Shows
The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 126: "Just Move Differently" Is the Physical Therapy Version of "Just Think Positively" with Dr. Megan SteeleIf you've ever been handed a generic exercise plan for pain that's been with you for years — or felt like your provider was treating the injury you had once, not the body you're living in now — this episode gets into why that approach keeps falling short. Chronic pain isn't an acute problem with a delayed solution, and the science is finally catching up to what so many patients already knew.In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. Megan Steele, PT, DPT, PhD, physical therapist, faculty in the DPT program at Mount St. Mary's University, and PhD candidate rese...
2026-04-2458 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 125: When Your Illness Has a History: Medical Gaslighting, Invisible Illness, and Why You're Not Imagining It with Emily Mendenhall PhDIf you've ever been dismissed by a doctor, told your symptoms were stress or anxiety, or felt like the medical system wasn't built for people like you — this episode traces exactly how we got here. The history of "hysteria" didn't end; it evolved, and understanding that history might be one of the most validating things you do for yourself today.In this episode, you'll hear from Emily Mendenhall, medical anthropologist, Guggenheim Fellow, and author of Invisible Illness: A History from Hysteria to Long COVID. Her concept of structural silencing reframes medical dismissal not as individual doctors failing pa...
2026-04-1649 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 124: When Your Nervous System Shows the Problem and Has Part of the Solution: MCAS & Mast Cell Disorders with Dr. Amanda WhitehouseWhen your symptoms shift daily and no one, not even your doctor, can give you clear answers, the hypervigilance can feel like the only rational response. But what if that constant scanning is actually making your nervous system harder to calm, and there's a way to work with it instead of against it?In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, licensed psychologist specializing in anxiety and trauma related to food allergies and mast cell conditions. She reframes nervous system regulation not as a reset button, but as a slow, trust-building process, and explains why that...
2026-04-1045 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 123: If Eating Is So Good for You, Why Does It Feel So Bad with Tiffany Pecoraro RDIf you have an eating disorder and a chronic illness, recovery might not look like what gets celebrated online, and that disconnect can leave you feeling like you're doing it wrong. The missing piece isn't more willpower; it’s a provider who actually understands how these two things interact.In this episode, you'll hear from Tiffany Pecoraro, MS, RD, LD, EDOC, Registered Dietitian and founder of Freedom With Nutrition, who specializes in eating disorder recovery alongside co-occurring chronic conditions. Her insight: the goal isn't a perfect diet, it's finding every creative path toward adequate no...
2026-04-0345 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 122: Struggling to Reconnect Clients To Their Bodies? Listen to this.Therapists and Physical Therapists - Join our 6-week Chronic Illness & Medical Trauma Cohort, starting April 7th. Only 5 of 20 spots left. Learn more at https://www.thechronicillnesstherapist.com/the-chronic-illness-therapists-cohort Body reconnection is often the goal of trauma work — but it can't be where you start. In this episode, licensed counselor and chronic illness specialist Destiny Davis, LPC, CRC breaks down why sequencing matters in somatic work with chronically ill clients, what gets in the way of felt safety, and how to assess readiness without pathologizing a client's protective responses.You'll learn:- Why rushing toward body connection can flood your cl...
2026-04-0208 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 121: What Your Kidney Disease Diet Actually Needs (And What the Internet Got Wrong) with Jen Hernandez RDNIf you have chronic kidney disease, you've probably been told to cut out potassium, avoid phosphorus-rich foods, and brace for dialysis. But what if most of that advice is outdated and the foods you've been avoiding are actually the ones that could protect your kidneys?In this episode, you'll hear from Jen Hernandez RDN, CSR, LDN, who makes the case that the most powerful thing people with CKD can do isn't eliminate more foods, but stop fearing the ones that were never the problem to begin with.Connect with Destiny: Instagram / Facebook / Website...
2026-03-2743 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 120: Rethinking Chronic Illness, Healing, and Accessibility with Grace Quantock [Ep 73 REPLAY]If you've ever felt like you were failing at being sick, like you weren't trying hard enough, being positive enough, or consistent enough, this episode is for you. What if the pressure to heal is actually part of what's making things harder?In this replay from episode 73, you'll hear from Grace Quantock, psychotherapeutic counsellor, advocate, and author of the newly released book, Reclaiming Wellness with Chronic Illness. She makes a compelling case that wellness culture's obsession with cure isn't just unhelpful, it's a system designed to blame us for our own suffering....
2026-03-2057 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 119: Neurodivergence, Chronic Illness, and What the Therapeutic Space Has to Get Right with Dr. Heather OlivierIn this episode, licensed professional counselor and supervisor Dr. Heather Olivier joins us to explore the intersection of neurodivergence and chronic illness—and what it means for both clients and clinicians.Drawing from her perinatal loss research, her clinical work using Relational-Cultural Theory and Brainspotting, and her own lived experience as an autistic, ADHD individual with POTS and MCAS, Heather brings a uniquely personal and professional lens to the conversation.Connect with Destiny: Instagram / Facebook / Website______________________________🤝 RESOURCES & WAYS TO WORK TOGETHER______________________________🩺 FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS💬...
2026-03-041h 09The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 118: Navigating Relationships When Chronic Illness Changes Everything with Lisa Gray LMFTIn this episode, licensed marriage and family therapist Lisa Gray shares practical strategies for maintaining healthy relationships when chronic illness enters the picture—whether you're navigating high-conflict dynamics or learning to communicate through the unique challenges of chronic pain and fatigue.Lisa reminds us that healthy conflict isn't just about reducing fights—it's also about being brave enough to have the hard conversations chronic illness demands. Her work focuses on teaching couples to stay connected, communicate with empathy, and renegotiate their relationship over and over as illness evolves—because this is chronic, and the adjustments never really end.
2026-02-2351 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 117: Wellness When You're Chronically Ill Isn't What You Think It Is with Dr. Victoria Rodriguez, LPCIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Victoria Rodriguez, PhD, LPC, a licensed professional counselor in New Orleans, Louisiana. In her private practice, she specializes in medical trauma and provides wellness trainings for professionals and healthcare organizations. She also serves on the Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review Board with the Louisiana Department of Health to advance equitable medical care across the state.Victoria reminds us that wellness isn’t about being cured or perfectly “healthy”—it’s about intentionally designing your environment and practice so you can show up fully. She challenges the idea that rest must be earned...
2026-02-161h 05The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 116: Why Chronic Illness Requires Specialty | Chronic Illness Therapists ConferenceIn this episode, therapists Destiny Davis and Victoria Rodriguez explain why chronic illness requires specialized clinical training beyond traditional therapy approaches and discuss the first-ever Chronic Illness Therapist Conference. They explore common treatment goals for chronically ill clients—including communicating needs without feeling burdensome, learning to rest and pace, and navigating accommodations—while debunking the myth that all major medical experiences are inherently traumatic and addressing how environmental factors and systemic issues often contribute to medical trauma.Connect with Destiny: Instagram / Facebook / Website______________________________🤝 RESOURCES & WAYS TO WORK TOGETHER______________________________🩺...
