Psyched to Practice

Tourette’s and tic disorders are often misunderstood, leaving families and clinicians unsure how to respond. In this episode, Ray Christner sits down with Haley Frazier, LPA-I, LSSP, to talk about Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)—an evidence-based treatment that helps children and families regain a sense of control. Haley shares both her professional expertise and her personal story of living with tics and pare...

In this episode, Paul and Ray revisit and remix their trilogy on communication—covering the impact of words, the role of swearing in session, and the power of nonverbal cues. They explore how subtle changes in language can deepen connection, how to use emotionally charged words with intention, and why meaning matters as much as the words themselves. From therapy openings and closings to those pivotal in-the-moment phrases, they sha...

Test anxiety isn’t just background noise in our clinics and classrooms—it’s the silent force holding clients back, often misunderstood and mismanaged. In this eye-opening conversation with Dr. Ben Lovett, leading researcher and co-author of "Overcoming Test Anxiety," we push past tired myths and reveal why nearly every student faces these struggles—and most interventions miss the mark. Dr. Lovett breaks down what actually...

In this episode, Paul and Ray explore the multifaceted nature of rivalries, discussing their psychological implications, social identity, and the balance between competition and respect. They delve into how rivalries can motivate individuals in sports, personal development, and even business, while also cautioning against the potential for toxicity and hatred. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect for ri...

Applied Behavior Analysis is often boxed into narrow stereotypes—and controversy—but what if the real story is far bigger, more collaborative, and more humanistic than you think? Join Dr. Jessica Kendorski and Ray Christner for a candid conversation that busts myths, clarifies what ABA truly is (and isn’t), and explores how behavior science radically transforms not only the lives of neurodivergent kids, but entire systems—from fami...

Following our recent episode, Accuracy in Accommodations, we wanted to revisit an episode that plays a crucial role in creating accurate accommodation. Enjoy this revisit to our previous Practice in Action episode: Problem? Solved

Problem solving is an integral part of our everyday lives and a critical skill that every mental health professional must be aware of. But what is good problem solving, and how do we use it in the therapy ...

In this episode of Psyched to Practice, Paul and Ray take on a conversation that hits home for educators, therapists, and parents alike—how do we know when an accommodation is actually helping? And when is it holding someone back? With clinical insight, personal stories, and a bit of humor, they break down how to tell the difference between under-accommodating, over-accommodating, and finding that “just right” fit. From executive f...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, hosts Ray and Paul engage with Jana Parker, a licensed educational psychologist and entrepreneur, discussing the transition from clinical work to business ownership. They explore the mindset shifts necessary for success, the importance of networking, and the continuous learning required in the field. Jana shares her personal journey, including the challenges and fears she faced wh...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, host Paul Wagner discusses the concept of metacognition, particularly in relation to executive functioning and ADHD. He explains metacognition as 'thinking about thinking' and emphasizes its importance in therapy and personal development. Using the metaphor of a GPS, he illustrates how individuals can evaluate their goals and the routes they take to achieve them, encoura...

In this episode, Dr. Ryan DeLapp discusses his new book on racial and cultural stress, focusing on the REACH program he developed to help clinicians better support youth facing these challenges. The conversation explores the definitions of racial and cultural stress, the impact on youth, and practical coping strategies. Dr. DeLapp emphasizes the importance of community, advocacy, and the role of clinicians in navigating these compl...

Is social media the hidden driver of teen depression, or can the internet be a lifeline for struggling youth? Join Dr. Meredith Gansner, child psychiatrist and author of “Teen Depression Gone Viral,” as she sits down with Ray Christner and Paul Wagner to explore the complicated—and sometimes risky—relationship between digital media, mental health, and today’s teens. Drawing from real clinical stories and cutting-edge research, this...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, host Paul Wagner discusses the opportunities that spring brings for enhancing mental wellness. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with nature, encouraging physical activity, fostering social connections, and the benefits of spring cleaning for mental clarity. The conversation highlights practical strategies for clinicians to support their clients in embracing the season for ...

Pop culture isn’t just entertainment—it’s a gateway to connection, empathy, and deep therapeutic work. In this episode, Paul and Ray sit down with clinical psychologist and media consultant Dr. Drea Letamendi to explore how fictional characters—from Batman to X-Men to Star Wars—can open doors in therapy that traditional methods often can’t. They talk real strategy: using pop culture in CBT, building media literacy, and why what we ...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, Ray Christner explores the metaphor of March Madness in relation to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He discusses how filling out a March Madness bracket can reflect our decision-making processes, particularly the balance between gut reactions and evidence-based analysis. Ray emphasizes the importance of resilience and acceptance of imperfection in both sports and life decision...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, Justin Rubenstein discusses his journey into school psychology and his specialization in executive functions. In this conversation, Paul and Ray engage with Justin to explore the intricate relationship between executive functioning, emotional regulation, and motivation in children and adolescents. They discuss the importance of involving parents in the therapeutic process, the rol...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, host Paul Wagner reflects on the recent episode, The Problem with Men, and shares how it has helped in addressing emotional intelligence, particularly focusing on alexithymia. He shares practical insights and strategies for therapists to help clients articulate their emotions and cope with anxiety, emphasizing the need for safe environments to express feelings and the value of psy...

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice Podcast, Dr. Ron Levant shares his journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a leading figure in the psychology of men and masculinity. He discusses his personal experiences with trauma, the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and the themes explored in his memoir, 'The Problem with Men.' Dr. Levant also delves into the concept of normative male alexithymia, the challeng...

Most of us have a voice in our head that isn’t always kind. But what if you could hear that voice argue with your better self—set to music? In this episode, we break down Ren’s powerful song Hi Ren, a raw and intense depiction of the struggle between self-doubt and self-empowerment. From the way he personifies intrusive thoughts to the way he finds his way back to hope, this song is a masterclass in mental health awareness. Join us...

Artificial intelligence is moving at breakneck speed, and mental health professionals are scrambling to keep up. In this episode of Psyched to Practice, Paul and Ray welcome Dr. Dan Florell—professor, psychologist, and AI expert—to break down how AI is reshaping clinical work, research, and education. Is AI a game-changing tool or a legal and ethical minefield? We cover the risks, rewards, and practical ways you can start integrati...