The Holistic Counselor

In this powerful conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP—founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching—sits down with Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S, clinician, author, and advocate for reconciliation in divided times. Together, they explore the intersection of politics, mental health, and spiritual healing—without taking sides. Kelsey is the author of The And Way: Assertive Peacemaking in a Divided World (now available for preorder) and co-hosts Love Anyway Gatherings through Search for Common Ground—spaces where people of all backgrounds learn to "talk and listen without losing themselves." From family rifts to online echo chambers, Diana and Kelsey unpack how we can stay human in the middle of the mess and rediscover hope in a polarized world.  Key Topics How internal family systems (IFS) and "parts work" help us understand political and relational conflict The And Way™ model: combining dialectics, compassion, and boundaries Why fear is false evidence appearing real—and how to calm your nervous system when triggered How to practice assertive peacemaking in everyday conversations Recognizing when your "protector parts" are overactivated and learning to respond from Self-energy Reframing conflict as connection: "You don't have to pick the relationship or being right forever—you choose one in each moment." Healing through holistic practices: movement, rhythm, journaling, and nature How media algorithms fuel anxiety—and how to curate your digital diet for mental peace  Featured Quotes "My favorite phrase is, 'It makes sense.' Because it starts with being able to acknowledge my fear makes sense—and their fear makes sense. That's why the AND is so critical." — Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S "We need to remember: United we stand, divided we fall. We can have all the therapy and medication in the world, but until we learn to respond in wisdom instead of reactivity, we'll stay stuck." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP  Resources Mentioned  The And Way Press: https://theandwaypress.com  Search for Common Ground / Love Anyway Gatherings: https://www.sfcg.org  Braver Angels (Mental Health Workshops): https://braverangels.org  All Sides News: https://www.allsides.com  Tangle News: https://www.readtangle.com  Ground News: https://ground.news  What Happened to You by Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey  The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz  Closing Reflection This episode reminds us that healing division starts inside us. Whether you lean red, blue, or "elephonkey purple," the call is the same: humanize before you analyze. As Kelsey says, self-healing leads to world-healing.  Connect Follow Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW-S: https://theandwaypress.com Learn more about her practice: The And Way Therapy (serving Texas & Florida) Follow Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP:  Through the Valley Therapy  Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching  The Holistic Counselor Podcast on YouTube

Episode Summary Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. I'm your host, Diana S. Rice, licensed mental health counselor and founder of Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. Welcome back to The Holistic Counselor Podcast—the space where faith, science, and holistic healing come together for grounded, real conversations about mental health, purpose, and personal growth. As we enter this Valentine's season, remember: love isn't only something we give—it's something we intentionally cultivate within. The way we nurture our minds, bodies, and spirits shapes how we show up for others—and how we heal. In today's episode, I sit down with Sara Brenker, LCSW, a South Florida-based therapist and co-founder of Modern Care Collective, a practice known for its warm, direct, and collaborative approach to healing. Sara has spent years working as an individual therapist, clinical director, and crisis-stabilization specialist. She integrates CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), strengths-based approaches, and motivational interviewing to help clients rebuild self-worth, address shame, and navigate recovery from addiction and identity loss. This conversation moves through the grey space between faith, trauma, and transformation—and asks us to re-imagine healing as both clinical and spiritual.  Key Themes The connection between addiction, shame, and identity loss How addiction can show up as behavior, people-pleasing, or performance—not just substances Living in the "grey zone" instead of the extremes of shame or denial How faith communities can hold love and disappointment at the same time Why outpatient harm-reduction models save lives How authenticity and selective self-disclosure build trust in therapy Learning to sit still with discomfort and letting healing unfold  Resources Mentioned Modern Care Collective – therapist-run practice based in East Boca Raton, offering outpatient and telehealth care for clients in Florida https://www.moderncarecollective.com/  CBT & DBT explained: CBT helps identify distorted thoughts and create healthier behaviors. DBT teaches distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. The Trevor Project – 24/7 support for LGBTQIA+ youth → thetrevorproject.org SunServe Wilton Manors – South Florida resource for LGBTQ+ affirming mental-health support → sunserve.org Faith-Integrated Therapy – find trauma-informed, holistic Christian-based therapists via openpathcollective.org or psychologytoday.com filters  Takeaways Healing begins with safety. When stories are met with compassion, shame loses power. Faith and therapy coexist. Grace and groundedness are both essential. Addiction hides behind perfection. Even "high-functioning" lives can mask deep pain. Therapist fit matters. Don't give up on therapy—try a different provider or approach. Love is cultivation. The inner work you do becomes the love you offer outwardly.  Connect & Share Follow and tag on socials: #throughthevalleytherapy #theholisticcounselorpodcast #transformedmindcc #holistictherapy #faithbasedcounseling #mentalhealthpodcast #addictionrecovery #shamefree #therapyworks #dbt #cbt #selfhealing #faithandscience  Final Word "To every listener: you're not alone. You're loved. Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind." — Diana S. Rice Listen now on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Playlist → The Holistic Counselor Podcast

Marijuana today is not the same as it was decades ago. In this critical episode, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, sits down with John Puls, LCSW, MCAP—addiction expert, professor, and co‑founder of Full Life Comprehensive Care—to unpack the rising crisis of THC‑induced psychosis in teens and young adults. Drawing from both professional and personal experience, Diana shares her journey from teenage marijuana use in Broward County to her later trial with medical marijuana—and how it affected her mental health. Together, they break down the difference between traditional cannabis and today's lab‑altered THC concentrates, including Delta‑8, dabs, vapes, and edibles. Whether you're a parent, clinician, teacher, or someone navigating your own recovery, this episode offers essential education, compassion, and real‑world tools to protect the next generation. Listen Now Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holistic-counselor/id1732149496 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssTwH8qi9uw Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TesqwMwiVYTeS0Ns9nMLo?si=a2588b2f57ef4b0e About the Guest – John Puls, LCSW, MCAP John Puls is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Master's Certified Addiction Professional. He is the Co‑Founder and COO of Full Life Comprehensive Care in South Florida, an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University, and an expert witness for legal cases involving substance use, addiction facilities, and mental health. Specialties include: Substance use disorders & co‑occurring mental health disorders Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Motivational Interviewing Family Systems Therapy & Trauma‑Informed Care Forensic reviews & expert witness consulting Learn more at https://full-life-comprehensive-care.com/ What We Discuss Diana's personal story: from early marijuana use to medical THC and recovery The difference between old‑school cannabis and today's high‑potency THC products What cannabis‑induced psychosis looks like and why it's often misdiagnosed as schizophrenia How vaping and concentrates drastically raise risk for teens The neurological impact of THC on the developing brain How clinicians can respond even if they don't specialize in substance use Educating parents, teachers, and communities without shame or fear Preventing clinician burnout while working with complex cases The role of early prevention and informed consent in schools and homes Practical tools and resources for healing, regulation, and resilience Mentioned Resources & References Full Life Comprehensive Care – https://full-life-comprehensive-care.com/ Every Brain Matters – https://everybrainmatters.org/ Johnny's Ambassadors – https://johnnysambassadors.org/ SAMHSA (Marijuana & Mental Health) – https://www.samhsa.gov/marijuana CDC Marijuana Health Advisory – https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/index.html Florida Department of Health – Medical Marijuana Program – https://www.flhealthsource.gov/mqa/medical-marijuana/https://knowthefactsmmj.com/ National Institute on Drug Abuse – Cannabis Research – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-are-marijuanas-effects-on-general-physical-healthhttps://nida.nih.gov/search/cannabis%20?sort=_score&language=en Episode 88 with Mark Astor  Key Quotes "Some of these kids get Baker Acted and come out with a schizophrenia diagnosis—but what they're really experiencing is a substance‑induced psychotic episode." — John Puls "I tried medical marijuana thinking I was doing something holistic—and instead, I became more anxious, detached, and dysregulated." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC "Parents don't realize—Delta‑8 isn't your backyard weed. These are ultra‑processed, ultra‑potent THC chemicals. One hit can alter a developing brain." — John Puls Connect with John Puls Website: https://full-life-comprehensive-care.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-puls-800261123/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/full_life_cc/ Related Episodes Ep 88: Baker Act, Marchman Act & Guardianship in Florida with Mark Astor Subscribe & Share If you found this episode helpful: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Share it with a parent, educator, or fellow clinician Follow and tag: #throughthevalleytherapy #theholisticcounselorpodcast #transformedmindcc Podcast Mission The Holistic Counselor Podcast bridges faith, science, and holistic healing—challenging stigma, equipping listeners with tools for growth, and encouraging trauma‑informed conversations across diverse communities.

