social Enneagram Type Three Wing Two, perfectionist, certified financial therapist and serial entrepreneur who specialists in working with helping professionals, she is the co-author of the book Your Enneagram and Money: Transforming Enneagram Edges into Financial Freedom.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler, psychotherapist and book enthusiast, chats with Dr. Randall Alfino about his book “Listening in the Raw: Coming Home to Receptivity", which emphasizes deep, empathetic listening and the importance of vulnerability in fostering genuine human connections. Dr. Alfino shares personal anecdotes about reading and listening from his own life, exploring how true listening involves stripping away defenses and embracing curiosity and innocence. The discussion also touches on the psychospiritual dimension of listening and its transformative power in therapy and everyday relationships. Highlights: Personal Stories and Impact of Reading Deep Dive into 'Listening in the Raw' Practical Examples of Listening The Role of Innocence and Vulnerability About the author: Dr. Randal Alifano has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is an Ordained Minister with over 40 years of integrating psychology and spirituality in his private practice. He has worked with a diverse group of people at various stages of their lives, listening to their dreams and aspirations, their traumas and confusions, and their desire to live life more attuned to their own inner wisdom. And he has loved doing it his entire career. Over the decades, he has studied numerous theories and methodologies—both psychological and spiritual—and they have all filtered down to inform who he is and how he works. Today we will be discussing his book Listening in the Raw: Coming Home to Receptivity.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler chats with Dr. Robert Jason Grant about his book “AutPlay Therapy Play and Social Groups: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Model” co-written with Tracy Turner-Bumberry. Dr. Grant explains the importance of respecting neurodivergent children's play preferences and avoiding imposing neurotypical standards on them. The conversation covers the concept of neurodiversity, practical examples of affirming care, and details about group therapy models that involve both children and their parents. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about providing affirming care to neurodivergent individuals and are given guidance on how to apply these principles in their practice. Highlights: Discussing and understanding Neurodiversity Understanding Play Therapy through this lens Group Therapy Models Practical Applications and Final Thoughts About the author: Dr. Robert Jason Grant is the creator of AutPlay® Therapy. He is a therapist, supervisor, and consultant and utilizes several years of advanced training and his own lived neurodivergent experience to provide affirming services to children and their families. He is an international trainer and keynote presenter and multi-published author of several articles and books. He is currently serving on the board of directors for the Association for Play Therapy.

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookdspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.   In this episode of 'What Your Therapist is Reading,' host Jessica Fowler chats with Dr. Margo Lowy, a psychotherapist, about her book 'Maternal Ambivalence: The Loving Moments and Bitter Truths of Motherhood.' We dive into the complexities of maternal ambivalence, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and understanding conflicting feelings in motherhood. Dr. Lowy shares personal anecdotes and insights into how these mixed emotions, including the darker ones, can fuel maternal love and growth.  The impact of societal ideals on mothers and the importance of self-compassion and personal reflections in parenting is explored. Highlights: The Concept of Maternal Ambivalence The Good Enough Mother Postpartum Depression vs. Maternal Ambivalence Guilt vs. Shame   About the author: Margo Lowy, PhD, is a psychotherapist specializing in mothering. She is the author of MATERNAL AMBIVALENCE: The Loving Moments & Bitter Truths of Motherhood (Post Hill Press) and holds a doctorate from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, where she researched maternal ambivalence. Dr. Lowy is the author of a previous academic book, The Maternal Experience: Encounters with Ambivalence and Love, and has spoken about maternal ambivalence at universities and in media interviews worldwide. She is a member of PEN America and a former advisor to the founder of the Australian Jewish Fertility Network (AJFN). She is mother to three children and is based with her husband in New York City.

