Raina Kilgore is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor with over a decade of experience in human and social services. She holds dual Master’s degrees in Marriage & Family Counseling from Adler School of Professional Psychology and Human Service Administration from Spertus College. Raina is also certified in DBT Therapy and has led impactful work in corrections, mental health hospitals, and child welfare. She’s developed and led programs addressing mental health and substance abuse, including teen prevention initiatives and family reunification efforts. Passionate about breaking down barriers, Raina is committed to helping individuals and families build healthier, more empowered lives.

In this episode, Dante and Raina discuss:

• The origin and mission behind ZEM Therapy
• Why therapy shouldn't wait for a crisis
• The difference between CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed therapy
• Common communication breakdowns in relationships
• The evolving role of love languages and emotional connection in couples counseling

Key Takeaways: 

• Therapy isn’t just for when something’s broken—it’s also a powerful tool for growth. Even those in a good place can benefit from therapy to strengthen what’s already working and create new possibilities.
• Many communication issues arise not from disagreement, but from misaligned interpretations of the same topic. Couples may be discussing the same subject—but not in the same way.
• Loving your partner effectively means understanding their needs, not just expressing your own. It’s about discovering what truly resonates with them and showing up in ways that matter most.
• Through DBT and CBT, clients can challenge limiting beliefs and reshape harmful thought patterns. These evidence-based methods help bring clarity and control to emotional experiences.
• Nothing replaces face-to-face conversations when it comes to emotional connection. While texting offers convenience, meaningful dialogue thrives on presence, tone, and undivided attention.

“I am not a judge, and so this is not—you’re not on a trial here. Even if a person is doing something that is not favorable, they still need empathy, they still need compassion, they still need someone to hear them.” - Raina Kilgore

Connect with Raina Kilgore:

Website: https://zemtherapy.org/ 

Phone: 708-414-6842

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: dante@epic.mortgage

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.