Rediscovering Play for More Secure Connections with Children – and Adults (256)

*Special Release* – LIVE panel discussion with Dr. Stephen Porges at the Clinical Conversations webinar Ann and Sue share a special conversation with Dr. Stephen Porges where they explore how modern attachment meets Polyvagal theory. From the evolution of attachment theory to understanding bodily states and how they influence our interactions, they dive into the intricate relationships between emotional expression, brain function, and therapeutic techniques. Together they explore the Safe and Sound Protocol and its role in promoting engagement as well as insights into the application of these techniques both professionally and personally. “If you want to improve the world, start by making people feel safer.” – Dr. Stephen Porges Time Stamps for How Modern Attachment Meets Polyvagal Theory 06:53 The evolution of attachment theory 21:07 Broadcasting our states in relationships 28:16 Understanding vocal tone and emotional expression 39:31 The role of safe and sound protocol in therapy 43:52 Accessing regulated states through listening therapies 47:31 Exploring the ventral-vagal connection 50:21 Applications of SSP in mental and physical health About Our Guest – Dr. Stephen W. Porges Stephen W. Porges, Ph.D., is a Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University and founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium. A leading researcher in psychophysiology, he has held professorships in psychiatry and neuroscience and has published over 400 peer-reviewed papers. Dr. Porges is best known for developing Polyvagal Theory, which explores the connection between the autonomic nervous system, social behavior, and mental health. He has authored several influential books and created the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a music-based intervention for improving emotional regulation and social engagement. He is also a co-founder and Ex Officio Board Member of the Polyvagal Institute. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Our Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Stay hydrated and feel your best by visiting curehydration.com/TU and using promo code TU at checkout. Compare high quality, in-network doctors, choose the right one for your needs, and click to instantly book an appointment. Go to ZocDoc.com/TU Looking for more? Find Upcoming Events here!! Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. Use our link for a discount! Thanks for stopping by & for being on this journey with us!

25 Mars 58min

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Taking Sexy Back: A Journey to Empowerment with Dr. Alexandra Solomon This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Alexandra Soloman – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Dr. Ann Kelley and Dr. Alexandra Solomon discuss her book ‘Taking Sexy Back,’ exploring the intersection of gender and sexuality, the impact of societal messages on women’s sexual experiences, and the importance of self-advocacy in relationships. They dive into the complexities of desire, body image, and the influence of patriarchy on both men and women – emphasizing the need for emotional awareness and connection in intimate relationships. Explore the evolving landscape of sexuality across generations and the impact of online dating and pornography on sexual experiences. “We are taught to serve, to focus on others, but we need to notice our own feelings.” – Dr. Alexandra Solomon Time Stamps for Taking Sexy Back: A Journey to Empowerment with Dr. Alexandra Solomon (261) 02:47 The intersection of gender and sexuality 11:52 Impact of body image on desire 14:52 Patriarchy’s influence on men and women 17:55 Emotional complexity in masculinity 28:05 The impact of pornography on sexual experiences 36:45 Embodiment and mindfulness in sexuality 41:50 Exploring pleasure and connection in relationships About our Guest – Dr. Alexandra Solomon Alexandra H. Solomon, PhD, is internationally recognized as one of today’s most trusted voices in the world of relationships, and her framework of Relational Self-Awareness has reached millions of people around the globe. A couple therapist, speaker, author, professor, podcast host, and media personality, Dr. Alexandra is passionate about translating cutting-edge research and clinical wisdom into practical tools people can use to bring awareness, curiosity, and authenticity to their relationships. She is a clinician educator and a frequent contributor to academic journals and research, and she translates her academic and therapeutic experience to the public through her popular and vibrant Instagram page, which has garnered over 200K followers. She is an adjunct professor in the School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University and is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice. Her hit podcast, Reimagining Love, has reached listeners across the globe and features high-profile guests from the worlds of therapy, academia, and pop culture. She is the award-winning author of Taking Sexy Back: How to Own Your Sexuality and Create the Relationships You Want, Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want, and Love Every Day: 365 Relational Self-Awareness Practices to Help Your Relationship Heal, Grow, and Thrive. Find Upcoming Events here!! Special Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice  Our Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. Use our link for a discount! Thanks for stopping by & for being on this journey with us!

