Episodes

  • LGBTQ+ Holiday Tools: Navigating Political Convos

    LGBTQ+ Holiday Tools: Navigating Political Convos
    Nov 27 2024
    The holidays can be a minefield of emotions for LGBTQ+ individuals. Between family dynamics, societal pressures, and the potential for isolation, staying mentally healthy can feel like a challenge. In this heartfelt and practical episode of My Therapist is Out!, host Renae Johnson and therapist Terra Friedman unpack the unique stressors the season brings and share actionable strategies to help you not just survive—but thrive. In this conversation, Renae and therapist Terra discuss navigating the complexities of the holiday season, particularly for the queer community. They explore the emotional challenges that arise during family gatherings, the importance of setting boundaries, and practical tips for maintaining mental health. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, joy, and self-care during this time, offering insights into how to create a supportive environment for oneself and others. From setting boundaries and creating affirming traditions to finding joy in chosen family, we’re here to help you prioritize your well-being. Plus, stick around for your queer moment of joy—a sweet reminder that celebration and resilience go hand in hand. Takeaways Holidays can evoke complex emotions, especially for queer individuals. Setting boundaries is crucial for mental health during family gatherings. It's important to communicate your boundaries ahead of time. Redirecting conversations can help avoid political debates. Finding joy in community is essential during the holidays. Using virtual connections can help maintain community ties. Engaging with queer content can enhance holiday experiences. Practicing self-care is vital to enjoy the holiday season. Check-in protocols with friends or family can provide support. Slowing down can help prevent overwhelm during busy holiday times. Featured Queer Moment of Joy Guest: Antone Martinez, nail tech at Folklore Salon in Cypress Park. For more from Antone visit @littlebrothernails and @folklore.la Therapist Bio: Terra Friedman AFMT (she/her) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Terra specializes in working with high achieving womxn who experience anxiety. Terra also works with couples and partners who are currently in or exploring non-monogamous relationships. Host Bio: Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies. Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective TikTok: @openspacetherapy Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Content transparency: family conflict, politics Keywords: holidays, queer community, mental health, boundaries, traditions, family dynamics, joy, community connection, emotional well-being, self-care Chapters 00:00 Navigating Holiday Emotions and Traditions 03:32 Challenges for the Queer Community During Holidays 06:33 Setting Boundaries for Mental Health 09:37 Finding Joy and Community in Queer Affirmation 12:37 Mental Health Check-ins and Resources 13:04 MTIO-QJ Antone Martinez Folklore
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    15 mins
  • We're Taking a Short Break

    We're Taking a Short Break
    Nov 8 2024

    We are taking a short break to do some self-care and regroup after this week’s election results. But we’ll be back in less than a month!

    In the meantime:

    🌈 Take Care of YourselfSelf-care isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the fuel for long-term activism and resilience. Rest, eat, drink water, and check in with yourself. This fight needs you strong, so prioritize your well-being. 💖

    🤝 Connect with Your Loved OnesCommunity is our backbone. Spend time with people who lift you up, understand your journey, and support your vision. This connection is a reminder that none of us are in this alone.

    💬 Honor Your FeelingsIt’s normal to feel a mix of emotions during times like these. Whether it’s joy, frustration, or exhaustion, allow yourself to experience each feeling fully. Processing these emotions makes space for the work ahead.

    🔄 RegroupTake time to center yourself and strategize. Reflect on what’s working, what needs support, and what role you want to play next. Together, we can identify the next steps with clarity and purpose.

    🚀 Get Back Into ActionOur journey toward equality didn’t start with this election, and it won’t end here. Every action counts, every voice matters, and we are building the world we believe in, step by step. Keep going with the knowledge that we’re making an impact.

    ✨ Want proof? See our social media posts for some incredible wins from this election cycle that remind us we’re moving forward! ➡️ Thank you to the teams at @them @impact @latimes for highlighting these important milestones.


    Host Bio:

    Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies.

    Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses.


    To find more from us visit:

    Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

    Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

    TikTok: @openspacetherapy

    Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

    Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

    YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective


    Content transparency: cultural trauma
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    2 mins
  • Can Rage Ever be Healthy? with Debbie Whyte APCC, ATR (she/her)

    Can Rage Ever be Healthy? with Debbie Whyte APCC, ATR (she/her)
    Oct 23 2024

    This week host Renae Johnson (they/them) and OSTC therapist Debbie Whyte (she/her) explore if rage can be healthy. Feeling overwhelmed by rage? You’re not alone. For many of us in the LGBTQ+ community, anger is tied to lived experiences of discrimination.

    In this episode we answer:

    • Ugh I get so angry. Sometimes I just need to scream. Is this ok?

    • Can rage help me feel motivated? Sometimes it’s the only thing that gets me going.

    • I have lived with depression and rage for a lot of my life. It’s who I am and I don’t want to give that up. Is therapy supposed to change me?

    • The world is turned against queer and trans people and I am just infuriated all the time. I feel like my rage is controlling me but there’s so much to be upset about!

