Afleveringen
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What if your therapist just gets it and you donât have to explain everything from scratch?
Thatâs what this episode is all about. I sat down with Tham Fuyana, Social Worker family Therapist and Educator, to talk about what itâs like navigating therapy as a BIPOC client.
BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous, and people/ person of colour
In this episode, Tham shares his reflections growing up as a Black migrant, navigating services that didnât always see him, and why representation in therapy matters.
Key takeawaysWhat people mean when they talk about âfinding a BIPOC therapistâWhy itâs not just about matching identities but understanding lived experienceHow intersectionality shows up in the therapy roomThe emotional cost of constantly having to explain your backgroundWhat makes some clients feel safer and more understoodThe layers of distrust that come from experiences with police, migration and health systemsHow a sense of collective identity can offer comfort and where it can be complexThe importance of cultural humility and curiosity in therapeutic workIf this conversation sparked something for you, whether youâre a client looking for support or a professional thinking about your own practice, keep the momentum going. Share it with someone who needs to hear it, have the hard chats and take a look at whoâs in the room with you. Because who we sit with matters.
ResourcesThe Therapy Hub
www.thetherapyhub.com.au
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
Connect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Do you ever feel like you're just not good enough, even when you're doing all the right things? In this conversation with psychologist Belinda Gibson, we explore the roots of that persistent feeling of inadequacy. We unpack how perfectionism, people-pleasing and harsh self-talk can sneak into our lives and affect our relationships, even when we donât realise it.
We talk about where these beliefs start, how they show up, and what you can do to respond differently. If youâve ever struggled with feeling like youâre not enough, this episode offers insight, reflection and a reminder that youâre not alone.
What We Cover:
Why feelings of not being good enough are more common than you thinkHow perfectionism can mask deeper self-doubtWays to recognise when harsh self-criticism is running the showHow these patterns show up in relationshipsPractical ways to respond with more curiosity and compassionResources Mentioned
https://self-compassion.org/
Books
Brene Brown The Gifts of Imperfection
About Belinda
Belinda is a registered Psychologist and Gestalt Psychotherapist, and is the founder and director of Footscray Counselling Centre, where she provides individual, couples and groups with relationally orientated psychotherapy supervision and therapy.
Belinda also works as a consultant to various academic and medical organisations, facilitating reflective group practice, training workshops and supervision.
https://footscraycounsellingcentre.com.au/
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Do you overthink everything? Lie awake, running through worst-case scenarios?
Worry can be exhausting. It often shows up as planning, perfectionism, or a loop of âwhat ifâ thoughts that are hard to switch off. In this episode, Iâm joined by clinical psychologist Dr Lillian Nejad to talk about what worry really is, how it differs from anxiety, and why some people find it so difficult to stop.
We explore how worry can sometimes be helpful, when it becomes unhelpful, and what it looks like in everyday life. Lillian shares simple tools to reduce the impact of worry and explains how her app, Contain Your Brain, can support clearer thinking and greater emotional control.
About my guest
Dr Lillian Nejad is a clinical psychologist who supports people to manage anxiety, stress, and sleep. She is the creator of the Contain Your Brain app and founder of Skills for Life, an online hub offering practical mental health resources.
In this episode, we cover
⢠What worry is and how it differs from anxiety
⢠Why we worry and how to recognise when it becomes unhelpful
⢠The three types of worry: solvable, unsolvable, and self-resolving
⢠How worry can impact sleep, concentration, and relationships
⢠Why some people confuse worrying with caring
⢠Tools to manage worry without suppressing emotion
⢠Signs it might be time to seek professional support
Resources
Contain Your Brain app is available on iOS and Android
Find out more at containyourbrain.com and drlilliannejad.com
Insta
@containyourbrain
@drlilliannejad
Connect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
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What happens when society changes faster than young people can adapt?
Iâm joined by psychologist Jamie Maserow to explore the hidden impacts of lockdowns, remote learning and technology on young peopleâs wellbeing. We unpack how the disruptions of recent years have shaped mental health, learning, and relationships, and why connection needs to come before correction.
We also talk about why many traditional parenting approaches might not meet the needs of young people today, and what it looks like to build resilience through strong, consistent relationships.
