Episodios

  • Ep. 59 - Unlocking Self-Healing with Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy: A Deep Dive with Dr. Tori Olds

    Ep. 59 - Unlocking Self-Healing with Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy: A Deep Dive with Dr. Tori Olds
    Jun 4 2025
    In this heartfelt and informative episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, your host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, dives into Internal Family Systems (IFS) with the brilliant Dr. Tori Olds—psychologist, educator, singer-songwriter, and co-founder of Deep Eddy Psychotherapy. Diana shares how a single YouTube video titled What is IFS? changed the game for her personal healing and client work. That video? Created by today’s guest, Dr. Tori Olds. Together, they explore the neuroscience behind IFS, how to work with wounded parts (exiles), and why self-compassion—not shame—is the key to healing. Whether you're a therapist, a faith-based practitioner, or someone simply curious about why you procrastinate, rage, people-please, or spiral into perfectionism, this episode is for you. In This Episode, We Explore: What Internal Family Systems therapy actually is (Hint: It's not “multiple personalities”) The difference between protectors (like managers and firefighters) and exiles What the “Self” is in IFS—and how to connect to it The science of memory reconsolidation and how real change is possible How IFS complements faith-based healing (even for those deconstructing rigid religious upbringings) Why your coping behaviors aren’t bad—they’re just trying to help you survive A healing path that integrates body, mind, and soul—without shame Powerful Quotes: “It’s not about fixing yourself—it’s about getting to know yourself with compassion.” — Dr. Tori Olds “The more you ignore a part, the more it screams at you. It’s not trying to sabotage you—it’s trying to get your attention.” — Diana S. Rice “Firefighters are there to save your life... but sometimes they break a few windows in the process.” — Dr. Tori Olds “Even with trauma, your true Self is never broken—it’s just buried under protective parts.” — Dr. Tori Olds “Change comes through acceptance, not punishment.” — Dr. Tori Olds Resources Mentioned: Dr. Tori Olds’ YouTube Channel (watch What Is IFS? and other playlists): https://www.youtube.com/@toriolds/videos Playlist: Internal Family Systems (IFS) Go to Tori’s channel > Click “Playlists” > Look for the IFS series Self-Therapy by Jay Earley (IFS-based workbook for individuals) https://amzn.to/3qW5hdb IFS Institute (Find a certified therapist or trainings) https://ifs-institute.com IFS Workbook by Dr. Richard Schwartz https://amzn.to/3r0r7Al IFS & Neuroscience: Watch Dr. Schwartz on the Huberman Lab Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyFffF1z1pE Bible Verses Referenced: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.” Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control...” Connect with Our Guest: Dr. Tori Olds Website: https://www.toriolds.com YouTube: @DrToriOlds Trainings: https://www.mindingtheheart.com Connect with Diana S. Rice: Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a fellow human who's trying to reconnect with their true Self. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave an honest review to help more listeners discover healing through holistic mental health.
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    1 h y 4 m
  • Ep. 58 - Untwisting Spiritual Abuse: How Scripture Gets Weaponized—and How to Heal with Rebecca Davis, Author & Trauma-Informed Christian Book Coach

    Ep. 58 - Untwisting Spiritual Abuse: How Scripture Gets Weaponized—and How to Heal with Rebecca Davis, Author & Trauma-Informed Christian Book Coach
    May 28 2025

    In this powerful episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana sits down with Rebecca Davis, author of the Untwisting Scriptures series and a trauma-informed Christian book coach. Together, they tackle the painful but necessary topic of spiritual abuse, how Scripture has been twisted to control and silence victims, and what it really means to experience biblical healing.

    Rebecca shares her own journey into this work, her years of Scripture study, and why she believes that God's heart is always on the side of the oppressed. Listeners will learn about common misused Bible verses, the dangers of church-based mind control, how religious trauma impacts mental health, and how to rebuild faith after church hurt.

    This episode is especially for those wrestling with church trauma, faith deconstruction, or a distorted view of God—and for the Christian counselors and helpers trying to support them.

