Episodes

  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #31 More Than "Just a Pet": Validating the Depth of Your Grief After Pet Loss with Dr. Adam Duberstein

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #31 More Than "Just a Pet": Validating the Depth of Your Grief After Pet Loss with Dr. Adam Duberstein
    Sep 30 2024
    In this episode of 'Grief Is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor discusses the subject of pet loss with special guest Dr. Adam Duberstein, a clinical psychologist specializing in grief, loss, and human development. They delve into the unique aspects of grieving a pet, share insights on anticipatory grief, and explore the multi-faceted ways pet loss can impact mental health. Highlighting the importance of validating pet loss as legitimate and profound, this episode provides practical advice on navigating this type of grief, both for those experiencing it and for those supporting them. Dr. Duberstein also offers creative suggestions for memorializing pets and underscores the vital role animals play in our emotional well-being. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:26 Today's Topic: Pet Loss 00:36 Meet Dr. Adam Duberstein 01:42 Understanding Grief and Loss 02:24 Personal Experiences with Grief 05:01 The Reality of Pet Loss 05:29 Common Misconceptions About Pet Loss 06:00 The Emotional Impact of Pet Loss 19:48 Supporting Those Grieving Pet Loss 29:52 Concluding Thoughts and Resources ----------------------------------------- Dr. Adam Duberstein is a fully-licensed clinical psychologist who provides teletherapy to clients throughout Michigan, Vermont, Florida, and the states covered by PSYPACT. He earned his doctorate in clinical psychology from the Michigan School of Psychology, which is where he also received his master's degree in clinical psychology. He also holds another master's degree in higher education and student affairs administration from The Ohio State University, and he has a bachelor's degree in English and psychology from Earlham College. Adam completed his psychology internship with Counseling and Psychological Services at Wayne State University. Before becoming a psychologist, Adam worked as a high school English teacher, and he also worked as an academic advisor for college students. He currently is affiliated with two different Michigan-based psychological clinics: King and Associates in Farmington, MI, and Sage Tree Psychology Group in Oxford, MI. Outside of his psychology practice, Adam is an adjunct professor at the Michigan School of Psychology, where he teaches classes on lifespan development, clinical skills, and ethics to students who are studying to be therapists. His research and teaching focus on ethical issues and problems within psychotherapy; human-animal interaction; and issues of emerging adulthood. Adam provides clinical supervision for master's level psychotherapists, and he also does consulting work, including helping student affairs professionals to cope with burnout; assisting students with doctoral dissertations; and career coaching. Adam is an active member of both the American Psychological Association (Divisions 5, 12, 13, 17, 29, 31, 32, and 42) and the Michigan Psychological Association. In his free time, Adam can be found listening to music (he always welcomes music suggestions!), volunteering at his local library, or exploring hiking trails with his energetic rescue dogs. www.adamduberstein.com adam@adamduberstein.com ------------------------------------------ I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed, PsyPact psychologist based out of Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process. https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com hello@griefisthenewnormal.com Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter https://www.themourningmovement.com hello@themourningmovement.com ------------------------------------- Opening Music by The Dadicorns Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor All Rights Reserved. This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
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    32 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #30 Another Year Without You: Birthdays in the Shadow of Loss

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #30 Another Year Without You: Birthdays in the Shadow of Loss
    Sep 23 2024

    Navigating Birthdays Through the Lens of Grief: A Reflective Journey In this special 30th episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, delves into the complex emotions surrounding birthdays in the context of grief. Sharing personal anecdotes and reflective thoughts, Dr. Taylor explores the bittersweet nature of aging when loved ones are no longer present. The episode offers insights on honoring the memory of lost loved ones, coping with societal pressures around aging, and provides self-care strategies and reflection prompts for those navigating birthdays during a season of grief.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:31 Celebrating Episode 30 and Personal Reflections

    00:38 The Intersection of Grief and Birthdays

    02:05 Reflecting on Aging and Loss

    04:51 Navigating Birthdays After Loss

    15:44 Self-Care Strategies for Birthdays and Anniversaries

    19:22 Final Thoughts and Reflection Questions

    20:29 Closing Remarks and Resources

    -------------------------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    21 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #29 Reflections from 'My Unexpected Journey': Navigating Child Loss & Suicide with Erin Blechman

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #29 Reflections from 'My Unexpected Journey': Navigating Child Loss & Suicide with Erin Blechman
    Sep 16 2024