2026-02-1213 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 115: Why Empathy Is Not Enough For Chronic IllnessIn this episode, therapists Destiny Davis and Victoria Rodriguez discuss why empathy alone isn't enough when working with chronically ill clients and share insights about the first-ever Chronic Illness Therapist Conference. They explore the importance of understanding medical terminology, disability theory, and evidence-based frameworks, beyond just lived experience and compassion, to effectively support clients navigating chronic illness, medical trauma, and the US healthcare system.Connect with Destiny: Instagram / Facebook / Website______________________________🤝 RESOURCES & WAYS TO WORK TOGETHER______________________________🩺 FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS💬 Clinical Consultation→ Regul...
2026-02-1213 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 114: When Money Stress Meets Chronic Illness: What Financial Therapy Actually Is with Megan Stevenson LCSW, CFSWIn this episode, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Financial Social Worker Megan Stevenson shares practical insights on navigating the financial and emotional complexities of chronic illness. Through her private practice, Curiosity Counseling and Consulting, Megan helps individuals and caregivers manage the unique intersection of money stress, healthcare costs, and the emotional weight of living with conditions like chronic kidney disease and rheumatoid arthritis.Megan reminds us that money is a skill that takes time to develop, and that financial stress during chronic illness is a predictable response to a system that was never designed to support...
2026-02-0644 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 113: For those who don’t know what to say right nowIn this episode, I reflect on the emotional and nervous system impacts of current socio-political events. I discuss the progression of my own relationship with news and politics, emphasizing the importance of staying informed while managing emotional and sensory overload. I encourage you to find and consume more neutral news sources, build capacity for conflict, and observe effective communication styles in order to find your voice. I highlight the significance of grounding ourselves in the midst of conflict and recognizing personal limits, aiming to provide guidance for those feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about how to respond to ongoing societal...
2026-02-0113 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 112: Learning to Partner With Your Body (Instead of Fighting It) with Jason Therrien DPTIn this episode, physical therapist and health coach Jason Therrien shares his compassionate approach to helping people rebuild trust with their bodies after chronic pain has damaged that relationship.Jason reminds us that most people with chronic pain aren't afraid to move; they've spent years pushing through pain and have incredibly high pain tolerances. The real fear is often about what might happen if they stop pushing, which keeps them trapped in cycles of boom and bust. His work focuses on helping people develop a more collaborative, compassionate relationship with their bodies that honors both rest and...
2026-01-301h 07The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 111: What Therapy Actually Looks Like When You Have POTS with Dr. Laurie Dos SantosIn this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Laurie Dos Santos shares her approach to supporting adolescents and young adults with POTS, dysautonomia, and chronic fatigue syndrome. With advanced training in these often-dismissed conditions and a background in designing innovative support groups, Dr. Dos Santos brings both clinical expertise and genuine warmth to her work with young people navigating complex medical and mental health challenges.Dr. Dos Santos reminds us that even with the best intentions, the healthcare system consistently dismisses people with POTS and dysautonomia. Her practice, Evolvinn Therapy and Consulting, now serves clients across 43 states and runs 13...
2025-12-1943 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEP 110: The Free Resource That's Helping People With Lung Disease Feel Less Alone with Tiffany QuickeTiffany Quicke is a Respiratory Therapist and Certified Asthma Educator and works as a Lung Health Navigator for the American Lung Association. She has over 20 years of experience working in Pulmonary Rehab and has been with the American Lung Association for 2 years. Her primary role includes being the lead Lung Health Navigator on both the COPD and Pulmonary Fibrosis education programs.Tiffany reminds us that in a healthcare system where doctors don't have time to explain how to use an inhaler or discuss what to expect at the end of life, organizations like the American Lung Association...
2025-12-1342 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 109: How to Actually Get Heard by Your Doctors (Without Getting Dismissed) w/ Kayla Thompson-RiviereIn this episode, registered nurse and personal medical strategist Kayla Thompson-Riviere shares practical strategies for getting off what she calls the "medical merry-go-round" when you're stuck, dismissed, or misdiagnosed.Kayla reminds us that even with clinical training, being the patient activates the emotional brain in ways that make self-advocacy incredibly difficult. Her work focuses on being that clinical partner who takes the time to know everything about you and helps coordinate the care you deserve.Connect with Destiny: Instagram / Facebook / Website______________________________🤝 RESOURCES & WAYS TO WORK TOGETHER______________________________🩺 FOR HE...
2025-12-0352 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 108: When Your Doctor Believes You: Finding Care For EDS, POTS, MCAS w/ Kara Pepper, MDDr. Kara Pepper joins the podcast to discuss her approach to treating the vastly overlooked triad of EDS, POTS, and MCAS, along with eating disorders. After leaving the commercial healthcare model to open her own practice, Dr. Pepper now spends an hour with patients instead of 10 minutes, giving her time to actually listen and put together the puzzle pieces that other doctors miss.She explains why validation is often the most therapeutic thing she offers, how she navigates the gray space of diseases without reliable testing, and why some of her most dramatic patient improvements come from...
2025-12-0148 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 107: Finding Safety Despite Medical Trauma with Sarah Stasica LMSWFOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS:🏢 WE’RE HOSTING A CONFERENCE! WOOO! It’ll be an IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL event in Atlanta, GA, on MARCH 6&7, 2026! REGISTER HERE!SIGN UP FOR DESTINY'S NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Parenting Sensory Kids + The Holidays (Chronic Illness Edition) with Rachael Lopez OTR/L!JOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)Epi...
2025-11-1452 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 106: Finding Joy While Chronically Ill w/ Dr. Brentia Caldwell-Smith Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS, CPCSFOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS:🏢 WE’RE HOSTING A CONFERENCE! WOOO! It’ll be an IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL event in Atlanta, GA, on MARCH 6&7, 2026! REGISTER HERE!SIGN UP FOR DESTINY'S NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Upcoming Workshops!JOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)Episode summary:In this episode, I sit down with Dr. B...
2025-11-0738 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 105: When Your Labs Are Normal But Your Body Isn't: Understanding Invisible Illness with Dr. Kara WadaFOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS:🏢 WE’RE HOSTING A CONFERENCE! WOOO! It’ll be an IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL event in Atlanta, GA, on MARCH 6&7, 2026! REGISTER HERE!SIGN UP FOR DESTINY'S NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Upcoming Workshops!JOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)Episode summary:In this episode, I sit dow...
2025-10-3150 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 104: The Emotional Burden of Chronic Illness w/ Kate Zera Kray LCSWSIGN UP FOR DESTINY'S NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Financial Wellness for Chronic Medical ConditionsJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary:In this episode, clinical social worker and psychotherapist Kate Zera Kray joins Destiny to explore Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and its powerful appli...
2025-10-3140 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 103: Your Pain Is FaceTiming, It Wants To Tell You Something w/ Kelly Clark DPTSIGN UP FOR DESTINY'S NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Financial Wellness for Chronic Medical Conditions**JOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Clark, a physical therapist and owner of Patient PT in Bloomington, Indiana, to challenge the...
2025-10-1958 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 102: Burnout Is Predictable - But Prevention Requires More Than Willpower w/ Kamilah Jones, PharmD, LPC, CRCSIGN UP FOR OUR NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Financial Wellness for Chronic Medical Conditions Oct 25th 2025 @ 12 EST:Understanding your relationship with money and building practical strategies that work with your chronic illness reality.Episode Summary: In this episode, Destiny sits down with Kamilah Jones, PharmD, LPC, CRC, to explore the crucial difference between stress and burnout, particularly for healthcare professionals. Kamilah shares her personal journey from pharmacist to therapist, including her own experience with burnout while building her private practice - and why knowing what to do wasn't enough to prevent it. They talk ab...
2025-10-0751 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 101: When Past Injuries Cause Current Problems w/ Rick OldermanSIGN UP FOR OUR NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ Financial Wellness for Chronic Medical Conditions Oct 25th 2025 @ 12 EST:Understanding your relationship with money and building practical strategies that work with your chronic illness reality.JOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary:In this episode, sports and orthope...
2025-09-241h 02The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 100: When Trying Harder Makes It Worse: A Different Approach to Chronic Illness RecoveryJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)→ The Family Waiting Room - Do your partner, spouse, friends, parents try to support you but they just don’t know how? Send them their own version of support here!**Episode summary:In this episode, I sit down with Shana Evans Bas...
2025-09-0547 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 99: How Clinical Hypnosis Actually Helps with Gut IssuesTHERAPISTS: Join my 4-week group with physical therapist Jason TherrienThis is specifically designed to reduce tension in the body that comes from 1) sitting all day and 2) holding client stories in our brains and bodies.LEARN MORE HEREGENERAL PUBLIC - JOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episod...
2025-08-2951 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 98: You Don't Have to Choose Between Conventional Medicine & Holistic Health w/ Rita Gupta, DOSIGN UP FOR DESTINY'S NEXT LIVE WORKSHOP→ When Everything’s Connected: Understanding Autism, ADHD, and Chronic Health Conditions → CLICK HERE TO JOINEpisode summary: In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rita Gupta, a board-certified family medicine physician and integrative medicine practitioner, to discuss why you don't have to choose between traditional medicine and holistic approaches when managing chronic pain. We explore the three types of pain (nociceptive, neuropathic, and neuroplastic), explore how fear and anxiety create real physical symptoms in the body, and tackle some controversial territory around vaccines and chronic...
2025-08-2257 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 96: When You Actually Need a Registered Dietitian, Not More Therapy w/ Samina QureshiTHERAPISTS! Join me and Victoria Rodriguez of Revive Counseling in our 6-week Chronic Illness Therapists Cohort! This is a curriculum-based consultation class for therapists who want to do their best work with the chronic illness population.[CLICK HERE TO JOIN]**Episode summary: In this follow-up episode with registered dietitian Samina Qureshi, we explore her new clinical textbook that tackles something I see all the time in my practice - when chronic GI conditions create eating patterns that look disordered but have nothing to do with weight or body image. Samina...
2025-08-0835 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 95: The ADHD Brain Food Everyone Says to Avoid & A Secret Ingredient for ADHD Nutrition w/ Annika Angelo MSJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, I sit down with ADHD nutrition research expert Annika Angelo to bust some of the biggest myths floating around ADHD and diet. We talk about why that viral "78% improvement" elimination diet study is actually BS, why you shouldn't be afraid of fruit, and the truth about...
2025-07-261h 02The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 92: Narcissistic Abuse When It Intersects with Chronic Pain - Insights from Pamela MadsenJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary:In this episode, therapist Pamela Madsen, MS, LPC, explores the often-overlooked connection between narcissistic abuse and chronic pain conditions. Pamela breaks down the four types of narcissistic parents (grandiose, covert, malignant, and communal) and explains how growing up with narcissistic caregivers creates hypervigilance that extends beyond scan...
2025-05-1956 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 91: Eliminating Medical Debt: How DollarFor Is Helping Patients Access Hospital Charity CareJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: This episode features Jared Walker, founder of DollarFor, a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating medical debt by making hospital charity care known, easy, and fair. Walker shares how he discovered that most nonprofit hospitals are legally required to provide financial assistance (charity care) to patients who meet ce...
2025-05-0339 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 90: The Medical System Wants To Scapegoat You - Don't Let Them w/ Jackie Williams-Reade, PhD, LMFT, LCPCJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary:Jackie Williams-Reade, a marriage and family therapist with a PhD in medical family therapy, discusses family systems theory and particularly the concept of differentiation, which involves balancing authenticity with the conforming that’s often required in relationships. Jackie explores how childhood family dynamics, esp...
2025-04-2451 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 89: Finding Purpose Through Pain - A Therapist's Journey with Chronic Illness w/ Danielle McDowellEpisode Summary:In this vulnerable and insightful episode, licensed professional counselor Danielle McDowell shares her journey of navigating professional ambitions while managing fibromyalgia. After experiencing sudden onset of symptoms following the birth of her son, Danielle recounts how she adapted her therapeutic practice and home life by setting boundaries, extending timelines, and finding community with others who understand chronic illness. She discusses the generational patterns of appearing "superhuman" that she inherited and her commitment to modeling authentic struggle for her children. Danielle's story offers valuable lessons on redefining success, embracing limitations, and finding purpose through personal challenges.
2025-04-2053 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 88: Trusting Yourself - A Conversation on Women's Health Advocacy w/ Kara CruzJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: Destiny Davis speaks with Kara Cruz, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in women's mental health, particularly perinatal mental health and perimenopause. They discuss the importance of women trusting themselves when advocating for their health needs, as many experience being dismissed or unheard by healthcare providers. Kara sh...
2025-04-1738 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 87: The Five Root Causes of Chronic Fatigue: Insights from Dr. Jenny TufenkianJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jenny Tufenkina, a naturopathic physician who shares her framework of five root causes behind chronic fatigue and complex illnesses. Drawing from both her clinical experience and personal journey recovering from fatigue twice in her life, Dr. Jenny walks us through...
2025-04-0459 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 86: Bigger than Pain: Insights on Improving Movement, Sleep, and Healing w/ David McGettiganEpisode Summary:In this episode, I chat with David McGettigan, an amazing pain and movement specialist who's been helping people for 15 years recover from chronic pain and other symptoms, like chemical sensitivity and insomnia. David works with folks who've been bounced around the healthcare system without finding real answers.I love how he frames pain as an adaptation instead of a "dysfunction" - such a game-changer! We discuss the connection between sleep and pain (mind-blowing stuff about how poor sleep literally opens neural pathways to more pain), and how morning sunlight can reset your whole...
2025-03-2251 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 85: Strength Training For Fibromyalgia w/ Rachel Smith MS, CPTJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, we speak with Rachel Smith, a certified personal trainer with a Master's in Exercise Science who specializes in working with clients with fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Rachel shares her personal journey with fibromyalgia, diagnosed in 2010, and how she discovered that strength training was particu...
2025-03-1357 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 85: Strength Training For Fibromyalgia w/ Rachel Smith MS, CPTJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, we speak with Rachel Smith, a certified personal trainer with a Master's in Exercise Science who specializes in working with clients with fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Rachel shares her personal journey with fibromyalgia, diagnosed in 2010, and how she discovered that strength training was particu...
2025-03-1357 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 84: The Truth About IBS and Nutrition: Why It's Not Just About Eliminating Foods w/ Samina QureshiJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: Samina Qureshi is a registered dietitian specializing in IBS management from a weight-inclusive perspective. She challenges the common approach of endless food elimination, revealing that the standard low FODMAP diet should only last 2-4 weeks, not months or years as many attempt. Samina explains why food sensitivity tests are l...