18 Mars 16min

Desire is a liberating force Dr. Ann Kelley and Shadeen Francis, LMFT unpack the intricate nature of desire, extending beyond just the sexual realm. They unpack the challenges in identifying true desires, the role of embodiment in self-awareness, and the key distinction between wanting and liking. Together they discuss intimacy, self-discovery and communication – with an emphasis on the need for negotiation and authentic connection in sexual experiences. “The simplest of all luxuries is the freedom to pursue your pleasure.” – Shadeen Francis Time Stamps for Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire 05:15 The challenge of identifying desire 17:58 The nuances of wanting vs. liking 25:01 Desire in sexual contexts 35:07 Negotiating wants in relationships 44:41 The impact of technology on desire 56:30 Desire as a tool for liberation About our Guest – Shadeen Francis, LMFT, CST Shadeen Francis is a licensed marriage and family psychotherapist and a board-certified sex therapist. Her expertise spans the domains of mental health, emotional intelligence, and the intersection of sexual wellness and social justice. A sought-after voice in her field, Shadeen has been featured on major networks including ABC, NBC, and CBS, and has been the subject matter expert for prominent brands such as Essence, Bumble, Tinder, and Teen Vogue. Shadeen’s work extends beyond the therapy room, influencing nationally implemented curricula, global media strategies, and public health policies. Known for her signature brand of warmth and humor, Shadeen’s work is inspired by her commitment to helping people live lives full of peace and pleasure. Resources for Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire shadeenfrancis.com – Shadeen’s website, resources, and other information hello@shadeenfrancis.com – The best way to contact Shadeen @shadeenfrancis – Shadeen’s Instagram handle Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu More goodness for your body and mind – Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/TU Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. Use our link for a discount! Thanks for stopping by & for being on this journey with us!

11 Mars 1h 5min

Sex, gender queerness, and the power of connection … Dr. Emily Nagoski joins co-host Sue Marriott for a deep and insightful conversation about desire, pleasure, and the impact of societal norms on sexuality. Together they explore the evolving landscape of trans rights and healthcare, emphasizing patient-centered care and the urgent need for societal support. Through her journey as a sex educator, Nagoski advocates for deeper understanding and connection, while also sharing practical approaches to educating young people about gender and sexuality, managing stress, and finding meaning and purpose in life. “Talking about sex is my absolute favorite thing.” – Dr. Emily Nagoski Time Stamps for Pleasurable Sex, Gender & Boundaries (259) 01:02 The intersection of sex, boundaries, and burnout 08:04 The importance of pleasure over desire 11:48 Creating a safe and supportive context for pleasure 20:07 Challenging the gender binary 31:50 The evolution of trans rights and healthcare 37:40 Tactical approaches to gender education About our Guest – Dr. Emily Nagoski Emily Nagoski is the award-winning author of the New York Times bestselling Come As You  Are and Come Together, as well as The Come As You Are Workbook, and coauthor, with her  sister, Amelia, of New York Times bestseller Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle.  She earned an M.S. in counseling and a Ph.D. in health behavior, both from Indiana University,  with clinical and research training at the Kinsey Institute. Now she combines sex education and  stress education to teach women to live with confidence and joy inside their bodies. She lives in Massachusetts with two dogs, a cat, and a cartoonist. Resources for Pleasurable Sex, Gender & Boundaries Click here to access her newsletter EmilyNagoski.com – Website, resources and other important information  @ENagoski – Instagram profile Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle – Book by Dr. Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski Feminist Survival Project – Her current podcast with co-host Amelia Nagoski Come As You Are – (Limited Series, 2022) – Podcast Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice   Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Want to stay hydrated and feel your best? Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Visit curehydration.com/TU and using promo code TU at checkout.  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu Choose the right doctor for your needs – compare high quality, in-network options, and click to instantly book an appointment. Go to ZocDoc.com/TU Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there.  Use our link for a discount! Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us!

