The Intentional Clinician: Psychology, Philosophy, Therapy, & Change

Humanizing the Voices of our Times with Cameron Blake [Episode 39]

Paul Krauss MA LPC sits down with singer-songwriter Cameron Blake to discuss songwriting in a way that humanizes the voices and stories of the times we live in. Cameron and Paul discuss the universal appeal of music in our lives and how it can open us to new experiences and perspectives if allow our hearts to truly listen. Paul discusses his experiences hearing Cameron Blake perform his new album live in 2019 and how some of the stories that were told brought up both existential and emotional reactions. Cameron shares the story of his life in music as well as his composition of his new album, which was written during a week at a silent retreat and is rich with honest and raw human stories. Cameron shares about his writing process and lyrics and what inspires his writing. Many songs are also shared. If you like music and philosophy, you will love this episode!

Also Discussed: Saying things through art that you might not say from a podium, personal and collective inspiration for songwriting, feeling changed from music, writing from the perspective of a character, channeling emotions into songs, trauma, Woody Guthrie, Thomas Merton, silent retreat, not giving up your power, the recent Syrian conflict, talking about politics without polarizing people, Bob Dylan, humanizing stories and people, war, walking into the black, anesthetizing news, simple answers, complicated situations, the root of all war is fear, acceptance, Tolstoy, everyone wants to change the world but no one wants to change themselves, empathy, avoidance, reflection, Goya, learning violin, Michigan, Baltimore Maryland, folk tradition, music for the people, jazz musicians, classical musicians,——Greta Thunberg, reducing carbon emissions, the complicated issues of energy, changing perspectives, transformation, rebirth, climate change increasing global terrorism, Portugal, carpe diem, existential themes, six minutes and twenty seconds, Emma Gonzalez , Joan Baez, dissociation, little time to reflect, emotional maturity, Leonard Cohen, heavy metal, releasing a new album, using your voice, telling stories no matter where you are.

Michigan-born Cameron Blake is most passionate about engaging with the parts of us that are fragile and vulnerable. This is reflected most deeply in his songs, which have touched the hearts of people all over the world. Ranging from gospel-fired, high energy roots rock to introspective folk, Cameron’s music is as diverse as his personal story. He began composing and playing the violin at the age of twelve; a talent that would eventually culminate in a Master’s Degree from the Peabody Institute of Music in Baltimore. Compassion, curiosity and a fair share of burnout took him beyond the walls of the practice room and out on the street, where he regularly worked and communed with the poor. Sharing what he experienced was the starting point for a new career path as a singer-songwriter. He taught himself piano and guitar, quickly immersed himself in the Baltimore music scene and took his individual brand of chamber folk on the road.
After meeting the love of his life and moving back to Michigan to raise a family, Cameron’s artistry bloomed into full maturity with the release of Alone On The World Stage (2015). Recorded with nothing more than voice, guitar and occasional piano, the record garnered international acclaim for its subject matter; a heart-rending, poetic and poignant picture of the issues that face the world we live in today. His keen eye for detail and skill for getting inside of characters to reveal flesh and blood human lives continued with the release of Fear Not (2017); a lush, masterfully orchestrated album that tackles the complex subject of fear. The album has earned praise from the likes of The Huffington Post, No Depression and Paste in the US and was released throughout Europe on the Netherlands based record label Continental Song City in 2018.
If you’ve seen him before, you know that Cameron’s performances leave a lasting, emotional impact.  Whether it’s performing as a front man or a soloist, in a sold-out amphitheater or an intimate club, Cameron gives himself fully to his audience.  Described as “brilliant” (Baltimore City Paper), “impressive” (Local Spins) and “beautiful” (Washington Times), Cameron’s soulful baritone voice, powerful lyrics and physical presence make him one of Michigan’s most original and compelling live performers.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

 
Original Music:

”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL (Spotify)

Original Songs by Cameron Blake utilized in this episode:

After Sally from Fear Not (2017)
North Dakota from Alone on the World Stage (2015)
Queen Bee from Fear Not (2017)
How Dare You from the forthcoming album Walking Into the Black (2020)
Henny Penny from the forthcoming album Walking Into the Black (2020)
Wailing Wall from Fear Not (2017)
Fear Not from Fear Not (2017)
Sandtown from Fear Not (2017)

Check out Cameron Blake on Spotify

 

Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.

 

Beyond Trauma Recovery: The Awareness Integration Model with Dr. Foojan Zeine [Episode 38]

Beyond Trauma Recovery: The Awareness Integration Model with Dr. Foojan Zeine.

Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews Dr. Foojan Zeine about how she developed her therapy model, how a person recovers from trauma, her personal story, and a program that she developed out of many different modalities of therapy. Dr. Foojan Zeine discussed working on moving from a "problem-oriented" approach to a more "growth-based" approach in counseling.  Dr. Foojan Zeine and Paul Krauss discuss their experiences with conducting psychotherapy as well as reflecting on what they have seen work in trauma recovery and how to help a person move beyond trauma recovery to a total transformation. Dr. Foojan Zeine is working on bringing her therapy program into educational settings in a way where one can "do it yourself." Later on Dr. Foojan Zeine and Paul Krauss discuss how to go beyond trauma recovery and work on dismantling core beliefs that can hold people back even if they have healed from the initial trauma.

Also discussed: Dan Siegel Ph.D., Mindfulness in Schools, Proactive Emotional Education, Students going through self-help books in college as a class, Addiction, Hypnotherapy, Existential Issues, How do we live our life well?, Self-Reflection, the value of therapy/ counseling, the value of reflection, examining our shadow, agendas, the value of participation in a process, the effectiveness of counseling (according to research), Trauma Recovery, co-creating reality, changing our behaviors. 

Dr. Foojan Zeine, Psy.D., LMFT is a Radio host, International Speaker, Psychotherapist, Life Coach, and the Author of Life Reset – The Awareness Integration Path to Create the Life You Want. She has her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. She has a large private practice in Beverly Hills and San Clemente, California. Her expertise is in Intimate Relations and Addictive Behaviors. She has extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Traumas, and Domestic Violence.
Foojan is the originator and the author for “Awareness Integration” educational and psychological model, a multi-modality approach and intervention toward minimizing Depression, Anxiety while improving Self Esteem and Self Confidence.  Multiple research on this method has been published in international journals and has been presented at Harvard University.
Foojan presents internationally and is a leading expert in the field of Online Therapy, She is the Co- author of “Online Therapy: A Therapist's Guide to Expanding Your Practice”, published by W.W. Norton 2005.  She also has a chapter published titled “Life Coaching” in “A Practice that Works: Tips and Strategies for your Stand Alone Therapy Practice”, 2005.  She published an article titled “Moving Away, Moving Toward – Immigration & the Acculturation process” in “Family Therapy” Journal Jan/Feb 2008 pg.26-27. Foojan co-authored a psychological novel about intimate relationships and the self, name “MA”, 2014. Foojan is a contributor to YourTango.com, DivorceForce.com, yogajournal.com, Wholelife.com, Men’s Health, Psychology Today, Reader’s Digest, and The Huffington Post.
Foojan hosts the “Inner Voice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan” show in KMET 1490AM/ ABC News Radio as a call in consulting show where she interviews experts.  She is a guest speaker in many universities including Harvard, MIT, UCLA, USC, UC Santa Barbara, and Cal State Long Beach. She has been a guest on the Dr. Phil show in CBS, Fox, Voice of America Television Programs; KPFK 90.7, KIRN 670AM.
 www.foojan.com

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

 
Original Music:

”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“All Your Yeahs” from Thank Your Lucky Stars by Beach House

• Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.