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist, about her book 'Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: The Attachment Theory Guide to Raising Kids in Two Homes.'(affiliant link) Aurisha and Jessica talk all things about co-parenting. Aurisha outlines the structure of her book, including the six Cs of cooperative co-parenting, and provides insightful examples of real-life co-parenting challenges and solutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on the child's well-being, managing personal triggers, and shifting from a romantic relationship mindset to a co-parenting mindset. The episode also touches on practical tips and resources for parents and therapists alike. Highlights:  Diving into Cooperative Co-Parenting Attachment Theory and Co-Parenting Personal Experiences and Examples The Co-Parenting Triangle About the author: Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified co-parenting coach, mediator, and mother, with a clinical practice in Los Angeles, CA. She is the award winning author of Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: The Attachment Theory Guide to Raising Kids in Two Homes. She specializes in working with co-parents, couples, and individuals. As a co-parent herself, she is very familiar with the challenges faced by parents raising kids in two households. For more than 15 years, she has drawn on attachment theory and other modalities to help clients move from conflict to cooperation, make child-centered agreements, and create a secure co-parenting two-home family system. She has been featured in Vogue, Newsweek, Huffington Post, and Parents among others.  She lives with her daughter and cat and sees clients both virtually and in person.

After todays episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Amanda Ann Gregory about her book 'You Don't Need To Forgive: Trauma Recovery on Your Own Terms.'(affiliate link). Amanda, a trauma psychotherapist, discusses all things forgiveness. They explore Amanda's definition of forgiveness as a fluid, process-oriented experience rather than a definitive end-point. The conversation extends to Amanda's personal and professional journey dealing with trauma, the importance of finding safety before addressing forgiveness, and practical ways trauma survivors can address external pressures to forgive. The episode includes a discussion of therapeutic strategies for trauma recovery, including EMDR, somatic therapy, and community support groups. Both trauma survivors and clinicians are encouraged to approach forgiveness and healing with flexibility and openness. Highlights: Personal Stories and Impact of Reading Diving into the Book: You Don't Need To Forgive Defining Forgiveness and Its Challenges Exploring Trauma and Recovery Practical Advice for Trauma Survivors and Clinicians The Importance of Safety in Trauma Recovery   About the author: Amanda Ann Gregory is a trauma psychotherapist renowned for her work in complex trauma recovery, notably as the author of You Don’t Need to Forgive: Trauma Recovery on Your Own Terms. With a keen focus on the specific needs of trauma survivors, Gregory's expertise spans over 17 years in clinical practice. Gregory holds clinical licenses in Illinois, Missouri, and Texas, alongside EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and National Counseling certifications. She has been featured in The New York Times, National Geographic, and Newsweek and published in Psychology Today, Psychotherapy Networker, and Chicken Soup for the Soul. She practices in Chicago, Illinois, and lives in the city with her partner and their sassy black cat, Mr. Bojangles.  

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler speaks with Christine Mark-Griffin, LCSW about her book” EMDR Coloring and Activity Book for Kids”, (affiliate link) which integrates therapeutic techniques into fun and engaging activities. Christine shares insights on EMDR therapy, especially for children, and highlights how the book uses interactive elements to make therapy approachable and playful. The episode also covers the book's practical applications and its potential benefits for kids and therapists alike.   Highlights Discussing the EMDR Coloring and Activity Book Personal Memories of Interactive Books Incorporating EMDR in the Coloring Book Explaining EMDR Therapy for Kids Practical Applications of the Coloring Book Using the Coloring Book in Therapy Differences Between the Workbook and Coloring Book   About the author: Christine Mark-Griffin is a licensed clinical social worker, EMDRIA approved consultant and advanced trainer. She is the author of EMDR Workbook for Kids and founder of EMDR For Kids. The mission of EMDR for Kids is to empower therapists, parents, and children of all ages with resources, tools, and training to overcome trauma & adversities.

*Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, so we are starting October with The Adult Side of Dyslexia (affiliate link) by Dr. Kelli Sandman Hurley.  The discussion covers the long-term impact of dyslexia on individuals, particularly focusing on adult experiences and the lack of resources available post-school years. Dr. Hurley shares insights from her interviews with adults who have dyslexia, revealing the emotional and psychological challenges they face. The episode emphasizes the importance of early intervention, proper support, and self-advocacy for individuals with dyslexia to improve their quality of life and mental health. Listeners are encouraged to consider the lifelong effects of dyslexia and the role educators and therapists can play in supporting affected individuals. Highlights The Adult Side of Dyslexia and How the Book Came To Interview Insights and Key Findings Personal Stories and Experiences Challenges and Advocacy Resources and Support for Adults About the author:  Kelli Sandman-Hurley, Ed.D. is the author and founder of the Dyslexia Training Institute. She co-created and produced “Dyslexia for a Day: A Simulation of Dyslexia,” as well as writing the well-received books, Dyslexia Advocate! How to Advocate for a Child with Dyslexia within the Public Education System, Dyslexia & Spelling: Making Sense of it All and The Adult Side of Dyslexia.

 ”Experiencing racism is dysregulating…and so a lot of people have that freeze response…and so this book kind of allows people to think through, okay, even if I did freeze in the moment, there are still things that I can do afterwards”. -Dr. Pearis Jean   *After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast on social media to learn about the latest giveaway.   *Informational shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.   In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Pearis Jean about her workbook Strategically Navigating Anti-Black Racism in Professional Spaces: A Practical Guide for Black People Responding to Racism in the Workplace. (affiliate link) Dr. Jean, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Towson University, discusses her research and the development of the SNAP model (Strategically Navigating Anti-Black Racism in Professional Spaces). The conversation also delves into the importance of community and the emotional and psychological tools necessary for addressing workplace racism. Highlights: Discussing the Book: Navigating Racism in Professional Spaces The SNAP Model Explained Reflective Questions and Community Support Best Practices and Research Insights Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts   Connect with the author instagram About the author: Dr. Pearis Jean is an assistant professor of psychology at Towson University and a licensed psychologist in the state of Maryland. Her research focuses on the development of individual and community-level interventions to support the wellness of survivors of trauma with a focus on the Black community. She is the author of a workbook based on her research on anti-Black racism and racial trauma in the workplace entitled, Strategically Navigating Anti-Black Racism in Professional Spaces: A Practical Guide for Black People Responding to Racism in the Workplace.

“Well, you have to talk to them different than maybe you did when they were 10, and you have to do it without the questions, and you have to be respectful. So, the sarcastic comments have to go because that's not real inviting.” Janet Edgette, PhD. *This episode is for mental health professionals.*After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.  In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler discusses Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents alongside Dr. Janet Edgette.  Dr. Edgette is an experienced psychologist and author. She shares insights from her new book 'Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents: Helping Teens in Therapy Thrive in an Ultra-Competitive, Screen-Saturated World,' highlighting effective ways to engage with teens in therapy by being authentic, respectful, and avoiding a question-based approach. She emphasizes the importance of talking 'with' teens rather than 'at' them, addressing real issues, and fostering genuine communication. The episode also delves into how cultural expectations about adolescence often lead to misunderstandings and provides practical advice for therapists and parents on how to build stronger connections with teenagers. Highlights Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents Engaging Teens in Therapy Addressing Disrespect in Therapy Handling Noncompliance Building Credibility with Teens Respecting Client Autonomy Challenging Teen Stereotypes Effective Parent-Teen Communication Modern Approach to Teen Therapy Connect with the author: Facebook Instagram About the author: Janet Sasson Edgette, Psy.D., M.P.H. is a psychologist, author, workshop leader, and speaker from the Philadelphia area, working with teenagers and consulting to their parents for over thirty five years in her Philadelphia-based private practice. She is the author of seven books, her most recent one being Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents: Helping Teens in Therapy Thrive in an Ultra-Competitive and Screen- Saturated World. Others include Adolescent Therapy That Works: Helping Kids Who Never Asked for Help in the First Place and Stop Negotiating With Your Teen: Strategies for Parenting Your Angry, Manipulative, Moody or Depressed Adolescent.   For much of her career, Janet has focused on offering therapy services to young people that they actually value and respect, and want to participate in, eliminating the miserable and degrading tug of war and other power struggles many clinicians endure when working with this population. She has been teaching her approach, Modern Teen Therapy for more than three decades to audiences through the US and Canada as well as to other teen therapists in her online coaching/mentorship program.   Janet received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, PA and a masters in public health from the University of Oklahoma. She is a native New Yorker, the mother of three young men, an avid equestrian (show jumping), and a lover of all dogs, especially pit bulls and Bullmastiffs.

