Outside The Therapy Room

The holidays are often painted as a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but for caregivers, this season can bring an entirely different emotional landscape. In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Muskat, a therapist who specializes in caregiver mental health, to unpack the complex layers of supporting a loved one with dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), or other health challenges during the holiday season. Together, we explore the emotional weight of caregiving, the pressure to create a “perfect” holiday, the resurfacing of grief, and the exhaustion that comes from trying to hold everything together. You’ll hear insights on navigating anticipatory grief, setting boundaries, managing burnout, and finding small, meaningful moments even when traditions change. Most importantly, this episode offers validation, compassion, and practical support for anyone feeling stretched thin or unseen during the holidays. Follow Stephanie Compassion in Caregiving Listen to Caregiver Compass on Spotify Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

The holidays promise joy, connection, and magical memories — but for many parents, they also bring a perfect storm of pressure, expectations, and emotional overload. In this episode, we dive into the reality behind the festive photos: the overwhelm of trying to create the “perfect” holiday, navigating complicated family dynamics, managing judgment around parenting choices, and the added pressure when there’s a new baby in the mix. Joined by Christina Page, we explore how holiday stress impacts parents’ mental health, why the season amplifies comparison and guilt, and how to set boundaries that protect your peace. Whether you're juggling packed schedules, dealing with unsolicited advice from relatives, or simply trying to stay grounded, this episode offers compassionate insight and practical strategies to help you move through the holidays with more intention, calm, and authenticity. Follow Christina Whole Family Psychotherapy ADHD Mom Collective Group Infertility Support Group - Next Group in January! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

*** DISCLAIMER: This episode focuses on True Crime, we mention real murders, trials and other subjects that may be sensitive to some listeners.*** Why are we so obsessed with true crime? From podcasts and documentaries to TikTok deep dives, true crime content has exploded in popularity—but what is it about these stories that pulls us in? In this episode, I sit down with Bethany to break down the psychology behind our true crime fascination, how the genre can impact our mental health, and why so many of us—especially women—feel drawn to stories about danger and survival. We explore the emotional and biological factors behind true crime’s appeal, the potential benefits and risks of consuming this content, and the fine line between awareness and anxiety. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a devoted binge-watcher, this conversation will help you better understand your relationship with true crime and how to engage with it in a balanced, healthy way. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this episode, I sit down with Jenni for a grounded and insightful conversation about tarot—beyond predictions and mystique, and into its power as a tool for self-reflection. We explore how tarot can spark curiosity, deepen personal insight, and help us connect with our emotions and inner wisdom in a way that truly supports mental health and personal growth. Jenni shares how she approaches tarot in her own practice, what the cards can reveal about patterns, coping, and intuition, and why so many people find the imagery and symbolism so validating. We talk about using tarot as a gentle check-in with yourself, a prompt for reflection, or simply an invitation to slow down and tune in. And to wrap up the episode, Jenni gives me a mini reading—offering a real-time look at how tarot can open the door to clarity and meaningful conversation. Here are some Deck recommendations from Jenni if you are wanting to explore Tarot Cards further: Deck for Anyone (Beginngers or Otherwise) Deck that is gorgeous for its art and Jenni has used before Deck that embodies justice that Jenni LOVES Book that Jenni Referenced: Tarot Therapy Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

