More Than Therapy

Stacy Schaffer is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arvada, Colorado, with over twenty years of experience specializing in child and teen therapy. She is passionate about helping children heal from grief, anxiety, and childhood trauma through innovative approaches like Synergetic Play Therapy, which emphasizes therapist authenticity and creating a safe, understanding space for children. Stacy's work and her book, "From a Child Therapist with Love," offer valuable insights for parents seeking mental health support for their children and themselves. Her mission is to empower families to heal and to shift the origin stories of trauma through compassionate, evidence-based therapy. Stacy brings a heartfelt and knowledgeable perspective to the More Than Therapy podcast, sharing her journey and expertise in child mental health and trauma recovery.

Today on More Than Therapy, we have the profound pleasure of welcoming Leah Johnson, a transformational leader whose journey from a 25-year career in politics to a life devoted to creativity, healing, and joy is nothing short of inspiring. Leah is a best-selling author, internationally sought-after speaker, certified Intentional Creativity instructor, and retreat leader who helps people reconnect with their creative power and live intentionally aligned lives.After a long and demanding career in public service, Leah experienced profound burnout and depression, which became a catalyst for deep personal transformation. She courageously walked away from the identity and system that no longer served her and ventured into the world of art, spirituality, and self-advocacy. Through her books, workshops, and retreats — including her signature transformational journeys in Teotihuacan, Mexico — Leah guides others to shed limiting beliefs, cultivate authentic joy, and co-create lives filled with meaning and soul.Leah’s work reminds us that joy is not a luxury but a lifeline. As she often says, “You are the artist of your life — and the canvas is ready.” Today, she shares her wisdom on how to quit what no longer serves you with intention, reclaim your creativity, and embrace a joyful, resilient path forward.------------Hosted by:Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBTExecutive Director of More Than Therapy201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Office: 1-919-729-6300Cell: 1-919-679-2263www.morethantherapy.orghttps://amazon.com/author/mistertherapistGratitude: I live and work on the ancestral lands of Occaneechi, Shakori, Lumbee, Catawba and Cheraw Native American tribes.  I gratefully acknowledge the past and present Native Peoples on whose ancestral homelands I make my life.

Born in Athens, Greece as an Air Force brat, Teri M. Brown now calls the North Carolina coast home. In 2020, she and her husband, Bruce, rode a tandem bicycle across the United States from Astoria, Oregon to Washington DC, successfully raising money for Toys for Tots. Teri’s debut novel, Sunflowers Beneath the Snow, is a historical fiction set in Ukraine, her second, An Enemy Like Me, is set in WWII, and her third, Daughters of Green Mountain Gap, is a generational story about Appalachian healers. Her short story, The Youngest Lighthouse Keeper, came out in the anthology Feisty Deeds: Historical Fictions of Daring Women. 10 Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure (Feb 2025), is an inspirational look at the life lessons she learned riding across the United States on a tandem bicycle. Her latest book, Little Lola and Her Big Dream, is a children’s picture book helping children realize that it is okay to have big dreams even in the face of opposition. Learn more at www.terimbrown.com.Facebook.com/TeriMBrownAuthorTwitter.com/TeriMBrown1Instagram.com/TeriMBrown_AuthorLinkedIn.com/in/TeriMBrownGoodreads.com/terimbrownTiktok.com/@terimbrown_authorAmazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/author/terimbrownYoutube.com/@TeriMBrown_AuthorBookbub.com/profile/teri-m-brownHosted by Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBTExecutive Director of More Than Therapy201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Office: 1-919-729-6300Cell: 1-919-679-2263www.morethantherapy.orghttps://amazon.com/author/mistertherapistGratitude: I live and work on the ancestral lands of Occaneechi, Shakori, Lumbee, Catawba and Cheraw Native American tribes.  I gratefully acknowledge the past and present Native Peoples on whose ancestral homelands I make my life.

What are you afraid of? What caused these fears originally? Are the same factors still in place now as when the fears were first created? In what ways can we face our fears? What happens to fear when we accept it for what it is instead of fighting it?---This episode was recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT at More Than Therapy.www.morethantherapy.org201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Check out the books authored by Felipe Blue available on Amazon:https://amazon.com/author/mistertherapistAre you looking for therapy services? Check out Felipe Blue, licensed therapist in South Carolina and North Carolina, at:www.misterblue.net

What kinds of thoughts keep you from feeling joy for the good fortune of others? How can you learn to feel this joy?How can you increase your awareness of your feelings towards others?How do you feel when someone else shows sincere joy for the happiness and good fortune in your life?This episode was recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT at More Than Therapy.www.morethantherapy.org201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Check out the books authored by Felipe Blue available on Amazon:https://amazon.com/author/mistertherapistAre you looking for therapy services? Check out Felipe Blue, licensed therapist in South Carolina and North Carolina, at:www.misterblue.net

