More Than Therapy

Today on More Than Therapy, we have the profound pleasure of welcoming Leah Johnson, a transformational leader whose journey from a 25-year career in politics to a life devoted to creativity, healing, and joy is nothing short of inspiring. Leah is a best-selling author, internationally sought-after speaker, certified Intentional Creativity instructor, and retreat leader who helps people reconnect with their creative power and live intentionally aligned lives.After a long and demanding career in public service, Leah experienced profound burnout and depression, which became a catalyst for deep personal transformation. She courageously walked away from the identity and system that no longer served her and ventured into the world of art, spirituality, and self-advocacy. Through her books, workshops, and retreats — including her signature transformational journeys in Teotihuacan, Mexico — Leah guides others to shed limiting beliefs, cultivate authentic joy, and co-create lives filled with meaning and soul.Leah’s work reminds us that joy is not a luxury but a lifeline. As she often says, “You are the artist of your life — and the canvas is ready.” Today, she shares her wisdom on how to quit what no longer serves you with intention, reclaim your creativity, and embrace a joyful, resilient path forward.------------Hosted by:Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBTExecutive Director of More Than Therapy201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Office: 1-919-729-6300Cell: 1-919-679-2263www.morethantherapy.orghttps://amazon.com/author/mistertherapistGratitude: I live and work on the ancestral lands of Occaneechi, Shakori, Lumbee, Catawba and Cheraw Native American tribes. I gratefully acknowledge the past and present Native Peoples on whose ancestral homelands I make my life.

Jim Marshall is a polymathic intellectual who has has devoted over 50,000 hours to the study and practice of multiple dimensions of human development. He received a classical education at a Jesuit Military School, was accepted into engineering school while still a junior in prep school, and attended college on academic scholarship. He graduated college with a Bachelor of Science cum laude. While still an undergraduate, he began the study of “alternative” Arts and Sciences which today would be described as Transformational and Holistic. Eventually, he became a professional practitioner and, after 28 years of formal education, had a long career as a Human Development Engineer. He has successfully worked with hundreds of clients, and is the inventor of Septemics and several consciousness-expanding systems. His areas of expertise include psychology, philosophy, theology, parapsychology, science, engineering, mathematics, law, literature, history, music, organization, metaphysics, military science, political science, physical culture, human potential and education.

What kinds of thoughts keep you from feeling joy for the good fortune of others? How can you learn to feel this joy?How can you increase your awareness of your feelings towards others?How do you feel when someone else shows sincere joy for the happiness and good fortune in your life?This episode was recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LAC, LCMHC, LPC, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT at More Than Therapy.www.morethantherapy.org201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Check out the books authored by Felipe Blue available on Amazon:https://amazon.com/author/mistertherapistAre you looking for therapy services? Check out Felipe Blue, licensed therapist in South Carolina and North Carolina, at:www.misterblue.net

Felipe Khristopher Blue discusses men's mental health, and the title of his book, "It's Okay to Not Be Okay." He talks about how societal expectations have shaped the way men express themselves, and how this can lead to issues like anger, irritability, depression, and substance abuse. He provides practical strategies and self-care practices for men, such as mindful journaling, cognitive reframing, and building Supportive relationships. The book also covers the importance of confronting barriers to connection and seeking help. IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK - A MEN'S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH EVENT ON 6/28/2025 at 12pmJoin us for an afternoon of honest conversation, reflection, and community as we launch It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: An Empowering Discussion Regarding Men’s Mental Health in recognition of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month. This event is designed to break the silence around men’s mental health, challenge outdated narratives, and empower attendees to embrace vulnerability as a pathway to resilience and connection.Who Should Attend:Men seeking support, understanding, or a new perspective on mental health.Allies, partners, and community members interested in breaking down stigma.Therapists, counselors, educators, and advocates for men’s wellness.Anyone ready to challenge the old script and help build a new, more inclusive narrative.Why Attend?Despite progress, many men still struggle in silence, caught between inherited expectations and the realities of modern life. This event offers a safe space to explore the roots of stoic masculinity, unpack cultural myths, and discover that real strength comes from authenticity and connection, not suppression.What's Included?Community, discussions, food and light beverages, a signed copy of the newly released book on the same subject matter which includes an 8 week programming one can use for self empowerment or use in a group setting, resources, and ongoing support via networking, and for mental health professionals, up to 3 CEU from the NCSAPPB board under General Skill Building.https://nextevent.morethantherapy.org/

Happy Mother's Day! Mother's Day is a holiday with a specific historical origin (Anna Jarvis, 1914).The experience of Mother's Day is highly individual and can range from joy and celebration to pain, grief, and struggle.It is important to validate all these diverse emotions and experiences without judgment.Compassion, both for oneself and others, is a key element in navigating the emotional complexities of Mother's Day.Healing from difficult relationships and accepting imperfections in motherhood are important aspects discussed.Grief for a deceased mother is a valid and important emotion to acknowledge.The personal tribute highlights the profound impact a positive mother-child relationship can have.Recorded by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS for More Than Therapy which is located at: 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701. Accepting new clients!!

