Therapy is my Therapy http://therapyismytherapy.co Pinecast (https://pinecast.com) en-USOlivia Pruznick and Tanya Lam Olivia Pruznick and Tanya Lam timtpodcast@gmail.com yes Therapy is my Therapy http://therapyismytherapy.co https://storage.pinecast.net/podcasts/covers/4750990a-1c46-4aec-8f32-22404502ca28/Logo_Blue_Dark.png episodic Olivia Pruznick and Tanya Lam A mental health professional, and a professional trying to become mentally healthy, get real about what happens in that 50-minute hour. Sach Latti https://pinecast.com/guid/c9c259f3-8d6e-43d8-903d-07d12423b664 Fri, 05 Sep 2025 21:56:13 -0000 01:03:52 We survived Shaun Taylor, and all we got were these emotional scars. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/c9c259f3/sach-latti Episode Summary

In this episode, we talk with Sach Latti, who's a former LEO and bodybuilder, turned mental healt advocate and long-distance runner. We get into his mental health journey: what were his tipping points, his preconceived notions about therapy, and how he began to heal, and become who he truly is meant to be.

Resources

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (2:46) - Shame vs guilt
  • (5:46) - Addiction
  • (8:46) - Immigrant families
  • (15:24) - R E S P E C T
  • (18:13) - Cultural differences
  • (32:54) - Comparison is the thief of joy
  • (40:37) - Acta non verba
  • (50:43) - Therapy vs friends
  • (1:01) - Closing remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

]]> yes A Chance in Hell, Pt 2 | Ft. Chance Burles https://pinecast.com/guid/9458c305-8c43-475e-b9a1-007b5206c0bb Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:07:18 -0000 00:29:33 First contact with feelings https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/9458c305/a-chance-in-hell-pt-2-ft-chance-burles Episode description

In part two of this episode, we talk with Chance Burles, a former Canadian Army engineer, veteran advocate, and podcaster about his mental health journey, after he returned from serving in Afghanistan.

Additionally, we discuss the toxic side of maintaining the standard at all costs, the fear of "going soft" as a veteran, the misconceptions society and men alike have, in regards to talking about their emotions, and the importance of communicating with your loved ones.

Resources

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (0:37) - Indoctrination
  • (11:49) - Stay hard
  • (20:47) - Local man discovers emotions
  • (23:15) - Making first contact
  • (26:27) - Closing remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes A Chance in Hell ft. Chance Burles https://pinecast.com/guid/1ca90778-6d94-4f5d-bfbc-fe53b6f34093 Fri, 15 Aug 2025 14:07:18 -0000 00:41:28 "Embrace the suck" doesn't apply to mental health. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/1ca90778/a-chance-in-hell-ft-chance-burles Episode description

In part one of this episode, we talk with Chance Burles, a former Canadian Army engineer, veteran advocate, and podcaster about his mental health journey, after he returned from serving in Afghanistan.

Additionally, we talk about the way therapy is depicted in the media, common mental traps that veterans face in regards to seeking mental health, the prevalence of PTSD in the industrialised world, the insidious nature of sanctuary trauma and the importance of just being present.

Resources

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (1:59) - Watershed moment
  • (9:47) - Therapists in the media
  • (13:42) - PTSD in the industrialised world
  • (17:26) - Sanctuary trauma
  • (26:06) - You're still a fucking sprog
  • (32:53) - Embrace the suck

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

]]> yes Episode 14 – I beat therapy and so can you! https://pinecast.com/guid/22982cc3-8b49-450b-82cb-a9aaf16b8bf9 Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:59:49 -0000 00:38:29 The end boss of a therapy is a doozy. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/22982cc3/i-beat-therapy-and-so-can-you- Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear therapist cardigans.

In today’s episode, we get into a new segment, called “Post-Game Analyses,” where we examine events that happened during our week, in therapy, or otherwise.

In Olivia’s case, we talked about how tempting it can be to intervene when she sees a child seemingly in distress, as well as the legal and ethical boundaries of doing such a thing. It turns out, you can’t simply suplex people who are appearing to mistreat their children.

In addition to explaining why you can't go Judge Dredd on seemingly-crappy parents, Olivia drops some incredible gems of wisdom and knowledge in here, as well as revealing how she regulates her emotions, in order to use her powers only for good.

Tanya discusses how she stumbled upon her latent Daddy Issues, and how frustrating it can be, to feel like there’s a whole new steaming pile of healing to wade through, after having done the work for so many years.

Lastly, we discuss the parallels between the BJJ and therapeutic journey, especially in how the work never stops, how prevalent the blue belt blues are, and how levelling up requires a solid foundation.

