Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes

Chapters: 00:00:00 - Differential Diagnosis of Personality Disorders from a Trauma-Informed Perspective 00:03:07 - Signs of Personality Disorder in Children 00:06:14 - Paranoid Personality Characteristics 00:09:05 - Childhood Trauma and Personality Disorders 00:12:10 - Flat Affect and Chronic Stress 00:15:07 - Schizoid personality and flattened affect in depression 00:18:05 - Autism Spectrum and Schizotypal Personality Disorders 00:21:04 - Avoidant Personality Disorder and Social Anxiety 00:24:03 - Fear of Abandonment and Intimacy 00:27:10 - Dependent Personality Disorder Characteristics 00:30:04 - Antisocial Personality Disorder Characteristics 00:33:06 - Understanding Self-Destructive Behaviors 00:36:17 - Understanding Abandonment and Borderline Personality 00:39:24 - Borderline Personality Characteristics 00:42:27 - Borderline Personality Characteristics 00:45:16 - Understanding Manic Episodes and Personality Disorders 00:48:07 - Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder 00:51:05 - Cultural Influences on Behavior and Perception 00:54:06 - Cultural gender roles and personality traits 00:56:54 - Addiction and Withdrawal Symptoms 00:59:41 - Personality Disorders and Treatment Centers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

00:00:00 - Trauma and Personality Disorders 00:05:12 - Caregivers and Inconsistency 00:10:31 - The Effects of Disregulated Stress Response System 00:15:59 - Anxious Attachment Styles 00:21:29 - The Impact of Chaos on the Family Unit 00:26:53 - Fear of Emotional Intimacy 00:32:12 - The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences 00:37:35 - Attachment and Trust Issues 00:42:51 - Insecure Attachment and Emotional Disregulation 00:48:07 - Personality Disorders and Their Behaviors 00:53:23 - Reflecting on Childhood Experiences 00:58:40 - Mitigating Distress and Empowerment 01:03:57 - Helping People Learn Healthy Boundaries and Attachment 01:09:17 - Evaluating Relationships and Behaviors 01:14:29 - Understanding People-Pleasing and Trust Issues 01:19:38 - The Inability to Feel Love and Apathy in HPA Axis Disregulation. 01:24:41 - Audio Journaling and Self-Reflection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapters: 00:00:00 - Overview of Total Family Intervention 00:02:18 - Empathy and Interventions for Mental Health Issues 00:04:44 - The Importance of Interventions for Mental Health 00:06:52 - The Importance of Interventionists with Adequate Training 00:09:09 - Effects of Addiction on Family Dynamics 00:11:27 - Involving the Whole Family in Interventions 00:13:44 - Impact of Addictive Behaviors on Family Members 00:16:00 - Impact on Loved Ones of Addiction and Mental Health Disorders 00:18:11 - Challenges of understanding bipolar disorder 00:20:21 - Total Family Intervention Steps 00:22:22 - The Initial Contact in an Intervention 00:24:28 - Educating about Interventions 00:26:33 - Developing Hope Through Intervention 00:28:47 - Motivating factors for interventions 00:33:07 - Involuntary Commitment for Addiction and Mental Health Issues 00:35:18 - Managing Stress and Setting Boundaries 00:37:43 - Screening for Addiction and Mental Health Issues 00:39:49 - Making a Plan for Change 00:42:01 - Initial Placement for Treatment 00:44:08 - Overcoming barriers to seeking treatment 00:46:25 - Impact of Behavior on Relationships 00:48:42 - Handling objections in interventions 00:50:51 - Effective Intervention Strategies 00:53:09 - Moving Forward towards Treatment 00:55:23 - Empowering Patients through Follow-Up 00:57:26 - The Importance of Intervention Timing 00:59:47 - On-Demand CEUs for Podcast Viewers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapters: 00:00:00 - Applying ethical principles to common violations 00:00:57 - The Four Pillars of Ethical Mental Health Services 00:01:51 - Ethical Decision-Making Process 00:02:45 - Ethical dilemmas in counseling: Sexual relationships with clients 00:03:35 - Dating Clients and Unchecked Feelings 00:04:45 - The Four Windows of Awareness 00:05:31 - Boundaries and Self-Care 00:06:30 - Breach of Confidentiality 00:07:22 - Maintaining Client Confidentiality in Conversations 00:08:31 - Confidentiality and Privacy Concerns 00:09:27 - Confidentiality Breach in