In this inspiring episode, we delve into the journey of unlocking one's potential and embracing personal growth. Through engaging conversations, we explore the transformative power of perspective, the importance of setting goals, and the art of becoming extraordinary. Join us as we uncover the keys to living a life filled with purpose and passion, and discover how small shifts can lead to monumental changes. Tune in to embark on a path of self-discovery and empowerment.đ What Youâll Learn in This Episodeâ¶Understanding what you truly want is key to growth.â¶Perspective can help overcome feelings of being stuck.â¶Authentic communication is crucial in relationships.â¶Finding the right fit in therapy or coaching is essential.â¶Humor can be a powerful tool in personal development.â¶Growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone.â¶Language shapes our perception and experiences.â¶Setting clear goals is vital for progress.â¶Diversity in experiences enriches personal growth.â¶Believing in oneself is fundamental to living a fulfilled life.Contact Mark: yourextraordinarylifecoach@gmail.com #PersonalGrowth #Transformation #AuthenticCommunication #Therapy #Coaching #SelfDiscovery #OvercomingStuckness #HumorInHealing #PerspectiveShift #believeinyourself âš Listen, Learn, HealIf this episode resonates, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support trauma-informed conversations.đïž About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.Visit MenHealing at: https://www.menhealing.org/
Join Dr. Debra and Dr. Christopher Deulen as they delve into the complexities of transgender identity and the societal challenges faced by the transgender community. This episode covers the importance of understanding and respect, the impact of societal perceptions, and the role of mental health professionals in supporting transgender individuals. Dr. Deulen shares personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for education and open dialogue to foster acceptance and understanding.đ What Youâll Learn in This EpisodeⶠSee the world from the perspective of transgender individuals.ⶠRespect and proper pronoun usage are crucial.ⶠSocietal perceptions create significant challenges.ⶠMental health professionals play a key role in support.ⶠEducation and open dialogue foster acceptance.Chapters:1. Introduction and Guest Introduction2. Understanding Transgender Identity3. Societal Challenges and Perceptions4. Role of Mental Health Professionals5. Importance of Education and Dialogue6. Conclusion and Final Thoughts#TransgenderIdentity #MentalHealth #Education #Acceptance #OpenDialogueâš Listen, Learn, HealIf this episode resonates, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support trauma-informed conversations.đïž About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.Visit MenHealing at: www.menhealing.org
In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra is joined by Garrett Wood, owner of Gnosis Therapy, to discuss the challenges faced by high-achieving, high-masking professionals. They explore the concepts of burnout, hypnotherapy, and the importance of addressing mental and emotional health in professional settings. Garrett shares insights on how masking neurodivergence can lead to burnout and the role of hypnotherapy in fostering resilience and well-being.This conversation dives into:High-achieving professionals often experience burnout due to masking.Hypnotherapy can help in addressing underlying emotional issues.Burnout is more than just workplace stress; it affects all areas of life.Masking neurodivergence can lead to chronic stress and burnout.Healthy coping mechanisms are crucial for sustainable success.Hypnotherapy involves self-hypnosis and focused states of mind.Positive reinforcement is more effective than negative in hypnotherapy.Addressing imposter syndrome can lead to personal growth.Creating a supportive environment can improve organizational well-being.Everyone struggles; seeking help is a sign of strength.đ© Connect with Garrett Wood:www.gnosistherapy.comInstagramLinkedInđïž About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.đIf this episode resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe to support more conversations like this.#Burnout #Hypnotherapy #MentalHealth #Resilience #HighAchievers
In this powerful episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra sits down with mindset coach, author, and entrepreneur David McKee for a deep dive into the science of thought patterns, emotional regulation, trauma responses, and why so many of us feel stuck in our own lives.David opens up about his personal journey through childhood trauma, ADHD, negative thought loops, and high cortisol living â and how neuroscience-based mindset practices helped him rebuild his internal world. Together, they break down how stress, social media, and childhood experiences shape behavior, why COVID-era youth are struggling, and how simple daily mental habits can create lasting change.Whether youâre navigating burnout, imposter syndrome, emotional blocks, or a longing for more purpose, this episode gives clear, actionable tools for resetting your mindset and reclaiming your life.đ What Youâll Learn in This Episodeâ¶How 90% of adult behavior becomes automated â and how to break the loopâ¶The impact of COVID on adolescent brain developmentâ¶Why negative thought patterns dominate the average personâs dayâ¶The neuroscience behind manifestation and the Reticular Activating Systemâ¶How cortisol hijacks your ability to calm downâ¶Practical strategies for breaking creative blocks and overthinkingâ¶How organizations can support high-performing but struggling employeesâ¶The truth about imposter syndrome and people-pleasingâ¶Simple mindset exercises that actually workđ About David McKeeMindset coach, speaker, and author of the upcoming book âNavigate the Noise,â David blends neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience to help people rewire their internal narratives and build healthier, more productive lives.Follow David: @davidmckee84 and @anotherangleconsulting on Instagram.
