In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode of Project I Am, Dr. David Schlosz sits down with somatically-oriented psychotherapist Whitney Sutherland to explore what it truly means to heal from complex trauma. Drawing from both clinical expertise and personal experience, Whitney shares how early attachment wounds shape our sense of self—and how healing becomes possible through presence, curiosity, and authentic relationship.

Together, they unpack the nuances of C-PTSD, the difference between disconnection and avoidance, and the powerful role of the nervous system in trauma recovery. Whitney also introduces the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), offering a compassionate framework for understanding survival strategies not as pathology, but as brilliant adaptations.

This episode is a must-listen for therapists, trauma survivors, and anyone longing to reclaim their aliveness. It’s a gentle reminder that healing doesn’t require force—just the right relationship, safety, and time.

Topics include:

• The difference between shock trauma and complex trauma
• How childhood survival strategies shape adult relationships
• Why honoring disconnection is essential for building capacity
• The therapeutic power of authenticity and consent
• How healing ripples out from the individual to the collective

Resources Mentioned:

• www.whitneysutherland.com
• www.complextraumatrainingcenter.com
• Transforming Trauma Podcast by the NARM Institute

In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful — and often overlooked — truths in therapy: the healing lies not in the techniques we use, but in the authentic relationships we build. Drawing from Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach, Relational-Cultural Theory, and current research, we’ll unpack why the therapeutic relationship is more important than any core theory or intervention.

We’ll talk honestly about why therapists sometimes hesitate to prioritize connection, the personal and professional costs of staying guarded, and the courage it takes to lean into real relational work. Through composite case examples, published studies, and reflections from practice, we’ll look at the profound beauty and benefits that unfold when we show up fully — human to human.

Whether you’re a mental health professional, counseling student, or someone passionate about the heart of healing, this episode invites you to deepen your understanding of what truly transforms lives inside the therapy room.

Join me for an encouraging, challenging, and inspiring conversation about the real work behind the work: connection.

In this deeply reflective and empowering episode, Dr. David Schlosz explores the transformative power of sitting in your feelings—fully allowing yourself to feel, process, and move through emotional discomfort rather than escaping it. Drawing on cutting-edge research in psychology, counseling theory, and somatic practice, this episode challenges the cultural and personal habits of avoidance and emotional suppression.

This episode weaves together clinical wisdom, real-life anecdotes, and powerful therapeutic tools from mindfulness, DBT, and somatic experiencing. Listeners will learn why avoidance increases suffering, how emotions live in the body, and what it really means to ride the wave of emotion with courage, self-compassion, and presence.

Whether you’re guiding others through emotional healing or navigating your own inner world, this episode offers a grounded, research-based, and soul-nourishing invitation: feel it fully, and let healing begin.