This heartfelt episode of The Inner Space Project Podcast highlights the beginnings of our lives and the importance of mental health care in the first 18 years of life. Host Dr. Patti Ashley welcomes her daughter, Elizabeth Herman, a seasoned school psychologist and mother of two, for an insightful discussion on the challenges and importance of mental health support in schools. Together, they delve into the day-to-day responsibilities of school psychologists, including psychological assessments, problem-solving meetings, and advocating for students with disabilities. Elizabeth sheds light on the critical but often overlooked role of school psychologists, the staffing shortages they face, and how parents can effectively advocate for their children’s needs within the education system.

The duo also highlights the collaborative efforts between psychologists and social workers, offering actionable advice for parents to tap into available resources. She shares her approach to connecting with students, from validating their emotions to empowering them to explore their inner world with curiosity and compassion.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone passionate about the intersection of education and mental health.

MORE INFORMATION: https://pattiashley.com/moms-in-real-life/

In this episode of The Inner Space Project Podcast, host Dr. Patti Ashley dives further into the concept of "liminal space"—a period of transition filled with uncertainty, yet rich with possibilities. Known for her heart-centered and authenticity-focused approach, Dr. Ashley defines liminal space as the "in-between" moments in life that challenge our need for control, inviting listeners to embrace both the fears and hopes that arise during these times. She also reflects on recent podcast segments, covering life’s beginnings, middles, and endings, including impactful conversations with guests like Zeynep Biringen, Laura Deal, and Karen Van Allen, who share stories of parenting, storytelling, and navigating grief. Dr. Ashley touches on her own experience of liminal space, both personally and professionally, and the importance of allowing inner growth to flourish in moments of the unknown.

MORE INFORMATION: https://pattiashley.com/

In this episode of the Inner Space Project Podcast, Dr. Patti Ashley speaks with Karen Van Allen, a facilitator of A Course in Miracles and volunteer at the Hospice of the Valley, about navigating grief and endings. Karen shares her personal story of loss, focusing on the tragic death of her daughter over 20 years ago. This life-altering event led her on a journey from an analytical, business-focused mindset to one of deep emotional healing and spiritual growth.

Karen discusses how grief stripped her of her identity and plunged her into feelings of victimhood and anger, which she learned to process through spiritual practices, especially A Course in Miracles. She reflects on the power of surrendering to a higher guidance and how signs, like yellow roses and feathers, reassured her along her path. Together, Dr. Ashley and Karen explore the complexities of grief, the importance of honoring anniversaries, and how loss can bring unexpected gifts, teaching us to live from the heart rather than the head.

This heartfelt conversation offers profound insights into finding meaning and peace through life's toughest transitions.

MORE INFORMATION: https://pattiashley.com/

Karen Van Allen: https://newvisioncsl.org/course-in-miracles/