Thoughts on Record: Podcast of the Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Navigating relationships with emotionally immature parents can evoke very strong reactions, which can be difficult to navigate. In many clinician's experience, when this topic comes up, people tend to react in one of three ways: defending their parents as perfect, blaming them for all their struggles, or questioning their own perceptions entirely - all of which can create stuck points. Author and psychologist, Dr. Lindsay Gibson, who has written and lectu...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Assessing & treating adult ADHD can be both very challenging as well as highly rewarding for client and clinician alike. Psychologist & author, Dr. Russell Ramsay joins us for an in-depth discussion of the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD building on themes in his new workbook, The Adult ADHD and Anxiety Workbook. In this discussion we cover: why Dr. Ramsay wanted to write a workbook focused on both ADHD and anxiety and why indivi...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Many clinicians experience a sense of helplessness around effectively managing calls from loved ones of an individual living with a mental illness who is not willing to engage in treatment. There is frequently an impression that little can be done until the affected individual wants to change. Dr. Alec Pollard joins us for a discussion of he and his co-authors new book "When a Loved One Won't Seek Mental Health Treatment". In this conver...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Dialectical behavior therapy or DBT is a wonderful suite of tools that help people to be more effective with respect to managing their emotions and becoming more interpersonally effective. These are challenges that often loom especially large for those who are highly sensitive. Emma Lauer, LCSW joins us for a discussion of her workbook DBT Skills for Highly Sensitive People. In this conversation we cover: what inspired Emma t...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!In addition to being a topic that appears frequently in the realm of pop psychology, emotional intelligence is a subject of serious, rigorous academic inquiry. Clinical psychologist & author, Dr. Stephanie Catella joins for us for a discussion of core-themes in her new book The Emotional Intelligence Skills Workbook: Improve Communication and Build Stronger Relationships. In this conversation we cover: why Dr. Catella wan...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Bipolar disorder is often thought of as a mental disorder that is treated exclusively with medication when in fact there are a number of evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques that can be used to complement traditional pharmacotherapy. Dr. Holly Swartz joins us for a discussion of the core themes in her new book, Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder. In this conversation we cover:a brief overview of bipolar disorderwhat Social Rhyth...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Challenges related to attachment in relationships - especially in the context of romantic relationships - can evoke very strong emotions and behavioral urges that can often backfire, sometimes causing the very thing we fear most; namely, the dissolution of a relationship. Psychologist, author, speaker & teacher, Dr. Leslie Becker-Phelps joins us for a discussion of her latest release, The Insecure In Love Workbook. In this discussion we co...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The last decade has seen the ascendency of a number of "public intellectuals" who have come under increasing scrutiny around allegations of misinformation, conspiracy mongering, grifting & intellectual inconsistency. Importantly, many have achieved "guru" status with millions of followers and devotees on YouTube and other social media platforms. Professors & podcasters, Drs. Matt Browne & Chris Kavanagh joins us for a conversation ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Mindfulness is an area of clinical and intellectual focus which has grown tremendously in popularity and includes many secular practices such as breath work, body scanning & self-compassion. OICBT psychologist Dr. Kiran Vadaga joins us for an in-depth conversation in which explore observations around the importance, and potential benefits, of being a more mindful observer of our feelings (particularly those which are pleasant. In this conv...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!CBT interventions are often favoured for being empirically supported; however, it is not always clear how efficacy of these interventions maps to the actual functioning of the brain. Esteemed neuropsychologist and psychoanalyst, Dr. Mark Solms, joins us for an in-depth discussion of the clinical implications of his research into the biological underpinnings of consciousness as discussed in in his wonderful book, The Hidden Spring: A Journey to the S...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!There has been increasing discussion of the metabolic basis of mental disorders and the potential benefit a low-carb/ketogenic approach could hold with respect to the treatment of mental disorders. Psychiatrist Dr. Georgia Edes joins us for a discussion of major themes of her new book Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind. In this conversation we cover: why Dr. Edes wanted to write this bookthe underlying evidence to suggest that there is li...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Female involvement with the criminal justice system can prompt significant internal dissonance as well as challenge conceptualizations around female violence, motherhood, mental illness etc. Forensic psychotherapist Anna Motz joins us for a fascinating discussion of her book “If Love Could Kill: The Myths & Truths of Women Who Commit Violence”. In this discussion we cover: why Anna wanted to write this book and the underlying messag...