Shows
A Hero's Welcome PodcastNavigating High-Conflict Divorce Therapy with Berenice Leon-FonsecaSend us a textFew therapists willingly choose to work with high-conflict divorce cases. The fear of subpoenas, licensing board complaints, and getting caught in legal crossfire keeps many clinicians from helping the families who may need them most. But Berenice Leon Fonseca sees things differently.Drawing from her unique background in law and family therapy, Berenice illuminates the path for therapists who want to serve families navigating the painful journey of separation but feel intimidated by court involvement. She challenges the profession's tendency toward fear-based avoidance, asking a powerful question: "When we hear somebody...2025-07-2439 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastBeyond Control: How Behavior Speaks with Robyn GobbelSend us a textDemystifying the complex world of childhood trauma behaviors demands more than clinical knowledge—it requires a profound shift in how we view challenging behaviors altogether. Robin, a seasoned former therapist who specialized in supporting families of children with trauma histories, joins us to transform how we interpret behavior that seems baffling, dangerous, or personally directed.At the heart of this conversation lies a powerful truth: all behavior is communication. Robin shares how this simple-yet-revolutionary perspective changed not just her clinical effectiveness but her entire job satisfaction. For therapists overwhelmed by children's di...2025-07-1038 min
RESILIENT NOW PODCASTEpisodio 16: Conoce a Liliana | El asesinato de mi madre y tener un recién nacidoHola, soy Liliana Brown, anfitriona de Resilient Now.
Creé este podcast como un recurso seguro, solidario y gratuito para cualquier persona que esté enfrentando los desafíos más difíciles de la vida.
Desde el duelo y la pérdida, hasta el divorcio, los problemas de fertilidad y la realidad cotidiana de ser madre trabajadora, nuestras conversaciones profundizan en experiencias reales que nos transforman.
También comparto mi propia historia—crecí en el sistema de crianza temporal (foster care) y aprendí a salir adelante con el apoyo de comunidades poderosas y mujeres inspiradoras que me mostraron el camino.
Cada episodio pr...2025-07-0413 minRESILIENT NOW PODCASTEpisode 15: Meet Liliana | The Murder of My Mom and Having a Newborn – A Story of ResilienceEpisode 15: Meet Liliana | The Murder of My Mom and Having a Newborn – A Story of Resilience
In this deeply emotional episode of the Resilient Now Podcast, Liliana Brown shares her own personal story of unimaginable loss. Just one month after giving birth to her son, Liliana faced the devastating murder of her mother.
Through raw honesty and unshakable courage, she opens up about navigating grief while stepping into new motherhood, how she found the strength to keep going, and the healing power of faith, therapy, and community.
This is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit—and a re...2025-07-0314 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastThe Role of Attachment and Mentorship with Clair MellenthinSend us a textDiscover the transformative power of earned security in attachment theory with the insightful Clair Mellenthin, the brilliant mind behind Attachment-Centered Play Therapy. Clair unveils her pioneering research on the journey of registered play therapists, highlighting how their attachment histories deeply influence their professional and personal lives. This conversation offers a beacon of hope, emphasizing that early relationship patterns are not set in stone and can evolve through nurturing surrogate attachments like mentors and supervisors, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.We explore the significant impact of mentorship and its profound...2025-06-2640 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastOfficers' Path to Personal Growth and Well-being with Anjuli R. ThompsonSend us a textEver wonder how law enforcement officers manage their roles' immense stress while maintaining their identities? Our insightful guest, Anjuli Raven Thompson, a licensed professional counselor supervisor, steps into the spotlight to share her fascinating journey as a mental health advocate for police officers. Inspired by her husband's lengthy career in law enforcement, Anjali has carved out a unique niche by integrating synergetic play therapy into her work, offering officers a tailored approach to mental health support.Empathy and authenticity are at the heart of our conversation, and we emphasize the necessity...2025-06-1240 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastEmbracing Cultural Sensitivity and Early Relational Health with Dr. Meyleen VelasquezSend us a textDr. Meyleen Velasquez, an inspiring Latina clinician, joins us to share her profound journey in mental health, shaped by her own life with vitiligo and her dedication to working with perinatal and early relational health. Embarking on this path in Miami, she was one of the few Spanish-speaking clinicians, leading her to specialize in play therapy. We explore her newly published book, "What Therapists Need to Know About Perinatal and Early Relational Health," which provides an anti-oppressive framework for supporting pregnant individuals and families with young children. Listen as Dr. Velasquez emphasizes the...2025-05-2242 min
RESILIENT NOW PODCASTEpisode 1: Meet Liliana Brown | From Foster Care to Finding Freedom & PurposeEpisode 1: Meet Liliana Brown | A Journey from Foster Care to Healing Through 12-Step
Welcome to the very first episode of the Resilient Now Podcast, hosted by Liliana Brown. In this powerful debut, Liliana shares her deeply personal story—growing up in Miami, navigating the foster care system, and facing the emotional challenges that shaped her early life.
