Opening Program: Welcome to The Yoga Therapy Hour with Amy Wheeler. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with the highly emotionally intelligent and funny Dr. J.J. Kelley, a Psy.D from Oakland, CA. Dr. Kelley specializes in dialectical behavior therapy, combining Zen mindfulness with cognitive behavioral therapy. Join us as we explore the complexities of emotional intelligence, the importance of humor in therapy, and practical strategies for managing our deepest feelings.

Episode Highlights:

·        Meet Dr. J.J. Kelley: Amy introduces Dr. J.J. Kelley, a clinical psychologist who brings humor and insight into her work with emotional intelligence and dialectical behavior therapy.

·        The Gap in Emotional Education: Discussion on how the lack of emotional intelligence education in schools leads to adults grappling with emotions like shame, guilt, and anger in their relationships.

·        Humor with CEOs: Dr. Kelley shares humorous stories about working with CEOs who struggle with low emotional intelligence. She highlights how humor can break down defenses and help clients understand their emotional deficits.

·        Steps to Emotional Regulation: The process of emotional regulation begins with validating our own feelings of shame, guilt, and anger. Dr. Kelley emphasizes the importance of slowing down to truly feel these emotions before attempting to change them.

·        Values, Shame, and Guilt: Insight into how our values shape our experiences of shame and guilt. Dr. Kelley challenges listeners to reflect on how their behavior aligns with their values and to distinguish between justified and unjustified feelings.

·        Conflict Resolution and Gaslighting: Exploration of conflict resolution techniques and the detrimental effects of gaslighting. Dr. Kelley discusses the courage needed to confront our deepest fears of rejection and abandonment, and the discipline required to stay true to our values.

Dr. Kelly’s Social Media Handles:

• Instagram: @DrJJKelly
• TikTok: punkrock1

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• 7-Week Course on Yoga, Yoga Therapy & Polyvagal Theory
• Optimal State Mobile App
• New Moon and Full Moon Meditations with Optimal State: Email Welcome@TheOptimalState.com for details on June, July, and August 2024 sessions
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

·        Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

·        Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

·        For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.