Send us a text

Imagine growing up with a parent struggling with schizophrenia—how would it shape your life and career choices? Chrissy Ames Cotto, a licensed marriage and family therapist, joins us to share her deeply personal and transformative journey. From her challenging adolescent years to her path of self-healing through therapy, Chrissy's story is a testament to resilience and the power of hope. This episode opens a window into the human experiences that fuel the therapeutic process, helping us to connect more deeply with our emotional battles and triumphs.

We also unpack the principles of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and the significant role mindfulness plays in cultivating resilience. Chrissy discusses the fine line between maintaining an optimistic outlook and falling into the trap of toxic positivity, urging us to respect our feelings and set healthy boundaries. Through her insights, we learn how staying present can help us navigate even the toughest moments, making room for growth and a more hopeful perspective on life’s challenges.

What does forgiveness look like, especially when it feels impossible? Chrissy delves into radical acceptance, discussing how acknowledging our feelings is crucial to the healing journey. We explore the complexities of letting go of resentment, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the importance of self-forgiveness. To cap it off, Chrissy emphasizes the power of gratitude and reframing our perspectives to foster hope and personal resilience. This conversation is a true guide to embracing growth, healing, and a brighter outlook amidst life’s adversities.

Chrissy's Website: https://www.hopegrowthhealing.com/

Information on where you can find us.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Send us a text

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Tara Armstead, as she reflects on her 18-year journey in education. Dr. Armstead opens up about her personal battles and how they inspired her to write a book that challenges societal norms and educational practices. You'll learn how her unique perspective and dedication to embracing differences can revolutionize the way we teach and engage with students.

Dr. Armstead's story isn't just about overcoming personal hurdles; it's a compelling narrative on the power of individualized education. We dive into real-life stories, such as a student's struggle with the loss of a parent, to underscore the importance of empathy and personal connection in teaching. Discover how adapting to diverse learning styles can significantly impact student success in the public school system, and why focusing solely on testing and grades can overlook crucial emotional and social factors.

But that's not all. We also explore the crucial link between human connection and resilience. Through poignant anecdotes, Dr. Armstead shares the transformative effects of making students feel genuinely valued. The episode challenges traditional hierarchical leadership models, advocating instead for a collaborative approach that fosters shared purpose and mutual respect. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about changing the status quo, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can build a more inclusive and effective educational environment.

Find her here: https://linktr.ee/drarmstead

Information on where you can find us.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Send us a text

Join us on this episode of Hopeology as we sit down with Dr. Max Kusovitsky, a psychoanalyst from the New York/New Jersey tri-state area. Dr. Kusovitsky peels back the layers of psychodynamic therapy, debunking myths about Freudian and Jungian practices, and reveals how modern techniques uncover unconscious thoughts to facilitate genuine healing and transformation. Discover how meaningful therapeutic work goes beyond surface-level issues to foster resilience and authenticity.

How do we balance fostering hope with the risk of it becoming unrealistic? Our discussion ventures into the delicate boundaries of hope, using examples like grandiose fantasies to highlight the need for empathy and respect in therapy. Drawing from Rogerian theory, Christina emphasizes the importance of unconditional positive regard and tailoring therapeutic approaches to each person's unique circumstances. Dr. Kusovitsky provides insights into the nuanced role of hope in therapy, marking the fine line between beneficial optimism and harmful delusion.

We also explore the intricate dance between resilience and hope in the quest for personal growth. Resilience acts as a shield against life's adversities, while hope serves as the North Star guiding individuals toward their dreams. Through engaging anecdotes and practical examples, we unravel the transformative journey from a fabricated self to an authentic one. Learn how understanding unconscious desires and setting realistic goals can lead to profound personal transformation, and how practitioners can nurture these qualities for true healing and growth. Tune in for a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between resilience, hope, and authenticity in psychodynamic therapy.

More info: meaningfultherapy.org

Information on where you can find us.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.