Adrienne Griffen, MPP, takes us on an insightful journey into the world of maternal mental health. She discusses the prevalence and wide range of mental health conditions that can arise during pregnancy and postpartum, including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and, in some cases, psychosis. Adrienne opens up about her personal experience with postpartum depression, emphasizing the importance of education, advocacy, and access to resources for mothers facing similar challenges. She also highlights new treatment options, including revolutionary medications, and underscores the critical role of self-care, social support, and therapy. Adrienne explains the urgent need for widespread education and routine screening, as well as the importance of equipping families with tools to offer effective support.

Connect with Adrienne Griffen:

Adrienne Griffen, MPP, is an advocate and nationally recognized expert in the field of maternal mental health. She is a sought-after speaker and educator, using her lived experience (laced with humor) to engage audiences on issues surrounding the mental health and wellbeing of our nation’s mothers. Adrienne is the Executive Director of Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the mental health of mothers and childbearing people in the United States with a focus on national policy and health equity. Adrienne serves on the National Maternal Mental Health Task Force, and on the Boards of Directors of the Marce Society of North America and the Mental Health Liaison Group. She also founded Postpartum Support Virginia, which she led for ten years. She lives in Arlington, VA with her husband and three young adult children.

mmhla.org/fact-sheets

postpartumva.org

Episode Timestamps:

• (01:30) Defining maternal mental health
• (03:15) Adrienne’s personal experience with PPD
• (05:30) Current trends and interventions; Postpartum Support International
• (10:50) Innovative treatments and medications; mental health screenings
• (17:00) Supporting new moms and families
• (19:45) Advocating for yourself and others

EMDR Basic Training

Register Now for the January/March 2025 Training!

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Kerri Brady, VP of Educational Practice at Huckabee and board member of the Texas School Safety Center, explores how architectural design influences student mental wellness and emotional regulation in schools. Kerri dives into the concept of trauma-informed design, discussing how purposeful layouts and thoughtful spaces can help manage emotional dysregulation in high-stress areas like cafeterias. She also introduces the five phases of emergency management and advocates for the design community to play a more active role in preventive measures against school violence. Tune in to learn how intentional design fosters human connection, comfort, and emotional support for students and staff alike, ultimately contributing to a more resilient school environment.

Connect with Kerri Brady:

huckabee-inc.com/leadership/kerri-ranney

Episode Timestamps:

• (03:00) Architectural design and school safety
• (04:00) Five phases of emergency management
• (08:15) Designing trauma-informed spaces
• (12:20) Emotional dysregulation; creating a calmer nervous system
• (19:35) Designing spaces that foster human connection
• (26:45) Advocating for the design process of a school facility

EMDR Basic Training

Register Now for the January/March 2025 Training!

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Jamie Sedgwick shares her insights on the stigma surrounding Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and discusses how it is often misunderstood and wrongly believed to be untreatable. She emphasizes the effectiveness of therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in treating BPD. Jamie also talks about the importance of therapists taking care of themselves to avoid burnout and advocates for de-stigmatizing BPD by understanding the behaviors as former adaptive skills for getting needs met. This conversation aims to inspire mental health professionals and advocates to challenge existing stigmas and approaches to BPD treatment.

About Jamie Sedgwick:

Jamie is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. She has worked in the mental health field for over 10 years and has been trained in EMDR since 2017. Jamie credits EMDR with changing her practice as a therapist and helping her be more effective in assisting clients in healing from a wide range of presenting problems. Jamie has a passion for working with Complex Trauma and a Special Interest in Personality Disorders. In addition to her clinical work, she is an EMDR Consultant and acts as the Training Director for Trauma Specialists Training Institute. Jamie has experience in leading EMDR Basic Training as well as creating and facilitating EMDR Advanced Trainings. She enjoys her roles as a consultant and trainer because it allows her the opportunity to meet like-minded clinicians and assist them in learning how to implement EMDR into their own clinical practice in a way that makes the most sense to the clinician and the client.

traumaspecialiststraining.com

Episode Timestamps:

• (02:20) Stigma and misconceptions about BPD
• (04:15) The role of EMDR in treating BPD
• (06:20) Behaviors and symptoms of BPD
• (11:20) Jamie’s passion to destigmatize the BPD population
• (13:10) Developing effective treatment plans
• (16:00) Messages of hope and advocacy

Borderline Personality Disorder Through A Trauma Lens

Destigmatize BPD, Gain Skills and Reduce Your Fear

Register Now for the December 12th Virtual Training!

