Empowering Connections
162 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 years ago -Welcome to Empowering Connections, a podcast by Connie Akins, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Private Practice, here to help you heal your personal and professional relationships through counseling advice, tips and ideas. Empowering Connections will focus on healthy ways to improve these relationships, help you manage your stress and attain self fulfillment.
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Episodes
The Caregiver Relationship
March 27, 2022 23:00 - 24 minutes - 17.1 MBIn episode 82, I am discussing the journey of " The Caregiver Relationship" and how the role of being a caregiver can be joyful and exhausting at the same time. Caring for a elderly parent and being totally responsible for their wellbeing is a journey of stress and love. If you want to know about how to take care of yourself and your love one listen to this podcast. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relationship problems? You can find me...
The Caregiver Relationship
March 27, 2022 23:00 - 24 minutes - 17.1 MBIn episode 82, I am discussing the journey of " The Caregiver Relationship" and how the role of being a caregiver can be joyful and exhausting at the same time. Caring for a elderly parent and being totally responsible for their wellbeing is a journey of stress and love. If you want to know about how to take care of yourself and your love one listen to this podcast. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relationship problems? You can find me...
Healing Urban Trauma
March 07, 2022 11:00 - 44 minutes - 30.7 MBIn episode 81 my guest is Qiana Wimbley from "The Guidance Couch" who shares a powerful story of survival and how to heal from a trauma she encountered. Most trauma is rooted in how people were nurtured and loved in childhood, but there are other types of trauma that individuals encounter throughout life that requires healing. Qiana is a Licensed Professional Counselor who also works with youth who have been sexually abusive. She is also chapter coordinator for "Crime Survivors for Safet...
Healing Urban Trauma
March 07, 2022 11:00 - 44 minutes - 30.7 MBIn episode 81 my guest is Qiana Wimbley from "The Guidance Couch" who shares a powerful story of survival and how to heal from a trauma she encountered. Most trauma is rooted in how people were nurtured and loved in childhood, but there are other types of trauma that individuals encounter throughout life that requires healing. Qiana is a Licensed Professional Counselor who also works with youth who have been sexually abusive. She is also chapter coordinator for "Crime Survivors for Safet...
Mentoring African American Males
February 21, 2022 11:00 - 41 minutes - 28.9 MBIn episode 80 my guest is Jahquan Hawkins, Dean of Student services at Oakland Community College, College Success Coach, Author, Entrepreneur, Michigan Chronicle Man of Excellence and facilitator of the "Man Up " program which mentors college men helping them to grow, learn about the college environment, succeed and complete college. Jahquan has written two books; "Finding My Way" and Donovan's College Adventure which can be purchased at www.jahquanhawkins.com and Amazon . Are you in ...
Mentoring African American Males
February 21, 2022 11:00 - 41 minutes - 28.9 MBIn episode 80 my guest is Jahquan Hawkins, Dean of Student services at Oakland Community College, College Success Coach, Author, Entrepreneur, Michigan Chronicle Man of Excellence and facilitator of the "Man Up " program which mentors college men helping them to grow, learn about the college environment, succeed and complete college. Jahquan has written two books; "Finding My Way" and Donovan's College Adventure which can be purchased at www.jahquanhawkins.com and Amazon . Are you in ...
Married But Lonely
January 26, 2022 03:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBIn this episode I am discussing the topic "Married But Lonely" . Have you ever felt alone in your marriage ? Have you suffered in a relationship where you felt unloved , disconnected, and lonely in your relationship. Marriages thrive on emotional and physical intimacy. If you feel lonely in your marriage or relationship listen to this podcast for some strategies on how to heal. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relationship problems? You...
Married But Lonely
January 26, 2022 03:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBIn this episode I am discussing the topic "Married But Lonely" . Have you ever felt alone in your marriage ? Have you suffered in a relationship where you felt unloved , disconnected, and lonely in your relationship. Marriages thrive on emotional and physical intimacy. If you feel lonely in your marriage or relationship listen to this podcast for some strategies on how to heal. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relationship problems? You...
How to Deal with Loneliness
January 10, 2022 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MBIn this episode I am discussing " How to deal with Loneliness" . The pandemic created a new normal and a new type of loneliness. People have been socially isolated by mandates, quarantines , and out of fear of exposing their love one to variants. In this episode I'm defining the term social isolation and loneliness. People who are single, elderly or making life transformations often feel lonely. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relation...
