boy meets therapy

Struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep? Wondering if melatonin, sleep hygiene, or therapy actually work? In this episode, sleep therapist Tony Ho joins us to unpack the most common sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea, and what you can do to finally get quality rest. Tony breaks down the science of sleep, the psychological blocks that keep people awake, and why trying to "control" sleep can backfire. We explore the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), the real deal with melatonin supplements, and how cultural beliefs about productivity and rest shape our sleep habits. Tony also shares his personal sleep routine and practical tools you can start using tonight. Whether you're dealing with chronic insomnia, poor sleep quality, or just want to understand your sleep better, this episode offers expert insight and actionable strategies. Connect with Tony Ho Instagram: ⁠@quadrawellness⁠ TikTok: ⁠@quadrawellness⁠ Therapy (Canada): ⁠www.quadrawellness.com/⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠boymeetstherapy.com⁠ Episode Guide & Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Calming Voices 01:32 Journey into Sleep Therapy 04:22 Understanding Insomnia and Sleep Struggles 05:22 The Importance of Predictability in Sleep 06:56 Understanding Sleep Disorders 09:50 Exploring Insomnia and Its Treatments 12:46 Debunking Sleep Myths and Misconceptions 15:51 The Role of Blue Light and Sleep Hygiene 17:12 Melatonin: Benefits and Misunderstandings 20:25 The Psychology of Sleep and Relaxation 23:03 Rebuilding Trust with Sleep 26:48 Understanding Sleep and Its Impact 30:03 Cultural Influences on Sleep 35:53 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia 42:10 Personal Sleep Routines and Insights Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver

In this episode, host Dustin sits down with therapist Lauren Larkin to unpack the complex relationship between disordered eating, diet culture, and mental health. Together, they explore how societal pressures, personal history, and media influence body image and eating behaviors, especially in the age of social media and virtual therapy. Lauren shares her journey from a career in media to becoming a clinician, offering insights into how her background shapes her approach to treating eating disorders. The conversation also touches on the challenges of remote therapy, the importance of curiosity in the healing process, and how therapists can create safe, supportive environments for recovery. If you're navigating disordered eating, interested in the intersection of media and mental health, or curious about therapy in the digital era, this episode is for you. Connect with Lauren Larkin: Instagram: ⁠@leltherapy⁠ TikTok: ⁠@leltherapy⁠ Website: ⁠www.leltherapy.com⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠boymeetstherapy.com⁠ Episode Guide & Chapters 00:00 Welcome to New York: First Impressions 02:07 Journey from Media to Therapy 05:01 Understanding Eating Disorders vs. Disordered Eating 09:00 The Impact of Diet Culture on Men 12:01 The Dangers of Social Media and Body Image 14:54 Treatment Approaches and Personal Experiences 20:13 Integrating Recovery into Daily Life 21:18 Navigating the Healing Journey 24:41 Understanding Eating Disorders and Therapy 28:07 The Impact of Food Noise on Mental Health 31:50 Uncovering Deeper Issues in Therapy 35:05 Coping Mechanisms and Client Engagement 38:57 Inspiration and Personal Growth Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver

In this engaging conversation, Brian Spitulnik, a licensed therapist and former Broadway performer, shares his journey from the stage to helping gay men navigate shame and identity. He discusses how internalized homophobia manifests in relationships and friendships, often leading to self-sabotage. Brian emphasizes the significance of tailored therapy, group dynamics, and the impact of social hierarchies within the gay community. Their dialogue also touches on vulnerability as a path to authenticity and belonging, shedding light on the unique challenges queer individuals face.

In this episode, Dustin Oliver sits down with Karley, a therapist who specializes in treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and co-occurring substance use disorders. Together, they explore the complex relationship between emotional dysregulation, trauma, and addiction, highlighting how Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers hope and structure for individuals navigating these challenges. Karley shares her journey into the counseling field, the realities of working with high-acuity clients, and the importance of compassion and boundaries in clinical work. This conversation offers valuable insights for therapists, students, and anyone curious about the inner world of BPD, the path to recovery, and how therapy can help rebuild lives. Connect with Karley Chickness ⁠https://systemstherapy.org/⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠boymeetstherapy.com⁠ Episode Guide & Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Borderline Personality Disorder 03:02 Karley's Background and Journey into Counseling 05:55 Early Career Experiences and Specializations 08:35 Understanding Substance Use and Co-occurring Conditions 11:26 The Role of Trauma in Mental Health 14:17 Defining Borderline Personality Disorder 17:24 Dialectical Behavior Therapy Explained 20:17 The Impact of Trauma on BPD 22:35 Emotional Dysregulation in BPD 23:34 Understanding Emotional Intensity in BPD 26:15 The Role of DBT in Treatment 29:36 Modeling Secure Relationships 34:25 Active Passivity and Communication Challenges 35:05 Substance Use and BPD Treatment 38:47 Assessing Risks and Treatment Approaches 42:30 Internal Experience of BPD 44:37 Challenges in Treating BPD 47:15 Success Stories in BPD Recovery 50:06 Reflections on Being a Therapist Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver

In this conversation, Dustin Oliver and Sara discuss the intricacies of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), anxiety management, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). Sara shares her personal journey into therapy, the challenges and rewards of working with individuals with BPD, and the importance of understanding emotional regulation. They explore the techniques used in DBT, including distress tolerance and mindfulness, and emphasize the need for compassion and acceptance in therapeutic relationships. The discussion also highlights the misconceptions surrounding BPD and offers advice for friends and family members of those affected. Connect with Sara Weand: ⁠www.saraweandlpc.com/⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠⁠⁠boymeetstherapy.com⁠ Episode Guide & Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Therapy and Personal Journey 09:37 Understanding Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) 19:23 Anxiety and DBT Techniques 24:45 Practical Techniques for Calming Anxiety 26:59 Understanding Panic and Distress Tolerance 29:26 Self-Awareness in Anxiety Management 31:03 The Role of Trauma in Anxiety 34:59 The Purpose of Emotions and Anxiety 36:54 Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) 42:47 Advice for Friends and Family of BPD Individuals 45:48 Hope and Recovery from BPD Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver

In this eye-opening conversation, host Dustin Oliver speaks with Dr. Eric Van Der Voort, a licensed psychologist and certified sex therapist, about the many misconceptions and complexities surrounding human sexuality. They explore how performance anxiety can disrupt intimacy, the importance of open communication in sexual relationships, and the ways societal norms shape, and often distort, our expectations around sex. Dr. Van Der Voort offers a non-pathologizing approach to sexual behavior, distinguishing between sexual behaviors and addiction while encouraging a more compassionate understanding of kinks, fantasies, and the obsession with orgasm. He emphasizes the need to challenge internalized shame, redefine what “good sex” really means, and foster deeper connection through vulnerability and honest conversation. Whether you’re a clinician, someone exploring your own sexuality, or simply curious, this episode offers practical insights and thoughtful reflections to support healthier, more fulfilling sexual relationships. Connect with Dr. van der Voort: ⁠Therapy⁠ ⁠Website⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠⁠⁠boymeetstherapy.com⁠ Episode Guide & Chapters:  00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection 02:07 Exploring Clinical Work and Background 09:00 Transition to Sex Therapy 11:00 Understanding Sexuality and Addiction 17:27 Societal Attitudes Towards Sex 18:52 Performance Anxiety in Sexual Relationships 26:25 Navigating Sexual Performance Issues 31:16 The Importance of Open Communication in Sexual Relationships 32:09 Understanding Performance Anxiety and Its Impact 34:57 Challenging Societal Norms Around Sex 38:29 Redefining What Good Sex Means 42:56 The Obsession with Orgasm in Sexual Encounters 46:36 Navigating Kinks and Overcoming Shame 52:28 Fantasy vs. Reality in Sexual Desires 54:31 Key Takeaways for Healthy Sexual Practices Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver

In this episode, hosts Dustin Oliver and Ryan Austin, a licensed professional counselor, dive deep into the world of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Together, they explore how IFS helps individuals understand their inner parts, navigate emotional trauma, and reconnect with their core Self-energy for lasting healing. Ryan shares insights from his clinical work, including his experience with accountability courts, and discusses how childhood patterns, coping mechanisms, and numbing behaviors like addiction impact adult relationships and mental health. The conversation also touches on the privilege of setting boundaries, cultural views of therapy, and the critical role of trust in the therapeutic process. Whether you're a therapist, someone in therapy, or curious about how IFS can help you heal, this episode offers a thoughtful, accessible introduction to one of today’s most transformative therapeutic modalities. Connect with Ryan Austin: ⁠Ryan Austin Therapy⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠⁠boymeetstherapy.com⁠ Episode Guide & Chapters:  00:00 Introduction and Name Struggles 01:49 Ryan's Journey as a Licensed Professional Counselor 05:22 Understanding Accountability Court 10:04 Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy 17:23 The Deeper Meaning of Therapy and Self-Care 22:46 Navigating Financial Fears and Self-Validation 24:32 The Impact of Cultural Perspectives on Therapy 26:13 The Privilege of Setting Boundaries 28:21 The Importance of Therapeutic Relationships 30:29 Understanding Core Self-Energy 36:05 Using IFS to Treat Trauma 40:25 Patterns from Childhood and Relationship Dynamics 45:28 Breaking Patterns: The Journey of Self-Discovery 51:06 Numbing and Addiction: Coping Mechanisms Explored 56:24 Listening to Our Parts: A Path to Self-Understanding 01:00:14 The Importance of Trust in Therapy 01:05:32 Sitting in the Slow: Embracing the Journey Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver

In this episode, Dustin Oliver sits down with counseling graduate student Bailey McFadden to talk about the real-life journey through psychology education—from undergrad to grad school and beyond. They discuss why they both chose to pursue master’s degrees over PhDs, how to evaluate faith-integrated counseling programs, and what it’s really like working in internship settings. Bailey shares her experiences navigating clinical training, community support, and the pressure to “do it all” in grad school. Whether you're exploring mental health careers, considering a graduate degree, or already deep in your training, this candid conversation offers insight, encouragement, and practical advice. Connect with Bailey McFadden: Instagram: ⁠@genzcounselorb⁠ TikTok: ⁠@genzcounselorb⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠ Website with Free Resources: boymeetstherapy.com Episode Guide & Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:07 Undergraduate Experience in Psychology 06:04 Transitioning to Graduate School 09:01 Working in a Psychiatric Unit 12:09 Advice for Aspiring Psychologists 15:11 Study Abroad Experiences 17:47 Choosing a Graduate Program 20:51 Faith Integration in Counseling 24:05 The Role of Spirituality in Therapy 28:00 Navigating Faith Integration in Counseling Programs 29:51 The PhD Dilemma: To Pursue or Not? 35:48 Internship Insights: What to Expect 43:55 Finding Support and Community in Grad School   Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver.

In this episode, host Dustin Oliver sits down with child and adolescent therapist Chandler Donny to explore the unique challenges and breakthroughs in therapy with young clients. They dive into topics like OCD in children, the emotional impact of divorce, and how to build trust with resistant or withdrawn kids. Chandler shares clinical insights on the importance of confidentiality, psychoeducation, and engaging parents in the therapeutic process. The conversation also touches on Relational Cultural Theory, LGBTQ-affirming care, and the role of cultural understanding in effective mental health treatment. Whether you're a therapist, parent, or mental health professional, this episode offers valuable guidance on navigating the complex world of child and teen therapy. Each week, we talk with clinicians about their areas of expertise, their connections to therapy, and how they use their tools in session. Connect with Chandler Donny: ⁠Therapy⁠ Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠ TikTok: ⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠ Website with Free Resources: boymeetstherapy.com Episode Guide & Chapters: Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Connection 01:46 Chandler's Journey into Therapy 07:28 Specialization in Working with Teens 09:40 Common Issues in Child Therapy 10:32 Navigating Divorce and Its Impact on Children 11:50 Integrating Parents in Child Therapy 17:01 Confidentiality and Trust in Therapy 19:57 Building Rapport with Resistant Clients 23:18 Understanding Relational Cultural Theory 30:40 Exploring Client Relationships and Dynamics 37:41 Navigating Childhood Therapy and Accountability 42:54 Understanding OCD in Children 49:20 The Importance of the Therapeutic Relationship Created and Produced by Dustin Oliver.

What if recovery wasn’t just about stopping the use of a substance — but about understanding why it was there in the first place? In this episode, I speak with Julie River, LPC, NCC, clinical director and therapist at ⁠Atlas Behavioral Health⁠, about what truly person-centered substance use treatment can look like. We explore the daily experience of clients in recovery programs, the role of group therapy, and how therapists can support emotional sobriety, boundary-setting, and harm reduction with empathy and nuance. Whether you’re a clinician, student, or someone navigating their own healing journey, Julie brings thoughtful insight into how treatment can move beyond stereotypes — and toward connection, curiosity, and lasting change. Each week we talk with clinicians about their areas of expertise, their connections to therapy, and how they use their tools in session. Connect with Julie River: Therapy Atlas Behavioral Health Connect with boy meets therapy: Instagram: ⁠⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠@boymeetstherapy⁠ Website with Free Resources: ⁠boymeetstherapy.com Episode Guide & Chapters:  00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 02:59 Understanding Substance Use Disorder Treatment 05:51 Daily Life in Treatment Programs 09:08 Innovative Therapeutic Approaches 12:04 Client Reactions to Alternative Therapies 14:53 Co-occurring Disorders and Their Impact 17:46 The Complexity of Diagnosing Disorders 20:58 Interpersonal Dynamics in Group Therapy 23:53 Managing Resentments and Emotions 26:53 Facilitating Group Interactions 30:06 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 35:45 Understanding Boundaries in Relationships 40:10 The Concept of Emotional Sobriety 45:05 Navigating Sober Curiosity 49:49 The Spectrum of Addiction 54:26 Harm Reduction in Substance Use Treatment 58:24 The Misconceptions of Addiction Treatment