Credit Card Transactions 00:10:21 - Providing Private Entrances and Exits for Clients 00:11:15 - Protecting Identifiable Information 00:12:10 - Redacting Personal Information 00:13:11 - Update to CFR 42 Part Two 00:14:00 - Changes to CFR 42 Part Two 00:14:46 - The Importance of Confidentiality and Disclosure 00:15:46 - Working with Psychotic Episodes and Schizophrenia 00:16:39 - Treating Eating Disorders in Children 00:17:36 - Careful Child Advocacy Center Interviews 00:18:31 - Unethical Billing Practices in Tele Mental Health 00:19:26 - Understanding Co-Insurance in Healthcare Billing 00:20:20 - Addressing Unethical Behavior and Personal Issues Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapters: 00:00:00 - Boundary Extensions 00:03:01 - Attending Clients' Formal Ceremonies 00:06:00 - Navigating Dual Relationships in Therapy 00:09:17 - Providing Support in Difficult Situations 00:12:16 - Setting Healthy Boundaries with Clients 00:15:15 - Ensuring Continuity of Counseling Services 00:18:23 - Safety Issues with Home Visits 00:21:18 - Ensuring Continuity of Care 00:24:20 - Continuity of Services in the Event of an Interruption 00:27:28 - Accessing Electronic Medical Records Safely 00:30:26 - Protecting Client Confidentiality 00:33:33 - Disaster Preparedness for Electronic Health Records 00:36:39 - Confidentiality and Compliance 00:39:53 - Safeguarding Client Confidentiality 00:42:36 - Advocating for Client Privacy 00:45:22 - Ensuring Client Privacy and Empowerment 00:48:15 - Limiting access to client files and informed consent 00:51:23 - Informed Consent and Treatment Policies 00:54:01 - Considerations for Referrals and Treatment 00:57:14 - Upcoming Live Webinar Marathons 01:01:01 - Final Thoughts and Goodbye Entire Series https://youtu.be/2OoEX0TE8iM https://youtu.be/M8uLNnlazb0 https://youtu.be/Ra26XJngK2A https://youtu.be/-46rD0ge8Oo https://youtu.be/8THOgTaE01A https://youtu.be/65ozxr9t5uA https://youtu.be/WKmSuUi8Ae0 https://youtu.be/ksuAivDFTJM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapters: 00:00:00 - Supporting the Person Without Enabling 00:03:29 - Enabling Behavior in Caregivers 00:06:58 - Coping with Chaos in Family Environments 00:10:35 - Enabling and Resistance 00:14:34 - Enabling Behavior and Attachment Trauma 00:18:14 - The Progression of Addiction and Enabling Behaviors 00:21:52 - The Role of the Enabler 00:25:27 - Enabling vs Helping 00:29:00 - Enabling Behavior and Cognitive Dissonance 00:32:26 - Enabling Behavior and Setting Boundaries 00:35:58 - Consequences of Enabling 00:39:25 - Characteristics of Codependency 00:42:53 - Providing Support and Setting Boundaries 00:46:07 - Fostering Hope in Recovery 00:49:35 - Self-talk and identifying important activities 00:53:02 - The Responsibility Dilemma 00:56:28 - Setting Boundaries and Expectations 00:59:44 - Encouraging and Supporting Recovery 01:03:04 - Family Dynamics and Boundaries 01:07:29 - Overcoming Financial Challenges Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I. Introduction to Stress and Its Impact Stress affects the body's hormonal and neurotransmitter systems. Chronic stress can lead to significant mental health challenges.​ II. Hormonal Responses to Stress Cortisol: Known as the "stress hormone," it increases in response to stress. Elevated cortisol levels can impair memory and cognitive functions. Adrenaline and Noradrenaline: These hormones prepare the body for "fight or flight" responses. Prolonged elevation can lead to anxiety and sleep disturbances. III. Neurotransmitter Alterations Serotonin: Chronic stress can decrease serotonin levels, contributing to depression. Dopamine: Stress can disrupt dopamine pathways, affecting motivation and pleasure. GABA: Reduced GABA activity under stress can lead to increased anxiety. IV. Mental Health Consequences Persistent stress is linked to disorders such as depression and anxiety. Stress can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions. V. Strategies for Mitigating Stress Effects Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation can lower stress hormone levels. Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps regulate neurotransmitter levels. Social Support: Engaging with supportive communities can buffer stress impacts. 