How to Deal with Loneliness
January 10, 2022 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MBIn this episode I am discussing " How to deal with Loneliness" . The pandemic created a new normal and a new type of loneliness. People have been socially isolated by mandates, quarantines , and out of fear of exposing their love one to variants. In this episode I'm defining the term social isolation and loneliness. People who are single, elderly or making life transformations often feel lonely. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relation...
Teen Suicide and Risk Factors in Black Youth.
November 22, 2021 14:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MBIn episode 77 my guest is Eric Scott, a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker , with a private practice in Southfield, Michigan. Eric shares his expertise on Teens and Suicide and Risk Factors in Black Youth. Eric shares what he considers to be some common risk factors and how mental illness and unresolved traumas impact youth. Please share and listen to this episode. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relationship problems? You can find ...
Teen Suicide and Risk Factors in Black Youth.
November 22, 2021 14:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MBIn episode 77 my guest is Eric Scott, a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker , with a private practice in Southfield, Michigan. Eric shares his expertise on Teens and Suicide and Risk Factors in Black Youth. Eric shares what he considers to be some common risk factors and how mental illness and unresolved traumas impact youth. Please share and listen to this episode. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma or having relationship problems? You can find ...
Another Side of Domestic Violence
November 01, 2021 23:00 - 19 minutes - 13.4 MBIn the 76th episode I share thoughts on " Another Side of Domestic Abuse". I want people to understand that domestic violence can also be psychological and emotional abuse. In this episode I give a clear definition and reasons why emotional and or psychological abuse is just as harmful for anyone who may be in a relationship with a partner who is using this as a mean of controlling their partner. Please listen and share this episode. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, ...
Another Side of Domestic Violence
November 01, 2021 23:00 - 19 minutes - 13.4 MBIn the 76th episode I share thoughts on " Another Side of Domestic Abuse". I want people to understand that domestic violence can also be psychological and emotional abuse. In this episode I give a clear definition and reasons why emotional and or psychological abuse is just as harmful for anyone who may be in a relationship with a partner who is using this as a mean of controlling their partner. Please listen and share this episode. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, ...
Infidelity- What is Cheating ?
October 11, 2021 13:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBIn episode 75 my guest is Dr. Melanie Ricaurte ,PsyD, Clinical Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor. Dr. Ricaurte is the Clinical Director of Harmony Holistic in Bethesda Maryland. In today's episode we are discussing " Infidelity " loosely based on the book State of Affairs by Esther Perel . We define the elements of cheating, stigmas around cheating and talk about the emotional implications of cheating . Are you in need of coachin...
Infidelity- What is Cheating ?
October 11, 2021 13:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBIn episode 75 my guest is Dr. Melanie Ricaurte ,PsyD, Clinical Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor. Dr. Ricaurte is the Clinical Director of Harmony Holistic in Bethesda Maryland. In today's episode we are discussing " Infidelity " loosely based on the book State of Affairs by Esther Perel . We define the elements of cheating, stigmas around cheating and talk about the emotional implications of cheating . Are you in need of coachin...
Parents with College Age Children
September 13, 2021 10:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBIn episode # 74 my guest is Vanita Sanders, MSW who is the Senior Director of College and Career Access and Success at Strategic Community Partners and former Assistant Director for GEAR-UP ( Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) at the University of Michigan. Vanita has championed college access, college readiness and community initiatives that support college age students and parents of college age students. In this episode "Parents and College Age Children" Va...
Parents with College Age Children
September 13, 2021 10:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBIn episode # 74 my guest is Vanita Sanders, MSW who is the Senior Director of College and Career Access and Success at Strategic Community Partners and former Assistant Director for GEAR-UP ( Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) at the University of Michigan. Vanita has championed college access, college readiness and community initiatives that support college age students and parents of college age students. In this episode "Parents and College Age Children" Va...
Single Fatherhood
August 02, 2021 10:00 - 29 minutes - 20.2 MBIn episode #73 my guest is Brendon Jackson a single dad who shares his journey of how he became a single dad raising a daughter . Recently the movie " Fatherhood" encouraged many to explore and discuss the roles that fathers play in the lives of their children. Brendon shares some his wisdom and insights into how fathers can provide 'emotional flexibility ' and vulnerability when raising their children. He also explained how fathers and mothers can co-parent without causing emotional harm ...
Single Fatherhood
August 02, 2021 10:00 - 29 minutes - 20.2 MBIn episode #73 my guest is Brendon Jackson a single dad who shares his journey of how he became a single dad raising a daughter . Recently the movie " Fatherhood" encouraged many to explore and discuss the roles that fathers play in the lives of their children. Brendon shares some his wisdom and insights into how fathers can provide 'emotional flexibility ' and vulnerability when raising their children. He also explained how fathers and mothers can co-parent without causing emotional harm ...