..."The commitment to change involves more than the desire"...-Angela Wood After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler is speaking with Angela Wood, Ph.D. about her book The Motivational Interviewing Workbook: Exercises to Help You Decide What You Want and How to Get There. (affiliate link) Dr. Wood, an experienced clinical social worker and academic, discusses the origins and applications of motivational interviewing, a counseling approach that helps individuals facilitate personal change through self-reflection and guided questioning. They delve into the key stages of motivational interviewing: focusing, evoking, and planning, and highlight the importance of understanding one's values and motivation for sustained change. Additionally, the episode touches on the impact of reading and writing on Dr. Wood's life, her experiences with depression, and the role of community in maintaining personal growth. Highlights  Personal Impact of Reading Understanding Motivational Interviewing The Change Process and Workbook Exercises Maintaining Change and Community Support   About the author: Dr. Angela “Angie” Wood earned her MSW from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1992, and a Ph.D. in social work from Tulane University in 2006. She has been a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, working in a variety of behavioral health settings such as addictions, mental health, criminal/juvenile justice, and family preservation. As a workshop trainer for over 20 years, Dr. Wood has presented on topics such as clinical supervision, motivational interviewing, and addictions. Her research interests include the dissemination and implementation of motivational interviewing across practice settings. Dr. Wood is an assistant professor in social work at Southeastern Louisiana University. As a member of the international Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers since 2016, Dr. Wood has conducted over 100 workshops related to motivational interviewing and is the author of The Motivational Interviewing Workbook: Exercises to Help You Decide What You Want and How to Get There.          

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. We are starting season 8 with Teaching With A Strength-Based Approach: How to Motivate Students and Build Relationships (affiliate link) by Steven Baron, Psy.D., which seems fitting as we are in the swing of back to school. Dr. Barons, a seasoned school psychologist and private practice therapist, shares insights on how highlighting students' strengths can significantly impact their success and well-being. The discussion includes practical strategies for educators to incorporate strength-based methods in their classrooms, emphasizing the long-term positive effects these relationships can have on students.    Highlights from this episode:   Strength-Based Approach in Education Real-Life Application: A Success Story The Importance of Positive Teacher-Student Relationships Practical Strategies for Teachers The Role of Teachers and Parents in Child Development About the author: Steven Baron, Psy.D., was a school psychologist for thirty years in elementary and secondary settings.  He currently treats children, teenagers, and families in private practice.  Previously, Steve worked in mental health clinics and hospital settings and is currently a college adjunct.  Steve has authored book chapters and journal articles on positive psychology and child psychotherapy.  He recently published a book, Teaching With A Strength-Based Approach: How To Motivate Students And Build Relationships, by Routledge.  In the book, Steve presents research on the impact of the teacher-student relationship on students and shares methods on how teachers can use this connection to help students identify and utilize their assets, even those they may not be aware of.   Steve has presented to local and national conferences, school districts, and community organizations.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler interviews education writer Natalie Wexler about her book "The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America's Broken Education System—and How to Fix It.  (Affiliate Link) Wexler explains that many elementary schools, especially since the rise of high-stakes testing around 2000, have reduced time spent on history, social studies, and science in favor of practicing transferable reading “skills” like finding the main idea. Drawing on cognitive science, she argues these skills depend heavily on prior knowledge and vocabulary, and that building knowledge through coherent, topic-based instruction improves reading comprehension by reducing working-memory load (cognitive load theory). In addition, we discuss we explore how mental health and education are connected.   Highlights: What the “Knowledge Gap” Is—and How Elementary School Got Here Why “Reading Skills” Don’t Transfer: The Cognitive Science of Comprehension Inquiry vs. Instruction: How Education Ideology Collides with Learning Science Working Memory, Cognitive Load, and Why Background Knowledge Matters History & Science Scores, Missing Context, and the “Mental Velcro” Effect Mental health and education 18:30 What Parents & Communities Can Do: Knowledge-Building Curricula and Advocacy 22:07 Standards, Teacher Autonomy, and the Curriculum Problem No One Talks About 25:32 Why Therapists Should Care: Shame, Identity, and a Reno Classroom Breakthrough 29:58 Engagement Benefits: Behavior, Curiosity, and Kids Loving to Learn 32:07 Natalie’s New Book + Connecting Reading, Writing, and Content Learning 34:23 Wrap-Up, Where to Find More, and Podcast Disclaimer About the author: Natalie Wexler is an education writer who has spoken before a wide range of audiences in the U.S. and elsewhere, focusing on literacy, cognitive science, and fairness. She is the author of Beyond the Science of Reading: Connecting Literacy Instruction to the Science of Learning and The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America’s Broken Education System—And How to Fix It, and the co-author of The Writing Revolution: A Guide to Advancing Thinking Through Writing in All Subjects and Grades. She is the host of “Reading Comprehension Revisited,” which is Season One of the Knowledge Matters Podcast.

After todays episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Christina Cipriano, PhD. about her book Be Unapologetically Impatient: The Mindset Required to Change the Way We Do Things. (Affiliate Link) Dr. Cipriano, shares ways to work toward inclusion with her own stories and the science on how to change the way we do things. Highlights from this episode: 3:19: Dr. Cipriano shares about an experience that brought to light the idea of challenging the status quo and how to impact change. 3:44: Dr. Cipriano shares about her life that lead to this book and some of her personal experience specifically around disability. 7:52 Dr. Cipriano shares an example of how to engage people and how to pull them in instead of calling them out. 8:58: We discussed this idea of "waiting to fail" that often is needed prior to kids receiving services. 14:11: We discuss the idea of knowing yourself when you have interactions while advocating for your kids. 18:24: Dr. Cipriano shares what community members can do to be more inclusive. 24:27: Dr. Cipriano shares who the book is for. About the author: Christina Cipriano, Ph.D., is an associate professor of Applied Developmental and Educational Psychology at the Yale Child Study in the Yale School of Medicine and Director of the Education Collaboratory at Yale University. An award-winning scholar and internationally regarded expert in the science of learning and development, Dr. Cipriano received her Ph.D. from Boston College, her Ed.M. from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and undergraduate degree from Hofstra University. A prolific public scholar, educator, and speaker, Chris brings her positionality as a first-generation high school graduate and mother of four children to her science and work.  

Trigger warning: This episode is for mental health professions and we will be discussing client suicide.   *Information shared in this episode is for informational and educational purposes only.  In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler is speaking with Khara Croswaite Brindle, MA, LPC, ACS, CFT about her book Moving from Alert to Acceptance: Helping Clinicians Heal from Client Suicide. (affiliate link) This book covers suicide assessment and safety planning in a way that takes the fear out of asking. In this episode, we explore how Khara writes client stories and therapist stories of healing. We explore how impactful this event is to clinicians and the struggles that can be had while trying to heal. About the author Khara Croswaite Brindle, MA, LPC, ACS, CFT is passionate about giving people aha moments that create goosebumps and catalyze powerful action. She is a TEDx Speaker, licensed mental health therapist, and financial therapist in Colorado. Khara enjoys various roles as a serial entrepreneur, 2x Amazon #1 Best-Selling Author, professional speaker, professor, and consultant. Khara specializes in helping therapists and financial therapists turn pain points into possibilities through consultation, courses, and supervision. She is originally from the Pacific Northwest and gets her best ideas walking outside and being around water. When Khara’s not writing her next book or supporting fellow professional helpers on their own self-discovery journeys, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, reading, and indulging in gluttonous, gluten-free desserts with her family. 

