The Flex Factor: The Psychology Podcast of Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health
The Flex Factor is a psychology podcast created by the clinicians of Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health Inc. We are a group of professional psychologists, psychotherapists and registered mental health professionals committed using psychological science and psychotherapy to create psychological flexibility, wellbeing and growth. We chase conversations with researchers, clinicians & thought leaders who inspire us, challenge us, and teach us to bring out the best in ourselves, our community and the world. Let's go like a river.
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Dr Mallory Frayn on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Eating Disorders
01/17/2025
Dr Mallory Frayn on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Eating Disorders
In this episode of 'The Flex Factor,' Dr. Mallory Frayn, who specializes in the treatment of impulse-related concerns, discusses the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for treating eating disorders, an increasingly prevalent mental health issue complicated by diet culture. She explores how ACT's components—values, acceptance, distress tolerance, and mindfulness—can enhance traditional behavioral treatments like CBT by addressing the underlying emotional challenges associated with disordered eating. Dr. Frayn provides practical interventions, shares research insights, and answers questions about integrating ACT into therapy, particularly for individuals who have not responded to other treatments. The episode emphasizes the importance of a holistic, flexible approach to mental health and introduces valuable strategies for clinicians working with eating disorders. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 01:19 Meet Dr. Mallory Frayn 02:31 Understanding Eating Disorders 04:23 Behavioral Treatments for Eating Disorders 11:24 ACT and Its Application in Eating Disorders 16:53 Values in Eating Disorder Treatment 24:32 Acceptance and Distress Tolerance 29:05 Prioritizing Relationships Over Food Anxiety 29:54 Understanding Urge Surfing in Behavioral Therapy 30:56 Mindfulness and Acceptance in Eating Practices 32:58 Exploring Mindful Eating Techniques 34:30 Addressing Hunger and Satiety Cues 37:58 Food Exposures and Behavioral Experiments 39:51 Integrating Values, Acceptance, and Mindfulness 40:36 Q&A: Practical Applications and Research Insights 48:49 Confronting Diet Culture and Weight Bias 55:38 Closing Remarks and Future Directions
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Dr John Weekes on Understanding and Addressing Substance Use and Addiction within Canada’s Criminal Justice System
01/17/2025
Dr John Weekes on Understanding and Addressing Substance Use and Addiction within Canada’s Criminal Justice System
Understanding and Addressing Substance Use and Addiction within Canada’s Criminal Justice System This episode of The Flex Factor features John Weekes PhD, an expert in forensic and behavioral sciences, affiliated with Carleton University and University of Saskatchewan. He discusses his extensive work in substance use and addiction within Canada's criminal justice system. John elaborates on the roles of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) and outlines the significant challenges faced by individuals involved in the correctional system, especially concerning substance use. The presentation highlights the alarming costs and devastating impacts of substance use in Canada, and the importance of evidence-based treatment programs. John also emphasizes the need to shift the perspective on substance use from a justice issue to a health and social issue, and advocates for collaborative, person-centered approaches for effective treatment. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 00:37 Guest Speaker Introduction: John 02:20 Overview of Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction 04:24 Substance Use in Canada: A Snapshot 08:18 Challenges in Substance Use Treatment 14:21 Substance Use and Criminal Justice 18:09 Patterns of Substance Use Among Incarcerated Individuals 32:42 Effective Treatment Strategies for Substance Use 36:01 Client Treatment Matching Model 49:42 Global Challenges in Drug Use 50:00 Novel Psychoactive Substances 50:27 Harm Reduction in Prisons 50:49 Personal Reflections and Surprising Changes 52:07 Audience Interaction and Final Thoughts 54:09 The Role of Emotions in Addiction 59:29 Education and Rehabilitation 01:10:41 Moderation vs. Abstinence 01:19:46 Nature vs. Nurture in Addiction 01:33:21 Closing Remarks and Future Directions
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Dr Emily Moore on Pain Reprocessing Therapy
01/17/2025
Dr Emily Moore on Pain Reprocessing Therapy
