Behavioral Health Today

Anger as a Guide: Navigating the Roots of Suppressed Emotions with Bronwyn Schweigerdt, LMFT – Episode 343

Anger isn't the enemy—it's a warning light, signaling that something deeper needs attention. When we validate and express it constructively, we unlock empathy, self-awareness, and stronger relationships. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Bronwyn Schweigerdt, LMFT—a licensed psychotherapist, public speaker, author, and host of “Angry at the Right Things”. Bronwyn is known for her evocative approach to therapy, helping clients externalize and process deeply buried emotions like anger and rage. She believes these intense feelings, when acknowledged and expressed, are key to overcoming mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. By fostering a healthy relationship with anger, Bronwyn empowers individuals to set boundaries, build self-trust, and break free from dysfunctional patterns. Her work is rooted in the belief that sharing trauma with a compassionate listener transforms isolation into healing. We're thrilled to have her here to explore healthy anger management, the power of processing intense emotions, and practical strategies for creating a healthier relationship with anger.

 

Subscribe to “Angry At The Right Things” Podcast hosted by Bronwyn Schweigerdt at: https://angryattherightthings.podbean.com
For more information about Bronwyn and her private practice, please visit: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/bronwyn-schweigerdt-lompoc-ca/1080547
Connect with Bronwyn on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bronwyn-schweigerdt-3124857
Connect with Bronwyn on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/bronwyn.schweigerdt/

Building Brighter Futures: Proactive Mental Health Solutions for Schools with Leslie Cole – Episode 342

eLuma is transforming mental health support in schools with flexible, proactive solutions for both general and special education students. By offering high-quality online therapy, addressing staffing shortages, and providing trauma-informed care, eLuma partners with schools to create healthier, more supportive environments that promote growth and healing for students, staff, and families. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Leslie Cole, Director of School Solutions at eLuma. A former school psychologist and MTSS coordinator, Leslie has dedicated her career to fostering psychological safety and connectedness within education. At eLuma, she continues to develop tailored solutions that address the unique needs of students and support the well-being of everyone in the educational community. We're thrilled to have Leslie on the show to explore how eLuma is helping schools address mental health challenges through scalable, innovative solutions that empower teachers, administrators, and parents alike.

 

For more information about eLuma, please visit: https://eluma.com
To Join the eLuma Clinician Community, please visit: https://jobs.eluma.com
To schedule a free consultation, please visit: https://eluma.com/consultation/
Connect with eLuma on Linedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elumatherapy/
Connect with eLuma on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/elumatherapy/
Connect with eLuma on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/elumatherapy/
Connect with eLuma on Twitter/X at: https://twitter.com/eLumatherapy
Connect with eLuma on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHurmK6cjNlpwp_hr48VDwQ

Building Boundaries: The Art of Maintaining Healthy Therapeutic Relationships with Ragan Schriver, PsyD, MSW – Episode 341

Healthy boundaries are the foundation for growth, healing, and authentic connections in therapy. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Ragan Schriver, PsyD, MSW, about how setting clear limits protects both therapists and clients while promoting real change. Ragan is an Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee College of Social Work, Director of the MSSW Program at the Knoxville Campus, and chair of the Forensic Social Work Certificate Program. He also serves as Special Assistant to the President of Catholic Charities USA, helping to develop integrated health programs across the network. Join us as we explore the evolution of boundaries in clinical work, common misconceptions, and practical strategies for teaching boundary-setting skills.

 

For more information about the University of Tennessee and its College of Social Work Program, please visit: https://www.csw.utk.edu/
For more information about the UT College of Social Work’s Trauma Treatment Post-Graduate Certification Program, please visit: https://csw.utk.edu/academics-and-programs/postgraduate-certificates/trauma-treatment/
For more information about the UT College of Social Work’s Organized Leadership Post-Graduate Certification Program, please visit: https://csw.utk.edu/academics-and-programs/postgraduate-certificates/organizational-leadership/
If you are interested in an Information Session to learn more about UT’s Social Work Program, learn more at: https://csw.utk.edu/admissions-and-aid/visit/attend-an-information-session/#online

Emotional Anatomy: How Unbalanced Emotions Impact Your Body & Nervous System with Denise Schonwald, BSRN, LMHC – Episode 340