 

Authentic Masculinity and the Second Half of Life with Adam Nash LLPC [Episode 37]

Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews Adam Nash MA LLPC about his own story of transition to adulthood as they discuss the difficulties of navigating the process of authenticity and understanding one’s own masculinity in the Western World. Adam and Paul discuss the work of Robert Bly, James Hillman, Richard Rohr, Carl Jung, and more regarding this important topic affecting males in the Western World. Paul and Adam talk about the cultural confusion surrounding the labels of “manhood” and the lack of mentorship among males. Paul and Adam discuss some of the pitfalls of males attempting to transition to adulthood without positive role models and guides. Paul and Adam talk about the ego and how important it is to tame the ego at some point in life, and how that relates to moving into the second half of life. Adam and Paul discuss the important work that men may dedicate themselves to in the second half of life—if they choose to. 

Also discussed: What does it mean to be a man? Postmodern issues related to masculinity. Confusing cultural messages for men. Rites of passage. Moving from childhood to adulthood. Looking for role models. How are men supposed to show up in relationships? Balancing the masculine and feminine. Over- Compensation. The importance and side effects of women filling in the gaps of the absent Father. Dealing with the Ego. Dealing with power and control. Breaking from the patterns of your mother and father. Working toward individuation. Getting stuck. How do we move out of stuckness? Going through difficult times. What can we learn from tough times both internally and externally? The importance of taking a risk in forming your identity. Breaking the mold of your culture. Moving from dualistic thinking to abstract thinking.

Adam Nash MA LLPC works with adult males and females as therapist in Middleville, MI. Adam specializes in Men's work currently utilizing a variety of counseling techniques.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

 Original Music:

”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“U (Man Like)" from i,i by Bon Iver  
 
• Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.
 

On Anxiety, Control, Change, and the Unpredictability of the Future [Episode 36]

Paul Krauss MA LPC shares his current thoughts on the concepts of anxiety, control, change, and the unpredictability of the Future. In this solo episode of the Intentional Clinician Podcast, Paul discusses the human experience and many practical ways to deal with anxiety, change, and unpredictability in life. Paul teaches about related global concepts as well as simple ways to work on thriving during unknown circumstances and unforeseen events. Paul talks about what to do when you are "free falling" and cannot imagine a future at all--and it feels as if "all will be lost." Paul gives some small pragmatic steps that a person can take, a few exercises that one can engage in to be able to tolerate ambiguity--especially when they are grappling with Anxiety, Control, Change, and the Unpredictability of the Future.

Also discussed: Existential Threats, Actual Threats, Narrative, Autonomic Nervous System, Perceptions, Stability, Instability, Multiple Solutions/ Not One, Dealing with Fear, the nature of life is Change, Impermanence, Smallness, The Big Picture, Awareness, The Taoist Story of "Maybe", Rushing to Judgement, Logic is a Coping Mechanism, Making up Stories, A Stance of Unknowing, Logistics, Attitude, 5 Self-Calming Strategies, Listening, Somatic Therapies, EMDR Therapy, Integrating your Emotional Experiences, How Memories Can Effect Our Behaviors, Participation in Therapy, Writing in a Journal, Self-Reflection, Response instead of a Reaction, Honesty, Saying the Truth, How Often We are Wrong, Our Judgemental Nature,  Mark Twain, Mental Health is an Active Process, Participation, Orientation, Music, The Release of a Free Album of Music by Paul (PAWL- Modified Demos 2010-2013). (Stay tuned to the end of the episode for a preview of songs from Modified Demos).

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

 

Original Music:


”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Nice to be in Love” from Modified Demos (2010-2013) by PAWL

“The Fifth” from Modified Demos (2010-2013) by PAWL

“The Cost” from Modified Demos (2010-2013) by PAWL

“Metropolis” from Modified Demos (2010-2013) by PAWL
 
• Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.

Science, Love, and Infinite Mind with Stephen G. Post, PhD [Episode 35]

Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews Stephen G. Post PhD about his life and work as both a leader in the field of science and participant in realm of spiritual seeking. Paul and Stephen also delve deep into exploring the hidden mystery of human connectedness in this podcast interview. God and Love on Route 80 is a recent book by Stephen G. Post where he tells the story of his life in terms of his search for meaning throughout his adolescence and into adulthood, as he listened to his dreams, pursued a spiritual life, and became an accomplished scientist. Stephen is a career scientist (he has contributed hundreds of scientific publications) and has demonstrated empirically that some of the great philosophies of giving to others and direct attention and love—stand up as best practices for patient care in the medical field among other findings. On the personal side, Stephen Post discusses how many chance meetings (synchronicities) shaped his personal life and career in huge ways. Stephen reflects that how his academic and scientific work led him to many unexpected places and eventually to heading multiple organizations including the institute for Bioethics at Stony Brook University—and how it led to a project with United Nations and some actual high profile threats. Stephen is a delight to speak with and listeners of all stripes should enjoy this interview which runs the gamut from personal narrative, to reflections on spirituality and philosophy, to discussions of scientific studies and publications, and much more.

Stephen G. Post, PhD, is the bestselling author of Why Good Things Happen to Good People: How to Live a Longer, Happier, Healthier Life by the Simple Act of Giving (Random House, 2008). The British Medical Journal designated his book, The Moral Challenge of Alzheimer Disease (Johns Hopkins University Press, 1995), a medical classic of the 20th century. Post is among a handful of individuals awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the national Alzheimer’s Association. In 2001 he founded the Institute for Research on Unlimited Love, which researches and distributes knowledge on kindness, giving, and spirituality. A frequent contributor to major magazines and newspapers including The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and Time Magazine, Post has appeared on The Daily Show among other national television programs. Post served as a co-chair of the United Nations Population Fund conference on spirituality and global transformation. He is a Professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Stony Brook University, and the founder and director of the Stony Brook Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care and Bioethics. A leader in medicine, research and religion, Dr. Post’s latest book is a meditation on the meaning of life and the importance of spirituality. Visit him online at StephenGPost.com and UnlimitedLoveInstitute.org.