Host: Diana S. Rice — Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Guest: Sindy Love — Present Mama Coach, founder of Live Loved Mom, host of the top-10% Live Loved Mom podcast Why listen: New year, fresh grace. If you're a Christian mom battling mom guilt, hurry, hustle, and comparison, this episode blends faith + brain-based tools to help you renew your mind, abide in Christ, and build real-life rhythms that actually work. Episode at a Glance (What You'll Learn) The 3-step faith framework for mom guilt: Renew (Romans 12:2), Abide (John 15), Connect (biblical community). How cPTSD/trauma & culture can shape mom guilt—and what healing looks like with Scripture, therapy/coaching, and community. Presence practices for busy moms: micro-Sabbaths, breathwork, weekly/monthly "refuel" rhythms, and Scripture-anchored reframes. Coaching vs. counseling: clear scope, red flags that mean "therapy first," and how both can work together ethically. The mindset shift from performance-based to surrender-based motherhood (Galatians 1:10). Quality Quotes  (Diana S. Rice) "Think of me as your psycho-educational trainer." "If you don't make the time for your wellness, you're going to be forced to make time for your illness." (Sindy Love) "I call myself a recovering people pleaser." "You are perfectly loved, you are free, Mama, walk in freedom." Resources & Links Mentioned (Everything in One Place) Sindy Love Present Mama Coaching & free 3-day devotional: https://livelovedmom.com Live Loved Mom Podcast (start with Ep. 75 featuring Diana): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/75-motherhood-mental-health-faith-based-healing-and/id1744966331?i=1000728394824 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelovedmom/ Diana S. Rice Through the Valley Therapy (clinical): https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching: https://transformedmindcc.com The Holistic Counselor Podcast playlist (YouTube): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQFWkIv_9U7NrmG0k-EE1FOSCiMDlIXPo&si=h_A6eN556qSotNfe Tools & Education ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Questionnaire (overview + questionnaire): https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html "Brain health" framing (Daniel Amen): https://www.amenclinics.com "Emotional concussions" (Dr. Don Wood / Inspired Performance): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ Community MomCo (formerly MOPS) — local mom groups: https://www.momco.org  Books (mentioned in this episode) Women of the Word — Jen Wilkin (how to read Scripture in context) https://www.crossway.org/books/women-of-the-word-tpb/ Uninvited — Lysa TerKeurst (rejection, people-pleasing, identity) https://www.zondervan.com/p/uninvited/ The Gift of Being Yourself — David G. Benner (true self in Christ, spiritual formation) https://www.ivpress.com/the-gift-of-being-yourself  Scriptures Referenced Romans 12:2 (renewing the mind) John 15 (abide in the vine) John 10:10 (life to the full) Romans 8:1 (no condemnation) Luke 5:16 (Jesus withdrew to pray) Galatians 1:10 (audience of One) Psalm 46:10 (be still) Networks/Origin Story Women's Leadership Network (GLN): https://globalleadership.org Key Topics & Timestamps 00:02:37 — Sindy's early mom-guilt story: anxiety from pregnancy through daycare/school decisions; roots in childhood trauma. 00:06:15 — Social media + comparison: pressure cooker for modern moms; the need to process cPTSD with faith and skills. 00:21:54 — The 3-Step Process: Renew thoughts with God's Word → Abide in Jesus → Connect in community. 00:31:59 — Martha mode vs. Mary posture: moving from performance to surrender; asking "am I pleasing people or God?" 00:45:28 — Coaching vs. Therapy: Sindy's scope as a coach, referral to counseling when trauma/postpartum flags are present. 00:53:17 — Stillness & Sabbath: breathwork, Scripture in context, micro-rest to actually hear the Lord. 00:58:25 — Closing encouragement: freedom from guilt and shame in Christ; Romans 8:1. Practical Takeaways (Save These) Daily 3-Minute Reset: 30s breath (inhale 4, exhale 6) → 60s Scripture reframe (Rom. 12:2 / John 15) → 60s gratitude prayer → 30s next right step. Weekly/Monthly Refuel: schedule one weekly joy practice (beach walk, call a friend) and one monthly extended reset (half-day retreat or extended prayer walk). Put it on the calendar. Reframe Prompt: When shame hits: "Are these thoughts true? Do they agree with God's Word?" Then replace with Scripture. Connection Rule: Don't do motherhood alone—find a MomCo group or a local church small group. Scope Check: If you notice persistent depression, postpartum concerns, trauma flashbacks, or safety issues—start with therapy; add coaching later for goals/habits. About Our Guest Sindy Love is a Christian Life Coach, wife, boy mom, and founder of Live Loved Mom. Her Present Mama Coaching helps Christian moms release guilt, embrace purpose, and cultivate presence in Christ. She hosts the Live Loved Mom podcast (top 10% globally). About Your Host Diana S. Rice is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. Her mission: glorify God, break mental-health stigma in churches and BIPOC communities, and offer  evidence-informed tools for whole-person healing. Work with Sindy / Freebies Sindy's free 3-day devotional + coaching info: https://livelovedmom.com