 The stigma surrounding mental health has various impacts on individuals, such as preventing them from seeking treatment and causing discrimination in the workplace. Addressing stigma can lead to better access to care and resources for those with mental health conditions, as well as promoting social inclusion and empowerment for individuals to manage their health and pursue their goals. It can also foster a stronger, more diverse community. During the podcast, Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS discuss the importance of mental health and the challenges faced by marginalized communities when it comes to accessing mental health resources. He is joined by two preseasoned therapists, Alex Hatley and Alexis Prunczic, who share their personal experiences and insights on the topic. Together, they discuss the impact of systemic racism, poverty, and other social factors on mental health and how community involvement can help in raising awareness and promoting access to mental health services. They emphasize the need for Stigma around mental health needs to be addressed in order to promote well-being and reduce discrimination against those living with mental health challenges. To reduce stigma, it is important to promote open conversations, educate ourselves and others, and advocate for supportive policies and human rights. Acknowledging individuals' abilities and empowering them to reach their full potential can also help reduce stigma. Media also plays a role in perpetuating or reducing stigma, so it is important to be mindful of the content we consume and create.Mental health stigma is a negative attitude or belief towards people with mental health conditions, and it is common in society. Public stigma is when people view mental health negatively and may prevent individuals from seeking help. There is also self-stigma where individuals put themselves down or identify strongly with their diagnosis. Structural stigma is when societal structures create an environment of stigmatizing certain groups, such as those in the LGBTQ+ community or low-income individuals. The consequences of mental health stigma can include individuals not seeking This was a conversation about the stigma surrounding mental health and the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. The participants discussed the societal pressures and stereotypes that contribute to the stigma, and how this can lead to social isolation and discrimination for those struggling with mental health challenges. They also discussed the importance of education and empathy and the need for more accessible and supportive mental health services in the workplace. Alexis M. Prunczik and Alexandra Hatley are both master 's-level Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.Ms. Prunczik is a mental health professional of six years; her work includes being a Direct Support Professional II within group homes, an Autism Support Specialist, an Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist, and currently a Qualified Professional and Employment Support Professional III. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Alcohol & Drug Studies through East Carolina University.Ms. Hatley also previously has experience as a Registered Behavioral Technician within the Applied Behavior Analysis field and double-majored in psychology and sociology during her undergraduate studies at East Carolina University. She volunteered at a Crisis Text-Line center for over a year and is interested in growing as a professional through knowledge and advocating for both equality and access.#multiculturalism #decolonizetherapy #mentalhealthawarenessHosted by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCSRecorded at More Than Therapy201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Director of Photography:Kaya JayIntro Music:Felipe Blue

How easy is it for you to notice all that is around you? Can you do it all of the time? Most of the time?How much do you lose when you do not pay attention to the present moment?Will you ever get it back again? Part 1 presented by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS. Part 2 presented by Jude and June Blume. Recorded in connection with: More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Do you need therapy? Schedule a consult with us when you are ready. www.morethantherapy.org 919-679-2263

Today's thought of the day enters on the power of selfless service, emphasizing that everyone possesses the capacity to contribute positively to others' lives. It defines a "heart full of grace" as virtuous and compassionate, suggesting that serving others cultivates both personal growth and spiritual connection. The author encourages readers to embrace service with love and compassion, prompting reflection on motivations and expectations surrounding acts of kindness. Finally, the text connects serving others with finding meaning and purpose in life. When you do something for someone else, what kind of expectations do you have of how that other person should react to your help?What are some of the hidden gems in a life of servitude towards our fellow man?Do you ask yourself some of the important questions about life? If not, how long will you wait? --- Recorded by: Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 Do you want/need therapy and live in NC or SC? Do you have Aetna insurance? Quest Behavioral Health? Carelon Behavioral Health? Anthem EAP - Bank of America? Let's schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal goals. (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy)

The thought of the day presents a reflective meditation on perspective, contrasting optimistic and pessimistic viewpoints with a more analytical, engineering-like approach. It explores the author's personal experiences of shifting between these perspectives, emphasizing the power of choosing gratitude and appreciating life's blessings. The meditation encourages self-reflection on how one interprets challenges, suggesting that difficulties often offer valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. Finally, it proposes that our happiness hinges less on avoiding hardship and more on constructively interpreting life's lessons. Do you see the glass as half empty or half full? Are you afraid that a half-empty glass will soon be gone, or are you glad that you have half a glass of something to enjoy? How do the "half-empty" people affect you when you're around them? Are their views generally positive? Is it realistic to expect that all of our glasses should be full all the time? --- Recorded by: Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy (A 5013C Program of the FAEJ Foundation) 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 Do you want/need therapy and live in NC or SC? Do you have Aetna insurance? Quest Behavioral Health? Carelon Behavioral Health? Anthem EAP - Bank of America? Let's schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal goals. (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy)

