Courage Speaks

Courage Speaks Ep.18: Finding Strength Through Vulnerability: Dr. Michael Clatch's Journey

Welcome to episode 18 of Courage Speaks.  This episode is brought to you by Courage to Connect, an outpatient mental health center located on Chicago's North Shore, offering therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, and dietician services for all ages.
Today's episode features the story of Dr. Michael Clatch, therapist, entrepreneur, and founder of Courage to Connect. Dr. Clatch shares his personal journey, shaped by the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of his mother, which led him to a career in mental health. He opens up about the pivotal moments in his life, including the heartbreak of losing his father, which guided him toward therapy and taught him the power of vulnerability.
Join us as Dr. Clatch discusses how his practice blends innovation with empathy, offering unique therapy experiences such as cozy themed rooms and walk-and-talk sessions. Discover how Courage to Connect isn't just a place—it's a philosophy rooted in the belief that courage and connection are at the heart of all healing.
Stay with us as we dive into a conversation about fear, connection, and the journey to finding strength through vulnerability. This is a very special episode of Courage Speaks with Dr. Michael Clatch.

Courage Speaks Ep.17: Building Resilience: Dr. Camilo Ortiz on Revolutionizing Anxiety Treatment for Kids

Join us on Episode 17 of Courage Speaks as we delve into an enlightening conversation with Dr. Camilo Ortiz, a professor at Long Island University and a practicing psychologist, known for his groundbreaking work in independence therapy for children and adolescents. Dr. Ortiz shares his journey from aspiring veterinarian to esteemed psychologist and discusses the innovative concept of Independence-Focused Therapy (IFT).
Learn how IFT is transforming traditional anxiety treatments by incorporating daily independence activities that empower kids to face and navigate their fears in a fun and engaging way. Discover the crucial role of mixed-age free play, the importance of practicing the 'four D's' (disappointment, discomfort, distress, and danger), and how parents can support their children's journey towards autonomy.
Dr. Ortiz also addresses common parental concerns, the societal shift towards overprotection, and the surprising benefits of allowing children to take calculated risks. Whether you're a parent, educator, or mental health professional, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering resilience and independence in the younger generation.
Don't miss this opportunity to explore a fresh perspective on child psychology and the future of anxiety treatment!

Courage Speaks Ep.16: Personalized Nutrition: Beyond the Trends: A Conversation with Kimberly Novotny RDN, LDN

Welcome to episode 16 of Courage Speaks. This week, host Sam Sherman talks with Kimberly Novotny, a dietician at Courage to Connect, about the myths of diet culture and how to cultivate a healthier relationship with food.
Kimberly shares her journey from marketing to dietetics and how her passion for wellness shapes her work with clients of all ages. They discuss the impact of social media trends like TikTok on our eating habits and body image, and Kimberly offers insights on creating sustainable, individualized eating plans.
Join us for an enlightening conversation on navigating societal pressures around food and finding balance in our diets without losing ourselves in the process.
Learn more about Kimberly

Courage Speaks Ep.15: The Evolving Role of School Psychologists with Coraline Dubois Ed.S, NCSP

Welcome to Episode 15 of Courage Speaks, hosted by Sam Sherman and brought to you by Courage to Connect, an outpatient mental health center located on Chicago's North Shore.
In this episode, Sam speaks with Coraline Dubois, a school psychologist and clinician at Courage to Connect Mental Health Center, who shares her unique journey from equine management to psychology.
She discusses the integration of special education in schools and how the pandemic has impacted child development. Coraline also offers valuable insights into managing screen time for children and the evolving role of a school psychologist.
Tune in to hear Coraline's inspiring story and her dedication to advocating for children and families within the educational system. Whether you're interested in psychology, education, or simply love a good career story, this episode has something for everyone.
Learn more about Coraline
Learn more about Courage to Connect

Courage Speaks Ep.14: Mental Health Counselor Patrick Mooney on Self Reflection, Career Change and Friendship

On today’s episode of Courage Speaks, we have a very special guest— my friend and soon-to-be co-worker, Patrick Mooney. Patrick's inspiring journey into the field of mental health is a testament to the power of self-reflection and perseverance. He made a bold career change, pursued his passion at Adler University, and gained invaluable experience during his clinical internship at the Juniper Center.
In our conversation, Patrick shares his insights on working with a diverse group of clients and the importance of understanding the "ghosts of our past" through a psychodynamic approach. He offers practical advice for those currently pursuing a degree in mental health, emphasizing the necessity of self-care and recognizing one's own capacity.
As Patrick prepares to join Courage to Connect, he reflects on the vital role of friendships and support systems, including our own friendship, which, as you’ll hear me talk about later, was and continues to be so vital to my personal and professional development. You will hear Patrick’s thoughtful perspectives, his experiences, and the meaningful connections he has made along the way. He’s one of my favorite people, and I think after listening to this episode, he’ll be one of yours as well.