Your body speaks the language of emotions, and understanding the signals of an imbalanced nervous system can reveal the powerful link between mind, body, and healing. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon is joined by Denise Schonwald, a nationally licensed mental health counselor, published author, and public speaker. With over 30 years of experience as an ICU nurse, Denise integrates her deep understanding of the mind-body connection with spiritually based practices to offer a holistic approach to mental health. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, marital issues, and childhood trauma, often with the help of her therapy dog, Henry, who brings comfort to her sessions. Denise also passionately advocates for the mental health of first responders, speaking nationwide about the critical relationship between mental and physical well-being. We’re thrilled to have her on the show to explore how recognizing this connection leads to more effective and compassionate patient care.

 

For more information about “Healing Your Body by Mastering Your Mind” by Denise Schonwald, BSRN, LMHC, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1938842510
For more information about Denise Schonwald, please visit: https://deniseschonwald.com
If you would like to contact Denise, please email: dschonwaldllc@gmail.com
Connect with Denise on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/deniseschonwaldllc/
Connect on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-schonwald/
Connect on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/deniseschonwald/
Connect on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@deniseschonwald/videos

Holistic Health: Nutrition, Mindfulness, & Reclaiming Your Well-Being with Dr. Donna Poppendieck – Episode 339

Transform your health from the inside out. By integrating mindful nutrition and holistic practices, you can reclaim your well-being without the need for extreme interventions. Small, intentional changes make a big impact on your mental and physical health. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor is joined by Dr. Donna Poppendieck, an expert in holistic health with over 15 years of experience in mental health education and dual-diagnosis treatment. Donna is the founder of Health and Wellness Online LLC, an innovative platform offering science-based courses on natural approaches to mental and physical well-being for both professionals and the public. Her mission is to empower individuals to achieve optimal health through accessible, research-backed alternatives to conventional medicine. Join us as we explore how nutrition can serve as a cornerstone for mental wellness and lasting health.

 

For more information about Health and Wellness Online, please visit: https://healthandwellnessonline.org
View available Holistic Guides provided by Health and Wellness Online: https://healthandwellnessonline.org/holistic-guides/
Learn more about available CEU Courses, please visit: https://healthandwellnessonline.org/courselist/
Read blog posts by Dr. Poppendieck to get insight on a holistic healthy living:https://healthandwellnessonline.org/blog-posts/
Connect with Health and Wellness Online on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/healthandwellnessonlinellc/
Subscribe to Health and Wellness Online on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC244vll4b0IK_gSa6aA7RrQ

 

Navigating Youth & Trauma: Early Recognition & the Path to Healing with Dr. Sharnell Myles – Episode 338

Early trauma leaves lasting marks, but it's never too late to heal. Join us as we explore how to recognize and address trauma in youth, empowering the next generation with the support they need to thrive. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Dr. Sharnell Myles. Sharnell is the Chief Clinical Officer at Embark Behavioral Health, licensed psychotherapist, and certified clinical trauma professional with over 25 years of experience. As the founder of JoyUs Beginnings Child & Family Wellness Center and The Urban Trauma Positive Impact Center, Dr. Myles is a leader in the field, specializing in complex trauma treatment. She has pioneered trauma-informed care systems and authored Georgia’s first Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Protocol for schools. With expertise in child and adolescent trauma, including abuse, community and racial trauma, and domestic minor sex trafficking, Dr. Myles is a highly sought-after speaker and trainer, serving on various boards, including the DeKalb County Juvenile Court Mental Health Court. We’re thrilled to have Sharnell share her insights into supporting youth facing trauma and offering practical strategies for caregivers and professionals alike.