Key takeaways:
How early learning gaps during lockdowns created lasting impactsThe rise of ADHD and autism diagnoses post-pandemicWhy online connection doesnât replace real-world relationshipsThe risks of mislabelling distress as a mental illnessWhy healthy boundaries and parental consistency are criticalHow social media affects young people's sleep, stress and self-esteemWhen therapy helps and why forcing it can backfirePractical ways parents and carers can reconnect meaningfullyResources:
đ10 Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child's Mental Health by Bill Garveyđ§Pop Culture Parenting PodcastThe Therapist in Therapy - Jamie MaserowContact Jamie Maserow, Psychologist, Author, Yoga Teacher
Website: jamiemaserow.com
IG: @the.therapist.in.therapy
Email: [email protected]
If youâre a parent, educator, or anyone supporting young people and you're wondering why things feel harder than they used to, this episode is for you. Itâs not about getting everything right, itâs about showing up, staying connected, and being willing to have the conversations that matter.
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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What if one partner wants to work on the relationship and the other isnât sure they want to stay?
In this episode, I talk with therapist Anne Carter about discernment counselling, a structured and supportive process for couples where one or both partners are ambivalent about staying together.
We explore what makes this approach different from traditional couples therapy and how it helps couples make intentional, informed decisions,with whether thatâs to repair the relationship or separate with clarity and respect.
Key takeaways:
What discernment counselling is and who itâs forThe difference between traditional couples therapy and discernment counsellingWhat often brings couples to this crossroadsThe three pathways couples might take after discernment counsellingHow to recognise if discernment counselling is right for your relationshipWhy ambivalence needs space, not pressure to shiftWhat therapists should consider when working with mixed agenda couplesIf youâre feeling stuck in your relationship or navigating mixed intentions about staying or leaving, check out this episode. Whether youâre the one leaning out or leaning in, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into what comes next and how to move forward with clarity.
Resources:
https://www.gottman.com/Contact Anne Carter, Certified Gottman Therapist and Certified Discernment Counsellor.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.welloflife.com.au
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Wondering if your relationship should involve more sex or comparing yourself to what you think is normal? You're not alone. Many couples quietly struggle with mismatched desire, emotional disconnection or unclear expectations about what intimacy should look like.
In this episode, I talk about what it really means to not be having enough sex, how responsive desire plays a role in long-term relationships, and why connection doesnât always come from frequency.
This one is honest, awkward in all the right ways and full of practical ways to start talking about sex in a way that brings you closer, not further apart.
Key takeaways:
Why mismatched desire is more common than you thinkWhat the difference is between spontaneous and responsive desireHow shame, stress, and resentment affect libidoWhy ânot enough sexâ often isn't about sex at allHow to talk about desire and initiate without pressureThe myth of ânormalâ frequency in relationshipsThe dual control model: brakes, accelerators, and contextWhat couples can learn from Emily Nagoskiâs work?If this episode sounds like something you or your partner need to hear, share it with them. Sex is just one way we connect but the conversation around it can be the most meaningful part.
Resources:
Emily Nagoski â Come As You Are
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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What happens when love meets change? In this episode we explore the unique challenges and strengths of queer and gender diverse relationships, especially when one partner is transitioning. Therapist Jani Forest Wyatt joins me to unpack the myths, the moments of growth, and the importance of inclusive and affirming couples therapy.
Jani shares insights from both professional and personal experience, from working with Gottman informed couples therapy to challenging stigma in broader social systems. This oneâs thoughtful, grounding and full of truth bombs that might change how you think about love, identity and connection.
Key takeaways:How Janiâs early experiences shaped her path to supporting transgender clientsWhat Gottman informed therapy looks like when working with queer couplesThe unique stressors queer and trans couples face in therapyMyths about relationships ânot lastingâ after a partner transitionsThe impact of societal judgement on trans individuals and their relationshipsWhy acceptance and emotional safety are key to relationship successHow clinicians can better support trans clients in intimate relationshipsThe power of personal motivation in shaping professional practice
Resources:The Gottman InstituteAustralian Association of Social WorkersRainbow Health AustraliaIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Contact Jani Forest-Wyatt - Learn more about her work:
www.brilliancecounselling.com.au
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Thereâs a lot of advice about what to do to build a strong relationship. But what about the things emotionally healthy couples donât do?
Join me, Marie Vakakis, a therapist, mental health, and relationships educator. In this episode, I explore six common habits that can damage trust, connection, and communicationâand why avoiding them can make a big difference.
Key takeaways:
Sarcasm, eye-rolling, and small put-downs erode trust over time.Name-calling and labelling create emotional distance.Venting to friends instead of addressing issues can reinforce resentment.The silent treatment damages trust and communication.Forgetting milestones isnât about the big gesturesâitâs about showing care.Expecting one person to meet all emotional needs puts too much pressure on a relationship.If any of these sound familiar, youâre not aloneâand itâs never too late to shift unhelpful patterns.
If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Ever caught yourself thinking, "They should just know what I need"? Unspoken expectations are one of the biggest sources of frustration in relationships. When our partners donât automatically meet our needs, it can leave us feeling unheard, unloved, or even resentful. But hereâs the thingâexpecting someone to read your mind rarely works.
Join me, Marie Vakakis, and my guest, psychotherapist Tracy Proud, as we explore why we struggle to express our needs, how childhood experiences shape our relationship patterns, and what happens when we expect our partners to "just know."
Key Takeaways:
Many of our expectations in relationships are shaped by early experiences, often without us realising it.Assuming our partners should "just know" what we need can lead to frustration and resentment.Open, honest communication is essential for expressing needs and strengthening connection.Conflict isnât usually about the surface issueâthereâs often a deeper meaning behind it.Understanding each otherâs perspectives helps break unhealthy patterns and fosters emotional intimacy.Resources:
The Gottman Institute â Research-backed insights into relationship dynamics.Growing Yourself Up by Dr. Jenny Brown â A key resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships through the lens of family systems theory.If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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In tough times, joy can feel out of reach. But sometimes, a single shared laugh has the power to lift the weight of the worldâeven in a hospital room, a funeral, or a difficult conversation.
In this special episode, Iâm adding my voice to Podcasthon , a global movement of over 1,600 shows across 47 countries. Instead of just mentioning a charity at the end, I wanted to go deeper and dedicate this episode to the incredible work of Clown Doctorsâspecially trained performers who bring laughter into hospitals to ease anxiety and pain.
Together, weâll explore what laughter does to our bodies and our relationships, why it matters so much in hard moments, and how we can all make space for more playfulness in everyday life.
Episode Summary
This episode is a warm and science-backed reflection on the power of laughterâhow it supports our mental health, deepens connection, and even has physical benefits. I talk about the inspiring work of Clown Doctors in Australia, how humour can be a tool for emotional repair, and why laughter belongs in even the most serious spaces.
Key Takeaways
Laughter triggers feel-good chemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin, reducing pain and improving connectionScientific research shows laughter can reduce cortisol (our stress hormone) by up to 32%Humour can strengthen relationships, ease conflict, and build trust, especially with teens and in familiesClown Doctors Australia use laughter as a tool in hospitals to reduce anxiety and support healingLaughter helps us regulate our emotions and reconnect with others, especially in high-stress momentsSharing a laugh can shift the tone in difficult conversations and promote closenessWe can intentionally create more opportunities for laughter in everyday lifePlayful momentsâeven small onesâcan offer relief, connection, and a sense of hopehttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37220157/
https://humourfoundation.org.au/clown-doctors/
https://www.podcasthon.org/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Ever feel like you and your partner are just co-existing rather than truly connecting? Maybe your conversations revolve around schedules, bills, and logistics, rather than shared experiences and meaningful moments.
Join me, Marie Vakakis, therapist, mental health and relationships educator, as I share why friendship is the foundation of a strong relationship, how couples drift apart over time, and most importantly, how to rebuild connection and intimacy when you feel like housemates rather than partners.
Key Takeaways:Friendship in a relationship creates trust, emotional safety, and longevity.Couples often drift apart due to stress, routine, and lack of prioritisation.Rebuilding connection starts with curiosity, shared activities, and appreciation.Conflict is inevitable, but handling it as teammates rather than opponents strengthens relationships.Small moments of connectionâlike humour, deep conversations, and prioritising funâcan reignite friendship.If your relationship feels more like a routine than a partnership, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to shift from housemates back to best friends.