The stigma surrounding mental health has various impacts on individuals, such as preventing them from seeking treatment and causing discrimination in the workplace. Addressing stigma can lead to better access to care and resources for those with mental health conditions, as well as promoting social inclusion and empowerment for individuals to manage their health and pursue their goals. It can also foster a stronger, more diverse community. During the podcast, Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS discuss the importance of mental health and the challenges faced by marginalized communities when it comes to accessing mental health resources. He is joined by two preseasoned therapists, Alex Hatley and Alexis Prunczic, who share their personal experiences and insights on the topic. Together, they discuss the impact of systemic racism, poverty, and other social factors on mental health and how community involvement can help in raising awareness and promoting access to mental health services. They emphasize the need for Stigma around mental health needs to be addressed in order to promote well-being and reduce discrimination against those living with mental health challenges. To reduce stigma, it is important to promote open conversations, educate ourselves and others, and advocate for supportive policies and human rights. Acknowledging individuals' abilities and empowering them to reach their full potential can also help reduce stigma. Media also plays a role in perpetuating or reducing stigma, so it is important to be mindful of the content we consume and create.Mental health stigma is a negative attitude or belief towards people with mental health conditions, and it is common in society. Public stigma is when people view mental health negatively and may prevent individuals from seeking help. There is also self-stigma where individuals put themselves down or identify strongly with their diagnosis. Structural stigma is when societal structures create an environment of stigmatizing certain groups, such as those in the LGBTQ+ community or low-income individuals. The consequences of mental health stigma can include individuals not seeking This was a conversation about the stigma surrounding mental health and the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. The participants discussed the societal pressures and stereotypes that contribute to the stigma, and how this can lead to social isolation and discrimination for those struggling with mental health challenges. They also discussed the importance of education and empathy and the need for more accessible and supportive mental health services in the workplace. Alexis M. Prunczik and Alexandra Hatley are both master 's-level Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.Ms. Prunczik is a mental health professional of six years; her work includes being a Direct Support Professional II within group homes, an Autism Support Specialist, an Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist, and currently a Qualified Professional and Employment Support Professional III. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Alcohol & Drug Studies through East Carolina University.Ms. Hatley also previously has experience as a Registered Behavioral Technician within the Applied Behavior Analysis field and double-majored in psychology and sociology during her undergraduate studies at East Carolina University. She volunteered at a Crisis Text-Line center for over a year and is interested in growing as a professional through knowledge and advocating for both equality and access.#multiculturalism #decolonizetherapy #mentalhealthawarenessHosted by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCSRecorded at More Than Therapy201 W Main StreetSuite 316Durham, NC 27701Director of Photography:Kaya JayIntro Music:Felipe Blue

In this episode, we dive into the transformative process of creating a vision board for 2025, building on the reflections from last year's board. We discuss the importance of self-reflection and goal assessment as we evaluate what worked and what didn’t in 2024. Key Highlights: Reflecting on 2024: We start by encouraging listeners to take a moment to look back on their 2024 vision board. What goals were achieved? Which ones fell short? Understanding these outcomes helps in setting realistic and meaningful intentions for the upcoming year. Lessons Learned: We provide insights into the common obstacles that may have hindered progress in 2024. Listeners will learn how to identify these barriers, whether they be lack of time, motivation, or clarity in goals. Setting Intentions for 2025: Transitioning into the new year, we emphasize the importance of specificity in goal-setting. We discuss how to define clear, actionable goals that resonate with personal values and aspirations.

The thought of the day presents a reflective meditation on perspective, contrasting optimistic and pessimistic viewpoints with a more analytical, engineering-like approach. It explores the author's personal experiences of shifting between these perspectives, emphasizing the power of choosing gratitude and appreciating life's blessings. The meditation encourages self-reflection on how one interprets challenges, suggesting that difficulties often offer valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. Finally, it proposes that our happiness hinges less on avoiding hardship and more on constructively interpreting life's lessons. Do you see the glass as half empty or half full? Are you afraid that a half-empty glass will soon be gone, or are you glad that you have half a glass of something to enjoy? How do the "half-empty" people affect you when you're around them? Are their views generally positive? Is it realistic to expect that all of our glasses should be full all the time? --- Recorded by: Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy (A 5013C Program of the FAEJ Foundation) 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 Do you want/need therapy and live in NC or SC? Do you have Aetna insurance? Quest Behavioral Health? Carelon Behavioral Health? Anthem EAP - Bank of America? Let's schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal goals. (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy)

Find acceptance and growth in the difficulties you face. How do you see difficulties in your life? Do you accept them as learning or teaching situations or wish they would go away? Have you grown more as a person when dealing with difficulties or when life has been flowing smoothly? Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 www.morethantherapy.org

Why do many of us spend so much time counting others blessings or comparing ourselves to others?What purpose do such actions serve?What are some ways we can focus more on our own blessings and less on those of others that seem better than our own? Recorded by: Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 www.morethantherapy.org Do you want/need therapy and live in NC or SC? Do you have Aetna insurance? Quest Behavioral Health? Carelon Behavioral Health? Anthem EAP - Bank of America? Let's schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal goals. (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy)

How can we feel more gratitude for all that our bodies do for us?How much work has your body done today without you being aware of it?What would life be like if our bodies were not as dependable as they are? Recorded by: Felipe Khristopher Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT Executive Director of More Than Therapy 201 W Main Street Suite 316 Durham, NC 27701 Office: 1-919-729-6300 Business Mobile: 1-919-679-2263 www.morethantherapy.org Do you want/need therapy and live in NC or SC? Do you have Aetna insurance? Quest Behavioral Health? Carelon Behavioral Health? Anthem EAP - Bank of America? Let's schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal goals. (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist, Certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy)

Do you count your blessings? How often? What are some things you are thankful for? What has gratitude added into your life? Recorded by/Hosted by: Felipe K. Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS, CCTP, CMNCS, C-DBT