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor is joined by Erin Blechman to discuss deeply personal and sensitive topics, including child loss and suicide. Erin shares her heart-wrenching journey of losing her son Max to suicide and her subsequent path to healing, which includes writing a book titled 'My Unexpected Journey: Reflections After Losing My Son to Suicide' and becoming a certified grief educator. The conversation addresses powerful themes such as the stigma surrounding mental illness, the complexities of grief, and the importance of community support. Erin emphasizes the need for compassionate conversations around mental health and the transformative power of honoring loved ones through meaningful work. A must-listen for anyone dealing with grief or supporting someone through it.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief and Today's Guest

    00:59 Erin's Story: A Journey Through Loss

    06:51 The Impact of Platitudes on Grief

    13:30 The Importance of Grief Support Groups

    17:50 Reconciling Identity After Loss

    18:11 Visualizing Grief Over Time

    18:45 Research on Grief and Child Loss

    20:05 The Permanence of Change After Loss

    20:50 Stages of Grief and Finding Meaning

    21:27 Purpose and Mission After Loss

    22:31 The Grief Community and Post-Traumatic Growth

    23:54 Reducing Stigma Around Mental Health and Suicide

    25:12 Complexities of Suicide and Mental Illness

    30:03 Important Takeaways on Child Loss and Mental Illness

    33:42 Remembering Max 35:21 Connecting with Erin Blechman

    37:23 Closing Remarks and Resources

    ----------------------------------------

    Erin Blechman is an author, speaker, and Certified Grief Educator whose mission is to elevate the conversation around grief and loss, mental illness, and suicide.

    Her book, My Unexpected Journey: Reflections After Losing My Son to Suicide, chronicles the eighteen months following the devastating loss of her own beloved son, Max to suicide after his long battle with mental illness.

    She offers grief support to bereaved parents through online groups and community talks that seek to build greater understanding of mental illness, suicide, loss and grief.

    Erin lives part-time in both Pittsburgh, Pa. and Naples, FL with her husband, Bill and Max’s former dog, Emmylou. Their son, Sam, and his wife, Julia, reside in Pittsburgh. My Unexpected Journey is her first book. Follow Erin on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @erin.blechman.

    Link to Erin's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/jjkgIBu

    -------------------------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #28 Who Am I Now? Navigating Identity and Healing After Partner Loss

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #28 Who Am I Now? Navigating Identity and Healing After Partner Loss
    Sep 9 2024
    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, discusses the profound impact of losing a spouse or long-term partner. She explores the unique challenges this type of loss brings, from role changes to intense feelings of loneliness. Dr. Taylor offers insights on how to manage responsibilities, support oneself and others, and find ways to honor the deceased. She underscores the importance of self-care, seeking professional help, and utilizing support systems, while encouraging listeners to be patient and kind to themselves during their grief journey. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:31 Understanding the Loss of a Spouse or Long-Term Partner 01:59 Managing Role Changes and Responsibilities 04:23 Navigating Emotional and Mental Challenges 07:27 Supporting Family Members Through Grief 09:44 Honoring Your Spouse and Self-Care Strategies 18:20 Finding New Confidence and Moving Forward 20:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -------------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    21 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #27 Sex & Sorrow: Exploring Grief’s Impact on Intimacy with Ellen Benezra, LMHCA

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #27 Sex & Sorrow: Exploring Grief’s Impact on Intimacy with Ellen Benezra, LMHCA
    Sep 2 2024
    Dr. Heather Taylor hosts a conversation with Ellen Benezra, LMHCA, a sex therapist, to explore the intersection of grief and sexuality. Ellen shares her journey to becoming a sex therapist and discusses how grief impacts individuals and couples in various ways, including libido changes and communication challenges. They also delve into how identity shifts, particularly with aging, can influence sexual experiences. Practical advice and resources, such as the book 'Come As You Are,' are provided to help normalize and navigate these complex emotions. The episode underscores the importance of open communication and understanding in supporting a healthy sexual relationship during times of grief. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:33 Meet Ellen: A Journey into Sex Therapy 02:53 Exploring the Intersection of Grief and Sexuality 04:28 Impact of Grief on Couples and Individuals 10:15 Strategies for Couples to Navigate Grief 17:25 Understanding Sexual Excitation and Inhibition 20:03 Grief, Aging, and Sexuality 24:58 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 27:58 Conclusion and Contact Information Link to Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski, PhD--> https://a.co/d/927nDjN ---------------------------------------

    Ellen Benezra, MACP, LMHCA is the cofounder of The Wellness Collective. As a sex-positive and pleasure-focused therapist, she is deeply passionate about helping individuals and couples cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships with themselves and others. She believes that sexuality is an integral part of our lives, and it plays a significant role in the dynamics of our relationships.