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Lohelani Furtardo-Gaspar, Director of Cultural Education at Ka`ehu in Maui, gives insight into the deep-rooted intergenerational trauma tied to the Hawaiian language and traditions, and how Ka`ehu is working to heal these wounds by integrating cultural education with environmental awareness. She shares how Ka`ehu has evolved from a conservation-focused organization into a vibrant hub for kids and families, offering programs like Hanano'o and Kilo to strengthen connections with nature. She also explains the creative ways Ka`ehu teaches essential life skills, with hands-on activities that promote problem-solving and communication among parents and children. In addition, Lohelani reflects on her work at Lahaina High School and her vision to expand these impactful programs across more schools and islands, despite the challenges. This episode offers an inspiring look at how reclaiming culture and caring for the environment can empower future generations in Hawaii.

About Lohe Furtardo-Gaspar:

Lohelani grew up in Kalihi on the island of Hawaii, where she was immersed in the rich culture and traditions of the community. She attended the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where she earned both a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW). Since 2016, she has been part of the Ka`ehu community, and transitioned to the Director of Cultural Education in 2020. In this position, she coordinates and facilitates workshops, events, and field trips at Kaehu Bay, aiming to enrich the cultural experiences of the community. She is dedicated to advancing her career in social work and is actively working towards obtaining her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification. Her goal is to create a positive impact in the lives of those she serves, drawing on her experiences and cultural background to inform her practice.

kaehu.org

Episode Timestamps:

• (02:15) Ka`ehu's mission and community programs
• (05:00) Instilling pride and overcoming shame as a Hawaiian native
• (08:55) Kilo; environmental connection
• (13:45) Strengthening parent-child relationships
• (17:40) The impact of Ka`ehu's cultural programs
• (19:30) Lohelani’s personal journey and involvement with Ka`ehu
• (23:50) Proverb of encouragement; having an open heart and mind

Borderline Personality Disorder Through A Trauma Lens

Destigmatize BPD, Gain Skills and Reduce Your Fear

Register Now for the December 12th Virtual Training!

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Alison Pidgeon dives into the challenges faced by the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed individuals) population. Despite being employed and insured, these individuals often struggle to afford therapy. Alison shares her journey from community mental health to establishing her own large group practice, Move Forward Counseling, and her mission to break down systemic barriers and reduce stigma in mental health. She highlights legislative wins in Pennsylvania, like provisional licensure for professional counselors to increase available therapists and initiatives to further integrate coaching with therapy. She also discusses the need for systemic improvements and innovative approaches in mental health care, including the potential future use of psilocybin in therapy and leveraging technology and community resources to improve accessibility and reduce stigma.

About Alison Pidgeon:

Alison Pidgeon is the Founder and CEO of Move Forward Counseling LLC, a mental health outpatient private practice spanning the state of Pennsylvania. Her training and education is as a licensed professional counselor, but now she is the visionary for her business of 80 employees. Alison also works as a business consultant, started and successfully sold a virtual assistant company, and is a real estate investor. In her spare time, she chases after her 3 boys and drives a minivan to soccer practice.

moveforwardpa.com

linkedin.com/in/alison-pidgeon

Episode Timestamps:

• (02:05) Alison’s journey to advocacy
• (05:00) Current challenges in the mental health system
• (09:45) The ALICE community
• (12:00) Collaborating with United Way of Pennsylvania
• (13:55) Legislative efforts; provisional licensure for LPCs
• (17:00) Ideas for the future of therapy; psilocybin
• (18:05) Integrating therapy and coaching

Borderline Personality Disorder Through A Trauma Lens

Destigmatize BPD, Gain Skills and Reduce Your Fear

Register Now for the December 12th Virtual Training!

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Julie Kliegman dives into the often overlooked mental health challenges faced by athletes. She discusses her book, 'Mind Games', and her journey into exploring mental wellness in sports. The conversation highlights the public's often unrealistic expectations of athletes, the stigma around mental health, and the pressures arising from a high-profile sports career. Notable mentions include athletes like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, Renee Richards, and the impact of race, gender, and identity on the perception of mental health issues. Julie also discusses the role of sports psychology, the need for better support systems, and the importance of recognizing athletes as regular people despite their exceptional public performances.

