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Books Between Sessions

35 episodes - English - Latest episode: 8 months ago -

Join Licensed Therapist, Robyn Tamanaha, in this monthly podcast discussing books that feature mental health and mental illness topics. A wide range of books will be covered including children's, middle grade, young adult, adult, fiction, non-fiction, graphic novel, autobiography, and self-help.

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Episodes

Healing Through Writing & Amplifying Diverse Voices // Author Chat with Amy M. Le

September 10, 2023 13:00 - 32 minutes - 44 MB

Joining me on this episode is my guest Amy M. Le. She is a Vietnam War survivor and Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) warrior. She is the founder of Quill Hawk Publishing, a woman-owned, Asian American hybrid publishing company based in Oklahoma. Quill Hawk Publishing is dedicated to amplifying diverse voices through storytelling and helps writers indie publish their books.  Amy grew up in Seattle and had a successful career at Microsoft and T-Mobile before pivoting to become a writer, publisher...

The Yet Pet // Author chat with Theresa Tan, Psy.D.

July 09, 2023 12:00 - 30 minutes - 41.9 MB

Joining me today is my guest Dr. Theresa Tan. She is a licensed clinical psychologist who serves children, adults, and families. She received her PsyD from the Wright Institute, her Master’s in Elementary Education from Arizona State University, and her BA in Psychology from Cornell University. Before becoming a psychologist, she was a kindergarten teacher and she got her teaching start via Teach For America. She identifies as Taiwanese American and lives in the SF Bay Area. Creating a child...

The Last Cherry Blossom // Author Interview with Kathleen Burkinshaw

September 14, 2022 12:00 - 44 minutes - 60.5 MB

Joining me on this episode is my guest Kathleen Burkinshaw.  Kathleen is a Japanese American author, the daughter of a Hiroshima survivor and resides in Charlotte, NC. She’s a wife, mom, and owns a dog who thinks she’s a kitchen ninja. In 2019 Kathleen spoke about her mother’s experience in Hiroshima at the United Nations (NYC) and on UN virtual events for the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombing. She most recently spoke at a Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum virtual event in February. Kathl...

Adulting with ADHD // Author Interview with Gloria Joy Sherrod, LPC

February 15, 2022 13:00 - 31 minutes - 8.88 MB

Joining me on this episode is Gloria Joy Sherrod. She is the author of the book, Adulting with ADHD. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has years of experience providing counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults. In addition to her counseling work, she also provides ADHD coaching services. She is passionate about advocating for equity in education, access to care, and ending mental health stigma. In this episode she discusses: Intro How her book, Adulting with AD...

Efren Divided // Author Interview with Ernesto Cisneros

January 04, 2022 13:00 - 31 minutes - 8.91 MB

Joining me on this episode is Ernesto Cisneros. He is a proud parent, proud teacher, and proud author of the book Efren Divided. In Efren Divided, a 12 year old boy's life is turned upside down when his mom is deported and he is left to fend for himself, take care of his siblings, while his dad takes a second job, with the hope that the mother will be able to return. We discussed how one student led to the creation of the book, how readers can feel valued through storytelling, how Ernesto's ...

The Therapist’s Guide to Being Pregnant // Author Interview with Kara Bolling, LCSW-C

December 03, 2021 17:00 - 26 minutes - 7.51 MB

Joining me on this episode is Kara Bolling, LCSW-C, who authored the book The Therapist’s Guide to Being Pregnant:  A planner, timeline, and guide for therapist parents-to-be. We discuss Kara's personal journey as a mom, therapist, and private practice owner, feeling like you have to do things a certain way as a mom and business owner, how we treat ourselves as our own bosses, and the treatment of pregnant people in America. Instagram.com/karabollinglcswc  Facebook.com/karabollinglcswc  ...

Asian Women Who Boss Up with Sheena Yap Chan

October 28, 2021 16:00 - 36 minutes - 10.4 MB

Joining me on this episode is Sheena Yap Chan, who authored the book Asian Women Who Boss Up. We discuss Sheena’s experience interviewing Asian women for the book, Asian representation in books and media, myths about Asian women, and the importance of Asians talking about mental health and mental illness.  Find out more about Sheena at: https://taplink.cc/Sheena.yap.Chan  https://taplink.cc/thetaoofselfconfidence  To purchase her book: https://sheenayapchan.com/product/asian-women-w...

Mid Year Book Favorites 2021 + GIVEAWAY

August 08, 2021 23:50 - 16 minutes - 4.73 MB

TO ENTER THE BOOK GIVEAWAY follow Books Between Sessions on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booksbetweensessions/ All of the details for the giveaway will be posted on Friday August 13th, 2021 on Instagram.  Books Mentioned: Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab ACE: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex by Angela Chen Pilu of the Woods by Mai Nguyen The Weight of Our Sky by Hanna Alkaf Chronic Hope:...

Loathe at First Sight // Author Chat with Suzanne Park (Re-Release)

July 30, 2021 21:00 - 44 minutes - 12.8 MB

(Original Release Date: April 6, 2021) Joining me on this episode is Suzanne Park, who wrote the book Loathe at First Sight. We discuss Suzanne’s experience in the tech industry, including uncomfortable situations she encountered, as well as her research and interviews with men and women in the gaming industry, what it was like to get a tour of a gaming company, and her process and intention with the storylines she creates.  Suzanne’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/suzannepark  Suzanne’s I...

Chronic Hope: Families and Addiction // Author Chat with Kevin Petersen, LMFT

June 18, 2021 18:44 - 38 minutes - 11.2 MB

Joining me on this episode is Kevin Petersen, LMFT who wrote the book Chronic Hope: Families and Addiction. We discuss Kevin’s personal story, signs that your loved one is struggling with addiction, what finding a treatment center looks like, and the role of the family system in recovery.  Order the book: CLICK HERE The Chronic Hope Institute: https://chronichope.us/ The Chronic Hope Instagram: @thechronichopeinstitute The Chronic Hope Facebook: @chronichopeinstitute The Chronic H...

The Manna Paradigm Shift // Author Chat with Davina Kotulski, PhD

May 04, 2021 20:46 - 33 minutes - 9.69 MB

Joining me on this episode is Dr. Davina Kotulski, who wrote the book The Manna Paradigm Shift: Creating the Consciousness of Abundance and Freedom. We discuss how the Manna Mindset can help you create a life of freedom and fulfillment, assist in focusing on the present moment, help to connect with a power greater than fear, break free of mental chains, start saying yes to opportunities, and trusting that things will work out.  Download a free chapter of the book at https://themannaparadig...

Loathe at First Sight // Author Chat with Suzanne Park

April 06, 2021 12:00 - 44 minutes - 12.8 MB

Joining me on this episode is Suzanne Park, who wrote the book Loathe at First Sight. We discuss Suzanne’s experience in the tech industry, including uncomfortable situations she encountered, as well as her research and interviews with men and women in the gaming industry, what it was like to get a tour of a gaming company, and her process and intention with the storylines she creates.  Suzanne’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/suzannepark  Suzanne’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suz...

Special Roundtable Episode with Renn and Gina from New Suns Box and Author Kiku Hughes

March 27, 2021 14:00 - 42 minutes - 12.1 MB

Joining me on this episode is author Kiku Hughes who wrote the graphic novel Displacement, and Renn and Gina from New Suns Box. We discuss Kiku’s personal story and research, historical and contemporary administration influence, what led to the creation of the book, who the book is intended for, sci-fi and neocolonial, intergenerational trauma and silence, and patterns of racism in the United States. Kiku’s Twitter: @kikuhughes https://twitter.com/kikuhughes New Suns Box Website:  newsun...

The Rebellious Widow // Author Chat with Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW

March 09, 2021 09:30 - 41 minutes - 11.9 MB

Joining me on this episode is Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW who wrote the book The Rebellious Widow. We discuss Jill’s personal story, who the book is intended for, grief and loss, hospice, advance directives, and things for therapists to consider when working with survivors.  Jill's Book Website: therebelliouswidow.com  Jill's Website: jilljohnsonyoung.com  Jill's Group Practice Website: www.centralcounselingservices.com Jill's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grieftalker https://w...

Anxiety...I Am So Done With You // Author Chat with Jodi Aman, LCSW

March 02, 2021 21:29 - 33 minutes - 9.53 MB

Joining me on this episode is Jodi Aman, LCSW who wrote the book Anxiety...I Am So Done With You: A Teen’s Guide to Ditching Toxic Stress and Hardwiring Your Brain for Happiness. We discuss Jodis’ journey as a therapist, how the pandemic has influenced anxiety, how to rewire your brain for happiness, 5 things you need to feel better, and how to change how you think about your anxiety.  Jodi’s website: jodiaman.com    Jodi’s Twitter: Twitter.com/jodiaman    Jodi’s Facebook: facebook.com...

DBT Therapeutic Activity Ideas for Kids and Caregivers // Author Chat with Carol Lozier, LCSW

February 09, 2021 17:00 - 28 minutes - 8.27 MB

Joining me on this episode is Carol Lozier, LCSW who wrote the book DBT Therapeutic Activities for Kids and Caregivers. We discuss Carols’ journey as a therapist, the difference between adherent and informed DBT, tips for newer therapists working with school aged children and their caregivers, the 4 modules of DBT, and who her book is intended for.  Carol’s Private Practice Website:  www.carollozierlcsw.com Carol's facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Mrs-Carol-S-Lozier-LCSW-21130189...

Wherever You Are: A Memoir of Love, Marriage, and Brain Injury // Author Chat with Cynthia Lim

January 26, 2021 13:00 - 27 minutes - 7.78 MB

Joining me on this episode is Cynthia Lim who wrote the book Wherever You Are: A Memoir of Love, Marriage, and Brain Injury. We discuss the moment when Cynthia’s husband experienced a medical crisis, Cynthia’s experience caregiving for her brain injured husband, the complete experience of caregiving, what helped Cynthia get through caregiving, her grief process, and who her book is intended for. Cynthia’s website: cynthialimwriting.com Cynthia’s Facebook: facebook.com/cynthialimwriting  ...

2021 Trailer

December 31, 2020 03:30 - 2 minutes - 696 KB

I'm excited about the interest this podcast has generated and am looking forward to 2021.  I am excited to ring in the 2021 year with a lineup of new and returning guests.  In 2021, you can also expect guest interviews from authors of multiple types of book genres.  I’d like to let you know about the Books Between Sessions instagram page.  If you would like to see extra content, such as videos, Instagram Lives, and IGTV Videos follow the podcast instagram Books Between Sessions. Each month...

Self Help Workbooks

November 30, 2020 21:04 - 10 minutes - 3.11 MB

In this episode I discuss self-help books in the form of workbooks. The books I will be describing are for perfectionism, grief and loss, attachment in relationships, gender identity, and teen depression.  

BONUS: Suicide Awareness and Prevention Books

September 30, 2020 10:00 - 8 minutes - 2.55 MB

On this episode I discuss the suicide awareness and prevention books. September is suicide awareness and prevention month, and there are many books that cover this topic. The books I will be briefly describing are memoirs, self-help/workbooks, and education/informational.  

A Child Blames Herself for Her Mother's Mental Illness

September 01, 2020 02:52 - 12 minutes - 3.66 MB

On this episode I discuss the book Where the Watermelons Grow by Cindy Baldwin, which is about a child and her experience with being the oldest child of a parent who is living with schizophrenia, including making sense of her mother’s mental illness on her own and her own feelings of self-blame. This book is recommended for ages 8-12 years old. 

You and Your Gender Identity with author Dara Hoffman-Fox, LPC

July 10, 2020 09:00 - 34 minutes - 9.75 MB

Joining me on this episode is Dara Hoffman-Fox, LPC who wrote the book You and Your Gender Identity:  A Guide to Discovery.  Dara shares their personal journey and we discuss gender identity, what discovery looks like, components and resources that are helpful, and considerations during the pandemic. You can purchase Dara’s book at discoveryourgenderidentity.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or request it at your local bookstore. 

You and Your Gender Identity with author Dara Hoffman-Fox, LPC

July 10, 2020 09:00 - 34 minutes - 9.75 MB

Joining me on this episode is Dara Hoffman-Fox, LPC who wrote the book You and Your Gender Identity:  A Guide to Discovery.  Dara shares their personal journey and we discuss gender identity, what discovery looks like, components and resources that are helpful, and considerations during the pandemic. You can purchase Dara’s book at discoveryourgenderidentity.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or request it at your local bookstore. Additional information can be found at booksbetweensessions.com

Your Own Path Through Grief with author Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW

June 26, 2020 04:00 - 32 minutes - 9.4 MB

Joining me on this episode is Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW who wrote the book Your Own Path Through Grief:  A Workbook for Your Journey Recovery.  We discuss what grief recovery looks like, clarify myths and misconceptions, and how COVID-19 has impacted the grief process. You can purchase Jill’s books through Amazon. Additional information can be found at booksbetweensessions.com

The Shame Factor with Dr. Stephan Poulter

April 26, 2020 22:06 - 33 minutes - 9.49 MB

Joining me on this episode is Clinical Psychologist Dr. Stephan Poulter who wrote the book The Shame Factor:  Heal Your Deepest Fears and Set Yourself Free.  We discuss how Dr. Poulter’s book helps readers to get to the core of why they do not feel good about themselves, how shame distorts their view, what triggers shame and what can be done about it. You can purchase the book online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and StephanPoulter.com.  

Something Strange Happened in My City with Dr. Jenny Yen

April 19, 2020 08:30 - 34 minutes - 9.75 MB

Joining me on this episode is Dr. Jenny Yen who wrote the children’s book Something Strange Happened in My City: A social story about the coronavirus pandemic for children. Dr. Yen is an early childhood education and development professor at California State University, Fullerton.  We discuss how Dr. Yen’s book uses the social story approach to explain coronavirus to children ages 3-8 years old, to address common questions children might ask, and to reassure safety. With the current pandemic...

It’s Never Too Late to be Yourself with Dr. Davina Kotulski

April 12, 2020 04:00 - 37 minutes - 10.8 MB

Joining me on this episode is Clinical Psychologist, Life Coach, and Author Dr. Davina Kotulski who wrote the self-empowerment book It’s Never Too Late to be Yourself: Follow Your Inner Compass and Take Back Your Life. We discuss how Dr. Davina’s book helps readers to re-connect with their heart by exploring what matters, re-prioritizing life from a heart-based place, moving through fear, and going forward in life in a new way. With the current pandemic, this the perfect opportunity to explo...

It’s Never Too Late to be Yourself with Dr. Davina Kotulski

April 12, 2020 04:00 - 37 minutes - 10.8 MB

Joining me on this episode is Clinical Psychologist, Life Coach, and Author Dr. Davina Kotulski who wrote the self-empowerment book It’s Never Too Late to be Yourself: Follow Your Inner Compass and Take Back Your Life. We discuss how Dr. Davina’s book helps readers to re-connect with their heart by exploring what matters, re-prioritizing life from a heart-based place, moving through fear, and going forward in life in a new way. With the current pandemic, this the perfect opportunity to explo...

A Bipolar Disorder Self-Help Survival Guide in the Form of Cartoons

March 30, 2020 04:00 - 14 minutes - 4.05 MB

On this episode, I discuss the book Rock Steady:  My Brilliant Advice from My Bipolar Life by Ellen Forney.  This book is a graphic novel memoir, written by a cartoonist who is living with Bipolar Disorder. This book is through drawings, so it conveys information about bipolar disorder in a visual format.  The drawings make a diagnosis that can be confusing, more understandable. To find out more about the host Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT: robyntamanahatherapy.com Disclaimer: Disclaimer: This in...

BONUS: Books About Mental Illness by Authors Who Live with Mental Illness

February 09, 2020 22:42 - 11 minutes - 15.1 MB

In this episode, I talk about books that are about mental illness written by authors who live with mental illness.  Books mentioned include children's, young adult, autobiography, graphic novel, and self-help. Books mentioned: How it Feels to Float by Helena Fox Turtles All the Way Down by John Green Guts by Reina Telgemier Under My Helmet, A Football Players Lifelong Battle with Bipolar by Keith O’Neil Rock Steady by Ellen Forney Playing with Fire by Theo Fleury Darius the Gr...

A Scary Experience Leads to a Fear of Nearly Everything

January 28, 2020 03:04 - 52 minutes - 60.9 MB

Joining me on this episode is my guest Melissa Munoz, LMFT. We discuss the graphic novel Guts by Raina Telgemeier, which is about a girl who experiences anxiety from a scary event, which then starts to affect different areas of her life.  This is a very accurate explanation of anxiety and how it’s treated in therapy. It’s recommended for ages 8-12 years old.  To find out more about the guest Melissa Munoz, LMFT go to https://attachmentandidentity.wordpress.com/ To find out more about the...

My 2020 Anticipated Book Reads

December 31, 2019 06:30 - 18 minutes - 20 MB

I discuss my most anticipated books for 2020.  These are books that will be coming out throughout the upcoming year. These range in ages from children, teens, and adult as well as different genres. Some of these books may be on future episodes of this podcast, but they will not be the only books.  I do have books that I read this year that I will be recording into episodes.  And, I will continue having guests on the podcast where we will discuss books of their choice.  Also, I received email...

Teen with Schizophrenia Incorrectly Viewed as a Monster

December 18, 2019 20:16 - 29 minutes - 32.4 MB

On this episode, I discuss the book Words on Bathroom Walls by Julia Walton.  This book is a young adult fiction about a teen who is trying to hide his diagnosis of Schizophrenia from the new people in his life because of a bad experience he had. This story discusses the impact of stigma and misconception from family, community, and the media on an individual with Schizophrenia. It’s recommended for grades 7-9. To find out more about the host Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT: robyntamanahatherapy.com ...

Young Child Meets a Villain Who Wants to Rule the World

December 05, 2019 03:13 - 43 minutes - 50.6 MB

On this episode, I sit down with fellow licensed therapist, Melissa Munoz, LMFT.  We discuss the children’s book, Why, written by Adam Rex and illustrated by Claire Keane. This story is about a young child who meets a villain who wants to rule the world.  By sitting back and asking the question, “Why?” over and over, the young child manages to change the outcome of villain’s goal.  This story conveys the importance of listening without judgment, supporting a child in their struggle, feeling ...

Intro

November 17, 2019 02:51 - 6 minutes - 7.04 MB

Host, Robyn Tamanaha, provides background as a therapist, how this podcast came about, and what it’s intended for.  You can find out more about Robyn at robyntamanahatherapy.com

Twitter Mentions

@suzannepark 2 Episodes
@drkotulski 1 Episode
@jodiaman 1 Episode
@newsunsbox 1 Episode
@author_cisneros 1 Episode
@kikuhughes 1 Episode