Humanizing Mental Health

In this episode Trent, Amy and Jeremy use the therapeutic story "The Magic Kitchen" This story is adapted by Richard Schwartz and helps in understanding how we work with the parts of ourselves to find a sense of internal cohesion. In particular this story is a metaphor for how we connect inward to become healthy in order to be able to connect outward in romantic relationships. It is the old mental health adage that one must be able to have a healthy, loving relationship with themself to be able to have a healthy, loving relationship with others.

We integrate the ideas and themes brought up in the story and discuss how this relates to mental health.

In this episode Jeremy and Trent answer questions that Amy Alcorn prepared about the rising prevalence of Mental Health conditions in our world. We discuss factors and variables that have influenced the trend towards high numbers of people with mental health diagnosis.

This is the second episode in our mental health frequently asked questions series. In this episode Trent and Jeremy answer frequently asked questions about different counselling practice theories and how they work

This is another hypnosis script by Jeremy. This is a general healing it can be used to support mental and physical health.

Today we compare and contrast compassion and empathy where compassion is seen as an action oriented response and empathy is understood as holding emotional space for another person or being in the emotion with the other person.

We are joined by Doctor Nicole OBarto-Trainer

Nicole received her doctorate in counselling psychology from West Virginia University. She was clinically trained in the Department of Psychiatry at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. She also has specialized training in the integration of mind body therapies in the treatment of chronic gastrointestinal disorders and somatic disorders from the Allegheny Center for Digestive Health. Dr. Trainer has been studying integrative mental health since 2009 and has advanced training in mindfulness-based interventions, HeartMath biofeedback, and functional approaches to depression and anxiety, including nutrition, micronutrient therapy, and amino acid therapy. 

Dr. Trainer has been working in private practice since 2011. She founded Native with the intention to shift the conversation in mental health care away from deficits and subjective lists of symptoms treated largely with pharmaceuticals to one focused on innate health and the integration of evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies. Further, Dr. Trainer believes that a more dynamic and holistic approach to mental health treatment would better prepare an individual for the lifelong process of understanding their emotional self and taking care of their mental health.

Dr. Trainer is also passionate about raising mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding seeking help for mental health problems. She encourages a conceptualization of mental health that is more fluid and allows for occasional disruptions in emotional wellbeing to be embraced as a natural part of the human experience and not pathologized.

You can get more information at https://nativeclinics.com/

Or contact Nicole at nicole.trainer@nativeclinics.com

For more more information about Trent and Jeremy please connect at https://psynergycentre.ca/

Or connect with us on facebook at Humanizing Mental Health

Pain is a not a well understood phenomena. This episode is a hypnosis script that is intended to both help reduce and potentially completely remove chronic pain by creating a new understanding of what pain is and what purpose it has served so that you can let it go.

This is a hypnosis script designed to help you turn off your thoughts and drift into sleep.

In this episode Amy askes Jeremy and Trent frequently asked questions about mental health. There are questions about specific mental health concerns, about population health, about medication and others.

This is another Hypnosis script that is created to help reduce and eventually remove any symptoms of anxiety and panic. Anxiety and panic are part of the alarm system of the body and can become sensitized by life experiences. If you can interrupt the loop between the body alarm system and the thought processes associated with panic then you can end the panic attack. It only take 3 minutes for the body to metabolize the adrenaline flowing through your body. In other words it only take three minutes for a panic attack to end.

We are joined today by Corrina Bateson. You can see more of our team at https://psynergycentre.ca/

Corrina is a Masters Level Registered Social Worker (Clinical Specialization) and Certified Canadian Counselor. She enjoys working with children, adults, seniors, and families. Concerns ranging from physical and emotional pain, mood, anxiety and personality issues, emotional regulation, neurodevelopment challenges, and intrapersonal and interpersonal concerns. In the last 20+ years, Corrina has worked in schools alongside children, within federal and provincial government systems, and in the community supporting those with addictions and mental health concerns.

Corrina likes to view situations through a holistic lens, as life has more than one approach, or perspective, or outcome. She is also a Trauma Informed Yoga Instructor and is trained in Usui Reiki Level 1 & 2. Through connection, support, collaboration, and embracing the possibilities together, Corrina holds a safe, non-judgmental and private space for you.

