Behavioral Health Today

How to Navigate the Depths of Seasonal Affective Disorder with Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt – Episode 352

True wellness thrives in the balance of stress, sleep, nutrition, and mindful practices that support the autonomic nervous system. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt, a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, OCD, and grief. Specializing in the integration of psychology and spiritual growth, Dr. Bajt empowers clients to achieve harmony between mind, body, and spirit. Named a Top Woman in Medicine in 2023 and honored with the Impact Award for her transformative work, Dr. Bajt joins us today to explore Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—how it differs from typical depression, the importance of sunlight and Vitamin D for mental health, and practical strategies for managing SAD.

 

For more information about Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt, please visit: https://drbajt.com/
For more information about “Do One Thing Different: Ten Simple Ways to Change Your Life” by Bill O’Hanlon, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Do-One-Thing-Different-Simple-ebook/dp/B00CKOV8YQ
For more information about “Nutrient Power: Heal Your Biochemistry and Heal Your Brain” by William J. Walsh, PhD, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Nutrient-Power-Heal-Biochemistry-Brain/dp/1620872587

View helpful resources on the American Psychological Association (APA) at: https://www.apa.org
View resources at the National Institute of Health (NIH) at: https://www.nih.gov
View resources or Find a Therapist at Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

View resources at the Mayo Clinic at: https://www.mayoclinic.org

View resources at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at: https://www.nami.org

Mindful Minds: Building Brain Resilience Through Lifestyle Medicine with Dr. Sui Wong – Episode 351

Your brain thrives on balance—sleep, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness. Small changes lead to a life well-lived. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Dr. Sui Wong, an award-winning neurologist and neuro-ophthalmologist based in London. Dr. Wong specializes in integrating mindfulness and lifestyle medicine into brain health, blending over 20 years of clinical expertise with cutting-edge neuroscience research. She is passionate about turning science into actionable, person-centered solutions and dedicates her time to volunteering with organizations like the Visual Snow Initiative and IIH UK As the founder of the Brain Health Practice, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to well-being, focusing on balancing the autonomic nervous system and empowering patients to create lasting behavioral change. Today, she shares her journey into neurology and how mindfulness, lifestyle medicine, and practical strategies can transform both brain and body health.

For more information about Dr. Sui Wong and to subscribe to her Thursday Tips, please visit: https://www.drsuiwongmd.com
For more information about “Mindfulness for Brain Health: Neuroscience-Informed Mindfulness in Plain English, Empowering You with Self-Care and Mindfulness Meditation Practices for Clarity, Peace, and Joy” by Dr. Sui H. Wong, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Mindfulness-Brain-Health-Neuroscience-Informed-Empowering/dp/1738558118
For more information about Sui’s other written books, please visit: https://www.drsuiwongmd.com/books
Connect with Dr. Sui Wong on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/drsuiwong.neurologist/
Connect with Dr. Sui Wong on Linkedin at: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dr-sui-wong-neurologist

The Hopeless Generation: Addressing Youth Isolation & Disconnection with Dr. Henry Venter – Episode 350

Young people today are drowning in hopelessness—disconnected, disillusioned, and abandoning love, dreams, and life itself. It’s time to offer a lifeline, not excuses. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor sits down with Dr. Henry Venter, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of psychology with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice and education. Dr. Venter’s research focuses on the growing mental health crisis among young adults, particularly the rise of loneliness and the critical role of meaning and purpose in achieving happiness and fulfillment. Drawing on a holistic therapeutic approach that combines client-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and psychodynamic principles, Dr. Venter offers valuable insights into addressing these challenges. Join us as we discuss his findings on the alarming rise of loneliness and the so-called “Giving Up Generation,” and explore the pathways to hope and reconnection. You can connect with Dr. Venter on his YouTube channel, @Restart.

 

For more information about Dr. Henry Venter at National University and his various publications, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/degrees/social-sciences/faculty/dr-henry-venter/

For more information about Restart YouTube Channel, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@restartafterfailure
To contact Dr. Henry Venter, please email at: henryjventer@gmail.com
Connect with Dr. Venter on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drhenryventer

Clinicians Series: Raising Great Listeners Through Empathy & Connection with Christine Miles – Episode 349

Listening isn’t just hearing words—it’s about fostering empathy, connection, and understanding to build stronger relationships. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Christine Miles, a leading expert in transformative listening. Christine, author of What Is It Costing You Not to Listen?: The Power of Understanding to Connect, Influence, Solve & Sell, has dedicated over 25 years to helping individuals, families, and organizations enhance human connection.

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, a company that empowers businesses to develop empathy-driven cultures and apply human skills for impactful results. Today, Christine shares why teaching kids to listen is essential, offers practical strategies to cultivate this skill, and provides tools to overcome common challenges and distractions.

 

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/

Inside Casey's Clubhouse: Empowering Kids with Social-Emotional Skills with Laura Doerflinger Schneider – Episode 348

Helping kids thrive with emotional skills for life—Casey’s Clubhouse empowers children through storytelling, creativity, and empathy. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Laura Doerflinger Schneider, LMHC, a seasoned mental health therapist with over 31 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. As the founder of Casey’s Clubhouse, Laura created an engaging animated series for kids ages 6-12, equipping them with essential social-emotional skills like self-regulation, empathy, and problem-solving. Combining her expertise in counseling with innovative tools, Laura’s work inspires growth, resilience, and connection in both therapy and education. Join us as we explore the heart and vision behind Casey’s Clubhouse and its transformative impact on children’s emotional learning.