About Julie Kliegman:

Julie Kliegman is a writer and editor in New York whose work has appeared in outlets including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Sports Illustrated, Slate, Vulture, The Ringer, Texas Monthly, and more. Their first book, Mind Game: An Inside Look at the Mental Health Playbook of Elite Athletes, was published in 2024.

juliekliegman.com

Purchase Mind Game Here / Signed copies

Episode Timestamps:

• (01:35) Julie’s interest in mental wellness for athletes
• (02:20) Athletes speaking out; breaking the stigma
• (04:10) Challenges faced by athletes: race, gender, and identity
• (06:45) The role of coaches and teams; financial inequities
• (08:40) The progress being made and future needs
• (11:20) Confidentiality concerns in team environments
• (16:15) Sports psychology; creative approaches to mental wellness for athletes
• (19:30) Julie’s upcoming book about Renee Richards
• (20:45) It’s ok to not be ok

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Lisa R. Savage, the founder and lead therapist at the Center for Child Development in Delaware, shares her entrepreneurial journey and candidly discusses the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way; from credentialing nightmares to insurance audits, and her relentless commitment to providing excellent care for children and adolescents in schools. The conversation also extends into the pressing need for advocacy in the field of mental health. Lisa addresses the predatory practices of tech companies and the complicated dynamics of working with insurance companies, particularly in an era of shifting landscapes marked by increased audits and value-based care models. Lisa also dives into her grassroots advocacy efforts in Delaware, highlighting her work to rally local mental health professionals and engage with policymakers for much-needed reforms.

About Lisa R. Savage:

Lisa R. Savage, LCSW, is a seasoned mental health professional with over two decades of experience in clinical practice and mental health advocacy. As the founder and lead therapist at the Center for Child Development in Delaware, Lisa is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and families. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of therapeutic approaches tailored to each client’s unique needs. Lisa’s commitment to improving mental health access and active involvement in community outreach have made her a respected figure in the mental health field. She is also a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, striving to ensure all individuals receive the support and resources needed to thrive.

The national advocacy Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/unitedtochangehealthcare

A very eye-opening article.

Episode Timestamps:

• (02:30) From group practice to entrepreneurship
• (07:25) Importance of having a support network
• (10:00) Changes and challenges in modern mental healthcare
• (15:40) Challenges with insurance and tech companies
• (19:00) Grassroots efforts for mental health advocacy in delaware
• (24:05) Advocating for mental health amidst corporate challenges

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

Will Ratliff, the co-founder of Transcend Health Solutions, an IV ketamine-assisted therapy practice, dives into how his unique background as an EMT and paramedic led him to the world of ketamine therapy. He shares details about the challenges and innovations within the ketamine therapy industry, the importance of psychotherapeutic support, and the hurdles faced in gaining acceptance within the medical community. Will also discusses his personal journey with PTSD, the founding of Transcend, and offers powerful advice on pursuing one's dreams despite the obstacles. Tune in to learn more about the potential of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as a transformative approach in mental health care!

About Will Ratliff:

Will is a Paramedic and Registered Nurse that has spent his life focused on helping those afflicted by trauma. His focus was primarily on physical trauma for over a decade before switching gears and focusing on psychological trauma. Will has worked in ambulances, ER’s, critical care units, drug rehabs, inpatient psych units, and served as a flight nurse/paramedic before founding Transcend Health Solutions, a company focused on utilizing IV Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy to help people with extensive trauma who have not been helped by the current healthcare system. Transcend is known as one of the world's leading Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy providers. Will is a total Ketamine nerd/subject matter expert but is also versed in all things related to psychedelic medicine and the treatment of PTSD, CPTSD, bipolar disorder and suicidal ideation.

transcendketamine.com

Transcend Ketamine Podcast

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/will-ratliff

Instagram: @transcendkap

Email: info@transcendketamine.com

Phone: 833-313-2512

Episode Timestamps:

• (01:45) Will’s journey into ketamine therapy
• (05:05) The challenges and innovations in ketamine therapy
• (07:15) The importance of psychotherapeutic support
• (08:45) Creating a successful ketamine therapy practice
• (12:55) Research and efficacy of ketamine assisted psychotherapy
• (16:10) Addressing concerns and misconceptions
• (18:30) The entrepreneurial journey

Watch this episode on YouTube:

youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796