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The Thoughtful Counselor

The Thoughful Counselor Team

The Thoughtful Counselor is a podcast that is dedicated to producing great conversations around current topics in counseling and psychotherapy. We view counseling and psychotherapy as a deeply beautiful and complex process and strive to incorporate the art and science of the field in each episode.

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25 episodes
monthly
Avg 52 min
English

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Monday · 35 min
EP322: Why the Strong Black Woman Schema Remains Relevant: What Counselors Need to Know
Join Dr. LaToya Smith and Dr. Donya Wallace, licensed professional counselors and counselor educators, to learn why the Strong Black Woman Schema remains relevant for professional counselors and all mental health providers working with Black and African American identifying women. Drs. Smith and Wallace define the Strong Black Woman schema and offer practical strategies, based on their clinical experiences and research findings, that counselors can implement in session. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
October 23 · 44 min
EP321: Gender-Affirming Care in Professional Counseling
In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Drs. Anneliese Singh (she/they) and Sand Chang (they/them) to discuss their new book A Clinician's Guide to Gender-Affirming Care (2nd ed.). Anneliese, Sand, and contributing host Dr. Theo Burnes discuss unique strategies and tips for integrating gender-affirming care and liberation into the multiple work domains of professional counseling. Topics addressed include centering the deconstruction of the gender binary in practice, writing books as a professional counselor, and tips and strategies for counseling practice. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
September 7 · 38 min
EP320: A Counselor's Guide to Pediatric Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapist Kristi Harris joins Margaret Lamar to explore how understanding a child's sensory system can transform the way counselors, parents, and educators respond to challenging behaviors. Together they discuss the "hidden senses" of proprioception, vestibular processing, and interoception, and why so many behaviors that appear oppositional are actually signs of dysregulation or sensory overwhelm. Kristi offers practical guidance for recognizing when occupational therapy may be an appropriate referral and highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration between counselors and occupational therapists. Whether you work with children in schools, private practice, or community settings, this conversation offers a fresh lens for understanding behavior through the body. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
August 24 · 1 hr 35 min
EP319: From Collapse to Care: Rebuilding Through Grief
In this heartfelt episode, Desa Karye Daniel sits down with Holly Truhlar to explore the profound themes of grief, liberation, rupture, and repair through the lens of community care. Together, they delve into personal experiences of how grief has manifested in their lives, sharing intimate stories and reflections. The conversation also touches on the concept of system collapse and Holly's unique passion for mules, weaving together insights that resonate deeply with listeners. Join them for an enlightening discussion that encourages healing and connection in challenging times. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
August 10 · 42 min
EP318: Counseling in Mandarin: What professional counselors and mental health providers need to know
In this episode we learn about the first Mandarin language speaking counseling certification program in CACREP accredited counseling program and explore how the program was developed. The guests share their lived experiences as Mandarin speaking professional counselors and as instructors in the certification program. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
July 13 · 1 hr 24 min
EP317: Psychologists for Justice in Palestine (PJP)
In this enlightening episode, host Dr. Dèsa Karye Daniel engages with Drs. Karen Suyemoto and Diane Jung Gallo from Psychologists for Justice in Palestine (PJP) to discuss the organization's mission and goals. They explore the challenges and victories of social justice action work, emphasizing the importance of their efforts in the current socio-political climate. The conversation delves into strategies for counteracting fatigue in advocacy and highlights what excites the guests about future initiatives. This episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of psychology and social justice, making it a must-listen for those interested in the ongoing fight for justice in Palestine. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
June 29 · 39 min
EP316: AI Support Between Sessions
In this episode, Dr. Margaret Lamar talks with counselor educator, researcher, and entrepreneur Dr. Carlos Castaneda about the evolving role of artificial intelligence in counseling and counselor education. They explore how AI can support clients between sessions, enhance counselor training through simulations, and reduce administrative burden while maintaining ethical, human-centered care. The conversation highlights both the opportunities and challenges of AI, emphasizing the importance of cultural responsiveness, bias mitigation, and keeping counselors firmly "in the loop." For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
June 18 · 40 min
EP315: Counseling Research and Practice with Nonreligious Clients
In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Dr. Dena Abbot to discuss her newest edited work: A Guide to Connection and Intimacy after Addiction and Trauma. Dena and contributing host Theo Burnes discuss the unique barriers for this frequently maligned and stigmatized demographic. Topics addressed include tips and strategies for counselors working with people about their desires and sexual pleasure. They also speak about writing and publication process for authors interested in mental health topics. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
May 20 · 51 min
EP314: Counselors' Roles in Integrated Behavioral Health
In this episode, we explore the growing impact of integrated behavioral healthcare and why embedding mental health counseling into primary care settings leads to better outcomes for clients, providers, and health systems. Our guest, Dr. Nic Schmoyer-Edmiston discusses how integrated models improve access, reduce waitlists, support health equity, and ease provider burnout, while normalizing mental health as a core part of overall wellness. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
March 20 · 51 min
EP313: AI Client Simulation in Counselor Education: What do we know?
Dr. Rakesh Maurya shares research based practice guidance on how counselor educators can successfully utilize AI in client simulation training for students. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
February 20 · 48 min
EP312: Umoja Behavioral Health from Mind to Matter
In this episode, Kenneth Winfrey meets with Desa Karye Daniel to discuss his journey with mental health and the evolution of their shared clinical practice. He discusses the foundational origins of Umjoa, how remaining authentic fueled his work, and how curiosity became a core part of building community. They end by talking about how community-centered work can create spaces where everyone feels honored and valued. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
January 26 · 46 min
EP311: Becoming the Chair: Identity, Influence, and Impact in Counselor Education
Explore what it meant for Dr. Kara Carnes-Holt to step into the role of Department Chair and her leadership journey. How does one transition from peer to leader while maintaining an identity rooted in advocacy and empathy? In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of academic leadership within counseling programs. We explore the shift from the classroom to leadership development. Join us to understand what your potential leadership path can be! For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
January 5 · 37 min
EP310: Working with Clients who Self-Diagnose
In this episode, we discuss client self diagnosis with Dr. Taylor Falardeau. Taylor shares how and why clients might engage in this process, and what this might mean for the counseling relationship. The focus is on counselor skills, and how the client's role as expert and building a strong counseling relationship are keys to success. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
January 5 · 42 min
EP309: The State of Counselor Educators: What Does the Research Tell Us?
Dr. Greg Hatchett shares findings from their research on counselor educator faculty experiences. These findings include where counselor education and supervision doctoral graduates find full time faculty employment, differences in research publications, and details on the kinds of counselor education programs. Dr. Hatchett shares their thoughts on how loan cap limits may impact doctoral counselor education and supervision enrollment and offers guidance to prospective counselor education and supervision students. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
Dec 19, 2025 · 46 min
EP308: Sexuality and Intimacy After Addiction and Trauma
In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Dr. Vanessa Carlisle to discuss their newest co-authored work, Awaken Your Sexuality: A Guide to Connection and Intimacy after Addiction and Trauma. Vanessa and contributing host Dr. Theo Burnes discuss the unique barriers for women and nonbinary people in recovery as they examine their sexualities. Topics addressed include tips and strategies for counselors working with people in recovery about their desires and sexual pleasure. Drs. Carlisle and Burnes also speak about the writing and publication process for authors interested in mental health topics. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
Dec 15, 2025 · 52 min
EP307: Working Intergenerationally with Gen Z
In this episode, Margaret Lamar and Laura Rea dive into some of their research on Generation Z in classroom and counseling spaces. Learn some of the unique experiences that have shaped the development of our Gen Z students and clients, along with empathic and accessible ways of working with them. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
Nov 24, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
EP306: Collective Healing and Community Care
Dr. Roberto L. Abreu met with Dr. Desa Karye Daniel to discuss how his understanding of LGBTQ experiences within Latinx communities has evolved through his lived experiences. They reflected on how their research has influenced their perspectives on social justice issues, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices in advocating for marginalized groups. The conversation also highlighted the delicate balance between challenging systems of oppression and providing support to their communities and students. They shared strategies for maintaining this balance, such as engaging in open dialogue and fostering inclusive environments in educational settings. Ultimately, their discussion underscored the significance of solidarity and allyship within and beyond the Latinx and LGBTQ communities in the pursuit of social justice. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
Nov 1, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min
EP305: Implications of the CACREP Complaint: Boundaries of Academic Freedom
Joined by Drs. Nathaniel Brown, Darius Green, and Frank Gorritz, the panel explores the implications of the civil rights complaint, boundaries of academic freedom, and whether CACREP standards are veering away from neutrality in counselor training. This conversation will challenge assumptions and invite deeper reflection on the future of counselor education. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
Oct 13, 2025 · 54 min
EP304: Remediation in Counselor Education: Changing the Perspective from Punishment to Growth
In this episode Dr. Maddie Clark sits down with Dr. Lena Salpietro to discuss her research regarding remediation in counseling. They discuss best practices, concerns, and how counselor educators and students can best engage with an often difficult subject, gatekeeping and remediation. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu
Sep 29, 2025 · 44 min
EP303: Graduate Admissions in Professional Counseling
In this episode, The Thoughtful Counselor welcomes Dr. Jeanne Stanley to discuss the admissions process for graduate programs in counseling. Jeanne and contributing host Dr. Theo Burnes discuss tips and strategies for master's-level counselors considering doctoral programs and undergraduate students contemplating graduate programs. Topics addressed include tips and strategies for students and mentors, advice for early career faculty who are engaging in the admissions process for the first time, the role of AI in the admissions process, and how to know when a graduate program is right for you. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University's Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

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