    What You’ll Learn:

    • The origin story behind the Untwisting Scriptures series

    • Commonly abused Scriptures used to control, silence, or shame victims

    • Why understanding dissociation is crucial for trauma-informed care

    • How religious teachings can reinforce abusive power dynamics

    • The difference between dying to self vs. biblical self-denial

    • The truth about spiritual bypassing, emotional suppression, and sin-leveling

    • How survivors can reclaim their faith without guilt or fear

    • The role of faith in healing from SRA, trafficking, and DID

    Powerful Quotes:

    "Spiritual abuse often begins with three core lies: 'I'm your authority, you have the sin problem, and you need to be quiet.'"

    "Dying to self is not in the Bible. Denying yourself is—but they are not the same."

    "God is not the breaker—He is the healer. Evil breaks. God restores."

    "You don’t have to shrink to glorify God. You can live joyfully and fully in Him."

    "The Scriptures have been used like weapons—but when rightly understood, they’re actually cords of love."

    "Trauma recovery and biblical truth are not at odds—they're powerful allies."

    Resources & Links:

    • Visit Rebecca Davis’s website: https://heresthejoy.com

    • Explore the Untwisting Scriptures series: https://untwistingscriptures.com

    • Learn about her book coaching: https://rebeccadavisinfo.com

    • Free Download: How to Enjoy the Bible Again After Spiritual Abuse – available at untwistingscriptures.com

    • Called to Peace Ministries Retreat (Annual in May): https://www.calledtopeace.org

    Related Episodes:

    • Episode 10 – Exploring Religious Trauma and Domestic Violence in the Church with Dr. Kate Johnson

    Connect with Diana:
    Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy
    Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com
    Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast

    If this episode blessed you, please consider:

    • Subscribing and leaving an honest review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

    • Sharing this episode with a friend or client who may need it

    • Joining us weekly for more faith-based conversations on mental wellness, resilience, and spiritual healing
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    58 m
  • Ep. 57 - Healing from Church Hurt with Neuroscience & Grace: Christian Mental Health Tools That Actually Work​ with Joe Padilla from Mental Health Grace Alliance

    Ep. 57 - Healing from Church Hurt with Neuroscience & Grace: Christian Mental Health Tools That Actually Work​ with Joe Padilla from Mental Health Grace Alliance
    May 21 2025
    In this transformative conversation, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS sits down with Joe Padilla, co-founder of Mental Health Grace Alliance, for a deeply enriching and spiritually grounded discussion on mental health recovery, neuroplasticity, and faith. Joe shares his raw and inspiring personal journey—from homelessness and adversity to ministry, marriage, and the co-creation of one of the most impactful Christian mental health nonprofits worldwide. Together, they break down how neuroscience and Scripture align, the missteps of traditional therapy models, and why it's essential to meet people with grace rather than guilt. If you've ever wrestled with religious trauma, church hurt, or wondered how to integrate science and faith without compromising either—this episode is for you. Key Topics Covered: Joe's powerful testimony of healing and resilience The origin story of Mental Health Grace Alliance The neuroscience behind trauma, anxiety, and the healing power of faith Why the Holy Spirit is more about comfort than conviction CBT, DBT, ACT, and the importance of using the right tool at the right time The dangers of spiritual bypassing and sin-consciousness in church culture The mental health implications of a loving vs. punitive view of God How Grace Alliance workbooks, groups, and free tools are changing lives Memorable Quotes: “Right now, God is absolutely and completely satisfied with you.” — Joe Padilla “The brain is not a stimulus-response machine. It’s a predictive organ. It only changes through experience.” — Joe Padilla “Let’s stop making it Christianese. If there's grace, make it practical.” — Diana S. Rice “If you start with sin, you’re building a sin-consciousness. If you start with love, you build a grace-consciousness.” — Joe Padilla “We are not trying to avoid suffering—we are learning how to walk through it, equipped with tools and truth.” — Diana S. Rice Featured Resources: Mental Health Grace Alliance Workbooks (Free Downloads) Living Grace: for individuals with mental health struggles Family Grace: for families and caregivers Redefine Grace: for students Thrive Workbook: a 200-page neuroscience-informed workbook for holistic recovery Training to lead a group: Free and accessible for anyone Dr. Matthew Stanford's book: Grace for the Afflicted Dr. Lisa Miller: The Awakened Brain and her work on spirituality and neuroscience Andrew Huberman (Huberman Lab Podcast) on fight/flight/freeze states and the predictive brain Connect with Joe Padilla & Mental Health Grace Alliance: Website: https://www.mentalhealthgracealliance.org Instagram: @mentalhealthgracealliance YouTube: Mental Health Grace Alliance Blog & Free Video Series: On the website Listen + Subscribe to The Holistic Counselor Podcast Hosted by Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS Podcast Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/holistic-counselor-podcast Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Share + Review If this episode blessed you, please: Share it with a friend or faith community Leave an honest review on Apple or Spotify Tag us in your takeaways! #TheHolisticCounselorPodcast #ThroughTheValleyTherapy #MentalHealthGraceAlliance #FindingMeaning #FaithAndNeuroscience #LectioDivina Let this episode remind you: God is not looking for perfect behavior. He’s calling you back to belonging. Guard your heart. Renew your mind. You're not alone.
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    1 h y 6 m
  • Ep. 56 - Breaking the Stigma: Christian Meditation, EFT & Nervous System Healing with Sandra McLagan, RN from Christ Centered Tribe

    Ep. 56 - Breaking the Stigma: Christian Meditation, EFT & Nervous System Healing with Sandra McLagan, RN from Christ Centered Tribe
    May 14 2025

    In this deeply enriching episode, Diana is joined by Sandra McLagan, RN—a former nurse educator turned Clinical EFT Practitioner, Christian meditation coach, and founder of Christ Centered Tribe. With 20+ years of experience in the medical field, Sandra has guided women in over 75 countries through Biblical meditation, breathwork, and nervous system regulation—all anchored in Scripture and the love of Christ.

    Together, we discuss:

    • What Biblical meditation really is (and why it’s not New Age)

    • How Christian breathwork and EFT are rooted in both faith and neuroscience

    • Why stillness is key to emotional and spiritual transformation

    • How to start a nervous system practice even if you’re overwhelmed

    • The link between trauma, perfectionism, and chronic stress in Christian women

    • Jesus as our model for stillness, solitude, and surrender

    Stick around for a powerful 2-minute guided meditation to reconnect with God’s presence and leave refreshed, grounded, and reminded that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

    Resources & Links Mentioned:

    • Christ Centered Tribe Website
      https://www.christcenteredtribe.com

    • Sandra’s Mini-Course on Biblical Meditation
      https://www.christcenteredtribe.com/biblical-meditation-mini-course

    • Sandra’s Patreon (Monthly Soul Care Membership)
      https://www.patreon.com/ChristCenteredTribe

    • Portugal Retreat Info
      https://www.christcenteredtribe.com/retreats

    • 1-Minute Pause App by John Eldredge
      https://www.pauseapp.com

    • Breathly App
      https://breathly.app/

    • Dr. Andrew Weil’s 4-7-8 Breathing
      https://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind-spirit/stress-anxiety/breathing-three-exercises/

    Connect with Sandra McLagan, RN:

    • Website: https://www.christcenteredtribe.com

    • Instagram: @christcenteredtribe

    • YouTube: Christ Centered Tribe

    Connect with Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS:

    • Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com

    • Podcast Website: https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/holistic-counselor-podcast

    • Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy

    Loved this episode?

    Subscribe, rate, and leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps other faith-filled listeners find this show!
    Share this episode with a friend who needs a reminder to breathe, be still, and rest in God’s presence.
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    52 m
  • Ep. 55 - Breaking the Silence: Mental Health, Culture, and Healing in the Haitian Community with Ostin Celestin, Jr., LMHC, LMFT, EMDR Trained, QS

    Ep. 55 - Breaking the Silence: Mental Health, Culture, and Healing in the Haitian Community with Ostin Celestin, Jr., LMHC, LMFT, EMDR Trained, QS
    May 7 2025
    In this compelling episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, engages in a profound conversation with Haitian-American therapist Ostin Celestin, Jr., LMHC, LMFT, EMDR-Trained, DBT-Informed, and Qualified Supervisor. Together, they delve into the complexities of mental health within Haitian and immigrant communities, addressing cultural stigmas, intergenerational trauma, and the transformative power of therapy. With over 17 years of clinical experience, Ostin shares his personal journey of navigating cultural expectations, embracing his calling in psychotherapy, and utilizing evidence-based practices like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). The discussion also highlights the significance of Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning" in understanding resilience and finding purpose amidst adversity. This episode is essential listening for therapists, individuals from immigrant backgrounds, and anyone interested in culturally competent care, BIPOC mental health advocacy, and healing from intergenerational trauma. Key Topics Discussed: Cultural Stigmas Surrounding Mental Health in Haitian Communities Exploring how cultural beliefs and spirituality influence perceptions of therapy and mental well-being. Navigating Immigrant Expectations and Personal Aspirations Ostin's personal narrative of balancing familial expectations with his passion for psychology. The Role of Storytelling and Historical Narratives Understanding the impact of the Haitian Revolution and other historical events on collective trauma and resilience. Integrating Faith and Therapy Addressing the complexities of incorporating spirituality, including discussions on voodoo and Christian counseling, into therapeutic practices. Evidence-Based Therapeutic Approaches Insights into the application of EMDR and DBT in treating trauma and promoting emotional regulation. Resources Mentioned: "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl A seminal work exploring the human quest for meaning, drawing from Frankl's experiences as a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) A psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) A cognitive-behavioral treatment that emphasizes balancing acceptance and change, particularly effective for individuals experiencing intense emotions. Genograms A graphical representation of family relationships and medical history, used to identify patterns and psychological factors. Haitian Revolution A significant historical event that led to Haiti's independence, influencing cultural identity and collective consciousness. Quotable Moments: "You can’t heal what you can’t name. And many of our clients from minority communities have never been given permission to name their pain." – Ostin Celestin, Jr. "Sometimes your calling finds you. The people I serve knew who I was before I did." – Ostin Celestin, Jr. Connect with Ostin Celestin, Jr.: Private Practice: Insight 180 Counseling Location: Florida Specialties: Trauma recovery, family systems, EMDR, DBT, Christian counseling Website: https://insight180therapy.com/ Connect with Host Diana S. Rice: Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/holistic-counselor-podcast Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Counseling Services: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The Holistic Counselor Podcast on your preferred platform. Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help others discover the show. Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or anyone who might benefit from the insights shared.
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    1 h y 7 m
  • Ep. 54 - He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not… But God Does — Healing Heartbreak, Church Hurt & Identity with Author Sharon Feingold

    Ep. 54 - He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not… But God Does — Healing Heartbreak, Church Hurt & Identity with Author Sharon Feingold
    Apr 30 2025

    Episode Summary:
    Welcome, fearfully and wonderfully made human, to another soul-nourishing episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast! I'm your host Diana from Through the Valley Therapy and Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching. In this episode, we get real about Christian singleness, internet dating, and the deeper longings of the heart.

    I sat down with Sharon Dawn Feingold, who I met at a Christian networking event. Sharon vulnerably shares her journey through internet dating, the painful patterns she had to face, and how her pursuit of love ultimately led her to the arms of Jesus. As a therapist who works with many single Christian women in their 20s and 30s, I’ve seen firsthand how hope, fear, and heartbreak can collide when navigating modern dating culture. Sharon's story offers wisdom, humor, and comfort for anyone who’s ever wondered: "Will I ever meet someone?"

    In This Episode, We Talk About:

    • Why the idea of the 'perfect husband' can become an idol

    • How unresolved childhood wounds shape adult romantic choices

    • What internet dating looked like in the early 2000s (JDate, digital cameras, and dial-up!)

    • The emotional toll of dating rejection and obsession

    • How Sharon transitioned from cultural Judaism to a Messianic relationship with Christ

    • The role of journaling and storytelling in healing

    • Why Sharon turned down an offer to be on The Golden Bachelor

    • How finding God's love changed everything

    Notable Quotes:

    "I wasn’t in love with the person—I was in love with marriage."

    "It felt like I was playing a slot machine with my heart."

    "You don’t need a man to complete you when you are already whole in Christ."

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Sharon's Book: He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not, But God Does (Also available at Barnes & Noble and Molding Messengers Publishing)

    • Book Mentioned: Healing What Hurts (source of "Love Letter from God")

    • Diana's Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com

    • Podcast Website: www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/holistic-counselor-podcast

    Connect with Sharon:

    • Sharon's Book on Amazon

    • Sharon's LinkIn

    Connect with Diana:

    • Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy

    • Blog: Liberation Lunes

    Subscribe + Share:
    If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, share it with a sister-friend, and leave a heartfelt review. Let’s grow this community of faith-filled, emotionally intelligent women walking toward healing.
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    59 m
  • Ep. 53 - Faith-Based Trauma Healing: Rediscover Your Identity in Christ with Kayla Roberts, LMHC, BCCC

    Ep. 53 - Faith-Based Trauma Healing: Rediscover Your Identity in Christ with Kayla Roberts, LMHC, BCCC
    Apr 23 2025
    Join host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS, as she welcomes special guest Kayla Roberts, LMHC, BCCC, a seasoned faith-based trauma therapist and EMDR specialist. Together, they explore practical ways to integrate faith and psychology for holistic healing, identity restoration, and spiritual freedom. In this insightful conversation, Kayla Roberts shares how trauma impacts identity and how finding your true identity in Christ can unlock lasting mental wellness. Through proven therapeutic methods like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and attachment theory, learn how to address underlying trauma and overcome emotional and spiritual obstacles. Discover key biblical truths to replace harmful lies about self-worth and practical faith-based strategies to deepen your healing journey. Key Topics Explored in This Episode: Integrating Faith and Psychology: Why faith and therapy are inseparable and how biblical principles align with psychological truths.Trauma and Identity: Understanding trauma’s effect on identity formation and rediscovering your true self in Christ.Understanding EMDR Therapy: How Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing can accelerate trauma healing and emotional regulation.Four Common Lies Affecting Identity: "I’m unlovable.""I’m stupid.""I’m defective.""I'm simply not good enough." Healing from Religious Trauma: How spiritual bypassing affects emotional health and strategies for overcoming church hurt.Multicultural Counseling Awareness: Recognizing how cultural backgrounds influence experiences of trauma, healing, and faith. Bible Verses Mentioned: Galatians 3:28 – "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (ESV)John 1:1 – "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (ESV)Romans 5-7 – Discusses freedom from sin’s power through Christ's sacrifice. Practical Faith-Based Healing Steps: Seek Safe and Loving Relationships: Build relationships with people who offer unconditional love, accountability, and reflect God’s character.Identify and Challenge Fear: Recognize underlying fears that prevent emotional healing, and bravely confront them with God’s truth.Embrace Your True Identity in Christ: Regularly affirm biblical truths about who God says you are. Recommended Resources: EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) – Learn more about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy."No Bad Parts" by Dr. Richard Schwartz – Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Bible Hub – Tool to explore original biblical Greek and Hebrew meanings. YouVersion Bible App – Free Bible reading plans and devotionals. Connect with Kayla Roberts: Website: Rivergate Family Resource CenterChurch Resources: Encounters Church Kayla’s “Freedom from Trauma” 10-part seriesIdentity and attachment theory teachings About Kayla Roberts, LMHC, BCCC: Kayla Roberts is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Board Certified Christian Counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, and passionate advocate for trauma-informed, faith-based healing. With over two decades of counseling experience, Kayla integrates clinical expertise with biblical wisdom to help clients reclaim their identity in Christ and experience lasting emotional freedom. About Your Host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS: Diana S. Rice is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, Certified Telehealth Professional, Qualified Supervisor, consultant, and host of The Holistic Counselor Podcast. She specializes in holistic wellness, mental health coaching, and spiritually-informed counseling through her private practice, Through the Valley Therapy. Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe, share, and leave an honest review to help others find transformative conversations at the intersection of faith and mental health. Remember: Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind!
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    56 m
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