Find acceptance and growth in the difficulties you face. How do you see difficulties in your life? Do you accept them as learning or teaching situations or wish they would go away? Have you grown more as a person when dealing with difficulties or when life has been flowing smoothly? Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 www.morethantherapy.org

Al Peoples, LCSW and Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CSS discuss with Tawaka Turner-Philon, LCPC about sexual identity and the impact it can have on mental health. Tawaka has been working in the mental health field for almost 20 years and just this year transitioned from clinician to life coach. She used her years of experience working with diverse populations from adolescents to women to people in the fire and rescue service, to create a coaching program to help professionals overcome stress and overwhelm. CLUES for Peace of Mind, encompasses strategies that aid in effective communication, self-love and self-acceptance, Understanding ones life’s purpose, increasing emotional intelligence, and proven skills to properly manage conflicting thoughts and emotions. Tawaka believes that her contribution to the world is to help others know, understand, and release their greatest potential so that they can live their most self-fulfilled lives. In this episode, we dive deep into the complex relationship between sexual identity and mental health. While sexual orientation and gender identity are not inherently linked to mental illness, the experiences of discrimination, prejudice, and social isolation faced by LGBTQ+ individuals can significantly impact their well-being. Al Peoples ( he/him) is the lead therapist at Peoples Counseling. Felipe Blue (he/him) is the founder and executive director of More Than Therapy located at: 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 www.morethantherapy.org -- #sexualidentity #LGBTQIA #queer #comingout #genderidentity #sexualorientation #loveislove #trans #nonbinary #allyship #equality #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mindfulness #selfcare #stigmafree #mentalhealthmatters #anxiety #depression #ptsd

In what ways are you aware of how you communicate with yourself? Are you aware of the content of that communication? How important is it to be sure that you are communicating effectively with the other people in your life? What can you do to improve communication with yourself? With others?

Why should we be concerned whether or not we contribute to the world on our own scale? What are some of your most recent contributions to the greater good? What kinds of thoughts and ideas keep us from contributing freely to the greater good?

How can we find happiness from that which we think, feel, and do for others? For ourselves? Why am I we see happiness as something outside of ourselves? Do you focus more on what you do or on what you are?

What can you do to improve your reality? What do you expect from other people? Are those expectations realistic? What material or financial expectations do you have? Do these expectations add value to your life?

Al Peoples, LCSW, and Felipe Blue, LCAS, CSI, LCMHCA discuss the problems with bullying and its impact on mental health on this episode. What is bullying?The prevalence of bullying in the African-American communityThe impact of bullying on African American youthWhy is it important to address bullying in the African-American community?Chapter 1: Understanding BullyingDifferent types of bullyingThe signs and symptoms of bullyingThe risk factors for bullyingThe consequences of bullyingChapter 2: Bullying in the African-American CommunityThe unique challenges faced by African-American youth who are bulliedThe intersection of bullying and other forms of oppression, such as racism and sexismThe impact of bullying on the African-American community as a wholeChapter 3: Preventing BullyingWhat parents can do to prevent their children from being bulliedWhat educators can do to create a school environment that is free from bullyingWhat students can do to stand up to bullyingChapter 4: Responding to BullyingWhat to do if you or your child is being bulliedHow to support a child who is being bulliedHow to report bullying to school officialsChapter 5: Healing from BullyingThe long-term effects of bullyingHow to help a child heal from bullyingResources for parents and educators

Felipe Blue, LCAS, CSI, LMCHCA has a discussion with Adam Vibe Gunton, a bestselling author, founder of Recovered On Purpose, and host of The Recovered On Purpose Show. After overcoming homelessness and drug addiction on November 6, 2017, Adam set out on a mission to help as many other addicts find recovery as possible. His nonprofit, Recovered On Purpose, helps addicts in recovery share their stories powerfully with the world to reach more addicts suffering. Since its founding in November 2019, Recovered On Purpose has helped over 1,000 addicts find recovery. Adam believes the system of addiction treatment and recovery has foundationally failed and is on a mission to uproot all the flaws by working to restore purpose and passion to the recovery community.

When was the last time you stayed out in the rain on purpose? How did it feel?Why do we value staying dry and warm as much as we do?What kinds of things might we learn from getting wet and feeling the rain? --- Recorded at More Than Therapy Studios located at 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701. You can learn more about More Than Therapy at www.morethantherapy.org Today's Thought of the Day was delivered by: Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS.