Check here to buy the book “Love and God on Route 80”

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

 

Original Music:


”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Sister” from My Regime by Kelley Stoltz

“Leaf Off/ The Cave” from Vestiges & Claws by Jose Gonzalez
 
• Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association ( please join us). MMHCA is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.
 

How to Survive Teen Addiction (alcohol and drugs) with author Andrew Tennison [Episode 34]

Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews author Andrew Tennison who tells his real-life story about how he almost lost his son to addiction, how he coped, and how his son ultimately was able to overcome his addiction. In addition to telling his true story, Andrew Tennison is a consummate mental health professional and excellent author. He shares best practices for parents and families facing the challenges of dealing with addiction, as well as important facts and wisdom from his career. Andrew Tennison is the author of an excellent book which is part memoir and part educational manual for parents entitled: Killing the Bear: Surviving Teen Addiction.

On Killing the Bear: "Over the past fifty years, the face of addiction has changed in America–it has become much younger. It is estimated that 90% of serious problems with alcohol and drugs in our country begin between the ages of 12 and 20. Unfortunately, our efforts toward the prevention and treatment of alcohol and drug use by youth have not kept pace with this new reality. For parents who have found themselves dealing day to day with a teen caught in the grips of addiction, the gap between this new reality and the inadequate remedies is often overwhelming. Despite a successful career in the field of mental health, Andrew Tennison was one such parent. While he knew how to help children and teens who had suffered from abuse and neglect, he knew nothing about how to help his own son, Ian, as he slipped into the nether world of aggressive alcohol and drug use. Killing The Bear is his story about what it was like to be a parent of a teen struggling with addiction and what he did about it. Written for parents who are traveling a similar path or those who want to help such families, Killing The Bear provides both a personal account of living with teen addiction and practical ways of surviving it."

Click here to buy 'Killing the Bear' book.

Click here to Follow Killing the Bear Book and the Author on Facebook.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering distance consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube 

Original music:


”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Good Boy Young” [DEMO Version] from Motel by ttypes/ PAWL (available everywhere in 2020)

• Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association ( please join us). MMHCA is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.

 

UPDATE: Michigan Counselors Jobs are Saved. HB4325 Passes Unianmously. Listen to the Story.

In this special episode of the Intentional Clinician Podcast, Paul Krauss MA LPC reports on the developments in the state of Michigan which almost led to the job loss of 10,000+ Counselors and almost resulted in 300,000+ patients losing access to mental health care (when the Licensing and Regulatory Authority (LARA) of Michigan overrode the wishes of the entire Michigan Board of Counseling (who was ironically appointed by LARA to be the experts on the field of Counseling) and declared that it was changing a 31 year old rule for 'clarification purposes' among other doublespeak--which would have rendered LPCs unable to practice in the State of Michigan--even though LARA denied that fact...). This caused a rush of advocacy led by the Michigan Mental Health Association and other Counselors to pass a bill to update the rules for LARA, so that the changes would be negated. The bill was HB4325, sponsored by Representative Aaron Miller. The bill had been around for years and was waiting for this moment.

The good news is that the Michigan Legislature listened to the 5000+ counselors that formed a coalition with the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association--with both the House and Senate passing HB4325 unanimously. The bill is to be signed by the Governor of Michigan on Oct 29, 2019.

Paul Krauss MA LPC comments on the happenings in Michigan. NOTE: There is much more to be said on this subject than is in the episode. Paul then plays a series of recordings by Counselors involved in the fight to oppose LARA's arbitrary rule changes and to pass HB4325 in Michigan.

Featured Speakers for this Special Episode:

Members of the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association

Napoleon Harrington, LPC

LaNeisha Murphy, LPC

James Blundo, LPC

Actual Applause from when the Michigan Senate passed HB4325 Unanimously on October 17, 2019

Napoleon Harrington, LPC (part 2)

Dennille McIver LPC  

-------------------------------------

Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association ( please join us). MMHCA is working to increase the availability of quality mental health services statewide, increasing education, promoting best practices, and working to keep Licensed Professional Counselors and other professionals accessible by the public.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering distance consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

Original music:

”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Northern Sky” from Bryter Layter by Nick Drake

 

URGENT: Michigan moving to stop Counselors from practicing. Michigan to lay off 10,000 LPCs. est 250,000-300,000 patients to lose their counselors (ACTION NEEDED)

Get involved with the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association now, and read their detailed article on this issue facing LPCs and their patients in the state of Michigan.

 

YOU can help save 300,000+ patients from losing their counselors this year in the State of Michigan.

YOU can help save the jobs of over 10,000 LPCs and LLPCs in the State of Michigan.
All it takes is a few minutes submitting comments to Michigan's LARA (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs). If you are wanting to do more, please email and call the following addresses ( a sample letter is at the bottom of this page, or review the facts here and come up with your own statement.

 

Let's be clear, LARA's (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs) SUDDEN and URGENT move to change the rules that have been established since 1988, is not necessary, there is a House Bill 4325 that would update the 1988 bill and clear up any ambiguity in the language--but LARA is not waiting for that--they have called for a rushed hearing on Oct 4, 2019 to change the rules, which would nullify House Bill 4325 and the ability for LPCs to practice in the state of Michigan. LARA is attempting to push through an artificial restriction that would literally change the scope of practice that LPCs currently have--properly diagnosing and providing psychotherapy for over 30 years in the state of Michigan.

 

Submit Comments to this Email Address by October 4, 2019:

BPL-BoardSupport@Michigan.gov

 

or come hang out with LPCs for the day:

A hearing will be held on these proposed Rules on October 4, 2019 at 9 am at the G. Mennen Williams Building Auditorium, 525 W. Ottawa Street, Lansing, MI 48893.

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE PRESENT TO TESTIFY AGAINST THESE RULES!!!

Click here for a document on Action Steps LPCs and their Allies can take (lots of great details!!!)

 

A few points we would like to make clear:

1. If LARA's proposed rules go into effect before HB 4325 is signed by the governor, then LLPCs and LPCs will not be able to diagnose or use counseling techniques - it will be illegal for LLPCs and LPCs to diagnose and use counseling techniques.

 

1. This means LLPCs and LPCs will not be able to bill under someone else (as has been done in the past) because you will not be able to use counseling techniques (conduct mental health therapy).

 

1. If the legislature passes HB 4325 into law after LARA's proposed rules take effect it will nullify the rules.

 

2. If HB 4325 is signed by the governor (before LARA's proposed rules go into effect), then law will clearly define our scope of practice among other things (supervision, etc.), and LLPCs and LPCs will be able to practice mental health therapy in the same way they have for decades (since 1989). Passing HB 4325 will negate the need for LARA's rules.

 

3. Our focus now and over the coming weeks must be to influence legislators to move HB 4325 quickly to Governor Whitmer. Please be thoughtful/diplomatic about what you write on public sites. Stay focused on the goal of contacting legislators.