In this conversation, Anna Marie Lopes—abuse-recovery & post-traumatic growth coach, founder of Brave & Free, and Engagement Director at the Healing & CPTSD Community Hub—shares her journey from witnessing domestic violence and surviving an abusive marriage to building a global community that helps survivors reclaim voice, identity, and freedom. We talk CPTSD vs. PTSD, spiritual abuse, self-advocacy in healthcare, and practical nervous-system regulation tools that supported her healing, all through a faith-informed lens. Mission fit: The Holistic Counselor Podcast exists to break stigma in churches and BIPOC communities by bridging faith, science, and holistic wellness—and Anna's story models that integration in real life. What you'll learn What CPTSD can look/feel like day-to-day—and why many survivors only get "anxiety/depression" labels How spiritual abuse hides in plain sight, and how to disentangle faith from manipulation Practical tools Anna used to move through flashbacks, hypervigilance, and body memories How community care (support circles, survivor-led spaces) accelerates healing When coaching helps, when licensed therapy is essential, and how they work together A faith-anchored reframe: separating God's character from people who misuse scripture Notable quotes (Anna) "Be your own brave. The next courageous step is yours—and it may look different than anyone else's." "For me, the first thing was to differentiate God from men… just because someone uses the Bible doesn't mean God is a reflection of that person." "It was as if I was in a constant state of danger—hypervigilant… then the flashbacks and nightmares started." "I've been in therapy and on medication for over 10 years—healing is a long journey." "Self-advocacy matters. Trust your gut. If a diagnosis doesn't fit, keep asking questions." Notable quotes (Diana) "Hey there, fearfully and wonderfully made humans." "We're never going to receive 100% healing on this side of Earth… If we did, I would not need Jesus Christ as my Savior." "Sometimes we chase the healing… and that becomes an idol." "Every human is raised by a village—and if the village has unhealthy dynamics, it's going to affect you." "You gotta get into the Word. Yourself. Not just what someone else says." "I have a hundred tools. I don't know which will work for you—I'm here as a guide." "Turn off that rectangle that's wrecking people. Be still and know… journal what comes up." "Be a curious observer of yourself—without shame." "Please trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind." Links & resources mentioned Connect with Anna Instagram — @iambraveandfree: https://www.instagram.com/iambraveandfree Coaching w/ Anna (abuse-recovery & post-traumatic growth): https://braveandfree.co/trauma-coaching Rediscovering Yourself After Abuse (e-workbook): https://braveandfree.co/rediscoveringyourself CPTSD education & community Healing & CPTSD Community Hub: https://www.healingandcptsd.com/ Free CPTSD Awareness Kit (The Healing & CPTSD Foundation): https://www.healingandcptsd.com/free-guides  DV identification & safety Power & Control Wheel (Duluth Model): https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wheels/understanding-power-control-wheel/ PDF: https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/PowerandControl.pdf The Hotline (U.S., 24/7): https://www.thehotline.org/ | Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | Text START to 88788 UAE help & reporting (includes helplines like DFWAC 800-111): https://gulfnews.com/living-in-uae/safety-security/how-to-report-domestic-violence-in-the-uae-and-get-help-1.500207174 Official UAE emergency guidance: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/justice-safety-and-the-law/handling-emergencies Dubai Foundation for Women & Children (DFWAC): https://findahelpline.com/countries/ae/du/topics/abuse-domestic-violence Maitri (culturally-specific support for South Asian survivors, U.S.): https://maitri.org/ Books we referenced The Body Keeps the Score — Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/313183/the-body-keeps-the-score-by-bessel-van-der-kolk-md/ Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving — Pete Walker (incl. 13 Steps for Managing Flashbacks): https://pete-walker.com/complex_ptsd_book.html | https://www.pete-walker.com/13StepsManageFlashbacks.htm Twisted Scriptures: Breaking Free from Churches That Abuse — Mary Alice Chrnalogar: https://www.amazon.com/Twisted-Scriptures-Mary-Alice-Chrnalogar/dp/0310234085 Related episodes on this theme  Ep 10 — Overcoming Domestic Violence: Biblical, Christian & Secular Counseling (Dr. Johnson) Ep 58 — Exposing Abuse in the Church (Rebecca Davis) Ep 66 — Escaping Spiritual Abuse & Church Trauma (Sowania Germain) Ep 90 — Christian Spiritual Abuse & Recovery (Naghmeh  Abedini Panahi) Safety note If you're in immediate danger, call local emergency services. In the U.S., contact The Hotline 24/7: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | thehotline.org | text START to 88788. In the UAE, DFWAC 800-111 and the official channels above can help. You are not alone.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) aren't just "therapist jargon"—they're evidence-based tools you can use today to renew your mind, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and live with more clarity and confidence. In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS talks with Dr. Lisa Napolitano—licensed psychologist, mindfulness teacher, and President of the Florida CBT Association—about reframing stigma in therapy, tackling perfectionism and imposter syndrome, and practicing self-validation. This conversation offers practical tools you can use right now to reshape your thoughts, regulate your emotions, and create a life worth living. Quotes from the Episode Diana: "Because when we challenge our thoughts, we transform our behaviors, and in turn, our lives." Diana: "Do not forget to trust in the Lord, guard your heart. And renew your mind." Dr. Napolitano: "The most powerful way… to change your behavior is positive reinforcement, not beating yourself up, not chastising yourself." Dr. Napolitano: "To effectively treat suicidality, we've got to get people invested in life. Help them build what she calls the life worth living, a life that reflects your values." Key Topics Covered The Two-Column Technique for overcoming imposter syndrome and confirmation bias Common cognitive distortions like mind-reading, "should" statements, and personalization How perfectionism feeds analysis paralysis—and the Continuum Technique to break free DBT skills: mindfulness, self-validation, and building a life aligned with your values Why exercise and mindfulness are first-line supports for anxiety and depression Resources Mentioned  Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns, MD → Amazon link  Never Good Enough: How to Use Perfectionism to Your Advantage Without Letting It Ruin Your Life by Monica Ramirez Basco → Amazon link  The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook by Matthew McKay, Jeffrey Wood, Jeffrey Brantley → Amazon link  Free CBT Thought Record Worksheet (Beck Institute) → Download PDF  List of Cognitive Distortions (Therapist Aid) → View Here  Meditation App — Insight Timer (free)  Fitness/Mood Tracking — Strava Connect with Dr. Lisa Napolitano Website: drlisanapolitano.com Instagram: @drlisasays CBT/DBT Associates: cbtdbtassociates.com Florida CBT Association: floridacbt.org Connect with Diana Therapy (Florida residents): Through the Valley Therapy Consulting & Events: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching Podcast Playlist (YouTube): The Holistic Counselor Podcast  If this episode encouraged you, please rate and review on Apple Podcasts so others can find faith-aligned, evidence-based support. And don't forget to share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today.