On this episode of More Than Therapy, Felipe Blue, LCAS, CSI has a discussion with Hannah Spanke.  Hannah Spanke, the host of F**k Yourself Happy, is introducing a special edition of the show that will focus on her personal experience in the sex industry. She has been a sex worker of many different types for nearly a decade, and she wants to provide an honest and complete tell-all about her journey in the industry. She starts off with a fair trigger warning for those who might find the subject matter uncomfortable and then dives into a recap of her journey, starting from the beginning and continuing until now. Sex work is one of the oldest industries in the world and yet it is often assumed that it is something one would only do out of desperation. This assumption is pervasive, and yet, people are fascinated by it. There is a dichotomy between how people view sex work and how they actually consume it. People have a natural understanding that it is not something someone would choose for themselves, but it is something people are drawn to and engage with in some capacity. It is both intriguing and taboo.  This conversation is about the idea that people are quick to be interested when it comes to somebody else's story, but they rarely consider it when it comes to themselves. The speaker then goes on to briefly explain their childhood, which included a mother who struggled with drug addiction and a father who was a single dad from the time the speaker was five years old. The speaker then emphasizes how their father was their main influence and how they now understand that everyone is doing the best that they can with what they have.  The speaker reflects on their experience growing up with an emotionally unavailable father and how this affected their development. They recall a particular experience when they were nine years old and had a sit-down conversation with their father. This conversation had a lasting impact on their understanding of the world and their identity. They recognize that the stoic and toxic masculine model their father presented was not the ideal role model for them and that it led to trauma and dysfunction. They emphasize the importance of having a positive role model in order to foster healthy development and understanding. https://www.instagram.com/hannahspanke/  https://www.tiktok.com/@hannahspanke  https://www.hannahspanke.com/couplesretreathawaii

On this episode of More Than Therapy, Felipe Blue, LCAS, CSI, interviews Jacquie, who states: "What if I told you that you may be living with an emotional abuser and that it might be you? Abusive Brain Chatter is that voice in your head that acts as a bully to keep you from taking risks or becoming who you were meant to be. We'll learn the ABCs of Abusive Brain Chatter from our guest, who is a life coach and writing a book on the subject." TIPS: Remember your ABCs Aware: Be aware of what the voice inside of you is saying and know the signs of emotional abuse.  Believe that inside of you is a kinder, loving voice that you must find.  Challenge your core beliefs because that is where your Abusive Brain Chatter gets its ammunition. Social Media: www.healingabc.com  www.facebook.com/coachjacquieelliottclc   www.healingabc.com   www.instagram.com/jacquieelliottclc NAME: Healing Abusive Brain Chatter, How She Left Her Emotional Abuser with Jacquie Elliott DATE: 2023-02-02 -------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: Mrs. Elliot is a life, spiritual and relationship coach who specializes in helping people explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences in order to gain self-understanding and awareness. On this episode of the Mortar Therapy Podcast, she speaks about abusive brain chatter, and whether or not one can be standing with an emotional abuser, or if they themselves are the emotional abuser based on their abusive brain chatter. Mrs. Elliot explains that the mind is a very interesting thing, and one must be mindful of what they tell it. She then introduces her ABC program, which is an innovative way to address trauma, especially emotional trauma. It is designed to help people recognize their negative self-talk and work on replacing it with positive affirmations. The program focuses on building self-compassion and understanding, as well as developing a healthier relationship with oneself. Ultimately, it helps individuals take control of their own minds and emotions to achieve a more balanced state of mind. The speaker used to talk to themselves with negative thoughts that were learned from their parents and school. One day, they were in bed with a remote control in one hand and a box of Frosted Miniwheats in the other, watching TV and binge eating. They realized at that moment that they needed to start a journey of self-healing and growth. Through twelve Step programs and the help of a spiritual center, the speaker was able to be kinder to themselves, make amends with themselves, and ultimately open a successful business that they were able to sell. The speaker is a life and spiritual coach who helps people overcome negative thoughts and feelings that are holding them back from reaching their goals. As part of her work, she has looked into the amount of thoughts people have each day and found that 80% of them are negative. She has made it her life's work to help people combat this negative brain chatter and find a more loving and understanding voice within themselves. She believes that until people can access that higher power, they won't be able to make the changes they want to in their lives. The speaker was discussing how the realization that the negative self-talk they were using was a form of emotional abuse was a pivotal moment in their life. They defined emotional abuse as bullying and belittling oneself, as well as dismissing compliments and negatively commenting on one's looks. They then highlighted the importance of awareness, writing down one's self-talk, and then believing in a higher power to be able to cure the brain chatter. They shared how they needed to rely on a higher power on their own journey, and how they got on their knees and asked for help. -------------------------------------------------- TIMESTAMPS: 0:00: