Just for Today Podcast

What if a single therapy session could resolve a trauma you've carried for years? In this episode, Adriana sits down with Dina and Julie — two licensed EMDR therapists with over 40 years of combined experience and the team behind EMDR Transformations Counseling in Gilbert, Arizona — to demystify one of the most talked-about and misunderstood trauma treatments out there.They break down what EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) actually is, why trauma gets "stuck" in the brain and body, and how bilateral stimulation helps the logical and emotional sides of the brain finally process what happened — without hypnosis, and while you stay fully awake and in control. They get into why EMDR can work dramatically faster than traditional talk therapy, what it can treat (single-incident trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, phobias, addiction, and more), and what a session actually looks like, including virtual EMDR done from your own home.They also discuss a newer clinical offering in their practice: ketamine-assisted EMDR therapy — what it is and how it's used in a supervised, prescribed setting as part of professional treatment. This portion is educational only and is not medical advice or a recommendation; decisions about any medication or treatment should be made with a licensed medical provider.Plus, a simple grounding technique you can use the next time you feel overwhelmed.Whether you're trauma-curious, considering therapy, or just want to understand how healing actually works in the brain, this conversation makes it click.⸻⚠️ Content & medical disclaimer: This episode discusses trauma, abuse, addiction, and mental health treatment, including ketamine-assisted therapy in a clinical context. It is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not an endorsement or promotion of any medication or treatment. Always consult a licensed medical or mental health professional about your own care.💛 Mental health support: • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org (free, confidential, 24/7, US) • SAMHSA National Helpline (free, confidential treatment referrals) — 1-800-662-4357 • Find a licensed EMDR therapist — emdria.org Outside the US? Find your local helpline at findahelpline.com.⸻About the guests Dina and Julie are licensed EMDR therapists and the team behind EMDR Transformations Counseling, LLC in Gilbert, AZ, specializing in EMDR therapy. Follow them: @emdrinaz · emdrtransformationscounseling.comFollow Just for Today: [@justfortodaypodcast] Host: Adriana Sansam [@adrianasansam]New episodes every [day]. If these conversations help you, please like, share, and subscribe — and don't forget: just for today, keep going. 💛

In this raw and unforgettable episode of the Just For Today Podcast, host Adriana Sansam sits down with Kelle Bott for one of the most emotional conversations of the season — a story of grief, alcohol addiction, recovery, and a mother's love that defies words.Kelle was just 18 when she lost her father, Jared, after he was hospitalized with pneumonia and put on a ventilator. She shares the harrowing details of being by his side as her family made the impossible decision to let him go — and how the day she felt his last breath, a piece of her "died with him."What followed was a two-year battle with alcohol addiction that nearly killed her. Kelle opens up with zero filter about drinking to numb her grief, life-threatening alcohol withdrawals, being wrongly discharged from treatment, hitting rock bottom, and the moment she finally surrendered and checked into detox and residential treatment at 20 years old. She explains the difference between numbing pain and actually grieving, why she calls herself "clean" rather than an addict, and how she learned to grieve experiences she'll never get back.In the second half, Kelle bravely shares her adoption journey — discovering she was pregnant just before one year clean, choosing to place her son for adoption, and finding the family that felt "meant to be." She named her baby after her late father, and the open adoption she describes is a heartbreaking, beautiful testament to selfless love.This episode covers:Losing a parent young and anticipatory vs. sudden griefHow unresolved grief can lead to alcohol addictionWhat alcohol withdrawal and detox are really like (and why they can be deadly)The road through residential treatment, surrender, and self-forgivenessBreaking the stigma around addiction: "Why don't they just stop?"Choosing open adoption and parenting from a place of loveFinding hope at the lowest of lowsWhether you're navigating grief, supporting a loved one through addiction, in recovery yourself, or considering adoption, Kelle's story is a powerful reminder that the dark days end — and that "everything happens for you, not to you."🎙️ Hosted by @AdrianaSansamCONNECT WITH US: ► TikTok: justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@justfortoday-podcastIf you want to continue to be part of these conversations, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe — and remember, just for today, keep going.⚠️ Content Disclaimer: This episode discusses topics that may be sensitive or triggering for some listeners, including addiction, substance abuse, death, mental health struggles, and trauma. The stories shared are personal experiences intended for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute professional advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional counseling or treatment. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, help is available through SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-988 (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

In this episode, Adriana sits down with Marilyn, a nurse she met during her time at a ketamine clinic.Marilyn shares her deeply raw and ongoing journey of healing from profound childhood trauma, which included domestic violence and sexual abuse. She opens up about the struggles of her early life, fleeing across the country to escape her abusive father, and later falling into a highly controlling religion that eventually kicked her out.This conversation dives into the realities of living with complex PTSD and battling suicidal ideation. Marilyn bravely recounts her suicide attempts and the miraculous moment a microdose of mushrooms stopped her from taking her own life. She also discusses how ketamine therapy ultimately cured her suicidal thoughts and shifted her entire worldview.Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

