The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

When Laws and Ethics Conflict: Civil Disobedience, Social Justice, and Our Role as TherapistsCurt and Katie chat about what happens when legal requirements clash with ethical responsibilities—and how therapists can stay grounded in their values while navigating complex decisions. When you find yourself in a situation where the law seems to contradict your ethics, or even violate your clients’ basic human rights, what do you do? In this deep-dive episode, we explore the tension between law and ethics and the moral courage required to practice in alignment with your values. From post-9/11 changes in APA’s ethics code to current issues likegender-affirming care restrictions, we explore real-world implications and guide you through a framework for ethical decision-making in the face of legal and systemic challenges. This is a continuing education podcourse. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode we talk about laws, ethics, and the difficult decisions therapists face in practice Executive orders and nationwide proposed legislative bills that affect mental health have left therapists wondering, “Will my ethics protect me?” This episode and podcourse explores the interplay between laws and ethics, how professional organizations guide therapists when laws and ethics collide and gives a framework for how therapists should proceed. Participants willlearn how to identify potential conflicts, understand their legal and ethical obligations, and develop effective decision-making processes. Topics explored will include risk management strategies, consultation best practices, and documentation considerations in conflictual situations.How do Modern Therapists navigate Ethics vs. Law in our practices?·      Where clinical ethics and legal obligations collide·      How our ethical codes approach this conflict (APA, ACA, NASW, CAMFT)·      The importance of understanding your responsibilities beyond complianceCivil Disobedience as Therapists out in the world and in our offices·      Philosophical roots: Antigone, Nuremberg, and post-9/11 ethics reform·      When following the law may cause harm to clients or communities·      How to protect your license while still honoring human rightsReal-Life Legal versus Ethical Dilemmas for Modern Therapists ·      What to do when reporting requirements might increase harm·      How to support trans and gender-diverse clients in states with discriminatory laws·      Navigating confidentiality, documentation, and advocacyA Therapist’s Decision-Making Process for Civil DisobedienceFrom Knapp, S., Gottlieb, M., Berman, J., & Handelsman, M. M. (2007). When laws and ethics collide: What should psychologists do? ·   Seek consultation to understand your legal requirements (know what the law is actually asking you to do, even if that means taking the time to consult with an attorney)·      Clearly understand your ethical obligations (read the language of the ethics code and consult with trusted colleagues)·      Consider alternatives that allow following the law while upholding your values·      Contemplate violating the law only if no viable alternatives exist, and if so, limit disobedience to the minimum necessary to fulfill the higher goalReceive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’s Survival GuideContinuing Education Approvals: Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies.Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Reproductive Mental Health, Intersectionality, and Systemic Barriers: Aninterview with Dr. Loree JohnsonCurt and Katie chat with Dr. Loree Johnson about the intersections of reproductive mental health, race, and systemic injustice. Dr. Johnson shared powerful insights about the shame, grief, and medical trauma that many clients face, especially Black women and other folks fromhistorically marginalized communities. We dive into how therapists can hold safer, more informed spaces for clients experiencing infertility and pregnancy loss, and how systemic racism and historical harm continue to shape reproductive healthcare today.Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode, we talk about reproductive trauma, systemic barriers to care, and the need for cultural humility in therapyWe were honored to sit down with Dr. Loree Johnson, LMFT, PhD—an expert in reproductive mental health who brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation. We explore how therapists can better support clients navigating infertility, pregnancy loss, and trauma, especially clients from marginalized communities.What do therapists often get wrong about reproductive mental health?·    Avoiding the conversation about infertility and pregnancy loss because therapists feel undertrained or uncomfortable·   Therapists overlook the impact of race, history, and oppression in reproductive trauma·   Assuming fertility issues affect only straight, cisgender couples·   Minimizing or misunderstanding the grief associated with pregnancy loss and infertilityWhat is the role of systemic racism and historical trauma for Black womenseeking reproductive care?·    Mistrust of the medical system due to real, generational harm (e.g., J. Marion Sims, Henrietta Lacks, Tuskegee)·    Myths of hyper-fertility in Black women and the erasure of infertility struggles in communities of color·   Disenfranchised grief and cultural stigma around fertility challenges·   Weathering: the cumulative impact of chronic stress and racism on physical and reproductive healthHow can therapists show up better for clients who are experiencinginfertility and pregnancy loss?·   Learn the terminology and processes around fertility treatments and pregnancy loss·   Create space for conversations around sex, reproduction, and grief—even if it’s uncomfortable·   Practice cultural humility and intimacy: be willing to be wrong, to sit with pain, and to build trust·   Acknowledge your own limitations and biases while staying curious and committed to learning·   Be prepared for these conversations—even if you don’t specialize in reproductive mental healthStay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

What Therapists Need to Know to Support the Trans Community: An interview withArtie HartsellCurt and Katie chat with Artie Hartsell from ACLU North Carolina about how current anti-trans policies are impacting the trans community. We explore the historical erasure of trans identities, the rise of anti-trans legislation, and the real-world impact on housing, medical care, and documentation. Artie also shares resources for legal aid, community support, and how therapists can show up for their trans clients.Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode, we explore the real-life consequences of anti-trans policiesCurt and Katie sit down with Artie Hartsell, MSW, an advocate and organizer with the ACLU of North Carolina, to discuss how recent political changes are affecting the trans community. How are trans rights being threatened today? Over 1,000 anti-trans bills and executive orders have been introduced in the U.S. Passport and documentation delays create barriers for trans individuals. Housing discrimination and increased risks for unhoused trans individuals. Medical care restrictions limit access to gender-affirming treatment. A rise in state and local laws emboldening discrimination against trans people. What can therapists do to support trans clients? Make their practice as welcoming as possible by being transparent about their knowledge and limitations. Partner with local LGBTQ organizations to stay informed and provide accurate resources. Be mindful of documentation practices to protect trans clients from potential harm. Encourage trans clients to build strong communities and mutual aid networks. Resources for Trans Individuals and Allies: Legal Aid and Advocacy: ACLU, Lambda Legal, National Center for Lesbian Rights Medical Resources: Campaign for Southern Equality, Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) Community Support: PFLAG, local LGBTQ centers How can allies and therapists take action to support the trans community?·   Educate yourself on trans rights and the implications of recent laws. ·   Provide direct support by connecting trans clients to legal and medical resources. ·   Engage in advocacy through organizations like the ACLU and local LGBTQ groups.·   Encourage trans individuals to document and preserve their community’s history.Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

What Should Not Be Normalized in Our Profession?Curt and Katie chat about a discussion that came up in the Modern Therapists Facebook group – What is something that you wish other therapists would stop pretending is normal. We explore the normalization of waiting until license renewal for CE, balancing accountability without chastising clients, and acknowledging countertransference in therapy. We also tackle the high costs of specialized training, the problems of treating children in isolation without family involvement, and the systemic issue of unpaid internships and low therapist wages. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode we explore frustrations modern therapists have with our professionCurt and Katie dive into some of the things that therapists normalize that maybe they shouldn’t, gathered from discussions in the Modern Therapist Facebook Group. What are struggles that are normalized for therapists?·      Waiting until right before license renewal to complete continuing education (CE)·    Not figuring out the difference between holding clients accountable vs. chastising or bullying them·     Failing to acknowledge countertransference and true emotions in therapy·      The high costs of specialized training·      Not recognizing the importance of family involvement in child therapy·      The impact of unpaid internships and low wages for therapistsIs the therapy profession setting itself up for burnout and financialstruggle?·      Many therapists procrastinate CE requirements, leading to unnecessary stress.·      Holding clients accountable is important, but it shouldn't come at the cost of rapport or shame.·      Denying countertransference is unrealistic — therapists have emotions too!·      Expensive training creates barriers to specialization, limiting accessibility.·      Therapists treating children without involving family may not be setting up the child for success.·      Unpaid internships and low wages continue to undervalue therapists’ work, making financial stability difficult.What can therapists do to improve their profession?·      Plan CE credits early to avoid last-minute stress.·      Frame accountability in a way that supports clients and aligns with their stated goals rather than chastises them.·      Acknowledge emotions in therapy without making sessions about the therapist.·      Seek out reasonably priced training options and advocate for more affordable education.·      Encourage family involvement when working with children (when appropriate).·      Push for industry-wide changes in pay and internship standards.Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

How Can Therapists Accept (and Impact) Technology?: An interview with Dr.David CooperCurt and Katie chat with Dr. David Cooper of Therapists inTech to explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapy.Dr. Cooper highlights the importance of tech literacy, privacy, and security indigital mental health while advocating for therapists to use AI as a tool forefficiency rather than replacement. He compares this shift to the transitionfrom paper charts to electronic health records (EHRs) and encourages therapiststo stay informed and engaged through communities like Therapists in Tech andthe Society for Digital Mental Health. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode, we talk about how therapists can engage with technologyAt the Behavioral Tech Conference, Katie met Dr. DavidCooper of therapists in tech. We invited him on to help us understand better howtherapists can engage with technology safely and ethically. As AI continues tointegrate into mental health care, therapists must embrace innovation whileadvocating for ethical, client-centered practices.How can therapists engage with AI and digital health responsibly? Use AI tools like ChatGPT for administrative efficiency and tech troubleshooting. Advocate for digital health education in graduate training programs. Seek guidance from digital health experts through groups like Therapists in Tech. Implement technology for administrative tasks, such as automated reminders and billing. Stay informed and connected with digital mental health advancements through professional communities. Key Takeaways from this podcast interview with Dr. David Cooper ofTherapists in Tech AI can enhance, not replace, therapy, improving efficiency in practice management. Ethical considerations remain crucial, especially regarding privacy and data security. Tech literacy is a necessary skill for all therapists as the field evolves. Therapists should take an active role in digital health advocacy to maintain the human element in care. Resources for Therapists Adapting to Digital Health: Therapists in Tech – A community for professionals navigating digital mental health. Society for Digital Mental Health – A resource hub for therapists exploring tech solutions. Behavioral Health Tech Conference – A key event for learning and networking in digital health. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, EroticTransference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists holdappropriate boundaries?Curt and Katie chat about a disciplinary case against Dr. Eric Bergeman,highlighting key ethical concerns for therapists. They explore documentationpractices, therapist responsibilities, and boundary management, particularly incases involving suicidality and erotic transference. The conversationunderscores the importance of clear treatment planning, proper record-keeping,and ethical decision-making to avoid legal and professional consequences. Thisis a continuing education podcourse.Transcriptsfor this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode we talk about suicidality,erotic transference, between-session communication, and documentation Therapists are given conflicting advice on when their dutiesto patients begin, how much they are expected to be available to clientsoutside of sessions, how they are to approach between-session communications,and how to document such communications. This episode explores a disciplinarycase where the California Board of Psychology investigated a therapist’sresponses to a client that filed a complaint about the therapist’s treatment.What therapists need to know about ethical boundaries and disciplinaryactions: The importance of proper documentation and clear treatment planning. How to respond to client suicidality in real-time, including assessment and intervention. Managing erotic transference with ethical boundaries and consultation. The role of Board of Psychology investigations in evaluating therapist conduct. Key Takeaways from Dr. Bergeman’s Disciplinary Case: The Board of Psychology found gross negligence due to poor documentation, inadequate diagnosis, and lack of clear therapeutic boundaries. Dr. Bergeman failed to properly address the client’s suicidality and borderline personality disorder, leading to ethical concerns. Consultation with another therapist revealed concerns about Bergeman’s treatment approach and lack of structured intervention. The Board initially sought a fine of $103,000, later reducing it to $10,363, citing good intentions but significant professional oversights. Receive Continuing Education for this Episode of the Modern Therapist’sSurvival GuideContinuing Education Approvals:Continuing Education Information including grievance and refund policies.Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined#TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

In this engaging discussion, Andy Strait, an immigration attorney and former public advocate, delves into the intersection of immigration policies and mental health. He highlights the pressing challenges immigrants face, including the impact of fear-driven policies on their wellbeing. Strait emphasizes the critical role therapists can play by offering pro bono evaluations and connecting clients with legal resources. Listeners gain valuable insights into the importance of legal representation and how therapists can create safe spaces for immigrant communities.

Reacting to Regime Change: How Therapists Can Advocate for our Clients and CommunitiesCurt and Katie chat about how the United States has shifted since the inauguration of President Trump. We look at how therapists can advocate for their clients and the communities they serve and/or live in. We look at strategies for therapists to stay informed, provide vetted resources, and be present for clients who may be struggling with the changes. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode we talk about the impact of political shifts on mental health careWith ongoing changes in healthcare policy, therapists must navigate how legislative decisions impact their clients and their own practice. In this episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy discuss the Trump administration’s influence on mental health care, the importance of accurate information and advocacy, and strategies for balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities.What do therapists need to know about political changes in healthcare? The Trump administration’s policies and their impact on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid. The role of therapists in ensuring clients receive accurate healthcare information. How legislative decisions affect funding for mental health services. Why advocacy and political awareness are essential for protecting mental health access. The ethical considerations of discussing politics with clients while maintaining professional boundaries. How Therapists Can Take Action to Protect Healthcare Access Educate yourself and your clients on state-specific programs and available resources. Provide information in your practice on how clients can contact their legislators. Spend 15 minutes a day making calls to representatives to advocate for mental health care. Encourage, but don’t pressure, clients to take action in ways that align with their own values. Share neutral, fact-based sources to help clients stay informed without unnecessary anxiety. The Emotional Toll of Advocacy and How to Manage It Navigating personal feelings while supporting clients through political uncertainty. Avoiding doom-scrolling and setting boundaries around media consumption. Finding support within the therapist community to prevent burnout. Understanding personal capacity and choosing advocacy efforts that are sustainable. The Role of Therapists in Community Support Helping clients feel empowered rather than helpless in the face of policy changes. Creating space in sessions for conversations about uncertainty and anxiety related to healthcare access. Challenging therapists to step outside their comfort zone and take meaningful action. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

