Shows
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceOverexcitable, Not BrokenContent note: This episode includes discussion of suicide, self-mutilation, psychiatric institutionalization, and mental illness in historical and personal contexts. In episode 9, Chris and Marni dive into the theory of positive disintegration (TPD), developed by Polish psychiatrist Kazimierz Dąbrowski. Chris shares the theory’s origins—rooted in Dąbrowski’s own lived experience of intensity and suffering, his clinical work with children who were struggling, and his revolutionary insight that inner conflict, heightened sensitivity, and resistance to conformity could serve as engines of personality development rather than signs of pathology.They explore overexcitabilities—the five types of heightened...
2026-02-241h 02
Positive DisintegrationFlourishing with AuDHD and PDAIn episode 82, Chris and Emma talk with Mattia Maurée about the intersection of ADHD, autism, and PDA—the Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. Mattia is an AuDHD coach and host of the ADHD Flourishing podcast. We discuss what it actually means to flourish rather than just cope or survive, why the pathology paradigm failed so many of us, and how positive disintegration offers a different lens for understanding intense neurodivergent experiences.Mattia shares their journey from misdiagnosis to self-understanding, the physical reality of nervous system shutdown, and why “do less” might be the most radical advice for neurodi...
2026-01-131h 09
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceMentoring PDAers With Trust and CuriosityIn episode 8, Marni and Chris talked with Dr. Amy Clark, whose doctoral research uncovered why mentoring is uniquely powerful for PDA learners. Amy explains what real mentoring looks like: attunement, autonomy, flexibility, and deep curiosity. We discuss why traditional educational models fail PDA kids, how burnout happens, why praise can backfire, and how families can bring mentoring principles into everyday life even without access to formal mentors.Amy also shares case studies from her research, including how one PDA student moved from total shutdown to thriving through a slow, relational, interest-based process.We close with...
2025-12-0950 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceCreative ResistanceIn episode 7, Marni and Chris talked with Mattia Maurée, an AuDHD coach and host of the AuDHD Flourishing podcast. We explore the intersection of PDA, existential awareness, and the journey toward honoring our body’s wisdom.Mattia shares their personal journey from receiving diagnoses of complex PTSD and bipolar disorder as a young person to later discovering autism, ADHD, and PDA—reframings that made sense of a lifetime of experiences. We learn how PDA manifested in Mattia’s childhood and how it continues to show up in adulthood, particularly in resisting even self-generated demands.This co...
2025-10-0749 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceTraveling with PDAIn episode 6, Chris and Marni talk with Becca Campbell, an ADHD PDAer raising an ADHD PDAer and the founder of Matching Sweaters Travel Company. We discuss the unique challenges and insights that come with travel as a PDA adult and parent. Travel often means facing layers of uncertainty, shifting routines, and unexpected demands — all of which can spark resistance and anxiety.Together, we explore:* Why new places and disrupted routines intensify PDA responses* Strategies for navigating travel with kids who have a pervasive drive for autonomy* The tension between wa...
2025-09-0251 min
cosmic cheer squadfrom open waterIn episode 9 of cosmic cheer squad, we follow up on chris's “swimming with sharks” piece. bee and chris dive deeper into the harmful dynamics that can emerge in professional communities, especially those that claim to prioritize growth and transformation. We talk about developing the discernment to recognize toxic patterns and the courage to extract ourselves when necessary.Together, we explore:* Recognizing when a system has become corrosive to one’s spirit* The grief and relief of choosing to step away* How humor, friendship, and irreverence help keep us afloat* Buildi...
2025-08-2742 min
The Blocked PodcastAccepting CriticismIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris take on another listener requested topic and discuss accepting criticism without taking it personally. They try to show a deeper understanding of what Criticism is and where it comes from and how can we engage with it from our partners in a way that tries to understand as opposed to responding with defensiveness. Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention....
2025-08-1531 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceLiving on Our Own TermsIn episode 5, Marni and Chris talked with Caitlin Hughes, a multi-exceptional (Autistic, ADHD, Gifted) Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and founder of Cathartic Collaborations, a neurodivergent-affirming private practice in Brisbane, Australia.We explore what it really means to live with a pervasive drive for autonomy as an adult. We talk about how privilege, safety, and life design shape the PDA experience, how early coping strategies evolve over time, and why autonomy-supportive environments matter for everyone. With insights drawn from both lived experience and professional practice, we unpack the nuances often missed in child-focused PDA conversations and offer...
2025-08-1259 minThe Blocked PodcastForgiving With a Broken HeartIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris take on another listener requested topic and discuss the forgiveness. What it is and what it is not, and how difficult it is. No one can hurt you like the one you are closest to. What do you do when it seems like you are stuck between wanting to forgive and feeling like you aren’t able to. Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or...
2025-08-0128 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceAll About Functioning LabelsIn episode 4 of PDA: Resistance and Resilience, Marni and Chris were joined by Katy Higgins Lee, MFT, a multiply neurodivergent therapist and parent from Santa Rose, California. Together, we dive into the complex terrain of functioning labels, exploring how terms like “high-functioning” and even PDA itself can be misused in ways that reduce human complexity and perpetuate ableist assumptions. The conversation weaves through lived experiences, therapeutic insights, and parenting reflections while highlighting how labels often obscure more than they clarify.Key themes include:* Why functioning labels are outdated and harmful* How gift...
2025-07-2955 min
Positive DisintegrationPolyvagal Pathways to Connection: Part 2In episode 78, we continued our rich and engaging conversation with Autum Romano, an educator, bodyworker, and author from Colorado Springs, CO. This is the second in a two-part conversation exploring polyvagal theory and its relevance to personality development, healing, and human connection.We deepen our exploration of polyvagal theory and its connections with developmental experience, neurodivergence, and positive disintegration.Together, we unpack:* How neuroception and energetic sensitivity shape relational dynamics* The intersection of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), trauma, and cues of safety* How overexcitabilities can become dynamisms that help...
2025-07-1757 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceNavigating the PDA JourneyWelcome to Episode 3 of PDA: Resistance and Resilience, recorded in Skokie, Illinois, following the PDA North America Conference. In this episode, Marni and Chris reflect on their time at the event—what it was like to attend as participants rather than presenters, the range of experiences among PDA parents and adults, and the importance of building community across stages of life and development.From honoring nervous system needs and exploring adult PDA identity to parenting struggles, unschooling, and reframing success outside conventional norms, this conversation is rich with lived insight and emotional honesty. Chris shares about using th...
