Explore every episode of the podcast The Thoughtful Counselor

Occupational therapist Kristi Harris joins Margaret Lamar to explore how understanding a child's sensory system can transform the way counselors, parents, and educators respond to challenging behaviors. Together they discuss the "hidden senses" of proprioception, vestibular processing, and interoception, and why so many behaviors that appear oppositional are actually signs of dysregulation or sensory overwhelm. Kristi offers practical guidance for recognizing when occupational therapy may be an appropriate referral and highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration between counselors and occupational therapists. Whether you work with children in schools, private practice, or community settings, this conversation offers a fresh lens for understanding behavior through the body.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this heartfelt episode, Desa Karye Daniel sits down with Holly Truhlar to explore the profound themes of grief, liberation, rupture, and repair through the lens of community care. Together, they delve into personal experiences of how grief has manifested in their lives, sharing intimate stories and reflections. The conversation also touches on the concept of system collapse and Holly's unique passion for mules, weaving together insights that resonate deeply with listeners. Join them for an enlightening discussion that encourages healing and connection in challenging times.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode we learn about the first Mandarin language speaking counseling certification program in CACREP accredited counseling program and explore how the program was developed. The guests share their lived experiences as Mandarin speaking professional counselors and as instructors in the certification program.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this enlightening episode, host Dr. Dèsa Karye Daniel engages with Drs. Karen Suyemoto and Diane Jung Gallo from Psychologists for Justice in Palestine (PJP) to discuss the organization's mission and goals. They explore the challenges and victories of social justice action work, emphasizing the importance of their efforts in the current socio-political climate. The conversation delves into strategies for counteracting fatigue in advocacy and highlights what excites the guests about future initiatives. This episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of psychology and social justice, making it a must-listen for those interested in the ongoing fight for justice in Palestine.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Margaret Lamar talks with counselor educator, researcher, and entrepreneur Dr. Carlos Castaneda about the evolving role of artificial intelligence in counseling and counselor education. They explore how AI can support clients between sessions, enhance counselor training through simulations, and reduce administrative burden while maintaining ethical, human-centered care. The conversation highlights both the opportunities and challenges of AI, emphasizing the importance of cultural responsiveness, bias mitigation, and keeping counselors firmly "in the loop."

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Dr. Dena Abbot to discuss her newest edited work: A Guide to Connection and Intimacy after Addiction and Trauma. Dena and contributing host Theo Burnes discuss the unique barriers for this frequently maligned and stigmatized demographic. Topics addressed include tips and strategies for counselors working with people about their desires and sexual pleasure. They also speak about writing and publication process for authors interested in mental health topics.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, we explore the growing impact of integrated behavioral healthcare and why embedding mental health counseling into primary care settings leads to better outcomes for clients, providers, and health systems. Our guest, Dr. Nic Schmoyer-Edmiston discusses how integrated models improve access, reduce waitlists, support health equity, and ease provider burnout, while normalizing mental health as a core part of overall wellness.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dr. Rakesh Maurya shares research based practice guidance on how counselor educators can successfully utilize AI in client simulation training for students. 

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Kenneth Winfrey meets with Desa Karye Daniel to discuss his journey with mental health and the evolution of their shared clinical practice. He discusses the foundational origins of Umjoa, how remaining authentic fueled his work, and how curiosity became a core part of building community. They end by talking about how community-centered work can create spaces where everyone feels honored and valued.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Explore what it meant for Dr. Kara Carnes-Holt to step into the role of Department Chair and her leadership journey. How does one transition from peer to leader while maintaining an identity rooted in advocacy and empathy?

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of academic leadership within counseling programs. We explore the shift from the classroom to leadership development. Join us to understand what your potential leadership path can be!

