What Your Therapist Is Reading ®

Follow along on social media @therapybookspodcast *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler interviews licensed clinical social worker and author Phil Lane about his book, "Overcoming Panic and Panic Attacks." (affiliate link) Phil shares that the book is rooted in his own experience with intense panic attacks. Listen in as we explore the topic of panic, causes and how to handle it through various interventions. We also address fear of recurring panic, framing episodes as temporary “flare-ups,” and note that panic symptoms can mimic medical emergencies, so ruling out health issues and keeping up with checkups is important. Highlights: Challenging Panic Thoughts What Panic Really Is Book Roadmap Overview Why Panic Happens Baseline Habits Therapy Tools That Help Fear of Panic Returning Somatic Mimics and Medical Checks Self Awareness and Triggers About the author: Phil Lane is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist in private practice, and the author of three books in the psychology/self-improvement space. Phil specializes in the treatment of anxiety, panic, life transitions, impulse control, and men's issues.

After today episode, head on over to @therapybookdspodcast to learn about the lastest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler interviews Lisa Gray this week about relationships and chronic illness. We discuss her book: Thriving in a Relationship When You Have Chronic Illness: Navigate Challenges and Keep Your Relationship Strong Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (affiliate link). We explore how chronic illness changes couple dynamics and how acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can help. Highlights: How couples change Bargaining and Money ACT Skills Values as a couple About the author: Lisa Gray is a licensed mental health professional with a private practice in the San Francisco Bay area. She is the author of two books and is passionate about teaching conflict and coping with chronic illness. She reads 200 books a year and lives with her family and three large dogs.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. On this weeks episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Jessica Zucker about her book Normalize it: Upending the Silence, stigma and Shame that Shapes Women’s Lives, (affiliate link) which examines women’s experiences from girlhood through menopause, including miscarriage, body image, motherhood, and friendship, and aims to dismantle the silence, stigma, and shame surrounding them. Highlights Unspoken Pain and Joy Replace Silence with Stories Miscarriage Stigma and Shame Motherhood Without a Village Three-part framework—acknowledge it, share it, normalize it Menopause Friendship Grief and Loneliness About the author Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. Jessica is the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Vogue, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She’s been featured on NPR, CNN, The Today Show, and Good Morning America and earned advanced degrees from New York University and Harvard University. Her second book, NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women’s Lives, is out now and available everywhere books are sold.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler interviews education writer Natalie Wexler about her book "The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America's Broken Education System—and How to Fix It. (Affiliate Link) Wexler explains that many elementary schools, especially since the rise of high-stakes testing around 2000, have reduced time spent on history, social studies, and science in favor of practicing transferable reading “skills” like finding the main idea. Drawing on cognitive science, she argues these skills depend heavily on prior knowledge and vocabulary, and that building knowledge through coherent, topic-based instruction improves reading comprehension by reducing working-memory load (cognitive load theory). In addition, we discuss we explore how mental health and education are connected. Highlights: What the “Knowledge Gap” Is—and How Elementary School Got Here Why “Reading Skills” Don’t Transfer: The Cognitive Science of Comprehension Inquiry vs. Instruction: How Education Ideology Collides with Learning Science Working Memory, Cognitive Load, and Why Background Knowledge Matters History & Science Scores, Missing Context, and the “Mental Velcro” Effect Mental health and education 18:30 What Parents & Communities Can Do: Knowledge-Building Curricula and Advocacy 22:07 Standards, Teacher Autonomy, and the Curriculum Problem No One Talks About 25:32 Why Therapists Should Care: Shame, Identity, and a Reno Classroom Breakthrough 29:58 Engagement Benefits: Behavior, Curiosity, and Kids Loving to Learn 32:07 Natalie’s New Book + Connecting Reading, Writing, and Content Learning 34:23 Wrap-Up, Where to Find More, and Podcast Disclaimer About the author: Natalie Wexler is an education writer who has spoken before a wide range of audiences in the U.S. and elsewhere, focusing on literacy, cognitive science, and fairness. She is the author of Beyond the Science of Reading: Connecting Literacy Instruction to the Science of Learning and The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America’s Broken Education System—And How to Fix It, and the co-author of The Writing Revolution: A Guide to Advancing Thinking Through Writing in All Subjects and Grades. She is the host of “Reading Comprehension Revisited,” which is Season One of the Knowledge Matters Podcast.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler chats with Dr. Robert Jason Grant about his book “AutPlay Therapy Play and Social Groups: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Model” co-written with Tracy Turner-Bumberry. Dr. Grant explains the importance of respecting neurodivergent children's play preferences and avoiding imposing neurotypical standards on them. The conversation covers the concept of neurodiversity, practical examples of affirming care, and details about group therapy models that involve both children and their parents. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about providing affirming care to neurodivergent individuals and are given guidance on how to apply these principles in their practice. Highlights: Discussing and understanding Neurodiversity Understanding Play Therapy through this lens Group Therapy Models Practical Applications and Final Thoughts About the author: Dr. Robert Jason Grant is the creator of AutPlay® Therapy. He is a therapist, supervisor, and consultant and utilizes several years of advanced training and his own lived neurodivergent experience to provide affirming services to children and their families. He is an international trainer and keynote presenter and multi-published author of several articles and books. He is currently serving on the board of directors for the Association for Play Therapy.