2025-07-1548 min
cosmic cheer squadlove, loss, and the power of showing upIn episode 6 of cosmic cheer squad, chris and bee sit together in Clark, Colorado—surrounded by rivers, mountains, and deep emotion—to reflect on the recent celebration of life for Seph Johnson. Seph was a gifted, queer, nonbinary young person whose insight, imagination, and honesty touched many lives. They recorded Episode 24 of Positive Disintegration with Chris and Emma, and their passing at age 21 has left a profound impact.This episode is a raw and reverent meditation on love, grief, place, and paradox. Chris and Bee honor Seph’s legacy, share stories from the ceremony, and grapple with what i...
2025-07-0841 minThe Blocked PodcastToxic Masculinity Part 2In this episode Carolyn and Chris revisit a recent episode. In the last episode on Toxic Masculinity, it may have come across as defending masculinity and describing what toxic masculinity is not. In this episode, Carolyn and Chris wanted to explore more about what women experience and give our audience a different perspective to contrast the last episode. Enjoy!Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention....
2025-06-2734 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceWhat Is PDA, Really?In episode 2, Marni and Chris dive into the question, What is PDA?—not just how it’s defined by others, but how it feels in our bodies and shows up across our lives. We explore how definitions grounded in childhood behaviors can fall short when you're trying to understand yourself as an adult—and why lived experience should be at the center of the conversation.Together, we unpack:* How PDA often first enters our lives through parenting or professional roles, and how recognition of ourselves comes later* The tension between knowing we fit the pr...
2025-06-2458 min
PDA: Resistance and ResilienceA Drive for AutonomyIn episode 1 of PDA: Resistance and Resilience, co-hosts Marni Kammersell and Chris Wells sit down for an unscripted, personal conversation about Pathological Demand Avoidance as a lived experience.Together, we explore what it means to question the dominant narratives around PDA, especially as adults who have spent a lifetime resisting internal and external demands. This episode highlights what is often missing in the public discourse: a diversity of adult perspectives, the complexity of experience, and the possibility of reframing PDA as something other than a pathology.Topics include:* Why “resistance to compulsion” feels more...
2025-06-1741 minThe Blocked PodcastFight or Flight and Responding vs ReactingIn this episode Carolyn and Chris discuss fight or flight reactions in relationship in a listener requested episode. Listeners wanted to know how to overcome our fight or flight reactions and how to respond and not react. They explore recognizing our fear and what we actually need in response to navigate these situations? Apologies in advance as there was an audio issue with the microphones during recording, but real is real. Enjoy.Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not...
2025-06-0630 min
cosmic cheer squaddevotion, not busynessWhat matters more—the first word or the last? A curious question from Bee’s son kicks off this reflective and spirited episode about family dynamics, creative immersion, and the heart of what makes Cosmic Cheer Squad... cosmic.Chris and Bee explore what it means to live a life of devotion instead of busyness—especially when you're raising kids, writing a major scholarly paper, recovering from past avoidance patterns, or learning to show up imperfectly. Along the way, they revisit the joy of co-creation, the challenge of generational tech gaps, and what it means to build something sacred...
2025-06-0336 min
cosmic cheer squadthis is cosmic cheer squadWelcome to the first-ever episode of cosmic cheer squad!We (Chris and Bee) kick things off by introducing ourselves and the magnetic, messy, beautiful energy that brought this podcast into being. In this episode, we share what led us to each other, how we’ve navigated neurodivergence, burnout, and identity over the years—and why we’re building this space for radical honesty, soft rebellion, and cosmic-level care.The hosts of cosmic cheer squad:Bee Mayhew (she/they)Anarchist housewife, lyrical wild card, and neurodivergent shapeshifter. Fiercely tender, cosmically grounded, and here to say th...
2025-04-2154 minThe Blocked PodcastToxic MasculinityIn this episode, Chris and Carolyn take on a listener request and talk about toxic masculinity. What is it, what is it not? How does this show up as a block to connection in relationship. It is a term that is polarizing to many people. Is there an opportunity to see this as an opportunity to be curious about your partner and find connection if this comes up in your relationship?Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant...
2025-04-0436 minThe Blocked PodcastValentine's DayIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris talk about Valentines Day. It can be a polarizing holiday for many different reasons. Enjoy a fun episode, talking about the holiday and how for some it can be a block to connection with the one you care about most. The hosts encourage curiosity about your partner’s previous experiences with the holiday and how something that may have been painful for them in the past can be turned into an opportunity to connect.Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed he...
2025-02-1426 minThe Blocked PodcastInterview Series - Melana CarbaryIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris interview Melana Carbary. The interviews in this series are intended to provide some new perspectives on attachment in the real world. Melana is a financial planner focusing her practice on women’s needs. She gives a fresh perspective on emotion and attachment when it comes to finances.
Guest Links:
https://burningriverag.com/
https://enlightenher.com/
http://divorcenavigator.com/
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are fo...
2025-01-3135 min
Almost Above AverageS2E7 Chris Wells
This conversation explores the personal journey of the speaker, touching on themes of recovery from alcoholism, the impact of trauma, and the importance of fitness and nutrition in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The speaker shares humorous anecdotes from their work life, discusses their fitness philosophy, and delves into their past experiences with trauma and addiction, ultimately highlighting the power of storytelling in recovery. In this conversation, Chris Wells shares his profound journey from a troubled childhood marked by trauma and adoption to finding faith and purpose in life. He discusses the challenges of reconnecting with family, the guilt of...
2025-01-2758 minThe Blocked PodcastInterview Series - Shannon JonesIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris begin the first of three interviews to get different perspectives on encountering emotion and attachment in daily life. Shannon Jones joins the show to give the perspective of a family law attorney. They explore the emotions she encounters in her office and how she navigates those emotions and attachment.
Guest Links:
https://www.shannonjoneslaw.com/
843-720-3100
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not...
2025-01-2436 minThe Blocked PodcastWhat is Your Therapist Thinking?In this episode, Carolyn and Chris discuss their experience with being therapists. They talk about what they like and dislike as therapist and let you in a little to what your therapist may be thinking.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Show Hosts:
Chris Wells: chris@aohcc.com
Carolyn Wenner: carolynwenner3@gmail.com
...
