In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Nichole Jones about brain spotting, a therapeutic technique that evolved from EMDR. Nichole Jones, LPC is a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner (soon to be consultant), Ayurveda+Yoga Therapist, and Money mindset coach who has been practicing brainspotting for the last decade. Nichole explains the origins of brain spotting, its process, and how it differs from traditional therapy methods. The conversation delves into the importance of body awareness, the client-centered approach in therapy, and the use of grounding techniques to manage activation during sessions. Nichole emphasizes that clients do not need to recount traumatic stories, making brain spotting a gentle yet effective method for processing trauma and anxiety. In this conversation, Nichole Jones shares her insights on brain spotting, a therapeutic technique for addressing trauma and emotional distress. She discusses the importance of understanding each client's unique needs and experiences, emphasizing that while brain spotting can be beneficial for many, it may not work for everyone. Nichole also reflects on her personal journey with brain spotting, revealing how it helped her navigate postpartum anxiety and other challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of small T traumas and the role of licensed therapists versus coaches in facilitating healing. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the necessity of support and self-awareness in the therapeutic process.

Takeaways:

• Brain spotting evolved from EMDR and focuses on body awareness.
• The technique was discovered by David Grand while working with athletes.
• Brain spotting allows clients to process trauma without reliving the story.
• It emphasizes a client-centered approach, adapting to individual needs.
• Grounding techniques are essential for managing client activation.
• Clients can find their own 'brain spots' for processing emotions.
• Therapists follow the client's lead during sessions, known as 'the tail of the comet.'
• The technique can be used for various issues, including anxiety and trauma.
• Clients do not need to have a detailed story to benefit from brain spotting.
• Everybody's a candidate for brain spotting.
• Small T traumas can have a significant impact.
• Healing often occurs between therapy sessions.
• Support is crucial during the healing process.
• Licensed therapists may offer more comprehensive care.
• Coaches can be effective if they have the right training.
• Self-awareness is key in therapy.

Connect with me:

https://nickyYyoga.com

https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity

support@nickyYyoga.com

Connect with Nichole:

www.nicholejones.com

www.awakened-wealth.com

https://www.instagram.com/therealnicholejones/

Keywords: brain spotting, EMDR, therapy, trauma, mental health, anxiety, counseling, healing, mindfulness, body awareness, mindfulness, emotional healing, coaching, licensed therapist, personal growth

In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Charlotte Nieuwenhuis about the profound relationship humans can cultivate with cacao. Charlotte shares her journey of connecting with cacao as a spiritual teacher, the differences between ceremonial cacao and commercial chocolate, and the importance of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the cacao industry. The conversation delves into the fermentation process, regional variations, and the significance of honoring the ancestral roots of cacao. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes cacao's role in reconnecting humanity with nature and fostering a deeper understanding of our relationship with the earth. In this enlightening conversation, Charlotte Nieuwenhuis shares her profound experiences with cacao, exploring its spiritual significance, cultural reverence, and its role in healing and women's health. She emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature and the wisdom of indigenous practices, while also addressing the commercialization of cacao ceremonies in the West. The discussion highlights the continuous journey of learning and the messages received from the cacao spirit, advocating for a deeper understanding and respect for this sacred plant.

Takeaways:

• Cacao serves as a spiritual teacher and a connection to the earth.
• Ceremonial cacao differs significantly from commercial chocolate.
• The fermentation process enhances the nutritional value of cacao.
• Regional variations in cacao affect its flavor and quality.
• Cultivating a relationship with cacao requires intention and openness.
• Ethical sourcing is crucial for sustainable cacao production.
• Honoring the farmers and indigenous cultures is essential.
• Cacao ceremonies can deepen our connection to nature.
• Cacao is a living being that offers wisdom and teachings.

Connect with me:

https://nickyYyoga.com

https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity

support@nickyYyoga.com

Connect with Charlotte:

https://heart-to-earth.com/

https://www.instagram.com/heart.toearth?igsh=MTB1c3hjMW1nd29uNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-nieuwenhuis-30b6b424b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Tags : cacao, chocolate, ceremonial cacao, fermentation, sustainability, indigenous cultures, cacao ceremonies, ethical sourcing, plant medicine, heart opening, Cacao, Heart Opening, Spirituality, Nature Connection, Women's Health, Indigenous Wisdom, Healing, Mindfulness, Cultural Reverence

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck speaks with Tiffany Freer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDRIA Approved Trainer and Consultant. Tiffany shares her deep expertise in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with children and adolescents, drawing from her experience in community mental health and the foster care system. Their conversation explores how trauma, both big and small, can impact a child’s development and emotional regulation, often leading to internalized beliefs of self-blame and unworthiness. Tiffany discusses the nuances of adapting EMDR for young clients, the importance of building positive memory networks, and how therapeutic storytelling can support healing, particularly for adopted children. Together, Nicky and Tiffany unpack the power of EMDR to address complex trauma and the vital role of a skilled, attuned therapist in guiding children and families toward lasting transformation.

Takeaways:

• Childhood trauma can have lasting effects into adulthood.
• EMDR requires modifications when working with children.
• Concrete tools are essential for engaging children in therapy.
• Children can experience dysregulation similar to adults during therapy.
• Small traumas can have significant impacts on self-worth.
• Memories are stored state-dependently, affecting emotional responses.
• EMDR helps synthesize maladaptive and adaptive memory networks.
• Building positive memory networks is crucial in therapy.
• Therapeutic storytelling can be effective for adopted children.
• Many people experience trauma that they may not remember until later in life.
• Therapists should not act as fact-checkers but rather support clients in their journey.
• Children often internalize negative experiences, leading to self-blame.
• EMDR helps clients process trauma by alternating between past and present memories.
• The effectiveness of EMDR can vary based on the individual's prior experiences with trauma.
• Finding a qualified EMDR therapist is crucial for effective treatment.
• Therapists should be aware of the importance of resourcing clients before diving into trauma work.
• Children's memory networks are shorter, allowing for quicker reprocessing in therapy.
• Building a trusting relationship with clients is essential for effective therapy.
• Therapists must accept the limitations of their role in a child's healing process.

Connect with me:

https://nickyYyoga.com

https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity

support@nickyYyoga.com

Connect with Tiffany:

https://greenwoodcounselingcenter.com/

https://emdroftherockies.com/

Keywords: EMDR, child therapy, trauma, mental health, childhood trauma, EMDR consultant, therapeutic techniques, emotional regulation, memory processing, attachment theory, childhood, therapy, mental health, healing, memory, internalization, therapist, counseling