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist, about her book 'Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: The Attachment Theory Guide to Raising Kids in Two Homes.'(affiliant link) Aurisha and Jessica talk all things about co-parenting. Aurisha outlines the structure of her book, including the six Cs of cooperative co-parenting, and provides insightful examples of real-life co-parenting challenges and solutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on the child's well-being, managing personal triggers, and shifting from a romantic relationship mindset to a co-parenting mindset. The episode also touches on practical tips and resources for parents and therapists alike. Highlights: Diving into Cooperative Co-Parenting Attachment Theory and Co-Parenting Personal Experiences and Examples The Co-Parenting Triangle About the author: Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified co-parenting coach, mediator, and mother, with a clinical practice in Los Angeles, CA. She is the award winning author of Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: The Attachment Theory Guide to Raising Kids in Two Homes. She specializes in working with co-parents, couples, and individuals. As a co-parent herself, she is very familiar with the challenges faced by parents raising kids in two households. For more than 15 years, she has drawn on attachment theory and other modalities to help clients move from conflict to cooperation, make child-centered agreements, and create a secure co-parenting two-home family system. She has been featured in Vogue, Newsweek, Huffington Post, and Parents among others. She lives with her daughter and cat and sees clients both virtually and in person.

After todays episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Amanda Ann Gregory about her book 'You Don't Need To Forgive: Trauma Recovery on Your Own Terms.'(affiliate link). Amanda, a trauma psychotherapist, discusses all things forgiveness. They explore Amanda's definition of forgiveness as a fluid, process-oriented experience rather than a definitive end-point. The conversation extends to Amanda's personal and professional journey dealing with trauma, the importance of finding safety before addressing forgiveness, and practical ways trauma survivors can address external pressures to forgive. The episode includes a discussion of therapeutic strategies for trauma recovery, including EMDR, somatic therapy, and community support groups. Both trauma survivors and clinicians are encouraged to approach forgiveness and healing with flexibility and openness. Highlights: Personal Stories and Impact of Reading Diving into the Book: You Don't Need To Forgive Defining Forgiveness and Its Challenges Exploring Trauma and Recovery Practical Advice for Trauma Survivors and Clinicians The Importance of Safety in Trauma Recovery About the author: Amanda Ann Gregory is a trauma psychotherapist renowned for her work in complex trauma recovery, notably as the author of You Don’t Need to Forgive: Trauma Recovery on Your Own Terms. With a keen focus on the specific needs of trauma survivors, Gregory's expertise spans over 17 years in clinical practice. Gregory holds clinical licenses in Illinois, Missouri, and Texas, alongside EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and National Counseling certifications. She has been featured in The New York Times, National Geographic, and Newsweek and published in Psychology Today, Psychotherapy Networker, and Chicken Soup for the Soul. She practices in Chicago, Illinois, and lives in the city with her partner and their sassy black cat, Mr. Bojangles.

*Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, so we are starting October with The Adult Side of Dyslexia (affiliate link) by Dr. Kelli Sandman Hurley. The discussion covers the long-term impact of dyslexia on individuals, particularly focusing on adult experiences and the lack of resources available post-school years. Dr. Hurley shares insights from her interviews with adults who have dyslexia, revealing the emotional and psychological challenges they face. The episode emphasizes the importance of early intervention, proper support, and self-advocacy for individuals with dyslexia to improve their quality of life and mental health. Listeners are encouraged to consider the lifelong effects of dyslexia and the role educators and therapists can play in supporting affected individuals. Highlights The Adult Side of Dyslexia and How the Book Came To Interview Insights and Key Findings Personal Stories and Experiences Challenges and Advocacy Resources and Support for Adults About the author: Kelli Sandman-Hurley, Ed.D. is the author and founder of the Dyslexia Training Institute. She co-created and produced “Dyslexia for a Day: A Simulation of Dyslexia,” as well as writing the well-received books, Dyslexia Advocate! How to Advocate for a Child with Dyslexia within the Public Education System, Dyslexia & Spelling: Making Sense of it All and The Adult Side of Dyslexia.