Today we are joined by team member Kathleen Curliss for a Psynergy Series episode. Kathleen will be the first person you meet at the front desk or hear on the phone as our office administrator aka Captain of the Psynergy ship & gate master! Kathleen comes to us with years of experience as a special education assistant, a respite worker, home care and disability services worker. She is a compassionate, engaging, creative problem solver who we’re sure you’ll find a comforting and joyous soul.
Kathleen is currently completing the Administrative Office professional certificate program at Medicine Hat College. Her keen eye for attention to detail, creative problem solving, organizational skills are an asset to helping Psynergy Centre run efficiently and effective for our best client experience. 

Many people struggle with boundaries and it negatively impacts their emotional and mental health. When people talk about boundaries they are usually talking about keeping someone else out of their life in some way or another. We take a very different perspective on boundaries in this episode. We discuss internal boundaries and how our boundaries function to keep us safe and healthy from the inside out rather than from the outside in.

In this episode Trent and Jeremy are joined once again by Derrick Lillico to talk about addiction recovery.

Addiction recovery refers to the process of overcoming substance abuse or behavioral addictions and achieving a state of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It involves a combination of medical treatment, therapy, support systems, and lifestyle changes to help individuals break free from the cycle of addiction and maintain long-term wellness.

We discuss some of the personal process of recovery for Derrick and how he is using his experience to benefit the lives of others.

This is a script created and recorded by Jeremy Hypnosis can be an effective tool for behavior modification related to anger management. During hypnotherapy sessions, therapists can provide suggestions and imagery that help individuals reframe their thoughts and beliefs about anger. By replacing negative thought patterns with positive ones, individuals can learn healthier ways to cope with anger triggers and respond more constructively in challenging situations. Hypnosis can also assist in building new coping mechanisms, such as relaxation techniques or visualization exercises, which can be utilized when faced with anger-inducing circumstances.

In today's episode we discuss the tenants of cognitive behavioural therapy and how cognitive distortions relate to our functioning.

cognitive-behavioral  focuses on the interplay between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It posits that the perspective a person takes can contribute to psychological distress, and by identifying and challenging these cognitive distortions, individuals can change their emotional responses and behaviors. Cognitive-behavioral therapists employ various techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral experiments, exposure therapy, and skills training to help clients develop healthier thinking patterns and coping strategies. This perspective is highly structured and goal-oriented, aiming to alleviate symptoms by modifying dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors.

Cognitive distortions refer to patterns of thinking that are irrational, biased, or distorted, leading individuals to perceive reality inaccurately. These distortions can have a significant impact on one's emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Understanding cognitive distortions is crucial in the field of psychology as they play a role in various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and personality disorders

Hypnosis for weight management is a technique that has gained popularity in recent years as a potential tool for helping individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Hypnosis, also known as hypnotherapy, is a therapeutic approach that involves inducing a trance-like state in an individual to promote relaxation, focus, and suggestibility. During this state, the individual becomes more receptive to positive suggestions and can potentially change their thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes towards food and eating habits.
Hypnosis for weight management works by targeting the subconscious mind, which is believed to be responsible for many of our automatic behaviors and habits. By accessing the subconscious mind through hypnosis, it is possible to identify and address underlying issues or beliefs that may be contributing to weight gain or difficulty in losing weight. These issues can include emotional eating, low self-esteem, stress, or negative body image.
One of the main goals of hypnosis for weight management is to reprogram the subconscious mind with positive suggestions and affirmations related to healthy eating habits, portion control, exercise motivation, and self-confidence. By reinforcing these positive messages during hypnosis sessions, individuals may experience an increased sense of control over their eating behaviors and find it easier to make healthier choices.

This is a script recorded by Jeremy for Stress Reduction

Clinical hypnosis offers a range of benefits for stress reduction, including reduced physiological responses, altered brain activity, enhanced immune function, improved sleep quality, increased self-awareness, emotional release, improved mood, reduced anxiety, increased focus and concentration, and promotion of relaxation and well-being. If you're looking for a natural, non-invasive way to reduce stress and improve your overall health and well-being, consider giving hypnosis a try.

