

Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes
Counselors, coaches and sober companions help hundreds of thousands of people affected by Addictions and Mental Health issues each year. Learn about the current research and practical counseling tools to improve your skills and provide the best possible services. Counselor Toolbox targets counselors, coaches and companions, but can also provide useful counseling self-help tools for persons struggling with these issues and their loved ones. AllCEUs is an approved counseling continuing education provider for addiction and mental health counselors in most states. Counseling CEUs are available for each episode.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 5, 2024 • 1h 1min
1002-Diagnosis of Personality Disorders A Trauma Informed Approach
Overview of Personality Disorders
Definition:
Key Features:
Inflexible and Pervasive Behavior: Present across various contexts.
Early Onset: Behavior is stable and typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood.
Exclusion Criteria: Must rule out other mental disorders, medical conditions, or substance use as primary causes.
Common Diagnostic Challenges
Overlap with Other Disorders:
Trauma Considerations: .
Specific Personality Disorders and Trauma-Informed Perspectives
Paranoid Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "SUSPECT" - Suspiciousness, unforgiving, perceives attacks, etc.
Trauma Link: May develop from environments with distrust or betrayal.
Schizoid Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "DISTANT" - Detached, indifferent to praise/criticism, tasks done solitarily, etc.
Trauma Link: Chronic exposure to trauma may lead to emotional numbing and detachment.
Schizotypal Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "ME PECULIAR" - Magical thinking, eccentric behavior, anxiety in social situations, etc.
Trauma Link: Development of odd beliefs or behaviors may stem from a need to cope with a traumatic environment.
Avoidant Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "CRINGES" - Certainty of being liked, rejection preoccupies thoughts, intimacy restrained, etc.
Trauma Link: Likely related to experiences of rejection or abandonment, leading to extreme caution in relationships.
Dependent Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "RELIANCE" - Reassurance required, expressing disagreement difficult, life responsibilities assumed by others, etc.
Trauma Link: Often linked to enmeshed or controlling family environments, where independence was discouraged.
Antisocial Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "CORRUPT" - Conformity to law lacking, obligations ignored, reckless, etc.
Trauma Link: May develop from a criminogenic environment or chronic trauma leading to a disregard for societal norms.
Borderline Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "AM SUICIDE" - Abandonment fears, mood instability, suicidal behaviors, etc.
Trauma Link: Strongly associated with early abandonment or chaotic environments.
Histrionic Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "PRAISE ME" - Provocative behavior, relationships considered more intimate than they are, uncomfortable not being center of attention, etc.
Trauma Link: May develop as a way to gain attention in emotionally neglectful environments.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "SPECIAL" - Believes they are special, preoccupied with fantasies of success, lacks empathy, etc.
Trauma Link: Possible development as a defense mechanism in response to trauma or low self-esteem.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder:
Mnemonic: "LAW FIRMS" - Loses point of activity due to detail, friendships excluded due to work, inflexible, etc.
Trauma Link: Rigidity and control may arise from environments where safety and predictability were lacking.
Differential Diagnosis and Considerations
Rule Out Other Disorders:
Mood disorders with psychotic features.
Autism spectrum disorders.
Substance use disorders.
Importance of Context:
Acculturation and Intergenerational Trauma:
Treatment and Systemic Considerations
Personality Disorder Stigma:
Trauma-Informed Care:
Treatment Barriers:
Chapters:00:00:00 - Differential Diagnosis of Personality Disorders from a Trauma-Informed Perspective00:06:56 - Characteristics of Paranoid Personality Disorder00:13:38 - Trauma's effect on mood and libido00:20:22 - Unusual Perceptions and Magical Thinking00:27:13 - Characteristics of Dependent Personality Disorder00:33:59 - Borderline Personality Characteristics00:40:54 - Differential Diagnosis and Co-occurring Disorders00:47:27 - Differential Diagnosis of Personality Disorders00:54:12 - Differentiating Personality Disorders from Other Conditions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 3, 2024 • 40min
1001-How Endurance can Improve Your Marriage _ Pastoral Counseling Series
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes, a presenter on developing endurance in marriage through biblical principles, shares insights on navigating both good and bad times in relationships. She emphasizes that endurance is key to overcoming challenges and personal growth. Through biblical examples, listeners learn how figures like Noah and Joseph faced hardships with resilience. The conversation also covers the significance of communication, empathy, and recognizing small successes as vital tools for reconnecting and strengthening marital bonds.

Aug 29, 2024 • 48min
1000-Secrets of Effective Treatment Planning & Reassessment
Explore the essential elements of effective treatment planning and reassessment in clinical practice. Discover how integrative summaries can bridge symptoms to diagnoses, while standardized tools like FARS and CANS enhance client engagement and track progress. Learn the key components of reassessing patient status, which helps in adjusting care plans to address new challenges. The discussion emphasizes collaboration between clinician and client, fostering a more dynamic and effective treatment journey.