2025-03-0647 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 84: The Truth About IBS and Nutrition: Why It's Not Just About Eliminating FoodsJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: Samina Qureshi is a registered dietitian specializing in IBS management from a weight-inclusive perspective. She challenges the common approach of endless food elimination, revealing that the standard low FODMAP diet should only last 2-4 weeks, not months or years as many attempt. Samina explains why food sensitivity tests are l...
2025-03-0647 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 83: Is my anxiety making me sick? Mini Ep w/ DestinyJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**
2025-02-2802 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 82: Understanding Attachment Styles and Chronic Illness w/ Miranda Campbell LCSWJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, therapist Miranda Campbell, LCSW, co-author of "The Attachment Makeover," joins host Destiny Davis LPC CRC to explore how attachment styles impact chronic illness management. Miranda explains that attachment styles aren't fixed and we can develop "earned secure attachment" through intentional work. She breaks down...
2025-02-2837 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 82: Understanding Attachment Styles and Chronic Illness w/ Miranda Campbell LCSWJOIN DESTINY’S MEMBERSHIP - for folks with chronic pain & illness→ Join Welcome To The Waiting Room (ongoing support for staying regulated while living with chronic illness - This does not replace therapy, but it’s a great addition to your regular therapy appointments)**Episode summary: In this episode, therapist Miranda Campbell, LCSW, co-author of "The Attachment Makeover," joins host Destiny Davis LPC CRC to explore how attachment styles impact chronic illness management. Miranda explains that attachment styles aren't fixed and we can develop "earned secure attachment" through intentional work. She breaks down...
2025-02-2637 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 80: Movement Shouldn't Make Your Body Feel Worse w/ Monica Blied, PhD, MACL, BSPIn this episode, Dr. Monica Blied and I have a real conversation about creating a healthier relationship with movement when living with chronic illness. Dr. Blied shares her personal journey with lupus, fibromyalgia, and later-diagnosed ADHD and autism, which led her to develop the free Faces of Health app offering mental health skills and somatic exercises. She provides a practical three-step approach to movement: using technology (like the FitOn app) for accessible workouts, embracing slow pacing rather than pushing too hard, and working out with friends for accountability. Throughout the episode, we demonstrate simple chair yoga and...
2025-02-2055 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 80: Movement Shouldn't Make Your Body Feel Worse w/ Monica Blied, PhD, MACL, BSPIn this episode, Dr. Monica Blied and I have a real conversation about creating a healthier relationship with movement when living with chronic illness. Dr. Blied shares her personal journey with lupus, fibromyalgia, and later-diagnosed ADHD and autism, which led her to develop the free Faces of Health app offering mental health skills and somatic exercises. She provides a practical three-step approach to movement: using technology (like the FitOn app) for accessible workouts, embracing slow pacing rather than pushing too hard, and working out with friends for accountability. Throughout the episode, we demonstrate simple chair yoga and...
2025-02-2055 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 77: Breakfast Solutions: Finding Your Safe Foods with Chronic IllnessEpisode Summary:
This is a candid discussion between two therapists, Destiny Davis and Victoria Rodriguez, about their personal experiences with breakfast, disordered eating, and navigating food choices while living with chronic illnesses. They discuss how their relationships with food have evolved from restrictive eating patterns and diet culture influences to more balanced, intuitive approaches. Both share their struggles with food aversions, learning to listen to their bodies, and finding "safe foods" that work for them. They offer practical breakfast suggestions while emphasizing that what works for one person may not work for another. The conversation touches on...
2025-01-2557 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 77: Breakfast Solutions: Finding Your Safe Foods with Chronic IllnessEpisode Summary:This is a candid discussion between two therapists, Destiny Davis and Victoria Rodriguez, about their personal experiences with breakfast, disordered eating, and navigating food choices while living with chronic illnesses. They discuss how their relationships with food have evolved from restrictive eating patterns and diet culture influences to more balanced, intuitive approaches. Both share their struggles with food aversions, learning to listen to their bodies, and finding "safe foods" that work for them. They offer practical breakfast suggestions while emphasizing that what works for one person may not work for another. The conversation touches on...
2025-01-2257 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 76: January is for resting + reflecting (Mini Talks w/ Destiny)NEXT WORKSHOP: Your Perfect Morning Routine w/ Grace Quantock
Join us on January 25, 2025 @ 10:30am EST / 3:30 pm GMT.
Cost $17 USD but NEED A FREE TICKET?
We offer a pay-what-you-can honor system pricing. If you have the means to support our work, please do.
All profit goes toward The Farmer Fund to help support farmers in the midst of post-disaster recovery.
Discount codes:
WORKSHOP50 for 50% off |
WORKSHOP75 for 75% off |
WORKSHOPFREE for free
Purchase here: https://destinywinters1.podia.com/checkout/cart
2025-01-1205 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 72: Communicating with Your Partner (Mini Talks With Destiny)I'm starting a new series called Talks with Destiny, and they'll be very short (30seconds-10 minute) episodes with thoughts that I think help people with chronic pain and illness live life with more meaning and intention.
If you like this vibe, please rate this podcast! I am working hard to grow the audience here.
And if you'd like to join the Allowed To Ask Community, it's 50% off the yearly price right now - here's the link to join!
https://www.skool.com/mentally-wellchronically-ill-4863/about
2024-11-2301 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 71: How Universal Design Benefits Everyone w/ Tiffany YuTiffany Yu is a remarkable disability advocate, author, and community builder who has dedicated her career to creating a more inclusive world. As the founder of DiverseAbility, an organization celebrating its 15th anniversary, and author of the recently published book "The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World," Yu brings a unique perspective to disability advocacy and inclusion.
Join Tiffany’s community, DiversAbility, here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/diversabilitycommunity
Read the full summary in a blog post here: to be published soon
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CONNECT with D...
2024-11-161h 00The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 71: How Universal Design Benefits Everyone w/ Tiffany YuTiffany Yu is a remarkable disability advocate, author, and community builder who has dedicated her career to creating a more inclusive world. As the founder of DiverseAbility, an organization celebrating its 15th anniversary, and author of the recently published book "The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World," Yu brings a unique perspective to disability advocacy and inclusion.
Join Tiffany’s community, DiversAbility, here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/diversabilitycommunity
Read the full summary in a blog post here: to be published soon
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CONNECT wi...
2024-11-151h 00The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 68: Food Allergies - Building Confidence and Safety for our Kids with Food Allergies w/ Amanda Whitehouse, PhDIn this episode, Destiny talks with Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, a licensed psychologist specializing in anxiety and trauma related to severe food allergies. They explore the complexities of living with food allergies, the intertwined nature of anxiety and allergic reactions, and practical strategies for parents and children to manage these challenges.
Read the full blog post summarizing the episode here:
Food Allergies - Understanding Food Allergy vs Food Sensitivity
https://www.thechronicillnesstherapist.com/blog/understanding-food-allergy-vs-food-sensitivity
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DONATE to help our country recover from natural disasters.
🌱The Farmer Fund - https://thefarmerfund.org/...
2024-09-2059 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 64: Calming the Bear: A Guide to Easing Your Pain w/ Jason Therrien DPTChronic pain can feel like a raging bear inside you. It's loud, scary, and all-consuming. But what if there was a way to calm the bear and find some peace?
