Episodes

  • Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, Erotic Transference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists hold appropriate boundaries?

    Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, Erotic Transference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists hold appropriate boundaries?
    Mar 31 2025
    Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, Erotic Transference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists hold appropriate boundaries? Curt and Katie chat about a disciplinary case against Dr. Eric Bergeman, highlighting key ethical concerns for therapists. They explore documentation practices, therapist responsibilities, and boundary management, particularly in cases involving suicidality and erotic transference. The conversation underscores the importance of clear treatment planning, proper record-keeping, and ethical decision-making to avoid legal and professional consequences. This is a continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about suicidality, erotic transference, between-session communication, and documentation Therapists are given conflicting advice on when their duties to patients begin, how much they are expected to be available to clients outside of sessions, how they are to approach between-session communications, and how to document such communications. This episode explores a disciplinary case where the California Board of Psychology investigated a therapist’s responses to a client that filed a complaint about the therapist’s treatment. What therapists need to know about ethical boundaries and disciplinary actions: The importance of proper documentation and clear treatment planning. How to respond to client suicidality in real-time, including assessment and intervention. Managing erotic transference with ethical boundaries and consultation. The role of Board of Psychology investigations in evaluating therapist conduct. Key Takeaways from Dr. Bergeman’s Disciplinary Case: The Board of Psychology found gross negligence due to poor documentation, inadequate diagnosis, and lack of clear therapeutic boundaries. Dr. Bergeman failed to properly address the client’s suicidality and borderline personality disorder, leading to ethical concerns. Consultation with another therapist revealed concerns about Bergeman’s treatment approach and lack of structured intervention. The Board initially sought a fine of $103,000, later reducing it to $10,363, citing good intentions but significant professional oversights. Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Continuing Education Approvals: Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 14 mins
  • What Therapists Need to Know About Immigration: An interview with Andy Strait

    What Therapists Need to Know About Immigration: An interview with Andy Strait
    Mar 27 2025
    What Therapists Need to Know About Immigration: An interview with Andy Strait Curt and Katie chat with Andy R. Strait, Esq., about immigration policies, mental health, and the role of therapists in supporting immigrant clients. They explore legal challenges, asylum cases, and the impact of fear-driven policies on mental health. Strait emphasizes the importance of legal representation, knowing one’s immigration status, and providing accurate resources. Therapists can help by offering pro bono evaluations, connecting clients with legal aid, and creating safe spaces for immigrant communities. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about what therapists need to know about immigration Immigration policies directly impact the mental health of both therapists and their clients. We asked Andy Strait, an immigration attorney and former public advocate, about the challenges immigrants face in the U.S. legal system, the role of therapists in supporting their clients, and practical steps therapists can take to provide assistance. What do therapists need to know about immigration policies? The lack of legal representation for immigrants and how this affects asylum outcomes. How the culture of fear surrounding immigration policies affects mental health. The importance of therapists providing accurate legal resources to clients. The racial profiling and shifting demographic focus of ICE operations. How therapists can help clients plan for potential deportation and protect their families. How Therapists Can Support Clients Facing Immigration Challenges Refer clients to legal experts by connecting with organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the Survivors of Torture Network. Consider offering pro bono psychological evaluations for asylum cases, as expert testimony is often crucial. Help clients understand their rights and the importance of legal documentation. Provide safe spaces for immigrants to process their fears and mental health struggles. Be mindful of misinformation and educate clients using accurate, vetted sources. Understanding the Realities of the Immigration System The asylum process is complex and overburdened, leaving many without proper representation. There is no right to an attorney for immigrants, making legal aid essential. Immigrants and their families need proactive strategies to prepare for potential enforcement actions. Therapists can play a critical role in reducing the stigma around seeking legal and mental health support. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    42 mins
  • Reacting to Regime Change: How Therapists Can Advocate for our Clients and Communities

    Reacting to Regime Change: How Therapists Can Advocate for our Clients and Communities
    Mar 24 2025
    Reacting to Regime Change: How Therapists Can Advocate for our Clients and Communities Curt and Katie chat about how the United States has shifted since the inauguration of President Trump. We look at how therapists can advocate for their clients and the communities they serve and/or live in. We look at strategies for therapists to stay informed, provide vetted resources, and be present for clients who may be struggling with the changes. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about the impact of political shifts on mental health care With ongoing changes in healthcare policy, therapists must navigate how legislative decisions impact their clients and their own practice. In this episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy discuss the Trump administration’s influence on mental health care, the importance of accurate information and advocacy, and strategies for balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities. What do therapists need to know about political changes in healthcare? The Trump administration’s policies and their impact on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid. The role of therapists in ensuring clients receive accurate healthcare information. How legislative decisions affect funding for mental health services. Why advocacy and political awareness are essential for protecting mental health access. The ethical considerations of discussing politics with clients while maintaining professional boundaries. How Therapists Can Take Action to Protect Healthcare Access Educate yourself and your clients on state-specific programs and available resources. Provide information in your practice on how clients can contact their legislators. Spend 15 minutes a day making calls to representatives to advocate for mental health care. Encourage, but don’t pressure, clients to take action in ways that align with their own values. Share neutral, fact-based sources to help clients stay informed without unnecessary anxiety. The Emotional Toll of Advocacy and How to Manage It Navigating personal feelings while supporting clients through political uncertainty. Avoiding doom-scrolling and setting boundaries around media consumption. Finding support within the therapist community to prevent burnout. Understanding personal capacity and choosing advocacy efforts that are sustainable. The Role of Therapists in Community Support Helping clients feel empowered rather than helpless in the face of policy changes. Creating space in sessions for conversations about uncertainty and anxiety related to healthcare access. Challenging therapists to step outside their comfort zone and take meaningful action. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    35 mins
  • When Your Client Dies By Suicide: An interview with Dr. Nina Gutin

    When Your Client Dies By Suicide: An interview with Dr. Nina Gutin
    Mar 17 2025
    When Your Client Dies By Suicide: An interview with Dr. Nina Gutin Curt and Katie chat with Nina J. Gutin, Ph.D. about to discuss the emotional, professional, and systemic impact of client suicide on clinicians. We break down the common reactions of guilt and blame, highlight the importance of postvention support, and explore strategies to navigate grief and maintain clinical confidence. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about the impact of client suicide on clinicians Losing a client to suicide is a devastating and often isolating experience for mental health professionals. We asked suicide expert, Dr. Nina Gutin to join us to talk about how therapists can take care of themselves when they have a client die by suicide. What do therapists need to know about client suicide and its impact on clinicians? The stigma and self-blame clinicians often experience after losing a client. The importance of using “died by suicide” instead of stigmatizing language. Statistics on clinician loss: One in five mental health professionals—and up to one in two psychiatrists—will experience a client suicide. The need for postvention protocols and structured support in mental health workplaces. How reducing caseloads and fostering support networks can help mitigate the long-term professional impact. Processing Guilt and Self-Blame After a Client Suicide How hindsight bias can make clinicians feel responsible for a client’s death. Shifting from guilt to remorse or regret as a healthier perspective. The fear of legal repercussions and how to navigate it after a client suicide. Best practices for reaching out to a client’s family with compassion and professionalism. The Professional and Emotional Toll of Client Suicide on Therapists How losing a client to suicide can shake a clinician’s confidence and clinical identity. The importance of workplace support and structured postvention after a client death. Why systemic change is necessary to ensure therapists receive the help they need. Resources and Support for Clinicians The Coalition of Clinician Survivors – A support network offering: A listserv for peer support. A bibliography of research and clinical resources. Postvention protocols to guide clinicians and organizations. Dr. Nina Gutin’s email – For clinicians seeking consultation (nguten@earthlink.net). Breaking the Stigma and Advocating for Systemic Support How the stigma around suicide impacts both clients and clinicians. The need for better suicide prevention and postvention training in clinical programs. How organizations can prepare for and respond to client suicides to support their clinicians effectively. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    35 mins
  • Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns

    Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns
    Mar 10 2025
    Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness Campaigns Curt and Katie chat about the limitations of performative awareness campaigns and the need for action-oriented advocacy. Inspired by the article Stop Raising Awareness Already by Ann Christiano and Annie Niemand, they critique viral campaigns like Kony 2012 and the CDC’s zombie apocalypse campaign, highlighting the importance of targeting the right audiences, crafting compelling messages, and developing a theory of change. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we talk about the limitations of awareness campaigns Curt and Katie talk about what to do instead of focusing precious time, energy, and resources on advocacy that is solely about awareness. We look at what has worked in the past and how to implement that now. Why Awareness Alone Isn’t Enough Performative awareness (social media posts, profile filters) often doesn’t lead to real change. Examples of failed awareness campaigns: Kony 2012: Viral but lacked sustainable action. CDC’s zombie apocalypse: Popular but ineffective at promoting emergency preparedness. HPV vaccine campaign: Faced backlash due to misinterpretation of its message. Some awareness efforts even create harmful counter-movements (e.g., “All Lives Matter” in response to BLM). The Importance of Targeted Advocacy Broad awareness campaigns often miss key decision-makers—advocacy should focus on specific audiences. Examples of effective advocacy efforts: Lobbying for minors' rights to amend therapy records. Medicare reform efforts for mental health providers. California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) educating legislators about MFTs. Developing a Theory of Change Advocacy needs clear goals and strategic planning. The story of Rosa Parks demonstrates effective timing and targeting in advocacy. Successful campaigns require repetition, patience, and clear calls to action. Practical Steps for Effective Advocacy: · Move beyond awareness—advocate for policy changes, funding, and direct action. · Target specific audiences (lawmakers, healthcare providers, educators). · Craft messages that resonate—ensure they lead to measurable change. · Develop a theory of change—plan advocacy efforts with long-term impact in mind. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    30 mins
  • MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith

    MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith
    Mar 3 2025
    MFTs Providing Therapy Across State Lines Through License Portability in the United States: An interview with Roger Smith Curt and Katie chat with Roger Smith, Chief Advocacy Officer and General Counsel for American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, about the challenges and progress in licensure portability for Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs). He explains why AAMFT opted for an endorsement model over interstate compacts, the success of the Access MFTs initiative, and what’s next for portability efforts in 2025. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Roger Smith about LMFT License Portability As more and more therapy is happening online, therapists have an opportunity to work with clients from all over the world. In the United States, there have been efforts by social workers, mental health counselors, and psychologists to create inter-state compacts to help regulate these therapists (and provide opportunities to deliver care legally in other states). Marriage and Family Therapists have been left behind and are now seeking a different path (reciprocity or portability) due to the unique characteristics of the LMFT profession. We reached out to Roger Smith of AAMFT to help us understand why this decision was made as well as what it means for MFTs. Why AAMFT Chose the Endorsement Model Over Compacts · Interstate compacts were considered but ultimately deemed too costly and unsustainable. · Large states like California and New York have not adopted ANY healthcare compacts, limiting effectiveness. · Endorsement model: Allows MFTs to practice in other states if they hold an unencumbered license—without having to meet initial requirements again. Success of the "Access MFTs" Model · In 2024, 7 out of 10 targeted states passed the Access MFTs model law. · States that adopted the model include Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Tennessee, and Virginia. · Efforts continue in Kentucky and North Carolina for 2025. Future of MFT Portability & Barriers California is not pursuing portability legislation but is working with CAMFT on national exam advocacy. Exam requirements can be a barrier to full portability. Expansion plans focus on pro-telehealth states and underserved regions. Member Interest & Cost Considerations for MFTs seeking to practice across state lines A 2022 AAMFT survey showed strong member interest in portability, especially among younger therapists. Costs are a factor—both the Access MFTs model and interstate compacts involve financial considerations for therapists. National Licensure for therapists: Why It’s Not an Option Licensure is a state-level issue, and federal intervention is unlikely. A national exam or license would face constitutional challenges and resistance from state regulatory boards. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    36 mins
  • The Advances in Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health: An interview with Dr. Alyssa Dietz

    The Advances in Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health: An interview with Dr. Alyssa Dietz
    Feb 24 2025
    The Advances in Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health: An interview with Dr. Alyssa Dietz Curt and Katie chat with Dr. Alyssa Dietz, a clinical psychologist and digital mental health expert, about the evolving role of AI in therapy. Dr. Dietz discusses how AI can enhance therapy by delivering evidence-based care, particularly in structured approaches like CBT, while acknowledging its limitations with complex, multi-diagnosis cases. She emphasizes the need for collaboration between therapists and AI developers to ensure ethical, patient-centered innovation in digital mental health. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Dr. Alyssa Dietz about Advances in AI for Therapy Artificial Intelligence has already come for mental healthcare. The question is, what should therapists be doing about it? We dig into what AI therapy looks like from the inside, from a clinician’s perspective. AI’s Growing Role in Therapy AI can enhance therapy but won’t replace human therapists soon. AI is particularly effective in skills-based therapies like CBT. AI currently struggles with complex diagnoses and comorbidities. The most active users of digital mental health tools are 50-60 years old, surprising many industry experts. How AI is Changing the Therapist’s Role AI can automate administrative tasks and support therapists in data-driven decision-making. Although tech and insurance folks say we can use AI to work at the "top of our license," this approach could lead to therapist burnout. Clinicians should work alongside AI developers to ensure ethical, patient-centered care. AI’s judgment and decision-making remain limited, requiring human oversight. Evaluating AI’s Effectiveness & Ethical Considerations The tension between innovation, regulation, and evaluation in AI-driven therapy. Importance of clear safety protocols and escalation (emergency) measures for client care. AI must be rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness. Understanding how AI products are trained and evaluated is critical for therapists before incorporating these clinical tools into your practice. AI and Complex Diagnoses Current AI models struggle to address comorbidities effectively. Need for personalization and context-driven interventions. Future AI tools must move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. How Therapists Can Adapt to AI in Mental Health Educate yourself on AI’s capabilities and limitations. Stay informed through online courses, conferences, and tech-focused therapist groups. Engage with organizations like the Digital Medicine Society to understand responsible AI use. Connect with the "Therapists in Tech" Slack group to network with others in the space. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    43 mins
  • Exploring Systemic Trauma and Relational Privilege with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples: An interview with Akilah Riley-Richardson, MSW, CCTP

    Exploring Systemic Trauma and Relational Privilege with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples: An interview with Akilah Riley-Richardson, MSW, CCTP
    Feb 17 2025
    Exploring Systemic Trauma and Relational Privilege with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples: An interview with Akilah Riley-Richardson Curt and Katie chat with Akilah Riley Richardson, MSW about the challenges therapists face when working with BIPOC and LGBTQI couples. Akilah discusses the impact of systemic trauma, how it affects relationships, and the importance of creating therapeutic models tailored to marginalized communities. She introduces The PRIDE Model for therapy and The BIOME Stance for therapists, offering actionable strategies for inclusive, trauma-informed care. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk with Akilah Riley-Richardson about what therapists get wrong when working with BIPOC and LGBTQI couples Too often, couples counselors take traditional models and make slight tweaks for couples from marginalized backgrounds, with little success. Akilah Riley-Richardson has developed a stance and a new model to help support therapists in doing more effective work with these couples. Understanding Systemic Trauma in Therapy Defining systemic trauma: Chronic, unpredictable, and disenfranchised trauma caused by systemic forces (education, legal, and healthcare systems). Examples of systemic trauma: Microaggressions, mispronounced names, assumptions about authority roles, and misgendering. Effects on individuals and relationships: Reduced sense of safety, rejection sensitivity, emotional disconnect, and difficulty setting boundaries. Challenges in Therapy with BIPOC and LGBTQI Couples Common therapist mistakes: Ignoring systemic realities and the impact of privilege. Adapting existing models without acknowledging their white, cishet origins. Failing to create trauma-informed, inclusive frameworks. Importance of relational privilege: Self-acceptance, social acceptance, and feeling protected in relationships. The PRIDE Model & The BIOME Stance from Akilah Riley-Richardson PRIDE Model for Therapy: Relational curiosity: Actively exploring the client's lived experiences. Setting intentions: Creating space for safety and vulnerability. Trauma work: Addressing systemic trauma's long-term impact on relationships. BIOME Stance for Therapists: Bravery: Facing discomfort in recognizing privilege. Intimacy: Fostering deep emotional connections. Openness: Being receptive to client experiences. Micro-liberatory movements: Small but impactful actions toward social justice. Epistemic embracing: Validating client knowledge and lived experiences. How Therapists Can Engage Clients in Systemic Trauma Work Transparency in therapy: Clearly communicating the goal of liberation. Allowing resistance: Accepting client pushback as an assertion of power. Embracing uncertainty: Being comfortable with not having all the answers. Participating in decolonization conversations: Learning through community engagement and allyship. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
    Show more Show less
    38 mins