In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler talks with Dr. Andrew Finch, delving into the complexities of substance recovery for youth. They discuss the unique challenges young people face with substance use and highlight the shortcomings of support services during recovery. Dr. Finch sheds light on the concept of recovery high schools and advocacy efforts that have spurred their growth, offering valuable insights for counselors to enhance their support for young individuals and emerging adults...

Dominique S. Hammonds and Lucy L. Purgason describe holistic admissions in counselor education; a process that allows programs to determine if applicants have the capacity to be practitioners, not just successfully engage graduate study, which traditional admissions typically accomplishes. They walk us through the process of faculty establishing what a good counselor in their community looks like to how to structure interviews.    For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA...

In this podcast, we are going to explore intersectionality through a different lens. We are going to explore the, at times, taboo subject of intra-racism in African American culture and its possible impact on clients. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing &...

In this episode, we examine the experiences of Dr. Christopher Townsend.  Dr. Townsend takes us on a journey through advocacy and the courage to speak out against cultural injustice.  Dr. Townsend has co authored Senate bills to repair laws that impact vulnerable clients.  He shares his journey towards the state capitol and how he arrived at his own identity as a Social Justice Counselor and Educator. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode...

In this episode, Dr. Mickey White talks with Khia Hudgins-Smith, a Diversity-Focused Clinical Counselor who works with and on behalf of marginalized college students at her university’s student counseling center. Khia shares their experiences supporting diverse college students, how college counseling centers can address the impact of systemic discrimination on student well-being, and why it’s more important than ever to engage as a professional counselor in advocacy work.   For more on our...

The POCPC brings psychedelic education to people of color. The organization creates spaces for people of color to learn about the harms of the war on drugs and the healing properties of psychedelics. Co-host Desa chats with Ifetayo Harvey about the formation of the organization, the growing use of psychedelics, and how communities can educate themselves about psychedelics. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit ...

In this empowering episode, Jessica Tyler engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ashley Hampton, the Co-founder and Clinical Director of Hampton House Counseling, a groundbreaking QPOC group private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. Ashley is also the Executive Director of Healing in the Margins. This non-profit organization drives systemic transformation and fosters recovery through tailored mental health resources for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. Ashley shares her unwavering commitment...

In this episode, Dr. Megan Speciale interviews Jamila Dawson, LMFT and Theodore Burnes, PhD on sex worker-affirming mental healthcare, the topic of their new book, “Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers.” The authors discuss common issues faced by individuals involved in the sex industry, the impact of stigma and whorephobia on the mental and emotional well-being of sex workers, and the clinical priorities of sex worker-affirming counseling centered on sex-positivity and intersectionality. ...

There are many counselors who are considering going back to school to get their PhD but are unsure what this process looks like. In this episode, Helen Jennings-Hood discusses her personal journey and insights that can help others if they are considering starting a doctorate program in Counselor Education and Supervision.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  ...

In this episode, Dr. Mickey White talks with Dr. Stacey Williams to discuss her research and experiences with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We discuss what PCOS is and how PCOS impacts mental health, stigma, and resiliency across gender.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s...

Dr. Andy Choi shares his journey from his graduate education to his current role as a licensed psychologist. Andy shares how scholars, mentors, friends, and family influence his work today.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies....

In this episode, join Dr. Jessica Tyler in an enlightening conversation on maternal mental health with Kellie Wicklund, psychotherapist and Clinical Director of the Maternal Wellness Center. Kellie delves into her 20-year career, spotlighting her dedication to perinatal mental health and helping clients navigate the complexities of parenthood. Unpacking the layers of reproductive health psychology, Kellie shares insights into her therapeutic approach. She emphasizes the importance of seeing...

In our last episode of the series "Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens," Dr. J. Kelly Coker shares her work exploring middle adulthood development. She dives into topics that are not often discussed in public or the literature, including psychological, emotional, and physical changes that adults experience as they age. Dr. Coker tackles empty nesters, menopause, the sandwich generation, and more changes that adults experience as they age.   For more on our guests, links from the...

In this episode, Dr. Asha Dickerson will discuss her journey as an African American women who has held several leadership roles in counseling.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast   The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Drs. Derek X Seward and Megan Speciale sit down for a compelling interview with Dr. Carlos Hipolito-Delgado as he shares his personal journey into counseling leadership and professional advocacy. Throughout this episode, Carlos offers invaluable insights on navigating counseling organizational structures, developing equity-focused approaches to leadership, and exploring the intersection of identity, leadership, and transformative change.   For more on our guests, links from the...

In this episode, Natasha Villalobos discusses her experience working with clients who identify with neurodivergent. She provides a multicultural lens on how to work with this population in an affirming, nonpathological way. Natasha describes how the movement towards more affirmative care for this population can increase connection while remaining person centered.   For more on Natasha, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit ...

In this episode, Drs. Ana Guadalupe Reyes (they/elle) and Mónica Rodríguez Delgado (she/ella) share their experiences working with and on behalf of queer womxn of color in counseling. They discuss the importance of attending to the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality with queer womxn of color, as well as navigating sharing such nuanced lived experiences with their clients. Drs. Reyes and Rodríguez Delgado discuss bridging the gap between traditional counselor education and healing...

In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons meets with Dr. Dèsa Karye Daniel to discuss the tenants of Racial Battle Fatigue. Throughout their conversation, they reflect on the experiences of Black Teachers and how sharing these experiences can change the narrative for future Black educators. Dr. Lyons gives examples of how mental health practitioners can support Black educators through culturally responsive practices.   For more on Asia, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode...

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler sits with Christine Banks-Van Allen to discuss the intersection between mental health diagnosis and social justice. We explore the real-life impact of diagnoses on individuals from marginalized communities, share stories highlighting the importance of cultural understanding, and uncover ways to advocate for change within our role as counselors. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that challenges conventional thinking and opens up possibilities for a more...

In the fourth episode in our series on cultural and contextual approaches to lifespan development, Dr. Savitri Dixon-Saxon shares her expertise on the development of adults. She discusses emerging adulthood and late adulthood, challenging the way we think about aging. Dr. Dixon-Saxon talks about the biases that counselors may have about older adults and advocates for stronger education to prepare counselors to work with older adults. For more on Savitri, links from the conversation, and APA...

In this episode, Dr. James Norris discusses how he utilizes hip hop music in his counseling practice to encourage authentic communication with clients. He gives practical suggestions on how to incorporate hip hop with clients who are drawn to this genre of music. For more on James, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast   The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto...

In this episode, Drs. Romero, Interiano-Shiverdecker, and Prasath discuss their research lab and scholarly contributions to the topic of sex trafficking. They outline research findings and how they developed the CAST Lab. Implications for counselors, researchers, and educators are discussed.   For more on Devon, Claudia, & Priscilla, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The...

Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) are an increasingly popular modality of therapy, especially among adolescents and young adults. One popular TTRPG is Dungeons and Dragons, a fantastical adventuring game that can address themes of connection, confidence, and self-exploration. In this episode, Julia Stamman shares her experiences as a Game Counselor facilitating virtual D&D therapy groups and provides some tips and tools for counselors who may be interested in running their own...

Join Dr. Dèsa Daniel and Dr. James García as they discuss health disparities in LGBTQ+ communities of color, and how mental health providers can advocate for better care and services. They also talk about their work with students, mentorship, and the importance of HIV PrEP medication. Tune in to learn more about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals seeking affirming care, and what can be done to address these issues.   For more on James, links from the conversation, and APA citation...