In this conversation, Jason Therrien and Destiny Winters explore the concept of pain as a complex experience, influenced by physical, emotional, and psychological factors.
Jason is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist and Certified Health and Well-being Coach, and Destiny Winters is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.
They discuss a different approach to chronic pain management – moving awa...
2024-06-251h 36The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 64: Calming the Bear: A Guide to Easing Your Pain w/ Jason Therrien DPTChronic pain can feel like a raging bear inside you. It's loud, scary, and all-consuming. But what if there was a way to calm the bear and find some peace?
In this conversation, Jason Therrien and Destiny Winters explore the concept of pain as a complex experience, influenced by physical, emotional, and psychological factors.
Jason is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Therapeutic Pain Specialist and Certified Health and Well-being Coach, and Destiny Winters is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.
They discuss a different approach to chronic pain management – moving awa...
2024-06-251h 36The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 62: Rant With Me - A mini episode w/ DestinyIn this episode, Destiny Winters LPC CRC discusses the often overlooked aspect of social needs in chronic pain management. She emphasizes how current pain research tends to focus on individual cognitive and emotional strategies, neglecting the vital role of community and social connections.
She also highlights the importance of mindfulness and psychological interventions, but stresses that these should be complemented by strong social support systems.
Join my upcoming workshops:
https://www.thechronicillnesstherapist.com/workshops
How to Reach Out Without Feeling Like a Burden
Saturday...
2024-05-3110 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 61: Is your pain a Helicopter Parent? Learning to Trust Your Body w/ Amy Toth DPTAmy Toth is a physical therapist turned chronic pain specialist with over 20 years of experience. She helps individuals recover from chronic pain by regulating and reprogramming their nervous system. In this conversation, Amy discusses the challenges of treating chronic pain, the role of the nervous system in pain perception, and the importance of building trust in your body's signals. She emphasizes the need to understand that pain does not always indicate tissue damage and that the brain can become overprotective. Amy also highlights the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in managing chronic pain. The conversation explores the concept of...
2024-05-2457 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 53: HELP, I don’t want to be a burden! An interview w/ Caylin Broome LCSWDestiny's upcoming workshops + therapy group:
Dealing With Rage, Your Health, and Your Self Workshop: https://calendly.com/destinywin/dealing-with-rage-your-health-and-your-self-clone?month=2024-03&date=2024-03-09
If you’re a resident of GA or FL and want to join my next therapy group starting April 1, email destiny@destinywinters.com for a free consultation or book a consultation online here: https://destiny-winters.clientsecure.me/
IN THIS EPISODE:
Help - I don’t want to be a burden! An interview w/ Caylin Broome LCSW
How being believed changes our lives
What it’s like when we’ve been sick for a long time
How to not...
2024-03-091h 04The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 52: Finding and Re-finding Yourself with Maureen Kane, MA, LMHC, LCPCDestiny's upcoming workshops + therapy group:
Dealing With Rage, Your Health, and Your Self Workshop: https://calendly.com/destinywin/dealing-with-rage-your-health-and-your-self-clone?month=2024-03&date=2024-03-09
If you’re a resident of GA or FL and want to join my next therapy group starting April 1, email destiny@destinywinters.com for a free consultation or book a consultation online here: https://destiny-winters.clientsecure.me/
Buy Maureen's workbook here!
A Guide Back to You: A workbook for exploring who you are and staying true to yourself https://www.amazon.com/Guide-Back-You-workbook-exploring/dp/B0CCCSSHN7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2LUX7CRUB3CUX&keywords=Maureen...
2024-03-0859 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 53: HELP, I don’t want to be a burden! An interview w/ Caylin Broome LCSWDestiny's upcoming workshops + therapy group:
Dealing With Rage, Your Health, and Your Self Workshop: https://calendly.com/destinywin/dealing-with-rage-your-health-and-your-self-clone?month=2024-03&date=2024-03-09
If you’re a resident of GA or FL and want to join my next therapy group starting April 1, email destiny@destinywinters.com for a free consultation or book a consultation online here: https://destiny-winters.clientsecure.me/
IN THIS EPISODE:
Help - I don’t want to be a burden! An interview w/ Caylin Broome LCSW
How being believed changes our lives
What it’s like when we’ve been sick for a long time
...
2024-03-081h 04The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 52: Finding and Re-finding Yourself with Maureen Kane, MA, LMHC, LCPCDestiny's upcoming workshops + therapy group:
Dealing With Rage, Your Health, and Your Self Workshop: https://calendly.com/destinywin/dealing-with-rage-your-health-and-your-self-clone?month=2024-03&date=2024-03-09
If you’re a resident of GA or FL and want to join my next therapy group starting April 1, email destiny@destinywinters.com for a free consultation or book a consultation online here: https://destiny-winters.clientsecure.me/
Buy Maureen's workbook here!
A Guide Back to You: A workbook for exploring who you are and staying true to yourself https://www.amazon.com/Guide-Back-You-workbook-exploring/dp/B0CCCSSHN7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2LUX7CRUB3CUX&ke...
2024-03-0259 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 51: How To Be Superwoman When You Live With Chronic Pain w/o Flaring Up w/ Destiny Winters LPC CRCConnect with Destiny
email: destiny@destinywinters.com
IG: @the.chronicillnesstherapist.com
website: thechronicillnesstherapist.com
***If you like any of The Chronic Illness Therapist episodes, please leave a review! Reviews tell the app, “hey, people like this! Show it in the algorithm to more people!” :)
FREE DOWNLOADS:
- “Mastering Pacing: How Slowing Down Helps you Speed up” https://spring-lion-815.myflodesk.com/eswknvrdsc
- “6 Ways To Help Your Partner Understand Your Chronic Illness” - download at this link https://view.flodesk.com/pages/628c0317081c14b7b35ee9de
FOR THERAPISTS - FREE CONSULT GROUP every third Friday of the month from 1-2:30pm EST. Join the email list here for updates: ...
2024-02-1831 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 51: How To Be Superwoman When You Live With Chronic Pain w/o Flaring Up w/ Destiny Winters LPC CRCConnect with Destiny
email: destiny@destinywinters.com
IG: @the.chronicillnesstherapist.com
website: thechronicillnesstherapist.com
***If you like any of The Chronic Illness Therapist episodes, please leave a review! Reviews tell the app, “hey, people like this! Show it in the algorithm to more people!” :)
FREE DOWNLOADS:
- “Mastering Pacing: How Slowing Down Helps you Speed up” https://spring-lion-815.myflodesk.com/eswknvrdsc
- “6 Ways To Help Your Partner Understand Your Chronic Illness” - download at this link https://view.flodesk.com/pages/628c0317081c14b7b35ee9de
FOR THERAPISTS - FREE CONSULT GROUP every third Friday of the month from 1-2:30pm EST. Join the email list here for update...
2024-02-1829 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 46: The Reality of Productivity When You’re Chronically Ill + How To Manage w/ Destiny Winters LPC CRCIn this episode, I explore the challenges of productivity when living with chronic illness. I’ll get into the concept of pacing and share personal insights on self-compassion, finding rhythms, and listening to our body’s signals. Join me as I provide valuable strategies for managing emotions and finding meaning and purpose in your pursuits.
