Pint-Sized Therapy

 Trauma changes the brain. Addiction can begin as a survival strategy. And when mental health struggles and substance use disorders collide, recovery becomes more complicated — but no less possible.

In this episode, I explore the reality of co-occurring disorders, why they are so common, and how our treatment systems often leave people without the integrated care they deserve. You’ll hear how trauma reshapes the brain, why substance...

In honor of National Recovery Month, this episode explores the science of addiction and why recovery is not only possible — it’s real. We’ll break down how addiction rewires the brain, why people may begin using substances, and the genetic, social, and emotional risk factors that play a role. Through plain language, metaphors, and a relatable story, we’ll connect the science of addiction to the hope of recovery.

You’ll hear how the ...

September is National Recovery Month, and this year’s theme is Recovery is REAL—Restoring Every Aspect of Life. In this episode, we explore what recovery truly means beyond abstinence — it’s about healing the whole person, reconnecting with who we are, and restoring the parts of life that addiction may have dimmed. Together, we’ll talk about self-compassion as an antidote to stigma and shame, reflect on how recovery allows us to re...

In this episode, we explore what it means to consciously choose joy — and just as importantly, how to opt out of what doesn’t bring us joy. Inspired by a conversation with my best friend, we’ll talk about the difference between thriving and surviving, the science of Positive Psychology, and how joy isn’t a luxury but a necessity for our well-being.

You’ll learn about the psychological and physical benefits of joy, discover practical...

Do you ever feel like life would finally calm down if you could just keep everything under control? In this episode, we dive deep into our human drive for control—why we crave it, what happens when we can’t have it, and how it often leaves us feeling stressed, drained, and stuck. We’ll explore the difference between what’s truly within our power and what isn’t, and why learning to let go is one of the most freeing skills you can pr...

Change is one of the few certainties in life—and yet, it can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and even destabilizing. In this episode, we explore the Cycle of Renewal and how it helps us understand the transitions we face both personally and collectively.

Together, we’ll talk about:

• What life transitions really are, with everyday examples.
• The symptoms of burnout that often follow change overload.
• The four types of life transitions w...

Are you carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? In this episode, we’re diving deep into Superwoman Syndrome—a term coined in the 1980s by Dr. Marjorie Hansen Shaevitz to describe the pressure women feel to “do it all” and “be it all.”

Together, we’ll explore:

• What Superwoman Syndrome really is (and how it shows up in everyday life)
• The root causes, including cultural pressures, family expectations, and the fear of not ...

Have you ever found yourself constantly rearranging your life to meet everyone else’s needs—while ignoring your own? In this episode, of Pint-Sized Therapy, we explore a term I’ve coined: Radical Accommodation. It goes beyond people pleasing—into a deeper, more compulsive pattern of self-neglect driven by fear of rejection, abandonment, and the need to belong.

We’ll look at how Radical Accommodation forms, how it shows up in relatio...

In this deeply personal episode of Pint-Sized Therapy, I open up about the recent loss of my stepfather, who was married to my mother for nearly 40 years and played an integral role in my life. As I sat with my mother in the days following his passing, she quietly asked, "Am I grieving the right way?"—a question that reminded me how often we silently struggle with whether our grief is valid.

Together, we explore what grief...

In this warm and grounding episode, we take a gentle but honest look at what happens when life overwhelms us—emotionally, mentally, and physically. Whether you’re feeling anxious, burned out, emotionally flooded, or simply disconnected from yourself, this conversation offers a pause in the chaos.

We explore what emotional burnout really looks like, why emotional flooding is more than just a bad day, and how radical acceptance can be...

In this powerful and timely episode, Dr. Aletha Clark, examines the deep psychological wounds caused by mass deportation raids—not only on those targeted, but also on their families, communities, and those who witness these traumatic events. From the trauma of sudden separation and the neurobiological impact of fear, to the long-term consequences of generational trauma, learned helplessness, and cultural resilience, this conversati...

In Part 2 of our series, Dr. Aletha Clark goes even deeper into the psychology of turning red flags pink—common red flags and focusing specifically on family and friendships. Why do we give loved ones endless chances? Why do we silence ourselves to keep the peace? And how can we break the pattern?

We also uncover:
🚩 Common red flags to look out for in every area of your life
 🛑 What you can do to protect yourself when some...

Have you ever had that gut feeling that something wasn’t right—but talked yourself out of it? In this powerful first part of our two-part series, Dr. Aletha Clark explores what it really means to turn red flags pink—those moments when we downplay, rationalize, or ignore warning signs in relationships. From romantic partners to friendships, family, and even our own behavior, we dive into the subtle ways we minimize discomfort to avo...

In this powerful episode, psychotherapist Dr. Aletha Clark dives deep into the complex and often painful world of toxic relationships. You’ll learn how to recognize the subtle signs of toxicity—especially in romantic relationships—how love bombing and manipulation create emotional confusion, and why so many of us unconsciously fall into these harmful patterns. We’ll explore the emotional and physical toll of staying in toxic dynami...

In this deeply reflective episode, we explore the psychological and emotional realities of being in an abusive relationship—especially when power, wealth, and influence create barriers to escape and silence both victims and bystanders. Using the recent trials involving Sean "Diddy" Combs as a backdrop, we examine how abuse often begins subtly through manipulation and control, escalating in ways that can be hard to recogni...

In this episode, we explore how to set meaningful goals and live with daily intention—whether you're focused on personal growth, professional change, or simply finding more clarity in your life. We’ll break down what it means to align your goals with your core values, how to overcome common barriers like fear, perfectionism, or being overwhelmed, and how to create a vision that actually moves you.

You’ll walk away with powerful...

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, psychotherapist Dr. Aletha Clark walks you through what to expect from your first therapy session, different types of therapy approaches, the importance of the therapist-client relationship, and how to find the right therapeutic fit. You’ll also learn how to prepare for your sessions, what kinds of things are typically done in therapy, and key red an...