Sanity

In this episode of the Sanity Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Scott Waltman, a renowned clinical psychologist and master CBT therapist, to delve into the philosophy of Stoicism and its application in modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Dr. Waltman discusses his new podcast and book on Stoicism, the Stoic principles' alignment with human nature, and how Stoicism can be integrated into therapeutic practices to help clients navigate stress and uncertainty. He also highlights the importance of values, self-compassion, and the distinction between control and acceptance. Whether you're a therapist or someone interested in improving mental well-being, this episode offers valuable insights into combining ancient wisdom with contemporary therapeutic techniques.

This special episode of Sanity Podcast, titled 'The MJ's Eras Tour', features a deep dive into the history and growth of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) alongside its impact on cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as a field. Mary Jane Eimer, known as MJ, reflects on her 45-year tenure as the executive director of ABCT, discussing the association's milestones, leadership transitions, and the evolution from behavior therapy to including cognitive approaches. The conversation is enriched by insights from Dr. David Barlow, past president of ABCT and a prominent figure in psychology, highlighting the pioneering efforts of the organization and the significant contributions to the field. The podcast explores topics, such as the challenges faced over the decades, the growth and international spread of CBT, and MJ's influential role in steering the association through decades of progress. Listeners are taken on a journey through ABCT's history, from its early days to becoming a global beacon for evidence-based psychological treatment. -- ⁠mbpractice.com/sanity

This second episode features an extensive discussion with Dr. Resick on various facets of CPT therapy, innovative advancements, and its application in treating PTSD. They cover topics like the DSM's limitations, emotional neglect, and abuse in the context of PTSD, the concept of post-traumatic growth, the evolution and different versions of CPT, including its effectiveness and application for different populations, and therapist competence. Additionally, the episode touches on the utility of CPT for other conditions, considerations for comorbid conditions, and the introduction of a new CPT manual and a self-help book for PTSD. The episode aims to provide deep insights into CPT, its impact on patients, and guidance for therapists and researchers. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

