Episode 168: Mental Health: Where do I go from Here?
Release Date: 10/25/2023
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Today, it’s just the two of us, engaging in a candid conversation about mental health. Ironically, we find ourselves easing into a month dedicated to both mental health and foster care awareness. For those who have experienced life within the foster care system, the intricate connection between these two realms becomes evident. So, let’s dive into the spaces where our mental well-being has been profoundly affected and the valuable lessons we’ve gleaned along the way. With that, let’s begin this authentic conversation. 🌟 Resource Links: Connect with us! Email:...
info_outline Episode 180: How Caregiver Stress Impacts Our BodiesFostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In honor of Stress Awareness Month, our podcast delves into the crucial topic of stress reduction and self-care. While this is important for everyone, it holds even greater significance for caregivers of children with special needs and those working in social services fields. The toll of constant stress can adversely affect our health, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, inadequate sleep, lack of physical activity, and imbalanced diets. These factors increase the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. But how do we address this challenge? Today,...
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Summary: Today, we’re delving into an exciting new therapy modality called Critical Memory Integration. This groundbreaking approach focuses on healing trauma by exploring unresolved critical memories and integrating them with neutral memories, fostering resilience in individuals. At the forefront of this creation, our incredible team of panelists joins us today. You might recognize one of our team members—Estefana Johnson—who shared her insights in our Valentine’s episode. Estefana is a cherished friend of Foster Arizona. Alongside Estefana, we have two remarkable psychologists: Dr....
info_outline Episode 178: Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 2Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast! In today’s episode, we’re picking up where we left off last week. Our microphones are live on location at Foster Cooperative’s first training day of 2024, where we’re soaking up knowledge and growing together. 🌱 Last time, you had the pleasure of meeting some of our incredible presenters. This week, get ready to hear from three more remarkable human beings. They’ll share their stories, insights, and passion for fostering. 🎙️ So, without further ado, let’s dive into this enriching conversation! Buckle up, because here we...
info_outline Episode 177: Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 1Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Today is all about something extra special! We've packed our gear and hit the road to bring you an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. Right now, we're on location at Foster Cooperative's training day, immersing ourselves in a day of learning and growth. Foster Arizona, a beacon of support and empowerment, hosts these training events twice a year. And let me tell you, each time is a unique journey filled with eye-opening insights. Today, we're not keeping those gems to ourselves – we're bringing you along for the ride! Join us as we dive into various topics and explore valuable...
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Summary: Discover the profound journey of becoming a foster parent in a nation grappling with a staggering shortage. In this episode, we explore the critical issue of the national decline in foster parent numbers, intensified by a 60% drop since the onset of the pandemic. Arizona, mirroring this trend, has witnessed a drastic decrease from 5,559 licensed foster homes in 2019 to a mere 2,798 as of November 2023 – marking a nearly 50% loss. Against this backdrop, our guests, Elisia and Jade from Step Stone Youth Agency, shed light on the challenges and rewards of foster parenting. At a time...
info_outline Episode 174: Moms Get RealFostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Welcome to the Fostering Voices podcast with your host Kim! Join us as we shake things up in this episode by delving into some authentic mom talk. We've given Brian the boot for now to bring you a heartfelt discussion on the joys and challenges of parenting within the realms of foster care and adoption. As a mom personally touched by these experiences, connecting with others who share similar journeys has been both empowering and deeply meaningful. In today's episode, we're joined by the wonderful Elisia and Ally, fellow moms navigating the unique landscape of foster care and...
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Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast! Happy 2024, everyone! We're thrilled to kick off another year of heartfelt conversations and insightful stories. In today's episode, we have a special discussion with our 'bigs'—Maisey, Liesey, and Sam—sharing their unique perspectives on foster care and adoption. Join us as we delve into their experiences, gaining valuable insights into the world of fostering and adoption through their eyes. Thanks for tuning in, and let's embark on this journey of understanding and empathy together! Resource Links: Connect with us! Email:...
info_outline Episode 172: Foster Care Land Between: Planning Your Future in the UnknownFostering Voices Podcast
Summary: As we wrap up 2024, we're diving into the complexities of foster care planning. Unlike the conventional New Year's resolutions, the foster care journey is a unique landscape filled with uncertainties. In today's raw and unfiltered discussion, it's just the two of us sharing our personal experiences without any guests. We want to pull back the curtain on the challenges and emotions that come with navigating the foster care land between. As we all contemplate what the coming year holds, those entrenched in foster care face a different set of considerations. Planning takes on a whole new...
info_outlineSummary:
In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of mental health and finding a path forward when you're grappling with the question, "Where do I go from here?" Today, we are thrilled to have Carol Melim join our conversation. Carol is not only a Licensed Clinical Social Worker but also a specialist in trauma therapy, certified in EMDR and EMDRIA, with a unique perspective. She brings a wealth of book knowledge and invaluable lived experience to the table, making her exceptionally attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by foster and adopted children, as well as their families.
Throughout this episode, we'll explore the intersection of mental health and family dynamics, drawing on Carol's expertise and personal insights. Whether you're a parent seeking guidance, someone interested in mental health, or simply curious about the experiences of foster and adopted children, this conversation will provide valuable insights and practical advice. Join us as we navigate this important conversation, offering hope and understanding for those asking themselves, "Where do I go from here?"
Resource Links:
Types of Trauma Therapy | Mental Health Treatment | California
Complementary & Alternative Techniques and Interventions used with Complex Trauma Clients
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Chapters
00:22 - On Today's Episode
00:35 - Welcome Carol Melim
01:33 - Carol's Story
04:04 - RTC's, CFT's, Life Skills
04:55 - Making a Change to Help
05:48 - Respite
06:55 - Becoming a Therapist
07:57 - Unique Challenges
09:18 - Lacking Behavioral Support
11:47 - Having a Safe Space
12:53 - Navigating Therapy
15:18 - Maneuvering Within Therapy
16:57 - Knowing When Therapy is Needed
18:09 - Recognizing False Motivation
20:51 - Follow the Mama Duck
21:31 - The 'Why' Journal
23:02 - Changing Behavior
25:22 - You Don't Get Pie
27:41 - Fun in Parenting
28:58 - Identifying Urgent Scenarios
30:51 - Behavior Coaches
32:32 - When it's not just Trauma
33:55 - Beyond Therapy
35:14 - Leaving too Soon
36:38 - The Takeaway
37:20 - Resources
38:25 - Connect with Us!
38:46 - Thank You!