Dr Emily Moore on Unraveling Chronic Pain Through Pain Reprocessing Therapy In this episode of The Flex Factor, Dr. Emily Moore from Stanford University discusses the transformative potential of Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) for managing chronic pain. Highlighting the role of brain perception in pain generation, she explains how learned neural pathways can perpetuate pain even in the absence of tissue damage. Dr. Moore details the compelling research behind PRT and its promising results, including the key concepts of predictive coding, neuroplasticity, and the psychological components of pain. Through real-life anecdotes and scientific explanations, she underscores the importance of teaching the brain to perceive pain as safe to break the pain-fear cycle. The conversation also explores parallels between chronic pain and anxiety management, emphasizing the holistic approach needed for effective treatment. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of chronic pain treatment and mental health integration. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 00:47 Introducing Dr. Emily Moore 02:05 Understanding Pain Reprocessing Therapy 04:13 The Power of the Brain in Pain Perception 07:26 Predictive Coding and Pain 10:24 Pain Reprocessing Therapy Explained 27:12 Somatic Tracking and Mindfulness 33:03 Observing Pain Like a School of Fish 33:22 Humor and Lightness in PRT 33:47 Somatic Tracking and Avoidance Behaviors 36:22 Managing High and Low Pain Intensity 37:40 Limitations of Somatic Tracking 38:50 Applying PRT to Anxiety 44:25 Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy 47:16 Concluding Thoughts and Resources 48:25 Q&A Session 59:47 Closing Remarks and Future Directions
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Riley Desmarais MA RP on APA Clinical Guidelines for TGNC Youth
01/10/2025
Riley Desmarais MA RP on APA Clinical Guidelines for TGNC Youth
In this episode of The Flex Factor, host Riley Demarais, a registered psychotherapist at Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health, Inc., presents the American Psychological Association Clinical Guidelines for psychological care of transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) youth. Demarais discusses the mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQ2S+ community, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode covers the APA's guidelines broken down into clusters, focusing on foundational knowledge, stigma reduction, lifespan development, and effective psychological practices for TGNC individuals. Resources and support services available in Ottawa, Canada for TGNC youth are also highlighted. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor 00:46 Meet Riley Demarais 02:17 Understanding TGNC Youth Mental Health 05:06 APA Guidelines for TGNC Care 06:33 Foundational Knowledge and Awareness 12:18 Stigma, Discrimination, and Barriers to Care 17:29 Lifespan and Development of TGNC People 22:47 Assessment, Therapy, and Interventions 33:32 Research, Education, and Training 37:51 Resources and Conclusion
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Dr. Jennifer Fernie on Mentalization Based Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder & More
01/02/2025
Dr. Jennifer Fernie on Mentalization Based Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder & More
In this episode of The Flex Factor, Dr. Jennifer Fernie, a clinical psychologist specializing in childhood trauma and personality difficulties, provides an in-depth look at Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT). She discusses the principles and development of MBT, its application in treating borderline personality disorder, and its adaptation for other mental health issues. Dr. Fernie also outlines the process of becoming an accredited MBT therapist and emphasizes the importance of mentalizing in understanding and managing emotional and relational challenges. This episode aims to spark a deeper understanding of psychological flexibility among listeners. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 00:46 Introducing Dr. Jennifer Fernie 01:25 Dr. Fernie's Background and Expertise 02:59 Overview of Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT) 06:16 The Importance of Mentalization 08:28 Development of Mentalizing and Its Challenges 14:18 Mentalization in Borderline Personality Disorder 16:01 MBT Intervention and Therapist Stance 21:44 Recognizing Non-Mentalizing Modes 25:07 Good Mentalizing Practices 26:51 Q&A and Practical Examples 29:36 Video Demonstration by Bateman 31:09 Checking In: How Have You Been? 31:42 Court Case Anxiety: A Weekend of Nerves 32:02 The Day of the Court: Managing Emotions 33:54 Reflecting on the Court Experience 40:03 Mentalizing-Based Therapy (MBT): Research and Findings 44:17 MBT in Practice: Group Adaptations and Training 52:43 Becoming an MBT Therapist: Training Pathways 55:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Dr Simon Hatcher on Narrative Exposure Therapy for Complex PTSD
01/02/2025
Dr Simon Hatcher on Narrative Exposure Therapy for Complex PTSD
Exploring Narrative Exposure Therapy for PTSD and Complex Trauma In this episode of The Flex Factor, host Dave Hesidence, associate of Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health and director of the Therapy Research Center at the University of Ottawa, introduces Dr. Simon Hatcher, interim chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa and a practicing psychiatrist at the Ottawa Hospital. Dr. Hatcher discusses narrative exposure therapy (NET), focusing on its effectiveness in treating complex PTSD and survivors of multiple traumatic events, especially those affected by organized and political violence. The discussion covers the foundations of NET, its application in low-income settings, the importance of restructuring traumatic memories, and practical steps for therapists, including drawing lifelines and processing memories. Real-life examples, patient interactions, and the therapy’s suitability for different populations are also explored. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 00:48 Meet Dr. Simon Hatcher 02:56 Understanding Narrative Exposure Therapy 07:07 The Science Behind PTSD and Memory 10:40 Implementing Narrative Exposure Therapy 13:44 The Lifeline Technique in NET 18:01 Therapist's Role and Techniques in NET 21:08 Final Steps and Reflections in NET 26:44 Legal Applications of Narration 27:05 Treatment Planning and Endings 27:42 Managing Dissociation in NET 28:09 Challenges of Virtual Therapy 29:06 Overview of NET 29:37 Questions and Answers 36:52 Comparing NET and EMDR 40:21 Training and Implementation 50:31 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
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Dr. Steve Hickman on Self Compassion for Dummies
01/02/2025
Dr. Steve Hickman on Self Compassion for Dummies
This episode of The Flex Factor features Dr. Steve Hickman, Executive Director of the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion. Dr. Hickman discusses his journey from a skeptic to a proponent of self-compassion, highlighting its transformative impact on individuals struggling with self-criticism. He explains the components of self-compassion, its practical applications, and how it can facilitate behavior change. The episode includes practical exercises and thoughtful dialogue on integrating self-compassion into mental health practices. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 00:46 Welcoming Dr. Steve Hickman 02:21 Dr. Hickman's Journey with Mindfulness and Self-Compassion 05:08 The Power of Self-Compassion 07:17 Understanding Self-Compassion Components 10:40 Addressing Misconceptions About Self-Compassion 14:40 Behavior Change and the Inner Critic 18:23 Exploring the Inner Critic and Trickster 31:42 Practical Exercise: Motivating Ourselves with Compassion 46:28 Reflections and Closing Remarks 55:51 Outro and Final Thoughts
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Dr Kelly Wilson on Diving into Darkness: Compassion and Suicide
01/02/2025
Dr Kelly Wilson on Diving into Darkness: Compassion and Suicide
The Flex Factor: Embracing Suffering with Dr. Kelly Wilson In this powerful episode of The Flex Factor, the clinicians of Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health, Inc. host Dr. Kelly Wilson, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of Mississippi and co-founder of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Dr. Wilson shares his deeply personal journey from struggling with suicidal thoughts to becoming a beacon of hope and healing through ACT. The conversation covers the importance of psychological flexibility, the impact of social isolation, and practical advice for therapists and individuals dealing with mental health crises. Dr. Wilson offers unique insights into how embracing suffering and vulnerability can lead to profound personal growth and connection. The episode also touches on alarming statistics surrounding suicide and discusses the role of social media and cultural attitudes in exacerbating feelings of isolation. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 00:46 Meet Dr. Kelly Wilson: Pioneer of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy 01:54 Trigger Warning and Sensitive Themes 02:18 Dr. Wilson's Personal Journey with Suicide 07:37 Global and Local Suicide Statistics 11:24 Understanding Social Isolation and Suffering 16:29 The Role of Social Media and Cultural Influences 30:07 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Principles 42:49 Practical Advice for Therapists and Helpers 54:52 Navigating Social Isolation During the Pandemic 57:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Dr Norman Farb on Understanding the Role of Sensation in the Prevention of Depression
01/02/2025
Dr Norman Farb on Understanding the Role of Sensation in the Prevention of Depression
Exploring the Default Mode Network and Psychological Flexibility in Depression In this episode of The Flex Factor, hosted by clinicians from Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health, Inc., Dr. Farb discusses the role of the default mode network (DMN) in depression and anxiety. By exploring research and clinical studies, the discussion delves into how the DMN impacts self-referential narratives and elaborative storytelling, particularly under emotional distress. The conversation highlights the importance of sensation-focused practices, such as mindfulness, to combat harmful cognitive habits. Dr. Farb emphasizes the need for skillful navigation of therapeutic techniques to enhance psychological flexibility and resilience. The episode concludes with insights into various therapeutic approaches and the significance of fostering a growth-oriented mindset in mental health practices. 00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor 00:46 Understanding the Default Mode Network 01:40 Depression and the Default Mode Network 02:38 Emotional Triggers and Brain Activity 04:59 Research on Recurrent Depression 07:09 Mindfulness and Cognitive Therapy 11:09 The Role of Sensory Practices 13:23 Developing Resilience and Wellness 16:09 Q&A Session 25:43 Closing Remarks
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