 

For more information about Casey’s Clubhouse, please visit: https://www.caseys-clubhouse.com
For more information about Casey’s Clubhouse curriculum, please visit: https://www.caseys-clubhouse.com/curriculum
Free curriculum resources for kids and parents can be found at: https://www.caseys-clubhouse.com/blog
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/caseysclubhouse
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/learnwithcasey/
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@caseysclubhouse
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4egYXC87lLRxGZvRNkqzZQ

Forgiveness as Medicine: Healing Through Unconditional Love & the Power of the Right Brain with Dara McKinley – Episode 347

Forgiveness is a healing journey fueled by unconditional love—learn to quiet the mind, engage the heart, and free yourself from emotional burdens. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Dara McKinley, a seasoned expert in spirituality and health with over 30 years of experience. Dara's exploration of forgiveness began with a profound personal challenge in 2012, inspiring her to create a practical, structured approach to this often-misunderstood process. By redefining forgiveness and breaking it down into clear, actionable steps, Dara empowers others to find peace and healing where traditional methods fall short. Join us as we dive into Dara’s unique framework, exploring how her personal journey and professional expertise converge to make forgiveness a powerful tool for lasting transformation.

 

For more information about Dara McKinley, please visit: https://daramckinley.com
For more information about the upcoming How To Forgive, a 6-week structured forgiveness course, please visit: https://howtoforgive.com
Connect with Dara on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Dara-McKinley-688402261553989/
Connect with Dara on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/DaraMcKinley/

Habits for Thriving: Unlocking ADHD Strengths in Kids & Teens with Jon Zeitlin – Episode 346

ADHD isn’t a barrier—it’s a blueprint for success. By building habits, playing to strengths, and managing challenges, kids and teens can thrive in school, relationships, and life. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Jon Zeitlin. Jon is the co-founder of HabitCoach, the Hallowell Todaro ADHD Center in California, and CoachJon, where he helps teens and adults with ADHD develop executive functioning skills and strategies. A three-time Chief Executive and senior corporate leader, Jon has personally overcome his own executive function challenges and ADHD symptoms, building compensating mechanisms to succeed in both his career and personal life. With degrees from Yale and Stanford, Jon brings a wealth of experience and insight into ADHD coaching, while also being a dedicated father of three, including one child with ADHD. Through HabitCoach, he is passionate about sharing his knowledge and creating effective resources to support kids and teens with ADHD. We’re excited to have Jon with us today to explore the creation of HabitCoach, how it addresses the shortage of ADHD support for kids and parents, the executive function challenges it targets, and the program's unique approach to building lasting habits and integrating parents into the process.

 

For more information about HabitCoach and take a Free Assessment Exam, please visit: https://habitcoach.com
For parenting resources, video training and more, please visit: https://habitcoach.com/parent-training/
Connect with HabitCoach on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/help-habitcoach
Connect with HabitCoach on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/habitcoachef/
Connect with HabitCoach on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561030866578

The Love Habit: Building Healthy Relationships Through Self-Awareness & Boundaries with Rainie Howard – Episode 345

Healthy love begins within. By cultivating self-awareness, setting clear boundaries, and aligning with what energizes you, you open the door to thriving relationships and uncover the habits that create a life of joy and connection. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Rainie Howard, a sought-after speaker, bestselling author, media personality, and business leader whose global platform has inspired over 10 million people. Rainie’s book, “The Love Habit: Daily Self-Care Practices for a Happier Life and Healthier Relationships”, empowers readers to transform their lives through spiritual and mental growth while fostering meaningful connections. As the host of The Rainie Howard Show, she inspires audiences with her wisdom and actionable insights. Today, we’re excited to dive into Rainie’s personal journey of self-care, explore her transformative LOVE framework for healthier communication, and discover practical strategies for self-reinvention.

 

For more information about “The Love Habit: Daily Self-Care Practices for a Happier Life and Healthier Relationships” by Rainie Howard, please visit: https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9781506496740/The-Love-Habit
For more information about Rainie Howard, please visit: https://www.rainiehoward.com
For more information about The Rainie Howard Show podcast, please visit: https://www.rainiehoward.com/podcast
Connect with Rainie on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/rainiehoward/
Connect with Rainie on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Rainie.Howard.Author
Connect with Rainie on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/user/RainieHoward

Reclaiming Energy: Balancing Life, Work, & Connection in a Changing World with Dr. Gregory Charlop – Episode 344

Life isn’t just about productivity—it’s about discovering what energizes and sustains you. By embracing creativity, play, and meaningful connections, we can transform burnout into a call for balance and joy. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor welcomes Dr. Gregory Charlop, a distinguished physician, executive coach, and wellness expert. With training at Stanford and UCLA, Dr. Greg has managed complex medical cases in San Francisco and gained unique insights into mental health and nutrition through his work with elite plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills. As the founder of the Physician Wellness Project, he specializes in addressing burnout among healthcare professionals, helping them build healthier work-life relationships and reimagine their careers in the context of longer life spans. Together, they’ll explore how to assess your work-life balance, redefine career priorities, and tap into creative outlets to enhance well-being and fulfillment.

 

For more information about Dr. Gregory Charlop, please visit: https://www.gregorycharlopmd.com
For more information about the Corsica Conference, please visit: https://www.gregorycharlopmd.com/corsica-conference
Connect with Gregory on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorycharlop/
Connect with Gregory on Twitter/X at: https://x.com/Gcharlopmd
Connect with Gregory on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC2AkiRFf6NDRc3MT0eBLNw

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
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