In this deeply vulnerable episode, Christian therapist Diana S. Rice, LMHC interviews Naghmeh Abedini Panahi about the untold story behind the Save Saeed movement. She reveals how her role as a public advocate concealed the trauma she was enduring, and how she slowly recognized spiritual, emotional, and physical abuse. We discuss how purity culture can mute God-given alarms, why "submit at all costs" is destructive, and what faith-rooted healing really looks like. If you've ever felt unseen in your trauma or silenced by church structures, this is for you. This episode includes sensitive discussion of domestic violence and spiritual abuse. What You'll Hear / Learn The hidden abuse behind public ministry and advocacy How purity culture suppresses internal warning systems Distinguishing biblical submission from enabling sin The ways churches often protect appearances at the expense of people Practical steps toward safety, boundaries, and healing after abuse Recommended books, ministries, and frameworks for recovery Quotes Naghmeh Abedini Panahi "You're not supposed to submit to abuse and corruption." "Follow your Savior, do what He does, and God will fight your battles." Diana S. Rice, LMHC "It's become a high-controlling religion, and not the pure relationship of Jesus Christ, who does set us free." "It's like your check engine light is on… until your body finally shuts down." Resources & Links Mentioned Helplines & Safety National Domestic Violence Hotline — call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788. thehotline.org Women in Distress (Broward County, FL) — local 24/7 support, advocacy & shelter: widbroward.org Faith-Based / Christian Support Called to Peace Ministries — spiritual abuse resources, church training, survivor support calledtopeace.org Tahrir Alnisa Foundation (TAF) — ministry by Naghmeh supporting women and children impacted by abuse tahriralnisa.org  Books & Frameworks for Recovery The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft The Emotionally Destructive Marriage by Leslie Vernick Is It Abuse? by Darby Strickland Power & Control Wheel (Duluth Model PDF) — helps map abusive dynamics [PDF link] Related Episodes from The Holistic Counselor Ep. 10: Untangling the Threads: Biblical, Christian, and Secular Counseling — Overcoming Domestic Violence (Dr. Kate Johnson) Ep. 58: Exposing Abuse in the Church (Rebecca Davis) Ep. 65: Healing Trauma Through Faith: How to Reclaim Identity & Hope (Rebecca Medina) Ep. 70: Leaving an Abusive Christian Marriage (Leesha Newkirk, JD) Ep. 77: Reclaiming Biblical Sexuality After Trauma & Purity Culture (Dr. Carol Tanskey) Call to Action If you were moved by this conversation: Share this episode with someone who may need to hear the hope you're hearing. Bookmark the resources above — especially hotlines and Christian support ministries. Subscribe + review The Holistic Counselor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your app of choice. Your ratings and shares help others find this content in search. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call your local emergency number or reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline—don't walk this path alone.

On this New Year's Eve episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP sits down with Dr. Don Wood, PhD, creator of the TIPP (Inspired Performance Program), to explore how unresolved trauma becomes a "high-definition" memory loop and how a 4–5 hour TIPP session plus 30 days of audio can reboot the brain for calm and performance. We unpack emotional concussions, the role of faith and culture in healing, and practical tools you can apply today—without shame. Perfect for clinicians, church leaders, and anyone seeking trauma-informed, integrative mental health. Standout Quotes "There's nothing wrong with you. Anxiety, depression, addiction—those are symptoms, not your identity." — Dr. Don Wood "Trauma is stored in high definition. When we reset the resolution, the nervous system stops calling for action on old information." — Dr. Don Wood "We don't paint over rust—we sand it down, prime it, then paint." — Dr. Don Wood "God designed us to heal. The question is: what's interfering with the healing?" — Diana S. Rice Resources Mentioned Inspired Performance Institute (IPI) – Home: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ TIPP Digital (30-day program): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/tipp-digital/ About Dr. Wood / IPI: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/about-us/ In-Person & Zoom Sessions (Orlando): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/in-person/ Books by Dr. Don Wood Emotional Concussions  You Must Be Out of Your Mind  Don't Mess With My DNA — new title (coming soon; watch IPI updates): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ Episodes & Articles Mentioned Kwik Brain w/ Dr. Don Wood (the interview that sent Diana down the rabbit hole): https://www.jimkwik.com/podcasts/kwik-brain-transforming-stressful-life-events-into-motivation-with-dr-don-wood/ Brainz Magazine – Trauma & DNA (Executive Contributor, Dr. Wood): https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/the-impact-of-trauma-on-dna-understanding-the-transgenerational-effects Brainz Magazine – Healing Trauma & Rebooting Biology (2025): https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/healing-trauma-and-restoring-youth-with-a-therapy-that-reboots-your-biology Connect with Dr. Don Wood Website & Programs: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ TIPP Digital: https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/tipp-digital/ In-Person / Zoom (Orlando): https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/in-person/ Connect with Diana Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS — Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching. Mission: Breaking mental-health stigma in Black/Brown communities and church spaces by bridging evidence-based therapy, holistic wellness, and faith. Subscribe, rate, and share to help others find trauma-informed, faith-honoring care. Happy New Year! 