    Her career is dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of intimate relationships. She address a wide range of issues including sexual dysfunction, low libido, infidelity, communication problems, intimacy issues, and other challenges that can arise in personal relationships. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, she fosters an open and honest communication – a crucial element to developing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Learn more about her on her website at www.wellnesscollectivenw.com

    ---------------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #26 Let's Talk about Transitions: Navigating Grief while the world welcomes fall

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #26 Let's Talk about Transitions: Navigating Grief while the world welcomes fall
    Aug 26 2024
    Navigating Grief During Seasonal Transitions In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, discusses the challenges of navigating grief as the summer transitions into fall. She explores the feelings of being stuck while the world around us moves forward, the impact on executive functions, and the importance of self-compassion. Dr. Taylor offers practical strategies such as setting boundaries, creating rituals, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support. Tune in for valuable insights and coping mechanisms to help process your grief during this seasonal change. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:37 Navigating Seasonal Transitions in Grief 02:07 Understanding the Feeling of Being Stuck 06:34 Comparison and Unique Grief Journeys 11:03 Managing Daily Tasks During Grief 15:53 Self-Care Strategies for Grieving in Fall 19:31 Tracking and Understanding Grief Over Time 21:10 Conclusion and Support Resources -------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #25 Navigating New Norms: Young Adult Grief and Growth with Shea Wingate, LCSW (Part 2)

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #25 Navigating New Norms: Young Adult Grief and Growth with Shea Wingate, LCSW (Part 2)
    Aug 12 2024
    In this insightful episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor welcomes back Shae Wingate, a licensed clinical social worker, for an in-depth discussion about self-care and debunking common myths related to grief. The conversation explores the unique challenges of managing grief in your twenties, the importance of communicating your needs, and the delicate balance between grief and self-care. Shae shares practical strategies and routines for actively engaging in your healing process, as well as understanding the importance of intentional grief moments. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone in a season of grief or those supporting someone through their journey. Additionally, Shae introduces her upcoming projects, including a mini-series on grief myths and a holiday support group. After losing both her parents and older sister in her 20s, Shea Wingate experienced firsthand how little society understands grief. Throughout her grief journey, she struggled to find professionals who truly comprehended grief and could offer her the help she needed. This experience led her to open her grief counseling practice in 2021, drawing from her training as a therapist and her personal experiences with grief to help others navigate loss. Shea is known online as The Grief Girlie. You can find her on Instagram, where she gives practical advice and tangible support to all grievers. You can also work with Shea in her 1:1 virtual grief counseling practice or download her course, The Grief Myths Mini-Series. https://www.instagram.com/thegriefgirlie/ https://linktr.ee/griefgirlie https://www.thegriefgirlie.com/grief-and-loss-coaching ----------------------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #24 Navigating New Norms: Young Adult Grief and Growth with Shea Wingate, LCSW (Part 1)

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: Episode #24 Navigating New Norms: Young Adult Grief and Growth with Shea Wingate, LCSW (Part 1)
    Aug 5 2024

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, interviews Shea Wingate, a licensed clinical social worker and grief coach based in Nashville. Shea shares her personal journey and professional insights into grief, discussing the impact of losing her father, sister, and mother within 13 months, which inspired her to focus her practice on supporting grievers. Together, they discuss the complexities of grieving as a young adult, the importance of communication and connection in grieving, and practical resources and strategies for both therapists and individuals experiencing loss. Tune in for a candid conversation on how to navigate grief, foster supportive relationships, and embrace the healing process.

    After losing both her parents and older sister in her 20s, Shea Wingate experienced firsthand how little society understands grief. Throughout her grief journey, she struggled to find professionals who truly comprehended grief and could offer her the help she needed. This experience led her to open her grief counseling practice in 2021, drawing from her training as a therapist and her personal experiences with grief to help others navigate loss. Shea is known online as The Grief Girlie. You can find her on Instagram, where she gives practical advice and tangible support to all grievers. You can also work with Shea in her 1:1 virtual grief counseling practice or download her course, The Grief Myths Mini-Series. https://www.instagram.com/thegriefgirlie/ https://linktr.ee/griefgirlie https://www.thegriefgirlie.com/grief-and-loss-coaching ----------------------------------------------

    I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist in Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

    https://www.themourningmovement.com

    hello@themourningmovement.com

    -------------------------------------

    Opening Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    25 mins