Aug 27, 2024 • 1h 2min
980-Revealing the Influence of the Past on Relationship Skills
Delve into how past relationships shape our current dynamics, especially through primary attachments. Discover signs of relationship insecurities, such as trust issues and constant need for reassurance. Explore the emotional baggage that affects new connections and the impact of idealizing previous partners. Learn about practical interventions like relationship inventories and mindfulness activities to heal and enhance communication. This insightful discussion encourages self-reflection and underscores the importance of understanding and forgiveness in fostering healthy bonds.

Aug 22, 2024 • 51min
999-Understanding Triggers and Cravings: Counselor Education Webinar
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes, a seasoned counselor, dives deep into understanding triggers and cravings. She explains how external stimuli like smells, sights, or even people can initiate powerful responses linked to survival. The discussion emphasizes recognizing personal triggers and examining emotional states to manage cravings effectively. Strategies for enhancing well-being through mindfulness, creating supportive environments, and establishing healthy boundaries are also highlighted. A unique comparison between temper tantrums and adult cravings rounds out the conversation, shedding light on managing impulsive desires.

Aug 20, 2024 • 57min
998-Improve Your Listening Skills: Breaking the Cycle of Defensiveness
Dive into the nuances of defensiveness in communication. Discover how past experiences and low self-esteem can trigger defensive responses. Learn strategies to create a safe emotional environment for effective listening. Explore the importance of separating criticism from personal worth and navigating feedback with empathy. Understand how setting boundaries and enhancing self-esteem can lead to healthier interactions. Finally, gain practical tools to foster constructive dialogue and reduce misunderstandings.

11 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 40min
997-Overcoming Toxic Guilt & Shame with CBT Techniques
Explore the stark contrast between healthy and toxic guilt, and discover how healthy guilt can inspire positive change. Uncover the detrimental effects of toxic guilt and understand its roots in societal expectations. Learn practical strategies to break free from guilt, including setting healthy boundaries and differentiating between internal values and external pressures. This enlightening discussion aims to empower listeners to reclaim their self-worth and embrace self-compassion.