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic Drop
  • (1:26) - The sound of silence
  • (4:06) - Post-game analysis
  • (15:36) - Reframing the good parent/bad parent dynamic
  • (23:42) - Therapy/BJJ blue belt blues
  • (31:37) - Performance vs process-based outcomes
  • (36:12) - My inner children are black belts

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

]]> I beat therapy and so can you! yes 14 Episode 15 – Combat, Based ft. Alan Shebarro | Part 2 https://pinecast.com/guid/61485999-fa12-4f48-9953-06f59465a951 Fri, 11 Jul 2025 21:32:01 -0000 00:28:24 https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/61485999/combat-based-ft-alan-shebarro-part-2 Episode Summary

In part two of this episode with Alan Shebarro, we talk about topics such as the question of whether or not to seek a therapist who’s qualified in treating veterans, the healing that comes from saying nothing at all with people who get it, the paradox of how curious we are for the welfare of others, but not ourselves, and how the mask we wear can suffocate us.

Once again, we are honoured that Alan took the time to take his mask off and be vulnerable, all in the name of spreading the word of mental health awareness for veterans.

Resources

Alan on IG
WeDefy Foundation for veterans mental health

Topics discussed:

  • Post-traumatic stress symptoms and destructive patterns
  • How all-or-nothing thinking can be a hinderance, when it comes to daily life
  • How healing can happen without words
  • How being considered "badass" can get in the way of seeking help
  • The pitfall of the "Asset or Liability" mentality
  • Challenges veterans face in finding the right therapist

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (1:13) - Are you qualified?
  • (3:44) - King of the Hill
  • (12:13) - Compassion for oneself
  • (20:49) - High/Low
  • (26:02) - Closing remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Combat, Based ft. Alan Shebarro | Part 2 yes 15 Episode 15 – Combat, Based ft. Alan Shebarro | Part 1 https://pinecast.com/guid/ed979b9f-05f7-44a6-8404-d86948630030 Fri, 04 Jul 2025 21:30:45 -0000 00:37:46 https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/ed979b9f/combat-based-ft-alan-shebarro-part-1 Episode Summary

In part one of this episode, we sit down with Alan Shebarro, who's a Special Forces veteran and BJJ black belt and talk about his post-service journey towards both mental health healing and finding purpose.

Alan reveals when he realised that he carried mental scars from serving overseas, and how they impacted his daily life.

We hope this podcast gives insight to those who serve their country, and to echo Alan's words, to seek help sooner.

Resources

Alan on IG
WeDefy Foundation for veterans mental health

Topics discussed:

  • Post-traumatic stress symptoms and destructive patterns
  • How all-or-nothing thinking can be a hinderance, when it comes to daily life

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (4:50) - Prelude to rock bottom/li>
  • (15:15) - Ranger is the best boy/The Night
  • (24:42) - Asset or liability
  • (31:45) - Walker Booth, MSG

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Combat, Based ft. Alan Shebarro | Part 1 yes 15 Episode 14 – Emotion is Lotion - Miles Pruznick | Pt. 2 https://pinecast.com/guid/a619080d-85a4-4c1e-87c0-2beb215040a7 Sat, 07 Jun 2025 21:26:03 -0000 00:34:39 Maxin' your relaxin' https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/a619080d/emotion-is-lotion-miles-pruznick-pt-2 Episode description

This is part two of our episode with Miles Pruznick, certified strength and conditioning coach, massage therapist, occasional strong man, bjj brown belt, and neurospicy kinesthetic adventurer. In this episode, we talk about the fragility narrative in both mental and physical wellness spaces, the benefits of pelvic floor therapy and breathwork, polyvagal theory, and the last segment, Miles answers a few of our listeners’ questions.

Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by guests on this podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast’s hosts, producers, or affiliated parties. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek independent professional advice before making any decisions based on the content discussed in this podcast.

Resources

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic Drop
  • (1:16) - Fragility narrative
  • (10:29) - Polyvagal theory
  • (18:55) - Ask Miles Anything
  • (24:40) - Question #2
  • (30:15) - Final remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Emotion is Lotion - Miles Pruznick | Pt. 2 yes 14 Dead Grandma's Society https://pinecast.com/guid/55dce3c7-0128-4b9e-b98b-b4e90bb6c972 Sat, 31 May 2025 21:36:44 -0000 00:55:00 What's a segue? https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/55dce3c7/dead-grandma-s-society Episode Summary

Olivia and Tanya got together in early 2024 to recap all that happened over their hiatus. And boy, did things happen.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • What happens when your client is going through it, and how that impacts therapy.
  • Post-game analysis: How oftentimes, we just need someone with us, as we experience hardship.
  • What a mature client-therapist relationship can look like
  • Move of the day: That feel when you hit a therapy skill in real life.

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic Drop
  • (2:50) - Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
  • (5:16) - Therapy training wheels come off
  • (8:25) - Post-game analysis
  • (18:53) - Training wheels come off, pt. 2
  • (28:26) - Bad vibes only
  • (32:00) - Repression? Or just changing gears?
  • (34:00) - Move of the day
  • (44:28) - Empathy/Compassion
  • (45:54) - Ender's Game

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes Episode 13 – Emotion is lotion - Ft. Miles Pruznick | Pt 1 https://pinecast.com/guid/c517742f-0361-4c26-a407-da6bfea0334b Sat, 31 May 2025 21:24:39 -0000 00:48:41 Maxin' your relaxin' https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/c517742f/emotion-is-lotion-ft-miles-pruznick-pt-1 Episode description

This is part one of our episode with Miles Pruznick, a certified strength and conditioning coach, massage therapist, strongman, jiujitsu brown belt, and all around movement enthusiast.

Also, he’s Olivia’s brother.

In this episode we talk about his background, his experience with physical and mental healing after injuries had him sidelined for over a year, and how the healing journey for both body and mind look virtually identical.

Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by guests on this podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast’s hosts, producers, or affiliated parties. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek independent professional advice before making any decisions based on the content discussed in this podcast.

Resources

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic Drop
  • (1:05) - Mile's background
  • (3:05) - Mind-body connection
  • (5:35) - Why do you stand funny on a basketball?
  • (8:13) - A year off of training
  • (21:07) - Mental health journey
  • (23:45) - First session
  • (33:11) - You can't heal what you hate
  • (36:14) - The buy-in
  • (43:56) - Brilliant at the basics

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Emotion is lotion - Ft. Miles Pruznick | Pt 1 yes 13 Groundhog Day https://pinecast.com/guid/7bc58d83-767c-4d6b-9dcf-6711d4b4c4eb Sat, 24 May 2025 21:56:13 -0000 00:46:10 Fuck, marry, kill: Waffles, pancakes, or French toast? https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/7bc58d83/groundhog-day Episode Summary

In this episode, Olivia and Tanya get into what it means to build trust with others. Oftentimes, we want to fast-track intimacy, and that often ends in pain and hurt. Olivia explains how she applies Brené Brown's concept of the "Trust Marbles" into her real life, and they also get into the beauty that is small talk. We even play a game of "Fuck, Marry, Kill" with breakfast foods!

Lastly, Olivia answers some reader questions about confronting one's abuser, and how to combat loneliness.

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic Drop
  • (2:08) - Guanxi
  • (3:30) - The Trust Marble Jar
  • (13:40) - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Pancakes, Waffles, French Toast
  • (21:40) - AMA Question #1: Loneliness
  • (30:20) - AMA Question #2: Confronting your abuser

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

]]> yes Bonus - Horsin' around with Amanda Slugoski, equine therapist https://pinecast.com/guid/4cf12143-3a6e-4a62-b01b-dfb1c5835dab Thu, 22 Aug 2024 00:34:09 -0000 00:16:04 Do horses need therapy after equine therapy? https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/4cf12143/bonus-horsin-around-with-amanda-slugoski-equine-therapist After our epic conversation (Ep. 12, go check it out!), Amanda Slugoski, equine therapist, stayed for a few minutes to answer a few questions.

In this bonus episode, she describes:

  • What is a safe state experience, and how animals can facilitate the rewiring of a traumatised nervous system
  • Do horses need to decompress after a therapy session, like their human counterparts?
  • How her relationship with horses changed, after she retired from competing in equestrian, to incorporating horses and equines into animal-assisted therapy
    • Learn more about Amanda and her therapy clinic at Equinox Therapeutic

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes bonus Equine-librium, ft. Amanda Slugoski, M.A. https://pinecast.com/guid/3d3bd2be-7270-4f23-b2e9-ed36f3d75ea6 Sat, 03 Aug 2024 14:39:05 -0000 01:00:55 A Trojan horse for healing. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/3d3bd2be/equine-librium-ft-amanda-slugoski-m-a- Episode Summary

Equine therapy; does it involve horses laying on a couch, talking about their fear of intimacy? Or is it therapy for humans, given by horses? Perhaps a therapist throw you on top of a horse and ask you about your relationship with your mother.

We wanted to know, so we contacted Amanda Slugoksi. She is a registered psychologist, and founder of Equinox Therapeutic, which provides both traditional and equine-assisted therapy to patients.

Amanda got into what equine therapy is, how it can bypass a lot of the hurdles that traditional therapists can face, such as the challenge of getting patients to open up, and how equine assisted therapy can act as a trojan horse for healing.

Resources

You can find Amanda and her team at Equinox Therapeutic or on Facebook, or Email

What is Equine-assisted Therapy?
Complex PTSD

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (01:18) - Intro to Amanda
  • (13:22) - First session
  • (19:06) - Experiential healing
  • (23:58) - Rapport building
  • (32:53) - How do you want to be with this?
  • (35:45) - Working with veterans
  • (38:37) - C-PTSD isn't a thing
  • (40:24) - C-PTSD apparently is in fact, a thing
  • (41:33) - N.B.
  • (46:30) - Why do the sessions start on the ground
  • (49:59) - Goal vs process
  • (53:33) - Big takeaways
  • (58:41) - Resources

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes Episode 11 – Am I doing therapy right, ft. Rob Murray | Pt. 2/2 https://pinecast.com/guid/53d25cdb-2a41-4a8c-af7c-c9db08941ce8 Sun, 07 Jul 2024 10:30:08 -0000 00:37:45 The last boss is a doozy. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/53d25cdb/am-i-doing-therapy-right-ft-rob-murray-pt-2-2 Episode Notes

To recap, the first episode talks about what events landed him in therapy, and what his first sessions felt like. In this episode, we get into topics such as what could have possibly led Rob to seek help sooner, the cyclical nature of our behaviour and beliefs, and the long-reaching effects of childhood trauma.

This was such an emotional, beautiful episode, and we are eternally grateful that Rob allowed us to share his story.

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (1:14) - What could have sped up going to therapy?
  • (3:57) - The home you carry with you
  • (12:32) - Protecting others from you
  • (13:42) - Little people are inside of Rob
  • (15:55) - What is anger hiding?
  • (19:46) - Arrested development
  • (25:13) - Trust from within
  • (32:51) - Therapists in therapy
  • (24:14) - Closing remarks

Show Notes

Internal Family Systems Therapy
Canadian Psychological Association Directory
You can find Rob at @RoboMurray on Instagram, or @RoboMurrayAirsoft on Youtube.

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Am I doing therapy right, ft. Rob Murray | Pt. 2/2 yes 11 Episode 11 – Am I doing therapy right? Ft. Rob Murray | Pt. 1/2 https://pinecast.com/guid/c5f3f9c1-6468-450b-9047-e34230034727 Sun, 30 Jun 2024 10:30:46 -0000 00:40:23 Reflections from a day-one therapy client. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/c5f3f9c1/am-i-doing-therapy-right-ft-rob-murray-pt-1-2 Episode Notes

Our mission at TIMT is to demystify what goes on in a therapy session, and to help others on their mental health and healing journey. Thing is, it's not very useful when it's just Tanya and Olivia talking about their respective experiences as a client; diversity is key.

So we invited Rob, aka Robo Murray onto the podcast to talk about his foray into seeking therapy. At the time, he just started this part of his healing journey, and we get into things such as:

  • What led him to realise that he needed help
  • Any misconceptions/preconceived notions did he have about therapy
  • How he chose a therapist
  • What his first few sessions were like

Rob spoke with immense bravery and throughout his recounting of the experiences that shaped him and licensed therapist Olivia provided both clinical and personal insight on what it feels like to step into the therapist's office for the first time.

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (1:48) - Rob's backstory
  • (4:29) - Watershed moment
  • (8:45) - Misconceptions
  • (10:27) - First session
  • (13:39) - Preferences in therapists
  • (15:16) - Skepticism
  • (18:55) - Where to begin?
  • (21:14) - Am I doing therapy right?
  • (30:53) - Where to start?
  • (34:52) - Intellectualising
  • (37:42) - Awareness is not healing

Show Notes

Internal Family Systems Therapy
Canadian Psychological Association Directory
You can find Rob at @RoboMurray on Instagram, or @RoboMurrayAirsoft on Youtube.

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Am I doing therapy right? Ft. Rob Murray | Pt. 1/2 yes 11 Episode 10 – Slow on the Intake (Tanya) https://pinecast.com/guid/8b9b5586-9483-4517-ae57-8ac13785a2a2 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:00:30 -0000 00:37:45 https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/8b9b5586/slow-on-the-intake-tanya- Episode Description

Stories are one of the most powerful ways for us to relate and teach others.

In this episode, co-host Tanya lays bare the experiences and events that led to her seeking mental health support. Through adversity such as physical abuse, bullying, racism, and toxic partners, Olivia and Tanya examine and discuss the motivations, and lessons learned. Furthermore, they talk about the process in finding the right therapist, and common pitfalls of how people often approach therapy.

Resources:

Key points

  • How corporal punishment is normalised in Asian immigrant families
  • Loss of social support and its impact
  • Explaining why children are being "manipulative"
  • Navigating the social stigma of seeking mental health support, and the driving motivations behind negative reactions from family and friends
  • Racism, bullying, and importance of finding safer spaces
  • Toxic relationships, both platonic and romantic
  • How sexism in psychological diagnoses impacts young women
  • Empowering clients

Chapters

  • (0:00) Mic Drop
  • (1:31) How do we start?
  • (3:34) This feels like an Intake
  • (7:49)"Manipulative kids"
  • (9:20) Deconstructing the intake
  • (10:39) Watershed moment
  • (11:33) Crabs in a bucket
  • (18:08) Therapist #1
  • (19:57) Therapist #2
  • (20:06) Borderline BS
  • (22:37) Therapist #3-6
  • (27:48) Stigma
  • (28:26) Closing remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Slow on the Intake (Tanya) yes 10 Mandatory Reporting https://pinecast.com/guid/d8b33290-eeac-4b37-a6e3-5a63883723ca Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0000 00:06:48 The ins and outs of what it takes to break confidentiality https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/d8b33290/mandatory-reporting "If[therapy] is a pyramid, confidentiality sits right at the base." podcast guest Kora, aka the Aviation Therapist explains how client confidentiality is sacrosanct to mental health professionals.

In this bonus episode, she and co-host Olivia explains the ins and outs of the mandatory reporting laws in their states, and a surprising factoid about how Olivia is required to warn an intended victim, in the state of New Jersey.

This was an excerpt from Ep.9 on mental health in the aviation industry; we felt it was so important, it deserved its own standalone episode.

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes bonus Episode 9 – Grounded: why pilots go radio silent about their mental health, ft. Kora the Aviation Therapist https://pinecast.com/guid/2489d5eb-bc05-4a9f-9374-3467cc1dd5c9 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 17:28:51 -0000 00:55:29 Mentally ill until proven well. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/2489d5eb/grounded-why-pilots-go-radio-silent-about-their-mental-health-ft-kora-the-aviation-therapist How do pilots navigate the landscape of mental wellness?

While pilots suffer the same stresses, setbacks, and issues as the rest of us, they're not comfortable with seeking professional help, because they risk having their wings clipped by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This leaves them between a rock and a hard place, and as a result, so many suffer in silence.

For Kora Kresin, (BA,MS), that doesn't fly with her.

A licensed therapist, she saw how people within the aviation industry feared losing their pilot's license if they spoke up about their mental health struggles. As a result, she founded Flight Deck Community, a life coaching service that helps aviation professionals learn to identify and address their stressors, as well as things such as psychology, mental health, veterans, family support/reunification, gender specific challenges, and trauma informed care.

Episode Topics

  • Why Kora became a therapist for pilots
  • The history and issues with FAA policies on mental health
  • Challenges faced by pilots and aviation professionals
  • How the regulations and culture prevent pilots from seeking help
  • The FAA's policies in theory vs in practise, and upcoming reforms

Resources

Chapters

  • (0:00) Mic Drop
  • (1:33) Meet Kora
  • (8:33) FAA 101
  • (14:37) Loop-de-Loophole
  • (22:16) Memes are the gateway drug
  • (25:56) Men & mental health in aviation industry
  • (27:16) Fly a mile in their shoes
  • (34:37) Written in blood
  • (37:39) Civilian vs Navy pilot care
  • (38:27) Rebranding mental health support
  • (41:07) Challenges of treating pilots
  • (45:00) Somatic symptoms in men
  • (50:53) "I'm the Home Depot"
  • (52:34) Resources

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Grounded: why pilots go radio silent about their mental health, ft. Kora the Aviation Therapist yes 9 Episode 8 – The Upward Spiral https://pinecast.com/guid/6c623a28-a81f-44a1-89df-0c96fa298fb0 Sat, 27 Jan 2024 15:00:41 -0000 00:36:14 It's all about that growth mindset. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/6c623a28/the-upward-spiral Episode Description

The term “Upward Spiral” was something Tanya coined, in regards to the process of progress. Oftentimes, she felt as though she kept repeating the same mistakes, over and over, but her therapist told me that she viewed it similarly to “circles on a record player.” That is, while similar situations may occur, every time we choose differently, we progress outward.

We also introduce a section called “General Banter,” which ended up turning into an epic discussion about infinity, and how we get mad at physics, so we are coining this one, “General Relativity Banter.”

Keywords

Trauma, trauma healing, PTSD, therapy, psychotherapy, talk therapy, mental health, jiujitsu, brazilian jiujitsu, bjj

Show Notes

Existential theory on Psychology today
"Radical Acceptance" - Tara Brach
Inner Parts work

Chapters

  • (0:00) - Mic drop
  • (1:21) - General relativity banter
  • (2:51) - Dropping shit
  • (6:05) - Existential box-related nightmares
  • (8:35) - Post-game analysis
  • (14:10) - Main topic
  • (34:10) - Closing remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> The Upward Spiral yes 8 Episode 7 – There's no crying in baseball chokes with guest Erin Herle. https://pinecast.com/guid/dbea180d-c66d-4ce2-aa02-08041645bdbd Wed, 27 Dec 2023 19:00:00 -0000 01:01:51 The gentle art of kindness and compassion, on the mats. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/dbea180d/there-s-no-crying-in-baseball-chokes-with-guest-erin-herle- According to coaches and society, crying is for weak babies who can't Do the Thing.

However, is it really a sign of weakness, or is it a valid emotional response to a high-intensity situation?

Erin Herle, BBJ Black belt, mental health advocate, and mental performance coach, has a lot to say on this topic, as she draws from her experience as a woman competitor in a male-dominated sport, and as a performance coach with a masters in sports psychology.

She also shares her experience in utilizing emotional intelligence in competitive BJJ as a coping mechanism for different emotional states.

And the main topic is a frank conversation about the importance of being trauma-informed in the world of jiu-jitsu, especially how gym owners and coaches could benefit from fostering a safe learning environment for students.

Her and Olivia, LPC, discusses the importance of recognizing and managing emotions in sports, especially in combat sports like Jiujitsu, where the proximity and full-contact can be extremely triggering for people, especially those who have experienced trauma or abuse. They also discuss fostering psychological safety in gyms can create an environment conducive to emotional health and better performance.

For anyone practising BJJ, this is a must-listen.

