Episode 7 – Understanding Trauma, EMDR, and the Power of the Body with Stephanie Smith

In this episode of A Light Forward Podcast we sit down with Stephanie Smith a licensed therapist and trauma specialist for a deep dive into the world of trauma and healing.

We break down what trauma really is, the difference between “big T” and “little t” trauma and why two people can experience the same event but respond in completely different ways.

Stephanie also unpacks EMDR - what it is, how it works and why it’s such a powerful tool for processing traumatic memories. Plus, we explore somatic therapy the connection between the mind and body and the important role of the vagus nerve in regulating our nervous system.

If you’ve ever wondered why trauma lingers in the body or how healing modalities can help release it, this episode offers insight and hope for anyone on their journey toward wholeness.

You can learn more about Stephanie at https://www.redefinedcounseling.org/

Episode 6 – Gen Z, Mental Health and Social Media Boundaries with Avonley Whitsitt

In this episode of A Light Forward Podcast, we sit down with Avonley Whitsitt, licensed therapist and creator behind The Gen Z Therapist. We explore the unique mental health challenges Gen Z is navigating—from anxiety and identity struggles to the pressure of always being online.

Avonley dives into how social media deeply impacts Gen Z’s sense of self, relationships, and emotional well-being, and offers tools to set boundaries, manage screen time, and develop healthier habits.

We also discuss how Gen Z is redefining mental health conversations and breaking generational cycles in powerful ways.

Whether you're Gen Z yourself or simply want to better understand what this generation is facing, this episode is full of meaningful takeaways. You can find Avonley at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/avonley-whitsitt-boise-id/1317140 or on her Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/discover/avonley-%7C-gen-z-therapist

Episode 5 – Attachment Styles, Relationships, and Millennial Challenges with Krysteena Wilson

In this episode of A Light Forward Podcast, we sit down with Krysteena Wilson, owner of Tree City Wellness and a therapist specializing in couples therapy. We dive deep into Attachment Theory, exploring how different attachment styles develop, how they influence relationships, and whether it’s possible to shift toward a more secure attachment.

Krysteena breaks down common misconceptions, explains which attachment styles tend to be drawn to each other, and shares how to recognize your own and your partner’s attachment style—plus what to do with that knowledge.

We also take a closer look at millennials and relationships, discussing the unique challenges this generation faces in dating and marriage, from shifting societal expectations to financial and emotional stressors that previous generations may not have encountered.

Whether you’re curious about your own attachment style or want to strengthen your relationships, this episode is packed with valuable insights! You can find Krysteena at https://www.treecitywellnessid.com/ Or... on the instagrams @treecitywellnessidaho Want to know your attachment style? Take the quiz https://www.web-research-design.net/cgi-bin/crq/crq.pl