Destinee returns to the podcast! Live from maternity leave, she opens up about her experience as a new mom — the expectations, challenges, and surprises that come with stepping into motherhood. From navigating identity shifts to balancing her role as both a parent and her own self, Destinee shares honest reflections on what’s helped her stay grounded, what’s caught her off guard, and how she’s learning to give herself grace through it all. A heartfelt and real conversation for any parent trying to find their footing in the beautiful chaos of early motherhood. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Mason, a passionate advocate and lived-experience expert, to explore Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs) — including hair pulling and skin picking. Julie opens up about her personal journey, shedding light on the emotional and neurological components of BFRBs and why they are so often misunderstood. Together, we discuss what BFRBs are, how they can show up, the he shame many individuals face, and the importance of compassionate support. Whether you’re a clinician, someone experiencing BFRBs yourself, or supporting a loved one, this episode offers insight, hope, and tools to help break the silence and reduce stigma. Work with Julie Julie's Free Peer-Support BFRB Blog by Julie International OCD Foundation TLC Foundation for BFRBs Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this episode, I sits down with postpartum doula Lisette to talk about the power of peer support during the postpartum journey. Together we explore why having a village matters, how shared experiences help new parents feel seen and supported, and simple ways to build connection during one of life’s biggest transitions. Whether you’re a new parent, a support person, or a professional in perinatal care, this conversation highlights why no one should have to navigate postpartum alone. Follow Lisette on Instagram Lisette's Website Free Peer-Support: Willow River Free Peer-Support: Balancing Birth Baby Free Peer-Support: Shore Centre Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this episode, we sit down with Arsh to explore the complex and often misunderstood experience of masking within the neurodivergent community. Together, we unpack what masking really means—how individuals consciously or unconsciously hide parts of their authentic selves to fit into neurotypical expectations. We’ll discuss the emotional toll masking can take, its connection to burnout, identity, and belonging, and how unmasking can be both a liberating and vulnerable process. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself, a loved one, or a professional supporting this community, this conversation sheds light on the importance of creating spaces where people can show up as their true selves—without fear or judgment. More About Arsh Lindsey Mackereth Social Diagram (discussed by Arsh) by Lindsey Mackereth "Am I Autistic" Workbook by Lindsey Mackereth Unmasking Autism: Discover The New Faces of Neurodiversity by Devon Price PhD Arsh Arsh about Neurodivergence ! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

When we think of meditation, we often picture adults sitting in silence — but children can benefit from mindfulness just as deeply, if not more. In this episode, I sit down with Shefali Bhalla our administrative assistant at NMC, and a Developmental Psychology Research student, to explore how meditation can nurture emotional regulation, focus, and calm in children. Together, we discuss how to make meditation accessible and playful, what it looks like in real life (hint: not only silent sitting!), and how parents, caregivers, and educators can bring simple mindfulness practices into everyday routines. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or therapist, this conversation is a gentle reminder that calm isn’t just for adults — our little ones need it too. Check out Shefali's Blog Post Contact Shefali Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us , to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Rhonda Chamberlain, registered physiotherapist and pelvic health specialist, to unpack the overwhelming pressure many women face to “bounce back” after pregnancy — physically, emotionally, and mentally. Rhonda and I share our experience of the pressure of "bouncing back" after our pregnancies, and the realities of postpartum recovery, shedding light on how our bodies change, what true healing looks like, and why rushing the process can do more harm than good. We explore how unrealistic societal expectations and “bounce-back culture” impact not just body image, but also a new mom’s mental health and sense of identity. Together, we discuss practical ways partners and family members can support new moms — from fostering patience and understanding to encouraging rest and self-compassion. ✨ This episode is a heartfelt reminder that recovery isn’t a race — it’s a journey that deserves care, respect, and time. Learn More About Rhonda Follow Rhonda Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

What if moving your eyes back and forth could help heal old wounds? In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Moore, a certified EMDR therapist, to break down Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in a way that’s relatable, hopeful, and myth-busting. Sarah shares how EMDR works, who it helps, and why it’s more than just a therapy for trauma survivors. Whether you’re curious about starting EMDR, looking for new ways to support your mental health, or just love learning about cutting-edge therapy, this episode will leave you feeling informed and inspired. Tune in and discover: What actually happens in an EMDR session How EMDR differs from traditional talk therapy Why it can be so effective for trauma, anxiety, and more Tips from Sarah for anyone considering EMDR Press play and find out why EMDR is changing lives — and how it might help you or someone you love. Register for Sarah's FREE Workshop: Why Am I Like This? Oct 16th @ 6:30pm Book with Sarah Follow Sarah Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

Why are so many of us drawn to “spicy” romance novels with powerful, dominant male leads—and what does that do to our expectations of our partners? In this episode we dig into the surge of steamy books, the psychology behind alpha-male characters, and the thin line between passionate fantasy and problematic behavior. Our guest Ashley Mariani joins us to unpack: Why dominant characters are so appealing in romance fiction Ways these stories shape our views of intimacy, passion, and “fixing” partners The warning signs of coercion and control versus healthy, consensual dominance Practical tips for enjoying the fantasy without letting it set unrealistic standards Whether you’re a lifelong romance reader or just curious about the hype, this episode offers a balanced, thought-provoking look at how books can both inspire and mislead our ideas of love, sex, and relationships. Follow Ashley (The Rogue Therapist) Ashley's Website Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