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Host note: folks, I invite you to pay very close attention to what Dr. Hollis has to say...could change your life.Jungian/Depth psychology provides a wonderful framework for exploring questions related to meaning and the self that can at time fall outside of boundaries of what is typically explored in cognitive behavioural therapy. Esteemed author and Jungian analyst Dr. James Hollis joins us for an in-depth discussion of core themes explored in his...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Existential boredom is a challenge for many that can lead to a pathological engagement with shallow amusements (which may only deepen the despair and lead to more boredom). Dr. Kevin Gary joins us for a discussion of some of the core themes covered in his book Why Boredom Matters: Education, Leisure, and the Quest for a Meaningful Life. In this discussion we cover: why Dr. Gary wanted to write this book situational vs. existential bo...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Understanding the evolutionary significance of depression can quite helpful in its conceptualization and treatment. Founder in the field of evolutionary medicine, Dr. Randy Nesse, joins us for an encore discussion in which we consider how striving, motivation and desire for control can play into the evolution of depressive symptoms. In this conversation we cover: why failure to give up an unachievable goal may be a central cause of some forms ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!For many mental health clinicians, crafting resilience is an afterthought to managing the day-to-day demands of their professional life. Psychologist, consultant & author, Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier, joins us to discuss some of the themes explored in her new book: The Resilience Plan: A Strategic Approach to Optimizing Your Work Performance and Mental Health.the ethos behind the Resilience Plan what is burnout and what makes someone vulnera...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Music is an under-explored tool with respect to the provision of psychotherapy as well as the crafting of peak experiences. Clinical counsellor, performance coach and opera singer, Dr. Fiona McAndrew, joins us for an eclectic, wide-ranging discussion in which explore:Fiona's alternating journey between psychology and music a window into the psychological life of a top tier opera singermusic as tool to evoke and access emotions and spiritual exp...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Mental health professionals have increasingly been seeing clients seeking services related to anxiety and depression stemming from serious, negative changes that have been occurring in our climate. Psychologist and professor, Dr. Susan Clayton, who is one of the world's authorities on how the environment impacts upon psychological factors joins us for a discussion in which we cover: how the environment & climate impacts upon psychological w...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Shame is among the most powerful of human emotions and can drive a number of both functional and dysfunctional behaviours. Sheila Rubin, MA & Bret Lyon, Ph.D., join us for a comprehensive discussion of many of the themes in their new book Embracing Shame - How to Stop Resisting Shame & Turn it into a Powerful Ally. In this discussion we cover: why they wanted to write this booka theoretically driven and evolutionarily informed def...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Happiness is an elusive and frequently controversial topic of discussion. Dr. Jeff Perron joins us for an extensive discussion of some of the themes he is exploring in his new substack project: The Psychology of Happiness. In this discussion we cover:working within a workable & reasonable definition of happiness given the realities of the human condition the tension between schema-driven behaviours and values blending schema and ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!For many clinicians body dysmorphic disorder or BDD is shrouded in mystery and can be an intimidating and tricky presentation to try and conceptualize and treat. Physician, scientist, educator, and author, Dr. Katharine Phillips, who has spent her career caring for patients, mentoring/teaching, and conducting groundbreaking scientific research on BDD joins us for a discussion in which we cover: what BDD is and how it affects individuals...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Hello everyone - hope you are well! We just wanted to quickly let you know that we’ll be taking a scheduled break for the rest of the summer and will be back with new episodes in the early fall.It’s been a real joy recording and putting out the podcast - we’re so grateful to each and every guest for their contribution to the path that we’ve been on with the podcast which is basically trying to get just a little bit closer to coming to grips with the...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Strength in vulnerability combined with an internal sense of safety are among the most powerful psychological tools that one can curate to promote wellness and healthy boundaries. Four-time Olympian, speaker & author, Silken Laumann, joins us for a very special discussion where we cover: a brief overview of Silken's story and her rise to prominence nationally and internationallyfinding an "extra gear" with respect to performance and the ba...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Despite being among the most common of mental disorders that a clinician is likely to encounter, major depressive disorder presents both the client and therapist with a considerable amount of complexity and nuance to navigate with respect to conceptualization and treatment. Leading international expert in major depressive disorder, Dr. Keith Dobson, joins us for an in-depth exploration of depression where were cover: a brief overview of what&n...