What happens when you stop chasing expectations and start listening to your inner voice?
In this heartfelt episode of Portraits, host Paula MacNeill sits down with Dr. Ava Ghasemi, a clinical psychologist, trauma specialist, and co-founder of mental health platform Hoopfull.com. She opens up about what led her to psychology, why EMDR and psychedelic therapy are transforming the mental health field, and how we can reconnect with our inner voice—especially during times of change.
🔎 Paula and Dr. Ava explore:
Identity, trauma & the power of inner beliefs
EMDR, ketamine therapy & mindfulness
Postpartum identity loss, chronic illness, and finding your way back to self
Therapy myths: what makes it work or not
Advice for anyone feeling lost or stuck
✨ This episode is for anyone seeking clarity, healing, or the courage to pivot into a more authentic life.
🎧 Watch now and share with someone who needs to hear this.
Follow us on socials:
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@portraits_podcast
Follow Dr. Ava: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ava.psychologygeek/
Mental health directory – https://hoopfull.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:11 Meet Dr. Ava Ghasemi
04:44 Challenges and Support in Germany
09:04 Returning to Iran and Cultural Reconnection
12:58 Educational Journey and Career Decisions
17:56 Discovering Psychology and Personal Growth
27:50 Training and Specialization in Psychology
31:28 Understanding Brain Plasticity and Change
32:49 The Role of Therapy in Personal Transformation
33:26 Challenges in Making Life Changes
34:41 Exploring Negative Inner Beliefs
37:50 The Importance of Finding the Right Therapist
41:44 Identity Issues Across Different Life Stages
47:13 Therapeutic Modalities: EMDR and Psychedelics
51:35 Creating a Mental Health Directory
54:26 Advice for Young Adults on Finding Their Path
55:59 Embracing Regrets and Personal Growth
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