    • My partner only listens to me if I yell at them. And they REALLY piss me off sometimes. Is it healthy to freak out on them when I’m upset? It’s just me being authentic about how I feel.

    Join us as we unpack and embrace rage as an important part of the human experience. What healthy outlets do you use to process these emotions?

    Therapist Bio:

    Debbie Whyte ATR, APCC (she/her) Is an Associate Therapist and Art Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Debbie specializes in working with queer and BIPOC teens and young adults who are looking to grow into themselves and find their voice.

    Host Bio:

    Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies.

    Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses.

    To find more from us visit:

    Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

    Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

    TikTok: @openspacetherapy

    Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

    Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

    YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

    Content transparency: cultural trauma

    Discussed in this episode: RageGround LA
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    29 mins
  • Mission Driven LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship

    Mission Driven LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship
    Oct 9 2024
    In this episode of My Therapist is Out!, we’re meeting with Dr. Liz Lasky and celebrating LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who are doing more than just building businesses—they’re creating change. From breaking barriers to leading with purpose, we’ll explore what it means to be mission-driven in the world of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship. We’ll talk about being a queer business owner who's turned their passions into impactful ventures, whether it’s creating inclusive spaces, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, or providing products and services that reflect our community’s unique needs. We’ll also cover the mental health side of things—how to stay grounded and focused when your mission is deeply personal. Join us for an inspiring and practical look at what it takes to thrive as a queer entrepreneur with a purpose. Expect real stories, tips for navigating challenges, and a whole lot of pride! Guest Bio: Dr. Liz Lasky, PhD, LCSW, is the founder and CEO of The Lasky Institute of Coaching™, The Coach Training Program For Helping Professionals™ and lizlasky.com. Dr. Liz has a commitment to helping people get what they want in business, life, and love. She is the author of the book “Get What You Want”© as well as several peer-reviewed journal articles. After 15 years of successfully counseling, coaching, and mentoring thousands of people, Dr. Liz came to understand that personal transformation requires not just taking action but a change in mindset that comes from personal growth. She found that coaching expedites these processes. Dr. Liz Lasky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NY State, MSW from Yeshiva University). She holds a PhD from Yeshiva University in Social Welfare. She is also a New York University Certified Coach and holds the International Coach Federation credential of Associate Certified Coach (ACC). She is an adjunct professor at Fordham University. She is a published author (both in peer reviewed academic journals and her own book), a professional expert for Bravo TV, and presents her research on coaching single women internationally, most notably at Harvard University. She is also a proud Fellow of The Institute of Coaching at McLean Hospital, Harvard University. To find more about Dr. Liz Lasky: Website: https://www.lizlasky.com/ Instagram: @lizlasky Host Bio: Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies. Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective TikTok: @openspacetherapy Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Content transparency: n/a
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    37 mins
  • Can you have healthy relationships if you only saw toxic ones modeled in your family? with Kristen Crowe (they/she)

    Can you have healthy relationships if you only saw toxic ones modeled in your family? with Kristen Crowe (they/she)
    Sep 26 2024

    Ever feel like your relationship blueprint is straight out of a toxic family playbook? In this episode of My Therapist is Out!, host Renae Johnson (they/them) and therapist Kristen Crowe (they/she) ask the big question: "Can you actually have healthy relationships if all you’ve seen are the messy, dysfunctional ones growing up?"

    Spoiler alert: Yes, you can—but it’s a journey. We’re digging into what it takes to shake off the patterns you grew up with and figure out what a healthy connection even looks like. From setting boundaries to identifying red flags, we’ll chat with a therapist who’s seen it all, and hear from listeners who’ve successfully broken free from the drama-filled cycles of their past.

    Think you’re destined to repeat history? Not on our watch. Grab your tea (or something stronger) and let’s get real about what it takes to rewrite the relationship script you inherited.


    Therapist Bio:

    Kristen Crowe LPCC, BC-DMT (she/they) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day.


    Host Bio:

    Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies.

    Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses.


    To find more from us visit:

    Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

    Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

    TikTok: @openspacetherapy

    Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

    Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

    YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective


    Content transparency: family conflict
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    34 mins
  • What to Look for When Choosing Your Chosen Family with Debbie Whyte (she/her)

    What to Look for When Choosing Your Chosen Family with Debbie Whyte (she/her)
    Sep 11 2024

    This week host Renae Johnson (they/them) and OSTC therapist Debbie Whyte (she/her) explore how to be open and discerning when searching for chosen family. Finding your chosen family takes time. It’s all about surrounding yourself with those who really see and support you. But how do you actually do that?


    In this episode we discuss:

    • What does it mean to “choose” your family? Are these just your friends?

    • It’s hard to find friends and close people in your community, much less, “choose” them. Should I be cutting people out if I see a red flag?

    • I’m trying to figure out what to do for the holidays and I don’t know if I can count on my chosen family to be there for me. Does this mean they’re not up to par?

    • If I decide to have a chosen family, does this mean I am leaving my related family behind?