This a a script Jeremy recorded for improving self esteem

The human brain consists of three main parts: the conscious, subconscious, and superconscious minds. The conscious mind is responsible for our rational thinking and critical analysis, while the subconscious mind processes emotions and memories. Clinical hypnosis works by accessing the subconscious mind and reprogramming negative thought patterns and behaviors.
The process typically begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's history, symptoms, and goals. Once the therapist has a clear understanding of the patient's needs, they will use various techniques to induce a state of trance, during which the patient becomes more relaxed and open to suggestion.
There are several different methods used in clinical hypnosis, including progressive relaxation, guided imagery, and direct suggestion. Progressive relaxation involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to achieve a state of deep relaxation. Guided imagery involves using vivid visualization to create a peaceful and calming environment. Direct suggestion involves making positive affirmations to the subconscious mind to replace negative thought patterns.
Once the patient is in a state of trance, the therapist will use a variety of techniques to help them explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This may involve exploring past traumas or negative experiences, identifying and challenging negative beliefs and behaviors, and developing coping strategies and skills. Clinical hypnosis has numerous benefits, including:
1. Reduced anxiety and stress: By accessing the subconscious mind, patients can learn to manage their anxiety and stress levels more effectively.
2. Improved sleep: Clinical hypnosis can help patients overcome insomnia and other sleep disorders by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
3. Enhanced self-esteem: By challenging negative beliefs and behaviors, patients can develop a more positive self-image and improve their overall self-esteem.
4. Increased motivation: Clinical hypnosis can help patients overcome procrastination and increase their motivation to make positive changes in their lives.
5. Pain management: Clinical hypnosis can be used to manage chronic pain by altering the patient's perception of pain and promoting relaxation.

In this episode Trent and Jeremy discuss chronic pain.

The book referenced in the episode is "The Way Out" by Alan Gordon and Alon Ziv

The psychology of pain is a complex and multifaceted field that seeks to understand the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of pain perception and experience.
Pain Perception:
Pain perception is the initial stage in the psychology of pain. It involves the detection and processing of noxious stimuli by specialized nerve endings called nociceptors. Nociceptors are found throughout the body and are particularly concentrated in areas such as the skin, muscles, and internal organs. When these receptors are activated by potentially harmful stimuli, they send electrical signals to the brain, which are then interpreted as pain.
The perception of pain is influenced by various factors, including the intensity and duration of the stimulus, individual differences in pain sensitivity, and psychological factors such as attention and expectation. For example, studies have shown that individuals who are anxious or fearful tend to perceive pain more intensely than those who are not. Similarly, distraction techniques or engaging in activities that require focused attention can reduce the perceived intensity of pain.
Psychological Factors:
Psychological factors play a crucial role in shaping the experience of pain. One such factor is the individual's cognitive appraisal of the pain stimulus. Cognitive appraisal refers to how an individual interprets and evaluates a situation. In the context of pain, cognitive appraisals can influence how threatening or controllable a painful stimulus is perceived to be. Research has shown that perceiving pain as uncontrollable or highly threatening can lead to increased distress and amplification of pain perception.
Emotions also play a significant role in pain perception. Negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, and depression can heighten the experience of pain by increasing attention towards it and amplifying the emotional response. Conversely, positive emotions and social support have been found to have analgesic effects, reducing pain perception and improving coping mechanisms.
Pain and the Brain:
The brain plays a central role in processing and modulating pain signals. The primary regions involved in pain processing include the somatosensory cortex, which receives and interprets sensory information, and the anterior cingulate cortex, which is responsible for the emotional and cognitive aspects of pain.
Neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have provided valuable insights into how the brain processes pain. These studies have revealed that pain activates a network of brain regions involved in sensory processing, emotion regulation, attention, and memory. Additionally, neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself in response to experience, plays a significant role in chronic pain conditions. Long-term exposure to pain can lead to structural and functional changes in the brain, contributing to the persistence of pain even after the initial injury or stimulus has resolved.
Psychological Interventions:
Given the intricate relationship between psychology and pain, psychological interventions have become an essential component of pain management. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one such intervention that has shown promising results in reducing pain intensity and improving overall well-being. CBT aims to identify and modify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors related to pain, thereby promoting healthier coping strategies.
Mindfulness-based interventions have also gained popularity in pain management. Mindfulness involves paying attention to present-moment experiences without judgment. By cultivating awareness of bodily sensations and thoughts related to pain, individuals can develop a more accepting attitude towards their pain, reducing suffering and improving quality of life.

In this episode Trent and Jeremy are joined by Hailey and Brian Alcorn. They own and operate Medicine Hat Music Lessons.

