Defying Norms In Mental Health Care

“The self-care was the choice to not go for the job that was sucking the life out of me.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie connects with Rebecca Sidoti, the dynamic founder of Mind by Design, a virtual mental health practice based in New Jersey. Rebecca shares the innovative ways her practice breaks from traditional methods to make mental health care accessible and effective, including using VR for exposure therapy and offering ketamine treatments for PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. With a rebellious spirit rooted in personal experience, Rebecca’s journey from Catholic school to pioneering virtual therapy reflects a lifelong resistance to unnecessary norms.

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This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

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Rebecca explains how Mind by Design embraces alternative approaches to therapy, helping clients face fears head-on with VR technology that allows for a gradual, controlled exposure to anxiety-inducing situations. This approach proved successful even for clients who hadn’t flown in nearly two decades. Rebecca’s empathy and creativity are evident as she shares stories of how unconventional methods like these have helped her clients reclaim their lives. She also highlights her personal commitment to self-care through art, particularly pottery, and reflects on the value of aligning one’s work with personal passion.

Through this conversation, listeners are encouraged to confront uncertainty, embrace their own rebellious paths, and do things scared if necessary. Rebecca’s insights provide practical advice for anyone looking to break free from conventions and pursue their own way in life and business.

Cool Things Rebecca Says

“Uncertainty isn’t a threat. We don’t have to react to it like fight or flight.” 
“Do it scared. Do it uncertain. No guts, no glory.” – Rebecca Sidoti
“The self-care was the choice to not go for the job that was sucking the life out of me.” – Rebecca Sidoti
“I wasn’t allowed to wear pants. That’s so crazy!” – Rebecca Sidoti
“Failure is only when we accept it. It doesn’t exist if we keep going.” – Rebecca Sidoti

Episode Highlights

Rebecca shares the unconventional beginnings of her journey into mental health care and the rebellious experiences that shaped her mindset.
Exploration of Mind by Design’s unique virtual and community-based therapy model, focusing on accessibility and personalization.
A deep dive into VR exposure therapy and its effectiveness in treating phobias and anxiety, including an inspiring client success story.
The introduction of ketamine therapy in Rebecca’s practice and how it assists in treating PTSD and treatment-resistant depression.
Rebecca’s personal story about defying norms and finding her purpose despite challenges, including a reflection on her formative years in a Catholic school.
The role of art and pottery in Rebecca’s self-care routine, and how creativity keeps her grounded.
Rebecca’s advice for embracing uncertainty, learning from failure, and moving forward without fear.

Links from Episode

Rebecca Sidoti on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-sidoti-lcsw/)
Mind by Design – Rebecca Sidoti’s virtual mental health practice (https://mindbydesignllc.com/)
Mind By Design Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/MindByDesignCounseling/)
Fuck Anxiety Workbook (https://mindbydesignllc.com/therapy-worksheets-mental-health-resources/)
In the Whale – Two-person punk band recommended by Michael Dargie (https://www.inthewhalecult.com/)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM
Guest: Rebecca Sidoti, MINDBYDESIGNLLC.COM