Therapists' Take with Carrie and Josh

In this episode of the Therapists’ Take Podcast, we explore some uncomfortable—but essential—truths that emotionally healthy, non-codependent couples have learned to live by. At first glance, these insights might feel counterintuitive or even a little controversial. But rather than chasing the illusion of the perfect relationship, these couples have embraced a more grounded, realistic approach to love—one rooted in clarity, maturit...

In Part 2 of our heartfelt series, The Impact Our Clients Have on Us, we continue the conversation with the insightful Whitney Alexander, LMFT. This episode takes a deeper dive into the personal side of being a therapist—where our professional and human selves inevitably intersect.

We open up about our own vulnerabilities in couple relationships, the tension between being a "helper" and being human, and the sometimes uncom...

In this special two-part series, we’re joined once again by our friend and trusted colleague, Whitney Alexander, LMFT, owner of The Warren Alexander Group in Stillwater, OK.

This episode dives into a conversation that’s rarely had publicly—the personal and professional impact our clients have on us as therapists. In Part 1, we explore:

🔹 How our clients’ stories shape who we are as clinicians and people

🔹 The emotional weight that c...

Ever wonder what really catches a therapist’s eye—or ear—during a session? It’s not always the words you’re saying, but how you say them, what your body does, or the deeper patterns you may not even notice. In this episode of Therapists’ Take, we dive into the subtle but powerful signals that guide us as clinicians. From repeated themes to emotional tone to the moment a client says something “small” that’s actually huge—we’ll talk ...

Ever wonder what’s really going through a therapist’s mind during a session? In this listener-inspired episode of Therapists’ Take, we invite you behind the scenes to explore the internal world of the therapist. When a client begins to speak, the work starts—not just in listening, but in engaging a complex, intentional process rooted in empathy, observation, and analysis.

Therapists are constantly tuning into body language, emotiona...

Ever wonder what therapists are actually like when we’re not in session? In this fun and more personal episode of Therapists’ Take, we’re giving you a peek behind the scenes—sharing five things we wish more people knew about us outside the therapy chair.

We’re talking about everything from the myth that we’re constantly analyzing everyone (promise, we’re not… usually) to the reality that many of us are regulars in the client seat to...

Do you know what forest baths or blue spaces are? Have you ever heard of wild swimming? Did you know that nature itself can help regulate your mood, improve sleep, and support trauma recovery? 🌊🌲

In this episode of the Therapists’ Take Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Kelly Roberts to explore the incredible healing power of nature. 🌿✨

From forest bathing to wild swimming, Dr. Roberts walks us through how reconnecting with the natural ...

In this episode of Therapists' Take, we dive into the concept of taking the one-down position in betrayal trauma couple recovery. After betrayal, the partner who caused harm often struggles with defensiveness, shame, or minimizing their actions. However, true healing requires a shift toward humility, accountability, and emotional attunement. The one-down position is not about self-degradation—it’s about owning the harm, prioritizin...

In this episode of Therapists' Take, we dive into the controversial and often painful topic of betrayal through secret pornography use. Is it a form of infidelity? How does it compare to physical affairs? While some see pornography as a private, harmless activity, others view it as a deep violation of trust. We’ll explore the emotional and relational impact, the complexities of secrecy, and the evolving challenges of digital in...

In this episode of Therapists' Take, we welcome back polygraph examiner David Otwell to explore a critical aspect of the polygraph process—how to properly prepare for a polygraph and the importance of managing doubt. For many couples navigating betrayal trauma recovery, polygraph exams are often desired and sought after as a tool to aid in creating transparency and rebuilding trust, yet many approach the process with fear and uncer...

Valentine’s Day is often portrayed as the ultimate celebration of love, but for many, it can be a source of stress, disappointment, and even emotional pain. In this episode of Therapists' Take, we explore the dark side of Valentine’s Day, uncovering the hidden pressures, unrealistic expectations, and emotional struggles that often go unspoken. From the loneliness of being single to the strain placed on relationships, we discuss...

In this episode of Therapists' Take, we dive into Webster’s 2024 Word of the Year – Polarization and explore its impact on both mental and relational health. While polarization is often discussed in political and societal contexts, it also affects our personal lives, shaping the way we think, feel, and connect with others.

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00:00 - Intro

00:49 - Hi, Carrie!

01:24 - Words of the Past

04:59 - Episode Breakdown

07:13 - Defining ...

In this episode of Therapists' Take, we explore the growing phenomenon of climate anxiety and how therapy can offer hope and healing in the face of environmental uncertainty.

Mary Scruggs of Family Solutions Counseling joins us to discuss the emotional toll of climate change and share strategies for managing eco-anxiety.

We’ll cover key aspects of this timely issue, including understanding climate anxiety, the impact of enviro...

In this episode of Therapists' Take, we dive back into the polarizing topic of polygraph exams in betrayal trauma couple recovery. If you listened to Episode 44 (links are below), then you’re familiar with Carrie and Josh’s views on the subject—but could their perspectives shift after this conversation?

Joining us is polygraph examiner David Otwell, who brings decades of expertise to the table. David dispels common myths, expl...

In this episode, we explore Therapeutic Separations—a carefully structured approach to relational healing, facilitated by a licensed therapist, often used when couples face significant challenges such as infidelity or betrayal trauma.

We’ll unpack what therapeutic separations entail, who benefits most from them, how they’re designed, and tips to enhance their success.

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Episode Breakdown:

- What Is a Therapeutic Separ...

In this episode of Therapists’ Take, we explore the profound role vulnerability plays in building and sustaining healthy relationships. Vulnerability is often misunderstood as a sign of weakness, but in truth, it’s the cornerstone of trust, emotional intimacy, and genuine connection.

Join us as we break down what vulnerability truly means and how embracing it can transform relationships for the better. We’ll tackle common fears su...

In this episode of the Therapists' Take Podcast, Carrie and Josh dive into the controversial topic of polygraph exams in betrayal trauma recovery. For years, polygraphs have been used to aid couples navigating infidelity or sex addiction recovery, often as part of therapeutic disclosures. But are they truly effective? Do they truly serve the healing process?

Join us as we:

🧐 Unpack how polygraphs have been used in therapeutic disc...

From Conflict to Connection: Healing Relationships Over the Holidays. In Part 2 of our Thanksgiving series, we’re joined by two incredible returning guests: Dr. Shannon Dial and Whitney Alexander, LMFT, who bring their expertise to the table to help us navigate the emotional complexities of the holiday season. Building on the insights from Part 1, this episode focuses on practical steps to bridge the gap between gratitude and grief...

The holidays are a time of joy and togetherness, but they can also stir up unexpected feelings of grief, resentment, and emotional conflict. Why do gratitude and grief so often coexist during this season? In this powerful episode, we explore the emotional complexities of the holidays and offer insights to help you navigate them with self-awareness and compassion.

We’re thrilled to be joined by Dr. Shannon Dial, LMFT, from Family So...