Ultimate Potential: A Mental Health Podcast

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re honored to be joined by Krissy Pozatek, a leading voice in adolescent treatment and wilderness therapy. With over fifteen years of experience in the field and a graduate degree in clinical social work from both the Smith College School for Social Work and N.M. Highlands University, Krissy brings a depth of insight that is both compassionate and practical.In this conversation, Krissy dives into her philosophy of empowering youth and young adults to solve their own problems—an approach that fosters resilience, emotional maturity, and authentic growth. Through her work, she helps young people step into their own strength, make meaningful choices, and navigate the challenges of life with greater confidence.Whether you’re a parent, educator, mental health professional, or simply someone interested in the transformative power of therapeutic work, this episode offers wisdom you won’t want to missFollow Krissy on Social MediaInstagram https://www.instagram.com/theparallelprocess/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/parallelprocessGet her book(s) todayhttps://www.parallel-process.com/shop-booksVisit her websitehttps://www.parallel-process.comLink in our bio or listen on these other platformsApple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/tDGSJYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@officialtelos564 #mentalhealth #thetelosway #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #ultimatepotential #support #KrissyPozatek #TheParellelProcess

Welcome to the Telos Ultimate Potential podcast, where we explore the heart of healing, growth, and the human experience. In today’s episode, we’re sitting down with Karl Jensen, a true legend here at Telos, who has dedicated the last 20 years to helping young people find hope and stability on their mental health journeys. Karl shares his own powerful story of trauma and healing—and how those experiences have shaped his deep compassion and understanding for the students he serves. Together, we’ll explore how Telos’ trauma-informed care approach recognizes that every individual carries their own version of trauma—whether big or small—and how acknowledging that truth changes the way we connect, support, and heal. Join us for an authentic and heartfelt conversation with one of Telos’ most beloved recreational therapists and mentors, as Karl helps us see that healing doesn’t start with fixing—it begins with understanding. Link in our bio or.... LISTEN ON THESE OTHER PLATFORMS: YouTubeApple Podcasts

In this episode, we sit down with Erin Schmitt, Parent Liaison, to explore her powerful journey from navigating treatment as a parent to becoming a trusted guide for families walking the same path.With empathy rooted in personal experience, Erin bridges the gap between parents and treatment teams, helping families feel seen, supported, and understood. Her message to parents is simple yet profound: “I’ve been where you are.” That shared understanding builds trust and offers hope, showing families they are not alone in the challenges they face. Erin shares lessons she’s learned, the emotions of stepping into the unknown, and the healing that comes from connection. For parents, caregivers, and anyone touched by the treatment journey, her story is a reminder that recovery and growth are not only possible—they are stronger when walked together.Erin's Recommendations:Christina Buttons Interview The Anxious GenerationLISTEN ON THESE OTHER PLATFORMS:YouTube: @officialtelos564 Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/tDGSJSpotify: https://shorturl.at/GfKWp #thetelosway #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #ultimatepotential #sobriety #ParentLiaison #ErinSchmitt

Keldy Zabriskie opens up about his tumultuous, up-and-down journey through depression, anxiety, and identity struggles—ultimately finding success and the person he was always meant to be. In this month’s podcast, Keldy shares his path through substance abuse and mental health challenges—leading to a life devoted to helping others walk similar journeys through his work at Telos’ Carter House.Link in our bio or....LISTEN ON THESE OTHER PLATFORMS:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@officialtelos564/videos Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/tDGSJSpotify: https://shorturl.at/GfKWp#thetelosway #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #ultimatepotential #sobriety #substanceusedisorder #KeldyZabriskie #TransGender #KeldyZabriskie #TransGender

