NFCC's Guide Through the Seasons of Mental Wellness

Nick Finnegan Counseling Center

Together, we navigate the development of self, partnerships, parenting, and the general network of connections you build across a lifetime. As a non-profit counseling center, Nick Finnegan Counseling Center (NFCC), is always trying to find ways to support the greater community. Through conversations exploring the family life cycle, as well as common individual and relational concerns, we hope to expand access to mental health resources. NFCC exists to make mental health care affordable and accessible, and this is just one of the routes to serve our mission. We hope that through this podcast you're inspired to connect with others, and that you feel supported along your mental wellness journey. Thank you for listening! read less
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Healing Through Hardships
May 19 2023
Healing Through Hardships
Depending upon your own belief system, the word hardship can have lots of different meanings. For some, a hardship can be the loss of a job, facing financial setbacks, infidelity, divorce… the list goes on and on. In this episode, we talk to a spiritual coach about whether or not it’s possible to be prepared for when those things happen and honestly, what the term 'healing', even means. Get your notepads out, there is a lot to take in!About our GuestAlison Young is a Spiritual Coach with a diverse career path centered around helping others. She's served as the Director of Development at an exponentially growing nonprofit, a Pastor for rural, LGBTQ+, and inner city congregations, a Graduate Research Assistant for socio-political and educational research initiatives, and a Chaplain in the ICU and ER units of a Children’s hospital (and that's not all!)Alison was ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church in 2012, graduated from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University with a Masters in Divinity in 2010, and graduated from Texas A&M University in 2003 with a B.S. in Political Science. While her extensive career path is impressive, Alison's personal life helped inform the part of her journey where she walks alongside her clients, one-on-one as a Spiritual Coach and what that led her to our podcast. If you want more from Alison (and we’re sure you will) connect with her by visiting her website: https://www.alisonyoung.co/Meet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSWAnna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups. Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks. Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please:• share it with someone you know• post about it on social media• and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.orgExtra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts• our production team at 3Wire Creative• our editor, Jacel Dickson • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all!Until next time...

Episodes

Healing Through Hardships
May 19 2023
Healing Through Hardships
Depending upon your own belief system, the word hardship can have lots of different meanings. For some, a hardship can be the loss of a job, facing financial setbacks, infidelity, divorce… the list goes on and on. In this episode, we talk to a spiritual coach about whether or not it’s possible to be prepared for when those things happen and honestly, what the term 'healing', even means. Get your notepads out, there is a lot to take in!About our GuestAlison Young is a Spiritual Coach with a diverse career path centered around helping others. She's served as the Director of Development at an exponentially growing nonprofit, a Pastor for rural, LGBTQ+, and inner city congregations, a Graduate Research Assistant for socio-political and educational research initiatives, and a Chaplain in the ICU and ER units of a Children’s hospital (and that's not all!)Alison was ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church in 2012, graduated from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University with a Masters in Divinity in 2010, and graduated from Texas A&M University in 2003 with a B.S. in Political Science. While her extensive career path is impressive, Alison's personal life helped inform the part of her journey where she walks alongside her clients, one-on-one as a Spiritual Coach and what that led her to our podcast. If you want more from Alison (and we’re sure you will) connect with her by visiting her website: https://www.alisonyoung.co/Meet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSWAnna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups. Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks. Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please:• share it with someone you know• post about it on social media• and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.orgExtra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts• our production team at 3Wire Creative• our editor, Jacel Dickson • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all!Until next time...
Healing From a Cancer Diagnosis
May 12 2023
Healing From a Cancer Diagnosis
Season 3 is all about healing... In this episode, we discuss the very emotional journey of learning that you have cancer, and how to heal your heart and mind while your body is fighting for survival.About our GuestClorena Myles is a wife, mom of three, teacher, Yogi and cancer survivor. After her breast cancer diagnosis, she decided to share her journey with the World. She remains extremely transparent about the ups and downs and the mental trauma of living with cancer.Clorena has used the few years since her diagnosis to redefine the meaning of life; learning to be present and spending time making memories with her family. Now her focus is on sharing the highs of life after cancer.*Spoiler alert* she’s also an avid thrifter. Follow her on Instagram @mama_likes_adealMeet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSWAnna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups. Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks. Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please:• share it with someone you know• post about it on social media• and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel orvisit our website at FinneganCounseling.orgExtra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts• our production team at 3Wire Creative• our editor, Jacel Dickson • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all!Until next time...