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Many clinicians pride themselves on practicing within an evidence based framework; however, within psychology the influence of pseudoscience and pop psychology has been at times problematic and even harmful. Psychologist, professor & author, Dr. Hupp joins us to discuss his recently edited book Investigating Pop Psychology: Pseudoscience, Fringe Science & Controversies. In this conversation we cover: why Dr. Hupp wanted to ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Dr. Daniel Z. Lieberman returns for an encore discussion on Thoughts on Record to discuss his most recent book Spellbound, which explores the untapped potential of our unconscious minds. In this conversation we cover:defining of our conscious and unconscious mindswhy Dr. Lieberman wanted to write this bookgetting to know what wants, needs & agendas our unconscious mind might haveunpacking the wisdom of fairy tales about the unconsciousshadow work: wha...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Despite anxiety in social situations being a fairly normative experience, we know that the symptoms and disability associated with social anxiety disorder can be very life-limiting when it comes to important aspects of life such as establishing a romantic relationship, professional advancement and overall quality of life. Internationally recognized expert on cognitive behavioral therapy for social anxiety disorder, Dr. Richard G. Heimberg, joins us ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Diagnostic frameworks like the DSM are often regarded as definitive, having an almost canonical-like quality. On the other hand, there are many in the field who have become increasingly critical of the DSM and its shortcomings. That said, the DSM has been quite helpful in a lot of ways with respect to organizing our thinking around mental illness as well as facilitating research. Professor Dr. Miri Forbes joins us for a discussion of som...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While many of us regularly use music to enhance our well-being or increase performance, we are often unaware of the underlying science around music as tool to improve our lives. Reverberation Studio Co-founders, Michael Hermann (CEO) and Anna Gabriel join us for a discussion of Reverberation Studio, an undertaking they have started with legendary recording artist, Peter Gabriel. Reverberation’s mission is to do everything better with music.&nb...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While OCD is a generally a very recognizable form of mental disorder, there are many nuances and complexities with respect to both its treatment and diagnosis. Psychologist, professor & author, Dr. Christine Purdon, joins us for a deep dive on OCD in which we cover: what OCD is and how it affects the individual and family members how is OCD usually conceptualized from a cognitive behavioural perspectivethe developmental experiences that mig...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Despite typically being scientifically-minded individuals, many clinicians have often wondered about aspects of the human experience that defy rationale explanation, but yet feel profoundly meaningful. Psychiatrist and author, Dr. Bernard Beitman, joins us for a discussion of many of the core themes in his book Meaningful Coincidences: How & Why Synchronicity and Serendipity Happen. In this conversation we cover: what has driven Dr. ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!At the moment there is no more talked about neurotransmitter than dopamine. Our collective obsession with dopamine has led to a huge amount of content generated around so-called “dopamine fasts”, how to leverage dopamine for motivation, worries about dopamine-driven addiction to devices, pornography, food etc. In addition, there is a tremendous amount of confusion and misunderstanding around what dopamine actually does within the brain, especially w...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Imposter syndrome combined with the somewhat curious & paradoxical phenomenon of over-identification with being a clinician is a familiar combination for many psychotherapists. Drs. Melissa Tiessen & Karen Dyck of the Intentional Therapist join us for a discussion of these important barriers to clinician well-being. In this conversation we cover: imposter syndrome & ill-suited syndromethe rigours of the profession vs. t...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Given that mental health treatment outcomes have not improved dramatically over time despite a wealth of research, novel psychotherapies and pharmaceutical compounds, it is important that new theories around mental disorders continue to be identified and explored. Harvard psychiatrist & researcher, Dr. Chris Palmer, joins us for a discussion of some of the core themes in his new book Brain Energy, which paints the picture of a potential “unifyi...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Evidence-based, psychological models & treatments for chronic pain are an exciting development in the understanding and management of non-structural chronic pain. Director of the documentary This Might Hurt, Kent Bassett, and Dr. Lilia (Lily) Graue join us for a discussion of the psychological treatment of chronic pain. In this episode we cover: an overview of This Might Hurt and why Kent wanted to make this documentary, including his perso...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Psychological suffering appears to be greatly facilitated by unfavourable comparisons that we make between ourselves and others in many domains of life. However, there are surprising dynamics (and even upsides) to these comparisons or modelling depending on the context. Entrepreneur & author, Mr. Luke Burgis, joins us for a discussion of the themes in his widely acclaimed book Wanting - The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life. In this...