00:00:00 Overview of the Autonomic Nervous System and Hormonal Functions 00:10:41 How to Boost Oxytocin for Connection 00:22:25 Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome 00:32:50 The Impact of Stress on Hormones and Sleep 00:43:35 Hormonal Changes During and After Breastfeeding 00:54:39 Understanding Glutamate and Anxiety 01:05:03 Nutrient Absorption Challenges in Digestive Disorders 01:15:17 Coping with Chronic Pain: Strategies and Emotional Impact 01:30:34 Understanding the Stress Response and Its Biological Mechanisms 01:41:01 Overcoming Arachnophobia with Systematic Desensitization 01:51:19 Chronic Stress and Neurotransmitter Imbalance 02:01:40 Understanding Autoimmune Issues and Inflammation 02:11:43 Understanding Cortisol Sensitivity and PTSD 02:22:34 Understanding PCOS and Stress Connection 02:33:43 Understanding Circadian Rhythms and Sleep 02:43:29 Coping with Stress and Evaluating Threats 02:53:18 Managing Stress Response for Healing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parental Alienation Defined Parental alienation is not abandonment or protecting a child from abuse; it is a form of psychological abuse. It involves a deliberate campaign of denigration, brainwashing, and manipulation of the child to reject the other parent. Alienating Behaviors Alienation occurs when one parent actively manipulates a child against the other parent, which can be unconscious or conscious. These behaviors involve brainwashing, manipulating, or lying to the child, often supported by family members or other influential figures in the child’s life. The Impact on Children Parental alienation disrupts children’s primary attachment bonds, causing deep psychological harm. Children may develop symptoms like Stockholm syndrome, where they begin to rationalize the alienating parent’s behavior and vilify the targeted parent. Alienation as an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) Parental alienation is considered psychological abuse, one of the categories of ACEs. It often coexists with other forms of trauma, such as witnessing abuse of the targeted parent, resulting in compounded trauma. Long-term Psychological and Physical Effects The chronic stress of alienation can lead to developmental delays, emotional dysregulation, autoimmune issues, and sleep disturbances. Alienated children often exhibit hypervigilance, impulsivity, and distorted thinking patterns, which affect their relationships and behavior in adulthood. Types of Alienating Parents Alienating parents may have their own psychological issues, including codependency, narcissistic tendencies, antisocial traits, or borderline personality disorder. They often manipulate children out of their fear of rejection, unresolved trauma, or a need to control. Interventions for Healing Interventions include creating a sense of safety for the child, addressing internalized negative beliefs, and helping the child develop secure attachments. Therapy should focus on grieving the loss of the parental relationship and addressing guilt from the manipulation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is Defensiveness? Defensiveness occurs when individuals feel emotionally or psychologically unsafe, leading them to put up barriers in communication. It can manifest as fight (verbal aggression) or flight (withdrawing and shutting down). Defensiveness often indicates past experiences of betrayal, disrespect, or invalidation that leave people on guard. Causes of Defensiveness Traumatic experiences or past emotional injuries. Triggers from discussing sensitive or difficult topics. Hypervigilance, where individuals expect others to hurt or criticize them, based on prior negative interactions. How Defensiveness Shows Up in Communication Aggressive responses like "Yes, but…", which aim to shut down feedback. Violation of boundaries, where defensive individuals invalidate others' thoughts and feelings to protect themselves. Resistance to feedback or unwillingness to listen and engage, often resulting in emotional shutdown. Impact of Defensiveness Breaks down communication, creating a barrier to resolving conflicts. Triggers others to respond defensively, escalating tension in personal or professional settings. Damages interpersonal relationships by conveying a lack of respect or empathy. Vulnerabilities That Lead to Defensiveness Physical conditions (pain, exhaustion) can increase irritability and defensiveness. Emotional states like anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed make individuals more prone to defensive reactions. Environmental triggers, such as being criticized in front of peers, can make people feel attacked or embarrassed. Strategies to Reduce Defensiveness Mindfulness: Stay grounded and recognize defensive feelings before reacting. Active Listening: Validate others’ perspectives and try to understand their point of view. Boundaries: Set clear emotional and interpersonal boundaries to ensure respectful communication. Reframing: Shift focus from taking feedback personally to understanding that criticism is about behaviors, not personal worth. Managing Defensiveness in Others Approach defensive individuals with empathy and curiosity. Encourage open and respectful dialogue by providing a safe space to express feelings without judgment. Avoid pushing for agreement on sensitive topics—sometimes, agreeing to disagree is the healthiest option. Breaking the Cycle of Defensiveness Focus on objective facts rather than emotions when discussing issues. Use "I" statements to express feelings without blaming others. Practice self-regulation techniques, like deep breathing or taking breaks during heated discussions, to prevent defensive escalation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Understanding Psychodynamics and Safety The presentation begins with a focus on psychodynamics, particularly how early experiences of trauma impact one’s sense of safety. Trauma can manifest in emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms that disrupt everyday life, relationships, and well-being. Effects of Trauma on Health Trauma increases inflammation, disrupts sleep, and contributes to autoimmune disorders. Chronic feelings of unsafety can result in a constant state of hypervigilance, impacting both physical and emotional health. Identifying Unsafe Feelings Individuals can feel unsafe in various domains, including physical, interpersonal, and emotional. Feelings of vulnerability can arise from numerous contexts, like work, home, or social settings. Emotional vulnerability includes situations where individuals fear rejection or criticism, impacting their ability to feel secure. The Role of the Inner Critic People often internalize negative messages from others, leading to an overactive inner critic. Helping clients examine these internalized messages and their origins can improve emotional resilience and self-compassion. Effects of ADHD and Other Disorders Conditions such as ADHD, when undiagnosed, can lead to feelings of rejection and criticism, further contributing to trauma. Mental health issues can both cause and result from trauma, creating a cycle of unsafety and helplessness. Physical and Cognitive Symptoms of Trauma Trauma can lead to physical symptoms like GI distress and increased pain sensitivity due to heightened nervous system activity. Cognitive symptoms include difficulties with concentration, decision-making, and distinguishing between past and present threats. Mindfulness and Safety Strategies Mindfulness and grounding techniques help individuals differentiate between past trauma and present safety. Creating a safe physical and emotional environment is essential for reducing trauma-related stress responses. The Importance of Boundaries Setting and maintaining healthy physical, emotional, and interpersonal boundaries is crucial for trauma survivors to feel safe. Recognizing and moderating triggers in various environments (work, home, relationships) helps reduce feelings of unsafety. Interpersonal Relationships Trauma can lead to difficulties in trusting others or feeling secure in relationships. People may develop coping mechanisms like clinginess or avoidance. Rebuilding trust in oneself and others is a key aspect of trauma recovery. Rewiring the Nervous System Healing from trauma involves retraining the nervous system to feel safe in previously triggering situations. Techniques like vagus nerve stimulation, slow breathing, and relaxation exercises can help reduce hypervigilance and anxiety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices