Storytelling as Medicine: Decolonizing Therapy with José Rosario (282)

Join host Sue Marriott and guest Dr. Sean Inderbitzen - an autistic psychotherapist and advocate for neurodiversity - as he shares his powerful personal and professional journey in understanding autism. Together, they explore the evolution of autism diagnosis, the intersections between attachment and neurodivergence, and how polyvagal theory can both illuminate and complicate the autistic experience. Dr. Inderbitzen offers insights on self-diagnosis, identity formation, and what truly person-centered therapy looks like for autistic individuals. This conversation highlights the central role of trust, safety, and authentic connection in helping neurodivergent clients thrive. You can view the full shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU283.

José Rosario shares the transformative role of storytelling in healing and liberation. He invites therapists to move beyond traditional coping frameworks and embrace radical healing - an approach that centers cultural wisdom, intersectional identity, and community empowerment. Together, Sue and José discuss how clinicians can respond to hate-based violence, recognize collective trauma, and actively dismantle systems of harm. José also shares his personal journey toward self-acceptance and the playful practices that sustain his work, offering inspiration for those seeking to uplift marginalized voices through creativity and connection. Listen to the full episode now at TherapistUncensored.com/TU282

Dr. Ann Kelley sits down with Dr. Bill Doherty to explore the idea of “Citizen Therapists” and how therapists — and all of us — can help bridge divides in a polarized world. Together, they dive into discernment counseling for couples on the brink of divorce, the groundbreaking work of Braver Angels in fostering dialogue across political differences, and the skills we all need for hard but healing conversations. This conversation highlights the power of curiosity, respectful boundaries, and understanding - whether in our closest relationships or across society. View the full episode show notes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU281

Ann Kelley and Diana Hill dive into the concept of wise effort and its impact on how we manage our energy in both personal and professional life. They explore the difference between life force energy and anxiety, the role of emotional sensitivity, and why community resilience matters. Diana shares insights on how to wisely channel your “genius energy,” break free from stuck patterns, and cultivate compassionate connections that support growth and balance. Listen to the full episode at TherapistUncensored.com/TU280

Benjamin Fry, a mental health professional and founder of Khiron Clinics joins Sue Marriott as he shares his personal journey through trauma, and how his experiences shaped his personal and professional approach to therapy. From the establishment of his clinic, to innovative treatment modalities like EMDR and somatic experiencing - which further led to the introduction of the PhysioCam, a tool designed to help clients visualize their nervous system states. With the ever evolving world of technology and mental health, together they emphasize the importance of psychoeducation and accessibility in mental health care, aiming to provide hope and resources for those in need. View the full episode's shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU279

In this half of the conversation, Rebecca Kase and the Sue dig deeper into the concept of interoception, emphasizing its significance in therapy and personal well-being. They discuss how our physiological states influence our narratives and the importance of breath in regulating these states. From the roles of implicit and explicit memory in shaping our experiences to how adaptive and maladaptive memories affect our mental health, they highlight therapeutic approaches to updating narratives and the journey of healing and resilience, providing practical tools for therapists and resources for further learning. View the full episode shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU278

Dr. Ann Kelley and expert Judith Matz unpack the complex relationship between dieting, emotional eating, body image, and weight stigma. Together they challenge conventional views on weight and health, emphasizing that fitness matters more than the number on the scale, and explores why most diets fail both psychologically and physiologically. They also cover the historical roots of fatphobia, the dangers of weight bias in healthcare, and the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic. Judith highlights the importance of attuned eating, informed consent, and compassionate care, offering a weight-inclusive approach to healing our relationship with food and body. View full episode shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU277

If you’re tired of cancel culture but still care about justice - this conversation is for you In 2022, we had the privilege of having Loretta J. Ross on the podcast to discuss "Calling in the Call Out Culture". With the publication of her new book, "Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You'd Rather Cancel" - we felt this message was just as relevant as ever. Together, Sue Marriott and Loretta J. Ross explore the themes of social justice, empathy, and the importance of dialogue in navigating political divides. Loretta shares insights from her book, discussing the need for compassion and under standing in activism. They delve into the complexities of human relationships, the balance between calling in and calling out, and the significance of individual experiences in shaping political views. The conversation emphasizes the power of community engagement and the role of personal growth in fostering a more just society. View this episodes shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU276 and join our premium online community for bonus content at TherapistUncensored.com/Join

Dr. Kenneth V. Hardy shares his personal journey and deep professional insights on race, trauma, and cultivating racial sensitivity in therapy. He explores the “invisible wounds” carried by people of color, urging therapists to critically examine their own privilege and biases. Dr. Hardy introduces his VCR mode - a practical framework for navigating difficult conversations about race - and underscores the vital role of hope in sustaining diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. View the full episode shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU275

Sue Marriott is joined by Rebecca Kase to explore how understanding the nervous system—especially the concept of interoception—can support healing from trauma. Rebecca shares her personal story as a survivor and highlights the importance of creating safety, tuning into the body’s internal signals, and approaching somatic work with compassion. Together, they unpack how interoception differs from general perception, why it matters in therapy, and how small, gradual steps can help rebuild connection with the body. View full shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU274.