Resources:
Bids for Connection â Recognising and responding to bids for connection in relationships.The Gottman Institute â Research-based insights on building strong relationships.If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Couples therapy isnât just about fixing relationship problemsâit can also play a huge role in improving mental health. Many people think of therapy as a last resort when things are falling apart, but research shows that relationship support can also help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional regulation.
Iâm joined by Trish Purnell-Webb, a clinical psychologist, certified Gottman therapist, and trainer for the Gottman Institute, to discuss how couples therapy strengthens connection and supports mental well-being.
Key TakeawaysCouples therapy can lead to better mental health outcomes than individual therapy in some cases.A strong, supportive relationship can help regulate emotions and ease stress.Many people with mental health struggles feel isolatedâeven in relationships.Learning skills like emotional attunement and validation can reduce distress.Therapy teaches couples how to navigate challenges together rather than suffering alone.
ResourcesThe Gottman Instituteâs research on couples therapy effectiveness â www.gottman.comEmotionally Focused Therapy by Sue JohnsonIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Contact Trish Purnell-Webb:
www.trishpurnell-webb.com.au
www.relationshipinstitute.com.au
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Ever had a small disagreement spiral into a huge argument? Maybe it started with an eye-roll, a forgotten text, or a messy kitchen bench. Suddenly, itâs not about the dishesâitâs about feeling unheard, unappreciated, or disconnected.
Join me, Marie Vakakis, a therapist, mental health, and relationships educator. In this episode, I unpack why small fights often mask deeper issues, how to tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy conflict, and ways to handle disagreements that strengthen connection rather than push you apart.
Key takeaways:Conflict isnât just about the argumentâitâs about the deeper needs and emotions underneath it.Small issues left unresolved can build into resentment and disconnection.Healthy conflict strengthens trust, while unhealthy conflict creates emotional distance.The Four Horsemenâcriticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewallingâcan erode trust if left unchecked.Repairing after a disagreement is more important than avoiding conflict altogether.The way we handle fights can bring us closer or push us further apart.If youâre interested in how to approach conflict in a way that builds connection rather than breaks it down, check out Episode 52 â Itâs Not About the FightâItâs How You Fight.
Resources:The Gottman Institute â www.gottman.comIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Many couples only seek therapy when their relationship is already in serious trouble. But by the time they reach out, years of unresolved issues, built-up resentment, and unhealthy patterns can make it harder to repair their connection. So, what happens when couples wait too long to get support, and why is early intervention so important?
Join me Marie Vakakis, a therapist, and mental health and relationships educator and Michelle Janssen as we discuss why couples therapy isnât just for relationships in crisis, how waiting too long can make healing more difficult, and how seeking support earlier can lead to better outcomes.
Key takeawaysCouples often wait an average of six years before seeking therapy, allowing issues to worsen.Therapy is most effective when couples seek support before problems escalate.Unresolved conflicts, resentment, and miscommunication can become deeply ingrained over time.Many couples donât seek therapy due to stigma, fear, or the belief that things will improve on their own.Small issues left unaddressed can turn into significant relationship challenges.The earlier couples get support, the more tools they have to strengthen their relationship.Therapy isnât about fixing a broken relationshipâitâs about learning better ways to connect and communicate.
ResourcesThe Gottman Instituteâs research on couples therapy effectiveness â www.gottman.com Four horseman Art and science of love workshopsIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Contact Michelle Janssen
https://www.brisbanecouplescounselling.com/
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Why do we keep having the same fight?
It can feel frustrating when the same arguments keep coming up. But conflict is not the problem. It is how we handle it that makes the difference. Research shows that most relationship conflicts are ongoing, yet avoiding them only builds resentment. The good news is that conflict, when managed well, can actually strengthen trust and connection.
I am Marie Vakakis, a therapist, mental health and relationships educator. In this episode, I explore why conflict is normal, how small miscommunications can turn into bigger issues, and how curiosity, empathy and repair can help you navigate difficult conversations with your partner.
Key takeawaysConflict is a normal and healthy part of relationshipsAvoiding difficult conversations does not make issues disappearSeventy percent of relationship conflicts are ongoing and unsolvableHow you approach conflict shapes trust and connectionRepairing after a disagreement is more important than never fightingWords, tone and active listening all play a role in resolving tensionSome people argue to be right, others to connect or feel in controlAsking questions with curiosity can lead to deeper understanding
Resources⢠Gottman Institute research on conflict in relationships â www.gottman.com
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. I would love to hear your thoughts, so reach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Have you ever wondered when the right time is to try couples therapy? Or if you even need a major issue to start? Many people hesitate to seek support for their relationship, often waiting years before getting helpâsometimes even separating without exploring their options.
Today, weâre tackling the most common questions about couples therapy, from how to know if itâs right for you to what actually happens in a session. Joining me is Anne, my practice manager and the person who keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Anne has gathered real questions from clients, friends, and people curious about what happens in couples therapy.
Weâre covering everything from whether you need to forgive past mistakes to what to do if your partner refuses to come. And yes, we even get into the weirdest things couples have fought about in my sessions (spoiler: toilet paper placement can be a deal-breaker for some!).
Key Takeaways:
⢠When to seek therapy: You donât need a crisis to startâtherapy can help at any stage, including as a preventative step.
⢠How couples therapy works: From assessments to interventions, we break down what actually happens in a session.
⢠What if my partner wonât go? Tips for approaching the conversation and increasing the chances theyâll say yes.
⢠Affairs, open relationships, and trust: Can couples therapy help rebuild after betrayal or navigate non-traditional relationships?
⢠The Gottman Method: Why I use it, and how science-backed assessments help guide therapy.
⢠Traditional vs. Marathon Therapy: The difference between weekly sessions and intensive two- or three-day programs.
⢠How long does it take? Realistic expectations for therapy length and why a âquick fixâ isnât always the best approach.
⢠Ground rules for therapy: Whatâs acceptable (venting frustrations) and whatâs not (secret-keeping, name-calling).
⢠Handling conflict: How understanding your partnerâs background can completely shift a heated debate.
⢠Secrets in relationships: Whatâs okay to keep private and what could be damaging to your connection.
Resources Mentioned:
đ The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work â John & Julie Gottman
đ Eight Dates: Essential Conversations for a Lifetime of Love â John & Julie Gottman
đ Hold Me Tight â Sue Johnson
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. And if you have a question about couples therapy that we didnât answer, send it inâwe might tackle it in a future episode!
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Have you ever wondered why grief feels so isolating?
Many people expect grief to follow a straight path, something to "move on" from after a set amount of time. The reality is far more complex. In this episode, I sit down with psychologist and grief researcher Liam Spicer to explore what grief is, the myths that surround it, and how we can better support ourselves and others through loss.
Grief is a universal human experience, yet so many of us struggle to talk about it openly. In this conversation, Liam shares insights from his work and personal experiences, breaking down common misconceptions about grief and bereavement. We discuss how grief extends beyond the loss of a loved one, why thereâs no "right way" to grieve, and the role of connection in healing.
Key TakeawaysGrief isnât something you "get over"âit changes shape, but it doesnât disappear.Thereâs no single timeline or correct way to grieve. Everyoneâs experience is unique.Grief isnât just about deathâit can be triggered by life changes, lost opportunities, or even a shift in identity.Societal expectations can make grief harder by pressuring people to âmove onâ too quickly.Supporting someone who is grieving doesnât mean having the perfect wordsâsometimes, just showing up is enough.Guilt about feeling happy again is common, but it doesnât mean youâve forgotten your loved one.There are ways to maintain a connection with someone youâve lost, which can help with healing.
ResourcesAustralian Centre for Grief and Bereavement â Fact sheets, resources, and support for grief.The Grieving Brain by Mary-Frances O'Connor â A science-based look at how grief affects us.It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine â A compassionate guide for navigating grief.Liam Spicerâs Website- Find out more about Liam's work and research Liamâs Instagram https://www.instagram.com/liamspicer_/ [email protected]Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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How Past Experiences Shape Our Lives
Why do certain situations trigger such strong emotions? Katheryn Eberly, a mental health social worker and family therapist, joins me to explore how early experiences shape our beliefs, why past wounds still affect us, and how we can start to shift unhelpful patterns.
Key TakeawaysTrauma affects how we see ourselves and respond to stress."Big T" trauma stems from major events, while "little t" trauma comes from repeated distressing experiences.Core beliefs like "I'm not good enough" often develop in childhood.Emotional reactions in daily life can signal deeper unresolved experiences.Recognising patterns can help shift automatic responses.
Resources MentionedWhat Happened to You? â Bruce Perry & Oprah WinfreySelf-compassion work by Kristin NeffPrevious episode: âIâm Not Good EnoughConnect with Kathryn
https://restoringfamilies.com.au/
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ďťżConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Have you ever wondered if your goals truly reflect whatâs most important to you? In this episode, clinical psychologist Patch Callahan joins me to break down the difference between values and goals and why living by your values is the key to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
We explore how to uncover your core values, navigate challenges in defining them, and integrate them into your everyday decisions. Whether youâre reevaluating your priorities for the new year or seeking deeper alignment in life, this episode offers practical insights to help you connect with what truly matters.
Episode SummaryPatch Callahan shares the transformative power of values, particularly in the context of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We discuss how values differ from goals, why they matter, and actionable steps to define and live by them. Tune in to discover how aligning your life with your values can lead to greater purpose and authenticity.
Key Takeaways
⢠Values vs. Goals: Values guide your actions and choices, providing meaning, while goals are specific targets or achievements.
⢠Why Values Matter: Living according to your values fosters authenticity and a sense of purpose.
Defining Your Values:
⢠Reflect on key life domains: family, relationships, work, health, and leisure.
⢠Identify whatâs deeply important to you within each domain.
⢠Narrow your focus to 5â6 core values that resonate most.
⢠Challenges in Identifying Values: Overcoming confusion or uncertainty requires reflection, experimentation, and sometimes professional support.
⢠Practical Tips for Value-Based Living:
⢠Use discomfort as a guideâit often points to what matters most.
⢠Prioritise decisions that align with your core principles.
⢠Build psychological flexibility to stay committed to your values even when faced with challenges.
Resources
Bullseye Activity: A practical tool for clarifying and connecting with your values. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FOEsnX87HoLearn More About Patch Callahan: Patchâs Bio and ServicesIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone reflecting on their priorities this year! Donât forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation about living with purpose.
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Have you ever found yourself questioning your drinking habits or wondering why alcohol feels so deeply woven into our social lives? This episode will inspire you to take a closer look at addiction, coping strategies, and the pressures around drinking.
In this episode, I sit down with psychologist Tara Hurster, an expert in addiction and substance use, to challenge the myths surrounding addiction and explore how we can make healthier, more intentional choices. From practical tools like the HALT method to navigating sober dating, Tara offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to change their relationship with alcohol.
What We Cover in This Episode
Understanding Addiction Beyond the Myths
Addiction isnât about weakness or moral failure; itâs a learned way to cope with lifeâs stresses and traumas.
Tara shares her journey from supporting peers in high school to becoming an addiction specialist.
Addiction Isnât a Disease
Addiction is not a disease or a moral failingâitâs a behavioural response to stress and emotions.
Tara recounts her experiences working in an inpatient psychiatric hospital and how they shaped her views.
Practical Strategies for Managing Substance Use
The HALT method: Are you Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? Tara adds âHydratedâ and âHealthâ to the mix for a more holistic approach.
Tara explains how checking in with these needs can prevent mindless behaviours, like reaching for a drink.
Navigating Social Pressures Around Alcohol
Simple strategies for declining a drink, from âIâm not drinking todayâ to a white lie like âIâm on antibiotics.â
Setting boundaries is okay and can help you maintain your goals.
Sober Dating: Building Authentic Connections
Tips for enjoying dates without alcohol and focusing on meaningful connections.
Tara introduces the FRIES acronym: Freely Given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific, to help with decision-making in dating and intimacy.
The Sober Curious Movement
A growing trend encouraging people to question their relationship with alcohol. Younger generations are leading the charge by embracing life without booze.
Resources Mentioned
Alcohol and Drug Information Service: Call 1800 250 015 or visit ADIS Website
Connect with Tara Hurster:
Website: Tara Clinic
Instagram: @TaraHurster
Enjoyed the Episode?
If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform. It helps others discover the show and keeps me inspired to create more conversations like this. Donât forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who might benefit!
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