In this episode Ann and Matt share the artwork and artists that inspire them, how being parents shapes the way they see creativity, and why superheroes resonate so deeply from a psychological lens. From identity and resilience to the stories we carry, it’s a mix of art, real life, and the meaning we find in both

In this episode, Ann and Matt unpack the gap between client expectations and the real, often messy process of therapy especially in a world shaped by AI and social media. From “quick fix” mindsets to curated online narratives, we explore how these influences show up in the therapy room and what it means for both clients and clinicians. Also… it’s been a long day. So you’ll get plenty of unfiltered thoughts, tired brain tangents, and the kind of honest, slightly chaotic conversation that happens when therapists are very real humans at the end of it all.

We’re diving into all things community in this episode how it’s supported us, inspired us, and helped bring Moon Magic to life. We share our appreciation for the art therapy world and get real about building a private practice that feels authentic and sustainable. Tune in for ideas on networking, local partnerships, and creative ways to connect with the people you’re meant to serve.

In this episode, Ann and Matt share some of their goto art directives for both individual and group sessions, creative prompts they return to again and again because they help clients explore feelings, build insight, and express themselves in meaningful ways.

They also talk about their own creative processes, what helps them reconnect with creativity, and take a little walk down memory lane with childhood photos.

And because no episode would be complete without it a little random chaos, Ann and Matt chat about why so many therapists love psychological thrillers and murder mysteries? Is it curiosity about human behavior, emotional processing after a long day, or something else entirely?

Expect creativity, nostalgia, and a few laughs along the way

In this episode, Ann and Matt talk about the balance between being human and maintaining strong professional boundaries as therapists. They explore how personality, lived experience, humor, and authenticity can actually strengthen therapeutic relationships when used thoughtfully. At the same time, they unpack the importance of staying grounded in ethical practice and clear boundaries so the work remains safe and effective for clients.

Along the way, the conversation takes its usual turn into the chaotic reality of therapy life from messy schedules to “how did this become my day?” moments proving that therapists can be relatable, imperfect humans without losing their professionalism.

Because sometimes therapy is deep clinical insight… and sometimes it’s riding the hot mess express while still holding the container.

Join Matt with special guest Emily Schlosberg and Medora Frazier as they discuss how therapists cope with professional isolation and the importance of peer support in mental health practice. In the world of therapy, counselors often face a unique set of challenges that can lead to feelings of isolation. Medora and Emily share their journeys into the field, the isolation they encounter, and how they cope with the demands of their profession. If you're a therapist or interested in mental health, this episode covers insights into the importance of connection and community in the counseling profession.

Ann and Matt get painfully honest about the realities of being therapists navigating insurance panels, self-pay rates, and the constant mental math of survival in private practice. They talk burnout, boundaries, and the emotional toll of trying to do ethical, meaningful work in a broken system while also daydreaming about building a model magic castle and collectively screaming into the void. Equal parts real talk and coping through imagination.

Ann and Matt chat with guest Sophie Restall, ATR-P, AMFT, APCC, to unpack what it really looks like to introduce creative tools to other mental health professionals. This conversation focuses on scope of practice, ethical boundaries, and how art therapists can support creative expression by other therapists without misrepresenting or diluting the role of art therapy.

We also swap stories from school-based work and touch on ethical considerations around art shows and the public display of client artwork.