2025-01-1740 min
Positive DisintegrationSuicide, Stigma, and Support, Part 2*Content Warning: This episode contains a discussion about suicide, which may be distressing to some listeners. Click here for resources.In episode 71, Chris and Emma continue the conversation with Dr. Stacey Freedenthal, a suicidologist, therapist, author, and professor at the University of Denver. In this second installment, we delve deeper into the complexities of suicidality, exploring chronic suicidal thoughts and the stigma surrounding suicide. We talk more about what to say and what not to say to someone who is suicidal and how to support those in emotional pain. Stacey shares valuable insights...
2025-01-1538 minThe Blocked PodcastAffair RecoveryIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris discuss recovering from an affair. They look at what to expect from the offending and offended partner and how that shows up in therapy. This is a difficult wounding that many couples are not able to recover from even with the assistance of a therapist. This episode, hopefully, if both partners are invested in repair, can create curiosity about what recovery could look like.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to...
2025-01-0349 minThe Blocked PodcastHolidaysIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris discuss common blocks for couples during the holidays. The holiday season for some is their favorite time of year, for some, it is the most feared time of year. Perhaps you or your partner have some raw spots around the holidays. What would it be like to get curious about those and work to head off some potentially difficult situations? Maybe, you can learn how to show up for your partner in ways you didn’t know they needed you to.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for pr...
2024-12-1326 minThe Blocked PodcastWounded HealersIn this episode Carolyn and Chris discuss the concept of wounded healers. They go more in depth on how their own wounds and experience with attachment led them to become therapist. We all carry our own wounds and we try to apply what we learn from them the best we can, but we don’t always get it right. Even your therapist.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical at...
2024-11-2936 min
Positive DisintegrationOverexcitabilities and Dąbrowski's TheoryIn episode 68, Chris and Emma debriefed about Chris’s session from NAGC 2023 titled “Overexcitabilities and Dąbrowski’s Theory: Correcting the Course in Gifted Education.” We covered the five common myths or misunderstandings about the theory of positive disintegration that were addressed in the presentation. We’ve been sitting on this episode because we didn’t have time to get it out right after last year's conference. Michael’s episode was the priority following NAGC 2023 since his 90th birthday was approaching. We were also concerned that we had shared so many posts about NAGC in the lead-up to the conferen...
2024-11-2058 minThe Blocked PodcastEFT and Gottman Part 2, Criticism and ContemptIn this episode Carolyn and Chris discuss another popular couples therapy approach the Gottman Method. Gottman outlines 4 horseman of the apocalypse that show up in couples relationships that spell disaster for the relationship. Carolyn and Chris break these down and look at what Gottman says and what EFT would say about these 4 horseman that are behaviors that show up in a relationship. This episode focuses on two of the horseman, criticism and contempt.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are...
2024-11-1544 minThe Blocked PodcastEFT and Gottman Part 1, Defensiveness and StonewallingIn this episode Carolyn and Chris discuss another popular couples therapy approach the Gottman Method. Gottman outlines 4 horseman of the apocalypse that show up in couples relationships that spell disaster for the relationship. Carolyn and Chris break these down and look at what Gottman says and what EFT would say about these 4 horseman that are behaviors that show up in a relationship. This episode focuses on two of the horseman, defensiveness and stonewalling.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are...
2024-11-0142 min
Positive DisintegrationReflections on Giftedness and Dąbrowski's Theory, Part 2In episode 65, Chris and Emma continue their two-part conversation with Dr. Linda Silverman. Linda shares her insights on asynchronous development, emphasizing the importance of understanding IQ scores as minimal estimates and not definitive indicators of a person's potential. Linda also reflects on her involvement with the Dabrowski Congress and the evolution of the giftedness community. She recounts her role in developing the concept of asynchronous development with the Columbus Group and creating Advanced Development Journal, a unique publication dedicated to adult giftedness. Chris and Emma express their gratitude for Linda’s decades of work and sh...
2024-10-2143 minThe Blocked PodcastBlocks to Owning Your Action TendencyIn this Episode, Carolyn and Chris discuss when it may be difficult for you or your partner to take responsibility for their behavior in the negative cycle. They look at the possible reasons this may show up and how it prevents opportunities to connect and overcome your cycle.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Show Hosts:
Chris Wells: chris@aohcc...
2024-10-1834 min
Positive DisintegrationReflections on Giftedness and Dąbrowski's Theory, Part 1In episode 64, Chris and Emma talked with Dr. Linda Silverman, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist in Westminster, Colorado. Linda founded and directs the Institute for the Study of Advanced Development (ISAD) and its subsidiary, Gifted Development Center. This episode is Part 1 of a two-part series with Dr. Silverman. The first conversation explores Linda's discovery of Dabrowski's theory in 1979 and her role in establishing the Dabrowski Study Group with Dr. Frank Falk at the University of Denver. Listeners will also gain insights into the complexities of giftedness, including the controversial issue of IQ testing. Linda reflects on...
2024-10-1455 minThe Blocked PodcastNot In Our ControlIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris talk about blocks to connection that are seemingly out of your control. How do you respond with something in your relationship is creating distance and disconnection but you have little to now power to change it.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Show Hosts:
Chris Wells: chris@aohcc.com
Carolyn Wenner: carolynwenner3...
2024-10-0431 minThe Blocked PodcastSexual SecretsWhy do we keep secrets? Especially those that have to do with our sexuality or sexual expression? This is our first episode that may not be friendly for the car ride with your kids. We see it so often in our therapy offices, that one or both partners struggle with sexual secrets. We often justify the secret because it protects our partner, but are we really protecting ourselves from expected rejection. A difficult topic to be curious about for sure, and one that you may need the help of a therapist to flush out.
...
2024-08-2330 minThe Blocked Podcast"I Need to Work on Myself First"In this episode, Carolyn and Chris address the common myth of “I need to work on myself” before I can do couples counseling. We hear this so often! While it is true that we all have our own issues that likely need to be worked out in therapy. Does that exclude us in benefiting from couples counseling before that happens? Chris and Carolyn try to bring some light to this and maybe bring some curiosity to this being a block for you to pursue couples therapy.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purp...
2024-08-1621 minThe Blocked PodcastWhat We DoIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris return from a summer break to talk about what they do as therapists. Listen to learn more about what process they use for couples therapy in their offices as well as the workshops they offer and the opportunity to do an intensive with Carolyn. The many options for working on your relationship can sometimes be overwhelming or intimidating. Chris and Carolyn aim to demystify some of that and hopefully create curiosity about improving your relationship.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions...
2024-08-0939 min
Positive DisintegrationThe Power of Professional IdentityIn episode 61, Chris and Emma were joined by Dr. Sarabeth Berk Bickerton, a professional identity researcher and the leading expert on hybrid professional identity. Sarabeth is based in Boulder, Colorado, and author of More Than My Title: The Power of Hybrid Professionals in a Workplace of Experts and Generalists. Understanding and articulating your professional identity is essential for achieving fulfillment and success in the workplace. Sarabeth emphasized the significance of understanding and articulating your professional identity beyond job titles. She stressed the importance of recognizing ourselves in our work, independent of the tasks we perform. We delved i...
2024-08-061h 06The Blocked PodcastBlocks that Can't Be OvercomeIn this episode Carolyn and Chris look at some blocks that we may not overcome. There are sometimes things that happen where the injury is too great, or trying to overcome the block may not be safe.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Show Hosts:
Chris Wells: chris@aohcc.com
Carolyn Wenner: carolynwenner3@gmail.com
2024-05-1728 minThe Blocked PodcastValidationIn this episode Carolyn and Chris look at how validation as a block to connection. Validation is great and most people thrive on having their experience seen and heard. Sometimes giving validation can be difficult, especially when you don’t share the same experience of a situation. Can we be curious about validation and how we can validate another’s experience without invalidating our own?
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and...
2024-05-1032 minThe Blocked PodcastIn Memory of Sue JohnsonIn this episode Carolyn and Chris pay tribute to Sue Johnson, creator of Emotionally Focused Therapy. Sue passed away at the age of 76 on April 23rd, 2024. Sue left an incredible legacy by impacting countless relationships and shaping couples therapy as we know it today. Rest in Peace Sue.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Show Hosts:
Chris Wells: chris@aohcc...
2024-05-0320 minThe Blocked PodcastCuriosityIn this episode Carolyn and Chris discuss what it means to be curious. You hear us talk about being curious about yourself and your partner all the time. What does that actually look like? Curiosity should be a good thing in relationship, but the way we approach it can sometimes send the wrong message. Are you being curious in your relationship? Has your own curiosity seemed to block connection? Listen as our hosts explore curiosity as a block and how it can be genuinely connecting.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes...
2024-04-2629 minThe Blocked PodcastParenting Part 2In this episode, Carolyn and Chris continue to explore the blocks to connection that show up in parenting. In addition to exploring our own triggers and understanding our past’s affect on our current relationships, this episode focuses on how we had parenting modeled for us and how we can model it for our own children.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Sh...
2024-04-1930 min
Positive DisintegrationFrom the Archive: Inner GrowthWelcome to the first official “From the Archive” post. We’ve added DC Archive to our Substack navbar, where you’ll find posts like this one with media shared from our Dabrowski Center archive. The presentation featured in this post was given by Dr. Michael M. Piechowski at the 12th Annual Hollingworth Conference for Highly Gifted in Manchester, New Hampshire, in May 1999.This audio recording was converted to mp3 from a cassette tape Michael sent to Chris in June 2018. The handout was discovered in a box of transparencies and documents Michael shared with Chris in May 2021...
2024-04-1545 min
Positive DisintegrationAutoethnography for Personal GrowthIn episode 56, Chris and Emma discussed autoethnography as a research method, and powerful tool for autopsychotherapy and transformation. Chris described autoethnography as a method for delving into one's life (usually through writing about it), not as an isolated individual but within the broader context of social and cultural influences. This method allows you to understand yourself within systems, considering factors like race, gender, class, privilege, oppression, and trauma.Emma and Chris emphasized the value of gaining insights into your past experiences and behaviors. You can identify turning points and epiphanies, leading to a deeper understanding of yourself...
2024-04-0833 minThe Blocked PodcastParenting Part 1In this episode Carolyn and Chris explore common blocks to connection in parenting. This topic is too broad to condense into one episode, so there is a part 2 coming. Often, differences in our parenting style or how we saw it modeled for us can create tension or blocks to connection with our partners. Hopefully, this episode spurs you to be curious about how the important job of parenting children can create disconnection in our relationships.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption...
2024-04-0535 min
Positive DisintegrationGifted Intersections and TransformationIn episode 55, Chris and Emma talked with Kaitlin Smith, a Boston-based scholar, facilitator, and founder of Our Wild Minds, which offers online community and programs that help gifted BIPOC unleash their natural gifts. Kaitlin is also a PhD student at Harvard in History of Science where her research interrogates the history of mind sciences and intersections with African American Studies.Kaitlin shared how her personal experiences and challenges led her to explore Dabrowski's theory of positive disintegration and its relevance to her life and studies. She discussed the complexities of being gifted within the context of racial...
2024-03-2656 minThe Blocked PodcastFinancesIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris explore relationship blocks that come up surrounding finances. Being in sync with your partner on finances is an important foundational part to any marriage or serious long-term relationship. However, it is not the dollars and cents that are the blocks but the emotions that come up surrounding them. The way each partner views finances and money influence the messages we send and receive surrounding money. How can we be curious about the meaning money carries for our partners so we can just see finances as a problem to solve and not our partner...
2024-03-2230 min
Positive DisintegrationRethinking Mental IllnessThis post contains the transcript and audio recording from a panel session I participated in at the virtual 2022 International Symposium on Autoethnography and Narrative (ISAN). I originally posted it for paid subscribers, and I’ve edited the audio to share it with our whole Substack list. The panel session I participated in at ISAN, “Resilience, Trauma, and Suicide,” was moderated by Talia Aygun on January 5, 2022.The presentations from our panel included:* Autoethnography of a Japanese Suicide by Hayate Hosenji * “I’m Happy I Helped”: A Critical Meta-Autoethnography on a Field Relationship by Jennifer...
2024-03-1809 minThe Blocked PodcastBoundaries and UltimatumsIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris explore boundaries. Boundaries are meant to define where a person begins and ends. They are often in place to be protective of a relationship. When they are clearly set and communicated, they can be a healthy and fruitful part of all relationships. Sometimes they can show up as blocks in our relationships and seem harsh and controlling. Boundaries can also sometimes become ultimatums. How can we be curious about our partner’s boundaries and learn to be curious and shift our view of boundaries to an opportunity to connect and build a stronger re...
2024-03-1528 min
Positive DisintegrationNavigating the Tides of ChangeEpisode 54 features the presentation Chris and Emma gave at Gift-a-Palooza 2024, a virtual summit with more than 45 speakers on the topics of giftedness and neurodiversity. This was our first time presenting together, and we had a great time. We edited the audio from our discussion of positive disintegration in gifted adults. The Q&A isn't included.If you’re reading this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or another podcast platform, please visit the show notes on Substack for the slide images. This first slide is Emma’s representation of the process of positive disintegration. [From the transcript] Emma...
2024-03-1146 minThe Blocked PodcastRushed ApologiesIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris discuss how a rushed apology can be a block to connection. Sometimes we can rush to an apology to smooth things over or because we just feel obligated to apologize. The rushed apology can act to remove some anxiety over the offense, but it does not really help to heal the hurt. Can you be curious about how you handle apologies, are you quick to apologize, do you apologize excessively, is the purpose of your apology act more to help you or to heal the injury? Being curious about this may help build...
2024-03-0841 minThe Blocked PodcastPerfectionism and ProcrastnationIn this episode Carolyn and Chris explore how perfectionism and procrastination show up as blocks in relationships. These two emotional regulation strategies can come across as overbearing or lazy, but what is actually driving them? We explore what may be going on under the surface and how being curious about that could be an opportunity to connect.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
2024-02-2334 minThe Blocked PodcastAngerIn this episode, Carolyn and Chris talk about how the emotion of anger shows up as a block in relationship. Anger, because of the negative behaviors associated with it, often gets a bad rap. Anger can be misunderstood and is often trying to communicate an unmet need, but the way it affects our partners can leave both partners hurt. If we can be curious in safe ways around anger, it may be possible to identify and respond to the unmet need causing the hurt.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The...
2024-02-1630 min
Positive DisintegrationVoice as a Mirror of Inner StatesIn episode 52, Chris and Emma talked with Laura Stavinoha, who offers singers and speakers coaching and counseling about the voice and personal development through her company, Use Your Voice. Laura is the author of the book Voice: A Multifaceted Approach to Self-Growth and Vocal Empowerment and editor-in-chief of the Dutch Positive Disintegration website. She will join us in Denver this summer to present her work at the 2024 Dabrowski Congress. The human voice is a tool for communication, and a reflection of our inner state. Laura discusses how the voice can provide insights into our emotions, stress levels...
2024-02-121h 04The Blocked PodcastUnderstanding EmotionsIn this episode Carolyn and Chris explore understanding emotions. Emotions for some are not very clear and end up blocking our ability to communicate what we are actually experiencing. We all experience emotions, but many people have a hard time understanding what our emotions are trying to tell us. We explore the adaptive nature of emotions, how we experience them through our bodies and the ways we make sense of them. Much of society teaches us that emotions are weak and dangerous and must be pushed down. Hopefully after this episode, emotions can be seen as our bodies trying...
2024-02-1135 min
Positive DisintegrationQuick Bite: Gift-a-PaloozaIn episode 51, Chris and Emma shared the news that they are presenting at a virtual summit, Gift-a-Palooza, and discussed their plans for the session. This is also the first episode where we’ve included outtakes at the end. We hope our errors and laughter are as amusing for you as they were for us! [Click here for Episode 54 and listen to the audio from our session.]Gift-a-Palooza will be the first time Chris and Emma team up for a presentation. Their session is “Navigating the Tides of Change: Positive Disintegration in Gifted Adults,” and it’s happening on Satur...
2024-01-1221 minThe Blocked PodcastFamily of OriginIn this episode we explore how the families and models for relationships that we experienced influence how we handle emotion. How did our families handle emotion, conflict and resolution? When we look at some of these factors, our own responses to emotion and disconnection start to make more sense.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Show Hosts:
Chris Wells: chris@aohcc.com
2024-01-1231 minThe Blocked PodcastStressIn this episode we explore how stress can block our connections. How does daily stress make it hard to slow down and tune in? The structure of daily lives, driven by stress, keeps us from building margins to connect. When our daily lives put pressure on us to carry extra weight, we lose capacity to be present with our partners. Can we be curious about our partner’s stress and connect with each other by being able to share that extra weight we carry?
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The vi...
2024-01-0533 min
Positive DisintegrationGiftedness and PersonalityIn episode 50, Chris and Emma talked with Dr. Deborah Ruf, author of the award-winning book 5 Levels of Gifted. In 2023, she released a follow-up book called The 5 Levels of Gifted Children Grown Up: What They Tell Us. Our conversation highlights her expertise in studying giftedness and personality across the lifespan.We started the episode by asking Deborah to share her journey, and learned how she was first introduced to Dąbrowski’s theory in the early 1990s. Her dissertation study included the theory of positive disintegration, which she has worked with for many years. We discussed how she inc...
2024-01-041h 16The Blocked PodcastPursuing and WithdrawingIn this episode we further breakdown the negative cycle and the “go-to” moves we have learned to handle difficult emotions and disconnection. These strategies either move us toward our partners or away from our partners, but for very good reasons. We try to show how the messages we hear from the time we are children through adulthood influence the way we all handle emotion in relationship.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of ther...
2023-12-2236 minThe Blocked PodcastThe Negative CycleIn Episode 6 we identify the repeated patterns of disconnection in relationships that we in the EFT world call the negative cycle. Have you ever noticed that no matter what tension comes up in life, the way you and your partner respond to each other is the same. We often refer to the negative cycle in The Blocked Podcast and this episode gives more context to what this cycle is and how it pulls partners into a dance that neither one want to be in.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The...
2023-12-1527 minThe Blocked PodcastTraumaIn Episode 5 we discuss how our past traumas can block our connection. Whether it is a big T trauma from death, injury, or sexual assault or little t trauma that we all experience, they can shift our worldviews and create really big responses. When this happens both partners struggle to make sense of the intense emotions that seem to come out of nowhere. We look at trauma as a violation in human connection; how our bodies tell us we are not safe when we are reminded of the trauma; and we get curious about how each partner struggles when...
2023-12-0830 minThe Blocked PodcastParents and In-lawsIn our fourth episode we discuss how our relationship with our parents and in-laws can block our romantic relationships. We all bring in frameworks for our romantic relationships from how we saw that modeled for us. We navigate topics like the shift from parent/child to parent/adult child relationships, creating boundaries in our parental relationships that protect our romantic relationships, and how our different experiences can block our partner connection.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant...
2023-12-0129 min
Positive DisintegrationPiechowski's Insights on Positive DisintegrationIn episode 48, Chris and Emma talked with Dr. Michael M. Piechowski, close collaborator of Dr. Kazimierz Dąbrowski and a scholar in the field of gifted education. Michael’s work has expanded our understanding of the theory of positive disintegration and the qualitative experience of giftedness.We covered many topics in this episode, from Michael meeting Dąbrowski in Edmonton in 1967 to his retirement from Yunasa last summer. We learned about Michael’s early work with the theory and conducting research, the transition from science to counseling and pursuing a second doctorate, rethinking the levels of development, and un...
2023-11-2859 minThe Blocked PodcastIntimacyIn our third episode we discuss the blocks to intimacy. Intimacy is not only sexual but actually mostly emotional connection through being seen and known by your partner (into-me-see). Vulnerability is key and foundational to intimacy, but often gets blocked by our fears. Though always risky, vulnerability sometimes feels insurmountable without a base of trust, but like a rollercoaster, on the other side of fear is reward.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place...
2023-11-2430 minThe Blocked PodcastCompeting AttachmentsIn this episode, we look at competing attachments, what they are, how they turn us away from our primary attachment figure (our significant other) and toward alternative sources of soothing. We sometimes have good reasons for turning toward something or someone that is not our significant other, but that creates distance and pain in our relationships and we get stuck. Although, when we can make the difficult turn back toward our significant other, we can find freedom in rightly ordered attachments.
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions ex...
2023-11-1728 min
The Blocked PodcastIntroductionThis introductory episode features an introduction to the hosts, Chris Wells (chris@aohcc.com) and Carolyn Wenner (carolynwenner3@gmail.com), to the focus of the podcast, and to Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Disclaimer: Some details have been edited for privacy purposes. The views and opinions expressed here are for public consumption but are not meant to take the place of therapy and/or medical attention.
Workshops Hosted by Carolyn and Chris:
Created for Connection: https://www.carolynwenner.com/created-for-connection
Hold Me Tight: https://www.carolynwenner...
2023-11-1037 min
Positive DisintegrationComplexity, Intensity, and Multiple PerspectivesIn episode 44, Chris and Emma talked with Dr. Matt Zakreski, a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodivergence and giftedness. Matt discussed his personal connections with his work as a psychologist in the gifted field and his experiences being gifted and ADHD. We discussed topics such as neurodivergence, personal growth, and giftedness, and Dr. Matt shared personal stories and insights. Matt talked about embracing complexity and multiple perspectives and told us that he supports autonomy in the path to self-discovery. This means letting people come to their own place of understanding. We don’t have to live in a wo...
2023-10-1257 min
Positive DisintegrationDynamisms, Personality Ideal, and Inner WorkIn episode 42, Chris and Emma continued the conversation with Catherine Zakoian, MA, NCC, LPC, a counselor and consultant from Boulder, Colorado, and author of Raising Gifted Children: A Practical Guide for Parents Facing Big Emotions and Big Potential. We started the discussion by asking Catherine to talk about how the dynamisms show up in her clinical practice with gifted children. She shared insights from asking kids to use symbols to identify the different parts of themselves and helping them work through and resolve inner conflicts. Catherine also discussed the tension children can experience about the world around...
2023-09-2543 min
Positive DisintegrationOvercoming the Self-Stigma of Mental Illness (Part 3)[Voiceover of written post] In part three, Chris reflects on their journey of self-discovery through the lens of Dąbrowski’s theory and autoethnography. They recount how discovering autoethnography provided them with a framework to understand their life experiences, including traumas and their father’s alcoholism. This revelation came during their doctoral studies in psychology, where they also learned about being twice-exceptional (gifted and disabled), challenging their previous beliefs.Chris discusses their struggles with mental health and addiction, initially seeking understanding through psychiatry and later questioning these diagnoses through the lens of autoethnography and Dąbrowski’s theory...
2023-09-2424 min
Positive DisintegrationEmotional Tension, the Shadow, and Personal GrowthIn episode 41, Chris and Emma talked with Catherine Zakoian, MA, NCC, LPC, a counselor and educational consultant from Boulder, Colorado. Catherine is also the author of Raising Gifted Children: A Practical Guide for Parents Facing Big Emotions and Big Potential.We discussed emotional tension and the issue of confronting our individual shadows, as well as the shadow in groups, such as families and communities. Catherine shared valuable insights on navigating this type of inner work, which can be helpful for individuals and clinicians on their personal growth journeys.Catherine shared her experiences of applying Dabrowski’s...
2023-09-1846 min
Positive DisintegrationOvercoming the Self-Stigma of Mental Illness (Part 2)[Voiceover of written post] This is part two of Chris's personal journey of overcoming self-stigma. Chris narrates their struggle with self-stigma and mental health, beginning with feeling like a failure post-high school despite being identified as gifted. Seeking understanding in psychiatry led to a deeper sense of disempowerment and self-stigma, which they define as internalizing societal prejudices, resulting in low self-esteem and poor self-efficacy.Hospitalization at 21 intensified these feelings, even as they were acknowledged for their giftedness. Chris grappled with internalized ableism, feeling broken due to their unique mental processes and an unrelenting pursuit of normalcy.
2023-09-0522 min
Positive DisintegrationQuick Bite: Writing on SubstackIn episode 40, Chris and Emma shared that they now offer a newsletter and paid subscriptions on Substack. Chris has decided to hold off on producing a book this year and instead is sharing writing for the public directly while working on other projects. Making the theory more accessible is our goal, and this is one way to get it done. Although Chris feels called to this work, the reality is that they are currently working primarily for donations. We discussed how values need to be weighed and balanced. For instance, the desire to make information about the...
2023-08-2415 min
Positive DisintegrationOvercoming the Self-Stigma of Mental Illness (Part 1)[Voiceover of written post] This is part one of Chris's personal journey of self-discovery and overcoming self-stigma. Growing up, they always felt out of sync with others, perceiving themselves as an outlier due to their intellectual giftedness and neurodivergence. They struggled with being different, leading to a belief in their own mental illness during adolescence. By 17, they had accepted this perceived mental illness, experiencing mood swings and depression, which they later saw as a mood disorder. This belief was reinforced by a bipolar disorder diagnosis at 19 and subsequent medication treatments.Chris published their first book at 20 but...
2023-08-2317 min
Positive DisintegrationDisintegration and NeurodivergenceIn episode 39, Chris and Emma talked with Dr. Joey Lawrence, a PDA autistic person, clinical psychologist, and neurodiversity advocate living and working in Australia. In this episode, we discussed neurodivergent lived experiences and how we think about and talk about these aspects of our lives with partners, clients, and at the societal level. The importance of mutual understanding was a part of this discussion, and how difficult it can be to attain.Joey shared her experiences from multiple viewpoints since she is a gifted, autistic PDAer who also is a clinician working in practice with neurodivergent clients...
2023-08-1558 min
Positive DisintegrationQuick Bite: RegretWe’ve added Quick Bites to our podcast offerings to allow Chris and Emma the opportunity to discuss topics of interest with brevity. In episode 38, the first Quick Bite episode, they tackled the issue of regret. How do we confront past decisions that haunt us? How can we use the feeling of regret as an opportunity to move forward and transform ourselves?First, we talked about the evolution of the language we use based on the realization that our words were unkind or unacceptable. And we explored navigating our digital footprint through the lens of regret, such as...
2023-08-0823 min
Positive DisintegrationSelf-Directed EducationIn episode 37, Chris and Emma talked with Marni Kammersell, a 2e adult, doctoral student at Bridges Graduate School, and parent of three 2e children in Colorado. We started this episode by discussing our concerns about how overexcitabilities are sometimes interpreted in the gifted community. Parents of gifted and 2e children sometimes discover the OEs and stop there without exploring the types of neurodivergence that may be present in their children. We talked about the reality that it’s possible to have a healthy neurodivergent identity without pathologizing oneself. Marni shared experiences from her journey as a 2e pa...
2023-07-2059 min
Positive DisintegrationFostering Gifted Growth at Yunasa*Note: Chris will not be returning to Yunasa. In episode 36, Chris and Emma discussed Yunasa, a camp for gifted and twice-exceptional children offered by the Institute for Educational Advancement. Working at Yunasa and spending time with everyone involved is a highlight of Chris’s year.Chris has worked at Yunasa West four times since 2019 and shared what it’s been like to speak with the campers about Dąbrowski’s theory and overexcitability. Chris talked about workshops with the campers, and the challenge of discussing positive disintegration without excessive jargon. We discussed how the campers relate to the the...
2023-07-071h 02
Positive DisintegrationMental Health Awareness**Content warning**: Please be aware that this episode contains sensitive topics such as addiction, death, suicide, and trauma. In episode 34, Chris and Emma talked about mental health. The episode is a part of SENG’s outreach efforts for Mental Health Awareness Month. We discussed the theory of positive disintegration as an invaluable tool for reframing our personal beliefs. How can big emotions be helpful in your development and not a sign of mental illness? We talk about our experiences with difficult emotions and tough times, and how the theory of positive disintegration offered us a ne...
2023-05-2358 min
Positive DisintegrationYou Are Not Alone!In episode 32, Chris and Emma talked with Sophia Elliott, parent, advocate, and host of the Our Gifted Kids podcast. We covered a wide range of topics in this conversation, from learning about Dąbrowski’s theory, neurodiversity, and giftedness to education, policy, and parenting challenges. We also covered storytelling, podcasting, and the value of sharing our personal experiences.Sophia talked about the beauty of positive disintegration as an alternative framework. She described the overexcitabilities as a “gateway drug” that draws people in and said that it’s meaningful to go deeper into the theory as a way of unders...
2023-04-131h 08
Positive DisintegrationGifted ConnectionsIn episode 31, Chris and Emma talked with Celi Trépanier, author, blogger, and parent, about the gifted community and the challenges of raising gifted kids and being a gifted adult. Together, we talk about the importance of friendships, connections, and support within the gifted community.Celi was Chris’s first friend in the gifted world. Celi held space and supported Chris during those first years when they were studying the theory of positive disintegration and giftedness while trying to find a way forward in their work. Celi and Chris share their story and talk about the important rol...
2023-03-3049 min
Positive DisintegrationThe Disintegrating DuckIn episode 29, Chris and Emma discussed The Ugly Duckling, the classic fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, from the perspectives of giftedness, neurodivergence, and positive disintegration. We discussed aspects of our personal journeys and the impact of discovering Dąbrowski’s theory, and how these relate back to themes in the tale.Some of the themes we cover include—the realization in our 40s that we’re happier than we ever expected to be, overcoming the feeling of brokenness, and the traumas that accumulate over a lifetime of being gifted and an outlier.We also discuss...
2023-02-2655 min
Positive DisintegrationThrough the Neurodivergent MirrorIn episode 27, Chris and Emma were joined by Dr. Tracy Winter, an ICF-credentialed coach with a PhD in Human Development. In her coaching practice, she works with neurodivergent adults and specializes in the gifted / 2e population. We talked about Tracy’s dissertation research on gifted adults “being seen,” where most of her participants fell into two groups: they were not seen as gifted, or they were mis-seen in a way that was not aligned with their self-perceptions. We discuss the importance of “mirroring”—finding yourself reflected in others—and the loneliness that can happen when we are not seen for o...
2023-01-2956 min
Positive DisintegrationExperiences Being Profoundly Gifted: Part 1In episode 25, Chris and Emma were joined by Nth Bar-Fields and Joi Lin. This fascinating and fun discussion was too long for one episode, so we’ve split it into two for your listening enjoyment!Nth is a co-founder of Elysian Trust, and Joi is a doctoral student in Gifted Education Leadership at the University of Denver. Chris joined Nth and Joi in March 2022 for a panel session called Experiences Being Highly and Profoundly Gifted at the DU Gifted Education Policy Symposium and Conference. This episode is a product of that collaboration, and covers some of the sa...
2023-01-031h 02
Positive DisintegrationThrough the Lens of YouthContent warning: This episode includes sensitive topics such as depression, intrusive mental imagery, and suicidal ideation. Please also note that our guest was known as Lance at the time of recording, but later changed their name to Seph.In episode 24, Chris and Emma were joined by Seph Johnson (recorded as Lance), a college student from Colorado with a deep interest in Dąbrowski’s theory of positive disintegration. Chris first met Seph in 2019, and their conversations over the years were rich with insight, humor, and a shared passion for the inner life.We explored the cha...
2022-12-2058 min
Positive DisintegrationExplorations in Gifted DiversityIn episode 23, Chris and Emma were joined by psychologist Jennifer Harvey Sallin, founder of InterGifted, a worldwide community and support organization for gifted adults. This conversation is a celebration of gifted diversity in adulthood! We talked about what giftedness can look like in adults, how it manifests, and the great range of diversity within giftedness. Jen shared her model of giftedness with us, which describes the areas of giftedness, and shows how everyone’s ‘gifted profile’ can look different. What is success, and what does it mean in today's commercial context? Jen described being a generalist or “multipot...
2022-12-0355 min
Positive DisintegrationNonviolent CommunicationIn episode 22, Chris and Emma talked with Bob Yamtich, a coach who uses Nonviolent Communication to build poise, joy, self-connection, and choice. We talked about Nonviolent Communication with Bob, as well as empathy, needs, and strategies. We discussed shared connection and living in a shared reality, as well as connection requests. This is a primer in NVC with someone who lives it and uses it as a coach. Bob and Chris worked through an issue she had on social media and how she might have handled it differently. We talked about having the option, but not the...
2022-11-241h 01
Positive DisintegrationGTN Awareness WeekIn episode 21, Chris and Emma were joined by Marc Smolowitz, a director, producer, and executive producer who is currently in post-production on THE G WORD, a feature-length documentary that aims to be the most comprehensive film ever made on the topics of gifted, talented, and neurodiverse education across the United States. We were happy to talk with Marc and help celebrate THE G WORD's second annual Gifted / Talented / Neurodiverse Awareness Week. GTN Awareness Week included a great selection of panels and programming from October 24-28, 2022. In our discussion, we covered a range of topics, including storytelling, intensity...
2022-10-2859 min
Positive DisintegrationCreativity and AuthenticityIn Episode 15, Chris and Emma were joined by Melissa Bernstein, co-founder of Melissa & Doug Toys and author of LifeLines. We learned about Melissa’s inspirational journey to self-acceptance and living authentically after spending decades of her life suffering from existential depression and angst. Melissa discovered Dąbrowski’s theory in her late 40s and described the relief she felt from learning about overexcitabilities as a framework for understanding her lifelong intensity and sensitivities. She described reading Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning and learning the word “existential” for the first time, and feeling that it was like bein...
2022-06-061h 09
Positive DisintegrationThrough the Dąbrowski LensIn episode 13, Chris and Emma were joined by Dr. Amanda Harper, an educator and Dąbrowski scholar from Tasmania, Australia. We discussed the deep and fascinating work that Amanda has done in examining Dąbrowski’s writing. The focus was on two of her published papers: one on Empathy and the Syntonic Continuum, and the other on Philosophy, Faith, and the Personality Ideal. We talk about the differences between syntony and empathy, how they look across various levels, and how Amanda mapped them in order to create a visual guide to these important dynamisms. We explore the valu...
2022-05-1153 min
Positive DisintegrationPositive Disintegration in Children and AdolescentsIn episode 11, Chris and Emma were joined by Tina Harlow, LCSW, a child and family therapist specializing in giftedness in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, who shared her experiences as a neurodiversity-affirming clinician. She talked about how overexcitabilities can differ among family members and the importance of understanding and honoring these differences. She also shared strategies for dealing with the different types of overexcitability. We discussed how positive disintegration can manifest in children and teens, and how Tina supports children and their families through existential depression, physical signs of stress, spiritual crises, and more. We learned about the prevalence of gender-nonconforming chil...
2022-03-2954 min
Positive DisintegrationNature, Spirit, and DisintegrationIn episode 10, Chris and Emma were joined by Dr. Eric Windhorst, a counsellor, coach, and psychotherapist committed to helping others connect with their inner nature (their true, authentic selves) and outer nature (the wider, more-than-human world). Eric shared his story with us and connected his experiences of personal growth and development with Dąbrowski’s theory as well as other frameworks. He discussed spirituality, an aspect of self that is often overlooked in intellectual frameworks, and we learned about Eric’s journey to becoming his authentic self. Eric recalled an experience working in a greenhouse during his teen years and h...
2022-03-201h 04
Positive DisintegrationSurviving Disintegration**Content Warning**: Please be aware that sensitive issues such as suicide attempts, hospitalizations, police-related trauma, and drug use and treatment are mentioned. We’d also like to include a language warning for this episode.In episode 8, Chris and Emma share their personal experiences of positive disintegration, in an intimate, honest (and brave) discussion. They connect these life stories with constructs from Dąbrowski’s theory, and explore the dynamisms which other people might be experiencing during their own times of crisis and disintegration.There is bonus content available for this episode (Paid subscribers only)Bel...
2022-02-081h 04
Positive DisintegrationAutopsychotherapy and Self-LeadershipIn episode 6, Chris and Emma were joined by Kate Arms, JD, PCC, a leadership coach who talked about her personal experience of development through positive disintegration, and how she created her own autopsychotherapy practice. What is Autopsychotherapy? This is a question that has been asked often on social media, and it is one of Dabrowski’s dynamisms that requires more explanation than you will find in the literature. Kate talks about some of the strategies and methods that have worked for her, and we share our ideas and stories on what we have found useful, in the ho...
2022-01-121h 01
Positive DisintegrationResearching OverexcitabilityIn episode 5, Chris and Emma were joined by Dr. R. Frank Falk, who has been dealing with the construct of overexcitability as a researcher for more than 40 years. Frank talked about his work with the original Overexcitability Questionnaire (OEQ) and the subsequent development of the Overexcitability Questionnaire-Two (OEQ-II). We discussed the challenges of researching OE and the effort that Chris and Frank are making to rectify misunderstandings about Dąbrowski’s theory in the gifted community. Resources mentioned during this episode: Developmental Potential by Michael M. Piechowski (this is the chapter Frank mentioned from New Voi...
2022-01-0352 min
Positive DisintegrationOverexcitabilities and PseudoscienceIn episode 2, Chris talked about their presentation at the 2021 NAGC Conference on distinguishing science from pseudoscience. Emma and Chris went over the five types of overexcitability and their forms and expressions, the connection between OE and positive disintegration, and also discussed some of the myths and misunderstandings about OEs that are found in the gifted community. Resources mentioned in this episode:Mellow Out by Michael M. PiechowskiReexamining Overexcitability: A Framework for Understanding Intense Experience by Piechowski and WellsThe Origins and Conceptual Evolution of Overexcitability by Wells and Falk
2021-11-221h 02
Positive DisintegrationWelcome to Positive Disintegration!In the inaugural episode, Emma and Chris introduced themselves and Dąbrowski’s theory of positive disintegration. The discussion touched on some of the basics, such as: * Who was Dr. Kazimierz Dąbrowski, and where did his theory come from?* What is positive disintegration?* Unilevel vs. Multilevel processes* Overexcitabilities and Developmental Potential* Levels of Development* DynamismsWe also talked about how Chris and Emma came to learn about the theory and find meaning in the idea of positive disintegration. Thank you for joining us on this...
2021-10-2553 min