Courage Speaks Ep.13: Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer on Anxiety, Therapy, and Punk Rock

Welcome to episode 13 of Courage Speaks.
On today's episode, we're joined by Deanna Belos, the front-woman of the Chicago-based band Sincere Engineer. Deanna shares her experiences with generalized anxiety disorder, the impact of therapy, and how she manages the pressures of performing. She reflects on the supportive Chicago punk scene, the challenges of balancing productivity with self-care, and the surreal moments of success in her musical career.
You will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of community, the complexities of managing anxiety, and the power of vulnerability in art. Deanna's candid conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone pursuing their passions while dealing with mental health struggles.
Sincere Engineer has been one of my favorite bands over the last several years, so it was an absolute honor to speak with Deanna for this episode. Please enjoy episode 13 of Courage Speaks with my guest Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer.
https://www.couragetoconnecttherapy.com/
https://sincereengineer.com/

Courage Speaks Ep.12: Marissa Kaelter, Ed.S., M.Ed., NCSP, on Productivity, Boundaries, and Mental Healthcare

In Episode 12 of Courage Speaks, delve into a profound discussion with mental health expert Marissa Kaelter, as she illuminates the societal constructs of "productivity" and offers strategies to navigate the associated guilt of non-conformity. Drawing from her rich experiences as a therapist, parent, and individual, Kaelter shares invaluable insights on productivity, mental health care, and coping with societal pressures. Explore the significance of setting personal boundaries, embracing self-forgiveness, and fostering trust within the realm of mental health.

Courage Speaks Ep.11: Bridging Battles: General Gregg Martin's Bipolar Odyssey

Welcome to Episode 11 of Courage Speaks, where host Sam Sherman engages in an intimate conversation with one of the most inspiring military leaders, General Gregg Martin. In this episode, General Martin openly shares his personal experiences battling bipolar disorder, illustrating his struggles from exhilarating manic highs to challenging depressive lows. This discussion provides a deeper understanding of bipolar disorder and highlights the significance of courage in confronting mental health challenges.
General Martin's journey draws focus on the misconceptions about mental health and exposes the gaps in our medical system in diagnosing and addressing such concerns. He emphasizes the importance of shattering stigma, advocating recovery, and saving lives. This conversation is a testament to the power of personal narratives in shedding light on mental health issues.
Throughout his career, General Martin experienced manic episodes that propelled him to exceptional achievements, yet also led to self-destruction. Despite the difficulties, General recognizes the importance of resilience and persistence in managing bipolar disorder. He openly discusses how the military, an institution dear to him, unfortunately stigmatizes mental health. Today, he hopes his transparency can help combat this stigma and assist those dealing with similar conditions.
Delve into General Martin's personal journey of recovery and the significant changes he brought about for mental health care within the military. Discover the latest strategies and resources developed to counter mental health issues within military teams. Further, learn about the military's efforts in providing continuous care during transition from active military life to civilian life.
Bipolar General

Courage Speaks Ep.10 : Trailblazing Minds: Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve, One of USA Today's Women of the Year

Welcome to Episode 10 of Courage Speaks.
Our host Sam Sherman engages in a conversation with Mayor Hillary Schieve of Reno, Nevada, who has been spearheading her community since 2014. A Woman of the Year named by USA Today, Mayor Schieve shares her personal journey with mental health and her thriving vision for improved mental wellness in her community.
Through her vivid anecdotes, Mayor Schieve talks about overcoming barriers to mental health care, navigating through a pandemic, and launching creative initiatives such as providing talk space memberships for her community. Her dedication to establishing 24-7 mental health urgent care centers and promoting a community-centric approach to mental wellness is truly inspiring. This episode shares an intriguing narrative of personal strength, resilience, vulnerability, and commitment. Join us as we uncover Mayor Hillary Schieve's audacious efforts to transform mental health care, one community at a time.
Despite mental health being a critical subject globally, the conversation around it is often hushed. Hence, Courage Speaks conducts a deep dive into the challenges enveloping mental health. We also introduce the United States Conference of Mayors, an alliance where mayors enlighten each other about their communities’ distinct difficulties and best practices. The goal is to improve community living, irrespective of political affiliations.
 

Courage Speaks Ep.9 : A Conversation with Keri Golding LCSW, Clinical Supervisor at Courage to Connect

In the 9th episode of Courage Speaks, we welcome licensed clinical social worker, Keri Golding. Join us as we navigate the intricacies of parenthood, the impact of social media on adolescents, and strategies to manage mental health.
Golding brings forth her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, parenting, and women's issues in an engaging conversation. She shares an enlightening discourse on her journey in the field of mental health and her devotion to working with mothers grappling with the challenges of parenthood.
The episode does not shy away from discussing the transformative impact of the digital age on the parent-child dynamic. It dives into the presence of societal stigmas around mental health and the increased anxiety levels in children due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
We further explore the role of social media platforms in children's lives, the pressure they impose, and the need for limitation and healthy boundaries. The conversation morphs into an examination of self-care practices crucial to mental well-being.
This enlightening episode concludes with invaluable advice for thriving mental health professionals, stressing the significance of curiosity, exploration outside comfort zones, and valuing the wealth of knowledge available in the mental health arena.
Join us for a riveting episode brimming with insights that will underscore the complexities of parenthood, the impact of the digital age, and the importance of nurturing mental health.