    • I’ve never been close with my related family, and I moved to LA because there was nothing back there for me. I’m usually only close to people I’m sleeping with. Am I supposed to choose a family from this?

    Join us as we dive into the real process of Choosing your family and finding people who genuinely get you.


    Therapist Bio:

    Debbie Whyte ATR, APCC (she/her) Is an Associate Therapist and Art Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Debbie specializes in working with queer and BIPOC teens and young adults who are looking to grow into themselves and find their voice.


    Host Bio:

    Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies.

    Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses.


    To find more from us visit:

    Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

    Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

    TikTok: @openspacetherapy

    Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

    Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

    YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

    Content transparency: family dynamics
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    34 mins
  • Live Beyond ACEs & Toxic Stress Awareness Campaign

    Live Beyond ACEs & Toxic Stress Awareness Campaign
    Aug 27 2024
    This week, host Renae Johnson (they/them) is joined by ACEs awareness advocates Dr. John Blosnich (he/him) and Juniper Brown (he/they) to explore the importance of understanding and healing from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the long-lasting adverse effects of this toxic stress. In this episode we discuss: Importance of Freedom from Pain: Recovery and resilience-building should aim for freedom from pain, not just better pain management, as emphasized by LGBTQ activist Juniper Brown. California's Live Beyond Campaign: The state is investing in educational campaigns like Live Beyond to increase awareness of ACEs and provide accessible tools and resources for healing. Impact of ACEs and Toxic Stress: ACEs and toxic stress can affect relationships and health well into adulthood, but simple activities like exercise and sleep can significantly aid in healing. Community Support in Healing: Juniper Brown's story highlights how finding a supportive community can be a crucial step in overcoming fear and starting the healing process. Accessible Resources for All: ACEs are not destiny; there are resources available to everyone, and even small steps can have a big impact on one's future. Join us as we explore how our past experiences shape us. While they don't define us, they can leave a lasting impact on our mental and physical health, as well as our relationships. ACEs are not our fault—we had no control over when or why they occurred. However, we can move beyond ACEs and take meaningful steps toward healing. This episode is Sponsored by the Live Beyond ACEs and toxic stress awareness campaign developed by the Office of the California Surgeon General. To find resources and support visit livebeyondca.org or follow them on TikTok or Instagram @livebeyondca Guests: Juniper Brown (he/they) serves as a Youth Advocate with the Live Beyond ACEs campaign. He is passionate about sharing his experience and healing process related to ACEs, hoping to inspire others to do the same. In addition to being a mental health advocate, Juniper is pursuing his dream of becoming a veterinarian for exotic animals, with a special interest in cavies. Learn more about Juniper’s ACEs story at https://livebeyondca.org/stories/juniper/. Dr. John Blosnich (he/him) serves on the advisory board of the Live Beyond ACEs campaign. He is an associate professor and the director of the Center for LGBTQ+ Health Equity at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. Dr. Blosnich's primary area of expertise is disparities in suicide risk and prevention among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ+) individuals, with a specific emphasis on social determinants of health. He has conducted numerous studies utilizing secondary analyses of existing survey data, helping to fill gaps in knowledge about LGBTQ+ health. Learn more about Dr. Blosnich’s work with the Surgeon General’s ACEs awareness program at https://osg.ca.gov/theacescampaign/. Host Bio: Renae Johnson (they/them) is the founder of Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub focused on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, as well as their allies. Renae is a licensed therapist and board-certified art therapist specializing in working with queer artists exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Before founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and serving as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations supporting people with complex co-occurring diagnoses. To find more from us visit: Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective TikTok: @openspacetherapy Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective Content transparency: childhood abuse
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    57 mins
  • Can Therapy Help with Pain During Sex? with Kristen Crowe, LPCC, BC-DMT (they/she)

    Can Therapy Help with Pain During Sex? with Kristen Crowe, LPCC, BC-DMT (they/she)
    Aug 14 2024

    This week host Renae Johnson (they/them) and Kristen Crowe (they/she) explore how pain during sex can be more (or not) than just physical symptoms. Our somatic experience, even during pleasure is uniquely tied to our subconscious, personal history, and relationship dynamics.

    In this episode we discuss:

    • I’m wondering if there’s something wrong with me. I feel like I’m attracted to people but after painful sexual experiences, if makes me wonder if sex is for me.

    • I often experience pain during penetrative sex. I can’t help but feeling like I’m letting my partners down but I just have to stop sometimes.

    • Why after years of having sex in the same exciting ways has it turned painful recently? Is something wrong with me?

    • Sex has always been painful for me and I’m coming to the realization that this isn’t normal, or maybe it’s normal for me but it shouldn’t be.

    Join us as we dive into the fun pleasure and unexpected pain your sex life can bring.


    Therapist Bio:

    Kristen Crowe LPCC, BC-DMT (she/they) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day.

    Host Bio:

    Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies.

    Renae is a licensed therapist and board certified art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in non-profit organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses.

    To find more from us visit:

    Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

    Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

    TikTok: @openspacetherapy

    Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

    Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

    YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

    Content transparency: sexuality, trauma
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    36 mins