What’s the difference between gender identity and sexual identity — and how do we figure it all out? In this episode, Dakota joins us for an open, honest, and uplifting conversation about how teens explore who they are, why adolescence is such a powerful time for identity, and how today’s adults are also re-examining gender and sexuality with more openness than before. We’ll talk about personal stories, cultural shifts, and practical ways to support young people (and ourselves!) as we navigate identity. Follow Dakota Dakota's Website Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

This week we’re diving into a topic that so many experience but few openly talk about—PMS, mental health, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) . I’m joined by Olivia Carvalho, the Menstral Coach, for a real and honest conversation about what the menstal cycles are and how our cycles can impact mood, emotions, and daily life in ways that often go unseen or misunderstood. Together, we unpack what PMS really is, how it connects to our mental health, and what makes PMDD different—and much more serious—than the “typical” premenstrual changes many people are told to just “deal with.” Olivia shares insights, stories, and knowledge to help break the stigma, raise awareness, and remind anyone struggling that they’re not alone. If you’ve ever wondered why your cycle feels overwhelming at times, or want to learn more about how hormones and mental health intersect, this episode is for you! Follow Olivia - The Menstral Coach Learn more about Olivia & her services Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this inspiring episode, I fangirl over the one and only Lacey Heels, author, poet and wonderful human, to talk about her brand-new book, The Rebirth Rituals . Lacey shares how writing and poetry became powerful tools in her own journey of processing emotions, navigating family dynamics, people-pleasing and creating space for growth and healing. Together, we explore the ways writing can help us give voice to our inner experiences, make sense of difficult moments, and allow us to distance ourselves from our emotions so we can understand them better. From sharing her process of writing and choosing passages for her book, getting comfortable with vulnerability of sharing her words, and tips and tricks to start writing, Lacey offers insights into how creative expression can be both grounding and liberating. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just curious about putting pen to paper, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to embrace the healing power of writing and maybe even start your own writing routine! Follow Lacey on Social Media Buy The Rebirth Rituals on Amazon Contact Lacey to buy her book and see Events she will be at! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

Season 2 of Outside The Therapy Room kicks off with one of the biggest transitions of the year—back to school. In this episode, I’m sharing how to spot the signs of school anxiety in kids (and teens), simple ways to help them process those big feelings, and practical coping tools that actually work. Plus, I’ll walk you through how I get my own family back into routines before the first bell rings—because a smoother schedule means calmer mornings. If back-to-school nerves show up at your house, this episode is packed with strategies to turn chaos into calm and help kids feel ready to take on a new school year. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this final episode of Season 1, Ivonne opens up about the hidden toll of always being "the strong one." As a therapist, business owner, and caretaker, Ivonne shares her recent personal experience of navigating life while holding it all together for everyone else — and what happens when even the strong feel like they’re falling apart. We explore the emotional cost of being the reliable one, the silent weight of unspoken expectations, and the importance of allowing ourselves to ask for help. This is a raw and relatable conversation for anyone who’s ever felt like they needed to stay strong, even when their own world was quietly unraveling. Whether you’re the go-to person in your family, your workplace, or your relationships — this episode is for you. Tune in and let’s talk about what it really means to be strong. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this episode, we explore the surprising challenges many of us face when it comes to simply resting . From the guilt that creeps in when we slow down to the cultural pressure to stay busy. Bethany is back and together, we unpack why rest often feels out of reach—and why it's more essential than ever. Join us for a compassionate conversation about recognizing burnout, and reclaiming rest as a necessary act of self-care. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

This week we are joined by Aleta Wilson! She is a registered social worker and has an amazing new program called Nice Girls Club starting May 14th. In this episode, we dive into the hidden challenges women face when caught in the cycle of being the "nice girl" — always accommodating, always saying yes, and constantly putting others' needs ahead of their own. Aleta shares tools to help us get closer to our Self-Assured selves. We share some personal stories, tips on how to identify yourself as a nice girl and real strategies for breaking free from people-pleasing habits without losing your kindness or compassion. If you've ever struggled to set boundaries, speak up for yourself, or fear being seen as "too much," this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. It's time to reclaim your voice and rewrite what it means to be "nice." Join Aleta's Nice Girls Club Aleta's Website Follow Aleta on Instagram! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