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Effective coping almost always hinges on an accurate appraisal of the stressful event that is being navigated, particularly with respect to what can be controlled versus not. In this 3rd annual Fireside Chat, the host of Thoughts on Record, Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych, shares some observations on the relationship between truth, control & coping and why it is often so hard to see things as they are (and not as we wish them to be) and how this can at times ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) can at times be difficult to differentiate from the anxious distress that can accompany depression, health anxiety, some presentations of OCD and even social anxiety. As well GAD, is often treated as a “catch-all” diagnosis that is applied to any client expressing distress. One of Canada's leading voices in the understanding and treatment of GAD, Dr. Melisa Robichaud joins us for an extensive discussion of GAD with...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!As is the case in many areas of life, for those who are perfectionistic, sex and sexual expression can be areas where emotional over-control & cognitive/behavioural inflexibility can impair pleasure, erode intimacy and create anxiety. International trainer, educator, couples and sex therapist & author, Dr. Tom Murray joins us for a discussion of core themes of his new book Making Nice With Naughty: An Intimacy Guide for the Rule Following, O...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Music has a unique ability to evoke emotion and articulate a feeling or sentiment where words can fail. Moreover, much like a romantic attachment, many of us form an intense connection to a specific song, genre or band but are never really sure why or where our specific attraction or pull comes from. Professor, author, producer (Barenaked Ladies) & audio engineer (Prince), Dr. Susan Rogers, joins us for a discussion of some of the core themes in...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!In a world in which we are increasingly wary of quick dopamine "hits" that frequently lead to feelings of emptiness, meaninglessness & dissatisfaction, it has become unclear how one could or should relate to joyful obsessions that reflect a fuller expression of the self, that could hold great personal meaning. Author, Tabitha Carvan, joins us for a discussion of her new book "This Book is Not About Benedict Cumberbatch" in which she explores the...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) & borderline personality disorder (BPD) are often confused and sometimes used interchangeably when, in fact, they are separate diagnoses with distinct underlying core etiology and symptomatology. Clinical Psychologist & Professor, Dr. Julian Ford, joins us for a conversation around defining & differentiating CPTSD & BPD. In this conversation we cover:the adequacy of current conceptualiza...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy is among the most effective, empirically supported treatments for posttrauamtic stress disorder. Importantly, there is a growing literature around the neuroscience of PE which has important implications for the delivery of PE. Drs. Sheila Rauch & Carmen McLean, join us for a review of some of the core themes in their book Retraining the Brain: Applied Neuroscience in Exposure Therapy for PTSD. In this ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Many of those who work in mental health services are personally connected to challenges related to mental health and many have been clients of mental health services. OICBT clinical psychologist Dr. Stacey Kosmerly joins us for a discussion of the the very important topic of mental health service providers seeking out mental health services themselves. In this conversation we cover: the gift of personal development that can often come wi...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Host note: Just a quick note that we'll be taking a breather until the fall to enjoy the rest of the short Canadian summer. Have comments or feedback? You can reach the show at oicbtpodcast@gmail.com. Finding the show adds value for you? A rating (and especially review) on Apple podcasts would be greatly appreciated (and, we really like to hear how the content is landing for you, helping you in your practice, life etc). Tak...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Death & dying are topics that clinicians frequently tackle both directly (as manifested around a fear of death), indirectly (through discussion of questions of meaning, managing pulls towards nihilism) and process-wise, through helping clients manage grief around the loss of a loved one or to process/manage their own impending death. Medical Anthropologist & podcaster, Dr. Renske Visser, joins us for a discussion of the topics of death &...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Investing and management of finances is often a source of considerable distress for many individuals. Investor, CIO & author, Scott Nations, joins us for a discussion of some of the core themes discussed in his new book, The Anxious Investor. In this conversation we cover: why Scott wrote The Anxious Investorthe evolutionary basis of investing behavior loss aversion as a central driver of irrational behavior in the contex...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Assessing & treating adult ADHD can be both very challenging as well as highly rewarding for client and clinician alike. Professor, psychiatrist & author, Dr. Sandra Kooij joins us for an in-depth discussion of the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD. In this discussion we cover: description of the main symptom clusters of adult ADHD (attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity) and how risk stratifies by various demographic f...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The past 2 years appear to have precipitated an unprecedented rise in the dissemination and propagation of misinformation and conspiracy theories, leading to considerable distress and uncertainty around consumers of traditional media platforms as well as social media. Psychiatrist and professor, Dr. Joe Pierre, joins us for an extensive discussion of conspiracy theories in which we cover: Dr. Pierre's thoughts on the nature & severity of challeng...