 

4. If at all possible, attend and speak at the public hearing on LARA's proposed rules on October 4th. This is imperative. We want a large volume of testimony on record. IF IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO BE PRESENT, PLEASE SEND WRITTEN TESTIMONY. Written comments must be submitted by 5:00 pm on October 4th to the following email: BPL-BoardSupport@Michigan.gov   Tell the Board of Professional Licensing how this will hurt your clients, and the financial/career crisis this will cause you and your business or the business you work for. The hearing is being held at the G. Mennen Williams Building Auditorium, 525 W. Ottawa St., Lansing, MI 48893 and starts at 9am.

 

5. Please join MMHCA - your memberships fund the essential lobbyist we have employed to help move HB 4325 through the system. MMHCA is the only organization funding a government relations professional who is working on HB 4325. Go to our mobile friendly website to donate and/or join. www.mmhca.org .

 

6. Use this living excel document to easily access legislators' contact information and action steps all in one place. Tremendous thanks to Benjamin Reisterer for creating and maintaining it. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1fkuYQciUwYXhj32iaK1e_75dFTxwYv1M2N8D8XssvAM/edit?usp=drivesdk&fbclid=IwAR1FCcxgdSz8XFOqJa4az0Lsuw837kPIBOas3i_U1wIibLzl3IJ0iI8bCUY

 

7. Read MMHCA's September newsletter for more information and to access important documents via links.

 

8. Many people still don't know about this dire situation. OUR ABILITY TO PRACTICE OUR PROFESSION IS AT STAKE! Tell every graduate student, LLPC and LPC you know about this information asap. Have them sign up to receive MMHCA emails like this one (go to mmhca.org/articles/and at the bottom of the September newsletter is a button to sign up to be on the mailing list).

 

9. Dr. Sara Sue Schaefer will be presenting on October 1, 2019, at the Kalamazoo YWCA in their lower multi-purpose room. This is a very important meeting to attend from 7:00pm to 8:30pm. The presentation will also be live streamed on the Facebook group Michigan LPCs for HB 4325 & Against LARA SOP Changes - Counselors & Allies.

 

   Dr. Sara Sue Schaefer has been instrumental in working on this issue for many years.     She will be presenting about what we can say and do at the hearing on October 4th to further our cause. The YWCA is located at 353 East Michigan in Kalamazoo.

10.MMHCA has a Facebook page you can follow as well. It's called Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association.

11.Please do the following (use the excel document link in #6 for contact information):

4325. Continue contacting Governor Whitmer and encourage support of HB 4325.

 

19. The Ways and Means committee meets about HB 4325 on Wednesday, 10/2/19. Contact the committee members about how urgent it is to pass the bill out of committee asap so it can move to the House of Representatives for a vote.

 

1. Contact Senate Majority leader Mike Shirkey via phone and email to respectfully request that he support HB 4325 and bring it to the Senate for a full vote as quickly as possible once the bill gets to the senate. Explain that HB 4325 does NOT expand LPCs' scope of practice, it only solidifies what we have already done for over three decades.

 

1. Contact the Speaker of the House Representative Lee Chatfield and urge him to put the bill up for a vote WITHOUT AMENDMENTS as soon as possible.

 

1. Keep the language simple when contacting legislators e.g. "HB 4325 puts into law what has been the practice for 30 years." Educate the senators about the current situation.

 

1. Letters to the editor and news coverage are great and noticed by legislators.

 

1. Remember - all the contact information you need is in the excel document here:

 

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1fkuYQciUwYXhj32iaK1e_75dFTxwYv1M2N8D8XssvAM/edit?usp=drivesdk&fbclid=IwAR1FCcxgdSz8XFOqJa4az0Lsuw837kPIBOas3i_U1wIibLzl3IJ0iI8bCUY

Keep up the outstanding advocacy for our license, our colleagues and our clients. It is an honor to be side by side with you in this effort.

 

James Blundo MMHCA Executive Director

Napoleon Harrington MMHCA President

MMHCA Public Policy Committee

Acuitas LLC, the MMHCA Retained Lobbyist

DONATE TO MMHCA

 

Next MMHCA Board Meeting

MMHCA Members are invited to attend the next MMHCA Board meeting on Friday, October 18th, at 10:00 am. Location is Ashland Theological Seminary in Southfield. Guest speaker includes Andrea Cascarilla from Acuitas LLC. Must RSVP to attend, contact jamesblundo@att.net.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

HB 4325 and LARA's Proposed Counseling Rule Changes

by

MMHCA Retained Lobbyist

Andrea Cascarilla

Legislative Director

What rules changes is LARA proposing?

The actual text of LARA's proposed rule changes may be found here. To be clear, some of the proposed rule changes are not contentious and make necessary and appropriate updates. Others related to R338.1751 and R338.1757 are a cause for serious concern.

First, LARA is recommending the repeal of virtually all the rules that define a licensed professional counselor's scope of practice under R338.1751. These are the current rules that have been recognized as part of a counselor's scope since they were first promulgated after the passage of the Licensed Professional Counselor statute in 1988. Instead the department insists these definitions should apply only to the educational preparation of counselors and not to counseling practice.

Second, LARA is also pursuing the repeal of the rules identifying the requirements for providing counseling supervision (R338.1757), one of which is specific training in supervision. This training is a national standard for professional counseling.

What would the impact of these changes be?

R338.1751:

Included in the repeal of the definitions in the rule is the practice of "counseling techniques" and the related ability to "diagnose and identify the problem". Without these and numerous other definitions, the counseling scope of practice will be severely restricted.

These changes in scope also put Michigan's LPCs in violation of the American Counseling Association's Code of Ethics (E.5.a. Proper Diagnosis), which requires the proper diagnosis of a client's mental disorder before treatment and could subject them to permanent expulsion from the profession.

Under Michigan's public health code, LPC's are legally required to comply with their professional code of ethics. They will be violation of this statute. Ultimately, these rule changes will prohibit Michigan's 10,000 licensed professional counselors from continuing to practice in the state and leave hundreds of thousands of residents without the treatment they need.

Additionally, insurance companies will no longer cover services of LPCs as a diagnosis is required for reimbursement.

R338.1757:

If this rule regarding counseling supervision requirements is rescinded, counselors who provide supervision without training would be practicing in violation of the ACA's Code of Ethics (F.2.a Supervisor Preparation).

Furthermore, LPCs who received their supervision in Michigan may not be eligible for licensure in other states because their supervisor would not be qualified in the state to which the counselor is moving.

Why is LARA proposing these changes?

The Attorney General's office raised concerns a few years ago as to whether the counseling rules were properly aligned with the counseling statute, questioning whether the rules exceed the statute. Since LARA only has the authority to promulgate rules, not change statute, they have proceeded with the only option available to resolve this concern: repeal the rules in question.

What is the status of the proposed rule changes?

Despite the unanimous objections by the Board of Counseling, on July 18, 2019, LARA filed a formal request for rule making and submitted its draft rules. The associated Regulatory Impact Statement for the proposed rule changes was filed on August 28, 2019.