Attachment Styles and Relationships
July 21, 2021 15:00 - 17 minutes - 11.7 MBIn episode 72, I am discussing Attachment Styles and Relationships. Attachment styles are developed during infancy based on the relationship that the infant has with their parent or caregiver. Have you ever wondered why you behave a certain way in relationships ? Have you wondered why your partner behaves a certain way. This podcast will help you to understand why you behave a certain way in relationships and how to develop a secure attachment style. Are you in need of coaching or counseli...
Attachment Styles and Relationships
July 21, 2021 15:00 - 17 minutes - 11.7 MBIn episode 72, I am discussing Attachment Styles and Relationships. Attachment styles are developed during infancy based on the relationship that the infant has with their parent or caregiver. Have you ever wondered why you behave a certain way in relationships ? Have you wondered why your partner behaves a certain way. This podcast will help you to understand why you behave a certain way in relationships and how to develop a secure attachment style. Are you in need of coaching or counseli...
Friendships, Social Media and Mindfulness
July 06, 2021 02:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MBIn episode 71 my guest is Marissa Teslak, and we are discussing how social media and technology impacts friendships and relationships. Marissa is a Behavior Intervention Specialist and she will share some ways to reduce the negative impact that social media can have on your friendships. In this episode you will learn some mindful practices to help you manage your reactions to chasing the green dot ( checking your friends active status) and how much time you spend on social media and your sm...
Friendships, Social Media and Mindfulness
July 06, 2021 02:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MBIn episode 71 my guest is Marissa Teslak, and we are discussing how social media and technology impacts friendships and relationships. Marissa is a Behavior Intervention Specialist and she will share some ways to reduce the negative impact that social media can have on your friendships. In this episode you will learn some mindful practices to help you manage your reactions to chasing the green dot ( checking your friends active status) and how much time you spend on social media and your sm...
Burnout and Self-Reliance
June 28, 2021 10:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBIn episode #70 my guest is Dr. Jeff Lip , a Licensed Professional Counselor and Adult Education Administrator. Dr. Lip has visited the show several times and shares his knowledge and expertise on todays episode " Burnout and Self-Reliance" . Burnout is the result of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. In this episode Dr. Lip and I are discussing how therapist, helpers, pastors and other frontline workers experience stress. Dr. Lip shares kn...
Burnout and Self-Reliance
June 28, 2021 10:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBIn episode #70 my guest is Dr. Jeff Lip , a Licensed Professional Counselor and Adult Education Administrator. Dr. Lip has visited the show several times and shares his knowledge and expertise on todays episode " Burnout and Self-Reliance" . Burnout is the result of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. In this episode Dr. Lip and I are discussing how therapist, helpers, pastors and other frontline workers experience stress. Dr. Lip shares kn...
How to get along with In-laws
June 23, 2021 21:00 - 14 minutes - 9.85 MBIn episode #69, I am discussing the topic "How to get along withIn-laws". I give your some strategies to build a healthy relationship with your in-laws. Everyone has in-laws once anyone in the family marries. Believe it or not you can get along with your extended family including your mother-in-law and even your sister-in-law if you want to. Get to know your new family without the influence of your partner. In this episode you will learn ways to engage and bond with your new family. Are...
How to get along with In-laws
June 23, 2021 21:00 - 14 minutes - 9.85 MBIn episode #69, I am discussing the topic "How to get along withIn-laws". I give your some strategies to build a healthy relationship with your in-laws. Everyone has in-laws once anyone in the family marries. Believe it or not you can get along with your extended family including your mother-in-law and even your sister-in-law if you want to. Get to know your new family without the influence of your partner. In this episode you will learn ways to engage and bond with your new family. Are...
Multicultural Relationships
June 07, 2021 10:00 - 32 minutes - 22.2 MBIn episode 68 my guest is Nathalie Flores Lowther, and we are discussing " Multicultural Relationships " and what are some of the benefits as well as challenges when blending two different ethnic cultures together in a marriage relationship . Nathalie is from Peru and her husband is African American and she shares some insight into the relationship between the two cultures.
Multicultural Relationships
June 07, 2021 10:00 - 32 minutes - 22.2 MBIn episode 68 my guest is Nathalie Flores Lowther, and we are discussing " Multicultural Relationships " and what are some of the benefits as well as challenges when blending two different ethnic cultures together in a marriage relationship . Nathalie is from Peru and her husband is African American and she shares some insight into the relationship between the two cultures.