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Engaging in regular exercise is a frequent recommendation of mental health clinicians as a way to address symptoms of anxiety & depression; however, despite clients almost universally voicing a strong belief in the benefit of exercise, it is often challenging for clients (and let's be honest, clinicians) to implement. Professor, neuroscientist and author, Dr. Jennifer Heisz joins us for a discussion of themes contained in her new book "Move the ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While at times a difficult topic to broach, men's mental health reflects an important area of both clinical and research interest. Moreover, despite the strong emotions that can be evoked by this subject, it is an issue which must be successfully integrated into the current discussion around mental health and wellbeing. In this wide ranging discussion, professor, author and documentary producer, Dr. Rob Whitley and men's mental health advocate...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Unfortunately, many mental health clinicians will experience a client’s suicide in the course of their career. The loss of a client to suicide often reflects a life changing experience which can require considerable processing to reconcile and reach some kind of understanding. In parallel, risk assessment can reflect a major source of distress, not only for clinician trainees but likewise for seasoned clinicians. Clinical psycholog...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Jungian/Depth psychology provides a wonderful framework for exploring questions related to meaning and the self that can at time fall outside of boundaries of what is typically explored in cognitive behavioural therapy. However, each perspective can offer tools and insights which may enrich the application of the other. Dr. Sean Fitzpatrick, psychotherapist, author and executive director of The Jung Center in Houston, Texas joins us for a conv...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Following registration as an autonomous professional, a psychotherapist could potentially go decades providing service to clients in the privacy of their office without another professional ever directly evaluating their work. Clinical psychologist, researcher and consultant, Dr. Daryl Chow, joins us for an important discussion around clinician perceptions of competency and the promise of deliberate practice for not only improving clinical outcomes, but a...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Chronic pain is emerging as one the most misunderstood aspects of the human experience. Owing to this misunderstanding, there is often needless suffering as a function of many clients and clinicians not understanding the central role psychological processes can play in the experience of many types of chronic pain. Clinical psychologist and researcher, Dr. Yoni Ashar, joins us for a fascinating discussion focused on understanding chronic pain f...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The interface between nutrition and mental health is a fascinating area of study that is of great interest to both mental health clinicians & clients alike; however, it can be at times difficult to find coherent messaging and/or data-driven information as it relates to the link between diet and psychological well-being. Uma Naidoo, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist, professional chef, and nutrition specialist joins us for a wide-ranging discuss...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Owing to a rapidly changing world, many clinicians understandably feel it is increasingly difficult to keep track of (let alone integrate) considerations around systems level challenges (e.g., social media, political polarization, housing shortage, monetary policy etc.) that may be germane to their day-to-day work with clients. In this conversation, Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych and Dr. Jeff Perron. C.Psych, MBA, share some of their thoughts on what they ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While a number of empirically supported, disorder-specific treatment protocols exist, it is frequently the experience of clinicians that clients present with co-morbid symptoms - that is, symptoms of a number of mental disorders at the same time. This can present challenges around treating concurrent symptoms and/or what to prioritize in treatment. Dr. Kristen Ellard, Clinical Psychologist, Professor & co-developer/co-author of the Unified...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Rumination in the context of OCD, anxiety & depression is often conceptualized as an automatic & intrusive psychological experience for which there is little relief beyond distraction, mindfulness etc. Dr. Michael Greenberg, clinical psychologist and Director of OCD Associates, has re-framed rumination as a compulsion which is amenable to treatment via a number of specific techniques. In this conversation we cover:how Dr. Greenberg's c...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While low mood & sadness are very frequently adaptive responses to life's challenges, there are times where this normally adaptive mechanism is applied for too long, at the wrong time, or at the wrong intensity in the form of major depressive disorder. In our 2nd annual Fireside Chat geared for mental health clinicians and consumers alike, host of Thoughts on Record, Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych provides an in-depth overview of depression from a vari...