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, we discuss client self diagnosis with Dr. Taylor Falardeau. Taylor shares how and why clients might engage in this process, and what this might mean for the counseling relationship. The focus is on counselor skills, and how the client's role as expert and building a strong counseling relationship are keys to success.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dr. Greg Hatchett shares findings from their research on counselor educator faculty experiences. These findings include where counselor education and supervision doctoral graduates find full time faculty employment, differences in research publications, and details on the kinds of counselor education programs. Dr. Hatchett shares their thoughts on how loan cap limits may impact doctoral counselor education and supervision enrollment and offers guidance to prospective counselor education and supervision students.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Dr. Vanessa Carlisle to discuss their newest co-authored work, Awaken Your Sexuality: A Guide to Connection and Intimacy after Addiction and Trauma. Vanessa and contributing host Dr. Theo Burnes discuss the unique barriers for women and nonbinary people in recovery as they examine their sexualities. Topics addressed include tips and strategies for counselors working with people in recovery about their desires and sexual pleasure. Drs. Carlisle and Burnes also speak about the writing and publication process for authors interested in mental health topics.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Margaret Lamar and Laura Rea dive into some of their research on Generation Z in classroom and counseling spaces. Learn some of the unique experiences that have shaped the development of our Gen Z students and clients, along with empathic and accessible ways of working with them.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dr. Roberto L. Abreu met with Dr. Desa Karye Daniel to discuss how his understanding of LGBTQ experiences within Latinx communities has evolved through his lived experiences. They reflected on how their research has influenced their perspectives on social justice issues, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices in advocating for marginalized groups. The conversation also highlighted the delicate balance between challenging systems of oppression and providing support to their communities and students. They shared strategies for maintaining this balance, such as engaging in open dialogue and fostering inclusive environments in educational settings. Ultimately, their discussion underscored the significance of solidarity and allyship within and beyond the Latinx and LGBTQ communities in the pursuit of social justice.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Joined by Drs. Nathaniel Brown, Darius Green, and Frank Gorritz, the panel explores the implications of the civil rights complaint, boundaries of academic freedom, and whether CACREP standards are veering away from neutrality in counselor training. This conversation will challenge assumptions and invite deeper reflection on the future of counselor education.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode Dr. Maddie Clark sits down with Dr. Lena Salpietro to discuss her research regarding remediation in counseling. They discuss best practices, concerns, and how counselor educators and students can best engage with an often difficult subject, gatekeeping and remediation.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Dr. Jeanne Stanley to discuss the admissions process for graduate programs in counseling. Jeanne and contributing host Dr. Theo Burnes discuss tips and strategies for master's-level counselors considering doctoral programs and undergraduate students contemplating graduate programs. Topics addressed include tips and strategies for students and mentors, advice for early career faculty who are engaging in the admissions process for the first time, the role of AI in the admissions process, and how to know when a graduate program is right for you.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Two counselor educators, professional counselors, and researchers discuss what decolonization is and is not in counselor education. Drs. Smith-Yliniemi and Malott describe what motivates them to continue learning about ways to infuse decolonizing principles in their educational and clinical work. Both share  practical examples and hopes for the future of decolonized practice.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dèsa meets with Sutton King and Ariel Richer, the co-founders of the Urban Indigenous Collective, to delve into the intersection of collective healing and natural medicine, exploring how culturally tailored health services can empower Indigenous communities. Sutton and Ariel share their insights on reclaiming space for urban Indigenous peoples, fostering kinship, community-based participatory research, and utilizing Indigenous knowledge systems to create pathways for wellness.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

This unstructured conversation explores the intentional shift towards ourselves. In environments and systems that reward achievement, Drs. Tapia and Spears examine how ongoing dynamic self-reflection attends to ourselves while simultaneously modeling wellness to others.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode we discuss the challenges that international students and international scholars face in the current political environment, with Drs. Ching-Chen Chen and Jungnam Kim. From challenging and unclear immigration and visa policies, to issues obtaining licensure, to the overall fear that uncertainty brings, counselors and counselor educators are encouraged to engage with the population with empathy and understanding.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Kenneth Edwards to discuss how professional counselors can engage in organizational consulting. Kenneth and contributing host Theo Burnes discuss the multiple ways that counselors can use their skills to facilitate and empower organizational change. Topics addressed include advocacy efforts within professional organizations in counseling, engaging in organizational counseling, and mentoring for students and early career professionals who are interested in professional consultation.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

The co creators of the Adoptee Consciousness Model walk the listener through the process of adoptee awareness of systematic issues in adoption that impact their identity and mental health outcomes. They share what mental health counselors and practitioners need to know to support adoptee clients.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Desa speaks with scholar-activist Dr. Autumn Asher BlackDeer on her experiences within higher education as she moved into her decolonial research. They talk about their experiences finding a balance between academic work with the community heart work that refills them. The end by talking about how grief has continued to inform them now and into the future.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this conversation, Donna Sheperis discusses the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in counseling practice. Dr. Sheperis highlights how counselors are using AI and emphasizes the rapid adoption of AI compared to past technological shifts. She shares the opportunities and challenges AI presents for clinicians, educators, and counselors-in-training.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

This crucial conversation unpacks the findings of a Delphi study that gathered insights from EFT experts on how to make the model more culturally responsive to LGBTQ+ clients. Discover why traditional relationship literature often falls short and how this research offers practical guidelines for therapists working with same-sex and same-gender couples across all three stages of EFT.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode Maddie discusses building a private practice with Leah Reed-Dailey, co-owner of the Mental Health Collaborative in Toledo, Ohio. Leah started her private practice with a focus on taking great care of clients and the clinicians who work there in a continuum of care environment. This episode will help listeners understand the process of starting a private practice.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode. Dr. Hargons speaks about her new book, Good Sex, as well as her journey in the field of professional counseling and counseling sexology.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode, visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dr. Amy Ritterbusch, associate professor of social welfare at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, shares her experiences with global participatory action research in Colombian and Uganda and describes her personal journal of liberation as an international Colombian adopted person. She also offers recommendations for collective and individual wellness in the midst of activism.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Thelamour discusses the intricate journey of acculturation among Black immigrant adolescents and emerging adults. She brings a multicultural lens to her research, focusing on the experiences of Black immigrants from African and Caribbean countries as they navigate their adjustment to Black American culture. Through engaging discussion, listeners will gain insights into how cultural dynamics shape the lives of immigrants and students of color. This thoughtful conversation considers consequences of the 2025 immigration changes occurring within the United States. Cultural Humility implications for students, clinical counselors, counselor educators, and school counselors are discussed. 

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Drs. Elliott and Murray discuss their program for training counselors to work in rural areas. They share the challenges they have faced and talk about how educators and supervisors can approach readying students to work in rural communities. 

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

This episode explores Dr. Stacey Litam's newly released book Patterns that Remain: A Guide to Healing for Asian Children of Immigrants. Drs. Tapia and Litam navigate the impact of this book and the chapters that were so thoughtfully written. Join us for the laughs and tears that came from reflecting on the Patterns that Remain.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode we discuss the evolving needs of the trans and gender expansive community and what counselors can do to show up for this marginalized population. Dr. Clark Ausloos joins the podcast to discuss the population's needs, community building, and how counselors can show up as social justice advocates inside and outside of their offices. Listeners will learn concrete actions they can begin today to support and protect trans and gender expansive people.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, The Importance of Mentorship in Counseling, we explore how meaningful mentorship relationships shape personal and professional growth in the counseling field. Join us as we discuss the benefits of mentorship for both counselors-in-training and seasoned professionals, including skill development, navigating challenges, and fostering inclusivity. Whether you're a mentee seeking guidance or a mentor hoping to inspire, this episode offers actionable insights to enrich your counseling journey.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Kyrstin shares her professional experience working with survivors of narcissistic abuse. We discuss clinical signs that a client is in a relationship with a narcissist, strategies for empowering victims and survivors, and the importance of clinician self-awareness and self-care.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Abiola shares how she prioritizes breaking down the system to pave the way for others. Abiola and Dèsa discuss how Disturbing Inequity continues to break dominant narratives through social media. Abiola chats about her experiences overcoming racism and hate while speaking about her personal experiences with mental health.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Rachael Estes and Dr. Jessica Tyler dive into how ancient Stoic principles can be applied to modern counseling supervision, helping counselors build resilience in the face of challenges. They explore practical strategies for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and navigating stress, offering listeners actionable tools to strengthen their professional and personal well-being. Whether you're a counselor, supervisor, or educator, this episode can inspire you to cultivate a more balanced and empowered approach to your practice. Join us for an insightful conversation on thriving in the counseling profession through the wisdom of Stoicism.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, we talk about Fatmisia, a term meaning hatred of fatness. Gianna discusses how anti-fatness, diet culture, and fatmisia impacts our work and our lives. She provides information about the influence of capitalism and racism on the prevalence of anti-fatness and shares how she uses a disability justice lens and Bowen/Narrative interventions to work with clients.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Tiffanie Sutherlin discusses the pervasive issue of academic gaslighting, particularly as it affects BIPOC counselor educators. She explores the subtle and overt ways this phenomenon manifests in academic environments and its impact on professional identity and mental health. Listeners will gain insights into the unique challenges faced by BIPOC educators and discover strategies to combat these harmful dynamics.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Join Dr. Mickey White in a compelling conversation with Dr. Arien Muzacz, a researcher, educator, and clinician who specializes in working with kinky clients. In this episode, Dr. Muzacz shares her personal journey into the field and the ways in which counselors can better support and advocate for clients who practice consensual kink or asymmetry (CKA) in their relationships.  

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dr. Darius Green speaks with Dr. Dèsa Daniel about this work centering an abolition framework in his teaching, research, and clinical work. They discuss confidentiality, ethics, and the power of being in community with each other. Finally the end with talking about abolition as an action tied directly to social justice.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Drs. Jessica Tyler and Simona Niculaes explore the complex emotional journey of individuals recovering from partner betrayal, especially in the context of sexual addiction. Drawing from clinical experience and key findings of a qualitative study, this episode examines common emotional and psychological challenges faced by partner survivors and the factors that facilitate post-traumatic growth and resilience. Listeners will gain insights into practical strategies that counselors can use to support and guide betrayed partners toward healing and growth.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Alisha Guthery talks about her work as a somatic practitioner. She describes somatic practice in counseling, how counselors can begin to include somatic approaches in their work, and how to grow as a somatic practitioner. We talk about client progress, other applications for somatic approaches, and how it can impact the personal life of the counselor.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Tune in to this insightful episode as Dr. Jeff Cline explores the crucial role of integrating spirituality and religion in counseling. Offering actionable insights, Dr. Cline navigates the delicate balance between incorporating these facets into therapy while respecting the autonomy of the client. Gain practical wisdom on fostering a therapeutic environment that honors diverse belief systems without imposing the therapist's personal convictions.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Kashunda McGriff talks about Relational Cultural Theory. RCT is a theory rooted in feminist and social justice that recognizes how people grow in and through connection. Dr. McGriff shares her experience as a counselor and professor using RCT as a conceptual framework for helping others.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Mickey speaks with Dr. Jordan B. Westcott about her work and research on counseling strategies and cultural considerations with older LGBTQ+ adults. We take a look at how ageist, heterosexist, and cissexist stereotypes create barriers for older LGBTQ+ adults accessing mental healthcare, and ways that providers can avoid and challenge common misconceptions about what it means to age as an LGBTQ+ person today.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dèsa speaks with Dr. Tameeka L. Hunter about their 2020 article on Queering Disabilities. They do a deep dive into how counselors can better support clients experiencing seen and unseen disabilities. Dr. Hunter highlights the importance of leaning into uncomfortable moments by increasing our education and awareness to improve our cultural curiosity about disability work. 

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler talks with Dr. Andrew Finch, delving into the complexities of substance recovery for youth. They discuss the unique challenges young people face with substance use and highlight the shortcomings of support services during recovery. Dr. Finch sheds light on the concept of recovery high schools and advocacy efforts that have spurred their growth, offering valuable insights for counselors to enhance their support for young individuals and emerging adults navigating the path to recovery.

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dominique S. Hammonds and Lucy L. Purgason describe holistic admissions in counselor education; a process that allows programs to determine if applicants have the capacity to be practitioners, not just successfully engage graduate study, which traditional admissions typically accomplishes. They walk us through the process of faculty establishing what a good counselor in their community looks like to how to structure interviews. 

For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast 

The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing
& Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu