The Thoughtful Counselor
The Thoughtful Counselor is a podcast that is dedicated to producing great conversations around current topics in counseling and psychotherapy. We view counseling and psychotherapy as a deeply beautiful and complex process and strive to incorporate the art and science of the field in each episode.
info_outline
EP273: Queering Disabilities: Understanding Disability, the Forgotten Margin
05/10/2024
EP273: Queering Disabilities: Understanding Disability, the Forgotten Margin
Dèsa speaks with Dr. Tameeka L. Hunter about their 2020 article on Queering Disabilities. They do a deep dive into how counselors can better support clients experiencing seen and unseen disabilities. Dr. Hunter highlights the importance of leaning into uncomfortable moments by increasing our education and awareness to improve our cultural curiosity about disability work. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/31229567
info_outline
EP272: Youth Substance Recovery
04/26/2024
EP272: Youth Substance Recovery
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler talks with Dr. Andrew Finch, delving into the complexities of substance recovery for youth. They discuss the unique challenges young people face with substance use and highlight the shortcomings of support services during recovery. Dr. Finch sheds light on the concept of recovery high schools and advocacy efforts that have spurred their growth, offering valuable insights for counselors to enhance their support for young individuals and emerging adults navigating the path to recovery. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/30999383
info_outline
EP271: How Holistic Admissions Can Help Us Identify the Next Generation of Counselors
04/12/2024
EP271: How Holistic Admissions Can Help Us Identify the Next Generation of Counselors
Dominique S. Hammonds and Lucy L. Purgason describe holistic admissions in counselor education; a process that allows programs to determine if applicants have the capacity to be practitioners, not just successfully engage graduate study, which traditional admissions typically accomplishes. They walk us through the process of faculty establishing what a good counselor in their community looks like to how to structure interviews. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/30780148
info_outline
EP270: Are All "Black Folks" with Dreads for the Cause?
03/22/2024
EP270: Are All "Black Folks" with Dreads for the Cause?
In this podcast, we are going to explore intersectionality through a different lens. We are going to explore the, at times, taboo subject of intra-racism in African American culture and its possible impact on clients. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/30496933
info_outline
EP269: Social Justice Beyond the Counseling Office
03/08/2024
EP269: Social Justice Beyond the Counseling Office
In this episode, we examine the experiences of Dr. Christopher Townsend. Dr. Townsend takes us on a journey through advocacy and the courage to speak out against cultural injustice. Dr. Townsend has co authored Senate bills to repair laws that impact vulnerable clients. He shares his journey towards the state capitol and how he arrived at his own identity as a Social Justice Counselor and Educator. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/30294308
info_outline
EP267: People of Color Psychedelic Collective (POCPC)
02/09/2024
EP267: People of Color Psychedelic Collective (POCPC)
The POCPC brings psychedelic education to people of color. The organization creates spaces for people of color to learn about the harms of the war on drugs and the healing properties of psychedelics. Co-host Desa chats with Ifetayo Harvey about the formation of the organization, the growing use of psychedelics, and how communities can educate themselves about psychedelics. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/29583708
info_outline
EP266: From Passion to Purpose: A Conversation with Healing in the Margins
01/26/2024
EP266: From Passion to Purpose: A Conversation with Healing in the Margins
In this empowering episode, Jessica Tyler engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ashley Hampton, the Co-founder and Clinical Director of Hampton House Counseling, a groundbreaking QPOC group private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. Ashley is also the Executive Director of Healing in the Margins. This non-profit organization drives systemic transformation and fosters recovery through tailored mental health resources for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. Ashley shares her unwavering commitment to creating inclusive spaces and serving individuals in marginalized communities, shedding light on her community advocacy work to promote visible and accessible mental health and well-being in historically harmed communities. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/29583323
info_outline
EP265: Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers
01/12/2024
EP265: Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers
In this episode, Dr. Megan Speciale interviews Jamila Dawson, LMFT and Theodore Burnes, PhD on sex worker-affirming mental healthcare, the topic of their new book, “Essential Clinical Care for Sex Workers.” The authors discuss common issues faced by individuals involved in the sex industry, the impact of stigma and whorephobia on the mental and emotional well-being of sex workers, and the clinical priorities of sex worker-affirming counseling centered on sex-positivity and intersectionality. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/28781153
info_outline
EP264: Transitioning from Counselor to CES Doctoral Student
12/15/2023
EP264: Transitioning from Counselor to CES Doctoral Student
There are many counselors who are considering going back to school to get their PhD but are unsure what this process looks like. In this episode, Helen Jennings-Hood discusses her personal journey and insights that can help others if they are considering starting a doctorate program in Counselor Education and Supervision. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/28781718
info_outline
EP263: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
12/01/2023
EP263: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
In this episode, Dr. Mickey White talks with Dr. Stacey Williams to discuss her research and experiences with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We discuss what PCOS is and how PCOS impacts mental health, stigma, and resiliency across gender. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/28780098
info_outline
EP262: Worthiness, Values, and Self Love
11/18/2023
EP262: Worthiness, Values, and Self Love
Dr. Andy Choi shares his journey from his graduate education to his current role as a licensed psychologist. Andy shares how scholars, mentors, friends, and family influence his work today. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/28702983
info_outline
EP261: Unveiling Maternal Mental Health Truths
11/03/2023
EP261: Unveiling Maternal Mental Health Truths
In this episode, join Dr. Jessica Tyler in an enlightening conversation on maternal mental health with Kellie Wicklund, psychotherapist and Clinical Director of the Maternal Wellness Center. Kellie delves into her 20-year career, spotlighting her dedication to perinatal mental health and helping clients navigate the complexities of parenthood. Unpacking the layers of reproductive health psychology, Kellie shares insights into her therapeutic approach. She emphasizes the importance of seeing the discouragement, invisibility, helplessness, blame, and grief clients often experience and strategies to empower and support mothers as they navigate the transformative journey into parenthood. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/28510358
info_outline
EP260: Understanding Middle Adulthood Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens
10/20/2023
EP260: Understanding Middle Adulthood Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens
In our last episode of the series "Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens," Dr. J. Kelly Coker shares her work exploring middle adulthood development. She dives into topics that are not often discussed in public or the literature, including psychological, emotional, and physical changes that adults experience as they age. Dr. Coker tackles empty nesters, menopause, the sandwich generation, and more changes that adults experience as they age. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/28000323
info_outline
EP259: Lived Experiences of African American Women in Counseling Leadership
10/06/2023
EP259: Lived Experiences of African American Women in Counseling Leadership
In this episode, Dr. Asha Dickerson will discuss her journey as an African American women who has held several leadership roles in counseling. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27999621
info_outline
EP258: Lift As You Rise: Getting Involved in Counseling Leadership and Advocacy
09/12/2023
EP258: Lift As You Rise: Getting Involved in Counseling Leadership and Advocacy
Drs. Derek X Seward and Megan Speciale sit down for a compelling interview with Dr. Carlos Hipolito-Delgado as he shares his personal journey into counseling leadership and professional advocacy. Throughout this episode, Carlos offers invaluable insights on navigating counseling organizational structures, developing equity-focused approaches to leadership, and exploring the intersection of identity, leadership, and transformative change. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27987108
info_outline
EP257: The Neurodivergent Movement: A Multicultural Perspective
09/01/2023
EP257: The Neurodivergent Movement: A Multicultural Perspective
In this episode, Natasha Villalobos discusses her experience working with clients who identify with neurodivergent. She provides a multicultural lens on how to work with this population in an affirming, nonpathological way. Natasha describes how the movement towards more affirmative care for this population can increase connection while remaining person centered. For more on Natasha, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27905487
info_outline
EP256: Queer Womxn of Color: Healing and Liberation
08/18/2023
EP256: Queer Womxn of Color: Healing and Liberation
In this episode, Drs. Ana Guadalupe Reyes (they/elle) and Mónica Rodríguez Delgado (she/ella) share their experiences working with and on behalf of queer womxn of color in counseling. They discuss the importance of attending to the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality with queer womxn of color, as well as navigating sharing such nuanced lived experiences with their clients. Drs. Reyes and Rodríguez Delgado discuss bridging the gap between traditional counselor education and healing and liberatory practices for BIPOC clients. For more on Ana and Mónica, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27782493
info_outline
EP255: Racial Battle Fatigue
08/04/2023
EP255: Racial Battle Fatigue
In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons meets with Dr. Dèsa Karye Daniel to discuss the tenants of Racial Battle Fatigue. Throughout their conversation, they reflect on the experiences of Black Teachers and how sharing these experiences can change the narrative for future Black educators. Dr. Lyons gives examples of how mental health practitioners can support Black educators through culturally responsive practices. For more on Asia, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27657081
info_outline
EP254: The Intersection of Diagnosis and Social Justice
07/21/2023
EP254: The Intersection of Diagnosis and Social Justice
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler sits with Christine Banks-Van Allen to discuss the intersection between mental health diagnosis and social justice. We explore the real-life impact of diagnoses on individuals from marginalized communities, share stories highlighting the importance of cultural understanding, and uncover ways to advocate for change within our role as counselors. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that challenges conventional thinking and opens up possibilities for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to mental health diagnosing. For more on Christine, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27519087
info_outline
EP253: Understanding Emerging and Late Adulthood Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens
07/07/2023
EP253: Understanding Emerging and Late Adulthood Lifespan Development Through a Cultural Lens
In the fourth episode in our series on cultural and contextual approaches to lifespan development, Dr. Savitri Dixon-Saxon shares her expertise on the development of adults. She discusses emerging adulthood and late adulthood, challenging the way we think about aging. Dr. Dixon-Saxon talks about the biases that counselors may have about older adults and advocates for stronger education to prepare counselors to work with older adults. For more on Savitri, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27277971
info_outline
EP252: Hip Hop, Mental Health and Black Males
06/16/2023
EP252: Hip Hop, Mental Health and Black Males
In this episode, Dr. James Norris discusses how he utilizes hip hop music in his counseling practice to encourage authentic communication with clients. He gives practical suggestions on how to incorporate hip hop with clients who are drawn to this genre of music. For more on James, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27093558
info_outline
EP251: A Call to Action: Counselors Against Sex Trafficking
06/02/2023
EP251: A Call to Action: Counselors Against Sex Trafficking
In this episode, Drs. Romero, Interiano-Shiverdecker, and Prasath discuss their research lab and scholarly contributions to the topic of sex trafficking. They outline research findings and how they developed the CAST Lab. Implications for counselors, researchers, and educators are discussed. For more on Devon, Claudia, & Priscilla, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/27029355
info_outline
EP250: Let's Roll Play: D&D in Therapy
05/19/2023
EP250: Let's Roll Play: D&D in Therapy
Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) are an increasingly popular modality of therapy, especially among adolescents and young adults. One popular TTRPG is Dungeons and Dragons, a fantastical adventuring game that can address themes of connection, confidence, and self-exploration. In this episode, Julia Stamman shares her experiences as a Game Counselor facilitating virtual D&D therapy groups and provides some tips and tools for counselors who may be interested in running their own therapeutic campaigns. For more on Julia, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/26896098
info_outline
EP249: LGBTQ+ Communities of Color and Health Dispartities
05/05/2023
EP249: LGBTQ+ Communities of Color and Health Dispartities
Join Dr. Dèsa Daniel and Dr. James García as they discuss health disparities in LGBTQ+ communities of color, and how mental health providers can advocate for better care and services. They also talk about their work with students, mentorship, and the importance of HIV PrEP medication. Tune in to learn more about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals seeking affirming care, and what can be done to address these issues. For more on James, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/26759211
info_outline
EP248: Counseling for Undue Police Violence
04/21/2023
EP248: Counseling for Undue Police Violence
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Tyler talks with Dr. Darius Green about undue police violence (UPV) and the mental health impact on our clients. We discuss the concepts of police legitimacy, UPV, and Dr. Green’s article, Undue Police Violence Toward African Americans: An Analysis of Professional Counselors’ Training and Perceptions, published in the Journal of Counseling & Development with his co-author, Dr. Amanda Evans. This episode is for counselors exploring their attitudes and beliefs on topics associated with UPV and counselors interested in actionable steps, training considerations, and barriers to social justice advocacy. For more on Darius, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/26614611
info_outline
EP247: Demystifying the Court Experience
04/07/2023
EP247: Demystifying the Court Experience
In this podcast, Dr. Speedlin Gonzalez interviews judges from the criminal and civil courts to discuss counselors' roles in the judiciary. Three judges describe their experiences working with counselors and how valuable our work is with both arms of the law (criminal and civil). The judges also talk about the concept of therapeutic jurisprudence and how the law and counseling collaborate effectively to serve communities. For more on Judges Speedlin Gonzalez, Huff, and Torres, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/26475957
info_outline
EP246: Supporting Caregivers to Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury
03/17/2023
EP246: Supporting Caregivers to Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury
According to the CDC there were approximately 223,135 Trauma Brain Injury (TBI) related hospitalizations in 2019. TBI has a large emotional impact on the caregivers of these individuals. In this episode Dr. Kim Jenkins-Richardson will discuss practical ways that clinicians can provide support for the caregivers of individuals with TBI. For more on Dr. Kim Jenkins-Richardson, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/26264148
info_outline
EP245: Queering Counseling: LGBTQ+ Counselor Self-Disclosure in Practice
03/03/2023
EP245: Queering Counseling: LGBTQ+ Counselor Self-Disclosure in Practice
In this episode, Dr. Whitney Akers and Dr. Mickey White talk about their research and experiences disclosing queer and trans identities as counselors, educators, and supervisors. What is the role of identity disclosure in counseling? The decision-making processes are complex and nuanced. Drs. Akers and White explore the complexity of identity disclosure and the potential healing power of community, authenticity, and genuineness within counseling. For more on Whitney, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/26118378
info_outline
EP244: Community, Activism & Generational Challenges
02/03/2023
EP244: Community, Activism & Generational Challenges
Dèsa Daniel speaks with African American Student Services Director Brandi Stone on the generational challenges impacting leadership and students within Black communities. They process the triumphs made by Black elders who established Cultural Centers and Africana Studies during the civil rights movement. Director Stone discusses her experiences of "sitting at the table" while navigating conservative community spaces. They engage in a thoughtful conversation around mentorship, staying hopeful, and changing the question when someone tells you "no". Brandi and Dèsa explore how young Black professionals remain engaged despite the challenges they may experience. For more on Brandi, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/25924827
info_outline
EP243: Professional Protection: Safeguarding the Future of Counseling
01/20/2023
EP243: Professional Protection: Safeguarding the Future of Counseling
In this episode, Dr. Victoria Kress shares her work in advocacy and talks about the importance of counselors engaging in professional protection. She shares her "1-minute elevator speech" and emphasizes that, as counselors, we need to build a strong professional identity. Dr. Kress imparts strategies for "little a" and "big A" advocacy, with the aim of protecting our licensure laws, increasing resources and reimbursement opportunities for counselors, and strengthening our service to clients. For more on Victoria Kress links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at
/episode/index/show/thethoughtfulcounselor/id/25672368