In this episode of "Just Healing," Dr. Adam Yerke, a clinical and forensic psychologist, discusses the history and challenges of transgender individuals in the military. The conversation covers the impact of policy changes, the importance of normalizing gender diversity, and the broader implications for society.This conversation dives into:â¶The history of transgender people serving in the militaryâ¶How changing policies create trauma, instability, and barriers to serviceâ¶The difference between gender identity and sexual orientationâ¶The mental health consequences of exclusion and stigmaâ¶Global military inclusion trends compared to the United Statesâ¶How families, communities, and children understand genderâ¶The importance of normalizing gender diversity through everyday conversationsâ¶The human impact when dedicated service members are told theyâre ânot eligibleâ simply for being who they areDr. Yerke also offers guidance on:â¶Talking about gender with older generationsâ¶Supporting young people in understanding their own identityâ¶Breaking down misinformation about transgender communitiesâ¶Challenging internalized and societal stigmaâ¶Recognizing the similarities we all share, regardless of gender identityThis episode highlights the real people behind the headlines â service members, parents, leaders, and families navigating identity, dignity, and belonging.đ© Connect with Dr. Adam Yerke: adamF.Yerke@gmail.comđïž About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.đIf this episode resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe to support more conversations like this.#TransgenderRights #MilitaryInclusion #TransgenderMilitaryBan #JustHealingPodcast #TraumaInformed #LGBTQ #GenderIdentity #TransgenderVeterans #PolicyAndImpact #MentalHealth
In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra speaks with Michael Levittan, a licensed therapist, expert witness, and longtime advocate, about how definitions of masculinity shape relationships, fuel cycles of domestic violence, and create barriers to emotional connection.Michael shares his decades of experience working with survivors and perpetrators, unpacking how cultural expectations, toxic masculinity, and coercive control impact both men and women. Together, they explore how compassion and vulnerabilityânot controlâcan transform the way we understand masculinity and create healthier, safer relationships.âš What youâll learn in this episode:What masculinity really meansâand how definitions shift across time and cultureThe connection between rigid gender roles and domestic violenceWhy coercive control can be as damaging as physical violenceHow toxic masculinity suppresses emotions and fuels angerPractical advice for survivors, perpetrators, and anyone seeking healthier relationshipsđ About Michael LevitanMichael is a licensed therapist, lecturer, and media commentator specializing in domestic violence, child abuse, sex trafficking, anger management, and trauma recovery. He is widely published on menâs issues, masculinity, and family violence.đ Connect with Michael Levittan:Website: www.michaellevittan.comEmail: ml@earthlink.netđ± Episode takeaway:âReal change happens when we look within. Control and blame only keep us stuckâcompassion and self-awareness move us forward.âđ Subscribe to Just Healing for more survivor-centered conversations that challenge stigma and celebrate the many ways we heal.#JustHealing #Masculinity #DomesticViolence #ToxicMasculinity #TraumaRecovery #Healingđ» Visit MenHealing at: https://www.menhealing.org/
In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra talks with Maren Casada, a victim advocate and returning SCRIPT Conference presenter, about the concept of active healingâa survivor-centered approach that emphasizes taking ownership of your healing journey without the pressure to forgive.Maren shares her personal experiences with trauma, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and why survivors donât owe forgiveness to their abusers. Instead, she highlights how active healing creates space for self-empowerment, growth, and boundaries - while still allowing for setbacks along the way.