Over the last few years, trauma stories from figures like Paris Hilton have gone viral — shining a light on real pain and igniting a wave of public concern around youth treatment centers. These stories matter, but they’ve also been picked up and amplified by media outlets that thrive on outrage, clicks, and controversy. In this month’s episode, Christina Buttons, an investigative reporter for the Manhattan Institute, joins us to examine the growing gap between emotionally charged narratives and the actual data. While it’s critical to hold bad actors accountable, it's equally important to ask: Are we listening to survivors — or are we letting the media spin trauma into spectacle? Christina breaks down what the numbers really show, how trauma can shape perception, and how ethical treatment centers are working every day to provide safe, meaningful healing. This is a conversation about truth, nuance, and the responsibility to think critically — even when the headlines scream otherwise. Related articles from Christinahttps://manhattan.institute/article/the-radical-movement-to-divest-from-youth-residential-treatmenthttps://www.city-journal.org/article/defending-residential-treatmenthttps://nypost.com/2025/05/31/opinion/dont-by-paris-hiltons-bull-about-the-troubled-teen-industry/Connect with Christina Buttons to learn more about her work and insights. www.buttonslives.com, instagram.com/buttonslives twitter.com/buttonslives, youtube.com/@buttonslives TikTok.com/@buttonslives .LISTEN ON THESE OTHER PLATFORMS: Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/tDGSJSpotify: https://shorturl.at/GfKWp

On this month's episode of Ultimate Potential Podcast, Mental Performance Coach Clay Frost invites us to shift our focus from outcomes to growth. In this episode, Clay explores what it means to value the process, how to face losses with purpose, avoid burnout, and recognize the power of great coaching. From learning to lift where you stand to rediscovering the wonder in sport, this conversation is packed with game-changing insight. Take a moment, hit play, and hear how shifting your mindset can unlock not just performance — but purpose. Contact Clay Today:https://clayfrost.coLink in our bio or...LISTEN ON THESE OTHER PLATFORMS: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@officialtelos564/videosApple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/tDGSJ Spotify: https://shorturl.at/GfKWp #thetelosway #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #ultimatepotential

The white coat may symbolize authority, but true healing goes deeper. In this episode with Jarrod Bagley FNP, a principled physician takes us behind the scenes of medicine untainted by profit. Hear what it means to lead with care, not codes.Website - https://www.pcmclinic.comSocial Channels:Facebook - https://shorturl.at/V8QUIInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/pioneer.comprehensive/

In this honest and deeply human conversation, Meg Ortiz joins us to talk about her experience with the silent battles that nearly broke her while living with crippling depression and anxiety—challenges that led her through mental health treatment and a suicide attempt. Meg shares how she slowly began piecing her life back together, what healing has really looked like (hint: it’s not a straight line), and how she’s learning to live with both strength and softness. This episode is a reminder that being broken doesn’t mean being beyond repair—and that becoming whole can look a lot different than we expect.

In this episode, we’ll explore how psychological testing helps individuals and families navigate mental health challenges by providing valuable insights into strengths, limitations, and prognosis. Whether you’re a parent seeking answers about your child’s struggles or someone looking to better understand your own mental health, assessments offer a clear roadmap for treatment and support. Dr. Joshua Cluff PsyD, breaks down the purpose of these evaluations, discusses their real-world impact, and sheds light on how they guide effective interventions. Join us as we uncover the power of psychological assessment in fostering growth, resilience, and well-being.SHOW NOTESLISTEN ON THESE OTHER PLATFORMS:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@officialtelos564/videos Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/tDGSJSpotify: https://shorturl.at/GfKWpWEBSITE - https://clearviewpsychologicalservices.comBOOK RECOMMENDATIONSThe Anxious Generation - https://shorturl.at/LkoUxThe Dyslexic Advantage - https://www.dyslexicadvantage.org....#thetelosway #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #ultimatepotential #JoshuaCluff #TheAnxiousGeneration #TheDyslexicAdvantage #ClearviewPsychologicalServices

This month’s podcast features an insightful conversation with Jennifer E. Taylor, JD., a renowned Therapeutic Consultant, who sheds light on what to do when your teenage child seems to be stuck emotionally. If you've tried a range of approaches — from therapy, outpatient mentoring, coaching, and parent support groups to family therapy — and still aren't seeing progress, it might be time to explore the role of a Therapeutic Consultant. Tune in to hear how this specialized support can make a difference when traditional methods no longer seem to help.