In this episode of the Just For Today podcast, Adriana sits down with Dr. Storage, a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, to explore the deep connections between grief, trauma, and addiction. Adriana shares her personal journey of navigating the loss of her husband Eric and raising three young, grieving children. Dr. Storage explains that mental health is physical brain health, breaking down how emotionally traumatic experiences can literally alter blood flow and activity in the brain.This conversation dives deep into:- The reality that trauma gets locked into the brain at the specific developmental age at which it occurred.- Why children often experience and display grief as behavioral changes, anger, or developmental regression rather than just sadness.- The science behind addiction, explaining how substances hijack the brain's dopamine system, causing individuals to chase a feeling of normalcy rather than a high.- Why treating addiction requires addressing underlying root causes, such as unprocessed trauma or untreated ADHD.- Practical parenting advice for helping grieving or frustrated children, emphasizing the concept of connection over correction.- Three foundational pillars for protecting and healing your brain: sleep, exercise, and nutrition.Connect with Dr. Steven Storage► Instagram: @drstevenstorageConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

In this deeply emotional episode of Just for Today, Lindsey shares the story of losing her 17-year-old son Alex to a fentanyl overdose. She opens up about who he was beyond addiction, how his struggles began, the devastating progression that changed their family forever, and what it means to live with unimaginable grief. This conversation is raw, honest, and heartbreaking, touching on addiction, loss, trauma, parenting, and the painful reality of loving someone through crisis. Content warning: This episode contains discussion of addiction, overdose, grief, trauma, child loss, and substance use. Listener discretion is advised. Connect with Lindsey► Instagram: @freedomsoulsoldierConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

In this raw, no-filter conversation, Adriana sits down with Alexa as she shares what it was like to love someone whose alcohol and drug use escalated into violence, fear, and long-lasting trauma. Alexa opens up about the moments that changed everything, the shame that can keep you stuck, and why “just leave” is never that simple. Alexa also talks about her PTSD diagnosis, navigating triggers, therapy and EMDR, and the decision to stop drinking as part of reclaiming her life and sense of safety. From learning boundaries to rebuilding trust, this episode is about what healing actually looks like when your nervous system has been in survival mode for years. Finally, Alexa shares how her experiences shaped her work with at-risk teens in the weight room, why consistency can change a kid’s life, and how grief and responsibility collide when you’re trying to be a steady adult for students who’ve lived through too much too soon. Content warning: domestic violence, substance abuse, trauma/PTSD, grief. Connect with Alexa► Instagram: @crossfitlexConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

Welcome back to the Just for Today podcast. After a four-month break from the studio, I’m checking in to share a much-needed life update. This episode is a raw look at the challenges of the recent holiday season my third without Eric and the unexpected ways grief continues to show up as the kids get older. From Jackson starting sports and reaching the milestones Eric always dreamed of, to Riley beginning to ask the "hard questions" about her dad, we’re navigating new developmental stages of loss every day. I also dive into the beautiful, messy reality of our blended family. While combining five different lives under one roof has been one of the hardest things I’ve done, seeing the bond grow between the kids especially during Jackson’s first night at our grief group reminds me why the effort is so rewarding.⚠️ TRIGGER WARNINGThis conversation contains mature themes about death, grief, addiction, overdose, and trauma. Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

In this powerful episode, Lyndsey Hackford shares her candid story of surviving domestic abuse, her struggles growing up in a strict religious family, and her inspiring journey toward freedom and healing. With raw honesty, Lyndsey and Adriana Sansam dive into cycles of emotional and physical abuse, the challenges of leaving, and redefining self-worth beyond trauma. This conversation offers hope and clarity to anyone feeling trapped by their circumstances, with hard-won advice for those rebuilding their lives after abuse.Connect with Lyndsey► Instagram: @lyndseyh6723 Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

In a raw and unflinching conversation, Morgan sits down with Adriana to share her story of becoming a widow at 29. She recounts her "damn near perfect" marriage to Thomas, the terrifying 72-hour spiral from a simple flu diagnosis to an ICU goodbye, and the moment she had to find the words to explain the unimaginable to her young daughters. This episode is a powerful look at sudden loss, solo parenting, and the strength it takes to navigate the immediate aftermath of tragedy.⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of sudden death and medical trauma. But it also contains hope, healing, and proof that love transcends death.Connect with Morgan► Instagram: @widowinbloomConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

Grief has a hierarchy that nobody talks about, and siblings are often left at the bottom. In this deeply emotional conversation, Adriana sits down with her friend Carina, who lost her 23-year-old brother Nick to heat exhaustion during an Arizona hike in June 2021. From childhood Taco Bell runs and Guitar Hero battles to the devastating phone call that changed everything, Carina opens up about the overlooked reality of sibling loss. Through raw honesty about family dynamics, the pressure to be "the strong one," and the unique bond shared only between siblings, this episode shines light on a type of grief that deserves recognition. Perfect for anyone who's ever felt invisible in their own pain, or who wants to understand the complex journey of losing not just a brother, but a lifeline.Connect with Carina► Instagram: @oxcarinaxoConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