Music has a profound impact on mental wellness, as it can influence our emotions, thoughts, and overall well-being. Numerous studies have explored the therapeutic benefits of music, demonstrating its ability to alleviate stress, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, enhance mood, improve cognitive function, and promote relaxation. The effects of music on mental wellness are multifaceted and can be attributed to various mechanisms.

Emotional Regulation: Music has the power to evoke strong emotions and elicit emotional responses. Listening to music can help individuals regulate their emotions by providing an outlet for expression and catharsis. It can serve as a form of emotional release, allowing individuals to process and cope with their feelings. Additionally, music can evoke positive emotions such as joy, happiness, and nostalgia, which can counteract negative emotions and contribute to overall mental well-being.

Stress Reduction: Music has been shown to have a significant impact on reducing stress levels. When we experience stress, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone associated with the body's stress response. Listening to calming music has been found to lower cortisol levels, leading to a reduction in stress. Moreover, engaging in active music-making activities such as playing an instrument or singing can also serve as a form of stress relief by diverting attention away from stressful thoughts and promoting relaxation.

Anxiety and Depression Relief: Music therapy has been widely used as an adjunct treatment for anxiety and depression. Research has demonstrated that listening to music can reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation and decreasing physiological arousal. It can also provide a distraction from anxious thoughts and help individuals shift their focus to more positive experiences. In the case of depression, music therapy has been shown to improve mood, increase self-esteem, and enhance social interaction.

Cognitive Enhancement: Music has the ability to stimulate various areas of the brain involved in cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and executive function. Playing an instrument or engaging in musical activities requires coordination, concentration, and the integration of multiple sensory modalities. These processes can enhance cognitive abilities and improve brain function. Moreover, music has been found to enhance memory retrieval and learning, making it a valuable tool in educational settings.

Pain Management: Music has been shown to have analgesic properties, meaning it can reduce pain perception. Listening to music activates the brain's reward system, releasing endorphins and other neurotransmitters that can modulate pain signals. This effect is particularly evident in chronic pain conditions, where music therapy has been found to reduce pain intensity and improve overall well-being.

Social Connection: Music has a unique ability to bring people together and foster social connections. Participating in group music-making activities such as choirs or bands promotes a sense of belonging and camaraderie. It provides opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and self-expression, which are essential for mental well-being. Additionally, shared musical experiences can create a sense of unity and solidarity among individuals.

Sleep Improvement: Music has been shown to have a positive impact on sleep quality. Listening to relaxing music before bedtime can help individuals unwind and prepare for sleep. It can induce a state of relaxation, slow down heart rate, and lower blood pressure, promoting a more restful sleep. Music therapy has also been used to treat sleep disorders such as insomnia by establishing a bedtime routine and creating a calming environment conducive to sleep.

We all have a variety of emotions that we experience. Our society has moved in a direction in which the only acceptable emotions are the so-called positive ones. This is detrimental to our mental health. In this episode Trent and Jeremy discuss why we need to be able to accept and feel all of our feelings.

Have you ever wondered why therapy works for some people sometimes? Other people seem to not benefit. Yet the same person that did not benefit from therapy at another time, even with the same therapist, has dynamic life altering effects. In this episode we explore the idea of motivation as it relates to mental health and to life.

In this episode Trent and Jeremy discuss the process of therapy and a common theme that has been happening lately. As therapist we want people to experience transformational change and we reflect on therapy from a therapist perspective and how we might help people moving from "just talking about their problems"

In this episode we are joined by Joeleene Brassard fellow Masters level Social Worker. She provides therapeutic intervention for children who have complex medical needs and their families. Joeleene has seen first hand with her own child, who has an extremally rare medical condition, the difficulty and trauma that happens during medical care. We do not intend to blame or shame the medical system or the medical practitioners. Most of the time the medical practitioners are trying their best to be compassionate. Although we have all probably had our experiences with a Doctor or Nurse that we wonder why they chose to be in the medical felid as they don't seem to have an ounce of compassion. We explore and humanize the experience of needing ongoing medical care for complex medical needs and Trent shares his experiences as a person with cerebral palsy. Trent shares how he has come to normalize the experience for himself both through acceptance strategies and learning how to become an advocate for himself.

In this episode Trent educates us on a particular methodology of therapy know as internal family systems.

According to the IFS institute

IFS is a transformative tool that conceives every human being as a system of protective and wounded inner parts lead by a core Self. We believe the mind is naturally multiple and that is a good thing. Just like members of a family, inner parts are forced from their valuable states into extreme roles within us. Self is in everyone. It can’t be damaged. It knows how to heal. 