 

For more information about Embark Behavioral Health, please visit: https://www.embarkbh.com
Download free parenting resources at: https://www.embarkbh.com/parenting-guide/
Get involved with The Social Justice Café for Girls, a safe space to address issues that impact girls, founded by Dr. Sharnell Myles: https://www.socialjusticecafeforgirls.org
Connect with Embark Behavioral Health on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/embarkbh
Connect with Embark Behavioral Health on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/embark_bh/
Connect on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/embarkbh
Connect on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/34216778
Connect on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4CPJ_QymYvOJl0T-jL1OMA

 

Balancing Heart & Finances: Navigating Money & Sustainability in Private Practice with Linzy Bonham – Episode 337

Building a sustainable therapy practice means valuing both your clients' needs and your own financial well-being. It's time to embrace your worth, take control of your money, and design a life you truly enjoy—without guilt or shame. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Linzy Bonham, a therapist and consultant who specializes in guiding fellow practitioners toward financial confidence and peace of mind. As the creator of the renowned course Money Skills for Therapists, Linzy has helped countless therapists and health professionals take control of their finances with clarity and ease. She also hosts the Money Skills for Therapists Podcast, where she breaks down the complexities of private practice finances into practical, manageable steps. We're thrilled to welcome Linzy back as we explore actionable strategies to overcome money shame and achieve financial well-being in your practice—without guilt, and with greater confidence.

 

For more information about Money Skills for Therapists, please visit: https://moneynutsandbolts.com/masterclass-signup/

For more information about Money Skills for Group Practice Owners, please visit: https://moneynutsandbolts.com/msgpo-waitlist-2/

For more information about Money Skills for Therapists podcast, please visit: https://moneynutsandbolts.com/podcast/

For more information about Money, Nuts & Bolts, please visit: https://moneynutsandbolts.com

Connect with MNB on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/moneynutsandbolts/

Connect with Linzy Bonham on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linzybonham/

Clinicians Series: The Listening Path—Navigating Conversations with Empathy and Connection with Christine Miles – Episode 336

Listening is not about agreement, but about understanding. It unlocks the door to genuine connection, weaving together both facts and feelings into meaningful stories. Empathy follows only after we’ve mastered the art of listening. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Christine Miles, a renowned executive coach, thought leader, entrepreneur, and world expert in transformative listening. Christine is the author of “What Is It Costing You Not to Listen?: The Power of Understanding to Connect, Influence, Solve & Sell”, and has spent over 25 years helping executives, individuals, and families deepen human connections, transforming both businesses and lives. With a BS in Psychology from Millersville University and a Master’s in Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, Christine is also the Founder and CEO of Equipt, an organization dedicated to helping businesses apply human skills to drive results and cultivate empathy-based cultures. We're thrilled to have Christine with us today to explore the profound impact of listening and discuss insights from her book.

 

For more information about The Listening Path, please visit: https://thelisteningpath.com

For more information about “What Is It Costing You To Listen” by Christine Miles, please visit: https://thelisteningpath.com/listening-book/

Connect with The Listening Path on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thelisteningpathsystem
Connect with The Listening Path on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGzP5PyPkrqG7BayFs0kU_g

Connect with The Listening Path on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/company/equipt-the-listening-path/

Bridging the Gap: Addressing Mental Health Access & Client-Therapist Fit with Ram Krishnan – Episode 335

As the demand for mental health services continues to rise, access to care and finding the right therapist remain pressing challenges. How can we close the gap between growing awareness and ensuring sustainable, effective treatment for everyone in need? In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Ram Krishnan, CEO of Valant, a leading EHR software provider for behavioral health practices. With a background in healthcare information management and a history of driving market-changing innovations, Ram began his career as a systems engineer and holds an MBA from the University of Chicago. Since joining Valant in 2020, Ram has led the company through significant growth, prioritizing customer feedback and building strong teams. Under his leadership, Valant continues to enhance its service to the behavioral healthcare market. We're thrilled to have Ram back to discuss the latest trends in mental health accessibility and how we can improve access to care.

 

For more information about Valent, please visit: https://www.valant.io
To get a Live Personal Demo of how Valent can help your practice, please visit: https://www.valant.io/request-live-demo
To watch a recorded software demonstration video, please visit: https://www.valant.io/buy/watch-recorded-demo
Connect with Valent on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/valant-medical-solutions
Connect with Valent on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ValantMed/
Connect with Valent on X at: https://twitter.com/valant

From Isolation to Connection: Healing Ourselves & Our Communities with Minaa B., LCSW – Episode 334

Collective healing starts with self-awareness and intentional action. By confronting our biases, nurturing connection, and embracing both personal and communal responsibility, we can mend our fractured society and move toward genuine growth. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Minaa B., a licensed social worker, mental health educator, and author of “Owning Our Struggles.” Minaa’s extensive experience spans psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as work in early childhood programs, private practice, and community mental health. With a graduate degree from New York University, she is also the founder of Minaa B. Consulting, where she focuses on cultivating psychological safety within organizations. As a mental health educator and coach, Minaa integrates mental health with social justice, empowering individuals and communities. Based in New York City, Minaa is committed to fostering personal growth and societal healing. We’re excited to have her back to discuss self-efficacy, community building, and her book, Owning Your Struggles: A Path to Healing and Finding Community in a Broken World."

 

For more information about “Owning Our Struggles: A Path to Healing and Finding Community in a Broken World” by Minaa B., LCSW, please visit: https://www.minaab.com/books

For more information about Minaa B., please visit: https://www.minaab.com
To subscribe to Minaa’s newsletter, please visit: https://minaab.substack.com

To learn more about Mindful with Mina podcast, please visit: https://www.minaab.com/mindful-with-minaa-podcast

Connect with Minaa on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/minaa-b

Connect with Minaa on Instagram at: http://facebook.com/minaablmsw

Clinicians Series: Navigating Invisible Losses with Christina Rasmussen – Episode 333

Invisible losses often trap us in survival mode, leaving us living a life that doesn’t align with who we truly are. By acknowledging and validating these unseen wounds, we unlock the potential for healing, self-compassion, and reclaiming our authentic selves. This episode takes listeners behind the proverbial therapy door, offering insight into the processes and techniques that guide therapeutic healing. In this Clinicians Series episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Christina Rasmussen, a renowned grief educator and bestselling author of "Second Firsts," "Where Did You Go?," and "Invisible Loss." Following the loss of her spouse to cancer in 2010, Christina developed the Life Reentry process—a compassionate approach to helping individuals navigate grief and move forward. With a master's degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Durham and currently pursuing an MFA in painting and drawing at the Academy of Art, Christina brings both personal and professional wisdom to her work. Her groundbreaking insights have been featured on ABC News, Women’s World, The Washington Post, and even the White House Blog, while also contributing to Psychology Today.

 

For more information about Invisible Loss: Recognizing and Healing the Unacknowledged Heartbreak of Everyday Grief by Christina Rasmussen, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1649630077
For more information about Christina Rasmussen, please visit: https://christinarasmussen.com
To view the research articles and other blog articles on insivible losses, please visit: https://christinarasmussen.com/blog/

Share your own invisible losses and contribute to the Invisible Losses Library at: https://invisiblelosses.com

Connect with Christina on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/christinarasmussen7/

Connect with Christina on Facebook at: https://facebook.com/secondfirsts

Shifting Core Beliefs: The Power of Letting Go, Curiosity, & Hope with Jon Steele, LMFT – Episode 332

Curiosity opens the door to healing—small shifts in belief can change the entire trajectory. Embrace the next play with hope, not perfection. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Jon Steele, LMFT. Jon is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has focused his private practice on treating high performance clients including athletes and professionals. With personal experience as a former collegiate athlete, Jon combines the complexities of the athlete experience with the performance of professional life. His specialties include treating anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, and building mental fitness. Whether working with athletes or high-achieving professionals, he helps his clients combat shame, build healthy coping strategies, and increase self-compassion amidst high pressure environments. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of curiosity, free from harmful judgment, and discover how to apply this mindset to support high-performing individuals in their journeys.

 

Watch the Mental Fitness Stories podcast with Jon Steele, please subscribe on major podcast platforms or visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCttffNmewd9oJIU8b-nU9aw

For more information about Jon Steele and his private practice, please visit: https://www.jonsteeletherapy.com
To learn more about sports, grief, and loss, please read Jon’s blog by visiting: https://www.jonsteeletherapy.com/blog
Connect with Jon Steele on LinkedIn, please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-steele-169061a6
Or connect with Jon on Facebook at Jon Steele, LMFT ,or visit: https://www.facebook.com/jonsteelelmftsports/

Grandiose vs. Vulnerable Narcissism: Navigating Ego, Social Media, & Self-Worth with Keith Campbell, PhD – Episode 331

In this episode, we dive into the intricate world of narcissism, examining how both grandiose and vulnerable traits influence self-esteem, relationships, and the impact of social media on these behaviors. Dr. Graham Taylor is joined by Dr. Keith Campbell, Professor of Psychology at the University of Georgia and a leading expert on narcissism. Keith has authored over 200 scientific papers and several notable books, including “The Narcissism Epidemic: Living in the Age of Entitlement and The New Science of Narcissism”. His work has been featured in various media outlets, from The Today Show to The Joe Rogan Experience, and he is the creator of a widely-viewed TED-Ed lesson on narcissism. With degrees from UC Berkeley, San Diego State University, and a Ph.D. from UNC Chapel Hill, Keith brings a wealth of knowledge to our conversation on the rise of entitlement in modern society.

 

For more information about Keith Campbell, please visit: https://www.wkeithcampbell.com

For more information about “The Narcissism Epidemic: Living in the Age of Entitlement” by W. Keith Campbell, PhD, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Narcissism-Epidemic-Living-Age-Entitlement-ebook/dp/B00256Z3AY?ref_=ast_author_dp

For more information about “The New Science of Narcissism: Understanding One of the Greatest Psychological Challenges of Our Time—and What You Can Do About It” by W. Keith Campbell, PhD, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Science-Narcissism-Understanding-Psychological-Time-ebook/dp/B089LGLN1D?ref_=ast_author_dp

 

Growing Through Grief: The LIGHT Movement with Amy Pickett-Williams, LCSW – Episode 330

Grief touches every part of us—mind, body, and spirit—but through LIGHT, we remind people they're not alone, offering somatic tools to help them ‘grow from grief’ and stand in solidarity with others. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor is joined by Amy Pickett-Williams, LCSW, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience specializing in grief, trauma, and somatic therapy. Amy is the founder of LIGHT (Love In Grief, Held Together), a movement focused on collective healing and support. With a holistic approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit, Amy’s work draws from both her personal journey and extensive professional background. In addition to her psychotherapy practice, she is a certified yoga instructor with diverse experience across medical, school-based, and private settings, working with clients of all ages. Today, Amy shares the transformative impact of the LIGHT Movement, emphasizing somatic healing, creativity, and connection in addressing various forms of grief.

 

For more information about LIGHT, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com
To learn more about the 20-Hour Somatic Healing Training or other upcoming LIGHT trainings, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com/offerings/trainings

For more grief resources, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com/resources
To donate to LiGHT, please visit: https://www.lightmvmt.com/donate
Connect with LIGHT on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/lightmvmt
Connect with LIGHT on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/lightmvmt
Connect with LIGHT on Linkedin at: http://linkedin.com/company/the-light-movement

Breaking Barriers: Taraji P. Henson’s Mission for Mental Health Equity with Tracie Jade Jenkins & BLHF – Episode 329

When Taraji P. Henson faced challenges finding a therapist for herself and her son, it ignited a mission to tackle the mental health barriers impacting Black and marginalized communities. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Tracie Jade Jenkins, the Executive Director of the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF). Founded in 2018, BLHF is dedicated to prioritizing mental health in Black communities through culturally competent resources, programs, and education across the nation. This initiative was born from a deeply personal story of loss and frustration. Taraji, alongside her close ally Tracie, launched the foundation to honor the memory of Taraji’s father, Boris Lawrence Henson—a Vietnam War veteran who faced untreated mental health issues upon his return. Witnessing the lasting impact of Boris’s struggles, Taraji and Tracie were driven to address the glaring lack of culturally relevant mental health support in the Black community. Join us as we explore Tracie’s journey, the transformative work of BLHF, and the ongoing efforts to reshape mental health support for Black communities.

 

For more information about the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, please visit: https://borislhensonfoundation.org

Learn more about the BLHF Joy Walk happening Oct 10^th, please visit: https://borislhensonfoundation.org/joy-walk/

For more information about other BLHF events, please visit: https://borislhensonfoundation.org/events/

To get involved with BLHF, please visit: https://borislhensonfoundation.org/get-involved/

Connect with BLHF on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/blhensonfoundation/

Connect with BLHF on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/102106068/

Connect with BLHF on X at: https://twitter.com/BLHFoundation

Connect with BLHF on facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/blhensonfoundation/