“Well, you have to talk to them different than maybe you did when they were 10, and you have to do it without the questions, and you have to be respectful. So, the sarcastic comments have to go because that's not real inviting.” Janet Edgette, PhD. *This episode is for mental health professionals.*After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler discusses Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents alongside Dr. Janet Edgette. Dr. Edgette is an experienced psychologist and author. She shares insights from her new book 'Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents: Helping Teens in Therapy Thrive in an Ultra-Competitive, Screen-Saturated World,' highlighting effective ways to engage with teens in therapy by being authentic, respectful, and avoiding a question-based approach. She emphasizes the importance of talking 'with' teens rather than 'at' them, addressing real issues, and fostering genuine communication. The episode also delves into how cultural expectations about adolescence often lead to misunderstandings and provides practical advice for therapists and parents on how to build stronger connections with teenagers. Highlights Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents Engaging Teens in Therapy Addressing Disrespect in Therapy Handling Noncompliance Building Credibility with Teens Respecting Client Autonomy Challenging Teen Stereotypes Effective Parent-Teen Communication Modern Approach to Teen Therapy Connect with the author: Facebook Instagram About the author: Janet Sasson Edgette, Psy.D., M.P.H. is a psychologist, author, workshop leader, and speaker from the Philadelphia area, working with teenagers and consulting to their parents for over thirty five years in her Philadelphia-based private practice. She is the author of seven books, her most recent one being Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents: Helping Teens in Therapy Thrive in an Ultra-Competitive and Screen- Saturated World. Others include Adolescent Therapy That Works: Helping Kids Who Never Asked for Help in the First Place and Stop Negotiating With Your Teen: Strategies for Parenting Your Angry, Manipulative, Moody or Depressed Adolescent. For much of her career, Janet has focused on offering therapy services to young people that they actually value and respect, and want to participate in, eliminating the miserable and degrading tug of war and other power struggles many clinicians endure when working with this population. She has been teaching her approach, Modern Teen Therapy for more than three decades to audiences through the US and Canada as well as to other teen therapists in her online coaching/mentorship program. Janet received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, PA and a masters in public health from the University of Oklahoma. She is a native New Yorker, the mother of three young men, an avid equestrian (show jumping), and a lover of all dogs, especially pit bulls and Bullmastiffs.

After today's episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. We are starting season 8 with Teaching With A Strength-Based Approach: How to Motivate Students and Build Relationships (affiliate link) by Steven Baron, Psy.D., which seems fitting as we are in the swing of back to school. Dr. Barons, a seasoned school psychologist and private practice therapist, shares insights on how highlighting students' strengths can significantly impact their success and well-being. The discussion includes practical strategies for educators to incorporate strength-based methods in their classrooms, emphasizing the long-term positive effects these relationships can have on students. Highlights from this episode: Strength-Based Approach in Education Real-Life Application: A Success Story The Importance of Positive Teacher-Student Relationships Practical Strategies for Teachers The Role of Teachers and Parents in Child Development About the author: Steven Baron, Psy.D., was a school psychologist for thirty years in elementary and secondary settings. He currently treats children, teenagers, and families in private practice. Previously, Steve worked in mental health clinics and hospital settings and is currently a college adjunct. Steve has authored book chapters and journal articles on positive psychology and child psychotherapy. He recently published a book, Teaching With A Strength-Based Approach: How To Motivate Students And Build Relationships, by Routledge. In the book, Steve presents research on the impact of the teacher-student relationship on students and shares methods on how teachers can use this connection to help students identify and utilize their assets, even those they may not be aware of. Steve has presented to local and national conferences, school districts, and community organizations.

Trigger warning: This episode is for mental health professions and we will be discussing client suicide. *Information shared in this episode is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler is speaking with Khara Croswaite Brindle, MA, LPC, ACS, CFT about her book Moving from Alert to Acceptance: Helping Clinicians Heal from Client Suicide. (affiliate link) This book covers suicide assessment and safety planning in a way that takes the fear out of asking. In this episode, we explore how Khara writes client stories and therapist stories of healing. We explore how impactful this event is to clinicians and the struggles that can be had while trying to heal. About the author Khara Croswaite Brindle, MA, LPC, ACS, CFT is passionate about giving people aha moments that create goosebumps and catalyze powerful action. She is a TEDx Speaker, licensed mental health therapist, and financial therapist in Colorado. Khara enjoys various roles as a serial entrepreneur, 2x Amazon #1 Best-Selling Author, professional speaker, professor, and consultant. Khara specializes in helping therapists and financial therapists turn pain points into possibilities through consultation, courses, and supervision. She is originally from the Pacific Northwest and gets her best ideas walking outside and being around water. When Khara’s not writing her next book or supporting fellow professional helpers on their own self-discovery journeys, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, reading, and indulging in gluttonous, gluten-free desserts with her family.

After todays episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about our latest giveaway. *Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Larissa Nickson, LCSW, PMH-C, RYT 200 about her book I Hold You In My Heart: A Children's Book & Parent Guide to Helping Children Cope with Loss. In this book, the characters explore and navigate difficult emotions like grief, sadness and anger and along the way learn different coping strategies. Highlights from the episode: 3:46 Larissa shares how the book is for children and parents to explore loss and shares some examples of the coping skills that are taught in the book. 4:59 Larissa shares a little about her story of grief and what inspired the book. 6:25 Larissa shares how she choose to use the word loss, so this book can be used in a way that it can be about losing anything. 8:37 Larissa shares who the book is for. About the author: Larissa Nickson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience helping children and adults. She is certified to work with women in the perinatal period and specializes in working with people who experience pregnancy loss and birth trauma. In memory of her daughter, she was inspired to write a children’s book about loss to help families learn about ways to cope with grief.