This action triggered the setting of the required public hearing, which is scheduled for Friday, October 4 at 9:00 am at the G. Mennen Williams Building Auditorium located at 525 W. Ottawa Street in Lansing, Michigan.

After this public hearing, the rules can be certified, and a report submitted to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR). JCAR, a legislative body, has just 15 session days to review the rules. Their only course of action if they object is to introduce legislation within another 15 days to repeal them. After the JCAR review is completed, the LARA Director can adopt the rules.

When would the proposed rules take effect?

The rules changes were written with immediate effect. Given the above timeline these proposed rule changes could be in effect as early as November of this year immediately rendering Michigan's 10,000 licensed professional counselors unable to diagnose and, therefore, unable to legally practice in our state.

What can be done to oppose the proposed rule changes?

Any member of the public may comment in opposition of the proposed rules changes at the October 4th hearing. Written comments may also be submitted electronically any time before 5:00 pm on October 4th to BPL-BoardSupport@Michigan.gov  

What organizations are opposing the proposed rule changes?

The following are some of the organizations that have expressed opposition to LARA's proposed rule changes:

MMHCA (Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association)

CMHAM (Community Mental Health Association of Michigan)

MHA (Michigan Hospital Association)

MPCA (MI Primary Care Association)

MATCP (MI Association of Treatment Court Professionals)

MPFFA (MI Professional Fire Fighters Association)

ACA (American Counseling Association)

MCA (Michigan Counseling Association)

NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors)

MASW (MI Association of Social Workers)

MSCA (Middle School Counselors Association)

Central Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University

Oakland University

Spring Arbor University

University of Detroit-Mercy

Wayne State University

Western Michigan University

Hope Network

Pine Rest

MI AFSCME

Oakland County

How do the proposed rule changes relate to HB 4325?

The proposed rules are the administrative response to the Attorney General's question as to whether the rules align with the statute. HB 4325 is the legislative response.

What does HB 4325 do?

HB 4325, sponsored by Rep. Aaron Miller (R-Sturgis), would codify into statute the existing rules that have come into question instead of repealing them. This preferred solution allows counselors to maintain their ability to properly diagnose and treat individuals with mental and emotional disorders. The bill also makes a number of technical updates to the 30+ year old law.

Does HB 4325 change the scope of practice for licensed professional counselors?

No. It maintains the scope of practice that has been in placed since the Licensed Professional Counselor law was passed in 1988.

Does HB 4325 change who is eligible to be licensed as a professional counselor?

No. It maintains that only those with the education and training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disorders and meet the standards of the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) are eligible for licensure.

What is the status of HB 4325?

HB 4325 (S-3) was passed unanimously out of the House Health Policy Committee on September 19, 2019. The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee. A hearing and vote is expected on October 2. The bill will then be sent to the full House of Representatives for a vote.

How would the passage of HB 4325 affect the proposed rules?

HB 4325 negates altogether the need for LARA's proposed rule by resolving the Attorney General's question. It would nullify the proposed rules if they were to go into effect.

Who is supporting HB 4325?

To date the following organizations have formally taking a position supporting HB 4325, and many more are expected to as future opportunities in the legislative process allow:

MMHCA (Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association)

MPCA (MI Primary Care Association)

MATCP (MI Association of Treatment Court Professionals)

NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors)

MASW (MI Association of Social Workers)

MSCA (Middle School Counselors Association)

Central Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University

Oakland University

Spring Arbor University

University of Detroit-Mercy

Wayne State University

Western Michigan University

Hope Network

A few related other facts:

Our nation is facing a mental health crisis and there simply aren't enough counselors and other mental health professionals to meet the burgeoning demand for services, according to a recent analysis by the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA).

HRSA estimates nationally we need to add 10,000 providers in each of seven separate mental healthcare professions by 2025 to meet the expected growth in demand.

In Michigan there are nearly 1.4 million adults with mental illness and 67,000 youth suffering from a major depressive episode. The majority of these individuals are not receiving the care they need.

Costs are the reason nearly half of the adults are not receiving the treatment they need. Mental health counselors are uniquely qualified to meet the challenges of providing high quality care in a cost-effective manner.

 

 

If you want to help beyond the initial email

 

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Office:
Phone: (517) 335-7858

You can share your opinion with Governor here: 

https://somgovweb.state.mi.us/GovRelations/ShareOpinion.aspx

Speaker of the House, Lee Chatfield's Office:

Phone: (517) 373-2629
Email: LeeChatfield@house.mi.gov

Senate Majority Leader, Mike Shirkey:
Phone: (517) 373-5932

Email Contact Form: https://www.senatormikeshirkey.com/contact/

 

To find your state rep by your address:

http://house.michigan.gov/mhrpublic/frmFindaRep.aspx

 

To find your state senator by your address:

http://www.senate.mi.gov/fysbyaddress.html

 

A sample letter--but feel free to write from the heart:

 

The work of counselors is imperative in the socioeconomic health of the State of Michigan, and compromising an entire profession's ability to do the work they have been doing for decades is not only absurd but will render profound economic ramifications. 

 

There is an excellent bill waiting to pass to make sure the LPC scope of practice is solidified. It is called House Bill 4325 (proposed substitute H-3). We urge LARA and the Governmental Authorities of Michigan to focus on passing House Bill 4325 before attempting to cut an entire industry off at the knees. 

 

Highlighted points: 

1. Michigan already has a shortage of mental health professionals.

2. We are in the middle of a suicide epidemic, opioid epidemic, and teen depression is at an all-time high. We need LPCs practicing independently as they have since 1988.

3. Over 10,000 LPC Counselors will not be able to practice if this passes.

4. These LPC Counselors will lose their private practices, and their financial life is at risk, as well as their dependents and support staff.

5. This proposed rule change is wrong for the people of Michigan.

 

Another Detailed Article here:

https://www.practicesol.com/single-post/fightforlpc

Related News Stories:

 

https://www.9and10news.com/2019/09/19/northern-michigan-lpcs-worried-about-proposed-changes-by-lara/

 

https://wwmt.com/news/local/michigan-counselors-worried-over-new-proposed-industry-rules 

 

https://www.woodtv.com/news/michigan/proposed-rule-change-could-hurt-mental-health-workers/

 

https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/10000-counselors-and-150000-clients-with-mental-health-issues-could-be-impacted-by-new-proposal

 

"West Michigan Live w/ Justin Barclay." Interviews LPC Benjamin Reisterer about HB4325 as well as LARA's proposed rule changes, starts at 22:53 mark of this radio show. 

 

 

Michigan Department Of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. EST
Phone: 517-335-9700

 

 

A National Violence Prevention Hotline: Why and How? [Episode 31]

Simply put, this is the audio recording of the speech “Why we need a National Violence Prevention Hotline” that Paul Krauss MA LPC gave on May 17, 2019 at the Cultural Impact Conference held in Chicago, IL. This conference was hosted by the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

"Learn about a bold new national effort to save innocent lives and curb violence in the United States by focusing on reaching potential offenders before they act: The National Violence Prevention Hotline."

The Speech= Paul talking w/ Slides split screen: https://youtu.be/5cqW0ryKGzM
The Speech= Slides only w/ Audio: https://youtu.be/qW-LyHx50v8

Learn more and get involved with the National Violence Prevention Hotline project here:
https://www.violencepreventionhotline.org/

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

References utilized during the speech:

1. Sipsma, H. L., Canavan, M. E., Rogan, E., Taylor, L. A., Talbert-Slagle, K. M., & Bradley, E. H. (2017). Spending on social and public health services and its association with homicide in the USA: an ecological study. BMJ Open, 7(10). https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016379

2. Sumner, S. A., Mercy, J. A., Dahlberg, L. L., Hillis, S. D., Klevens, J., & Houry, D. (2015). Violence in the United States. JAMA, 314(5), 478. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.8371

3. Torrey, E. F. (2011). Stigma and Violence: Isn't It Time to Connect the Dots? Schizophrenia Bulletin, 37(5), 892–896. https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbr057

4. Stuart, H. (2003). Violence and mental illness: an overview. World Psychiatry, (June), 121–124. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1525086/

5. Mental Health Myths and Facts, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, August 29, 2017. mentalhealth.gov/basics/mental-health-myths-facts. Accessed Dec 8, 2018.

6. Baer, D. (2016, July 08). The Dallas Police Force Is Evidence That 'De-escalation' Policing Works. Retrieved fromhttps://www.thecut.com/2016/07/deescalation-policing-works.html

7. Botelho, G., Kuo, V., & Levs, J. (2013, August 23). Antoinette Tuff hailed as 'true hero' out of Georgia school shooting. Retrieved fromhttps://www.cnn.com/2013/08/21/us/georgia-school-gunshots/index.html

8. Cohen, M. A., Miller, T. R., & Rossman, S. B. (1994). The Costs and Consequences of Violent Behavior in the United States. In Understanding and Preventing Violence(Vol. 4, Consequences and Control, pp. 67-166). Washington, D.C.: The National Academies Press. doi:10.17226/4422

 

9. Dastagir, A. E. (2018, December 17). What actually happens when you call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Retrieved fromhttps://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2018/09/10/suicide-hotline-national-suicide-prevention-lifeline-what-happens-when-you-call/966151002/

10. George, R. (2013, August 21). Antoinette Tuff: Meet the Woman Who Prevented a Mass School Shooting Yesterday. Retrieved fromhttps://mic.com/articles/60379/antoinette-tuff-meet-the-woman-who-prevented-a-mass-school-shooting-yesterday#.zOAJaFkR8
11. Godlasky, A., & Dastagir, A. E. (2018, December 21). Suicide rate up 33% in less than 20 years, yet funding lags behind other top killers. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/news/investigations/surviving-suicide/2018/11/28/suicide-prevention-suicidal-thoughts-research-funding/971336002/

 

12. Gramlich, J. (2019, January 03). 5 facts about crime in the U.S. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2019/01/03/5-facts-about-crime-in-the-u-s/

 

13. National Domestic Violence Hotline. (2019, February 27). National Domestic Violence Hotline Projects Three Million Calls One Year Earlier Than Expected. Retrieved from https://www.thehotline.org/2013/01/29/national-domestic-violence-hotline-projects-three-million-calls-one-year-earlier-than-expected/

 

14. Roose, K. (2019, March 15). A Mass Murder of, and for, the Internet. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/15/technology/facebook-youtube-christchurch-shooting.html
15. Reuters. (June 11). Suicide prevention programs call for more funding. Retrieved from https://www.foxnews.com/health/suicide-prevention-programs-call-for-more-funding
16. The Peace Alliance. (n.d.). Statistics on Violence & Peace. Retrieved from https://peacealliance.org/tools-education/statistics-on-violence/
17. WITW Staff. (2018, October 24). Quick-thinking New Jersey woman stops would-be school shooting in Kentucky, officials say. Retrieved from https://womenintheworld.com/2018/10/24/quick-thinking-new-jersey-woman-stops-would-be-school-shooting-in-kentucky-officials-say/
18. Analysis | More than 228,000 students have experienced gun violence at school since Columbine. (n.d.). Retrieved May 09, 2019, from https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2018/local/school-shootings-database/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.53f6526dcba0

Audio clips utilized during the speech:

ABC News: The Horror Behind the Georgia School Shooting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEErwwPjpHA

Story at the end of the speech as read by Jack Kornfield
https://beherenownetwork.com/jack-kornfield-heart-wisdom-ep-92-stories-that-open-the-mind-mend-the-heart-and-lead-to-joy/

Original music, used: 

"Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Low Flyin’ Bird from Mangy Love by Cass McCombs

Podcast Pioneer, Professor, and Psychologist Dr. Dave of Shrink Rap Radio (an interview) [Episode 30]

In this episode, Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews "Dr. Dave" (David Van Nuys, Ph.D) about multiple topics including working in the early days of podcasting, his time as a Psychology Professor, and his now-famous podcast Shrink Rap Radio. In this interview, Dr. Dave discusses many diverse aspects of Psychology, shares many stories about his life, talks about some of his favorite interviews, and how podcasting has opened doors to many different human connections in his life. Paul examines how Dr. Dave's work has influenced so many people in the field of Psychology and counseling pre, during, and post graduate school and how valuable conversations are.

David Van Nuys, Ph.D. received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan and has worked as a licensed psychotherapist in both California and New Hampshire. He has led personal growth workshops at various growth centers around the U.S. and Europe.He is Emeritus Professor of Psychology at Sonoma State University and served as that department's Chair for seven years. The SSU psychology department has a longstanding reputation for its commitment to humanistic, transpersonal, and existential approaches to psychology. In addition to producing the Wise Counsel podcast for Mental Help Net (which is focused on mental health, wellness and psychotherapy), Dr. Van Nuys also produces Shrink Rap Radio podcasts with a broader focus on topics in psychology. Dr. Van Nuys has published scores of articles in both scholarly and popular periodicals and is co-author of the 2001 book, This Is The Zodiac Speaking: Into The Mind Of A Serial Killer.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

Original music:
”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Le Voyage de Penelope” from Moon Safari by Air

“Figures Of A New Color” from Alone, Not Alone by Montag

 

Growing up ”Black” in the United States, Fear, Empathy, and more with Chris Blount [Episode 29]

Paul Krauss MA LPC talks with Chris Blount about his experiences growing up as an African-American male in the United States. Chris discusses his experiences in the African-American community, and his experiences interacting with diverse cultures. Chris and Paul discuss their experiences becoming friends. Chris and Paul discuss personal growth through conversations and face-to-face conversations. They also discuss racism, stereotypes, “fear of the other”, projection, violence, the media, communication and more. Further, Chris discusses his thoughts about how one’s environment can influence their state of mind and sense of safety.