âš What youâll hear in this episode:What active healing isâand how it differs from forgivenessWhy forgiveness is optional, not mandatory, for survivorsHow cultural and religious expectations complicate healingThe importance of boundaries and removing toxic people from your circlePractical tools for building a self-directed healing practiceđ SCRIPT ConferenceMaren will be presenting Active Healing vs. Forgiveness at the SCRIPT Conference (September 29â30 at the California Endowment Center). This free, community-focused event also offers continuing education credits for professionals.đ Learn more & register: thescriptconference.comđ Connect with Maren Casada:Email: marencasada@gmail.comInstagram: @casadamarenLinkedIn: Maren Casadađ± Episode takeaway:âYou donât owe anyone forgiveness. Healing and forgiveness are not mutually exclusive - you can heal without forgiving.âLearn more about MenHealing : www.menhealing.org
In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra talks with Dr. Josh Wynerâfounder of Willow Family Health and program chair of Marriage & Family Therapy at the Chicago Schoolâabout what ADHD really is (and isnât).Instead of just being about attention or hyperactivity, Dr. Josh reframes ADHD as a difference in emotional tagging: how our brains assign value to choices and stimuli. Together, they explore how ADHD overlaps with trauma and PTSD, why misdiagnosis is so common, and how acceptance and context can transform how we understand neurodivergence.âš What youâll hear in this episode:Why ADHD is more about emotional regulation than distractionHow trauma symptoms can mimic ADHD and complicate diagnosisThe difference between demoralization and depression in ADHD clientsWhat partners and families can do to support neurodivergent loved onesWhy embracing ADHD matters more than âfixingâ itđ± Episode takeaway:âADHD isnât broken attentionâitâs a different way of being in the world. The real issue is often the structures around us, not the person.âđ Connect with Dr. Josh Wyner:Website: joshuawyner.comEmail: drjosh@joshuawyner.comTikTok: @drjoshuawynerInstagram: @drjoshuawynerYouTube: Dr. Joshua Wynerđ Learn more & register for SCRIPT Conference: â â thescriptconference.comâ Visit MenHealing at: www.menhealing.org
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, sexual trauma, and BDSM. Listener discretion is advised.On this week's episode, Dr. Debra sits down with renowned trauma specialist Andrew Pari, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping survivors of sexual trauma.This episode explores some of the most misunderstood aspects of trauma recovery...Curative Kink: Andrew introduces his pioneering therapeutic approach that uses role play and BDSM elements in a safe, negotiated environment to help clients gain mastery over their trauma.The Body's Response to Trauma: The conversation addresses the physiological phenomenon of arousal during sexual assault, explaining why it is a normal, evolutionary response and not a sign of consent. Andrew shares his experience as one of the first people to publicly discuss this topic over a decade ago.Repetition Compulsion: Learn about why people unconsciously replay their trauma and how Andrew's methods help to transform these maladaptive patterns into a path for healing.A Message of HopeAndrew concludes the episode with a powerful message for anyone seeking healing, emphasizing the importance of leaning into fear and finding the right guide to support your journey.đ Connect with Andrew PariWebsite: www.saawareness.comâ LinkedIn: â Andrew Pariđ Learn more & register for SCRIPT Conference: thescriptconference.comCheck out the book Andrew mentioned: Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski Visit MenHealing at: â www.menhealing.org
In this episode of Just Healing, we sit down with Monica Vega, Program Manager at InsideOUT Writers, to explore the power of community, creative writing, and diversion programs in supporting system-impacted youth.Monica shares her work managing youth diversion programs in Los Angelesâproviding alternatives to incarceration that focus on accountability, growth, and rehabilitation rather than punishment. From open mic nights and life-skills workshops to hiking trips and creative writing circles, she explains how safe spaces can transform lives by fostering expression, belonging, and connection.