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Clinical presentations characterized by "overcontrol" of emotions (e.g., OCPD, chronic depression, eating disorders) can present a very unique set of challenges & opportunities within the therapeutic setting. Psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer, Hope Arnold, LCSW, MA, joins us for a discussion of the promise of Radically Open Dialetcial Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) for assisting these clients. In this discussion we cover:a overview of RO ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Clients with both an intellectual disability and mental health diagnosis are among the most vulnerable members of our society; however, these clients often face significant barriers with respect to accessing services for a number of complex reasons. Dr. Philip Grandia, C. Psych joins us for an in-depth discussion of working with clients with an intellectual disability in a mental health context. In this episode we cover: a general overvi...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Conversations around the conceptualization, development & implementation of diagnostic frameworks around mental illness often generate more questions than answers, but are endlessly fascinating in their ability to pull on a number of diverse & interesting threads of inquiry. Clinical psychologist, professor & former president of the Canadian Association for Cognitive & Behavioural Therapies (CACBT), Dr. Andrea Ashbaugh, C.Psych retur...

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Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While most psychotherapists identify with one predominant theoretical orientation, in practice it is common for clinicians to adopt an "eclectic" approach that aligns with the varied lens/interests a clinician might hold as well as to meet the varied needs of clients. Consultant, coach, author and podcast host, Imi Lo, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly for a very wide-ranging discussion of a variety of topics related to psychotherapy including: ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Dreams have long been a source of fascination, mystery & intrigue, yet there is now an abundance of scientific evidence to shed light on the origins, nature, and purpose of this captivating aspect of the human experience. Sleep neuroscientist Dr. Sidarta Ribeiro, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for an in-depth consideration of many of the themes explored in his book The Oracle of Night: The History & Science of Dreaming. In this dis...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While many parenting books and websites emphasize the critical role of the parent in influencing a child's behaviour, it is frequently overlooked that all children possess a genetically driven temperament which exerts a powerful influence not only on the child's behaviour, but on the behaviour of their parents. Dr. Danielle Dick, joins us for a discussion of some of the core ideas contained in her new book The Child Code: Understanding Your Child's ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of psychotherapists were forced to migrate their practice to teletherapy or secure video. While many have embraced this new mode of practice and have even found enhancements to their delivery of therapy, others are eager to return to the office or adopt a hybrid model. Dr. Hannah Zeavin, author of the The Distance Cure: A History Teletherapy, joins us for a conversation around the history of...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While trauma perpetuated by traumatic loss or imminent threat to one’s life is familiar and salient to most psychotherapists, the pervasiveness & severity of trauma precipitated by "moral injury" experienced during and/or after a trauma is frequently underestimated and overlooked as a factor that can exacerbate and/or maintain PTSD. Internationally recognized expert in PTSD, psychologist, researcher & author, Dr. Brett Litz, joins us for an ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While self-care is widely acknowledged as being critical to effective and sustainable engagement in the provision of mental health services, it is an area of focus that is frequently neglected by mental health professionals for a variety of complex reasons. Co-founders of the website Intentional Therapist, Drs. Karen Dyck & Melissa Tieseen, return to Thoughts on Record to discuss workplace hazards that mental health professionals must navigate.&...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!In many contexts - both in-person and online - it can often feel like reasonable behaviour, the ability to constructively disagree, and basic kindness are in short supply. Award-winning science journalist and author, Melissa Wenner Moyer, joins us to discuss some of the themes in her new book How to Raise Kids Who Aren't Assholes. In this discussion we cover:a consideration of the evidence that parenting is failing children and creating an inc...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Hello everyone - hope you are well! We just wanted to quickly let you know that we’ll be taking a scheduled break for the rest of the summer and will be back with new episodes in the fall - we’ve got lots of great guests lined up and we’re really looking forward to those conversations! Just as a quick reflection, it’s been such a joy recording and putting out the podcast - we’re so grateful to each and every guest for their contribution to the...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Finland is consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world by the United Nations. Author & journalist, Katja Pantzar, who has written extensively about the potential wellness promoting aspects of the Finnish ethos in The Finnish Way: Finding Courage, Wellness and Happiness Through the Power of Sisu (as well as her upcoming book Everyday Sisu: Tapping into Finnish Fortitude for a Happier, More Resilient Life) joins us for a disc...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While we typically take constructing and making sense of our internal and external world for granted, the brain employs a sophisticated mapping system to help construct, organize & navigate a functional and workable reality. Author and neuroscientist, Dr. Rebecca Schwarzlose, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for an in-depth discussion of some of the core themes in her new book Brainscapes: The Warped, Wondrous Maps Written in Your Brain - And ...