Melissa Pyne is BACK, and ready to take a deep dive into the world of psychedelic-assisted therapy. In this episode, we're breaking down what psychedelic therapy actually looks like. Melissa shares the three main types of psychedelic medicines used in therapy today—psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine—how they work, what they’re used for, and why people are turning to them for mental health breakthroughs. Thinking about trying this therapeutic approach yourself? We’ve got you. Learn what questions to ask a trained professionals before diving in and how to know if this path is right for you. Plus, Melissa uncovers the most important thing for professionals practicing psychedelic-assisted therapy to keep in mind and practice. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or totally psyched (pun intended), this episode is your beginner-friendly guide to healing with psychedelics. Alethia Psychadelic Assisted Therapy Inner Trailheads (Melissa's Website) Follow Melissa's Therapy Page Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

Sudden injuries can be painful, scary and a tough mental battle. Chris Michael is an Registered Massage Therapist, and he joins the podcast to share his story of recovering from knee surgery, after not being able to locate his knee cap! Chris gets real about the mental side of his recovery: the depression, anxiety and identity loss; and how he shifted his mindset and made space for his emotions to have a new perspective on recovery. If you've ever been injured, felt stuck or struggled to bounce back, this one's for you! Raw, honest and full of insight. Chris' Website Follow Chris on Social Media Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide and suicidality briefly. Please take care while listening, and reach out for support if needed. In this episode, we explore an anti-carceral approach to suicidality—an alternative to the traditional criminalizing and institutionalizing responses to those struggling with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Kaitlin Baldwin joins us, as we delve into how the carceral system often exacerbates harm rather than providing meaningful support, espeically for folks in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and how we can reframe our approach to mental health crises in a way that prioritizes care, compassion, and community-based solutions. We’ll also discuss other ways to support those who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional or a support hotline in your area. Resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) Crisis Text Line: Call or Text 988 Please remember that you are not alone. Help is available. Online Peer Support & Community Groups: Kaitlin's Suicidality Support Group Wildflower Alliance — Alts2Su (multiple groups—no registration required) Yarrow Collective – Adult peer-to-peer support group, "Alternatives to Suicide" Cait Maddan – Weekly peer support groups for suicidality (by donation) Mutual Aid Canada Queer Death Collective Follow Kaitlin on Social Media Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this candid and fruitful episode of Outside The Therapy Room, Ashley Mariani joins us as we explore the intricate dynamics of sex and relationships, offering insight and advice for creating deeper emotional and physical connections with your partner. Whether you're navigating the early stages of a relationship or working through long-term challenges, this episode covers everything you need to know to foster a healthy, passionate, and intimate bond. Join us as we discuss the importance of emotional intimacy, open communication, the role of trust, and how to address common issues that can arise in the bedroom and beyond. If you're ready to explore the complexities of sex and relationships in a supportive and open environment, this episode is for you! Tune in to discover how to cultivate the love, trust, and connection that make relationships thrive, and maybe even allow your own reflections of your relationship with sex. Ashley's Website Ashley's New Dads Guide to Postpardum Women - FREE Ashley's Instagram - The Rogue Therapist Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this episode of Outside The Therapy Room , Bethany and Ivonne dive into the topic of the inner critic — that nagging, self-doubting voice we all experience. They explore how it shapes our thoughts, impacts our confidence, and share practical tips for managing it. Whether it's in your career, relationships, or personal growth, learn how to befriend and quiet that inner critic and embrace a more compassionate, empowering mindset. Tune in for an insightful conversation on turning self-judgment into self-compassion! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at [email protected] to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

In this insightful podcast episode, Destinee opens up about her personal journey with gender disappointment during pregnancy. She shares her raw and honest feelings, providing listeners with a relatable and empathetic perspective on navigating the complexities of expectations and emotions surrounding the sex of a baby. Whether you're a parent-to-be or simply seeking to understand this often-overlooked experience, Destinee’s story offers support, understanding, and comfort to anyone facing similar feelings. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that highlights the importance of emotional honesty in the pregnancy journey. While the term to describe this feeling is "gender disappointment," your baby's sex is different from their gender identity, or how they experience gender. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website at www.newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!