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Connect with Destiny
email: destiny@destinywinters.com
IG: @the.chronicillnesstherapist.com
website: thechronicillnesstherapist.com
***If you like any of The Chronic Illness Therapist episodes, please leave a review! Reviews tell the app, “hey, people like this! Show it in the algorithm to more people!” :)
FREE DOWNLOADS:
- “Mastering Pacing...
2023-12-2622 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 46: The Reality of Productivity When You’re Chronically Ill + How To Manage w/ Destiny Winters LPC CRCIn this episode, I explore the challenges of productivity when living with chronic illness. I’ll get into the concept of pacing and share personal insights on self-compassion, finding rhythms, and listening to our body’s signals. Join me as I provide valuable strategies for managing emotions and finding meaning and purpose in your pursuits.
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Connect with Destiny
email: destiny@destinywinters.com
IG: @the.chronicillnesstherapist.com
website: thechronicillnesstherapist.com
***If you like any of The Chronic Illness Therapist episodes, please leave a review! Reviews tell the app, “hey, people like this! Show it in the algorithm to more people!” :)
FREE DOWNLOADS:
- “Mastering Pacing...
2023-12-2622 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 43: The Emotional Journey of Visual Impairment: Identity, Disclosure, and Growth w/ Matthew Reeves APC CRC NCCThis conversation revolves around the experience of living with low vision and the challenges it presents in various aspects of life. It touches on topics such as job transitions, disclosure of visual impairment, changing family roles, and the emotional impact of visual loss. The importance of support, communication, and finding new ways to connect and contribute is highlighted throughout the conversation.
In this episode, we discuss the experience of living with low vision and the challenges it presents in various aspects of life. It touches on topics such as
- job transitions,
- disclosure...
2023-10-2749 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 42: Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Intuition, and The Impact of Trauma on the Body w/ Meg Bearman MA, LPC-MHSP, ATR-PIn this podcast episode, Meg Bearman MA, LPC-MHSP, ATR-P discusses the connection between physical pain, emotions, and the mind-body relationship. We emphasizes the importance of understanding how physical pain can distract from emotional well-being. Meg also talks about the work she does in integrating trauma therapy and art therapy, highlighting the significance of the mind-body connection in healing. The conversation touches on topics such as chronic illness, anxiety, intuition, and the impact of trauma on the body. Overall, the discussion sheds light on the complexities of pain, emotions, and the therapeutic process.
We discuss
• What is art therapy
• Why you...
2023-10-1958 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 34: 7 Emotional Experiences During A Flare-Up w/ Destiny Winters LPC NCC CRCIn this episode, I explore the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies a chronic illness flare up. From frustration and anxiety to depression and anger, I talk about the most common emotional experiences that patients go through during these challenging times. I also discuss coping strategies and ways to manage these emotions in a healthy and constructive way. Whether you're a patient dealing with a chronic illness or a caregiver trying to support someone, this episode will provide valuable insights and practical tips for navigating the emotional ups and downs of a flare up.
DESTINY'S MEMBERSHIP...
2023-05-1028 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 33: Exploring German New Medicine w/ Katherine HoushIn this episode, we explore the controversial field of German New Medicine and its potential impact on chronic illness. German New Medicine is a theory that suggests that all diseases, including chronic illnesses, are caused by unresolved emotional conflicts that affect our body's natural healing mechanisms. Katherine Housh, a German New Medicine practitioner, will explain the principles behind this theory and how it differs from traditional medical approaches.
It is my (Destiny Winters) opinion that GNM and all alternative approaches be used in conjunction with, not instead of, conventional medicine. Use your intuition and be open to...
2023-04-2853 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 32: The Root Chakra’s Role in Chronic Pain w/ Michelle Shlafman, MS, LPC, DCEP, BCHHCIf you've ever felt like your external life was affecting your inner world, then you might want to explore how direct work on the chakras can help. There are so many modalities to choose from, such as Reiki, breath work, and EFT/tapping. However, if you're willing to take the leap and try something new, then you might just discover a whole new level of balance and harmony in your life. Reiki, for example, is a powerful tool for balancing the chakras and creating a sense of inner peace. But if you're skeptical about energy work, then it might be...
2023-04-2243 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 31: Community Is About Quality, Not Quantity w/ Mark Flanagan LCSWIn this episode, I sit down with Mark Flanagan, LCSW who has a keen interest in exploring the intricate relationship between stress and physical health. We talk about how nature can be affirming to our nervous system and the importance of making conscious choices in our lives. We explore the concept of success and failure and how it is defined by our values. Mark shares his insights on living in accordance with your values and how that can lead to a fulfilled life. Finally, we discuss the significance of building a community and how it's not just about adding...
2023-04-161h 06The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 30: Being Reliable With Your Word Despite Living W/ Chronic IllnessSOLO Episode
In this episode, I'll share some tips on how to be reliable with your word when you have a chronic illness. I talk about the importance of being honest about your limitations, having a support system in place, and taking care of your needs/boundaries.
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DESTINY'S MEMBERSHIP WAITLIST SIGNUP
*Mentally Well While Chronically Ill - Learning the art of acceptance: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/63d2912ede520bd60dc33c35
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Connect with Destiny
email: destiny@destinywinters.com | IG: @the.chronicillnesstherapist.com | website: thechronicillnesstherapist.com
...
2023-04-0714 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 29: "if we are crying, nature is still gonna hold us" | How Nature Serves Us in Therapy w/ Zara Drapkin LCSWDo you have an art project that you’ve been working on that’s been therapeutic for you? Zara’s collecting submissions for her online magazine and wants to share your work! Link to submit: https://earthbodieszine.com
Join therapist Zara Drapkin on her journey to discovering the power of nature to connect us back to ourselves. In this insightful podcast, Zara explores the themes of feeling big, feeling small, feeling dysregulated, and the importance of finding ways to feel supported through nature. Whether you live in a big city or amongst the Redwood trees, Zara believes that w...
2023-03-311h 00The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 28: Spirituality and Chronic Illness: A Grounded Conversation w/ Matthew Morse, LMHCIn this insightful episode, we explore the intricate relationships between belief systems and terminal and chronic illnesses. We explore the topic of how our relationships and bodies can be unreliable during times of health challenges and the significance of spirituality as a coping mechanism. We discuss the concept of transcendence and how it can help us find meaning and purpose in our lives, particularly during difficult times. We also touch on the importance of doing a life review at the end of life and the potential benefits of healing on biological, psychological, physical, and spiritual levels. Finally, we explore...
2023-03-2543 min
The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 25: Children With Medical Trauma and Chronic Illness - The Benefits of Somatic and Play Therapies w/ Sarah Erdman MEd APCIn this insightful episode, we explore several topics related to mental and physical health, including
the benefits of play therapy for children with chronic illnesses
the importance of allowing time to process thoughts, emotions, and fears as a means of promoting greater self-awareness and emotional regulation
body positivity and neutrality, highlighting the importance of cultivating a healthy relationship with our bodies.
Finally, we touch on the subjects of multitasking and low frustration tolerance and how they can impact our daily lives.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for improving your overall well-being.
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MEMBERSHIP WAITLIST...