25 Feb 1h 4min

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Exploring Disorganized / Unresolved Attachment with Dr. Krista Jordan This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Krista Jordan – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Dr. Krista Jordan & co-host Sue Marriott LCSW CGP dive into the messy, fascinating world of the 4th attachment category – disorganized attachment. Through intimate personal stories, they describe how it shows up in therapy, relationships, and everyday life. They explore the Adult Attachment Projective (AAP) and Adult Attachment Interview (AAI), unpacking what is sometimes called disorganized, unresolved, dysregulated, dissociated attachment that can ripple through generations. Learn how dismissive strategies work so well they can stop us from growing, why feedback (and a little distress) is crucial for self-awareness, and how shame and anger are often two sides of the same coin. Time Stamps  06:05 Personal experiences with attachment styles and finding our she was “disorganized” 11:59 Exploring dismissive and disorganized strategies 17:58 Therapeutic approaches to unresolved trauma and inner child work 27:08 Dissociation and adaptive strategies in attachment 35:31 The spectrum of unresolved attachment styles 43:09 Shame and anger: A complex relationship 52:42 PACT Therapy: Addressing disorganization in couples About our Guest – Dr. Krista Jordan Dr. Krista Jordan, expert on Disorganized Attachment Dr. Jordan received her PhD in Clinical Psychology from UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas in 1996. Her training included children and adults and focused on psychodynamic theory in treatment. She went on to establish a private practice in Austin, Texas in 1998 and has been treating clients through individual and couples therapy for the past 26 years. Dr. Jordan trained with Dr. Stan Tatkin, the originator of the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy from 2008 until 2022 and is a Certified PACT therapist. Dr. Jordan was also appointed to the Research Faculty at the PACT Institute in 2023 and is the Principle Investigator of the first outcome study being conducted on PACT. She is passionate about treating individuals and couples from an attachment and interpersonal neurobiology approach as well as contributing to research in the field. Throughout her career she has applied these interests in a variety of contexts, including training post-doctoral residents (25 to date!), designing and running outcomes studies for various treatment programs and teaching both high school, undergraduate and graduate students. In 2024 Dr. Jordan became certified to administer the Adult Attachment Projective and continues to train with Dr. Carol George. In her free time Dr. Jordan enjoys hanging out with her husband Russell (of 26 years!) and their two children. She also volunteers with the Blanton Museum and acts as a foster dog mom for Austin Pets Alive. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice

18 Feb 17min

Liberation isn’t fixed … it’s fluid We’re kicking off February with a powerful conversation with the incredible Pam Benson Owens. Alongside co-host Sue Marriott, they explore what it means to live with purpose, navigate systemic challenges, and find liberation in everyday choices. Pam shares her wisdom on the role of self-care in activism, the courage it takes to engage in difficult conversations, and how fear shows up in DEI work. This episode dives deep into the intersection of personal and organizational growth, touching on themes of vulnerability, belonging, and the evolving landscape of diversity and identity. Sue and Pam also tackle honest conversations about race and privilege, the “messy middle” of personal transformation, and why pacing yourself is essential for long-term impact. “Liberation is a lot of things… sometimes it is my ability not to raise my voice in anger, some days liberation is saying no. Sometimes liberation is the freedom to realize that I don’t always have to make it my mission to have a deep opinion about something. I have really enjoyed that the idea that liberation isn’t fixed, it’s fluid…” – Pam Benson Owens Time Stamps for The Power of Liberation: Courage, Identity & Growth with Pam Benson Owens (257) 10:03 Engaging with difficult conversations 14:57 The importance of self-care in activism 25:12 The role of fear in DEI work 39:44 Balancing vigilance and connection 50:01 Embracing the messy middle of growth 56:22 Next steps: Pacing and purpose About our Guest – Pamela Benson Owens  Pamela Benson Owens is the President and CEO of Edge of Your Seat Consulting, Inc and retired from the CEO of Six Square in September of 2024. For more years than she cares to admit to, Pam has owned Edge of Your Seat Consulting, a unique consulting firm that is dedicated to assisting for-profit, nonprofit, and faith-based entities. The major focus of Edge of Your Seat Consulting, Inc., is to provide methodologies that help manage perceptions and narratives about complex and challenging issues with courage and strategic passion. She is an advocate and ambassador for healthy organizational cultures and communities. Pam often leverages humor and honest storytelling to create memorable and applicable strategies for sustainable and substantive change. She serves the community in a variety of capacities with the intentional motive of building a stronger and more equitable community. Pam serves on several non-profit boards, is the co-chair of the Black Fund a partnership with Austin Community Foundation, joyfully serves on the faculty of the Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Austin Community College, is often a guest lecturer at institutions of higher learning and thrives on the opportunities her consultancy work paves the way to assist organizations to be stronger by navigating the nuances of organizational culture. She is a proud Texas A&M Aggie where she earned a degree in Journalism and a certification in Diversity Education and completed her graduate work at St. Edwards University with a master’s in Human Services with a concentration in Conflict Resolution/Mediation. Pam has also completed coursework at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, holds a certification in DEI from Cornell, is Hogan and Daring Leadership certified, is a self-professed book nerd and lifelong learner, has a new book called The Lessons of Lists, has an online coffee business with all four members of her family called 4TheCultureCoffee, that directs a percentage of the proceeds back to BIPOC nonprofit organizations in the Central Texas region, and you can hear her weekly on her Podcast, Rooted. She resides in Austin with her spouse, Arlyn, and two exceptionally amazing kids, Preston, and Allyson. Resources for The Power of Liberation: Courage, Identity & Growth with Pam Benson Owens (257) PamelaBensonOwens.com – Website, information & resources The Lessons of Lists – book by Pam Benson Owens Pamela Benson Owens: Aligning with Influence – ATX Woman article Find her on Instagram – @pamelabensonowens @edgeofyourseatconsulting & @4theculturecoffee Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed.  In addition, recieve exclusive episodes recorded just for you and have input in topics you would like to learn more about. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice   Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu More goodness for your body and mind – Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/TU Our go-to gut health fix! Check out AG1 at AthleticGreens.com/TherapistUncensored Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there.  Use our link for a discount! Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us!