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Once considered a fringe topic, aliens and the possibility of alien encounters are now the subject of considerable mainstream media attention. Pulitzer Prize winning journalist & author, Ralph Blumenthal, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for a discussion of his new book The Believer: Alien Encounters, Hard Science, and the Passion of John Mack. In this discussion they cover: how Ralph became interested in the area of UA...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Accurately mapping the "truth" of one's life is essential to crafting effective coping from a variety of perspectives. Renowned psychotherapist & author, Jon Frederickson, MSW, joins us for an in-depth discussion around some of the core themes of his book The Lies We Tell Ourselves, as well as a broader discussion of the therapy process in general. In this discussion we cover: Jon's theoretical orientation/basic framework for u...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Anxiety is a normal and necessary component of the human experience; however, under some circumstances normal psychological processes related to anxiety can unwittingly become entrenched in "habit loops" that can keep an individual stuck. New York Times best-selling author, neuroscientist, addiction psychiatrist, and thought leader in the field of habit change, Dr. Jud Brewer, joins us for a fascinating discussion of his novel model of anxiety as de...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!It is well-known that creative, meaningful undertakings can provide a powerful pathway to healing following a traumatic experience. Internationally renowned aquascaper, author, YouTube creator and aquarium plant expert, George Farmer, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for a wide-ranging discussion around how he found his healing from childhood and military trauma through his passion for aquascaping. In this discussion they cover: a brie...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!For many parents, cultivating a secure and nurturing attachment with their children is among their highest parenting priorities. However, establishing, maintaining and fostering this attachment can be a challenge when environmental conditions are poor and/or when the parent's resources are negatively impacted by stressors, illness or other demands. OICBT Clinical psychologist, Dr. Jennifer Karp, C.Psych, joins us for an in-depth discussion of...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The beliefs held around emotions can lead individuals to resist and deny their internal experience. This can have many potential downstream implications for being able to cope effectively, being properly attuned to one’s needs, and remaining effective in the face of difficult interpersonal situations. Former president of the Canadian Association for Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, Dr. Andrea Ashbaugh, C.Psych joins us for a discussion a...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While "body and mind" have at times been regarded as separate entities, it is now abundantly clear that the brain & body are continuous elements of a massively interconnected system. Preeminent professor, researcher & lecturer in the field of behavioural neuroscience, Dr. Hymie Anisman, joins Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for a wide-ranging and discussion of: how stress can impact upon almost any aspect of healththe mechanisms by which...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Music has a unique ability to evoke emotion, enhance motivation and in some cases speak without saying a word. For many, music can have a profound impact on mood and performance. Award winning and critically acclaimed composer, John Lunn, (Downton Abbey, The Last Kingdom, The White Queen, The White Princess, Shetland) joins us for a wide ranging conversation around:John's background & training and how he broke into the music businesswhy hu...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Trauma reflects among the most dynamic and profound of human experiences and can present significant challenges for the mental health clinician and consumer alike; however, effective, time-limited & evidence-based treatments are available. Experienced trauma clinician, Dr. Michele Todd, C. Psych joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C. Psych for an extensive discussion of the conceptualization and treatment of trauma from a CBT lens. In this discussi...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Fostering a healthy workplace where difficult issues are discussed openly & effectively is a huge challenge for any leader. Trier Bryant & Kim Scott, co-founders of Just Work LLC join us for a discussion around: typical stressors experienced by leadershelping leaders understand their own bias & how bias can be identified & discussed effectively, openly & safelyembracing discomfort in the service of difficult, but necessary c...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The formation & maintenance of friendships as well as the emotional turmoil related to the rupture of friendships are common sources of clinical discussion in psychotherapy. Award-winning science journalist, author and speaker Lydia Denworth joins us for a discussion of major themes explored in her latest book Friendship: The Evolution, Biology, and Extraordinary Power of Life’s Fundamental Bond. In this discussion we cover: the defin...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The emotional perils of dating - in particular online dating - frequently rank near the top of psychosocial stressors that are discussed in psychotherapy. Award-winning magazine writer, Fortune contributor, and author of Date-onomics: How Dating Became a Lopsided Numbers Game, Jon Birger, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for a discussion of his new book Make Your Move: The New Science of Dating and Why Women Are in Charge. In this discussion...