2023-02-211h 00The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 24: I’m feeling better!… So was it always in my head? And other inner child questions w/ Lexi Gross LCMHCIn this thought-provoking episode, we explore the concept of single stories and their detrimental impact on our lives. We also delve into the topic of shame spirals and how to break free from them. Additionally, we explore the significance of paying attention to the sensations in our bodies for greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. We also tackle the question of whether our pain is real if it reduces and the importance of acknowledging and validating our feelings. Finally, we touch on the concept of the adult self versus the child self and how they influence our behavior and emotions...
2023-02-1051 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 23: Neuroscience and the questions it leaves us with as folks with chronic illnesses w/ Dr. Hannah KhoddamIn this episode, Dr. Hannah Khoddam and I explore various topics related to mental and physical health, including
the reliability of psychological data versus biological data
weight stigma
the importance of dropping "shoulds"
self-as-context
chronic illness and identity
pain versus suffering
changing negative thoughts
learning to trust oneself
and trusting the body's fire alarms.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies for improving your overall well-being.
Connect w/ guest Website: https://copepsychology.com/about/#ourteam
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MEMBERSHIP WAITLIST SIGNUP **Mentally Well While Chronically Ill - Learning the art of acceptance: https...
2023-02-0344 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 22: Getting the belief, compassion, and trust we deserve while chronically ill w/ Jennifer Hama, MS, LPC, CPCSJoin us in this episode as we explore the concept of accepting the unacceptable and the challenges that come with it. Our guest speaker shares their personal experience of going years without believing anything was wrong, only to realize later that they had a diagnosis. We delve into the importance of compassion from friends, family, and doctors, and what it looks like in practice. We also touch on the power differentials between patients and doctors and discuss strategies for building trust. Our guest speaker introduces the concept of Dice theory as an alternative to Spoon theory for managing energy...
2023-01-261h 10The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 21: Enneagram 2s, this one’s for you: Feeling like a burden while living with a chronic illness w/ Taylor MarmolIn this episode, we explore Taylor's research on how individuals with chronic pain manage their daily lives amidst the pain. We dive into the importance of giving and asking for help, negotiating expectations, and overcoming the feeling of being a burden. Our guest speaker shares valuable tips and strategies for having conversations about expectations, including asking for what you need and navigating potential obstacles. We also touch on the significance of accepting that these conversations may be messy at first but remain essential for building healthier relationships. Finally, we discuss tips for managing low-energy days and struggling with acceptance...
2022-12-0240 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 20: Taking Care of Your Burnt Out Body with w/ Gabrielle Juliano-Villani MSW, LCSWJoin us in this episode as we explore the concept of burnout, its signs, and how to identify when your body is reaching its limits. Our guest speaker shares valuable insights on how to manage burnout and prevent it from taking over your life. We delve into the effectiveness of Internal Family Systems in supporting clients with chronic illnesses. Finally, we touch on the differences between work values and personal values and how they can impact our well-being. Tune in to gain valuable tips and strategies for managing burnout, building healthier relationships, and cultivating a more balanced lifestyle.
2022-11-0440 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 19: What are we doing to our teens with chronic illnesses? Let’s stop the decision fatigue and just provide support w/ Victoria Rodriguez LPC, CCTP, NCCIn this episode, we delve into the concept of forcing kids to ignore their body cues and the systemic issues that perpetuate this behavior. Our guest speaker sheds light on the impact of decision fatigue and how it affects our ability to make meaningful choices. We explore strategies for learning to make more thoughtful and intentional decisions, despite the challenges we face. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to navigate decision-making, address systemic issues, and cultivate healthier relationships with our bodies.
We discuss
How we force kids to ignore their body cues
The systemic...
2022-10-2159 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 18: Medical Trauma & Gaslighting: One Therapist’s Story is Many of Our Stories w/ Christy Reichart LICSWIn this episode, we explore therapy from a feminist and social justice perspective. Christy sheds light on medical gaslighting and trauma and how they impact marginalized communities. We also share valuable resources such as books that discuss these topics, including "Doing Harm" by Maya Dusenbery, Dara Rosenberg, et al., "Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men" by Caroline Criado Perez, and "Sitting Pretty: The View from My Ordinary Resilient Disabled Body" by Rebekah Taussig. Tune in to gain insights on how to navigate therapy from a feminist and social justice lens, understand medical gaslighting and medical...
2022-10-0750 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 17: If Insomnia Is Causing Hopelessness, Here's The Best Gift You Can Give Yourself
In this episode, we delve into the limitations of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) practitioners and explore the complexities of sleep disorders. Our guest speaker sheds light on the effectiveness of CBT for insomnia (CBT-I) and the wealth of data supporting its application. We highlight the importance of seeking professional support when feeling hopeless and share valuable resources such as the CBT-I Directory (https://cbti.directory/). Finally, we touch on the significance of building healthy relationships and the importance of not going through life alone. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing sleep disorders, navigating therapy, and...
2022-09-2641 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 16: Desperate for a Chronic Pain Cure w/ Lucy Dunning LPCJoin us in this episode as we discuss the desperate search for a cure and the pitfalls of chasing cures online. We delve into the importance of acceptance and how it's not always rainbows and sunshine, but an essential step in managing chronic pain. Lucy sheds light on the grief cycle and its stages, including denial and anger. We also explore the potential of virtual reality and animal-assisted therapy in managing chronic pain. Finally, we touch on the unique challenges of parenting with chronic pain. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing chronic pain, navigating the search for...
2022-09-1057 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 15: Parenting with Type 1 Diabetes w/ Stephanie Rodenberg-Lewis, LPC, RPT, CSC, NCCIn this episode, we are joined by Stephanie Rodenberg-Lewis, a licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, certified supervisor counselor, and national certified counselor. Stephanie shares insights on the challenges and skills required to navigate parenting while living with type 1 diabetes or being a parent to a child with the disease. As a mother and T1D patient herself, Stephanie provides a wealth of resources for listeners, including the American Diabetes Association Mental Health Provider Directory Listing, an essential tool for finding a therapist who understands T1D in your state. Tune in to gain valuable tips and strategies for...
2022-08-2650 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 14: The Advice Every Therapist Wants You to Hear - Alex's Story w/ Type 1 DiabetesJoin us in this episode as we explore the complex relationship between emotions and blood sugar levels. Alex shares valuable insights on what support may look like, or not, while trying to overhaul one's lifestyle to manage diabetes. We talk about the significance of mindfulness in managing high and low blood sugar levels. Finally, we touch on parenting considerations when a child has type 1 diabetes. Tune in to gain valuable tips and strategies for managing diabetes, building healthier lifestyle habits, and effective parenting when dealing with diabetes.
We talk about
How emotions are completely intertwined with...
2022-08-1258 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 13: Slow Changing Identities after a Chronic Illness Diagnosis w/ Karen Lill, MA, LPC, ATR, ACS, NCCIn this episode, we explore the intersection of mental health and the gaming community. Karen Lill, MA, LPC, ATR, ACS, NCC sheds light on the importance of showing up as your true self and using clear language to set healthy boundaries. We discuss the significance of understanding one's wants and needs and how to communicate them effectively. Finally, we touch on the acceptance of transitioning from who you used to be to who you are now. Tune in to gain valuable insights on mental health, building healthier relationships, and embracing personal growth and change.
Karen Lill is a Licensed...
2022-07-291h 06The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 12: Beyond Talk Therapy: Bringing Purpose and Meaning into Every Session w/ Maureen Kane LMHCTopics discussed
The difference between thought-work (traditional talk therapy) and more experiential therapies (mind-body/somatic work, art therapy, and writing)
Why creating meaning around our traumas can be helpful and healing
An example Somatic Experiencing exercise, so you can get an idea of how somatic work differs from traditional talk therapy
How we can use your symptoms to help us navigate life
What happens when our relationships change and we feel a lack of understanding from others
Join us in this episode as we explore the differences between thought-work, such as traditional talk therapy, and experiential therapies...
2022-07-1535 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 11: The Foundations of Sex and Chronic Pain w/ Samantha Heuwagen, MA LMFT ACSIn this episode, we explore the often-misunderstood concept of sex therapy and how it isn't always about sex, but rather going back to basics. We highlight the importance of having open conversations about likes and dislikes with low-stakes topics as a precursor to discussing sex in relationships. Our guest, Samantha Heuwagen, MA LMFT ACS, shares expert insights on defining sex and finding what works for individual relationships, especially when dealing with chronic pain conditions. Tune in to discover valuable strategies for navigating the often-difficult topic of sex and how to build healthier relationships through communication and understanding.
...
2022-07-1546 min
The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 10: We Don't Choose Our Thoughts or Feelings, But We Can Choose A Meaningful Life w/ Dr. Jennifer SteinerEpisode themes
Identity shifts: when who you are changes because of what you can no longer do
Figuring out what’s meaningful to you and how you can incorporate more of that into your life, despite pain/illness
Working through unhelpful thoughts that can make your illness feel worse
The neurological overlap of emotional and physical pain in the brain
We don’t choose how we feel - combat unhelpful thoughts by changing your relationship to the thoughts, not by changing the actual thoughts themselves
Join us in this episode as we explore the concept of identity shif...
2022-07-0138 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 9: This Is A Moment of Suffering: Navigating the Grief of Chronic Illness Holistically and with Brainspotting with Chris McDonald, LCMHCSWe discuss:
The grief of having a flare-up after feeling well for a while
Brain spotting: what it is and how it helps with chronic pain
Repetition is important, we need to get it wrong before we can get it right
What it looks like when trauma gets released in the body.
Self-care in the realm of being a therapist
In this episode, we discuss the emotional turmoil that comes with experiencing a flare-up after feeling well for a considerable period. We talk about Brainspotting, an effective technique used in managing chronic pain. Understanding that repetition is...
2022-06-1746 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 8: Your Body As Your Ally, Not Your Enemy with Joy Johnson LCSWThemes in the conversation
Finding ‘felt safety’ in the body
Understanding how our body works for us, rather than against us
The systemic ways in which we’ve learned to ignore our bodies
Ways to befriend our bodies through difficult times, like medical procedures
Join us in this episode as we explore the concept of 'felt safety' in the body and how it can be attained. Gain insights into understanding how our body works for us instead of against us, and the systemic ways we have learned to ignore our bodies. Discover effective ways to befriend our bodies...
2022-06-0354 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 7: Can You Carry My Burden, Can I Carry Yours? Relationships and Chronic Illness with Lexi Gross LCMHC LCAS NCCLexi Gross LCMHC LCAS NCC is a mental health therapist currently in training for Somatic Experiencing. She utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as well, both of which are great modalities to help calm the nervous system.
We discuss
Navigating doctor offices and how to prepare for a visit
Navigating conversations with family
Navigating relationships - having to repeat yourself and ask for your needs
Carrying burdens with each other in relationships
In this episode, Lexi sheds light on how Somatic Experiencing and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are effective modalities to calm the nervous system. Tune in as w...
2022-05-2052 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 6: Speaking Your Piece To Find Empowerment in your Medical Care and Social Circles with Dr. Ana Laura Arteaga-BiggsWe discuss:
the anger and resentment chronically ill patients experience during the pandemic
Appropriate anger and the stigma against women and women of color who express anger
How our early childhood experiences shape our ability to deal with pain
Missed moments and how these moments go unspoken and impact how we respond to the world around us
How much our clients help us 9the therapists) by allowing us to partner with them in their emotional healing journeys
In this episode, we delve into the complex emotions and experiences of chronically ill patients during the pandemic. We explore...
2022-05-0556 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 5: Pain’s in the Brain, But Not In Your Head with Tyler Orr LPCShow notes
How pain begins and ends in the brain - supported by science;
How our early attachments show up in our pain experiences;
The 6 different types of people, according to the Constructed Awareness (CA) framework;
What therapists learn in CA in order to better help clients;
Helping clients find resources;
Reprocessing memories
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of pain and its complex relationship with the brain. Drawing on the latest scientific research, we explore how pain signals begin and end in the brain, and how our early childhood attachments can shape our...
2022-04-221h 01The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 4: This Is What Real Advocacy Looks Like, Chronic Illness Edition with Jennifer Sutton M.ed LCMHCA NCCIn this episode Jennifer Sutton M.ed shows her dedication to creating a supportive community for individuals with chronic illnesses. Through her inspiring work, Jennifer aims to connect those in need with mentors who can provide guidance and support in navigating the often-challenging healthcare system. She discusses the importance of learning to be assertive and advocating for oneself in doctor's offices, and shares her innovative approach to matching individuals with the right mentors. This much-needed service fills a crucial gap in the healthcare system, and Jennifer's insights offer hope and inspiration to all those struggling with chronic illness. Join...
2022-04-0844 minThe Chronic Illness TherapistEp 3: Responding From Trauma and Our Relationship with Chronic Pain and Disability with Rachelle Friedman LCSWIn this episode, Rachelle Friedman LCSW, an Arizona-based therapist specializing in chronic pain and chronic illness, shares her story of living with POTS, EDS, and MCAS. Through her own experiences, Rachelle offers valuable insights into the daily struggles of navigating a world that often dismisses the experiences of those with chronic illnesses. She sheds light on the impact of trauma on our relationships with healthcare providers and shares practical tips on how to take control of our lives in an ableist society. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those with chronic pain and illness...
2022-03-251h 14The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 2: Imperfectly Perfect: How Art Therapy Helps Chronic Pain and Perfectionism with Zara Drapkin LCSWIn this episode, we explore the powerful connection between art therapy and chronic pain/perfectionism. Our guest, a licensed art therapist, shares how this unique approach to healing and self-expression can help individuals transform their relationship with pain and overcome the pressure to constantly strive for perfection. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, we discover the beauty in imperfection and the restorative power of creativity. Join us as we delve into this fascinating topic and uncover the many ways art therapy can enhance our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
Zara's in the process of creating a resource...
2022-03-1157 min
The Chronic Illness TherapistEp 1: Meet Destiny- Introduction to The Chronic Illness TherapistIn this episode, you'll meet Destiny Winters - a mental health therapist who specializes in helping people with chronic illnesses live full and meaningful lives despite chronic pain and invisible health issues. Destiny's assistant, Rachel, asks Destiny some really insightful questions to get the conversation started. We talk values, choices, self-compassion, community, and therapeutic modalities.
Connect with Destiny
email: destiny@destinywinters.com | IG: @the.chronicillnesstherapist.com | website: thechronicillnesstherapist.com
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2022-02-1845 min