After moving to Los Angeles, Liliana began a transformative healing journey through 12-step recovery, holistic practices, and inner work. In this episode, she reflects on what resilience truly means and why she launched this podcast: to create a space for authentic connection, healing, an...2025-05-1816 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastUnderstanding Intergenerational Trauma with Mili ShoemakerSend us a textUnlock the secrets of intergenerational trauma with Milagros "Mili" Sarmiento Shoemaker, a distinguished therapist who bridges cultures from Argentina to the United States. Have you ever wondered how the experiences of your ancestors shape your life today? This episode promises insights into understanding trauma as a survival mechanism that transcends generations, using historical contexts, like wars and migrations, to illustrate the invisible threads connecting us to our past.Our conversation with Mili dives deep into the layers of generational healing, where we explore the unique privilege and responsibility our generation holds...2025-05-0839 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastUnpacking Domestic Violence: Beyond Physical Abuse with Sybil CumminSend us a textJoin us for a compelling conversation with Sybil Cummin, a licensed professional counselor whose expertise in domestic violence sheds light on a topic often misunderstood. Sybil takes us beyond the physical aspects of abuse, highlighting the more subtle yet equally damaging forms of control and manipulation that can infiltrate relationships. From financial manipulation to spiritual abuse, Sybil unpacks the various ways one partner can exert power over another, urging us to recognize these signs early on.We challenge societal stereotypes and cultural misconceptions that simplify domestic abuse to mere physical violence...2025-04-2438 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastNavigating Neurodiversity in Mental Health with Dr. Robert Jason GrantSend us a textWhat happens when the professional world of mental health meets the personal journey of neurodivergence? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Robert Jason Grant, who shares his profound experience of being diagnosed with sensory processing disorder as an adult. Dr. Grant opens up about the internalized ableism he faced and the role the autistic community played in his journey towards acceptance. We explore the often conditional acceptance of diversity in professional settings and the pressures neurodivergent professionals experience to conceal parts of their identity. This episode shines a light on the...2025-04-1037 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🎙️ Bonus Episode: Challenging Hustle Culture with Maria Diego and Liliana BaylonSend us a textWhat if the relentless drive for success is harming you? Join Maria Diego and Liliana Baylon as they critically examine the hustle culture that saturates the mental health field. Inspired by their recent book club reading, "Dynamic Drive," they share personal experiences from their rigorous academic journeys and career paths. Together, they challenge the idea that relentless hustling is necessary for success, especially when it comes at the cost of personal well-being. This episode encourages you to reconsider your definitions of success and explores healthier, more sustainable approaches to professional growth....2025-04-0331 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastThe Transformative Power of Play with Jackie FlynnSend us a textExplore the transformative world of play therapy with our insightful guest, Jackie Flynn, a passionate mental health counselor and play therapist from Central Florida. In this enlightening episode, we unpack the power of play therapy to heal psychological trauma across all ages, thanks to the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and change. Jacqueline shares her inspirational journey and dedication to making mental health resources more accessible, especially within BIPOC communities. Recognized by EMDRIA for her advocacy, she elucidates the profound therapeutic value of play, underscoring it as a vital healing process rather than...2025-03-1335 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastTransforming Mental Health Experiences for BIPOC Communities with Joy EwingSend us a textWhat if mental health care could be as inviting as a spa day? We sit down with Joy Ewing, a trailblazer in holistic therapy and owner of Joy Life Counseling, to uncover how she's transforming mental health support for the BIPOC community in Aurora, Colorado. Joy shares her groundbreaking approaches, including emotionally focused therapy (EFT), EMDR for trauma, and alternative therapies like neurofeedback and yoga, all tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. Her practice stands out by offering specialized support groups, such as those for Black mothers, and community-building activities...2025-02-2832 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast📖 The Latinx Guide to Liberation: Healing from Historical, Generational, and Individual Trauma with Vanessa PezoSend us a textWhat happens when the pressure to be "twice as perfect" meets the complexities of cultural identity? Join us as trauma therapist and author Vanessa Pezo unravels this very question in our latest episode. Vanessa's groundbreaking book, "The Latinx Guide to Liberation," provides a powerful framework for understanding the pressures Latinos face navigating American and Latino cultural expectations. Through the lens of iconic stories like "Selena" and the personal narratives of immigrants, Vanessa sheds light on the profound impact of historical and generational trauma. Her insights challenge prevailing stereotypes, urging us to honor the...2025-02-2128 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastThe Journey to Mindfulness Self Compassion with Rose LaPiereSend us a textWhat if embracing your own imperfections could not only enhance your life but also positively impact those around you? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rose Lapierre as we unravel the art of mindful self-compassion. Inspired by thought leaders like Dr. Kristin Neff and the Dalai Lama, Rose shares her transformative journey, shedding light on how recognizing our shared human struggles can cultivate compassion for oneself. As therapists, mothers, and entrepreneurs, we navigate the intricate dance between professional duties and personal wellbeing, underscoring the vital role of mutual support in our quest...2025-02-1333 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast📖 Book: White Supremacy is All Around... by Dr. CadetSend us a textWhat if navigating the world felt like a constant battle against invisible forces? Dr. Cadet, a Black, disabled woman, shares her compelling journey through high school discrimination, chronic pain, and the societal tensions that inspired her book, "White Supremacy Is All Around: Notes from a Black, Disabled Woman in a White World." As an advocate, leader, and owner of the Oakland Roots and Soul soccer teams, Dr. Cadet opens up about her multifaceted career and the profound impact her work has had on readers seeking guidance through societal challenges. In a r...2025-02-0651 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastNavigating Subpoenas: Legal Insights and Empowerment for Therapists with Julie JacobsSend us a textJulie Jacobs, a psychologist turned attorney, offers a treasure trove of insights for mental health providers seeking to navigate the often intimidating world of subpoenas. Ever wondered how to maintain composure when faced with legal documents demanding client information? This episode promises to equip therapists with the knowledge and confidence to tackle these challenges head-on. Julie's unique journey from psychology to law provides a fresh perspective on the intricacies of legal requests, particularly in the post-COVID landscape, where a new wave of therapists is emerging.Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding...2025-01-2335 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🏰 Disney on the Brain: Embracing Sadness and Embarrassment with Lisa AndrovichSend us a textWhat if you could harness the magic of Disney to make complex mental health concepts accessible and relatable? Join us as we chat with Lisa Androvich, a spirited licensed marriage family therapist and registered play therapist who brings a whimsical touch to therapy by channeling her inner Sorcerer's Apprentice Mickey. In this enchanting episode of A Hero's Welcome Podcast, Lisa shares her innovative presentation, "Disney on the Brain," where she uses beloved Disney characters and stories to foster empathy and understanding. With the help of classics like "Encanto," Lisa creatively illustrates generational communication...2025-01-1625 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastThe Therapist Caregiver: Managing Professional and Personal Challenges with Jared AndesSend us a textWhat happens when a therapist becomes a full-time caregiver? Meet Jared Andes, a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor who opens up about his emotional and physical journey while caring for his medically dependent son. Jared shares the recent challenges of simultaneously caring for his younger son and wife, leading to an intense period of burnout. Hosts Maria LaCare and her co-host, an LMFT, engage Jared in a heartfelt discussion about the balance between professional therapeutic responsibilities and personal caregiving.Mental health professionals often face the stigma of...2025-01-0943 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastBuilding Resilience in Young Minds with Kathryn RaleySend us a textWhat if you could unlock the hidden resilience and healing power within children through the magic of play? Join us for an illuminating conversation with Kathryn Raley, an LPC Registered Play Therapist and supervisor, as she reveals her journey from working with adolescents to her profound discovery of play therapy with very young children. Kathryn shares her insights into the fears therapists often face when working with young kids and how the simple, yet profound act of play can bridge the gap between traditional talk therapy and the immersive, hands-on nature needed for...2024-12-1934 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🏰 Embracing Anger with Dr. Dana WyssSend us a textUnlock the secrets of managing anger and aggression in therapeutic settings with Dr. Wyss, our esteemed guest, and expert in play therapy, marriage and family therapy, and art therapy. Discover how her extensive experience in high-stress environments like foster care and psychiatric hospitals has equipped her with unique strategies to transform intense emotions into productive therapeutic outcomes. Dana provides invaluable insights into maintaining stability and safety amidst emotional turbulence through her innovative methods, such as the Invisible String. Join us as she prepares for her exciting presentation at the Play Therapy Disney Bound...2024-12-1320 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🏰 Navigating Caregiver Burnout and Resilience in Therapy with Jared AndesSend us a textEver wondered how therapists juggle their professional responsibilities while maintaining their own mental health? Discover the answer with Jared Andes, a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor, as he dives into the world of caregiver burnout and compassion fatigue. In this special episode of the Heroes Welcome