In this powerfully honest episode, Adriana's friend Teresa shares her story for the first time, walking us through the slow erosion of her 20-year marriage. What began as a partnership was shattered by a life-altering cancer diagnosis that, while beaten, unleashed a devastating spiral of addiction, depression, and psychological torment. Teresa recounts the lonely years spent trying to "fix" the man she loved, the chilling effect of prescription drugs, and the impossible weight of keeping her family together, until her daughter’s four simple words, "I don't feel safe," changed everything.This is a story about the guilt of giving up, the strength it takes to leave, and the slow, difficult path toward healing from trauma. Teresa's journey from a toxic marriage to a new, unhealthy relationship and, finally, to a place of self-awareness and healing, is a testament to resilience and the courage to finally listen to your own inner voice.Key Moments:03:27 — The Cancer Diagnosis: A shocking turn that rocked their world.08:37 — His Drug of Choice: How losing his identity as an adrenaline junkie fueled his despair.11:01 — A Combination of Disaster: The dangerous mix of pain pills, Ambien, and alcohol.13:12 — He Beat Cancer, But Broke His Back: The chemo aftermath and the start of a new pill dependency.17:50 — "He Wasn't That Dad Anymore": The heartbreaking moment Teresa realized the man she married was gone.21:10 — "I Don't Feel Safe Anymore": The words from her daughter that became the final straw.23:21 — The Break-In: The terrifying incident that led to a restraining order.26:13 — The Guilt of Leaving: Facing judgment from family and the struggle to let go.32:26 — Jumping Into Another Bad Relationship: The trap of avoiding silence after trauma.40:05 — When Therapy Goes Wrong: The challenge of finding the right therapist and medication.59:08 — The Nine-Year Mistake: Teresa reveals she spent almost a decade in another toxic relationship after her marriage.1:03:46 — Advice to Her Younger Self: What she wishes she had known.Connect with Teresa► Instagram: @love.t.cConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

Grief, addiction, and motherhood collide in one of Adriana’s most vulnerable conversations yet. Answering listeners’ toughest questions, she traces Eric’s relapse from heroin to fentanyl, the everyday tells she missed at first—long “gas station” runs, restless energy, and a different cadence in his voice—and the moment a hidden wrapper shattered her denial. She recounts how she chose clear, concrete language to explain death to her kids, and why “passed away” felt more confusing than kind.Adriana speaks candidly about the limits of love in the face of addiction, why ultimatums didn’t work, and how her experience with a non-abusive, high-functioning partner may differ from those in unsafe relationships. She opens a difficult window into her children’s grief—openhearted talks, sudden public tears, anger seeking a safe outlet—and her own guilt from surviving while parenting. Finally, she shares the controversial choice to leave California—and her nearby parents—to return to Arizona, prioritizing mental health, stability, and a sense of home over proximity to support.Content warning: discussions of addiction, overdose, and children processing death.Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcastThis podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

In this deeply moving episode of Just for Today, Adriana sits down with Brittany Putnam for an intimate conversation about navigating life's most unimaginable challenges. Brittany shares her heartbreaking story of losing her husband Kyle in a tragic accident during what was supposed to be a joyful birthday celebration at the lake.What You'll Hear:• The devastating moment that changed everything - Kyle's fatal accident while cliff jumping• How Brittany navigated telling her young children (ages 5 and 16 months) about their father's death• The isolating reality of sudden widowhood at 31 with two small children• Finding community through social media and widow support groups like Camp Widow• The complex journey of dating again as a young widow• Meeting Luke in an unexpected place - the elementary school cafeteria where she taught• Blending families and helping children process grief while building new relationships• Creating "Exhale" - healing retreats for young widows with children living at home• The beautiful and complicated reality of loving again after lossKey Moments:• The raw account of the lake accident that took Kyle's life• How children process grief differently and the ongoing challenges of single parenting through trauma• The guilt, judgment, and healing that comes with dating after loss• Finding hope and purpose through helping other widows in their darkest moments• The importance of community and not walking through grief aloneBrittany's story is one of devastating loss transformed into powerful purpose. Through her vulnerability, she shows us that it's possible to honor the past while embracing a future filled with hope, love, and healing.Resources Mentioned:• Camp Widow• Never Alone Widows• Exhale Retreats for Young WidowsConnect with Brittany:► Instagram: @bravely.brittConnect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast⚠️ TRIGGER WARNINGIf you or someone you know is struggling with loss, please know you're not alone. This conversation contains mature themes about death, grief, addiction, overdose, and trauma.This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.