Is weekly therapy enough for you? In this month's podcast, Dr. Margaret Oaks mentioned that an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) could be a beneficial option to explore if weekly therapy isn't sufficient. IOPs offer more frequent and intensive support for those who need it, whether you're stepping up from individual therapy or transitioning out of a hospital stay. These programs provide structured care that helps bridge the gap between inpatient treatment and traditional outpatient therapy, offering flexibility and a higher level of support. Listen to this month's podcast for more information on how Intensive Outpatient Programs work. Dr. Margaret Oaks is a co-founder of Anxiety, Trauma & Depression Treatment Centers in Utah (www.atdtreatment.com), which provide IOP programs designed to help overcome your condition and give you or your loved one back the life they so desperately want. Dr. Oaks also has tips for improving your mental health, boundaries, and mindfulness on her podcast, Delaney's Mom: Tales of a Latter-day Therapist. https://open.spotify.com/show/3DEdPh3Nrk6b8UXd2pmpNS?si=RRQHj1lCQ-atTHjGYM-p1Q

"Good research puts the client first," states Dr. Laura Mills, who holds a PhD in Psychology specializing in Quantitative Methodology (Statistics) from York University. Her professional expertise is centered on enhancing treatment effectiveness by developing and applying client-oriented success measures. For more information on how she ensures treatment centers prove their worth, listen to this month's podcast.

“Calm seas don’t create great captains.” You are on your way to becoming one. In this month’s podcast, Dr. Brad Reedy explores the transformative impact of wilderness therapy and the power of a growth mindset in parenting. If you’ve ever wondered how working on yourself as a parent can make a profound difference, don’t miss this insightful episode.

Are therapeutic programs safe? Do they work? Is there a return on the financial investment? And how can we recognize a quality program? In this month's podcast episode, Michael Gass, PhD, LMFT—an expert with decades of research into the effectiveness of experiential programs—delves into these critical questions, providing insights on how these programs operate, their potential benefits, and where to find reliable answers.Are therapeutic programs safe? Do they work? Is there a return on the financial investment? And how can we recognize a quality program? In this month's podcast episode, Michael Gass, PhD, LMFT—an expert with decades of research into the effectiveness of experiential programs—delves into these critical questions, providing insights on how these programs operate, their potential benefits, and where to find reliable answers.

Join us as we explore how therapists like Laura Easler partner with police to de-escalate 911 calls. Laura shares practical tips on recognizing warning signs and using de-escalation techniques that can make a life-saving difference—even for your teen.

Driven by a passion for helping youth, Brad Matheson fell in love with the concept of mental health support. Despite treatment's importance, many people who need it find it too expensive. Choose Mental Health is a founding organization that has been instrumental in reducing the stigma of mental health issues through education, guidance on accessing resources, and providing scholarships to help pay for treatment. By partnering with third parties, they provide options for families to succeed.

Have you ever wanted the cheat codes for life? Transitioning from treatment to everyday life is a crucial step in the recovery process. Our experts will share valuable tips and insights in this month's podcast. Learn how to navigate life after treatment and continue your mental health journey with Hayley Caddes and Colin MacDonald, from Not Therapy. www.nottherapy.me

Processing trauma and need help? Have you ever considered EMDR? On this month's podcast, Cindy White, LCSW, gives an overview of EMDR, or “processing therapy,” as Cindy nicknamed it.

"Do the opposite of your instincts". In this month's podcast, Larry Smith, LCMHC, Clinical Director of Geneva Center and Vineyard Primary Care and Assessment, discusses DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills and insights. Do you or any of your loved ones want to radically accept and move forward with mindfulness?

Join us, along with Sheriff Juan Figueroa, as we discuss mental health and policy. What needs to be changed, and what is changing regarding mental health in the public arena.