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Carl Hampton is a seasoned psychotherapist, community leader, and supervisor at the Family Institute at Northwestern University. With over four decades of experience spanning criminal justice, rehabilitation, mental health, and private practice, Carl brings a deep well of wisdom, humility, and presence to his work. He is known for his lifelong commitment to mindfulness, relational attunement, and fostering authentic human connection, both in therapy rooms and supervision spaces.

In this episode, Carl shares stories from his early days working in prisons and victim advocacy to his current work as a therapist and supervisor. He talks about the foundational role of mindfulness in his life and clinical practice—starting with a strawberry-scented mantra at age 14—and how humility, curiosity, and trust are essential tools in therapeutic relationships. Together, we explore how mindfulness isn’t just a technique, but a way of being present with others, with ourselves, and with the unpredictable flow of life and learning.

For more about Carl, visit About Carl — Phoenix Clinic.

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Co-Hosted by Corina Teofilo Mattson and Mariana Reyes Daza. Show art by Jae Avilez and Corina. Music by Brandon Acosta.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Nancy Tartt, LMFT, is a therapist, leader, and founder of Inspirational Synergy, a practice rooted in helping individuals, couples, and families live authentically. With nearly a decade at Live Oak Chicago and a long-standing career in higher education at UIC, Nancy brings a unique blend of organizational leadership and therapeutic depth to her work. Her practice is grounded in feminist, relational, narrative, and emotionally focused therapy, and she is especially passionate about attachment theory and the role it plays in our healing and connection. Through her initiative Sojourner Speak, she also offers space for BIPOC individuals and groups to name and respond to microaggressions with confidence, authenticity, and voice.

In this episode, we explore Nancy’s journey from higher education leadership into full-time therapy and community-building work. She shares how she’s always been drawn to helping people find their voice—whether in couples therapy, the workplace, or social justice settings. We talk about attachment theory, what makes couples work meaningful to her, and how she holds space without rushing to fix or offer answers. Nancy reflects on spiritual knowing, learning to trust herself, and how personal history—including witnessing her mother’s organizing—has shaped her commitment to justice and purpose. We also talk about the launch of Inspirational Synergy and what it means to live aligned with your gifts.

For more about Nancy, visit ABOUT | Inspirational Synergy or Nancy Tartt • Live Oak Chicago.

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Co-Hosted by Corina Teofilo Mattson and Mariana Reyes Daza. Show art by Jae Avilez and Corina. Music by Brandon Acosta.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Chris Aguirre is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings over a decade of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Based in Illinois and trained at Northwestern University, Chris blends clinical expertise with a warm, down-to-earth approach that makes clients feel truly seen. His work draws from a variety of modalities, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, self-awareness, and personal growth. Whether supporting clients through anxiety, life transitions, family stress, or identity exploration, Chris shows up with humility, humor, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. Outside the therapy room, he’s a father, partner, and community coach, continually informed by his own lived experiences.

In this conversation, Chris joins Corina and Mariana to explore the transformative power of Internal Family Systems Therapy, both as a therapeutic model and a personal healing path. Chris shares moving stories about his journey through OCD and healing, and how IFS allowed him to connect with a sense of unconditional love. The episode highlights how parts work has shifted his relationships with his family, his clients, and himself. From skeptical beginnings to dancing in his living room with joy, Chris reflects on what it means to live and lead from self-energy. Whether you’re a therapist or a healing-centered human, this episode is rich with insight, vulnerability, and hope.

For more about Chris, visit Center for Psychology & Wellness — Chris Aguirre, MS, LMFT.

Follow Lessons from the Couch on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts to listen to new episodes.

Co-Hosted by Corina Teofilo Mattson and Mariana Reyes Daza. Show art by Jae Avilez and Corina. Music by Brandon Acosta.