When Your Client Dies By Suicide: An interview with Dr. Nina GutinCurt and Katie chat with Nina J. Gutin, Ph.D. about to discuss the emotional, professional, and systemic impact of client suicide on clinicians. We break down the common reactions of guilt and blame, highlight the importance of postvention support, and explore strategies to navigate grief and maintain clinical confidence.Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode, we talk about the impact of client suicide on cliniciansLosing a client to suicide is a devastating and often isolating experience for mental health professionals. We asked suicide expert, Dr. Nina Gutin to join us to talk about how therapists can take care of themselves when they have a client die by suicide.What do therapists need to know about client suicide and its impact on clinicians? The stigma and self-blame clinicians often experience after losing a client. The importance of using “died by suicide” instead of stigmatizing language. Statistics on clinician loss: One in five mental health professionals—and up to one in two psychiatrists—will experience a client suicide. The need for postvention protocols and structured support in mental health workplaces. How reducing caseloads and fostering support networks can help mitigate the long-term professional impact. Processing Guilt and Self-Blame After a Client Suicide How hindsight bias can make clinicians feel responsible for a client’s death. Shifting from guilt to remorse or regret as a healthier perspective. The fear of legal repercussions and how to navigate it after a client suicide. Best practices for reaching out to a client’s family with compassion and professionalism. The Professional and Emotional Toll of Client Suicide on Therapists How losing a client to suicide can shake a clinician’s confidence and clinical identity. The importance of workplace support and structured postvention after a client death. Why systemic change is necessary to ensure therapists receive the help they need. Resources and Support for Clinicians The Coalition of Clinician Survivors – A support network offering: A listserv for peer support. A bibliography of research and clinical resources. Postvention protocols to guide clinicians and organizations. Dr. Nina Gutin’s email – For clinicians seeking consultation (nguten@earthlink.net). Breaking the Stigma and Advocating for Systemic Support How the stigma around suicide impacts both clients and clinicians. The need for better suicide prevention and postvention training in clinical programs. How organizations can prepare for and respond to client suicides to support their clinicians effectively. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/ 

Stop Wasting Your Time on Awareness CampaignsCurt and Katie chat about the limitations of performative awareness campaigns and the need for action-oriented advocacy. Inspired by the article Stop Raising Awareness Already by Ann Christiano and Annie Niemand, they critique viral campaigns like Kony 2012 and the CDC’s zombie apocalypse campaign, highlighting the importance of targeting the right audiences, crafting compelling messages, and developing a theory of change. Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!In this podcast episode we talk about the limitations of awareness campaignsCurt and Katie talk about what to do instead of focusing precious time, energy, and resources on advocacy that is solely about awareness. We look at what has worked in the past and how to implement that now.Why Awareness Alone Isn’t Enough Performative awareness (social media posts, profile filters) often doesn’t lead to real change. Examples of failed awareness campaigns: Kony 2012: Viral but lacked sustainable action. CDC’s zombie apocalypse: Popular but ineffective at promoting emergency preparedness. HPV vaccine campaign: Faced backlash due to misinterpretation of its message. Some awareness efforts even create harmful counter-movements (e.g., “All Lives Matter” in response to BLM). The Importance of Targeted Advocacy Broad awareness campaigns often miss key decision-makers—advocacy should focus on specific audiences. Examples of effective advocacy efforts: Lobbying for minors' rights to amend therapy records. Medicare reform efforts for mental health providers. California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) educating legislators about MFTs. Developing a Theory of Change Advocacy needs clear goals and strategic planning. The story of Rosa Parks demonstrates effective timing and targeting in advocacy. Successful campaigns require repetition, patience, and clear calls to action. Practical Steps for Effective Advocacy:·      Move beyond awareness—advocate for policy changes, funding, and direct action.·      Target specific audiences (lawmakers, healthcare providers, educators).·      Craft messages that resonate—ensure they lead to measurable change.·      Develop a theory of change—plan advocacy efforts with long-term impact in mind.Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimaginedModern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/