Family Therapy, The Podcast

Elijah captures his push and pull between craving praise, guarding against rejection, and wanting both connection and independence through a poem. Elliott explains how art can function as therapy—an outlet for emotions we can’t always say out loud, and invites listeners to think about their own safe place to put their feelings.  In the session, Elijah talks about how insecurity can make him vulnerable to controlling or demeaning “tough love,” and how that affects the power dynamics in his relationships. He shares that he often presents a more stoic public persona, even though he wants to feel more peaceful and authentic, and he’s trying to create a space where he doesn’t have to hide those softer parts of himself. Elliott challenges Elijah to build self-esteem around what he can control instead of outside feedback. Elijah decides to attach his confidence to effort, discipline, and creativity: writing, reading, drawing, cooking, and building projects, rather than whether other people notice or validate him. The episode ends with a reminder that anxiety grows when self-worth depends on variables we can’t control, and that small daily habits can move you closer to being your authentic self. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Elijah shares his experiences after returning home and navigating the dynamics at home. The conversation explores challenges like anxiety in family interactions, the importance of honesty, and the quest for self-expression through writing and cooking. Elijah discusses how setting boundaries and being assertive without anger can lead to personal growth and a sense of stability. The session highlights the difference between acting out of expectation versus personal choice, urging listeners to prioritize their mental health and authentic selves. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore a poignant moment between sisters Jasmine and Gladys as Jasmine undertakes a significant move to Georgia, both geographically and emotionally. This conversation illuminates the challenges and rewards of choosing one's own well-being, dealing with grief, embracing support, and growing in unfamiliar spaces. Gladys shares her insights as the supportive big sister, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and self-compassion. As Jasmine navigates this new chapter, she reflects on the complexities of longing for familiarity while striving for peace and growth. The session offers relatable insights into the human experience of change, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to rebuild one's life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore the evolving relationship between Elijah and his Uncle Chris. The session begins with both sharing their hopes for building trust and understanding each other better. Chris expresses a desire to unify the family and become a key connector, while Elijah admits to uncertainty but shows openness to understanding. Despite a technical issue causing Elijah to drop off, Chris continues to discuss his plans for reconnecting the family through consistent communication and leadership, inspired by traditional family roles like 'Big Mama.' The episode highlights the importance of ongoing commitment, small consistent actions, and the willingness to take responsibility in family relationships. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Jasmine, Elijah, and Gladys discuss the importance of open communication within families to truly understand each other without blame or silencing.  Elijah raises profound questions about love and its complexity in familial interactions. The discussion moves towards how to maintain transparency and understand historical family trauma without taking things personally. The group also explores the idea of speaking their truth with care, even when responses might be offensive or triggering. This leads to a deeper understanding of boundaries and healthy love. The conversation serves as a reminder that real growth and healing come from aligning one's communication with their true self, and centers around balancing honesty with compassion. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHO IS CHRIS? From being separated at a young age after his mother's tragic death to the struggles of growing up in foster care, Chris opens up about his life experiences and the importance of therapy in his healing process. Chris expresses how understanding his siblings' perspectives could transform his relationships and help him become a better father and grandfather. He emphasizes the value of truth, acceptance, and passing down positive life lessons to future generations. Keep listening to learn more about Chris's journey and gain inspiration from his pursuit of inner peace and happiness. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHO IS GLADYS? In this session of Family Therapy, Elliott Connie works with Gladys, who shares her emotional struggle and hopes to mend her relationship with her son, Elijah. After court battles, misunderstandings, and a damaging altercation, both mother and son have experienced significant pain and distance. Despite these challenges, there remains an unbroken bond, exemplified when Elijah reached out to his mother during a moment of deep despair. The therapy session aims to help Gladys reconnect with Elijah by focusing on the present and letting go of past anger and resentment. Elliott encourages Gladys to get to know her son as he is today, as this could pave the way for healing. The session closes with a powerful message about the importance of choosing healing and creating a space for connection, urging listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the emotions that may be hindering them. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Family Therapy! Before we dive into the sessions with this Season's family, we catch up with last season's family—Jay, David, and Freddy—to see how they've been progressing. During their last sessions, we tackled issues concerning lack of confidence, adjusting to co-parenting, and personal growth. Today, we hear about David's journey back to faith with his baptism and his new role supporting special education students. Jay shares her commitment to a healthier lifestyle and her pride in her children's achievements. Both express a strong desire to move forward by living separately, emphasizing the need for personal peace and better co-parenting. Elliott encourages them to replace resentment with appreciation to create a better environment for their kids, even before they transition to separate living spaces. It's a heartfelt check-in that underscores their continuous effort and the slow, steady progress they are making. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your FamilySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this bonus episode of Family Therapy, host Elliott Connie guides listeners through a series of questions to help them adopt a new way of thinking and create the life they want. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the things in life that are improving and shifting from asking unproductive questions to asking useful ones. Connie shares examples of how asking positive 'what if' questions can lead to action and increased hope. He also discusses the significance of being outcome-led, making small intentional changes, and discovering one's purpose. The episode encourages listeners to pay attention to the positive shifts in their lives. Thank you for listening to Season One of Family Therapy.  Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The conversation covers two main themes: the impact of police violence on the Black community and the importance of breaking generational trauma within a family. Elliott's opening statement focuses on the traumatic experiences of witnessing police brutality and the fear and trauma it instills in the Black community. The second theme explores the desire to heal and reconnect within a family that has been plagued by generational trauma, estrangement, and inconsistency. This week's session highlights Jay and Freddie and the importance of forgiveness, understanding, and building strong family bonds for future generations. Freddie shares his journey of personal transformation and how he found strength through faith. They discuss the challenges of breaking generational trauma and the importance of recognizing and embracing change. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your LifeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's episode begins with thoughts on the importance of mental health in BIPOC communities and how the current political climate affects mental health. The fear and anxiety caused by political changes and the rollback of rights are highlighted. The conversation then transitions to a therapy session with Jay and David, where they discuss the future of their relationship. They explore topics such as their shared vision, co-parenting, and the possibility of marriage. The importance of being mission-driven and having clear goals is emphasized. Jay and David explore the idea of marriage and how it would change their dynamic. Jay expresses her desire for David to show her that he is serious about their future together, while David acknowledges the need for behavior changes and stability. The episode ends with Elliott expounding on how solution-brief therapy affects brain chemistry and the importance of recognizing patterns and making intentional changes. Join Us Live for BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month! Celebrate BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month with us! On Wednesday, July 17th, Elliott Connie will host a special live event on The Black Effect’s Instagram, featuring guided conversations on mental health within BIPOC communities. To participate, send a DM to @BlackEffect to confirm your spot. Don’t miss this chance to experience therapy in a new way! Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your LifeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode explores the importance of men expressing their emotions and the need for safe spaces to do so. It also delves into the four different styles of attachment and how they impact adult relationships. This week’s session highlights a heartfelt discussion with Jay and Freddie that includes the impact of drug addiction and the importance of grace and accountability. It’s a beautiful conversation of forgiveness, understanding, and learning new things about one another. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life Upcoming Event: SFBT 2-Day Intensive Live Training – 2024 Anaheim, CaliforniaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.