Psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler interviews health coach, author, and speaker Esther Avant about her book, "To Your Health: A Lifestyle of Health, Happiness, and Confidence,".  We explore how changing perspective can free people to question beliefs and pursue goals.

On this weeks episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Jessica Zucker about her book Normalize it: Upending the Silence, stigma and Shame that Shapes Women’s Lives, which examines women’s experiences from girlhood through menopause, including miscarriage, body image, motherhood, and friendship, and aims to dismantle the silence, stigma, and shame surrounding them.

Highlights

Unspoken Pain and Joy

Replace Silence with Stories

Miscarriage Stigma and Shame

Motherhood Without a Village

Three-part framework—acknowledge it, share it, normalize it

Menopause

Friendship Grief and Loneliness

This week on What Your Therapist is Reading, psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler is talking with Hannah DeGroot and Khara Croswaite Brindle about their book “Your Enneagram and Money: Transforming Enneagram Edges into Financial Freedom”. Talking about money can be difficult and bring a variety of feelings up for people. During this episode we explore how pairing the Enneagram with money is relational and practical. Understanding ourselves can be helpful in moving forward with our money goals.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, psychotherapist and host Jessica Fowler interviews education writer Natalie Wexler about her book "The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America's Broken Education System—and How to Fix It.  Wexler explains that many elementary schools, especially since the rise of high-stakes testing around 2000, have reduced time spent on history, social studies, and science in favor of practicing transferable reading “skills” like finding the main idea. Drawing on cognitive science, she argues these skills depend heavily on prior knowledge and vocabulary, and that building knowledge through coherent, topic-based instruction improves reading comprehension by reducing working-memory load (cognitive load theory). In addition, we discuss we explore how mental health and education are connected.

*Information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading.

*Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

 In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler, psychotherapist and book enthusiast, chats with Dr. Randall Alfino about his book “Listening in the Raw: Coming Home to Receptivity, which emphasizes deep, empathetic listening and the importance of vulnerability in fostering genuine human connections. Dr. Alfino shares personal anecdotes about reading and listening from his own life, exploring how true listening involves stripping away defenses and embracing curiosity and innocence. The discussion also touches on the psychospiritual dimension of listening and its transformative power in therapy and everyday relationships.

After today’s episode, head on over to @therapybookspodcast to learn about the latest giveaway and what else I am reading.

*Information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler chats with Dr. Robert Jason Grant about his book “AutPlay Therapy Play and Social Groups: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Model” cowritten with Tracy Turner-Bumberry. Dr. Grant explains the importance of respecting neurodivergent children's play preferences and avoiding imposing neurotypical standards on them. The conversation covers the concept of neurodiversity, practical examples of affirming care, and details about group therapy models that involve both children and their parents. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about providing affirming care to neurodivergent individuals and are given guidance on how to apply these principles in their practice.

Highlights:

 Discussing and understanding Neurodiversity

Understanding Play Therapy through this lens

Group Therapy Models

Practical Applications and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'What Your Therapist is Reading,' host Jessica Fowler chats with Dr. Margo Lowy, a psychotherapist, about her book 'Maternal Ambivalence: The Loving Moments and Bitter Truths of Motherhood.' We dive into the complexities of maternal ambivalence, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and understanding conflicting feelings in motherhood. Dr. Lowy shares personal anecdotes and insights into how these mixed emotions, including the darker ones, can fuel maternal love and growth.  The impact of societal ideals on mothers and the importance of self-compassion and personal reflections in parenting is explored.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist, about her book 'Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: The Attachment Theory Guide to Raising Kids in Two Homes.' Aurisha and Jessica talk all things about co-parenting. Aurisha outlines the structure of her book, including the six Cs of cooperative co-parenting, and provides insightful examples of real-life co-parenting challenges and solutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on the child's well-being, managing personal triggers, and shifting from a romantic relationship mindset to a co-parenting mindset. The episode also touches on practical tips and resources for parents and therapists alike.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading' Jessica Fowler interviews Deirdre Fay, MSW, about her book 'Becoming Safely Embodied'. The conversation delves into the imprinting of early childhood experiences, trauma, attachment theory, and how these can be transformed into a fulfilling life. Deirdre shares insights from her 40 years of experience in trauma and yoga, discussing practical steps for organizing the mind, body, and heart. The episode underscores the importance of self-compassion, understanding inner needs, and the lifelong journey of healing and transformation.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Amanda Ann Gregory about her book 'You Don't Need To Forgive: Trauma Recovery on Your Own Terms.' Amanda, a trauma psychotherapist, discusses all things forgiveness. They explore Amanda's definition of forgiveness as a fluid, process-oriented experience rather than a definitive end-point. The conversation extends to Amanda's personal and professional journey dealing with trauma, the importance of finding safety before addressing forgiveness, and practical ways trauma survivors can address external pressures to forgive. The episode includes a discussion of therapeutic strategies for trauma recovery, including EMDR, somatic therapy, and community support groups. Both trauma survivors and clinicians are encouraged to approach forgiveness and healing with flexibility and openness.

In this weeks episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler speaks with Christine Mark-Griffin, LCSW about her book "EMDR Coloring and Activity Book for Kids”, which integrates therapeutic techniques into fun and engaging activities. Christine shares insights on EMDR therapy, especially for children, and highlights how the book uses interactive elements to make therapy approachable and playful. The episode also covers the book's practical applications and its potential benefits for kids and therapists alike.

October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, so we are starting October with The Adult Side of Dyslexia by Dr. Kelli Sandman Hurley.  The discussion covers the long-term impact of dyslexia on individuals, particularly focusing on adult experiences and the lack of resources available post-school years. Dr. Hurley shares insights from her interviews with adults who have dyslexia, revealing the emotional and psychological challenges they face. The episode emphasizes the importance of early intervention, proper support, and self-advocacy for individuals with dyslexia to improve their quality of life and mental health. Listeners are encouraged to consider the lifelong effects of dyslexia and the role educators and therapists can play in supporting affected individuals.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, host Jessica Fowler speaks with Dr. Pearis Jean about her workbook Strategically Navigating Anti-Black Racism in Professional Spaces: A Practical Guide for Black People Responding to Racism in the Workplace. Dr. Jean, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Towson University, discusses her research and the development of the SNAP model (Strategically Navigating Anti-Black Racism in Professional Spaces). The conversation also delves into the importance of community and the emotional and psychological tools necessary for addressing workplace racism.

In this episode of What Your Therapist is Reading, Jessica Fowler discusses Therapeutic Conversations with Teens alongside Dr. Janet Edgette.  Dr. Edgette is an experienced psychologist and author. She shares insights from her new book 'Therapeutic Conversations with Adolescents,' highlighting effective ways to engage with teens in therapy by being authentic, respectful, and avoiding a question-based approach. She emphasizes the importance of talking 'with' teens rather than 'at' them, addressing real issues, and fostering genuine communication. The episode also delves into how cultural expectations about adolescence often lead to misunderstandings and provides practical advice for therapists and parents on how to build stronger connections with teenagers.

In this episode of 'What Your Therapist is Reading,' host Jessica Fowler talks with Dr. Angela Wood about her book, 'The Motivational Interviewing Workbook: Exercises to Help You Decide What You Want and How to Get There.' Dr. Wood, an experienced clinical social worker and academic, discusses the origins and applications of motivational interviewing, a counseling approach that helps individuals facilitate personal change through self-reflection and guided questioning. They delve into the key stages of motivational interviewing: focusing, evoking, and planning, and highlight the importance of understanding one's values and motivation for sustained change. Additionally, the episode touches on the impact of reading and writing on Dr. Wood's life, her experiences with depression, and the role of community in maintaining personal growth.

We are starting season 8 with Teaching With A Strength-Based Approach: How to Motivate Students and Build Relationships by Steven Baron, Psy.D., which seems fitting as we are in the swing of back to school. Dr. Barons, a seasoned school psychologist and private practice therapist, shares insights on how highlighting students' strengths rather than focusing on their deficits can significantly impact their success and well-being. The discussion includes practical strategies for educators to incorporate strength-based methods in their classrooms, emphasizing the long-term positive effects these relationships can have on students. The episode concludes with Dr. Barons reflecting on his motivation for writing the book and his thoughts on extending these principles to parenting.

In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Christina Cipriano, PhD. about her book Be Unapologetically Impatient: The Mindset Required to Change the Way We Do Things. Dr. Cipriano, shares ways to work toward inclusion with her own stories and the science on how to change the way we do things.

In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler is speaking with Khara Croswaite Brindle, MA, LPC, ACS, CFT about her book Moving from Alert to Acceptance: Helping Clinicians Heal from Client Suicide. This book covers suicide assessment and safety planning in a way that takes the fear out of asking. In this episode, we explore how Khara writes client stories and therapist stories of healing. We explore how impactful this event is to clinicians and the struggles that can be had while trying to heal.

In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Lori Elliot Sacks about her book Unlucky Lori: A Raw and Unfiltered Look at One Woman's Battle with Ovarian Cancer and How HOPE Wins.  In this book, Lori shares her journal of over almost a decade about her experience of going through treatment for Ovarian Cancer and then also being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. In this episode, listen is as Lori shares about the difficult times and how she has coped to continue to live a life she wants. She shares examples of ways she could take control in times that it could be difficult.  Lori shares her excitement for life and love of her family, while managing her own struggles through her illness.  Take a listen as Lori shares the insights that have helped her along the way. 

In this weeks episode, Jessica Fowler speaks with Larissa Nickson, LCSW, PMH-C, RYT 200 about her book I Hold You In My Heart: A Children's Book & Parent Guide to Helping Children Cope with Loss.  In this book, the characters explore and navigate difficult emotions like grief, sadness and anger and along the way learn different coping strategies. 

Highlights from the episode:

3:46 Larissa shares how the book is for children and parents to explore loss and shares some examples of the coping skills that are taught in the book.

4:59 Larissa shares a little about her story of grief and what inspired the book.

6:25 Larissa shares how she choose to use the word loss, so this book can be used in a way that it can be about losing anything.

8:37 Larissa shares who the book is for.