Shows
Psychotic P***y PodcastEscape, Reconnect, Recharge: Why Moms Need RetreatsSend us a textWhat if mothers had a retreat designed exclusively for them, where every detail was handled, where experts helped them reconnect with themselves, and where they could form genuine connections with other women navigating the same journey? That's exactly what therapist, Marissa Volinsky, has created with Off-Duty: A Mom's Retreat, a revolutionary retreat launching April 2026 in Stone Harbor, New Jersey.Motherhood, despite its many joys, can be profoundly isolating. Even surrounded by family and friends, mothers often struggle with their identity beyond being "mom," battling body image concerns, feeling overwhelmed, and experiencing...2025-07-1832 min
NorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 24: GaslightingSend us a textIn this powerful episode, host John Sternfels, LPC, a national board-certified counselor and founder of NorthPoint Professional Counseling, sheds light on the destructive psychological tactic known as gaslighting. This subtle form of emotional abuse distorts a person’s reality, often leaving them feeling confused, powerless, and emotionally isolated.John breaks down the core dynamics of gaslighting—how it works, why it’s used, and where it commonly shows up in relationships, particularly in the context of sexual addiction and betrayal trauma. With clinical insight and real-life examples, he reveals how ga...2025-07-1300 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 23: Healthy Parenting: Preparing The Next GenerationSend us a textWhat does it take to raise strong, grounded, and emotionally healthy kids in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world?In this powerful episode, John Sternfels gives us a sneak peek into his highly anticipated new book, Healthy Parenting: Preparing the Next Generation. With warmth, wisdom, and clinical insight, John unpacks what every parent needs to know to build a solid foundation for their children, one rooted in emotional resilience, spiritual depth, and relational connection.You’ll hear a real-life story, practical strategies, and timeless truths drawn from...2025-06-2211 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 22: Understand Your Attachment StyleSend us a textIn this episode of NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, John Sternfels explores the foundational topic of attachment styles—how our early childhood experiences with parents /caregivers shape the way we connect, trust, and navigate intimacy in adulthood.John unpacks the four main attachment styles—Secure, Anxious (Preoccupied), Avoidant (Dismissive), and Fearful-Avoidant (Disorganized)—offering his own, real-life example, psychological insight, and compassionate guidance to help listeners identify their own patterns.Whether you're struggling with relationship anxiety, emotional distance, or past trauma, this episode will help you:Unde...2025-06-2235 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 21: Family Impact Meeting - Strengthening Connections, Building a Healthier FutureSend us a textAre you seeking a structured approach to restore healing, truth, and unity within your home? Then don’t miss this episode of NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, where we dive into the Family Impact Meeting — a powerful, guided therapeutic approach to help families begin conversations around broken trust, addiction recovery, or betrayal trauma.Hosted by John Sternfels, National Board-Certified Counselor, author, and clinical director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling, this episode unpacks:What a Family Impact Meeting isWhen it’s most helpful in the recovery and healing processHow it gives voice to lov...2025-06-2222 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 20: Truth and Trust - Why a Therapeutic DisclosureSend us a textHosted by John Sternfels, National Board-certified counselor, author, and clinical director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling, this episode dives deep into one of the most essential—and often misunderstood—tools in healing from betrayal: Why a Therapeutic Disclosure.John brings nearly two decades of experience helping individuals and couples navigate the pain of sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and broken trust. In this episode, he explores:Why a Therapeutic DisclosureWhy Many Betraying Partners Become Hesitant To ComplyWhen it Should Take PlaceHow It Benefits Both the Disclosure and the Betr...2025-06-2222 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 19: Weekly Couples Check InSend us a textIn this episode of NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, host John Sternfels—a National Board-Certified Counselor, marriage therapist, and author—explores the power and purpose of a Couples' Weekly Check-In. This intentional practice can be a game-changer for couples looking to deepen connection, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional intimacy.John walks listeners through a successful weekly check-in structure, offering insight into how couples can create a safe space to reflect, share, and grow together. Whether you're navigating challenges or simply want to stay connected in the busyness of life, this...2025-06-2212 minPsychotic P***y PodcastFrom Breaking Points to Breaking Free: The Reality of American MotherhoodSend us a textA groundbreaking study confirms what many have suspected: mothers in America are experiencing a mental health crisis. The data reveals a sharp decline in maternal wellbeing since 2016, with one in twelve moms rating their mental health as fair or poor. For single mothers and those with children on Medicaid or uninsured, the situation is even more dire.Modern motherhood has become a perfect storm of challenges. Despite the appearance of connection through social media, many mothers feel profoundly isolated. The traditional "village" that once supported new parents has largely disappeared, replaced...2025-06-0633 minPsychotic P***y PodcastPuberty, Periods, and Judy Bloom: The Truth About Growing UpSend us a textWhen did puberty become a battleground? Today, girls as young as eight years old are experiencing their first periods—significantly earlier than previous generations—and the reasons might surprise you. The latest research challenges our long-held assumptions about childhood obesity triggering early puberty. Instead, scientists have discovered that diet quality, independent of weight, plays a decisive role in when menstruation begins. Children consuming inflammatory, ultra-processed foods face a 15% higher likelihood of early periods, while healthier diets delay onset by 8%. This timing isn't merely an inconvenience; it's a health marker with lifelong impli...2025-05-2346 minPsychotic P***y PodcastAI Therapy: The Dangerous Rise of Digital Mental HealthSend us a textThe rise of AI chatbots masquerading as mental health professionals has sparked fierce resistance from actual therapists—and with good reason. In this eye-opening episode, we unpack the deadly consequences when venture capitalists prioritize profit over people's wellbeing. We share shocking real-world examples: a man with schizophrenia who tested an AI that enthusiastically encouraged him to stop taking his medication, and the heartbreaking case of a teenage boy who committed suicide after an AI validated his darkest thoughts.What makes this trend particularly insidious is how these companies claim their systems ar...2025-05-1049 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 18: Therapeutic Marital Healing Separation AgreementSend us a textIn this compelling episode, counselor and author John Sternfels explores the Therapeutic Marital Healing Separation Agreement—a structured, intentional approach to marital separation that prioritizes healing, emotional safety, and personal responsibility. Designed specifically for couples in crisis who desire clarity, growth, and the possibility of reconciliation, this agreement creates a framework that supports individual and relational healing rather than paving the way for divorce.John walks listeners through the key elements of the agreement, its therapeutic purpose, and how it differs from traditional separations or legal arrangements. He also ad...2025-05-1012 minPsychotic P***y PodcastThe Science Gap: Women's Invisibility in Medical and Safety StudiesSend us a textEver wondered why your office feels like an ice box while your male colleagues seem perfectly comfortable? Or why medications seem to affect you differently than advertised? The answer lies in a shocking reality: much of our world simply wasn't designed with women in mind.In this eye-opening episode, Bridget and Marissa dive deep into the gender data gap exposed in Caroline Criado-Perez's groundbreaking book "Invisible Women." What they uncover will leave you questioning everything from car safety to medical care. Did you know women are 73% more likely to be seriously...2025-04-1839 minPsychotic P***y PodcastAlone Together: The Paradox of Digital ConnectionSend us a textLoneliness has become a defining feature of modern life, with startling statistics showing that in-person socializing has plummeted by over 20% in the past two decades. Even more alarming? For unmarried men and those under 25, that decline exceeds 35%. We're diving into why this is happening and what it means for our collective mental health.The restaurant industry perfectly illustrates this shift—once-bustling bar areas now serve primarily as staging grounds for takeout orders. People have retreated into private spaces, finding comfort in isolation rather than community. Technology promises connection but delivers something fu...2025-04-1146 min
Free to Be Mindful PodcastMy Teen is Smoking Weed. Now What?Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"My daughter is 16 and is definitely smoking weed. What should I do?"Finding out your teen is using weed can bring on a wave of panic, anger, confusion—and guilt. Do you confront her? P...2025-04-0307 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastWhen You Feel Like You’re Failing as a ParentWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"What can I do when I feel like I’m failing as a parent?"The guilt, the overwhelm, the mental checklist of all the things that didn’t get done—and the ones you wish y...2025-03-2705 minPsychotic P***y PodcastBreaking the Silence: Women, Safety, and HealthSend us a textThe Season 3 premiere of Psychotic PY Podcast finds Bridget freshly returned to England with her six-month-old son, navigating the emotional complexities of international relocation during the postpartum period. She candidly shares her experience of loneliness despite having support available—a paradox many new mothers face when they become so accustomed to handling everything alone that they forget to reach out.What makes this reunion episode particularly powerful is the hosts' authentic examination of women's vulnerabilities, from the isolation of motherhood to the dangers of abusive relationships. Their discussion of the Gabby Pe...2025-03-2141 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 17: The Therapeutic Disclosure Process: A Path to Healing and TrustSend us a textHosted by John Sternfels, The Therapeutic Disclosure Process: A Path to Healing and Trust is a podcast dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of therapeutic disclosure after relational betrayal. As a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) and the owner of NorthPoint Professional Counseling Inc., John brings his expertise in marriage restoration, sexual addiction recovery, and partner betrayal trauma to help listeners understand the role of disclosure in the healing journey.Why is Therapeutic Disclosure Important?...2025-03-2131 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastMy Child Needs Therapy - But What Will My Family Think?Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"I really think my kid needs therapy, but I don't want to put up with family members thinking or saying he's crazy if I take him. Advice?"You know your child could benefit from...2025-03-2006 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastHandling Mom Guilt Without Losing YourselfWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How do I handle the guilt of missing important moments because of work and the feeling of overwhelm from being a working mom?"As a working mom, it’s easy to fee...2025-03-1307 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 16: SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural, or Biblical? Sex Across PerspectivesSend us a textSex. It’s everywhere—on our screens, in our culture, and shaping how we think about relationships, identity, and intimacy. But with so many competing voices—secular ideologies, cultural relativism, and biblical truth—how do we separate fact from fiction?In this eye-opening episode, counselor and author John Sternfels explores his upcoming book, SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural, or Biblical? He will tackle the tough questions:How has modern culture redefined sex, and what’s the impact on relationships?What messages are we absorbing—consciously or not—from secular and relativistic pe...2025-03-0728 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastBalancing Online Safety with IndependenceWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How do I protect my child from online dangers while still giving them independence?"Your child begs for more screen time. They want their own social media account and insist that...2025-03-0608 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 15: Codependency In MarriageSend us a textIn this episode, counselor and author, John Sternfels will dive into the complex and often misunderstood topic of codependency in marriage. Many couples struggle with unhealthy relational patterns where one partner becomes overly reliant on the other for emotional validation, self-worth, or decision-making. This imbalance can lead to resentment, anxiety, and a loss of individual identity.Join John as he will explore:✔️ What codependency looks like in a marriage✔️ How past wounds and childhood experiences can contribute to codependent behaviors✔️ Practical steps to establish healthy emotiona...2025-03-0232 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastHow to Make the Whining StopWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting, and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How can I handle my child constantly whining?"Whining - it’s like nails on a chalkboard for parents. Whether it’s the drawn-out “Moooooommm!” or the never-ending “But I don’t wannaaaa…,” it can be exhausting to deal...2025-02-2704 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastBig Feelings, Big Strategies: Helping Kids Manage EmotionsWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"What are some coping strategies I can teach my child for handling big feelings like anger, sadness, or frustration?"Big emotions can feel overwhelming for both kids and parents. When frustration, anger, or sadn...2025-02-2006 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 14: DOWNLOAD For Parents: Sex, Social Media, and SecretsSend us a textIn this episode, counselor and author, John Sternfels introduces his new book, "DOWNLOAD For Parents." DOWNLOAD is a crucial guide for today’s parents navigating the digital world with their children. Technology has transformed how our kids interact, learn, and socialize. Still, it has also introduced new challenges—exposure to harmful content, screen addiction, and online dangers that many parents feel unprepared to handle.DOWNLOAD For Parents is designed to equip parents and grandparents, with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their children from digital pitfalls while fostering open, hone...2025-02-1820 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastInstilling Confidence in Our GirlsWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions, offering practical advice to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting - and not lose your, well, you know…TODAY'S QUESTION:"What can I do to help my daughter be more confident?"In this episode, Vanessa shares practical ways to help your daughter develop unshakable confidence. From modeling self-assurance to encouraging effort over pe...2025-02-1304 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastFirst Time Listening: From Repeating to ResultsWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she dives into real-life parenting questions, offering practical advice to help you raise confident kids, nurture stronger connections, and find your calm in the chaos of parenting.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How can I get my child to listen without having to yell or repeat myself a thousand times?"In this episode, Vanessa shares strategies to help parents get their kids to listen the first...2025-02-0605 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastLoving on ALL our kidsWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you reduce the overwhelm, find joy, and live life intentionally so you don't lose your... well, you know.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How can I best support my child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community?"In this heartfelt episode, Vanessa addresses how parents can best support their children who identify with the LGBTQ+ community. With insights rooted in compassion, she...2025-01-2304 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastBenefits to Kids Having their own Email AddressWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she dives into real-life parenting questions, offering practical advice to help you raise confident kids, nurture stronger connections, and find your calm in the chaos of parenting.TODAY'S QUESTION:"What are the benefits of kids having their own email address?"In this episode, Vanessa explores the pros and cons of kids having their own email address and shares strategies to set them...2025-01-0903 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastHow to Set Up iPhone Parental ControlsEPISODE DESCRIPTION:Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you reduce the overwhelm, find joy, live life intentionally so you don't lose your... well you know...TODAY'S QUESTION:"My middle schooler got an iPhone for Christmas. What can I do to keep them safe?"In this episode, Vanessa provides a relatable and practical approach to managing your child’s new iPhone responsibly. Fr...2024-12-2608 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastHow Young is Too Young for a Phone?Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you reduce the overwhelm, find joy, live life intentionally so you don't lose your... well you know... TODAY'S QUESTION:"Is 7 too young to get my kid a phone?"In this episode, Vanessa dives into the age-old parenting dilemma of when to introduce phones to kids. With practical advice and relatable anecdotes, she explores factors like maturity, the purpose of the...2024-12-1907 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastTips to Teach Your Middle Schooler About Holiday BudgetingWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, tackles real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How can I get my middle schooler to understand budgeting and the cost of the holidays?"In this episode, Vanessa shares relatable and practical tips for teaching middle schoolers about budgeting during the holiday season. From starting with perspective to involving your child...2024-12-1207 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastManaging Tantrums During the Holidays Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.TODAY'S QUESTION: "How do I handle my 7-year-old's tantrums or meltdowns at holiday gatherings?"In this episode, Vanessa provides practical strategies for managing the challenges of tantrums and meltdowns during busy holiday gatherings. From preparation to de-escalation techniques, she shares tips to help parents navigate these tricky moments with c...2024-12-0605 minPsychotic P***y PodcastEmpowering Births: Unveiling the Doula's Role in Pregnancy and PostpartumSend us a textMeet Hollie Fallon and Christine Stapleton from Om Mamas Doulas, who join us to unravel the mystery and magic behind being a doula. With Hollie's expertise as a licensed massage therapist and Christine's specialized knowledge in placenta encapsulation, you’ll gain insights into how these amazing doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support throughout the rollercoaster journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Not medical professionals, but undeniably vital, they guide parents through the maze of childbirth myths and realities, like the misconception that labor always starts dramatically with water breaking.Tune in...2024-12-0257 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Helping Kids Socialize with FamilyEPISODE DESCRIPTION:Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How can I help my kid interact with extended family they don’t see often during the holidays?"Holiday gatherings can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for kids who aren’t used to being around extended family. In this episode, Vanessa shar...2024-11-2806 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: How to Help Your Child Become More GratefulWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.TODAY'S QUESTION:"How can you make your kid become more grateful?"In this episode, Vanessa shares practical, thoughtful strategies for teaching children the value of gratitude. From simple ways to introduce the concept to creating daily gratitude routines, she highlights tips that help kids recognize and appreciate the positives...2024-11-2105 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Forcing Kids to Give HugsEpisode Description: Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions to help you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.Today’s Question:"We’re seeing family for Thanksgiving who are very touchy-feely and like to kiss and hug. My child does not like this. Should I force her to say hello?"In this episode, Vanessa tackles a question that many parents, especially thos...2024-11-1604 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Kids and Lying Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, tackles real-life parenting-related questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.Today’s Question:"How should I address my child’s lying or dishonest behavior?"In this episode, Vanessa explores the tricky topic of lying in children and teens. She breaks down the developmental reasons behind dishonesty at different ages, helping parents understand why young kids and teens might lie and h...2024-11-0706 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Teens and DrinkingWelcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, tackles real-life parenting-related questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.Today’s Question:"I caught my kid and his teen friends drinking. What is the best way to handle this?"In this episode, Vanessa shares an honest, compassionate approach to handling the tough situation of finding your teen drinking. Reflecting on our own experiences, she emphasizes staying ca...2024-10-3107 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Moody or Depressed?The Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions so that you can be present and at ease with your child, and live life mindfully. TODAY’S QUESTION:How can I tell if my teen's moodiness is normal? Or if they’re depressed?Send us a textSend us a text120 COPING SKILLShttps://www.freetobemindful.com/p...2024-10-2408 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Supporting Kids with ADHDThe Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions so that you can be present and at ease with your child, and live life mindfully. TODAY’S QUESTION:My kid has been diagnosed with ADHD. How can I support him at home? REFERENCED EPISODES:I think my kid may have ADHD, what do I do? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0w6dO5L...2024-10-1707 minPsychotic P***y PodcastNavigating Nut Allergies: Parenting Challenges and Societal AdaptabilitySend us a textWhat happens when a school decides to go nut-free, sparking a heated debate in Barnegat, New Jersey? Join us as we navigate the turbulent waters of modern parenting, celebrating the adorable one-month milestone of our little co-host, Theo, while tackling the anxieties that come with raising children in today’s world. As a doctor and therapist, we confront the serious misconceptions about allergies, emphasizing the vital need to prioritize children's health and safety over mere convenience. Exploring the rise of nut allergies since the late 1990s, we pull back the curtain on...2024-10-1137 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: What to Do if You Suspect a Learning DisabilityThe Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions so that you can be present and at ease with your child, and live life mindfully. TODAY’S QUESTION:What should I do if my child has a learning disability?Send us a text120 COPING SKILLShttps://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskillsCULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGEhttps://www...2024-10-1006 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Strategies for Navigating BullyingThe Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions to help moms reduce the overwhelm, find joy and live life intentionally.TODAY’S QUESTION:What should I do if my child is being bullied in school?REFERENCED LINK: Confessions of a Former Bully SEL Book Reviewhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NT07B3R0eFg Send us a text1...2024-10-0309 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Motivating the Unmotivated KidSHOWNOTES: The Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions to help moms reduce the overwhelm, find joy and live life intentionally.TODAY’S QUESTION:My kid doesn't want to join any extracurricular activities and just wants to be home on the computer. What can I do to help?Send us a text120 COPING SKILLShtt...2024-09-2608 minPsychotic P***y PodcastLaughing Through Labor: From Squats to Sore NipplesSend us a textWhat happens when your water breaks mid-squat at the gym? Bridget tells all in this heartwarming and hilarious episode of the Psychotic Py Podcast! Join us as she recounts the thrilling story of her son Theodore James’s timely arrival and the mad dash to the hospital that followed. From her pre-labor jogs and gym sessions to the chaotic yet comical moments leading up to Theo’s birth, Bridget shares her journey with humor and honesty. You'll also get a peek into the emotional rollercoaster of labor, the amazing support from her midwife and...2024-09-2033 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Overachieving Middle SchoolerThe Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions to help moms reduce the overwhelm, find joy and live life intentionally.TODAY’S QUESTION:My middle schooler wants to join so many clubs this year! Any tips?Send us a text120 COPING SKILLShttps://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskillsCULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGEhttps://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge...2024-09-1910 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Fighting Over Screen TimeThe Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions to help moms reduce the overwhelm, find joy and live life intentionally.TODAY'S QUESTION:School has started and we're already fighting about screen time. Help! Send us a text120 COPING SKILLShttps://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskillsCULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGEhttps://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 P...2024-09-1207 min
Wisconsin Wellness30 | Raising Resilient Kids in a Digital World: A Conversation with Lauri Budzynski MA, LPC, NCCShoreside Therapies:
Book afree 15-minute consultation online and get into mental health therapy within a week!
In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast,Lauri Budzynski MA, LPC, NCC, a child specialist from Shoreside Therapies, joinsLaurie Grohto discuss Jonathan Haidt's book 'The Anxious Generation.' The podcast delves into the effects of smartphones on Gen Z, highlighting the increase in anxiety, self-harm, and communication issues among young people since the proliferation of smartphones in 2010. They emphasize the importance of play, face-to-face interactions, and setting boundaries on phone usage to foster mental health and social development. They also t...2024-09-0632 minPsychotic P***y PodcastBreaking Barriers: Confronting Gender Bias Across ProfessionsSend us a textCan gender discrimination still be such a pervasive issue despite being outlawed since 1964? This episode takes a deep dive into the ongoing struggles women face in the workplace, from pay gaps and microaggressions to sexual harassment. Join us as we unravel a 2023 meta-analysis that reveals a staggering 50% of women have experienced sexual harassment at work. We expose the harsh realities in male-dominated fields like construction and policing, where outdated stereotypes wrongly paint women as too emotional for the job, overlooking their undeniable resilience and strength.Shifting to the medical field, we...2024-09-0647 minFree to Be Mindful PodcastConsult a Counselor: Managing Back to School AnxietyThe Consult a Counselor Series is a subset of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where host and therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC answers parenting related questions to help moms reduce the overwhelm, find joy and live life intentionally.TODAY'S QUESTION IS:The new school year is about to start. How can I help my child manage her anxiety?READ THE BLOG:Helping Your Child Manage Back-to-School Anxiety: Practical Tips for Parentshttps://www.freetobemindful.com/helping-your-child-manage-back-to-school-anxiety-practical-tips-for-parentsSend us a text2024-09-0507 minPsychotic P***y PodcastBeyond the Screen: The Real-World Effects of Online BullyingSend us a textWhat if the world’s most celebrated athletes were being unfairly targeted because of misunderstandings? Today, we tackle the controversy surrounding Algerian boxer Imani Khalif, who clinched Olympic gold amid false accusations by public figures like JK Rowling, Trump, and Elon Musk. Join us as we set the record straight about Khalif's gender and dive into the complex issues of natural genetic advantages in sports. We also discuss the critical need for responsible social media behavior, particularly by influential individuals, and the profound effects their baseless claims have on real people's lives.2024-08-3030 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 13: Behind The SmileSend us a textBehind The Smile by John Sternfels and Melissa Roberts is a real-life story of how one of John's clients, Melissa Roberts, overcame the horrors of being abused, traumatized, and sexually betrayed. As a result, Melissa experienced many psychological complexities, often behind a facade of happiness.The book is designed to offer readers a deeper understanding of the disconnect between the external image people project and their internal realities. Sternfels and Roberts guide readers on a journey to uncover the truth behind their own smiles, encouraging them to c...2024-08-1819 minPsychotic P***y PodcastFirst-Time Moms, Hospital Bags, and Modern ParentingSend us a textReady for an adventure-filled reunion? Join Marissa and Bridget as they recount the highs and lows of their recent travels and delve into the art of preparing for childbirth. From a turbulent flight from Manchester to JFK that tested Bridget's patience to the nuances of traveling while pregnant, this episode kicks off with a bang. Curious about inducing labor naturally? We've got you covered with insights on feet reflexology, the "seduction induction" technique, and other effective methods. Bridget, drawing from her expertise as an obstetrician, shares invaluable advice while reflecting on her own...2024-08-1639 minPsychotic P***y PodcastBalancing Baby's Needs and Mom's Mental HealthSend us a textBreastfeeding offers an astonishing array of health benefits, but why does it often come with emotional and physical hurdles? Join us as we unpack the dualities of breastfeeding, from immunity boosts for your baby to the psychological tolls on moms. We're here to challenge the societal expectation of exclusive breastfeeding for four months, showing that maternal mental health is just as crucial. Through candid personal stories, we reveal how struggles like low milk production can lead to feelings of guilt and worthlessness, and why the mantra "fed is best" holds value....2024-07-2638 minPsychotic P***y PodcastUnseen Scars: Confronting Sexual Violence and Championing HealingSend us a textWhat if the wounds we cannot see are the most debilitating? This episode dives deep into the pervasive and destructive impacts of sexual violence on women's physical, reproductive, and psychological health. We unpack the critical role healthcare providers play in recognizing these traumas and providing comprehensive care, emphasizing the need for mental health support to foster healing and recovery. Imagine a college experience marred