Also discussed: chance meetings, New Year’s Eve parties, Seattle, Tacoma, On Purpose Recordings, New Orleans, Chicago, genuine friendships, music, Wu Tang Clan, podcasts, Profoundly Ignorant Podcast, Chris Talks Podcast, “political geekery”, laughing on airplanes, cultural competence, learning from people who are “different than you”, exposure to culture, media, inner city upbringing, the culture of New Orleans, nontraditional households and upbringing, stepparents, trauma, crime, murder rates, police corruption and violence, kids going to school, bullies, poor neighborhoods, differences in schools, a deficit of options and opportunities, school counselors, “newsworthy” neighborhoods, Soldier Slim, adaptation, adjusting to trauma, “the hood”, we are all human, stereotypes, cultural lenses, suburbs, urban areas, living in a motel, how the news media paints pictures, The show “Cops”, labeling others, racism, cultural encapsulation, there is bias, and there are biases that you aren’t even aware of, projection, assumptions, lack of conversations, American Slavery, the South of the United States, the Bible Belt, Southern culture norms degrading African-American people, feeling “less than human”, not much exposure to people from other cultures, David Duke, KKK, curiosity, college, moving out of your comfort zone, Majoring in Psychology, we all have cultural differences—but we all have similarities, being online too much, how do we be friends?, social media, twitter fights, tribalism, projection, anger, how your environment affects your thinking, race relations, segregation, fear of the other, Alderman, fear, leaving your comfort zone, Chance the Rapper, PTSD, Black Lives Matter, Trayvon Martin, black males, negative experiences with the police, police brutality, a trip to the corner store ending up in a jail stay, how online videos have changed things, viewing murders online and no accountability, bogus charges, Anglo-Saxon is the predominant culture, chameleon, blending, paranoia, living in fear, Dallas Police Department, education of officers, psych 101, why does it have to take problems before we express empathy, authoritarian, emotions, knowledge, policing your own community, relationships, racist agendas, protection and defense, innocence lost, trying to see the good in people, institutional racism, the prison industrial complex, the message you get from the system, the People’s History of the United States, trust, “You’ve got to be carefully taught”, confirmatory bias, This American Life episode about “Cops”, transgenerational trauma, American slavery, “pain travels”, integrating high schools, cynicism, confronting abuse of power, the importance of white people speaking up on racist issues, the importance of straight people to speak on the importance of LBGTQA issues, getting involved in your community, civil rights, the New Orleans Saints, being the only person of color or the only white person at a party, the CTA, music is the universal language, knowledge is the cure, having discussions, bringing more awareness, finding a common ground, get out of your comfort zone, you get the same energy back that you put out there, honesty and authenticity,

Links from episode:

This American Life regarding the show “Cops” https://www.thisamericanlife.org/675/im-on-tv/act-one-7

“You’ve got to be carefully taught”
https://genius.com/Richard-rodgers-youve-got-to-be-carefully-taught-lyrics

Transgenerational Trauma
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transgenerational_trauma

Baer, D. (2016, July 08). The Dallas Police Force Is Evidence That 'De-escalation' Policing Works. Retrieved from https://www.thecut.com/2016/07/deescalation-policing-works.html

Chris Blount runs a music and podcast studio (On Purpose Recordings) in Tacoma, Washington. He is a Father, Husband, Hip-Hop Artist, podcaster, and jack-of-all trades. Chris is the host of two podcasts, Profoundly Ignorant and Chris Talks. Chris grew up in New Orleans. After Hurricane Katrina devastated his neighborhood, he moved to Chicago, IL —where he and Paul Krauss became friends. Chris lives with his wife and three children in Tacoma, Washington. 

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

Original Music (used with permission):

“Drifting Away” featuring Pawl from Open Wounds by Chris Blount

“Drifting Away” [Instrumental] from Open Wounds by Chris Blount

“Running of the Dead” Featuring Julia Massey from Great and Powerful by Gentlemen of Leisure Collective (GoL.Life)

“Cheers” from I WIN by Chris Blount

“Only You” featuring Chris Blount from I’m Not Here by Pawl & Keeynote

More by the Gentlemen of Leisure collective here: https://soundcloud.com/leisuregents

For your Free 30 day trial of Simple Practice Electronic Health Records and to support this podcast, click this link: https://ter.li/appk

How to End Self-Criticism with Dr. Karthik Ramanan (plus more on EMDR Therapy) [Episode 28]

Paul Krauss MA LPC talks with Dr. Karthik Ramanan about his passion for helping individuals end self-criticism. Dr. K shares some of his strategies with Paul as well as the way he works with people individually and reaches a larger audience with “The Dr. K show.” Dr. K also discusses his personal journey of going through a difficult time in his life and how he utilized EMDR therapy and other strategies to help him move through it. Dr. K does not shy away from sharing about the difficult times or personal life struggles and is open and authentic about his experiences. What Dr. K shares may inspire you if you have been struggling and are not sure what to do. Paul and Dr. K discuss strategies for helping oneself that are practical as well as clinical interventions that may help. 

Dr. Karthik Ramanan is a naturopathic medical doctor, inspirational speaker, and the host of the weekly online show, "The Dr. K Show." Dr. K specializes in everyday mental health and lifestyle medicine, and he helps ambitious individuals end self-criticism. He teaches the principles of everyday mental health through the lens of his personal health and psychological transformation and his education and experience as a physician. He inspires achievement-oriented individuals to get out of their own way, take intentional action, and create their ideal version of themselves to lead a purpose-driven life.

Download Dr. K's Journal to reclaim your mornings for free here: http://drkjournal.com

Website: http://drkarthikramanan.com

YouTube: http://youtube.com/drkarthikramanan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkarthikramanan/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/dr.karthikramanan 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.karthikramanan

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

Original music:

”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Reunion” from Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming by M83

 For your Free 30 day trial of Simple Practice Electronic Health Records and to support this podcast, click this link: https://ter.li/appk

 

 

Mindfulness Based Self-Compassion with Sivie Suckerman, LMHC [Episode 27]

In this episode, Paul Krauss MA LPC talks with Sivie Suckerman about Mindfulness Based Self-Compassion. Sivie discusses how to cultivate the ability to observe one's experiences with curiosity and kindness. Sivie and Paul discuss how to work on a way of relating to one's self and one's experiences with a non-judgemental attitude. If one came of age in a situation where they were motivated by criticism, it can be difficult to change one's internal thinking habits. Sivie goes on to further elucidate how Self-Compassion fits in with Mindfulness-Based practices and Buddhist Psychology.