IFS is frequently used as an evidence-based psychotherapy, helping people heal by accessing and healing their protective and wounded inner parts. IFS creates inner and outer connectedness by helping people first access their Self and, from that core, come to understand and heal their parts.  

But IFS is much more than a non-pathologizing evidence-based psychotherapy to be used in a clinical setting. It is also a way of understanding personal and intimate relationships and stepping into life with the 8 Cs: confidence, calm, compassion, courage, creativity, clarity, curiosity, and connectedness. Professionals from many different backgrounds such as, but not limited to, legal mediation, school administration, life coaches and religious leaders may utilize IFS to inform and guide their work. Our growing list of educational programs aims to serve not only therapists but the wider public and other professions.  

We are joined today by one of the current Masters level practicum students Michelle Ksenych. Michelle has been practicing for the last 7 years with a bachelor's degree in social work and is currently working on a master's degree in counselling psychology. Today we talk about the spectrum of care that is available in mental health and help people to navigate or negotiate what is the right kind of help that they need. We  answer the question: where do I start in getting mental health care?

Jenelle joins us for a conversation about health and healing from an indigenous perspective.

Here is an introduction to Jenelle:

câk nit ishinihkâson (my name is), Jenelle McArthur. Ahcâhk (spirit name), Chasing Bear.

I am from Ocean Man First Nation, Treaty 4 Territory. I am Dakota and Nakota (Sioux, Assiniboine, and Plains Cree). I also have Scottish ancestry, which is where my last name, McArthur, originated.

I am an Indigenous Social Worker. I accredit my education to the First Nations University of Canada. I studied in Regina, Sk. and Saskatoon, Sk. I’ve also received education from The University of British Columbia, Vancouver Campus (Trauma Informed Institute) and St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia Campus (COADY International Institute).

I am an experienced Community-Based Researcher applying Indigenous methodologies. As a helper within our communities, I’ve spent most of my time within program creation and community development. I am grateful for knowledge acquired within restorative justice and family reunification. I am a compassionate trauma-informed iskwew (woman) with lived experience, which I believe is the most valuable within the work that I’ve done and will continue to do for our communities.

Currently, I am in a Clinical Graduate Degree Program. My educational journey has guided me towards completing a Master of Indigenous Social Work Graduate Degree. I envision this journey to be one of metamorphosis. Like the journey of a caterpillar that has gone into the chrysalis to one day become a butterfly.

My concentration areas are within Indigenous Spirituality, Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness (NOSC) and Plant Medicine Healing. I am training to become a Psychotherapist that specializes in  (NOSC) Integration. Internal-Family System (R. Schwartz) is a focus and I’ve also been immersed within the learning applications at the Centre of Applied Jungian Studies (Carl Jung). I also resonate deeply with Compassionate Inquiry (Gabor Mate) and utilize this inquiry within my therapeutic practice.

Trent and Jeremy are joined by Lisa Mitchell Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Registered Acupuncturist.

This episode introduces Dr. Lisa Mitchell of Points Acupuncture and Herbs at Psynergy! Lisa is a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and a Registered Acupuncturist. She received her accreditation from The Canadian Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Since graduating, she has been practicing in her own clinic. She is currently studying to become a Master Herbalist.
Prior to becoming an Acupuncturist, Lisa worked at The Inn From The Cold and The Drop-In Centre in Calgary, AB. Working with a diverse group of people with varying needs began her journey in assisting people discover the cause of their pain and suffering. She wanted to empower people on their health journey which led her to find her passion in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This practice incorporates Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, gua sha, moxibustion, cupping and dietary therapy.
Dr. Lisa Mitchell’s practice as a Registered Acupuncturist benefits her clients by getting to the root cause of issues instead of simply treating symptoms. The benefits of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine are endless. She treats patients with anxiety, depression, insomnia, hormonal imbalances as well as sciatica, TMJ issues, back pain, migraines/headaches, skin disorders to name just a few.
Lisa knows your wellness is dependent on the many professionals you include in your health journey. She believes Chinese Medicine has been a hidden gem to most and she is eager to share her knowledge with you.

