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How do you truly heal when life throws its toughest challenges your way? Welcome back to an incredibly heartfelt and insightful conversation with Gina Moffa, a dedicated grief and trauma-informed therapist based in New York City. Gina introduces her upcoming book, "Moving On Doesn't Mean Letting Go," and sheds light on her journey as a therapist, particularly the lessons learned from her clients and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her practice. Discover the profound connections Gina has made through social media and how these interactions have shaped her understanding of grief and trauma.

Gina and I unpack the raw and messy experiences of therapy - both from the perspective of the therapist and the client. We dive into the essence of authenticity in therapy, the pitfalls of the modern quick-fix mentality, and the distinct differences between therapy and coaching. Learn why therapy should be viewed as an ongoing maintenance process, much like regular medical check-ups. We also touch on the unique challenges of grieving during a pandemic and the importance of finding resources that genuinely resonate with one's personal journey through loss.

In our deep discussion on grief, we challenge conventional models and emphasize the need for individualized approaches. Gina offers her insights on the cyclical and unpredictable nature of grief, stressing the importance of planning and support systems. From understanding the nervous system's role in processing intense emotions to creating a safe therapeutic environment, this episode is packed with practical advice and compassionate wisdom. Don't miss Gina Moffa's comforting perspective on navigating loss, as we honor the past while finding strength and connection in the present.

Her book is out on paperback now! You can get it here.

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Ever wondered why you feel the need to constantly say yes, even when it drains you? On this special episode of "Finding Your Way Through Therapy," we celebrate our third anniversary and 153rd episode by not only reflecting on our incredible journey but also tackling the pervasive issue of people pleasing. Join us as we recount our milestones, from the sheer volume of original content produced to the thousands of downloads we've amassed.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to our recurring guests like Pat Rice, Jay Ball, Caitlin Dehey, and Stephanie Simpson, and highlight the transformative journey of Courtney Romanowski, who has evolved from an insightful guest into a beloved co-host.

Switching gears, we delve into the impact of people pleasing, dissecting the reasons behind this behavior and offering actionable advice for setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. This episode is more than a celebration; it's a comprehensive guide to personal growth and mental well-being. Engage with our vibrant community by liking, subscribing, and following us on your favorite platforms.

Remember, while our discussions are rich with insights, they are meant for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. Should you need professional help, don't hesitate to seek it, and utilize the 988 hotline if you’re in crisis.

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What if the key to transforming your mental health journey lies within the wisdom of experienced therapists? In the premiere episode of season nine of "Finding Your Way Through Therapy," we introduce the "Mental Men" – Andrew Kang, Pat Rice, Dr. Robert Cherney, and Dennis Sweeney – who have profoundly influenced my path in the therapy world. These esteemed professionals open up about their own journeys, from overcoming personal crises to adapting to the ever-changing landscape of mental health, setting the stage for an enriching discussion on mentorship, personal growth, and the importance of vulnerability in therapy.

Join us as Bob shares the deep sense of fulfillment he finds in helping those in need, while Andy reveals his transition from law to mental health, thanks to the invaluable mentorship he received. Pat's powerful recovery story highlights the significant impact of guidance from mentors like Dennis. Together, we explore the evolution of therapeutic practices, the challenges and triumphs of adapting to new formats like Zoom, and the profound lessons learned from both mentors and patients. This episode captures the essence of the therapeutic alliance and the continuous journey of self-improvement and higher consciousness.

Reflecting on the transformative power of therapy, we delve into the future of brain-based interventions like EMDR and the critical role of therapeutic relationships, particularly for trauma survivors. The conversation emphasizes the ongoing nature of mentorship and the reciprocal learning between mentors and mentees.

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Discover the transformative power of dance movement therapy in our latest episode featuring Courtney Romanowski, our new co-host, and Audrey Albert-King, a licensed mental health counselor and board-certified dance movement therapist. Audrey brings her extensive knowledge to the table, revealing how reconnecting with our bodies and understanding nonverbal communication can revolutionize mental health care. From processing emotions through movement to the benefits of somatic therapies, you'll gain a new perspective on therapeutic practices that go beyond traditional talk therapy.

Step into the world of therapeutic movement as we discuss integrating body-centered approaches within sessions. Learn about creating a "comfort space" for clients, where subtle gestures, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques invite a deeper connection with their bodies. Audrey's insights into co-regulation and the autonomic nervous system, informed by polyvagal theory, provide valuable tools for managing anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues. Understand how movement aids in emotional release and why it is a crucial component of holistic mental health care.

Audrey also shares her personal journey into the field, sparked by a serendipitous encounter with an art therapist that led her to embrace dance movement therapy. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and bodily awareness, offering a compelling narrative on how these principles can transform personal and professional relationships.

Find Courtney at this link: https://www.anewdirectiontherapy.com/

Find Audrey at this link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/audrey-albert-king-burlington-ma/433819

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Ever wondered how a carpet cleaner can become a stand-up comedian? Meet Brad Mastrangelo, who took a leap from carpet cleaning to comedy on a dare at Nick's Comedy Store in Boston. Brad's journey is filled with unexpected turns and lots of laughter, and in this episode, we delve into his roots in Chelsea, Massachusetts, his long marriage to his wife Stephanie, and their daughter Sophia, who is currently a junior in college. Brad’s dual career has allowed his family to travel and experience new places, all while bringing joy and humor to audiences everywhere.

We also uncover the therapeutic power of laughter, exploring how humor can break negative thought cycles and transform emotions. Brad shares personal anecdotes about his experiences making people laugh, even those initially resistant to it, and we both reflect on the profound impact a simple smile or laugh can have on someone’s well-being. This conversation highlights the importance of embracing all emotions for a more balanced and fulfilling life, and the unique role comedy can play in therapy sessions.

Lastly, we dive into the significance of comedy in understanding differences and fostering connections. From addressing cultural dynamics like Quebec's relationship with the rest of Canada to reflecting on the unity seen during 9/11 and COVID-19, Brad and I discuss how comedy can bridge divides and create shared experiences. We also touch on the critical shortage of therapists and the vital role of mental health support, emphasizing the need for more comedy clubs to bring much-needed levity to our lives. Join us for an episode filled with humor, insight, and heartfelt discussion on the importance of laughter and therapy in navigating life's challenges.

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What happens when a routine flight turns into a high-stakes confrontation at 30,000 feet? On this special episode of "Finding Your Way Through Therapy," I recount a terrifying in-flight incident from March 5th, 2023, where my family and I faced a passenger's aggressive outburst. Claiming to be "Baltazar," this individual threatened to take over the plane, creating fear and chaos among passengers. Hear the gripping story of how we, alongside brave passengers and flight attendants, managed to subdue the disruptive individual, all while balancing the safety of my children and the other passengers on board.

In the emotional aftermath, I reflect on how my crisis management skills helped me maintain composure and assist others, despite the airline's lacking security measures and insufficient follow-up. This experience brought to light the personal conflict and shame I felt, torn between protecting my family and aiding in the restraint of the aggressive passenger. Through this ordeal, I learned the importance of open communication in preventing acute stress from escalating into more severe issues. Listen in as I share insights on managing emotions and the vital need to seek professional help for mental health and substance abuse challenges, reminding us all that even therapists face real-life fears and vulnerabilities.

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What happens when the champions of our safety need rescuing? Join us for a profound discussion with Dr. Hayden Duggan, founder of OnSite, as we dissect the mental health challenges faced by first responders. This episode promises to illuminate the critical need for specialized therapy and trauma recovery tailored to those who risk their lives daily. Dr. Duggan shares compelling anecdotes and expert insights into why seeking mental health support is a courageous and necessary step, not a career-ending move.

We delve into the alarming rates of suicides among police officers and firefighters, emphasizing that traditional therapeutic approaches often fall short for these heroes. Dr. Duggan and I explore practical solutions like Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) courses and the integration of mental health providers within first responder communities. This episode underscores the emotional toll of the job and the importance of peer support systems in managing stress and trauma.

Discover how wellness modalities like yoga, Pilates, and acupuncture play a vital role in the mental and physical recovery of first responders. We highlight impactful trauma recovery programs and stress the significance of timely mental health interventions. Finally, we express our heartfelt gratitude to military personnel and firefighters for their unwavering service.

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