by fear and injustice. We confront the harrowing realities of sexual misconduct on campuses, dissecting high-profile cases like Brock Turner and Emma Sulkowicz's protest at Columbia University...2024-07-1255 minPsychotic P***y PodcastBehind Closed Doors: Domestic Violence and the Changing Landscape of Divorce LawsSend us a textNavigating the sensitive terrain of domestic violence intersecting with pregnancy and motherhood is no easy task. Imagine being a healthcare professional grappling with infertility while surrounded by the constant reminders of pregnancy at your workplace. This week's episode begins with a listener's heartfelt story that captures this emotional struggle, setting the stage for a broader discussion on the unique anxieties faced by healthcare professionals during their own pregnancies. We highlight how social media can both alleviate and exacerbate these anxieties, emphasizing the importance of filtering content to maintain a positive mindset....2024-07-0548 minPsychotic P***y PodcastSilent Struggles: Infertility's Impact on Friendship and Life's MilestonesSend us a textEver wondered how to navigate the tricky waters of friendships when life takes you down different paths? This episode promises to equip you with the skills and empathy needed to maintain strong bonds even when faced with challenges like infertility, parenthood, and shifting social dynamics. Join us, two sisters—one a mental health therapist and the other an obstetrician-gynecologist—as we kick off season two with fresh insights and heartfelt discussions.You'll laugh and learn with our new segment, "Tough Love with Gerbear," featuring our blunt, but loving mother, who answers list...2024-06-2846 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 12: Children and Gender Identity CrisisSend us a textIn this podcast, counselor and author, John Sternfels examines the complexities of gender identity and gender dysphoria in children and adolescents. John discusses from a Christian perspective, how to discuss this complex topic with children in a sensitive and informed manner.Talking to children who struggle with gender identity and gender dysphoria challenges requires sensitivity, openness, and support. By approaching the conversation with empathy, respect, and a willingness to understand, parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children through their gender identity journey. ...2024-06-0826 minPsychotic P***y PodcastRedefining Reproductive Rights: Emotional and Legal ChallengesSend us a textWhat if the laws governing medication could directly impact miscarriage treatment? This episode tackles the serious implications of a new Louisiana law that classifies abortion-inducing medications like misoprostol and mifepristone as controlled substances. We explore how this classification misstep could affect essential medical care and discuss the broader emotional and societal reactions to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, comparing the different responses from both sides of the Atlantic.Join us as Bridget shares her personal journey through pregnancy, including a recent health scare that made her miss an episode. This...2024-06-0741 minNorthPoint Counseling PerspectiveEpisode 11: A Comprehensive Examination of Mental HealthSend us a textA Comprehensive Examination of Mental HealthIntroductionCounselor and author, John Sternfels, discusses the importance of mental health. Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and act. It affects daily functioning, relationships, and physical health. Mental health is not merely the absence of mental illness but also involves the presence of positive characteristics such as resilience, self-esteem, and the ability to manage stress.Historical ContextHistorically, mental health has been misunderstood and stigmatized. Early civilizations often attributed m...2024-05-2741 minPsychotic P***y PodcastChallenging Gender Norms: From Commencement Speeches to Household HarmonySend us a textYou might think a commencement speech is just another run-of-the-mill event, but not when controversial comments about gender roles by NFL player Harrison Butker take center stage. We dissect the outdated views presented at Benedictine College's graduation, challenging the notion that women's ultimate goal should be marriage and motherhood at the expense of their professional aspirations. We're here to put the spotlight on respecting women's diverse paths to fulfillment and the critical need for self-reliance. So, if you've ever found yourself frustrated with gendered expectations, you're in the right place.Let's...2024-05-2455 minPsychotic P***y PodcastMenopause Unmasked: A Guide to Empowerment and CommunitySend us a textNavigating the twists and turns of menopause can feel like a solo journey, but it doesn't have to be. Bridget and Marissa join us to shine a light on the hurdles and hopes that accompany this pivotal life stage. With their guidance, we discuss not just the hot flashes and hormonal shifts, but also the heartening truths about seeking medical advice, staying connected, and finding strength within ourselves. Their insights promise to quell fears and foster empowerment, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to understand and embrace the transition with a...2024-05-1728 min