Healing Through Grief
May 5 2023
Healing Through Grief
Season 3 is all about healing... In this episode, we discuss the different ways we experience grief and loss; not just through death but in changes in our day to day routine. We also discuss healthy coping mechanisms that people can lean into as they grieve.About our Guest Amy Gready is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Houston, Texas where she was born and raised. Amy earned a master’s degree in Communications from Texas State University as well as a master’s degree in Education/Counseling from Our Lady of the Lake University. After working in education for 24 years; in more roles than I can count, Amy landed here at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center! Now as a full-time individual therapist, Amy has been focusing on assisting clients with stress-management, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ and gender-questioning, grief, emotional and behavioral concerns, and discovering new or potential career paths. Amy utilizes cognitive – behavioral therapy (CBT) as the foundation to supporting her clients, combined with various counseling ideologies and tools beneficial to their success.  Meet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSW Anna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC).  She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups.  Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks.  Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please: • share it with someone you know • post about it on social media • and leave a rating or review  To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.org Extra special thanks the people who made this project possible:  • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts • our production team at 3Wire Creative • our editor, Jacel Dickson  • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX.  Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all! Until next time...
THROWBACK (Season 1): Coping with Infertility
Apr 27 2023
THROWBACK (Season 1): Coping with Infertility
In honor of National Infertility Week, April 23-29, 2023, we decided to throw back to our first episode on infertility and loss from 2021. We hope you'll take a moment to listen to this episode and compare it to this season's episode with Morgan Welch, to see just how different but the same, these journeys can be. A journey that involves physical, emotional and financial stress, while straining relationships. In this episode, we discuss the mental toll, heartbreak, grief, and thankfully, hope - with FabFertility's very own, Blair Nelson.About Blair Nelson: Blair Nelson is an infertility warrior who began her journey in 2018 after being told IVF was the only way to grow her family due to an inherited genetic factor her husband, Will, was born with. After their second embryo transfer from their first round of IVF treatment, Blair suffered a heartbreaking miscarriage that redefined her life. Ever since then, she has made it her mission to bring facts, tips, inspiration and most importantly a voice to the topic of infertility. She found refuge in her difficult times online among women who have had similar experiences, and she wants to return the favor. Her Instagram account, Fab Fertility, has grown into a brand, podcast and blog. She also co-founded Fertility Rally in 2020, an event and membership platform to support and educate anyone building their modern family. After five rounds of IVF, countless shots and procedures, Blair and Will welcomed a baby girl in May of 2021.Related Resources: FabFertilityFertility RallyCoFertilityThe National Infertility AssociationA special thanks to our team:Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerOs Galindo, Senior Producer & EngineerYue Nakayama, Audio EngineerJacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic DesignerAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omensonwith music by Jim RomanThanks for listening!
Healing From Infertility & Pregnancy Loss
Apr 21 2023
Healing From Infertility & Pregnancy Loss
Season 3 is all about healing... In this episode, we discuss the different kinds of emotional journeys to parenthood, through infertility. About our Guest Morgan Welch is an IVF warrior with a passion for helping others navigate the emotional, personal and practical realities of trying to conceive a child. Over the course of five years, Morgan endured over a dozen fertility treatments, suffered from three miscarriages and by the grace of God delivered twin boys on Christmas Day in 2021.   She's tried everything under the sun to make her dreams of motherhood possible. From beet juice to acupuncture, holistic and functional medicine approaches to invasive and controversial IVF protocols. You name it, she probably tried.   Now it's her mission to help others navigate the tumultuous road of infertility and pregnancy loss. She wants others to feel supported, seen and heard, and believes that by sharing her story, others might feel less alone during this isolating journey. Meet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSW Anna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups.  Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks.  Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please: • share it with someone you know • post about it on social media • and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.org Extra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts • our production team at 3Wire Creative • our editor, Jacel Dickson • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all! Until next time...