âš What youâll hear in this episode:What diversion really meansâand why it mattersHow creative writing circles help youth heal and reclaim their storiesThe role of mentorship, consistency, and kindness in supporting young peopleThe challenges and rewards of working with families alongside youthWhy community is essential for both accountability and healingMonica also previews her upcoming presentation at the SCRIPT conference, where sheâll lead an interactive workshop on building safe spaces through creative writing.đ Connect with Monica Vega & InsideOUT Writers:Website: insideoutwriters.orgInstagram: @insideoutwritersEmail: monica@insideoutwriters.orgLinkedIn: Monica Vegađ Learn more & register for SCRIPT Conference: scriptconference.orgâYouâre not alone. Whatever youâre struggling with, thereâs always a place for you in community.âVisit MenHealing at: www.menhealing.org
In this episode of Just Healing, we explore the groundbreaking release of HOME â Healing Outreach to Men Everywhereâan interactive, trauma-informed resource created for incarcerated male survivors of sexual harm. Clinical psychologist and longtime MenHealing facilitator Sandi Forti joins us to unpack the years-long journey behind this revolutionary book, why it matters, and how itâs already making waves in over 1,100 prisons across the U.S.Together, we dive into:The staggering rates of trauma among incarcerated menHow the HOME book breaks stigma and builds healing pathwaysInteractive tools like somatic practices, videos, and worksheetsThe real stories behind the graphics and music that make HOME uniqueWhy healing is possibleâno matter where you areWhether you're a mental health provider, advocate, or survivor yourself, this episode will leave you inspired by what's possible when we center compassion, creativity, and lived experience.Contact Sandi at sandiforti@menhealing.orgBuy your own copy of Healing Outreach to Men Everywhere on Amazon or at Barnes & Noble today!Visit MenHealing at www.menhealing.org
In this powerful episode of Just Healing, host Dr. Debra is joined by Dr. Shayla Chapmanâlicensed psychotherapist and trauma specialistâfor a deep dive into EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).Together, they unpack:What EMDR is (and what it isnât)How it helps with trauma, grief, anxiety, and moreThe 8-phase healing process behind the scienceWhy you donât have to talk about your trauma to heal from itThe importance of healing with community, not in isolationDr. Chapman explains why EMDR has become a game-changer for so many survivors, how it works both virtually and in person, and why you should never feel ashamed to take that first step toward healing.đ Youâve suffered aloneâdonât heal alone.Learn more about Dr. Shayla Chapman at doctorshaylachapman.comFollow her on Instagram: @SitWithShayla
In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra welcomes media psychologist Dr. Corey Emanuel for a raw and insightful conversation on how constant media exposure impacts our mental health. From doomscrolling and negativity bias to empathy fatigue and algorithm-driven anxiety, we explore how social platforms shape our traumaâand how to take your power back.đŹ Topics include:âą How the news and social media fuel stress and comparisonâą What negativity bias is and why it mattersâą The hidden emotional cost of true crime & trauma contentâą Tips for curating a healthier digital experienceâą The importance of pausing, centering, and creating joy onlineđ§ A must-listen for anyone feeling emotionally drained by their feed.Connect with Dr. Corey: www.coreyemanuel.com#MentalHealth #SocialMedia #TraumaHealing #JustHealingPodcast #EmpathyFatigue #DigitalWellness #HealingJourney
Juan Calix, writer and star of the upcoming film "What You Deserve," joins producer Evan Enslow in a moving conversation about transforming lived trauma into powerful art. Together, they open up about the complex intersections of male survivorship, sobriety, HIV stigma, and LGBTQ identity, offering an unfiltered look into the making of a film rooted in healing. Highlights:The emotional toll and triumph of creating from lived experienceSobriety as a foundation for creative expressionThe stigma male survivors faceâand the strength to push through itBuilding films that speak to both survivors and broader audiencesThis is more than a filmâit's a movement for connection, courage, and compassion.
