#89 - Understanding the Existential and Emotional Toll of Infertility with Clinical Psychologist Dr Julia Sen
State Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
Release Date: 10/02/2025
State Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this episode, we explore the intersection of compassion, honesty, and responsibility in the context of addiction and mental illness. Join us as we discuss personal insights on how to apply boundaries, ethics, and values to help guide us in supporting loved ones on their recovery journey while maintaining our own boundaries. This is an incredibly difficult situation for many people. We use recent Reiner Family tragedy as an example of the pains of addiction and mental illness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Reiner Family Catastrophe 09:37 The Importance of Honesty in Parenting 12:28...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
What does effective therapy actually look like—and how would you measure it without turning the process into something cold or mechanical? In this episode, Mike sits down with Arron Lin—a UBC psychology graduate with a master’s in innovation & entrepreneurship from Queen’s, and a deep interest in the future of mental health. Arron is also currently studying counselling psychology, bringing a rare “both-sides” lens: the world of startups and systems on one hand, and the human realities of healing on the other. Arron shares his story of moving to Canada as a teenager,...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this conversation, Lauren Tetenbaum (therapist, author, former lawyer, and in my opinion creative genious) opens the discussion no one's ever really had. We discuss perimenopause, menopause, hormones, mental health, sex, aging, parenting, and why millennials are the generation to start the discussion. We get into all of it — the symptoms, the stigma, the mental load, the relationships, the workplace nonsense, the generational differences, the puberty/menopause overlap, the hormone therapy updates, and the very real emotional reality women navigate during midlife. Learn more about Laren...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
I recently returned from a trip to Rome, Italy, which reminded me of the illusion of the "geographical cure." This is the belief that changing my location will solve my problems, especially when it comes to addiction. During my nearly two decades of dealing with mental health and addiction issues, I found that I could abstain from getting high while on vacation or in a foreign country. However, this was only temporary relief. The real issue lies within me—my internal coping mechanisms and my inability to deal with life's challenges. Moving to a new place doesn't change that. True healing...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this conversation, Lawrence C Harris shares his inspiring journey of overcoming childhood abuse, Autism, and C-PTSD. He discusses the importance of self-love, the role of therapy in his recovery, and how he transformed his experiences into a career helping others. Lawrence emphasizes the significance of building trust within family dynamics, the lessons learned from therapy, and the importance of finding one's authentic self. He also highlights the influence of role models and the power of trying new things as a path to personal growth. Learn more about Lawrence -...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
Can we truly heal without facing our shadows? In this episode, Dr. Shahrzad Jalali dives deep into trauma, Jungian psychology, emotional awareness, and the critical role of personal experience in therapy. Her book The Fire That Makes Us explores how trauma shapes identity, and how shadow work can lead to meaningful healing and growth. We also explore how language, mindfulness, and connection can transform how we process pain and reclaim emotional presence. This conversation is a must-watch for anyone navigating mental health, personal development, or the philosophy of healing. [00:00]...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this conversation, Dr. Julia Sen, a clinical psychologist specializing in fertility, discusses the multifaceted challenges of infertility, including emotional, psychological, and financial aspects. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the medical processes involved, the emotional toll of unexplained infertility, and the necessity of counseling and support. The discussion also touches on societal pressures, the impact of stress, and the significance of awareness regarding biological clocks and fertility options. Dr. Sen advocates for open conversations about these issues to help...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this reaction video, I review a brief discussion between Jordan Peterson and Theo Von about the 12 steps for addiction recovery. I break down the psychology behind why AA works, the "God problem" that stops many people from trying AA, and I share why Step 4 was the most transformative experience of his life. Original source video Chapters [00:00] Introduction to Recovery and Personal Struggles [02:24] Understanding the 12 Steps of AA [07:00] The Ethos of AA: Do No Harm [08:03] Articulating Suffering and Healing [09:32] Finding a Higher Power Through Recovery 🎯 KEY TOPICS COVERED: ✅...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this conversation, the Mike & Dave who are two dads delve into the complexities and rewards of parenting, drawing insights from Jordan Peterson's parenting series. They discuss the balance between nurturing and encouraging children, the importance of responsibility, and the need for parents to be present and engaged. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication, understanding child development, and the long-term nature of parenting. The speakers reflect on their own experiences and the challenges they face, ultimately highlighting the value of embracing responsibility...
info_outlineState Of Mind Mental Health Podcast
In this conversation, AJ Murillo shares her profound journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of identity, relationships, and the transformative power of psychedelics. She discusses her experiences with ego death, the importance of emotional awareness, and the connection to the universe. AJ emphasizes the simplicity of living authentically and the significance of integrating psychedelic experiences into daily life. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the relationship with the universe and the divine, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of healing and growth. Learn...
info_outlineIn this conversation, Dr. Julia Sen, a clinical psychologist specializing in fertility, discusses the multifaceted challenges of infertility, including emotional, psychological, and financial aspects. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the medical processes involved, the emotional toll of unexplained infertility, and the necessity of counseling and support. The discussion also touches on societal pressures, the impact of stress, and the significance of awareness regarding biological clocks and fertility options. Dr. Sen advocates for open conversations about these issues to help those struggling with infertility feel less isolated and more supported.
https://drjuliasen.com/
Chapters
[00:00] Introduction to Fertility Challenges
[01:05] Understanding Infertility: Types and Causes
[03:09] The Emotional Toll of Infertility
[06:02] Navigating the Fertility Process
[09:05] Financial Burdens of Fertility Treatments
[11:54] The IVF Journey: Hopes and Disappointments
[14:44] Self-Blame and Control in Infertility
[18:00] Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems
[20:46] Group Therapy and Community Support
[23:45] Life After Infertility: Moving Forward
[26:29] The Importance of Awareness and Education
[29:15] Final Thoughts on Fertility and Support
Questions - hello@startswithme.ca
Disclaimer
Professional medical care and psychotherapeutic services are not offered on this Youtube channel. It is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such condition
Seeking professional support is encouraged if you think you have an issue and that you want help.