Postpartum Depression
May 24, 2021 09:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBIn episode 67 my guest is Heidi McBain, a Texas licensed therapist and perinatal mental health expert. She owns a counseling private practice that's based out of Flower Mound, Texas and focuses on mental wellness for moms during pregnancy, postpartum and throughout motherhood. Heidi and I are discussing "Postpartum Depression " as we continue to recognize Mental Health Awareness month. Is there is a difference between baby blues and postpartum depression. Postpartum depression includes moo...
Postpartum Depression
May 24, 2021 09:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBIn episode 67 my guest is Heidi McBain, a Texas licensed therapist and perinatal mental health expert. She owns a counseling private practice that's based out of Flower Mound, Texas and focuses on mental wellness for moms during pregnancy, postpartum and throughout motherhood. Heidi and I are discussing "Postpartum Depression " as we continue to recognize Mental Health Awareness month. Is there is a difference between baby blues and postpartum depression. Postpartum depression includes moo...
Entrepreneurship and Mental Health Advocacy
May 17, 2021 10:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MBIn episode 66 my guest is Ken Walker a local social activist for mental health, brand strategist, philanthropist, and young professional who shares his personal journey and how he became an advocate for Black Men and their mental wellness. In today episode Ken and I are discussing "Entrepreneurship and Mental Health " Ken is also a high fashion designer who created his own brand of high-street life style clothing, the brand platform" Tailor Your True Self. Ken has built marketing campaigns...
Entrepreneurship and Mental Health Advocacy
May 17, 2021 10:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MBIn episode 66 my guest is Ken Walker a local social activist for mental health, brand strategist, philanthropist, and young professional who shares his personal journey and how he became an advocate for Black Men and their mental wellness. In today episode Ken and I are discussing "Entrepreneurship and Mental Health " Ken is also a high fashion designer who created his own brand of high-street life style clothing, the brand platform" Tailor Your True Self. Ken has built marketing campaigns...
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
May 10, 2021 11:00 - 21 minutes - 15.1 MBIn episode 65 my guest is Raynard Meridith, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a practice in Southfield Michigan. We are continuing to celebrate and acknowledge Mental Health Awareness Month during the month of May. During this episode Raynard and I are discussing "Post-traumatic Stress Disorder" which is often misunderstood in the community. Raynard provides us with the DSM-IV definition and gives examples of how PTSD effects individuals in our world. Raynard also provide interventi...
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
May 10, 2021 11:00 - 21 minutes - 15.1 MBIn episode 65 my guest is Raynard Meridith, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a practice in Southfield Michigan. We are continuing to celebrate and acknowledge Mental Health Awareness Month during the month of May. During this episode Raynard and I are discussing "Post-traumatic Stress Disorder" which is often misunderstood in the community. Raynard provides us with the DSM-IV definition and gives examples of how PTSD effects individuals in our world. Raynard also provide interventi...
Mental Health and The Pandemic
May 03, 2021 09:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MBIn episode 64 my guests are two local mental health professionals; Eric Scott, LMSW , and Nicole Bell , LPC . May is Mental Health Awareness month and we are discussing how the pandemic has impacted mental health. Eric and Nicole share their expertise and some coping strategies to deal with all that is going going with the pandemic, social justice, parenting, relationships, and the education of school age children. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression or having ...
Mental Health and The Pandemic
May 03, 2021 09:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MBIn episode 64 my guests are two local mental health professionals; Eric Scott, LMSW , and Nicole Bell , LPC . May is Mental Health Awareness month and we are discussing how the pandemic has impacted mental health. Eric and Nicole share their expertise and some coping strategies to deal with all that is going going with the pandemic, social justice, parenting, relationships, and the education of school age children. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression or having ...
Fitness and Holistic Health
April 26, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 14.3 MBIn this episode my guest is a fitness and holistic health coach from Atlanta Georgia . He shares his health and fitness tips . Fitness is a mindset and your health begins in the womb according to @Supremeholesticofficial. He believes everyone should have an individual plan for health , fitness and recognize the utility of health. Health is so important to your energy and everything that you do in life. Focusing on your health is aligned to having your priorities in order. Are you in need ...