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide, mental health crisis, and involuntary commitment. Need Help Now? Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) — available 24/7, free and confidential support. For Florida-specific help, contact 211.org or your local mobile crisis unit.  "We are not here to hurt people—we're here to help them. And sometimes, that means telling the hard truth." – Mark Astor On this special Christmas Eve episode, Diana sits down with Mark Astor, a behavioral health attorney and former prosecutor, for a deep, transparent conversation about Florida's most misunderstood legal tools: The Baker Act The Marchman Act Guardianship Law As therapists, clinicians, and families navigate the complexities of crisis care and involuntary intervention, this episode offers a non-judgmental, trauma-informed lens on what these laws really mean, when they should be used, and how they can be misused. If you work with teens, adults with co-occurring disorders, or simply want to understand how Florida law intersects with mental health, this episode is a must-listen.  What You'll Learn: The key differences between the Baker Act vs. Marchman Act How the Guardianship statute is being used in younger populations Why clinicians must understand their legal power—and its consequences How to protect client rights without abandoning ethical care The risks of profit-driven crisis facilities and what sovereign immunity really means Real stories of misused legal action, trauma, and redemption What to do if a loved one has been detained, misdiagnosed, or neglected in the system  Resources Mentioned: Mark's Website: MentalHealthAddictionLawFirm.com BakerActAttorneys.com Office Phone: 561-419-6095 Follow Mark on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, IG, and TikTok  Notable Quotes: "The Marchman Act is not a punishment. It's a last-resort tool for families whose loved one's brain has been hijacked by addiction." – Mark Astor "You're not alone. I promise you—there are people who want to help, but you have to pick up the phone." – Mark Astor "I've seen teens Baker Acted who come out with more trauma than they went in with. This isn't a dig at the law—it's a cry for wisdom in how we apply it." – Diana Rice "Recovery is like the stock market—up and down, but trending up if we support it right." – Mark Astor "Faith without action in these systems doesn't protect our clients. We must be both wise and willing to learn." – Diana Rice  A Holiday Reflection from Diana: "Christmas can stir up both joy and pain. If you're listening to this today, remember—healing doesn't stop for the holidays. Sometimes the most loving gift we can give is the courage to take action, even when it's hard."  Listen & Share: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you stream.  Subscribe to The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Follow on Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS sits down with Lidiana Cartolano, LMHC, M.Ed.—a bilingual Portuguese/English therapist and founder of VIVA Psychotherapy in Boca Raton, Florida. Together, they discuss the unique mental health challenges faced by Brazilians and Portuguese-speaking immigrants, including immigration stress, family role pressures, cultural stigma, OCD, and faith-based misunderstandings. Lidiana also shares practical tools such as TF-CBT, play therapy, sandtray, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). This conversation also highlights the Brazilian Mental Health Professionals Collective (BMHP)—the first organized network of its kind in the U.S., designed to increase access to culturally sensitive mental health providers who serve the Brazilian community. As the year comes to a close, this episode invites you to reflect on the importance of community, culture, and connection in your own mental health journey. Featured Quotes "If God gives us doctors to heal our bodies, He also gives us therapists to heal our minds." — Lidiana Cartolano, LMHC "A regulated parent can help regulate a child—but when the parent is dysregulated, that's often an unhealed part of themselves showing up." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC Resources & Links Mentioned Brazilian Mental Health Professionals Collective (BMHP): www.bmhp.org VIVA Psychotherapy (Lidiana's practice): www.vivapsychotherapy.com Conexão Presente (Portuguese MBSR / Mindfulness playlist): YouTube Playlist The Holistic Counselor Podcast (Diana's podcast website): www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Book Mentioned: When Narcissism Comes to Church by Chuck DeGroat Episode Chapters 0:00 — Intro, year-end reflection, review/share CTA 2:30 — Lidiana's journey: Psychologist in Brazil → LMHC in the U.S. 10:00 — Immigration stress: breadwinner pressure, family role shifts, burnout 13:30 — Second-generation struggles: bullying, perfectionism, OCD 21:30 — Family systems in therapy: play therapy & sandtray 31:00 — Cultural fit: language, spirituality, warmth in the therapy room 36:00 — Tools & modalities: TF-CBT, MBSR, play therapy, sandtray 54:00 — Brazilian Mental Health Professionals Collective (BMHP) 1:05:00 — Portuguese closing message & resources 1:07:00 — Outro Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate & review the show and share it with a friend. Your support helps others—especially in Brazilian and Portuguese-speaking communities—find culturally aligned care and resources.   Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Summary Feeling numb, burned out, or stuck in your head? In this episode, Cathy Williams, a Movement & Expressive Arts Therapist and founder of Intuitive Self in Melbourne, Australia, shares how somatic therapy, intuitive movement, and expressive arts can help you reconnect with your body, regulate emotions, and release stored trauma. We explore body mapping, breathwork, music-supported healing, vicarious trauma, and embodied social justice—all through a faith-friendly, evidence-informed lens. About Our Guest Cathy Williams is a Movement & Expressive Arts Therapist, facilitator, trainer, and award-winning author. She founded Intuitive Self and works with adults worldwide through workshops and 1:1 sessions. Her book, Body Wisdom: A Guide to Connecting with Your Intuitive Self, blends story, poetry, and practical guidance for reconnecting with body and heart. Website: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/ About Cathy: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/about-cathy Book (paperback/e-book): https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/product-page/book-body-wisdom Audiobook (Google Play): https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details/BODY_WISDOM_A_guide_to_connecting_with_your_Intuit?hl=en_US&id=AQAAAEDSLStt6M Audiobook (Libro.fm): https://libro.fm/audiobooks/9798882345166-body-wisdom Audiobook (Barnes & Noble): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/body-wisdom-cathy-williams/1144490979 Key Topics & Timestamps 00:00 — Show intro and mission 02:45 — Cathy's "why": from community development to somatic & arts-based work 11:20 — What somatic movement therapy is (and isn't) 20:30 — For numb/disconnected clients: breath as anchor; gentle body scan 24:50 — Body mapping: turning sensations into color/shape 33:10 — Music as a container for safe exploration 46:10 — The Five Rhythms arc: Flow → Staccato → Chaos → Lyrical → Stillness 55:30 — Embodied social justice: how systems live in the body 1:03:36 — Cathy's book Body Wisdom and how to work with her online 1:11:52 — Closing encouragement: "Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, renew your mind." Try-It-Today Tools 60-Second Breath Check — Notice your breath without changing it. Micro Body Scan — Crown → jaw → shoulders → chest → belly → hips → knees → feet. Body Map Card — Draw a simple outline and mark sensations with colors/lines. Song-Length Intuitive Move — Let one body part lead to instrumental music. Anger Circuit — 30s stomping + 30s shaking + 6 deep breaths + journaling. Resources Mentioned Tamalpa Institute (Anna & Daria Halprin): https://www.tamalpa.org/ 5Rhythms (Gabrielle Roth): https://www.5rhythms.com/gabrielle-roths-5rhythms/ Amber Elizabeth Gray: https://ambergray.com/ Documentary Born Into Brothels: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0388789/ Work With Cathy Global 1:1 sessions and practitioner trainings: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/ Work With Diana / Media Therapy (Florida only) — Through the Valley Therapy Consulting, Coaching & Events — Transform Mind Consulting & Coaching Podcast guest pitches — mission-aligned only (faith + science + holistic healing).  Contact Diana: diana@throughthevalleytherapy.com Sponsors — Partner With Us Our audience: clinicians, coaches, faith-informed wellness seekers, community leaders. Perfect fit: CEU platforms, mental health tech, somatic/breathwork trainings, ethical supplements, counseling resources, journaling tools, clean wellness brands.  Media kit & inquiries: diana@throughthevalleytherapy.com (Subject: "Sponsor — Holistic Counselor Podcast")