11 Feb 1h 1min

Hello 2025! Join Matthias Barker in kicking off the year exploring family estrangement, AI in therapy & much more… In this episode, hosts Ann and Sue sit down with renowned psychotherapist Matthias Barker, who has built a transformative mental health platform regularly impacting over 11 million souls who learn and consume quality mental health information. The conversation weaves through several important themes: the delicate balance of delivering mental health guidance through social media, the complex terrain of parent-child estrangement in modern families, and the lasting impact of religious trauma. The discussion evolves into an exploration of spirituality in the digital age, including thought-provoking perspectives on artificial intelligence’s role in shaping human consciousness and connection. This nuanced conversation bridges practical psychological insights with broader questions about human connection in an evolving technological landscape. “We inherit more than genetics from our families—we inherit patterns, beliefs, and ways of relating. Healing means choosing which ones to keep and which ones to let go of.” – Matthias Barker Time Stamps for Family Estrangement, Spiritual Harm, & the Ethics of AI in Therapy with Matthias Barker (255) 05:54 Generational perspectives on estrangement 12:10 Understanding emotional dynamics in families 18:12 Spiritual harm and its impact 34:55 The intersection of technology and mental health 45:08 Exploring ethical dilemmas of AI in therapy About our Guest – Matthias Barker  Matthias is a psychotherapist recognized for his expertise in making complex mental health concepts accessible, with a special focus on parent-child estrangement. He is the CEO of the Trauma Institute which provides clinical training for psychotherapists and education for the general public on healing from trauma. Matthias is widely recognized for his unique approach to making mental health knowledge and skills accessible to the wider public. His ability to translate complex topics into relatable everyday language has empowered millions to heal from their past, repair relationships, and take control of their mental well-being. Through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and his top-ranking Spotify podcast, Matthias delivers psychoeducational content to a following of over 4 million people. His innovative blend of engaging content and relevant mental health advice has fostered a vibrant online community centered on healing, personal growth, and moving towards what’s meaningful despite hardship. Aside from his online presence, Matthias is an accomplished author and educator. He has self-published several short books and interactive mental health journals, offering a distinctive trauma-informed approach to topics like grief, motivation, burnout, and gratitude. In addition, he has built a diverse library of interactive general public workshops on themes such as anxiety, relational intimacy, and healing from trauma, further establishing his commitment to sharing knowledge and resources for both clinicians and the general public. Resources for Family Estrangement, Spiritual Harm, & the Ethics of AI in Therapy with Matthias Barker (255) Estrangement.com – Sign up here for The Healing Estrangement MatthiasJBarker.com – Matthias’ website, with resources and other information Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed.  In addition, recieve exclusive episodes recorded just for you and have input in topics you would like to learn more about. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice   Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms!  Listeners get 20% off plus a free starter kit.  Piquelife.com/tu Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/TU Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended class for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there.  Use our link for a discount!  Thanks for listening, friends, & for being on this journey with us!

14 Jan 1h