Also Discussed: Seattle, craftsman homes, urban gardens, old friends, Episode 11 of The Intentional Clinician Podcast, Western Culture, Judgemental attitudes, hyper-criticism, motivation, self-loathing, comparisons, focusing, identity, identification, suffering, life journeys, non-questions, berating the self, widening the gaze, impermanence, the importance of experiences versus theorizing, your favorite teacher, EMDR therapy, Mindfulness Based therapies, bad things will happen, unconscious patterns, Jung, acceptance, allowing, Jack Kornfield, Buddhism, the natural occurrence of suffering, becoming more human, human experience, fighting reality, symptoms, non-acceptance, awareness, getting stuck, spinning in our minds, metaphors, being an observer, feeling our experiences, Kristin Neff, reading, noticing, meta-consciousness, and more.

Sivie Suckerman, LMHC provides Therapy, Mindfulness Classes, and Consulting Services in Seattle, WA. Sivie also serves as a supervisor to other counselors. Sivie received her Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2007 and has practiced in community mental health, crisis services, school-based mental health, residential, and women's health agencies. She is also a Certified Mindful Schools Instructor and Level II Little Flower Yoga Teacher. In addition, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Acting with an emphasis in Original Works from Cornish College of the Arts in 1998. Learn more here: http://www.siviesuckerman.com/

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

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Original music:


”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Come in Alone” from Loveless by My Bloody Valentine

“Starlight” from Mercury by Earth Girl Helen Brown

 

 

An Interview with Kent Dobson (Philosophy, Nature-Based Practices, Self-Discovery, Personal Transformation, etc.) [Episode 26]

In this episode, Paul Krauss MA LPC interviews Kent Dobson about philosophy, practical applications and practices for self-reflection and exploration, as well as his own personal transformation and story. Paul and Kent also discuss Kent's current work, which includes leading people through nature-based practices, teaching at C3, his podcast “Hints and Guesses”, and guiding people on journeys (both through nature-based practices and on actual historical tours).

Paul and Kent discuss his story, philosophy, nature-based practices, self-discovery, personal transformation. Paul and Kent discuss nature-based practices as experiential tools for self-discovery, personal transformation, cultural change, and more.

Also Discussed:
Quitting a job, disorientation, waking up, losing direction, losing a parent, writing, the process of descent, the call of the soul, psychotherapy, the second half of life, narratives, invitations, initiations, rites of passage, Richard Rohr, Carl Jung, James Hollis, James Hillman, Bill Plotkin, Mary Oliver, Western Culture, confusion, young adults, maturation, depth psychology, storytelling, counseling, indoctrination, materialism, avoiding depth, thought control, permission, transformation, break through, break down, integration, self-reflection, religion, orthodox beliefs, afterlife, faith, action, the unknown, a mystery onto oneself, the psyche, consumer culture, fantasy, fundamentalism, paradox, complexities, black-and-white values, labels, deep listening, growth, safety, habits, fear, public statements, identity politics, identity spirituality, group identity, tribalism, individuality, perception, shaping thoughts, news, media, face-to-face conversation, speaking and listening through filters, rules for trust, drawing lines based on following, post-truth, postmodernism, modern journalism or advertising, fear influences group identity, ego break-down, the shadow, authenticity, internet culture, scapegoating, projection, embracing the opposites, thin-level culture, end of different eras in religion, the great stories, anxiety, leaving the village, the call of individuation, Abraham (the three tiers of beginning a journey), a journey, fairy tales, Marie Louise von Franz, Joseph Campbell, symbol, metaphor, belief versus action, framing, historicity, Christ, waking up, suffering, archetypes, the hero’s journey, St. Francis, trauma, to live in service, Women who run with the wolves, life-death-life-cycle of all things, myths, Disney, being “ok” with “unknowing”, longing, grief, what does the soul want? Nature-Based Practices, Nature-Based Experiences, utilizing the natural world as a mirror, dreams, the unconscious, learning from natural observation, encountering our motivations, how to do we change, existentialism, Matthew Fox, a larger cosmology, Thomas Berry, a relationship with the Earth, Nature-based practices, transcendence, handing over control, becoming a process guide, experiential therapy, risk taking, silent retreats, vision fast, lack of control, identity, challenging our preconceptions, practical ways to de-stress, disorientation to mental patterns, emotional recognition, contemplation, a relationship with your gold and your darkness, “knowing” something in the ego-sense versus “deep knowing” from experience, information overload, application, inner-work, Rilke, Sigor Ros, Suffering with meaning, helping others, Buddhism, commonalities, mortality, death, the first half of life and the second half of life, What is the most meaningful things, courage, choosing a path with meaning, the soul, challenges, numinous, clues, asking questions, poetry, conversations.

Kent Dobson has many titles, among them “teacher”, “biblical scholar” and “tour guide.” He is the author of “Bitten by a Camel: Leaving church, finding God”, host of the Podcast “Hints and Guesses”, lead teacher at “C3: West Michigan’s inclusive spiritual community”, and is currently in the Soul Apprenticeship Program at the Animus Valley Institute.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

Original music:


”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“In Another Life (Edit)” from In Another Life by Sandro Perri

What is Trauma-Informed Care and Counseling? What are Trauma Specific Interventions? And Introducing The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids [Episode 25]

In this solo episode, Paul Krauss MA LPC discusses the many aspects of trauma-informed healthcare and trauma-informed counseling. Paul works to address many frequently asked questions in this episode: What is trauma? Have I, or someone I know, experienced emotional or psychological trauma? What are traumatic Events? What can happen to someone after they suffer from a traumatic event? What is trauma-informed counseling? How is a trauma-informed therapist different from standard counseling? Why is trauma-informed counseling important? Are there trauma-specific interventions that don’t require a great deal of talking? What if I don’t identify as having experienced traumatic events, can I still participate in therapy with a trauma-informed counselor? What does relief of symptoms caused by trauma involve? Is it true that Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Relationship Issues, and more can be rooted in past traumatic experiences?

Further, Paul defines and discusses the multiple trauma-specific interventions, including: EMDR Therapy, Somatic Experience Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and more. Lastly, Paul Krauss MA LPC unveils the work of the clinic he is working on developing in Grand Rapids Michigan: The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids.

Paul Krauss MA LPC is the Clinical Director of Health for Life Grand Rapids, home of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids. Paul is also a Private Practice Psychotherapist, EMDRIA Consultant in Training (CIT), host of the Intentional Clinician podcast, Behavioral Health Consultant, Clinical Trainer, and Counseling Supervisor. Paul is now offering consulting for a few individuals and organizations. Paul is the creator of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (in progress)  as well as the Intentional Clinician Training Program for Counselors. Questions? Call the office at 616-200-4433. 

If you are looking for EMDRIA consulting groups, Paul Krauss MA LPC is now hosting weekly online and in-person groups.  For details, click here.

Follow Health for Life Grand Rapids:

Instagram   |   Facebook     |     Youtube

 

Original music:


”Shades of Currency" [Instrumental] from Archetypes by PAWL

“Alone in Kyoto” from Talkie Walkie by AIR