 Welcome, fearfully and wonderfully made human! This episode is more than just educational—it's deeply personal. Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, shares how a YouTube rabbit hole back in 2020 (after someone she loves was diagnosed with OCPD) unexpectedly led her to Darryl Rossignol's videos. Fast-forward five years later—she realized the man behind that life-changing content is now sitting across from her, mic-to-mic. In this full-circle, faith-filled conversation, Diana and Darryl explore the lesser-known but incredibly impactful world of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD). Together, they unpack the core traits, how it differs from OCD and narcissism, the stigma around getting help, and how healing is possible.  About Today's Guest: Darryl Rossignol After struggling with OCPD traits since childhood, Darryl spent over a decade deconstructing his personality disorder and putting the pieces back together. In 2015, he launched a YouTube channel to document his healing journey. The videos reached tens of thousands—offering language, clarity, and hope to those suffering in silence. In 2022, Darryl founded The OCPD Foundation with the support of leading mental health professionals. The foundation is now a central hub for education, resources, and support for individuals living with OCPD and those who love them.  What We Cover in This Episode: What is OCPD? How does it differ from OCD? Why is it so often misdiagnosed, dismissed, or misunderstood? Why is it hard for those with OCPD to seek therapy? How can OCPD affect relationships and faith communities? OCPD vs. narcissistic traits: what's the real difference? How can partners, clinicians, and family members support someone with OCPD? The role of self-awareness and spiritual growth in recovery Darryl's full-circle story of transformation and advocacy  Quotes to Remember:  Darryl Rossignol (Founder, The OCPD Foundation) "It's not that I had OCD—I had OCPD. And the distinction between the two changed everything about how I understood myself." "Healing from OCPD isn't about becoming someone else. It's about learning how to manage your wiring, so you can stop hurting yourself and the people you love."  Diana S. Rice, LMHC "I was watching your YouTube videos five years ago, not realizing that God would bring this full circle—and now I get to talk to the person who helped me make sense of it all." "As therapists, we often overlook OCPD because it doesn't look like what we're trained to spot. But for the client, it's a constant internal war of 'not enough."  Resources & Mentions:  The OCPD Foundation — articles, videos, screening tools, therapist directory  Darryl's YouTube Channel  POPS Self-Assessment  The Healthy Compulsive by Dr. Gary Trosclair  DSM-5-TR Diagnostic Criteria for OCPD (APA)  OCD vs OCPD  Feeling Seen? Here's What to Do Next: Subscribe to the podcast & leave a review! Share this episode with a friend, spouse, or therapist Visit ocpd.org to take the self-assessment or explore support tools Connect with Darryl via YouTube or email: darryl@ocpd.org Need therapy in Florida? Learn more at ThroughTheValleyTherapy.com Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Hello there, fearfully and wonderfully made human. I'm Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, and the host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast—where faith, science, and holistic healing intersect. Today's episode is especially for first responders—and the loved ones who support them. Whether you serve as police, firefighter, EMS, paramedic, military, nurse, therapist, or teacher—you know the toll trauma takes. Even those of us who aren't running into burning buildings feel the weight of vicarious trauma in our daily callings to serve. That's why I'm honored to welcome Steve Campana, Hanley Foundation's First Responder Liaison and retired EMS Captain from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Alongside his therapy dog, Mac, Steve now helps first responders and veterans struggling with addiction, PTSD, and substance use disorders find healing and hope. What You'll Learn in This Episode Steve's journey: From a 12-year-old police cadet to serving 30+ years in Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. The hidden toll of trauma: Pediatric codes, car wrecks, shootings, and vicarious trauma that first responders carry. Addiction in the firehouse culture: Why "suck it up, buttercup" led to self-medicating and how recovery changed Steve's life. The Big Book of AA: Why recovery is a spiritual program rooted in humility, not just abstinence. Hanley Center's approach: Trauma-informed, 12-step immersive care that includes CBT, DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy. The Patriots Initiative: Specialized peer groups for first responders, veterans, and ER professionals. Therapy dogs in recovery: How Mac the therapy dog provides comfort, connection, and hope on campus and in children's hospitals. Tools for leaders: How firehouses, EMS teams, and police departments can create cultures where "I'm not okay" is safe to say. Resources & Links Mentioned Hanley Foundation & Hanley Center Website: Hanley Foundation Programs: Hanley Center Treatment Services Alumni Services & Patriots Initiative information available through Hanley Recovery & Trauma Resources Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book: Read Online EMDR Therapy: EMDR International Association DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy): Learn More Here CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Patient Pamphlets Therapy Dogs & Certification American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Alliance of Therapy Dogs Paws & Stripes Emergency Support & Peer Groups Alcoholics Anonymous – Find a Meeting Al-Anon Family Groups National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Contact Steve Campana (Hanley Center First Responder Liaison)  Phone: 561-841-1171 About Today's Guest: Steve Campana Steve is a retired EMS Captain with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue and now serves as the First Responder Liaison at Hanley Foundation. With over 30 years of frontline experience, he understands the culture, struggles, and resilience of first responders. Having overcome his own battles with addiction, Steve now walks alongside first responders and veterans in recovery—offering practical resources, peer support, and hope. Together with his therapy dog, Mac, he brings comfort to those carrying invisible wounds. About Your Host: Diana S. Rice I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP), and Qualified Supervisor (QS). Through The Holistic Counselor Podcast, I explore the intersection of faith, science, and holistic healing. My mission is to break the stigma around mental health—especially in faith communities and BIPOC cultures—and empower people to heal with evidence-based tools and Christ-centered hope.  Website: Through the Valley Therapy  YouTube: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Playlist  Email: diana@throughthevalleytherapy.com     Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

"Cancer has been on my radar for decades," shares host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, who has lost her father, sister, mother, and even a childhood friend to the disease. In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Diana sits down with Paul Leendertse, author and founder of the Root Cause Institute, and his wife and co-facilitator Aria Konrad, to explore the 15-Step Real-Self Healing Process — a psycho-emotional approach to cancer that challenges conventional thinking while honoring every individual's journey. Paul, who has spent over 17 years mapping the link between unresolved emotional stress and cancer, reveals patterns he's observed after working with late-stage cancer clients in immersive settings: "Yes, cancer can disappear when you resolve the root cause." Aria adds, "It's not always about quitting everything and moving across the country — sometimes healing starts with a conversation that restores peace in your relationships or routines." In this conversation, you'll learn: How unresolved trauma, chronic stress, and repressed emotions like shame, grief, or anger can impact physical health. Why mind-body-soul alignment is essential for both healing and prevention. What each of the 15 steps addresses, and why forgiveness isn't until Step 11. How this process can complement (not replace) conventional cancer treatments. The surprising emotional patterns linked to specific cancers, including colon, breast, and lung cancer. Diana also shares insights from Chris Wark's Chris Beat Cancer, Bruce Lipton's Biology of Belief, and Bessel van der Kolk's The Body Keeps the Score, connecting the dots between neuroscience, neuroplasticity, and holistic faith-based counseling. Exact quotes from this episode: "You're fearfully and wonderfully made, and you're image-bearers of God. We all have our own unique biology, psychology, and theology." – Diana S. Rice "We have to acknowledge what's not good for us before we can truly heal." – Aria Konrad "Neither the conventional nor the alternative physical approaches get to the root cause — because the root cause isn't physical." – Paul Leendertse Resources mentioned in this episode: Root Cause Institute – Online courses, Root Cause Assessment, and the 15-Step Real-Self Healing Process The Root Cause of Cancer by Paul Leendertse (2010) – Available here Chris Beat Cancer by Chris Wark Biology of Belief by Dr. Bruce Lipton The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Free Webinars & Interviews – Root Cause Institute Free Resources   Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show. Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast

Welcome to The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Human. I'm your host, Diana S. Rice, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, and curious soul who's always asking why. This podcast merges faith, psychology, and whole-person healing—helping you feel loved, understood, and equipped to walk out your God-given purpose. If you're new here, I encourage you to go back and listen to past episodes—including Episode 77, Reclaiming Biblical Sexuality After Trauma & Purity Culture with Dr. Carol Tanksley. Every conversation is a doorway to deeper understanding, and your reviews help others just like you find this content. If you feel led, please leave a quick rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. About Today's Guest Today I'm joined by Kristen Miele, founder and owner of Sex Ed Reclaimed—a faith-based, age-appropriate sexual health curriculum for Christian families with kids ages 3–18. With over 115 biblically grounded video lessons, Kristen equips parents to have ongoing, grace-filled, and practical conversations about sexual health, consent, body safety, relationships, and more. Kristen holds degrees in Public Health, taught human sexuality at a large secular university, and has served internationally as an educator. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband, their two daughters, and two cats. What We Talk About in This Episode Why sex education is not a one-time talk, but a lifelong conversation starting at a young age. How purity culture, silence, and shame have impacted generations—and how to break the cycle. The importance of parents doing their own inner work before teaching their children. Talking about body parts without shame and using correct terminology. Addressing pornography, masturbation, and consent from a biblical yet non-legalistic perspective. How to approach topics like abortion, gender identity, sexting, and sexual safety with truth and compassion. Using real-life teachable moments from media, music, and daily life to start conversations. Equipping kids to make informed, faith-aligned choices in a hyper-sexualized culture. Direct Quotes from the Episode From Diana S. Rice: "This conversation is not a one-time thing. It's something you start at a very young age, age-appropriate, and you keep building on it." "Many adults haven't dealt with their own experiences of how they learned about sex—and that gets passed on to the next generation." "Fear is false evidence appearing real. We want to help people face everything and rise." "It's not about what you believe or what I believe—it's about the listener having critical thinking, getting the information, and finding the help they need to be a healthy member of society." From Kristen Miele: "I was in a place of grief, and the Lord brought beauty from ashes—which is what He does." "You have to look into yourself first before you can do this really well. That means prayer, journaling, conversations, maybe counseling—especially if trauma is part of your story." "My curriculum does not do do's and don'ts. I'm very anti-legalistic sex ed. I teach in a way that gives the option of free will—because that's how God works with us." "If you don't explain why you're turning something off, your kids will go find the answer elsewhere." "We're literally here because of sex. If anything from this podcast resonates, don't leave it here—go do something about it." Resources & Links Mentioned Sex Ed Reclaimed Curriculum – Faith-based, age-appropriate video library for ages 3–18: www.sexedreclaimed.com STOP Acronym for Kids – Shut your eyes, Tell an adult, Open your mind to something new, Play something else (for when encountering inappropriate images) Episode 77: Reclaiming Biblical Sexuality After Trauma & Purity Culture with Dr. Carol Tanksley    Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.   Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, QS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL #MH18034) Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns  Therapy Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com  Consulting & Coaching: www.transformedmindcc.com  Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast  Blog: Liberation Lunes   Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy @theholisticcounselorpodcast    

In this soul-stirring episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP speaks with Aleya Fraser, ethnobotanist, land steward, and author of Caribbean Herbalism: Traditional Knowledge and Modern Herbal Healing. Together, they explore how ancestral plant wisdom, nervous system regulation, and spiritual healing intersect through ritual, relationship with the land, and divine design. If you've ever felt disconnected from your body, your roots, or your spiritual rhythm—this conversation is for you.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: What Caribbean herbalism is and how it honors African, Indigenous, and Southeast Asian wisdom Why "weeds" like dandelion, bee balm, and purslane are medicine for your mind and liver The truth behind bush tea, bush baths, and their emotional and somatic healing powers Why journaling, ritual, and forest bathing matter in trauma recovery The myth of "woo" medicine and how Western science is catching up How to ethically explore ancestral herbal practices—even if you weren't raised in that culture The difference between plant fads and real, rooted, land-based knowledge How slowing down and connecting with plants can transform your mental health  Featured Guest: Aleya Fraser Ethnobotanist | Author | Cacao Grower | Storyteller Aleya blends a formal background in physiology and neurobiology with ancestral plant wisdom passed down from elders. She co-manages Panorama Cacao, a bean-to-bar chocolate farm in Trinidad & Tobago, and leads immersive botanical experiences that reconnect people to the land—and to themselves. Her work was deeply shaped by her mentor Francis Morain, an ethnobotanical elder who taught her how to preserve, document, and honor traditional plant knowledge.  Resources & Links Mentioned  Aleya's Book: Caribbean Herbalism: Traditional Knowledge and Modern Herbal Healing → Buy on Amazon → Find at Barnes & Noble → Ask your local indie bookstore to order it!  Connect with Aleya Fraser: Website: caribbeanherbalism.com Instagram: @naturaleya Substack: naturaleya.substack.com Her site features plant photos, cacao farm tours, and invitations to join her for botanical excursions in the rainforest of Trinidad.  Practical Tools & Takeaways: Bush Tea = fresh herbal infusions made with plants like mint, dandelion, lemongrass, or rosemary Bush Bath = traditional herbal bath + prayer + somatic ritual for full-body healing Forest Bathing = Japanese practice (shinrin-yoku) of slow, mindful nature immersion Plant Journal = track how your body responds to herbs over time Kitchen Herbs You Can Start With: basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, lemon balm  Favorite Quotes: Diana's Drop-the-Mic Quotes: "Do you have ADD, or do you have a nature deficit disorder?" "Weeds are just misunderstood flowers." "You can't just Google something real quick, or believe everything ChatGPT says." Aleya's Drop-the-Mic Quotes:   "Western medicine is built upon traditional knowledge, and you can't forsake one for the other." "Books are important. Slow down." "Faith, respect, and slow observation—that's how you build a relationship with a plant, it's not just a product."  For Therapists & Healers: Learn how to ethically integrate herbalism into your practice Avoid TikTok-level advice—study with elders, not just influencers Respect cultural roots and the ethnobotanical context of healing plants Explore how decolonizing mental health can create deeper transformation  Faith & Neurobiology—Together Diana and Aleya reflect on what it means to live at the intersection of: Scripture + Soil Genesis + Gut Health Spirit-led Healing + Scientific Curiosity The Nervous System + Native Plants Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.  Stay Connected with Diana → Website: throughthevalleytherapy.com → YouTube Playlist: The Holistic Counselor Podcast 

Welcome back, fearfully and wonderfully made human. I'm Diana, licensed therapist and consultant, and today's episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast is a deeply healing conversation that blends faith, trauma recovery, and creativity with one powerful guest: Katana Malone. Katana is an award-winning actress, filmmaker, educator, poet, and founder of Melanated Scribes Publishing. But more than that, she's a mother, a survivor, and a storyteller who's turned personal pain into purpose. Whether you're navigating postpartum recovery, cultural identity, or reclaiming your voice after trauma, this episode is for you.  In This Episode, We Talk About: How postpartum trauma ignited Katana's creative journey Turning grief, loss, and identity struggles into children's books and film Shadow work, EMDR, and reframing old narratives for deep healing The unique mental health stigma in Caribbean and church communities Raising Gen Z and Gen Alpha with emotional intelligence Why storytelling and creativity are critical tools for healing trauma Building safe spaces in education, art, and community work  Tools & Takeaways: You are not broken — you're becoming. Healing requires looking inward and giving yourself grace. Creativity can be both a survival strategy and a spiritual calling. It's okay to rest. Rest is resistance to hustle culture. Therapy isn't weakness — it's wisdom.  Featured Books by Katana Malone: Mommy's Magic – A celebration of maternal love and childhood wonder Mommy's Garden – A poetic journey through emotional healing and growth Rainbow Baby – Helping children process grief after miscarriage His Flowers – A powerful poetry collection honoring men's emotional lives  Available on Amazon and Katana's website: www.katanamalone.com  Resources Mentioned: West Indian Actors Database – Supporting authentic casting in Caribbean film roles Reach Within (Grenada) – Nonprofit supporting youth mental health Verb Kind – Mentorship and volunteer work with incarcerated youth  Connect with Katana Malone: Website: www.katanamalone.com Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter/X: @katanamalone IMDb: Katana Malone on IMDb Books: Search "Katana Malone" on Amazon  Let's Keep Healing Together: Loved what you heard today? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement. Want to learn more about faith-based, trauma-informed therapy and holistic wellness? Visit www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Or book a free 15-minute consult at this link Remember: Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind. Listen to Episode 80 now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you stream your podcasts.   Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice sits down with Meiby Nodarse, LMHC—a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and TBRI® Practitioner with 4KIDS of South Florida. Together, they unpack what trauma-informed parenting really looks like and how the Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI) and EPIC faith-based trainings are transforming foster care families and Christian caregivers across Florida and beyond. We explore the intersection of faith, attachment science, and parenting—from healing early childhood trauma to supporting teens navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. Whether you're a therapist, foster parent, teacher, or someone healing from religious or relational trauma, this episode offers clinical insight and Christ-centered encouragement.  In This Episode, You'll Learn: What 4KIDS of South Florida really does (hint: it's more than foster care!) The heart behind the TBRI® model and why trauma-informed parenting matters The power of EPIC training (Emotional, Physical, Intellectual, Character) for Christian caregivers How to shift from "willful disobedience" to "survival behavior" in parenting What it means to "take thoughts captive" as a parent and therapist Real-world examples of trauma-informed care in foster and adoptive homes How spiritual disciplines and neuroscience work together to rewire the brain Common myths about trauma-informed parenting (and what the research actually says) Ways to support children who self-harm, hoard food, or resist touch due to past trauma How churches and ministries can actively help solve the foster care crisis  Resources Mentioned: 4KIDS of South Florida – Organization supporting foster/adoptive families EPIC Parent Training (FREE) – Trauma-informed, faith-based parenting course TBRI® Overview – Texas Christian University's attachment-based model Trust-Based Relational Intervention® Practitioners List Diana's Neuroplasticity Webinar – Christ in Private Practice Summit Theraplay® – Upcoming modality Meiby is pursuing for deeper parent-child connection Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