In this episode Trent and Jeremy talk about what ending therapy looks like. There are many reasons why therapy ends as there are a variety of variables such as insurance companies, EAP, and other stakeholders. In addition, therapists have large caseloads and their goal is to have their clients resolve their concerns and not need to see them. Sometimes the ending is the therapist's idea and sometimes it is the client's idea. We talk about what an ending looks like both when it is therapist driven and how you can talk to your therapist about ending if you feel you no longer need ongoing therapy.

This episode is about healing trauma and consolidating memories so that they can be put away and the effects of the trauma can be released. In this episode Jeremy describes recent Insight that has unlocked the dissociative memories associated with events that happened in a trauma experience from his childhood. If you have not listened to the “humans behind the mic part one” then you might want to listen to that episode first. Jeremy models a process in which trauma memories can be consolidated so that they have less of an impact on your functioning and on your life.

Jeremy laments the toxic effects of a world that is increasing in the means and modalities of communication technology. Do you find yourself increasingly frustrated, anxious and maybe even resentful of the number of things you have to keep track of? From multiple email addresses to the myriad of other methods of communication complicating your social integrations. At some point in time these tools move well beyond their intended purpose of increasing connection between people and create complexity and stress in peoples lives.  

In this episode we are joined by Derrick Lillico a colleague that we work with out of the Psynergy Centre.   Derrick’s passion for helping people has always been a part of who he is and we are grateful to have him at Psynergy Centre. Having lived experience growing up with a stutter, undiagnosed mental health and addiction struggles, Derrick brings a wealth of lived experience, knowledge and wisdom to working with clients. After a life-threatening brain injury, Derrick began to learn to empower himself through knowledge in order to overcome his struggles and begin his recovery journey through psychology and science. His personal testimony has been used in military and community settings as well as to reach young people in education settings to provide hope and resiliency to those who are struggling with brain injuries, addiction, PTSD and mental health un-wellness. Derrick has a special place in his heart for our military, first responders and their families dealing with disabilities but especially anyone who can’t find their place in this world.

Derrick always finds ways to meet people where they are at and is willing to meet in the community where people are comfortable. He has come to understand that his stutter and authenticity are superpowers that allow him to connect with unique individuals in ways they can relate to. Derrick has completed his ORCA-Recovery Coach training and is working towards formal certification upon completion of his practical hours. Derrick’s variety of work from 12 step programs to harm reduction along with a variety of multidisciplinary professionals and treatment systems has allowed him to connect people with whatever support speaks to their own soul. His collaboration with other organizations and non-profits has allowed him to experience the health care system from both sides. Derrick continues to be a leader in creating and building a Recovery Community in Medicine Hat with his other collaborators and believes our city can become a Healing Hub.

All health practitioners have an ethical requirement to gain consent when providing health care. Mental health care has some unique dynamics in the process of informed consent. Trent and Jeremy discuss what it means to truly have "informed" consent in mental health care. 

We are joined once more by Leah Fischer who is a psychologist that Trent and Jeremy practice with at Psynergy Centre in Medicine Hat Alberta Canada. Leah has years of experience of working with people from a developmental attachment based perspective. She is certified in providing perinatal therapy. She brings this practice wisdom to our conversation as we discuss the foundations of human mental health and wellness. Join us as we reflect on the possibilities of improved mental health to individuals and the possibility of increasing mental wellness in our broader tribe (families, communities, society).   

Trent and Jeremy practice with a group of other clinicians at the Psynergy Centre in Medicine Hat Alberta Canada. It’s time we make Introductions. We will intersperse these introductions throughout our episodes. Each clinician brings something unique to Psynergy Centre. Leah is Registered Provisional Psychologist who for the last 25 years she has dedicated her time to helping individuals and families navigate difficult circumstances and issues to uncover their best life!

Leah focused her master’s research from 2016-2021 on pre and post natal anxiety and depression, miscarriages, and infant loss and today she remains passionate about women’s issues. She is also the PSI Perinatal Regional Support Coordinator for Southern Alberta!

Trent and Jeremy practice with a group of other clinicians at the Psynergy Centre in Medicine Hat Alberta Canada. It’s time we make Introductions. We will intersperse these introductions throughout our episodes. Each clinician brings something unique to Psynergy Centre. Dakota is a Registered Social Worker with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. Dakota has worked in the human service field​ for several years, the last three years counselling youth and families in the community. Dakota offers counselling and skill-building​ services to children 7+, teens and individuals utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Dakota has additional education in addiction counselling and eating disorders and is passionate in these areas.