What happens when justice meets traumaâand who gets to decide redemption? In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra is joined by civil litigation attorney Jack Einwechter to explore the shocking resentencing of the Menendez brothers and why theyâre suddenly eligible for parole after 35 years behind bars. Together, they unpack:How resentencing works in CaliforniaThe impact of trauma and abuse on sentencingThe legal process behind parole and clemencyThe role of public opinion and social mediaAnd why this case still mattersâdecades later Whether youâre a true crime junkie, survivor advocate, or just someone whoâs been wondering WTF is actually going onâthis episode breaks it all down. Subscribe to Just Healing for weekly episodes exploring healing, justice, and the intersections of trauma and society.#JustHealing #MenendezBrothers #TrueCrimePodcast #JusticeSystem #ParoleReform #TraumaInformedCare
What does it mean to heal in a world that feels increasingly unsafe? In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra reconnects with longtime colleague and clinical psychologist Dr. Christopher Deulen to talk trauma, identity, immigration, and hope.Drawing from decades of work with immigrants, Spanish-speaking clients, and marginalized communities, Dr. Deulen shares deeply personal stories and practical insights on how to connect across cultural and political divides. From bilingual therapy and animal-assisted interventions to navigating transphobia and systemic fear, this conversation is a reminder that healing begins with human connection.Whether you're a therapist, survivor, or someone who just wants to understand moreâthis oneâs for you.Learn more about Dr. Deulen here: www.thecaveclinicalservices.comOr contact him at: drdeulen@thecaveclinicalservices.comConnect with MenHealing by visiting our website at â â www.menhealing.orgâ â and following @menhealing on social mediaSupport Our Work:If you found this episode valuable, please give it a thumbs up đ, leave a comment đŹ, and share it with your friends. Donât forget to hit the subscribe button! Your support helps us continue bringing diverse voices and bold conversations to the forefront.đ§ Just Healing on â â â â Spotify â â â â đ Just Healing on â â â â Apple Podcasts â â â â â¶ïž Just Healing â â â â YouTube Playlist â â â
đ New Episode of Just Healing â Therapy That Works: Debunking Myths for Male Survivors of Sexual TraumaIn this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Matt Love, a licensed psychologist with a unique expertise in trauma, male sexual abuse survivors, and sports psychology, joins host Dr. Debra for an insightful conversation on healing and understanding the complexities of trauma.Dr. Love discusses the often-overlooked experiences of male survivors of sexual abuse and the stigmas they face, including the harmful "vampire myth" â the misconception that male survivors of trauma are destined to become perpetrators. He shares his approach to therapy, the importance of finding the right fit with a therapist, and how different types of therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, are used to support survivors.The episode also covers:âą The impact of societal expectations on male survivors of abuseâą The journey of breaking free from shame and guiltâą Practical advice on choosing a therapist and what to expect in treatmentâą The challenges of navigating masculinity, identity, and trauma recoveryâą Dr. Loveâs advice on reaching out for help and the importance of being open in therapyIf you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement to seek the support you deserve.Get in Touch with Dr. Matt LoveVisit matthewlovepsyd.com-------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with MenHealing by visiting our website at â www.menhealing.orgâ and following @menhealing on social mediaSupport Our Work:If you found this episode valuable, please give it a thumbs up đ, leave a comment đŹ, and share it with your friends. Donât forget to hit the subscribe button! Your support helps us continue bringing diverse voices and bold conversations to the forefront.