Chapters:

  • (00:00) Mic Drop
  • (1:55) Erin 101
  • (6:29) Emotional Regulation 101
  • (12:10) Adeline Gray
  • (14:05) The Bluest Belt
  • (19:01) Tools and tips for emotional regulation
  • (25:02) Being trauma-informed in BJJ
  • (26:47) Olivia's take
  • (29:34) Erin's take
  • (33:04) Psychological Safety
  • (35:39) Discernment
  • (43:46) Why gyms may be reluctant
  • (51:52) Navigating rumiunation
  • (55:09) 5 points of emotional appraisal
  • (57:46) Personal responsibility
  • (59:38) Closing remarks

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> There's no crying in baseball chokes with guest Erin Herle. yes 7 Walking wounded - First Responders & therapy https://pinecast.com/guid/241e991b-0927-49c5-b19d-d3ac935b2e41 Fri, 03 Nov 2023 01:36:26 -0000 00:08:42 Why it's so hard for the helpers to get help https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/241e991b/walking-wounded-first-responders-therapy Understanding the Psychological Challenges of First Responders

This discussion goes into the unique psychological challenges first responders face, touching on their need for specialized therapists who understand their lived experiences. Tanya reads a listener comment that reveals first responders often find their occupational trauma difficult to explain, and how minor incidents can often be more distressing than major disasters.

Therapy can help them manage their stress and professional trauma, even if the therapist hasn't lived the same experiences, as therapists can empathize and offer coping mechanisms. The importance of addressing personal life stresses, described as a 'bucket of burdens,' is highlighted, emphasizing the need for functional coping skills to maintain their mental health and perform their work effectively.

  • (00:00) Introduction to First Responders' Compassion
  • (00:17) Challenges of Therapy for First Responders
  • (00:50) First Responders' Unique Perspective
  • (01:19) The Role of Therapists in First Responders' Lives
  • (02:24) The Impact of the Job on First Responders' Lives
  • (03:18) The Importance of Support in Other Life Areas
  • (04:18) Understanding the Bucket Metaphor
  • (05:10) Strategies to Empty the Bucket

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes bonus Home(ostasis) for the Holidays https://pinecast.com/guid/3eed6f3f-82ca-465e-a1f9-b6227e22be25 Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:30:27 -0000 00:11:50 I went home for the holidays and all I got were these emotional scars. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/3eed6f3f/home-ostasis-for-the-holidays Surviving the Holidays

"This year will be different," we think to ourselves, as we've had a full 365 days in between the last time we endured the gauntlet of invasive questions about our dating lives, eating habits, and political views that is the Holiday Season.

Spoiler: It probably won't be.

That said, it doesn't have to end with you hiding in the bathroom, scarfing down handfuls of stolen sweet potato pie in an attempt to induce a food coma to avoid another excruciating minute with your family.

In this bonus episode of "Therapy is My Therapy" podcast, Familial Black Sheep Tanya begs licensed counsellor Olivia into giving her tips on how to survive the holiday season.

They explore setting boundaries, dealing with comments about body image, and navigating generational differences.

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes bonus Why did it have to be snakes? https://pinecast.com/guid/9e1791fe-858f-4d5e-9709-41ab67d6d9ba Wed, 11 Oct 2023 17:06:00 -0000 00:05:36 Mother Ayahuasca will give you a paddlin' if you disrespect her. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/9e1791fe/why-did-it-have-to-be-snakes- "We are not drugs, and we are tired of people thinking that." - Mother Ayahuasca

Join us in this special bonus episode as we delve into a transformative experience with Plant Medicine Facilitator, Dr. David Zwoboda, DPT.

Discover how a pivotal Ayahuasca encounter shattered preconceptions and revealed a deeper connection with consciousness. David shares personal insights, from breaking the rules of preparation to encountering the tobacco spirit, offering a unique perspective on the healing power of plant medicine. Plus, Tanya makes it weird by talking about dreams of going to school with no pants on.

Timestamps

  • (00:00:00) Introduction
  • (00:00:29) Understanding the Dietta and Ayahuasca Experience
  • (00:00:48) The Impact of Stricter Dietta Adherence
  • (00:01:22) The Profound Revelation: "We Are Not Drugs"
  • (00:02:38) The Influence of Mapacho: A Medicine Dream
  • (00:03:42) Connecting with the Tobacco Spirit
  • (00:04:03) Wisdom and Integration
  • (00:04:25)Messages from Dreams: A Shift in Perspective
  • (00:05:04) Conclusion

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes bonus Episode 5 – Hey! You got your plant medicine in my talk therapy! Ft. Dr. David Zwoboda https://pinecast.com/guid/f05226e3-45d5-4cb3-8c3e-0c86bc4d29b2 Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:07:26 -0000 00:49:08 Brains are complicated, souls infinitely moreso. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/f05226e3/hey-you-got-your-plant-medicine-in-my-talk-therapy-ft-dr-david-zwoboda Episode Summary

This episode features a conversation with Dr. David Zwoboda (DPT), a traditional physical therapist turned plant medicine healer. David discusses the role plant medicine played in his own mental health journey and how he unintentionally transitioned into the role of a psychedelic facilitator.

Together, Olivia and David explore how talk therapy and plant medicine can work both separately and in conjunction with each other to create sustainable change.

Tanya provides her own experience with both modalities and how they have impacted her.

Lastly, David discusses the importance of ethics in plant medicine, specifically in regard to honoring and respecting the indigenous communities where it originated.

Lastly, we aren't encouraging, nor discouraging psychedelic uses. Be aware of your local laws, and listen to the guidance of a trained professional when attempting to see through time and space.

Keywords

Plant therapy, psychedelic therapy, paul stamets, Hero dose, Ayahuasca, microdosing, colonialism, trauma, veteran PTSD, law enforcement, mental health

Chapters

(00:00) Mic drop
(1:13) Intro
(4:34) Impostor syndrome
(7:11) EMDR
(9:28) When therapy isn't helping
(11:05) Porque no los dos?
(12:56) Olivia's clients and plant medicine
(13:12) Clients gotta do the work
(13:59) Preparation, experience, integration
(16:58) This is your DMN on DMT
(19:24) Healing is rewriting
(21:01) Internal Family Systems
(25:02) Discernment in candidates
(29:32) Helping clients to ground
(30:06) Shapibo grounding tools
(33:22) Let's get weird
(33:38) Ayahuasca 101
(35:15) Maestro tools
(39:24) Ethics
(42:34) What was your feather?
(46:16) Closing remarks

Show Notes/Resources

Becoming Om - Mindful Microdosing
@davidzbjj on Instagram
Multidisciplinary Assoc. for Psychedelic Studies
Operation Flowstate Veterans/LEO-oriented BJJ + Plant medicine retreat

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Hey! You got your plant medicine in my talk therapy! Ft. Dr. David Zwoboda yes 5 Episode 4 – Therapist are human, after all https://pinecast.com/guid/829caef9-1c06-4643-b50d-f258fed8f83e Mon, 18 Sep 2023 16:15:00 -0000 00:40:00 Ordinary people doing extraordinary emotional lifting. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/829caef9/therapist-are-human-after-all

What happens when a therapist is sick, tired, or having a cursed day?

They can’t just call a substitute, like your science teacher did, that one time they got food poisoning.

Although Olivia can’t just phone the PE Teacher, and have them wheel in the TV and put on an episode of “Bill Nye the Science Guy”, she does have skills in her repertoire that allow her to remain present in order to hold space for her client.

Tanya discusses how once again, small things, all things; she initially thought the “Big T” Trauma would take front and centre of her sessions, but her therapist Katherine points out instances where damage was done, unbeknownst to her. She and Olivia then discuss at length how important it is for a therapist to be mindful of the cultural/socioeconomic/racial contexts of their clients, because it is crucial we don’t inadvertently “whitewash” someone’s story.

Also, Tanya and Olivia discuss how even just an hour of healthy guidance and attention, could change the trajectory of a child’s life; Tanya discusses the significance of how her kickboxing coach encouraged her, and what that did for her self-esteem and confidence.

Lastly, Olivia answers the question, “What happens when someone isn’t ready to go ‘_there_’ in therapy?" This episode is an illuminating look into the secret lives of a therapist, and hopefully, allows us to fully appreciate that these are ordinary humans, doing extraordinary emotional lifting.

Chapters

(00:00) Mic drop
(04:38) Therapists and reparenting
(11:36) Counter-transference
(14:40) When Olivia has cases very similar to her childhood
(16:50) What therapists do between sessions
(19:26) Keeping perspective
(20:26) Olivia is a literal strongman
(21:47) Micro/Macroaggressions
(27:02) Understanding the parents
(33:06) Safe spaces for kids
(34:52) When the client isn't ready
(38:59) Closing remarks

Keywords

Mental health, therapy, trauma therapy, PTSD, childhood trauma, trauma healing

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Therapist are human, after all yes 4 Bonus Episode - "BJJ is my therapy" & "I don't need therapy, I can just talk to my friends!" https://pinecast.com/guid/51610542-cee0-43d4-81dc-34c480d32f06 Tue, 05 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0000 00:05:42 Mental Gymnastics routines in avoiding Doing The Work https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/51610542/bonus-episode-bjj-is-my-therapy-i-don-t-need-therapy-i-can-just-talk-to-my-friends- Episode Notes

"Stop trying to make "BJJ is my therapy" happen, it's never going to happen."

Olivia and Tanya channel their inner Mean Girl and dissect and discuss how most BJJ grapplers are willing to spend 60 - 90 minutes simulating pyjama murder, but curiously, they aren't willing to sit in a room and talk to someone for 50 minutes.

Also, Olivia divulges what difficulties she can face in her friendships, if she's forced to put on her therapist hat and robe.

