
Hosted by Shaina Siber, LCSW · EN
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGcFZczk00/ZfnW81OzphkKRXy4UVuDyA/edit?utm_content=DAGcFZczk00&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Episode Summary: In this episode of Affirming Minds, host Shaina Siber dives into the transformative power of values-based Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for treating OCD. Joining Shaina are Meghin Lisi, LMFT, and Danielle Henderson, PsyD, LPC, co-founders of THRIVE: Training Hub for Anxiety and OCD Intervention and Education. Together, they explore how integrating clients’ values into ERP not only enhances motivation but also creates meaningful and lasting change in their lives. This compassionate, client-centered approach is reshaping the way therapists support individuals struggling with OCD and anxiety disorders. --- What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Fundamentals of OCD Treatment: Understanding obsessions, compulsions, and the OCD cycle. Introduction to ERP: Why Exposure and Response Prevention is the gold standard for OCD treatment. Values-Based Therapy: How incorporating clients’ values into ERP enhances motivation and outcomes. Misdiagnosis and Gaps in Care: Common misconceptions about OCD and the importance of proper assessment. Therapist Perspectives: Challenges clinicians face when merging values with ERP and strategies for success. Compassionate ERP: Why this client-centered approach is more effective than traditional methods. --- About Our Guests: Meghin Lisi, LMFT Meghin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in NY and MD specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders. As co-founder of THRIVE, she provides training and consultation to clinicians on effective therapeutic techniques, blending family systems, ERP, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Meghin’s work is deeply rooted in compassion and collaboration, focusing on creating lasting change for individuals and families. Danielle Henderson, PsyD, LPC Danielle is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Psychologist in Pennsylvania with over 16 years of experience. As a leading expert in ERP and ACT for OCD and anxiety disorders, Danielle’s mission is to equip therapists with the skills to confidently treat their clients. Through THRIVE, she continues to provide specialized training and support to clinicians worldwide. --- Key Takeaways from the Episode: OCD Targets Values: Learn why OCD often attacks what matters most to clients and how this insight informs values-based ERP. The Role of Collaboration: Discover how a strong therapist-client relationship fosters trust and willingness to engage in challenging work. Addressing Misconceptions: Break free from stereotypes about ERP being cold or extreme and explore how compassionate approaches create safer spaces for healing. Therapists’ Role: Insights on managing clinician discomfort and building resilience to provide effective care. --- Resources Mentioned: THRIVE: Training Hub for Anxiety and OCD Website: thriveocd.com Explore training courses, free resources, and more from Meghin and Danielle. International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) iocdf.org --- January Impact Initiative: If you’re listening in January 2025, Affirm is donating $7 from every continuing education purchase this month to support those impacted by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Whether it’s registering for a live course, purchasing a self-study, or joining our monthly membership, you can make a difference while enhancing your skills. Visit AffirmMentalHealth.com to explore our CE products. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional. --- Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AFFIRMMentalHealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. See full information for this continuing education course here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGbcHWpZPs/zR6Vw_mc9qpp4Ses2eKxxQ/edit?utm_content=DAGbcHWpZPs&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of Affirming Minds, Shaina Siber, LCSW sits down with Dr. Sami Pieknik, PsyD David Meer, LPC, two passionate neurodiversity-affirming clinicians, to discuss the complexities of masking among neurodivergent individuals. Together, they explore the psychological and emotional toll masking can take, the role societal expectations play in its development, and actionable strategies therapists can implement to foster safe, affirming spaces for authentic self-expression. Listeners will gain insights into the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals, the challenges of unmasking, and how neurodiversity-affirming care can lead to meaningful therapeutic outcomes. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Neurodivergent individuals often mask as a survival mechanism to navigate societal and professional spaces. Long-term masking can lead to significant mental health consequences, including autistic burnout and suicidal ideation. Therapists must prioritize safety, avoid pressuring clients to mask, and create affirming, flexible spaces tailored to individual needs. Incorporate sensory tools, adjust communication styles, and offer psychoeducation on masking to clients and families. True neurodiversity-affirming care extends beyond the therapy room into broader advocacy and systemic change. Key Discussion Points: Defining Masking What is masking, and how does it differ from impression management? The role of safety, stigma, and societal pressures in masking behaviors. Psychological Impact of Masking Understanding the link between masking, autistic burnout, anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. Why masking can lead to feelings of inauthenticity and disconnection. Therapeutic Interventions to Support Neurodivergent Clients Recognizing masking behaviors in clinical settings. Creating safe, supportive spaces to foster self-awareness and reduce masking. The importance of sensory accommodations, flexibility in therapeutic approaches, and validating clients’ lived experiences. Systemic and Societal Influences How societal expectations and neurotypical norms perpetuate masking. Shifting from deficit-based models to strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming care. Clinicians’ Role in Advocacy and Deconstruction How therapists can reflect on their own biases and practices. Recognizing performative affirming care and staying aligned with neurodiversity-affirming values. About the Guest: Learn more about David and Dr. Sami’s work at @neuro.pier on Instagram or visit their websites at https://www.neurodiversecounseling.com or https://www.drpieknik.com/. Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGZeiZSSvc/nWnbtGrpocGlB3V572dAaQ/edit?utm_content=DAGZeiZSSvc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Episode Description: In this solo episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber, LCSW, dives deep into the world of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). Shaina makes a compelling case for why every therapist—especially those working in community mental health settings—should consider incorporating IPT into their therapeutic repertoire. From its strong evidence base to its client-centered focus on relationships, IPT offers unique advantages that are both practical and impactful. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the foundational principles of IPT, its therapeutic approach, and how it addresses four key interpersonal problem areas: grief, role transitions, interpersonal disputes, and interpersonal deficits. Shaina also explores the therapeutic function of the interpersonal inventory and provides actionable insights for applying IPT in clinical practice. Whether you’re new to IPT or looking to expand your therapeutic tools, this episode will inspire you to rethink how you approach relational challenges in therapy. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The history and development of IPT and its attachment-focused framework. Why IPT’s time-limited, structured approach aligns well with the realities of community mental health and the medical model. A breakdown of the four interpersonal problem areas targeted in IPT. The role of the interpersonal inventory in assessing relational patterns and setting treatment goals. Practical interventions therapists can use, such as role-playing, communication analysis, and building social supports. Key Takeaways: IPT is an evidence-based approach with a proven track record for treating depression and related conditions. Its focus on interpersonal relationships makes it highly relevant for clients experiencing relational distress. IPT’s simplicity and adaptability make it an excellent choice for new therapists or those seeking to expand their skill set. While IPT is underutilized compared to approaches like CBT, it offers unique advantages that deserve more recognition in the mental health field. Resources Mentioned: Books: The Guide to Interpersonal Psychotherapy by Myrna Weissman, Gerald Klerman, and John Markowitz. Interpersonal Psychotherapy: A Clinician's Guide by Scott Stuart and Michael Robertson. Training Opportunities: Visit IPTInstitute.com for intensive training programs and certification in IPT. Continuing Education: Check out Affirm Mental Health for CE opportunities, including courses on IPT: AffirmMentalHealth.com. Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you loved this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGY0pN7nj4/6J3mPfEhspRcwpt8BrJjaA/edit?utm_content=DAGY0pN7nj4&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton. Episode Description: In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz sits down with Dr. Karinn Glover, a psychiatrist specializing in community mental health and the integration of physical and mental health care. Together, they explore the complex and often misunderstood topic of perimenopause. With personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Dr. Glover unpacks the physiological, psychological, and cultural aspects of this transitional life stage. Listeners will gain actionable insights into supporting clients or loved ones navigating this journey, along with strategies for clinicians to provide affirming and comprehensive care. Course Objectives: Define perimenopause, including its typical onset, duration, and symptoms. Analyze the connections between hormonal changes and mental health, particularly with respect to anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Recognize the influence of cultural, societal, and familial factors on the perimenopause experience, and apply culturally responsive interventions to improve therapeutic outcomes. Key Topics Covered: What is perimenopause? A breakdown of its onset, duration, and symptoms. The role of hormonal fluctuations on mood, cognition, and overall mental health. Exploring the underdiagnosis of perimenopause in psychiatric evaluations and its impact on treatment. Societal and cultural narratives surrounding aging and perimenopause. How perimenopause influences family dynamics, intimacy, and personal identity. The importance of culturally responsive care for marginalized populations experiencing prolonged perimenopause. Empowering patients through psychoeducation, pharmacological options, and interdisciplinary interventions like pelvic floor therapy. Key Takeaways: Perimenopause can last 2-10 years and is marked by hormonal changes that affect physical and mental health. Symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood shifts are often dismissed or misdiagnosed, creating gaps in care. Therapists play a critical role in bridging the gap by providing education, compassion, and tailored interventions. Cultural factors significantly influence the perimenopause experience and require sensitivity in clinical practice. Aging can be reframed as an empowering and liberating phase when clients are supported holistically. Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGYNIRh8mg/ikORDm9qZfuTFLGy5Tac5g/edit?utm_content=DAGYNIRh8mg&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of Affirming Minds, Shaina sits down with Jennie Ketcham Crooks, LICSW, author of Look Up: The 30-Day Path to Digital Minimalism and Real Life Maximalism. Together, they explore how our relationship with digital devices impacts mental health and well-being. Jenny shares powerful insights, grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT), that help listeners identify their values, minimize mindless phone use, and reclaim vitality in their lives. Whether you’re a therapist looking for clinical applications or someone hoping to navigate your own digital habits, this episode offers strategies to transform your relationship with technology. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What digital minimalism is and why it matters for mental health. How smartphones function as tools for experiential avoidance and how this impacts emotional well-being. Practical habit reversal and stimulus control techniques to address problematic phone use. ACT principles that foster mindfulness, present-moment awareness, and values-driven actions in the face of digital distractions. How digital minimalism enhances life satisfaction, interpersonal relationships, and emotional resilience. Key Topics Discussed: The Concept of Digital Minimalism: Operationalizing digital habits to align with personal values. Experiential Avoidance and Autopilot: Recognizing how smartphones are often used to escape discomfort. Jenny’s Personal Journey: The moment that inspired her to write the book and transform her own digital habits. Clinical Applications: Using digital minimalism strategies to support clients with anxiety, depression, body image issues, and perfectionism. Techniques in Action: Naming your phone to foster awareness. The “Look Up” intervention to highlight missed moments. Using a lifeline exercise to visualize the long-term impact of digital habits. Compassionate Accountability: Inviting clients to engage family and friends in creating meaningful change. Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you loved this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. SIGN IN: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGWR91znOk/DLLJl8KCUv3BaEKElbeG2g/edit?utm_content=DAGWR91znOk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Episode Description: In this episode, we welcome Alisa Kamis-Brinda, LCSW, LCADC, a licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor with over 20 years of experience in anger management, anxiety, and trauma-informed care. Alisa brings her expertise to the podcast as she dives deep into the complex and often misunderstood emotion of anger. She discusses when anger should be a direct focus in therapy and how clinicians can discern between anger as an emotion versus anger as a behavioral response. This conversation is essential for clinicians and individuals alike, offering insights into the varied expressions of anger—from the overt outbursts to the subtle, passive-aggressive behaviors that often go unnoticed. Alisa also explores the importance of a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach to anger, recognizing that clients may have unique experiences and histories that shape how they perceive and express this emotion. You’ll learn about the powerful role of psychoeducation in anger management, how mindfulness can help clients recognize early signs of anger, and evidence-based strategies that support assertive communication and emotional regulation. Who Should Listen: This episode is invaluable for mental health professionals, students, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of anger. Whether you're a clinician looking for therapeutic insights or someone seeking tools to manage your own anger, this episode provides a compassionate, informative, and actionable approach. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to describe when anger should be a direct target in therapy, considering factors such as trauma history, cultural context, and the client’s overall treatment goals. Participants will be able to identify and address overlooked manifestations of anger in clients and develop strategies to enhance their clinical sensitivity to subtle expressions of anger, particularly within diverse populations Participants will be able to create individualized anger management treatment plans that could incorporate mindfulness techniques, evidence-based strategies Key Takeaways: When Anger Should Be a Target in Therapy: Understanding when and why anger becomes a central focus in treatment, especially when factors like trauma history or cultural context are at play. Recognizing Overlooked Expressions of Anger: Insight into subtle signs of anger, such as passive and passive-aggressive behaviors, and strategies to address them compassionately. Personalizing Anger Management Plans: Tailoring therapeutic interventions to include mindfulness practices, assertive communication, and evidence-based techniques to meet clients' unique needs and backgrounds. The Role of Psychoeducation: How educating clients on the fight-or-flight response and the biological underpinnings of anger can reduce shame and help build self-awareness. Mindfulness as a Foundational Skill: How mindfulness helps clients notice the early physical and emotional signs of anger, empowering them to make intentional choices before reacting. Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you loved this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Where to find Alisa: https://serenitysolutionstherapy.com/ Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button. Sign in: Affirm Academy Members: Log in to get your CEs! If you're already a member, you can log in to your account here: https://shaina-siber-sanderowitz.mykajabi.com/login to take your post-test/evaluation and get your certificate within minutes. SIGN UP: Become a member here: https://affirmmentalhealth.com/become-a-member/ Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGWZc5xmV8/JXldwZtEox5iSjgfOqXWog/edit?utm_content=DAGWZc5xmV8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Episode Description: This episode features Erin Pressman, LCSW-C, a seasoned clinical social worker and founder of Lodestar Wellness LLC, as she explores strategies for addressing the Parent Control Agenda and integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to foster healthier family dynamics. This episode is a must-listen for clinicians seeking to support collaborative relationships between parents and children, helping both parties navigate control dynamics in meaningful ways. In her practice, Erin Pressman applies ACT techniques across multiple settings, including True North Therapy and Consulting and the Center for Developmental and Behavioral Health at Kennedy Krieger Institute. With degrees in Intercultural Communication Through Theater and Social Work, along with an AMI Elementary Education Certificate, Erin has contributed to various ACT protocols for families, including high school mentorship programs, parents of emerging adults, and adolescents with depression, in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Hospital. Her extensive background also includes serving on the ACBS Midatlantic Chapter board, enhancing the use of ACT in clinical and research contexts. Episode Highlights Include: · Understanding the Parent Control Agenda and how it shapes the therapeutic process · ACT-Based Interventions for Control Dynamics to create a balanced therapeutic approach · Integrating Values in Therapy to foster a collaborative environment between parents and children Learning Objectives: · Define the concept of the parent control agenda and identify its key components within the therapeutic context. · Analyze the effects of the parent control agenda on the therapy process and formulate at least one effective strategy to address these influences during counseling sessions. · Evaluate the roles of both parent and child values in guiding therapeutic interventions and develop approaches to integrate these values into effective treatment planning Don't Forget to Subscribe: If you love this episode, be sure to follow The Affirming Minds Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts. Share it on your socials and help us grow the community of engaged, empowered, and educated mental health professionals. Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tag us on social media with your biggest takeaways! Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn FREE CEs! Follow this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScJXleRQZFLn_7TbOybXoDnvhvKkNIGPDDR4jMhuk0ng6782A/viewform?usp=sf_link to complete a posttest and feedback evaluation and receive your certificate within minutes! Affirm Academy Member earn CEs for listening to The Affirming Minds Podcast + live virtual workshops & our curated library of self study webinars. Learn more at affirmmentalhealth.com For course information, please visit: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGWOyV3njg/YeqiHzR5j2oPwy8yF-oQEQ/edit?utm_content=DAGWOyV3njg&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking work of Dr. Dana Crawford and her transformative Crawford Bias Reduction Theory (CBRT). As bias and accountability become increasingly critical topics in the therapeutic space and beyond, Dr. Crawford’s CBRT approach stands out as a powerful, action-oriented plan for addressing both implicit and explicit biases. This method emphasizes compassion, self-reflection, and accountability—empowering therapists and individuals to engage in ongoing, meaningful change. Join us as Dr. Crawford discusses the origins of CBRT, inspired by her own observations of bias within clinical and educational settings, and her dedication to reducing the impact of bias in therapy. She explains CBRT’s unique approach, contrasting it with traditional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) methods, and shares how CBRT goes beyond definitions to offer practical, actionable steps. What You’ll Learn: The Core Components of CBRT: Dr. Crawford walks through CBRT’s key elements, from awareness and investigation to reduction, with actionable tools for both therapists and clients. Why Compassion Matters: Explore how CBRT integrates compassion to address bias without shame, promoting an environment where genuine growth and healing can occur. The “LET UP” Framework: Dr. Crawford introduces her "LET UP" technique, a step-by-step process for managing bias with Listening, Empathizing, Talking, Unconditional Regard, and Planning. Practical Applications in Therapy: Learn how CBRT helps clinicians move from awareness to action, using real-life examples and role-plays to reduce bias effectively. Handling Defensiveness and Shame: Dr. Crawford shares strategies for overcoming defensiveness in therapeutic settings, allowing for an open, accountable approach to growth. CBRT Beyond Therapy: Discover how CBRT can be applied in various professional settings, from healthcare and corporate environments to community spaces, fostering inclusivity and respect. Who This Episode Is For: Therapists and Clinicians seeking actionable strategies for addressing bias in their practice. DEI Professionals looking for an innovative, action-oriented model to incorporate into their work. Individuals and Leaders in healthcare, education, and corporate sectors who want to make bias reduction an integral part of their organizational culture. Find Us Here: https://www.affirmmentalhealth.com Instagram: @affirmmentalhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556924200735 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-siber-sanderowitz-905089249/ Tiktok: @affirm_mental_health Connect with Dr. Dana Crawford: Website: CBRTForEveryone.com Instagram: @DrDanaCrawford LinkedIn: Dr. Dana Crawford Bibliography: Crawford, D. E., Chomilo, N. T., Glusman, M., Patel, M., Krug, L., & Kaplan-Sanoff, M. (2019). " LET UP": A Systematic Approach to Responding to Cultural Bias in Health Care. Zero to Three, 40(2).