Healing Through a Child's Mental Health Diagnosis
Apr 14 2023
Healing Through a Child's Mental Health Diagnosis
Season 3 is all about healing... In this episode, we talk to parents about what happens after their child is assessed and receives a mental health diagnosis (at any age). About our GuestAmanda Armbruster is a Licensed Professional Counselor and the Founder of Take a Break Tots. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master’s of Education in Counseling from the University of Houston. For the last decade, Amanda has worked with young children and their families as a teacher, graduate student, LPC and now in her own home as a wife and mom of two. Amanda started Take a Break Tots to bring information about child development, behavior, discipline, and social-emotional intervention from the clinical world to the average household and classroom.Learn more about Take a Break Tots here.Meet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSWAnna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups. Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks. Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please:• share it with someone you know• post about it on social media• and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.orgExtra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts• Our production team at 3Wire Creative• Our editor, Jacel Dickson • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all!Until next time...
Healing from Intergenerational Trauma
Apr 7 2023
Healing from Intergenerational Trauma
Season 3 is all about healing... In this episode, we talk about trauma inherited from family members and how we can move forward and leave pain and baggage that isn’t ours to carry, behind.About our GuestDamilola Adesina, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Ireti Counseling and Wellness. Dami’s passion is helping others see that their situation is not hopeless. She believes that when individuals are willing to put in the work, true and transformative change can occur in their personal life. Connect with Dami at https://www.ireticounseling.com/Take the challenge!Email Dami at hello@etcounseling.com and let her know you listened to this episode. She’ll reply with a family genogram template.Here’s the book Dami would read again (and again): Mother Hunger by Kelly McDanielMeet our Host, Anna Crain, LMSWAnna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups. Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks. Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please:• share it with someone you know•post about it on social media•and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.org Extra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts• Our production team at 3Wire Creative• Our editor, Jacel Dickson •and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all!Until next time...
Healing From Mistrust in a Relationship
Mar 31 2023
Healing From Mistrust in a Relationship
Welcome to Season 3, where we talk about all things healing... In this episode, we talk about the importance of trust in relationships, what happens when it's not there and ways to rebuild it.About our GuestDr. Nick Hardy’s counseling experience spans more than 10 years; but it’s his own life experiences that informs his work as a counselor and relationship coach. Nick completed his Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Texas, Arlington and then moved to Houston, where he completed his Ph.D at the U of H. His deep understanding of how our hardships and fears can threaten to keep us from our potential is why he’s so good at helping his clients confront and understand those issues.Connect with Nick at https://www.nichardy.com/ Meet our New Host, Anna Crain, LMSWAnna Crain is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center's, Outreach Counselor. Anna holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She has worked in a variety of settings spending majority of her time serving as a non-profit administrator, school administrator and school social worker. She has had the opportunity to help clients work through several challenges such as anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, ASD, life-stressors and trauma both individually and through groups. Anna currently works with children, families and some young adults, through one-on-one counseling and also speaks to groups throughout the Houston area, through outreach talks. Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help us reach more listeners, please:• share it with someone you know• post about it on social media• and leave a rating or review To see what’s coming next, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @NickFinnCounsel or visit our website at FinneganCounseling.orgExtra special thanks the people who made this project possible: • Our wonderful Season 3 guest experts• our production team at 3Wire Creative• our editor, Jacel Dickson • and the amazing leadership team and supporters at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center in Houston, TX. Remember, new episodes drop each Friday! We can't wait for you to hear them all!Until next time...
