The Thoughtful Counselor

Dr. Amy Ritterbusch, associate professor of social welfare at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, shares her experiences with global participatory action research in Colombian and Uganda and describes her personal journal of liberation as an international Colombian adopted person. She also offers recommendations for collective and individual wellness in the midst of activism.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Thelamour discusses the intricate journey of acculturation among Black immigrant adolescents and emerging adults. She brings a multicultural lens to her research, focusing on the experiences of Black immigrants from African and Caribbean countries as they navigate their adjustment to Black American culture. Through engaging discussion, listeners will gain insights into how cultural dynamics shape the lives of immigrants and students of color. This thoughtful conversation considers consequences of the 2025 immigration changes occurring within the United States. Cultural Humility implications for students, clinical counselors, counselor educators, and school counselors are discussed.  For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at

Drs. Elliot and Murray discuss their program for training counselors to work in rural areas. They share the challenges they have faced and talk about how educators and supervisors can approach readying students to work in rural communities.  For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

This episode explores Dr. Stacey Litam’s newly released book Patterns that Remain: A Guide to Healing for Asian Children of Immigrants. Drs. Tapia and Litam navigate the impact of this book and the chapters that were so thoughtfully written. Join us for the laughs and tears that came from reflecting on the Patterns that Remain. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode we discuss the evolving needs of the trans and gender expansive community and what counselors can do to show up for this marginalized population. Dr. Clark Ausloos joins the podcast to discuss the population's needs, community building, and how counselors can show up as social justice advocates inside and outside of their offices. Listeners will learn concrete actions they can begin today to support and protect trans and gender expansive people. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, The Importance of Mentorship in Counseling, we explore how meaningful mentorship relationships shape personal and professional growth in the counseling field. Join us as we discuss the benefits of mentorship for both counselors-in-training and seasoned professionals, including skill development, navigating challenges, and fostering inclusivity. Whether you're a mentee seeking guidance or a mentor hoping to inspire, this episode offers actionable insights to enrich your counseling journey. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Kyrstin shares her professional experience working with survivors of narcissistic abuse. We discuss clinical signs that a client is in a relationship with a narcissist, strategies for empowering victims and survivors, and the importance of clinician self-awareness and self-care. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Abiola shares how she prioritizes breaking down the system to pave the way for others. Abiola and Dèsa discuss how Disturbing Inequity continues to break dominant narratives through social media. Abiola chats about her experiences overcoming racism and hate while speaking about her personal experiences with mental health. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Rachael Estes and Dr. Jessica Tyler dive into how ancient Stoic principles can be applied to modern counseling supervision, helping counselors build resilience in the face of challenges. They explore practical strategies for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and navigating stress, offering listeners actionable tools to strengthen their professional and personal well-being. Whether you’re a counselor, supervisor, or educator, this episode can inspire you to cultivate a more balanced and empowered approach to your practice. Join us for an insightful conversation on thriving in the counseling profession through the wisdom of Stoicism. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu  

In this episode, we talk about Fatmisia, a term meaning hatred of fatness. Gianna discusses how anti-fatness, diet culture, and fatmisia impacts our work and our lives. She provides information about the influence of capitalism and racism on the prevalence of anti-fatness and shares how she uses a disability justice lens and Bowen/Narrative interventions to work with clients. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Tiffanie Sutherlin discusses the pervasive issue of academic gaslighting, particularly as it affects BIPOC counselor educators. She explores the subtle and overt ways this phenomenon manifests in academic environments and its impact on professional identity and mental health. Listeners will gain insights into the unique challenges faced by BIPOC educators and discover strategies to combat these harmful dynamics. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Join Dr. Mickey White in a compelling conversation with Dr. Arien Muzacz, a researcher, educator, and clinician who specializes in working with kinky clients. In this episode, Dr. Muzacz shares her personal journey into the field and the ways in which counselors can better support and advocate for clients who practice consensual kink or asymmetry (CKA) in their relationships.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Dr. Darius Green speaks with Dr. Dèsa Daniel about this work centering an abolition framework in his teaching, research, and clinical work. They discuss confidentiality, ethics, and the power of being in community with each other. Finally the end with talking about abolition as an action tied directly to social justice.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Drs. Jessica Tyler and Simona Niculaes explore the complex emotional journey of individuals recovering from partner betrayal, especially in the context of sexual addiction. Drawing from clinical experience and key findings of a qualitative study, this episode examines common emotional and psychological challenges faced by partner survivors and the factors that facilitate post-traumatic growth and resilience. Listeners will gain insights into practical strategies that counselors can use to support and guide betrayed partners toward healing and growth. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Alisha Guthery talks about her work as a somatic practitioner. She describes somatic practice in counseling, how counselors can begin to include somatic approaches in their work, and how to grow as a somatic practitioner. We talk about client progress, other applications for somatic approaches, and how it can impact the personal life of the counselor. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

Tune in to this insightful episode as Dr. Jeff Cline explores the crucial role of integrating spirituality and religion in counseling. Offering actionable insights, Dr. Cline navigates the delicate balance between incorporating these facets into therapy while respecting the autonomy of the client. Gain practical wisdom on fostering a therapeutic environment that honors diverse belief systems without imposing the therapist's personal convictions. For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

In this episode, Dr. Kashunda McGriff talks about Relational Cultural Theory. RCT is a theory rooted in feminist and social justice that recognizes how people grow in and through connection. Dr. McGriff shares her experience as a counselor and professor using RCT as a conceptual framework for helping others.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu  

In this episode, Mickey speaks with Dr. Jordan B. Westcott about her work and research on counseling strategies and cultural considerations with older LGBTQ+ adults. We take a look at how ageist, heterosexist, and cissexist stereotypes create barriers for older LGBTQ+ adults accessing mental healthcare, and ways that providers can avoid and challenge common misconceptions about what it means to age as an LGBTQ+ person today.   For more on our guests, links from the conversation, and APA citation for this episode visit https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

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 https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu

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 https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast  The Thoughtful Counselor is created in partnership with Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies. Learn more at concept.paloaltou.edu