Fitness and Holistic Health
April 26, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 14.3 MBIn this episode my guest is a fitness and holistic health coach from Atlanta Georgia . He shares his health and fitness tips . Fitness is a mindset and your health begins in the womb according to @Supremeholesticofficial. He believes everyone should have an individual plan for health , fitness and recognize the utility of health. Health is so important to your energy and everything that you do in life. Focusing on your health is aligned to having your priorities in order. Are you in need ...
Addiction and Relationships
April 19, 2021 12:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBIn the 62nd episode my guest is Charles Phipps , who is a Licensed Master Social Worker and owner or Paradigm Counseling . Charles is also a Certified Addiction Counselor who shares his expertise on " Addiction and Relationships" . Charles shares information on the stages of addiction, including how the pandemic has impacted substance use and addiction. Listen to Charles share how alcohol and other drugs impact the body and relationships. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxi...
Addiction and Relationships
April 19, 2021 12:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBIn the 62nd episode my guest is Charles Phipps , who is a Licensed Master Social Worker and owner or Paradigm Counseling . Charles is also a Certified Addiction Counselor who shares his expertise on " Addiction and Relationships" . Charles shares information on the stages of addiction, including how the pandemic has impacted substance use and addiction. Listen to Charles share how alcohol and other drugs impact the body and relationships. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxi...
Setting Boundaries with Toxic Family Members and Friends
April 12, 2021 10:00 - 17 minutes - 11.9 MBIn the 61st episode I share strategies to help you set boundaries with toxic people in your family, friendship circle or any other relationship. Toxic people are usually self-serving and the emotions you experience when they are around include stress and anxiety. In this episode you can learn how to start saying no. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression or having relationship problems? You can find me at my website, (www.empoweringserenity.net ) or follow me ...
Setting Boundaries with Toxic Family Members and Friends
April 12, 2021 10:00 - 17 minutes - 11.9 MBIn the 61st episode I share strategies to help you set boundaries with toxic people in your family, friendship circle or any other relationship. Toxic people are usually self-serving and the emotions you experience when they are around include stress and anxiety. In this episode you can learn how to start saying no. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression or having relationship problems? You can find me at my website, (www.empoweringserenity.net ) or follow me ...
Toxic Masculinity
April 05, 2021 10:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBIn episode 60 my guest is Eric Scott , a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker , with a private practice in Southfield, Michigan. Eric shares his expertise on Toxic Masculinity . Eric helps us to understand social norms , traditions and identifies the difference between masculine behavior and toxic masculinity. He also shares insight on her to help men become more authentic and caring in their partnerships and with their families. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, d...
Toxic Masculinity
April 05, 2021 10:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBIn episode 60 my guest is Eric Scott , a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker , with a private practice in Southfield, Michigan. Eric shares his expertise on Toxic Masculinity . Eric helps us to understand social norms , traditions and identifies the difference between masculine behavior and toxic masculinity. He also shares insight on her to help men become more authentic and caring in their partnerships and with their families. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, d...
Helping Black Men Heal from Trauma
March 22, 2021 10:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MBIn episode 59 my guest is Eric Scott , Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker with a private practice in Southfield, Michigan. Eric gives some dynamic information on Black Men and Trauma . He provides insight into the types of trauma that black men suffer and provides an analysis along with strategies of how best to help them face the myriad of challenges that they encounter. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression or having relationship problems? You can find me...
Helping Black Men Heal from Trauma
March 22, 2021 10:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MBIn episode 59 my guest is Eric Scott , Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker with a private practice in Southfield, Michigan. Eric gives some dynamic information on Black Men and Trauma . He provides insight into the types of trauma that black men suffer and provides an analysis along with strategies of how best to help them face the myriad of challenges that they encounter. Are you in need of coaching or counseling for anxiety, depression or having relationship problems? You can find me...
Helping Teens With Stress
March 15, 2021 12:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBIn episode #58, I am discussing ways that parents can help their teens manage stress and anxiety. As students return to school for hybrid and in-person learning some students will begin to become stressed about the change in routine. Some teens look forward to changes and others will feel that it is a challenge, because the social anxiety that they no longer had to deal with during the pandemic while learning remotely will once again become prevalent. In this episode I share ways to help yo...
Helping Teens With Stress
March 15, 2021 12:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBIn episode #58, I am discussing ways that parents can help their teens manage stress and anxiety. As students return to school for hybrid and in-person learning some students will begin to become stressed about the change in routine. Some teens look forward to changes and others will feel that it is a challenge, because the social anxiety that they no longer had to deal with during the pandemic while learning remotely will once again become prevalent. In this episode I share ways to help yo...