BONUS: Traveling with an Anxious or Inflexible Child
Sep 30 2022
BONUS: Traveling with an Anxious or Inflexible Child
Traveling can be challenging for children and adults on the spectrum. 87% of parents with autistic children, do not currently take family vacations. Changes in routine, crowds, new sights and sounds can make experiences difficult for them and their families.We hope this episode, with Dawn Barclay, author of Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse, will encourage more travel opportunities for you and your family. About our GuestDawn Barclay is an award-winning author who has spent a career working in different aspects of the travel industry. After spending several years in sales and marketing, she branched out into travel trade reporting with senior or contributing editor positions at Travel Agent Magazine, Travel Life, Travel Market Report, and most recently, Insider Travel Report. She is a mother of two and resides in New York’s scenic Hudson Valley. Resources mentioned:Traveling Different (where to find Dawn’s book) http://www.dawnbarclayink.com/order.htmlCarol Gray Social Stories https://carolgraysocialstories.com/Magical Storybook Travels http://www.magicalstorybooktravels.com/Beaches Autism Friendly Resorts https://www.beaches.com/all-inclusive/autism-friendly/Dr. Tony Atwood, Autism Spectrum Disorder Expert https://tonyattwood.com.au/A special thanks to our teamHeather Timmis, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire CreativeAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis
Doctor-Patient Relationships with Dr. Lisa White Lapeze
Jun 9 2022
Doctor-Patient Relationships with Dr. Lisa White Lapeze
There are few relationships in our lives that require a greater level of intimacy and vulnerability than the doctor-patient relationship. As a patient, you are giving another person permission to assess your entire body inside and out, often before developing a personal connection to them. For some, disclosing our habits and care practices can be a scary endeavor that leads to avoiding doctors visits altogether. Finding a right fit for you or a family member involves more than just an internet search, you have consider many relationship dynamics including finding someone who is trustworthy and makes you feel comfortable. Today we’re going to talk about how to make the process of finding a great dynamic between you and your physician that will create a lasting and beneficial connections. Here to help us explore this topic is one of my absolute favorite physicians of all time, Dr. Lisa White-Lapeze.About our guestDr. White-Lapeze received her degree at the University of Texas in 2003. She then went on to earn her DO in 2008 at the University of North Texas Health Science Center and completed her residency in pediatrics at The Children’s Medical Center UT Southwestern, after which she worked in private practice from 2011 to 2013 at Texas Children’s Pediatrics. After becoming close to a fellow pediatrician who she soon learned grew up down the street from her, Dr. White-Lapeze and her former childhood neighbor Dr. Dehlavi-Ali opened their own practice in their home town of Katy, TX. Sprout Pediatrics has been a thriving and sought after practice in the Katy area for several years.ResourcesThe importance of the doctor-patient relationship articleHow to improve the doctor-patient relationship articleDan Siegel Clip on The Value of Doctors Expressing EmpathyDan Siegel’s Mindsight BookA special thanks to our teamTracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire CreativeAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis
Balancing Work and Home with Claire Holmes
Jun 2 2022
Balancing Work and Home with Claire Holmes
According to Gallup, the workforce has lost 2 million female employees over the course of the pandemic. While all people who work and take care of dependent family members at home, could use added support in the workplace, based on recent polls, working moms seem to be taking the brunt of the load during this shift. This has caused many women to leave their jobs to devote more time to their roles as caretakers. Research also shows that mother’s in are valuable because they bring skills in leadership and office dynamics that better the work environment. As the trend of caretakers, most notably, mothers, leaving the workforce has been noticed, many are stepping up to help employers develop skills to improve working conditions to keep these valuable employees. In our last episode, we explored employer and employee relationships and realized that this topic is so big it needed two parts! If you haven’t listened to episode 8 with NFCC’s Executive Director, Mary Elizabeth Hand, be sure to listen to that one too, as we’ll build upon that conversation and discuss more ways to improve interoffice dynamics and better support our most stretched employees with today’s guest, Claire Holmes. About our guestClaire Holmes is the founder of Mama Collaborative, which helps working moms learn how to set themselves up for success through digital courses, resources, tools and an encouraging online community. After graduating from the University of Georgia, Claire spent over a decade as a marketing consultant, project manager and training developer in the consulting, legal, retail and non-profit industries. Leveraging that and her personal experience as a full-time working mom of three, Claire's goal is to help moms move away from stress, overwhelm and anxiety to find satisfaction and purpose in life. ResourcesHow Companies Can Support Working Parents- Forbes ArticleCompanies that are doing it right articleArticle on the Value of Working Mothers as LeadersHR Best practices for working parentsA special thanks to our teamTracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire CreativeAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis
Communication in the Workplace with Mary Elizabeth Hand
May 26 2022
Communication in the Workplace with Mary Elizabeth Hand
Research has shown inter-office relationships with managers impacts self-confidence, self efficacy, and overall mental and physical health. Yet, many in management positions have little to no focused skills or incentive to practice building positive work dynamics. So, how do we help teams, no matter the size, move forward towards collaboration? We'll talk about how to develop the necessary skills needed to create an environment that supports everyone’s needs and strengths to create a stronger, more successful work environment in today's episode with Nick Finnegan Counseling Center’s Executive Director, Mary Elizabeth Hand.About our GuestMary Elizabeth Hand has served as NFCC’s Executive Director since 2015. In addition to managing the daily operations of the counseling center, she also oversees the event planning, grant writing, annual fund and donor relations. Before coming on board at NFCC as the Director of Development, she was a Child Life Specialist at Texas Children’s Hospital for five years. As a childhood friend of Nick Finnegan, Mary Elizabeth’s passion for NFCC’s mission grows every year, as she leads efforts to expand the counseling center’s reach in the community. Her desire to make high quality counseling accessible and affordable, while honoring Nick, inspires her work at the counseling center every day. Mary Elizabeth also makes work life balance a priority for her staff and herself. At home, she and her husband manage two full time careers, two young kids and two yellow labs!ResourcesA Great Podcast All About Work On Being a Better ManagerPodcast Episode on Understanding BurnoutOn Being a Better EmployeeBrene Brown Podcast Episodes on Management: https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-on-armored-versus-daring-leadership-part-1-of-2/https://brenebrown.com/collections/a-courageous-approach-to-feedback/A special thanks to our teamTracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire CreativeAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather Timmis
School Dynamics with Dr. Caroline Baizan
May 12 2022
School Dynamics with Dr. Caroline Baizan
In today's school system, the demands on parents and teachers are taxing and sometimes unforgiving. While there are more care takers involved in the village that helps rear a child, parents and teachers have the majority of the load, creating a very important partnership. Though they have similar goals, they often struggle to communicate and get on the same page. What can we do to support each other in feeling seen for the work each care taker has to bring out the best in our children and adolescents? To help us explore this topic, I have Dr. Caroline Baizan.About our GuestCaroline Baizan is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in children and young adults. She has a master’s degree in clinical psychology, a doctoral degree in counseling, and was recently re-certified as a licensed specialist in school psychology at Houston Baptist University. Dr. Baizan’s is passionate about supporting an individual’s journey to envision and achieve the best version of themselves. Over the last 15 years, she has worked with a diverse array of clients including individuals with autism, learning disabilities, mood, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as victims of trauma. Dr. Baizan has worked in non-profit clinics, hospitals, therapeutic education institutions, and public schools.ResourcesParent-Teacher Relationships in the ResearchTools for Navigating IssuesTexas Education Association ResourcesCommunity for Navigating Special Needs in the School SystemA special thanks to our teamTracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire CreativeAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!www.finnegancounseling.org
Co-Parenting & Blended Families with Donyé Smith
May 5 2022
Co-Parenting & Blended Families with Donyé Smith
While there are many myths around the harm of divorce and stepfamilies disrupting a child’s development, research has actually shown that a system of effective, communicative relationships can actually aid children in learning to navigate life in healthy ways. Communication and respect are key to this success. So, how do we create these systems and ways of functioning? How do we manage existing hurts and fears? Here to discuss this and much more is Donyé Smith, M.Ed., LPC Associate.About our GuestDonyé Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Baptist University and Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. Donyé has worked in residential, non-profit and private practice settings treating depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder and parenting. She works with adolescents and adults using multiple modalities to develop an individualized approach for clients and strives to provide a safe, non judgmental environment to explore their concerns and help them lead meaningful lives.A special thanks to our team:Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire CreativeAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!www.finnegancounseling.org
The Foundations of Parent-Child Relationships with Danielle Coleman
Apr 28 2022
The Foundations of Parent-Child Relationships with Danielle Coleman
How parents respond to their child lets them know how to navigate their surroundings and the people in them, safely. Parents are often on the receiving end of “expert advice”, and judgment, that often lends itself to confusion, stress, and anxiety. However, regardless of parenting choices, the research is clear, your relationship with your children is the foundation of everything.So, how can be authentic in our roles as parents? What makes and breaks these different types of relationships? And, how do we create a feeling of safety, acceptance, and growth in our children? Tune into this episode as we dive into these questions and more.About our guest:Danielle Coleman is a Certified Child Life Specialist at the Wonders & Worries Houston office. She has over 7 years of experience supporting children and families at Wonders & Worries and Texas Children’s Hospital, in the Outpatient Hematology Oncology Clinic. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas State University. Danielle and her husband have two beautiful children and their family can often be found enjoying the outdoors at the park or riding bikes. ResourcesThe Whole-Brain Child BookParent-Child Relationships Podcast EpisodeAttachment Theory in Parenting ArticleSecure Attachment ArticleRaising A Secure Child BookParenting from the Inside Out BookA special thanks to our teamTracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire Creative Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!finnegancounseling.org
The Ups and Downs of Partnerships with Dr. Laura Spiller
Apr 21 2022
The Ups and Downs of Partnerships with Dr. Laura Spiller
Relationships are often quick to become more work and less romance in modern society. In this episode, we explore both the theories and experience of couples therapy, as well as, general relationship struggles and tools for navigating them.About our guestDr. Laura Spiller is a clinical psychologist who owns Heights Couples Therapy and co-owns Wellness Collaborative in Houston, TX. She specializes in helping individuals and couples strengthen their relationships and connect deeper to those they care about. After studying at the University of Houston and the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, she earned her PhD in Psychology and went on to train other graduate students as a professor for 10 years before shifting to her private practice, full time. Dr. Spiller is also a certified practitioner and trainer for Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy; an attachment based and well researched model of therapy. As a couples therapist, she is inspired to guide couples to make their relationships a safe haven which they can navigate any storm. This comes from both her work and personal experience after walking beside her late husband during a 5 year battle with a rare stomach cancer. Dr. Spiller hopes to pass on the gift of making the most of the time couples have together to everyone she works with. ResourcesEmotionally Focused Couples TherapyGottman Relationship InstituteEFT Book for CouplesAttachment and Empathy BookA special thanks to our teamTracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire Creative Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!
What Do Healthy Friendships Look Like? with McKenzie Palmer
Apr 14 2022
What Do Healthy Friendships Look Like? with McKenzie Palmer
Friendships are highly valued in society and research has found that in youth, the human brain’s learning is almost solely done through social connection and face to face interaction, from infancy through early childhood. Developing peer relationships can be both fun and difficult, yet ultimately rewarding for all. They challenge us to be vulnerable, face painful rejection, and teach us the importance of discerning what we value, in order to choose healthy, successful peers. Many grapple with the idea of leaning on another person yet, it’s important that we learn it’s possible to experience trusting relationships early on. Having solid peer support systems feeds our feelings of self-worth and self-efficacy, and allows us to move through the world with a sense of safety. Many of us however, have real struggles with developing these long-term connections. Here to discuss why friendship is so important to overall wellness, how to take risks and choose healthy friendships, and how to help our children learn to do the same, is licensed professional counselor, McKenzie Palmer.About our GuestMcKenzie Palmer graduated from Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s of science in Psychology. Later, she obtained her master’s degree in professional counseling from the University of Houston. McKenzie primarily works with children and adolescents, ages 3-18, by using a collaborative approach and lots of play! McKenzie enjoys working with families to aid them in recognizing their own strengths as well as identifying areas of growth to promote positive change. McKenzie’s counseling experience includes helping clients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, divorce, parenting challenges and adoption-related concerns, among other specialties. She incorporates play therapy, art therapy and age-appropriate cognitive behavioral therapy throughout sessions to engage clients and best guide them to success. Additional Resources:Understanding AttachmentPositive Peer RelationshipsThe Value of Social Support A special thanks to our team:Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire Creative Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!To learn more about what we do at Nick Finnegan Counseling Center, visit our website at:https://finnegancounseling.org/
How the Pandemic Changed our Relationships with Heather Timmis
Apr 7 2022
How the Pandemic Changed our Relationships with Heather Timmis