We are joined once again by our colleague Shirley Jones. We elaborate on our discussion we had in her Psynergy Series introduction. We Speak more fully about her method of healing practice and how it expands upon the mainstream views of western medicine practice.

https://psynergycentre.ca

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/trenton-akers-medicine-hat-ab/781175

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/jeremy-clark-alcorn-medicine-hat-ab/780854

https://www.facebook.com/HumanizingMentalHealth/

Trent and Jeremy practice with a group of other clinicians at the Psynergy Centre in Medicine Hat Alberta Canada. It’s time we make Introductions. We will intersperse these introductions throughout our episodes. Each clinician brings something unique to Psynergy Centre. Shirley is a holistic practitioner that studied Touch for Health and Body Management which uses acupressure points to free energy along the energy meridians in the body. Shirley also has studied Iridology, Reflexology, Homeopathy, Hatha Yoga, Permaculure, Light Therapy and Botany to create further understanding of how intricate and innately intelligent our bodies are if we get out of the way and allow them to heal.  Shirley is a nutritional consultant who specializes in ayurvedic and raw nutrition. Shirley is a certified Biofeedback Specialist and has personally experienced the healing that happens when using this technique. She has worked with biofeedback for 14 years and has helped many clients regain their health. Shirley also does adrenal fatigue resets and neurolinguistic programming. Shirley most recently studied Wolfe Non-Surgical Deep Tissue Therapy. Each session focusses one hour on the area of concern and is extremely effective at breaking up crystallization, calcification, and scar tissue and promoting healing and blood circulation. This is not massage but deep tissue therapy.

https://psynergycentre.ca

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/trenton-akers-medicine-hat-ab/781175

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/jeremy-clark-alcorn-medicine-hat-ab/780854

https://www.facebook.com/HumanizingMentalHealth/

We are joined once again by Rod Dorn, one of the therapists practicing at the Psynergy Centre Health and Wellness. We discuss one specific aspect of his practice which is working with individuals that have been involved in the criminal justice system.  This is a humanizing conversation about a group of people that is shunned by society because of the harms that they have caused other people. Our intent is to have a respectful and reconciling conversation recognizing that our current criminal justice system does not bring about any type of restorative or healing affect either for the victim of crime or for the perpetrator of those crimes.

https://www.facebook.com/birchbaycounselling

https://www.birchbaycounselling.com/

https://psynergycentre.ca/team/

Jeremy shares an experience with a trauma trigger. He describes how he found resolution through the process of identifying the source of the trigger and integrating the experience. While individuals with PTSD would benefit from listening to this, most individuals are vulnerable to trauma triggers.     

The Psynergy series on Humanizing Mental Health

Trent and Jeremy practice with a group of other clinicians at the Psynergy Centre in Medicine Hat Alberta Canada. It’s time we make Introductions. We will intersperse these introductions throughout our episodes. Each clinician brings something unique to Psynergy Centre. Rod was born and raised in rural Alberta. Prior to 2009, he has worked in a variety of industries from farming and truck driving to engineering and supervising construction projects. Rod was first inspired to become a counselor while listening to the radio in the cab of his semi truck. That was roughly 15 years ago. Rod spent time away from his wife and family to go to university; two degrees later, here he is. Rod is a fully registered psychotherapy practitioner proficient in treating a range of personal issues with people of many ages and walks of life utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). He also a certified HeartMath practitioner and provides Biofeedback therapy!

https://psynergycentre.ca

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/trenton-akers-medicine-hat-ab/781175

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/jeremy-clark-alcorn-medicine-hat-ab/780854

https://www.facebook.com/HumanizingMentalHealth/

https://www.birchbaycounselling.com/

https://www.facebook.com/birchbaycounselling

Hypnosis can be a very powerful healing tool. In the previous episode we talked about psychedelics and their healing capacity through getting into a trance-like state and reorganizing the relationship one has with themself other people and the world. Hypnosis can get a person into a trance-like state without any drugs  required. Jeremy is  trained in clinical hypnosis. In this episode we discuss clinical hypnosis and then we pause as Jeremy hypnotizes Trench working on issues associated with fear. We conclude the episode by processing trance experience and integrating it.

https://psynergycentre.ca/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/trenton-akers-medicine-hat-ab/781175

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/jeremy-clark-alcorn-medicine-hat-ab/780854

https://www.facebook.com/HumanizingMentalHealth/