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> yes bonus Episode 3 – The cost of not feeling your feelings https://pinecast.com/guid/e6e261c8-3ea6-458b-8f5c-82a4c935c534 Fri, 01 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000 00:21:54 It's not always the hit to your wallet, that's the most devastating. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/e6e261c8/the-cost-of-not-feeling-your-feelings In this episode, co-hosts Tanya and Olivia discuss the cost of _not_ prioritizing your mental health, as well as the various ways therapy can act as preventative care instead of crisis management.

Olivia breaks down major barriers to getting started, including the high financial and emotional buy-in necessary to make progress in therapy.

Olivia also goes into the complexities of differentiating from your parents and how to step into who you want to be outside of what your family wants from you. Tanya shares her experience growing up with a mother who tried to shield her from hardship and discusses how that mindset unintentionally created a different kind of suffering.

Together, they explore the nuanced world of intergenerational trauma and navigate the process of sitting with ambivalence.

Chapters

(0:00) Mic Drop
(01:14) What's the cost of not doing therapy?
(02:18) Maslow's Hierarchy
(4:35) Feeling okay is priceless
(9:23) Being different than your parents
(9:37) Differentiation 101
(11:04) Hearing abuser's voices
(15:32) Parenting is hard
(16:48) Intergenerational trauma
(19:19) Closing remarks

Resources for further learning:

Glennon Doyle - Untamed

Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/timtpodcast/)

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> The cost of not feeling your feelings yes 3 Episode 2 – "I'm Emotionally chinny" https://pinecast.com/guid/28ac6c4a-ffff-4d5d-994a-18f01881eb12 Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:07:26 -0000 00:32:02 A high pain tolerance can come at a cost, when it comes to both physical and mental health. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/28ac6c4a/i-m-emotionally-chinny- Everyone has to pay the pain (pied) piper, eventually.

In this episode, co-host Tanya shares her experiences of being "emotionally chinny" and dissociating as a coping mechanism to handle trauma. With the support of her therapist, Katherine, Tanya delves into the transformative power of reconnecting with her body and emotions.

Co-host and licensed counselor Olivia Pruznick sheds light on the common disconnect between the mind and body and emphasizes the importance of embracing the full range of human emotions for deeper healing. She draws parallels to athletes' performances and the mind-body relationship, illustrating the significance of acknowledging bodily responses to trauma.

Tanya and Olivia explore the transformation from emotional resilience to vulnerability, recognizing that feeling the depths of grief and pain allows for a richer experience of joy and love. The episode delves into the challenging yet liberating process of tuning into one's emotions, unearthing buried feelings, and finding strength through vulnerability.

Chapters

(00:00) Mic drop
(1:36) Why does the body matter?
(2:55) Body awareness
(4:30) Tanya's first dissociative ep.
(6:08) Hendo's Chin
(7:39) Tanya's first breakdown
(9:14) Why feel?
(15:28) Why name emotions?
(19:38)Pain and sports pt. 2
(21:51) Happiness is scary
(22:58) Sad or depressed?
(27:14) The Marathon
(30:05) Fight Club

Resources for further reading

Building the Elite - a book/podcast created by former Navy SEALS, that discusses systems building, growth mindset, and strength and conditioning for resilience
Brene Brown - specifically her work on foreboding joy and how that relates to vulnerability 

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> "I'm Emotionally chinny" yes 2 Episode 1 – Small things, all things. https://pinecast.com/guid/e1b465d3-eafa-4d87-a69d-6c59bf0eea5e Fri, 11 Aug 2023 13:52:12 -0000 00:16:13 How you do anything is how you do everything. https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/e1b465d3/small-things-all-things- The only way to trust a therapist, is to let them in when you're vulnerable.

Co-hostTanya delves into the significance of inner child work, offering insights into the process of visualizing and comforting the wounded inner child as a means of healing and self-compassion. The discussion also highlights the common shame associated with past traumas and the scientific basis behind the perpetual fight-or-flight response triggered by PTSD.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on trauma, self-empowerment, and healing as we navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and reclaim our inner strength.

Chapters

(00:00) Mic drop
(1:58) Grounding
(7:35) Dr. Pimple Popper
(10:20) Small things, all things
(13:19) Further, faster

Resources for further reading

Good Will Hunting scene analyzed by “Cinema Therapy”
The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk
IFS, Richard Schwartz

Find out more at http://therapyismytherapy.co

Read transcript

]]> Small things, all things. yes 1 TIMT Trailer https://pinecast.com/guid/bf57f4a3-69c0-4ba4-bb74-a4dc58f0c0c5 Tue, 01 Aug 2023 01:25:59 -0000 00:00:46 https://therapyismytherapy.co/episode/bf57f4a3/timt-trailer In this trailer for "Therapy is my Therapy", hosts Olivia Pruznick and Tanya Lam delve into an often overlooked aspect of pain tolerance – its potential downsides. While having a high pain threshold is often admired as a sign of resilience in domains like athletics and martial arts, there's a darker side that merits exploration.

Episode one drops mid-August, so stay posted. We're excited to delve deep, and make therapy a bit less intimidating.

Music credit: Love Feels - Ryan Little Released June 13, 2023 iamryanlittle@gmail.com

]]> yes trailer