Relationships are the cornerstone of human health. Research shows that when we experience consistent - quality relationships with others, we live longer, feel better and become more resilient to stress. However, when we don’t have access to these types of relationships and are unable to create new ones, the risks to our mental and physical health change astronomically. In fact, many studies have now confirmed that loss of social support and chronic loneliness are more disastrous to our health than smoking, obesity, or other measures of health risk. Putting these facts in the modern context of a global pandemic can be quite alarming. Never before have people experienced this level of isolation. Even as we come back together, many struggle to create new social connections due to the increased anxiety and decreased social skills created by this period of separation. So, what do we do? How do we help ourselves, our children, and our parents navigate social situations during periods of separation? Here to help us explore this timely conversation is NFCC’s Clinical Director, Heather Timmis. About our GuestHeather Timmis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor who works with families, couples and individuals ages 3 years and up. Heather holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Austin as well as a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. In addition to overseeing the clinical team at NFCC, she also supervises associate level counselors who are pursuing their license. Heather has many years of experience helping clients work through challenges such as trauma and anxiety with traditional talk therapy, play therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, also known as EMDR. She served as NFCC’s Lead Clinician before stepping into the role of Clinical Director in October of 2021.Episode Resources:1. The Impact of Social Isolation 2. Isolation and Mental Health 3. Tools for Addressing Isolation 4. Loneliness and Empathy A special thanks to our team:Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire Creative Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!Nick Finnegan Counseling Center finnegancounseling.org
Starting and Maintaining a Therapy Relationship with Audrey Omenson
Mar 31 2022
Starting and Maintaining a Therapy Relationship with Audrey Omenson
Choosing to divulge your most vulnerable parts to a complete stranger takes a lot of courage. It also takes a lot of willingness to be vulnerable with ourselves and be willing to hear and do hard things. It makes sense that in situation such as this, forming a trusting, safe connection with a therapist is paramount. In fact, research has proven time and time again that it is the MOST important factor in therapeutic success. While this season we focus on relationship dynamics in all forms, we’ll start with a truly unique relationship - the therapeutic relationship, or the therapeutic alliance as it is more professionally known. So, how do we find the right therapist? And, how do we make sure we feel safe and respected in this sensitive dynamic?Here to discuss this and more is Audrey Omenson, MA, LPC-S.About our guest:Audrey Omenson has worked as a licensed professional counselor in the Houston area since 2009. Currently she see clients in her private practice where her work is focused on supporting adults and teens ages 16 and up, who are looking to process major life transitions, address trauma, deal with burnout and boundary setting, increase self-awareness, and improve self-care practices. Audrey was also part of the NFCC team for 7 years, serving as a counselor and clinical director before stepping down to serve as a consultant in October of 2021.In addition to her several years of experience as a counselor, Audrey has also been on the client side of things and participated in therapy for herself at various points in her life.Learn more about Audrey by visiting her website: https://www.audreyomenson.com/A special thanks to our team:Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerJacel Dickson, Producer and EditorTheme music written and performed by Jim RomanAudio engineering courtesy of our podmasters at 3 Wire Creative Administrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Heather TimmisThanks for listening!
Trauma Can Happen in Your Faith
May 19 2021
Trauma Can Happen in Your Faith
Crises of faith can happen in response to grief and loss, but they can also often be the result of discrepancy between ones personal life and the doctrines of their faith. The way a spiritual community responds to and support members largely determines whether the faith community becomes a source of support and mental resilience or shame and mental trauma. In fact an emerging field in psychotherapy is Religious Trauma. Here to help us navigate this sometimes scary world of challenging faith communities, finding your own spiritual path, or improving your faith community from within is NFCC's Clinical Director, Audrey Omenson, MA, LPC-S.About Audrey:Audrey is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and the Clinical Director at the Nick Finnegan Counseling Center (NFCC). She oversees all of the clinical work done at NFCC, including the training and supervision of graduate practicum counselors and LPC-Associate counselors. She joined NFCC in 2014 but has worked with children, adolescents, adults and families in the mental health field since 2009. Her counseling experience includes work in outpatient clinics and schools, supporting clients challenged by anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, Autism spectrum disorders, and other neurological differences. She also works with clients who have experienced religious/spiritual trauma. In addition to serving as NFCC's, clinical director, Audrey operates her very own private practice focusing on religious trauma as well as major life transitions with adults and teens. Audrey also works as an artist creating beautiful canvas pieces, is a certified yoga instructor, and enjoys time with her family, adorable niece, and sweet rescue dog, Sedona.Resources:Audrey’s Private PracticeLeaving the Fold By Marlene WinellSacred Wounds: A Path to Healing from Spiritual Trauma By Teresa B. PasqualeRebuilding A Sense of Self: Coping with Religious Trauma Syndrome Podcast Episode from ‘Mindshift Podcast’For Religious Institutions Looking to be Preventative of TraumaRecommended Instagram Accounts: @reclamationcollective@drlauraandersenA special thanks to our team:Tracy Lehman, Host & Executive ProducerOs Galindo, Senior Producer & EngineerYue Nakayama, Audio EngineerJacel Dickson, Editor & Graphic DesignerAdministrators: Mary Elizabeth Hand and Audrey Omensonwith music by Jim RomanThanks for listening!