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!While we all have a voice in our head, we may not often stop to consider the implications - both positive and negative - of these ongoing conversations with ourselves. Psychologist and author of the book Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why it Matters & How to Harness It, Dr. Ethan Kross, joins us for an illuminating discussion around: the nature and function of our inner voicehow and when this inner voice can become negative/dysfunct...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Combining MDMA with commonly employed, evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapies for trauma is an area of increasing clinical investigation. Founder of Remedy and clinical investigator Dr. Anne Wagner, C.Psych, joins us for a discussion of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy including a MAPS funded trial of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD + MDMA that she is currently leading. In this discussion we cover: &nbsp...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Ongoing engagement in values-driven activities through personal projects reflects among the most powerful ways to foster a sense of meaning, achievement and confidence as well as ward off low motivation, lethargy and low mood. Graeme Jenvey, owner of the YouTube channel Woodness Goodness which chronicles the technical and psychological journey around many of Graeme's ongoing projects, joins host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for an epic chat in whic...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Tolerating uncertainty, unpredictability and other forms of psychological discomfort is frequently a requirement for being able to pursue longer-term, values driven goals and activities - especially in the context of challenges related to mental health. Freelance science journalist & author of the Los Angeles Times bestseller and one of NPR's Best Books of the Year for 2020, The Wax Pack, Brad Balukjian, Ph.D., joins host Dr. Pete Ke...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Treatment resistance/non-response in psychotherapy is a major contributor of disability and loss of functioning among clients as well as a considerable source of burnout in mental health clinicians. Renowned psychiatrist and psychotherapist Dr. Allan Abbass joins us for a discussion of treatment resistance/non-response in psychotherapy which includes: how treatment resistance is definedthe prevalence of treatment resistance in psychothera...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Dreams have long been a source of fascination, mystery & intrigue, yet there is now an abundance of scientific evidence to shed light on the origins, nature, and purpose of this captivating aspect of the human experience. Leading sleep & dream scientists Drs. Antonio Zadra & Robert Stickgold join host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for an in-depth consideration of many of the themes explored in their new book When Brains Dream. In this di...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!It is no secret that working within the mental health care system while rewarding, can at times present significant challenges with respect to the provision of optimum client care as well as the well-being of mental health clinicians themselves. In this wide-ranging discussion, Dr. Connie Dalton, C.Psych, Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy joins host & colleague Dr. Pete Kelly, C. Psych t...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The emergence and research of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy has yielded a number of insights with respect to potential mechanisms of change in psychotherapy. The experience of "love" (including perceiving the love of others, self-love or even being love) has been identified as a particularly powerful element in some forms of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. In this episode, clinical psychologist, research scientist and author Dr....

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!"Success" is something that many strive for, but a deeper consideration of success yields a number of interesting conundrums and considerations around what success actually means and how one might actually go about achieving it. Best selling author, management consultant and entrepreneur Mr. Richard Koch sits down with host Dr. Pete Kelly, C.Psych for a discussion around: caveats and conundrums around defining "success"signs of healthy vs. unhe...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!The “classical” model of emotions which emphasizes the innate, universal (and even primitive) nature of emotions has been the basis for psychoeducation provided by clinicians to clients about the nature of their emotional experiences. However, there is a very large body of evidence to suggest that emotions are, in fact, constructed concepts that are “wired-in” by culture and reflect consensus-based social realism rather than innate processes. Acclaimed au...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!There has recently been a tremendous increase in awareness and acknowledgment of the systemic oppression and challenges faced by racialized populations not only generally, but in the context of mental health. Clinical psychologists Drs. Mandisa Peterson & Jude Mary Cénat join host Dr. Pete Kelly for a very important discussion around: the prevalence and nature of mental health challenges among racialized populationsthe importan...

Comments or feedback? Send us a text!Eating disorders are among the most serious of mental health challenges, and yet are mired in stereotypes, stigma and misunderstanding. Clinical Psychologist Dr. Meagan Gallagher joins us for an in-depth discussion of eating disorders which covers: How Dr. Gallagher became interested in treating eating disorders from a personal and professional perspectiveAn in-depth clinical consideration of the most common eating disorders in adultsConceptua...