Aug 13, 2024 • 41min
996-Unlocking Recovery: Exploring Models and Theories of Addiction
#### Introduction- Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes- Topic: Theories of addiction and co-occurring disorders- Focus on understanding and addressing co-occurring disorders in addiction treatment#### Co-Occurring Disorders- Expectation rather than the exception in addiction treatment- Importance of addressing co-occurring symptoms to prevent relapse- Symptoms can include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders#### Theories of Addiction1. **Moral Theory** - Addiction seen as a moral weakness - Treatment focused on willpower and virtuous lifestyle - Largely outdated2. **Disease Theory** - Addiction as a chronic, incurable, and progressive disease - Genetic and biological factors play a significant role - Focus on physiological deficits and neurotransmitter imbalances3. **Social Learning Theory** - Addiction learned through observation and vicarious reinforcement - Influence of family, peers, and media on addictive behaviors4. **Cognitive-Behavioral Theory** - Irrational thoughts and cognitive distortions lead to addiction - Addressing negative thinking patterns is crucial for recovery5. **Self-Medication Hypothesis** - Addiction as a way to cope with distress and emotional pain - Individuals use substances or behaviors to manage unbearable feelings6. **Biopsychosocial Model** - Comprehensive approach combining biological, psychological, and social factors - Recognizes the interplay of various elements in the development of addiction#### Key Symptoms in Early Recovery- Depression: Hopelessness, low energy, guilt, suicidal ideation- Anxiety: Increased worry, irritability, restlessness- PTSD: Emotional dysregulation, hypervigilance, avoidance- Personality Disorders: Unstable self-image, interpersonal functioning deficits#### Importance of Comprehensive Treatment- Addressing all aspects of a person's life for effective recovery- Combining different treatment models for a holistic approach### Time Codes for Major Points00:00 Introduction and overview of addiction and co-occurring disorders02:30 Co-occurring disorders are the expectation, not the exception05:15 Symptoms in early recovery: Depression, anxiety, PTSD10:45 Theories of addiction: Moral theory, disease theory15:00 Social learning theory and socio-cultural factors20:30 Cognitive-behavioral theory and cognitive distortions25:45 Self-medication hypothesis and distress management30:00 Biopsychosocial model and comprehensive treatment approach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 8, 2024 • 49min
995-Transforming Schema That Cause Anxiety & Depression with Counseling
**Summary: How Schema Affect Anxiety and Depression by Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes**[Watch the video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8SL2ZbWVFE)**Outline Summary:**1. **Introduction** - Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes - Topic: How Schema Affect Anxiety and Depression - Objectives: Define schema, explain formation, discuss inaccuracies, and identify strategies to address unhelpful schema2. **Understanding Schema** - Definition: Mental representations or beliefs about people or events - Examples: Traffic lights, doctor visits, job interviews, news media, flu season, stock market - Function: Help anticipate and interpret future situations3. **Formation of Schema** - Based on interpretation and memories of experiences - Influenced by age, prior experiences, cognitive development, and metacognition - Example: Childhood experiences with a teacher or parent4. **General Categories of Schema** - **Security and Abandonment**: Safety in relationships and self-worth - **Trust and Safety**: General trustworthiness of others - **Emotional Support vs. Deprivation**: Support in managing emotions - **Self-Determination**: Control over life and vulnerability - **Positivity vs. Negativity**: Optimism vs. pessimism - **Acceptance vs. Hypercriticalness**: Self-acceptance vs. self-criticism - **Competence vs. Defectiveness**: Capability vs. feeling broken - **Independence vs. Dependence**: Reliance on others - **Belongingness vs. Alienation**: Sense of fitting in vs. rejection5. **Impact of Schema on Anxiety and Depression** - Negative schema lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and anxiety - Positive schema promote feelings of safety, empowerment, and self-worth6. **Adjusting Outdated or Inaccurate Schema** - Schema may be outdated or based on inaccurate interpretations - Recognize and update schema based on current facts and experiences - Example: Adjusting schema about medical conditions like cancer or HIV7. **Strategies to Address Unhelpful Schema** - **Identify and Evaluate Current Schema**: Understand thoughts contributing to distress - **Address Cognitive Distortions**: Overgeneralization and personalization - **Explore Schema with Fresh Eyes**: Re-evaluate old situations - **Schema Restructuring**: Develop new, healthier schema - **Notice and Focus on Positives**: Encourage a balanced view8. **Practical Application** - Consistency and predictability in caregiving - Emotional and cognitive responsiveness - Acceptance, attention, and validation - Safety and support in solution generation**Time Codes for Major Points:**0:00 Introduction by Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes2:45 Understanding Schema7:30 Formation of Schema15:20 General Categories of Schema23:40 Impact of Schema on Anxiety and Depression33:10 Adjusting Outdated or Inaccurate Schema41:50 Strategies to Address Unhelpful Schema54:30 Practical ApplicationFeel free to ask if you need further details or a more in-depth explanation on any part of the video! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 6, 2024 • 53min
994-Discover How Brain Chemicals Influence Addiction Recovery and PAWS
**Summary: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) by Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes**[Watch the video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEDayQBJXkA)**Outline Summary:**1. **Introduction** - Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes - Topic: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) - Objectives: Understand PAWS, its causes, and coping strategies2. **What is PAWS?** - Definition: PAWS stands for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome - Affects people who have engaged in addictive behaviors - Results from brain changes due to substance use - Duration: Can last up to a year or more after acute withdrawal3. **Factors Influencing PAWS** - **Substance Use History**: Length and intensity of substance use - **Age of Onset**: Younger users have more significant brain changes - **Gender Differences**: Affects men and women differently - **Physical and Mental Health**: Poor health and underlying mental issues exacerbate PAWS4. **Causes of PAWS Symptoms** - Memories of substance use trigger cravings and irritability - Neurochemical changes: Altered dopamine, glutamate, and monoamine oxidase levels - Detoxification effects: Opposite symptoms during detox compared to substance use5. **Common Symptoms of PAWS** - Emotional outbursts or lack of emotion - Anxiety, irritability, depression, and anhedonia - Difficulty dealing with stress and fatigue - Sleep disturbances and strange dreams - Cognitive impairments: Memory problems, difficulty making decisions6. **Coping Strategies for PAWS** - **Meditation and Breathing**: Helps modulate HPA axis response - **Support Systems**: Engage sober social supports - **Exercise**: Improves stress tolerance and brain health - **Sleep Hygiene**: Ensure regular sleep patterns and quality sleep - **Awareness and Mindfulness**: Regular check-ins on emotional and physical state - **Pleasurable Activities**: Increase dopamine and other positive neurochemicals - **Healthy Eating**: Provide the body with necessary nutrients - **Relaxation Techniques**: Promote secretion of calming neurochemicals like GABA7. **Long-term Recovery and PAWS Management** - Expect PAWS symptoms for at least the first year - Integrate recovery with stress minimization - Gradual rebalancing of brain neurotransmitters - Maintain a plan for handling PAWS symptoms**Time Codes for Major Points:**0:00 Introduction by Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes2:30 What is PAWS?7:15 Factors Influencing PAWS12:00 Causes of PAWS Symptoms20:00 Common Symptoms of PAWS27:45 Coping Strategies for PAWS40:00 Long-term Recovery and PAWS ManagementFeel free to ask if you need further details or a more in-depth explanation on any part of the video! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