đ New Episode of Just Healing â BONDED: Bellamy Young on Healing, Humanity, and the Power of ArtCurious about what this BONDED play is all about? Come watch Bellamy THIS Sunday. Get you ticket to the livestream here: https://givebutter.com/couragetocreateYou know her as #MellieGrant from ABCâs #Scandal ânow meet #Bellamy Young like youâve never seen her before. Bellamy joins Dr. Debra for a heartfelt, funny, and deeply real conversation about trauma, healing, and the transformative power of storytelling.Bellamy opens up about her path from soap operas (Another World) to the Broadway stage to advocacy work, and how she found herself involved with MenHealing and BONDEDâa new play centered on male trauma. Together, she and Dr. Debra explore how art can spark connection, humor can be a survival skill, and community is essential to healing.Whether you're here for the behind-the-scenes stories, emotional depth, or a dose of hopeâthis episode delivers.đ Learn more about MenHealing and the Courage to Create đ Event Date: April 27, 2025đš Featured artists from the episode will be showcased!Check out Bellamy's podcast, SHE LEADS WITH CARE #JustHealingPodcast #MaleSurvivors #HealingThroughArt #CourageToCreate #TraumaRecovery #SurvivorStories #MenHealingGet tickets to COURAGE TO CREATE on April 27th and experience BONDED! GET TIX HERE-------------------------------------------------------------------đ§ Just Healing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ymUmTDF36KCTThJcMKM13?si=9986ce403e5846f5đ Just Healing on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-healing/id1647439232 â¶ïž Just Healing YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Nmw9Wlb4KiC-TiMfrrARVIJNWc6BpTL&feature=shared-------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with MenHealing by visiting our website at www.menhealing.org and following @menhealing on social mediaSupport Our Work:If you found this episode valuable, please give it a thumbs up đ, leave a comment đŹ, and share it with your friends. Donât forget to hit the subscribe button! Your support helps us continue bringing diverse voices and bold conversations to the forefront.
Get your virtual ticket to â Courage to Createâ now: â https://givebutter.com/couragetocreateâ In Episode 07 of Just Healing, we spotlight four powerful voicesâJoshua Knight, Michael Crowley, Bradley Gubler, and Michael Guinnâwho share how creative expression became essential to their healing journeys as male survivors of sexual trauma. Hosted by Michael Munson, this intimate conversation dives deep into themes of resilience, identity, vulnerability, and the transformative role of art.đŒïž Hear about photography, floral design, spoken word, and moreâeach a unique expression of survival, truth, and growth.đ§ This episode is part of MenHealingâs Courage to Create seriesâculminating in a live virtual and in-person event showcasing survivor artists on April 27, 2025. Get your virtual ticket to â â Courage to Createâ â now: â â https://givebutter.com/couragetocreateâ â đ Search Tags:male survivor stories, healing through art, trauma recovery podcast, creative healing, MenHealing, courage to create, spoken word healing, podcast for survivors, survivor artđ§ Just Healing on â â â â Spotify â â â â đ Just Healing on â â â â Apple Podcasts â â â â â¶ïž Just Healing â â â â YouTube Playlist â â â â Connect with MenHealing by visiting our website at â â â â www.MenHealing.orgâ â â â and following @menhealing on social media.
Join MenHealing, actress Bellamy Young, playwright Tyler Martin and more for an evening of art, hope, and healing. Get your virtual ticket to Courage to Create now: https://givebutter.com/couragetocreateIn this episode of the Just Healing podcast, host Michael Munson is joined by Jim Struve, Executive Director of MenHealing, and Tyler Martin, an actor, writer, director, and the playwright of 'BONDED.' The discussion delves into the transformative power of creative expression in dealing with trauma and survivorship. Jim and Tyler share their journeys, highlighting the importance of authenticity and subversiveness in storytelling. They discuss the impact of the play 'BONDED,' which explores complex themes like abuse, trauma, family dysfunction, and toxic masculinity, and sheds light on the intricate dynamics of trauma bonding. The conversation also covers MenHealingâs innovative approach to incorporating creative modalities into their healing programs, including outreach to incarcerated survivors. Tune in to learn more about the upcoming MenHealing event featuring a presentation of the play 'BONDED' and a Q&A with the cast and creatives.đ§ Just Healing on â â â Spotify â â â đ Just Healing on â â â Apple Podcasts â â â â¶ïž Just Healing â â â YouTube Playlist â â â Connect with MenHealing by visiting our website at â â â www.MenHealing.orgâ â â and following @menhealing on social media.