Ever feel anxious, ashamed, or overwhelmed by money? You're not alone—and it's not just about numbers. In this powerful episode, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, dives into the emotional roots of financial stress with licensed professional clinical counselor and IFS-informed therapist Jennifer Schrappe, LPCC-S. Jennifer co-leads the program Heal Your Money Stuff and Calm Your Life, helping individuals untangle the hidden emotional and spiritual blocks that keep them stuck in cycles of overspending, avoidance, guilt, and scarcity.  In this episode, we explore: What the Bible really says about money (1 Timothy 6:10) Common "money parts" from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens: the Rebel, Impulsive Spender, Anxious Saver, and Avoider How childhood trauma and cultural beliefs shape adult money habits Why many people fail traditional financial programs like Financial Peace University (hint: it's not about math) How to rewire your money mindset without shame or self-judgment Christian perspectives on wealth, stewardship, and surrender How therapists can help clients explore money trauma and financial shame in session Whether you've lived paycheck to paycheck or you're quietly hoarding out of fear, this conversation offers grace, insight, and practical next steps.  Key Topics: IFS Therapy | Emotional Spending | Christian Money Beliefs | Financial Trauma | Inner Child Work | Scarcity Mindset | Budget Avoidance | Therapy for Financial Shame | Heal Your Money Story | Money and Identity  Resources & Links:  Visit the program: Heal Your Money Stuff and Calm Your Life Facebook Page  Learn more about Jennifer: www.jenniferschrappe.com   Learn about Internal Family Systems (IFS): IFS Institute  Learn more about Financial Peace University: Dave Ramsey's Program  Who this episode is for: Therapists who want to address financial shame with clients Christians questioning what God really says about money Anyone battling impulse spending, money anxiety, or budget burnout Survivors of financial control or abuse Coaches, counselors, and faith-based leaders exploring the intersection of faith and finances    Don't forget to subscribe, rate & review on: Apple Podcasts YouTube Spotify  Connect with Diana: Instagram: @theholisticcounselorpodcast Website: Through the Valley Therapy Coaching & Consulting: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching  "The goal isn't just debt freedom—it's emotional peace, identity in Christ, and freedom from shame." — Diana S. Rice, LMHC  "There's always a reason why people do what they do. There's always a reason why people feel what they feel—and it can be unpacked with much less drama than it may feel inside." — Jennifer Schrappe, LPCC-S Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.

Welcome back to The Holistic Counselor Podcast! In this raw, redemptive, and research-backed conversation, Diana sits down with Dr. Carol Tanksley—a board-certified OB-GYN, ordained minister, trauma-informed coach, and author—to confront one of the most taboo topics in both clinical and Christian spaces: sex, shame, and spiritual healing. If you were raised in purity culture, survived sexual trauma, or are struggling with intimacy in marriage, this episode is a compassionate, evidence-based invitation to heal from sexual brokenness and rediscover God's design for whole-person intimacy.  In This Episode, We Discuss: The trauma impact of purity culture and religious shame Why churches avoid "the sex talk"—and the damage it causes How porn has become our culture's primary sex educator What Scripture really says about mutuality, consent, and the body The neurobiology of shame and how it blocks healthy intimacy Practical tools for healing sexual trauma and toxic religious messaging Helping children and teens develop healthy, faith-informed sexual understanding Somatic healing and rewiring the nervous system through safe connection Rebuilding your image of God after spiritual or sexual abuse  Therapy Meets Theology: Key Insights "If the gospel has nothing to say to the hardest parts of our story, what good is it?" – Dr. Carol Tanksley "You cannot go from 'sex is dirty' to 'sex is holy' just because you got a ring." "Healing begins when shame is brought into the light—with Jesus and with safe others."  Resources Mentioned:  Sex Ed Reclaimed – A Christ-centered sex education course for parents and caregivers  The Sex Talk Series – Video curriculum to help Christian parents talk to kids about sex over a decade-long journey of age-appropriate conversation  Dr. Carol's In-Person Healing Intensives – A 4-day immersive experience combining somatic therapy, faith integration, and trauma-informed support  Dr. Carol Ministries Website – Books, blogs, podcasts, and coaching focused on faith, sexuality, healing, and relationships  Book Mentioned: Sexpectations by Dr. Carol Tanksley  Faith-Based Healing Tool: Soaking in Song of Solomon to rewire sexual shame through Scripture  For Parents & Therapists: Practical Tools Start "the sex talk" as early as toddlerhood with normalized language Use visuals like anatomy brochures and age-appropriate books Teach bodily autonomy and respectful curiosity—not shame Have 10,000 mini conversations about sex, not just one big talk Help clients deconstruct harmful beliefs and rebuild a safe image of God Support trauma survivors in processing their story with a safe witness  Who This Episode Is For: Christians recovering from purity culture, shame, or sexual trauma Parents seeking faith-based sex education tools Therapists, coaches, and leaders looking for trauma-informed Christian resources Individuals navigating intimacy blocks in marriage or dating Survivors of spiritual or sexual abuse trying to rebuild trust and identity Support This Work Each episode takes 3–5 hours to prepare, research, record, and produce with care, intentionality, and trauma-informed planning. If this podcast has encouraged you, supported your growth, or offered meaningful insight, one way to help keep it independent and ad-free is by visiting the merch store. Your purchase helps sustain thoughtful, holistic conversations on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being for listeners around the world. Explore the collection: https://theholisticcounselorpodcast.printful.me/ If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Reviews are one of the most impactful ways to help others discover the show.