podcast, co-hosts Mariela Care Diego and her lively sidekick invite you to explore the critical role play therapy plays in building resilience for therapists who are also caregivers. Inspired by the intriguing TV show Severance, the conversation sheds light on the blurred lines...2024-12-1114 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🏰 Transforming Ethics and Supervision at Disney with Melissa Wintersheid and NanDee WalkerSend us a textHave you ever wondered how ethics and supervision could be transformed into a magical adventure? Join us as we welcome Melissa Wintersheid and NanDee Walker, two creative powerhouses ready to redefine professional development against the enchanting backdrop of Disney parks. With their innovative approach, Melissa and NanDee promise to turn what was once dry and mundane into a lively, immersive experience at their Disney-themed conference. Hurry, as spots are limited, but be a part of this extraordinary journey that combines the rigors of ethics with the whimsy of your favorite childhood memories.2024-12-0924 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastExploring Disability-Responsive Play Therapy with Joey TapiaSend us a textJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Joey Tapia, a distinguished counselor education and therapy expert, as we dissect the nuances of disability-responsive practices in play therapy. Have you ever wondered how to make therapeutic spaces accessible for all truly? Joey enlightens us on the critical need for mental health professionals to broaden their understanding beyond the visible aspects of disabilities, acknowledging the challenges families face in navigating therapy. This episode promises to challenge your preconceptions and push you towards a more inclusive practice.We wrestle with the invisible biases...2024-12-0537 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🎙️ Bonus Episode: Boundaries, Consent, and Cultural Healing with Norka AyllónSend us a textUnlock the wisdom of Peruvian cosmology with Norka Ayllón, our insightful guest, as she shares her journey from a licensed professional counselor to Peruvian ceremonialist. Learn how the "four pillars" of love, reciprocity, harmony, and respect can transform your relationship approach, guiding you to trust your instincts and emotional intelligence. Norka's unique perspective invites us to embrace these philosophies not just intellectually but as a way of life, particularly for those conditioned to dismiss their body's signals.Explore the delicate dance between cultural awareness and personal boundaries. Discover how our c...2024-11-2136 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastEmbracing OCD: Unveiling the Hidden Gifts and Transformative Treatments with Bryn MurphySend us a textIs it possible to see obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as more than just a challenge? Bryn Murphy, founder of Blue Raven Family Counseling in Lakewood, Colorado, believes so. In our compelling conversation, Bryn opens up about her journey with OCD, revealing how traits often linked to the disorder have been instrumental in her professional achievements. We tackle the common misconceptions and societal stigma surrounding OCD, highlighting the importance of recognizing the unique gifts it can offer. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how OCD is frequently misdiagnosed and the critical need for improved sc...2024-11-0728 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🎙️ Bonus Episode: Creating Your Professional Will; Ensuring Continuity and Care with Cathy WilsonSend us a textDo you have a professional will to safeguard your clients and practice? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Cathy Wilson, a Colorado counselor who guides mental health professionals through preparing these crucial documents. Cathy shares her journey and the chaos following the loss of colleagues that inspired her to create workshops, a book, and an online course to help others navigate this often-overlooked necessity. Liliana Baylon, one of our co-hosts, recounts her transformative experience with Cathy's workshop, emphasizing the need for specific considerations based on credentials, like ensuring a bilingual colleague can...2024-10-2437 min
A Hero's Welcome PodcastMenstrual Health & Mental Well-Being in Therapy with Jessica KruckebergSend us a textAre you curious about how menstrual cycle health can revolutionize therapy? Discover the often-overlooked connection between hormonal shifts, mental health, and physical well-being in our enlightening episode featuring Jessica Krukerberg, a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex therapist. Jessica shares invaluable insights on how chronic pelvic pain, menstrual dysfunction, autoimmune diseases, and neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD intersect with mental health. You’ll learn to approach these complexities in therapy by considering menstrual cycles, medication, and holistic health strategies.Unpack the misinterpretations of women's health within the medical mo...2024-10-1039 min
A Hero's Welcome Podcast🎙️ Bonus Episode: Understanding Play Therapy Credentials and Their ImpactSend us a textThink having toys in a therapy room makes you a play therapist? Think again. Join us as we welcome Jen Shivey to clear up common misconceptions about play therapy and to discuss the challenging path to becoming a registered play therapist (RPT) through the Association for Play Therapy (APT). Maria Diego and Liliana Baylon team up with Jen to examine the barriers such as in-person training requirements and high costs, which can put this credential out of reach for many, especially those in rural or underserved communities. Gain insights on how therapists can...2024-09-2630 min