Trigger Warning for todays episode as we are discussing cancer diagnosis, treatments, and the potential impact of these experiences on individuals and families. After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about our latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for information and eductional purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Lori Elliot Sacks about her book Unlucky Lori: A Raw and Unfiltered Look at One Woman's Battle with Ovarian Cancer and How HOPE Wins.  In this book, Lori shares her journal of over almost a decade about her experience of going through treatment for Ovarian Cancer and then also being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. In this episode, listen is as Lori shares about the difficult times and how she has coped to continue to live a life she wants. She shares examples of ways she could take control in times that it could be difficult.  Lori shares her excitement for life and love of her family, while managing her own struggles through her illness.  Take a listen as Lori shares the insights that have helped her along the way.  About the author: Lori Elliot Sacks: Trouble free and flying high- was Lucky Lori!  I have been a Hospice Nurse, a Therapist, and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. However, the role of patient and ovarian warrior continues to challenge me daily . It demands patience and positivity. This memoir is intense-BEWARE.. but full of HOPE and GRATITUDE.    

After todays episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about our latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Larissa Nickson, LCSW, PMH-C, RYT 200 about her book I Hold You In My Heart: A Children's Book & Parent Guide to Helping Children Cope with Loss.  In this book, the characters explore and navigate difficult emotions like grief, sadness and anger and along the way learn different coping strategies.  Highlights from the episode: 3:46 Larissa shares how the book is for children and parents to explore loss and shares some examples of the coping skills that are taught in the book. 4:59 Larissa shares a little about her story of grief and what inspired the book. 6:25 Larissa shares how she choose to use the word loss, so this book can be used in a way that it can be about losing anything. 8:37 Larissa shares who the book is for. About the author: Larissa Nickson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience helping children and adults. She is certified to work with women in the perinatal period and specializes in working with people who experience pregnancy loss and birth trauma. In memory of her daughter, she was inspired to write a children’s book about loss to help families learn about ways to cope with grief.   

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about our latest giveaway. *Information shard in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Arielle Jordan about her book United We Serve, United We Heal: A Practice Guide to Healing Racial Trauma. (affiliate link) In this book, Dr. Arielle sheds light on the racial trauma, offering a path to healing that is both personal and communal.   Highlights from the episode: 4:04: Dr. Arielle provides strategies and insights that have to do with racial trauma and empower individuals to start the conversation. 5:05: Dr. Arielle shares how she sets up the book and her STARS framework with includes self-awareness, thought patterns, authenticity, radical acceptance and success. 8:26: Dr. Arielle shares and example of how to use the STARS framework. 11:23 Dr. Arielle shares how her book can be for other organizations as well. 16:56: Dr. Arielle shares who her book is for. About the author: Dr. Arielle Jordan shares her expertise as a trauma therapist and Army veteran. She brings over nine years of experience as a licensed clinical professional counselor, specializing in EMDR, PTSD, grief, and resilience. Founder of Mindset Quality and ArielleNJordan.com, Dr. Arielle's work centers on creating spaces where people feel supported to heal, grow, and thrive. As an author of Holding Space and United We Serve, United We Heal, her insights on overcoming adversity and mental wellness are both empowering and relatable. Learn more at ariellenjordan.com.        

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about our latest giveaway. If you are enjoying these episodes, please leave us a 5-star review. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Pamela Lowell about her book, My Summer With The Ospreys: A Therapist Journey Toward Hope, Community and Healing Our Planet. Through her book, Pamela guides the reading through the connections between therapy, life as an artist and the natural world as a place of healing. Highlights from the episode: 4:36 We discuss some of the science behind the benefits of being in nature. 7:39 We discuss Pamela bring a trauma lens to her experience and how mother earth has been traumatized.  What would Mother Earth say if she showed up in her therapy office? 15:10 Who this book is for. 17:13 How therapist integrate nature into their work. About the author: Pamela Lowell, MSW, LICSW, has treated complex emotional trauma for almost four decades in private practice. She has also served as a clinical director, consultant and trainer for not-for-profit agencies. Lowell is an astute observer of both human behavior and the natural world. In her latest book, My Summer with Ospreys, she weaves together observations and personal experiences into an exciting narrative as a passenger on the Lucky Me along with the scientists of Mass Audubon, and a cast of dedicated volunteers. With her original watercolor illustrations throughout, her journey towards hope, community and healing our planet is one that can inspire us all to be better stewards of our ever-changing world.