This episode delves into the intricacies of telehealth in the mental health field, featuring insights from Dr. Alvord and discussions on its appropriateness for various client demographics, including new parents, individuals with social phobia, and the elderly. It covers the challenges and considerations of telehealth, including ethical, logistical, ADA considerations, and the impact of recent insurance coding changes. The discussion also touches on cultural considerations, crisis management in a telehealth context, and best practices for practitioners considering or currently offering telehealth services. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this second episode, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) experts, Dr. Kate Gibson and Dr. Corey Lineman, provide an in-depth discussion on the PCIT protocol for older children (mid-elementary to late elementary age). They explain how specific techniques are gradually introduced to shape behavior, using rewards to keep children invested in the therapeutic process. A range of topics are covered, from the essential role of rapport building to breaking down the reinforcement systems and the structure of timeout protocols. Throughout the episode, the importance of creating a positive environment and rewards system to motivate the child's cooperation and progress in therapy, are emphasized. The video also offers resources for professionals interested in implementing the PCIT protocol. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this second episode, Dr. Shannon Blakey discusses the route to a non-profit career. She emphasizes the importance of research experience and strong communication skills. The role of mentors and sponsors in career advancement is also highlighted. The episode highlights ways to network and build connections within the field and emphasize the critical role these relationships can play in career growth. This discussion includes practical advice on job hunting strategies and the necessity of being patient and flexible in your career path. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this second episode, sleep and circadian rhythm expert, Dr. Allison Harvey, discusses the impact of sleep on mental health and the treatment approach that she's been working on called Transdiagnostic Intervention for Sleep and Circadian Problems, or Trans C. She underscores the importance of habit formation and memory support in improving treatment. The episode highlights the benefits of Trans C, how it focuses on numerous sleep problems, facilitates training and supervision, and helps patients to sleep better, thereby improving their overall mental health. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In the third episode, Dr. John Abramowitz, internationally recognized expert on OCD, dives deeper into the discussion on treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). He talks about the benefits of value-oriented behavior in exposure work, the significance of identifying a patient's values, and the role of exposure therapy. John suggests how to implement exposure therapy to help patients lead a quality life, shifting focus away from eliminating anxiety to acting despite its presence. He also discusses the benefits and limitations of medication in treating OCD and how successful treatment looks: not the complete absence of anxiety or obsessions, but having a healthier relationship with those concepts. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this episode of the Sanity Podcast, Dr. Jonathan Abramowitz, an internationally recognized expert on OCD and anxiety returns to discuss the complexities of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD. The discussion also focuses on the importance and challenges of accurately diagnosing OCD using various measures. Dr. Abramowitz shares insights on multiple subtypes of OCD, highlighting the role of obsession, compulsion, and distress in its manifestation. The key commonalities among different types of OCD, the cultural aspects, and the broader criteria for diagnosing and measuring its severity are among the topics discussed. This understanding forms the foundation for more effective treatment strategies, which will be discussed in the next episode. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this two-part episode of the ABCT & Sanity Podcast collaboration series, Dr. Robert Leahy, a prominent clinical psychologist, author, and master cognitive therapist, discusses worry and its impact on our mental health. He differentiates between productive and unproductive worry, and shares insights into how anxiety evolved as a survival mechanism influencing our present-day fears. With a focus on treating unproductive worry, he delves into the acceptance of uncertainty and predicting probabilities, and how these practices can help alleviate worry. The episode also touches on how our fears are inherently linked to our evolutionary past, highlighting the interplay between psychology and cognitive science. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this episode of the Sanity x ABCT collaboration series, two experts in the field of psychedelic assisted therapy, Dr. Jason Luoma and Dr. Brian Pilecki, shed light on the process, potential benefits, and risks of this growing treatment approach. Topics discussed include the classes and applications of different psychedelics, the importance of a therapeutic context, and the current state of research on these substances. They emphasize the necessity of proper guidance and caution in using these psychedelic substances due to their powerful psychological effects. Also, they discuss that while individual substances may result in considerably different experiences, and are often influenced by environmental factors, the general structure of a therapeutic session remains the same: preparation, the psychedelic experience, and post-session integration. -- mbpractice.com/sanity

In this episode of the Sanity Podcast, host Dr. Jason Duncan reconnects with Dr. Craig Henderson to discuss family-based treatment solutions for adolescent substance abuse and other related mental health disorders. Dr. Henderson elaborates on the increasing prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders among teenagers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and shares insights into the importance of acknowledging and tackling substance abuse issues in this age group. The discussion also explores the influence of family dynamics on the mental health and resilience of adolescents, the challenges posed by societal pressures, and the scope for engaging broader family networks or 'families of choice' in therapeutic healing processes. The podcast episode wraps up with Dr. Henderson highlighting various resources for support and recovery, including the 'Consortium on Addiction Recovery Support' (COARS), the 'Partnership to End Addiction' and others, available to families dealing with substance abuse. 00:22 Introduction and Guest Background 00:59 The Current State of Adolescent Substance Abuse 01:27 Impact of COVID-19 on Adolescent Mental Health 13:42 The Role of Family in Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment 17:47 Understanding Family-Based Therapies 23:39 The Influence of Peer Groups and Social Factors 30:29 The Role of Parents in Emerging Adulthood 34:24 Parenting Challenges and Joys 35:37 Balancing Parenting and Caregiving for Aging Parents 36:18 Learning to Parent at Different Life Stages 37:03 Two Rules for Parenting 37:22 The Importance of Family in Therapy 37:43 The Role of Family in Therapy 39:11 Challenges of Non-traditional Family Structures in Therapy 39:42 Inclusion of Chosen Family in Therapy 41:37 The Role of Therapists in Family Therapy 43:50 Core Elements of Effective Family Therapy 49:15 The Importance of Fidelity in Therapy 49:16 The Role of Research in Improving Family Therapy 51:45 The Importance of Self-check in Therapy 59:26 Addressing Substance Use and Mental Health Issues in Teens 59:52 National Initiatives to Address Substance Use 01:07:38 Final Thoughts: The Power of Kindness and Support