In this episode, Renae and therapist Jenny Nigro discuss the emotional aftermath of the holiday season, particularly focusing on the queer community. They explore the importance of self-care, reconnecting with oneself, and the need for self-compassion as individuals transition into the new year. Practical tools for mental health check-ins and finding joy in simple pleasures are also highlighted, emphasizing the significance of nurturing oneself during this time.

Takeaways

• The holiday season can lead to emotional dissociation.

• It's essential to reconnect with oneself after the holidays.

• Self-care includes basic habits like eating and sleeping.

• Be kind and patient with yourself during transitions.

• Finding joy can come from engaging the five senses.

• Simple pleasures can help ground us in difficult times.

• Mental health check-ins can be done through rating scales.

• Self-compassion is crucial for recovery and growth.

• Engaging in mindful activities can enhance joy.

• Support from others can aid in personal regeneration.

  
  

Featured Queer Moment of Joy Guest: Andres Gonzalez MFT (they/them), with Foothill Family

Therapist Bio:

Jenny Nigro ASW (they/them) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Jenny specializes in working with queer adults and older adults who struggle to understand their identity and behaviors and who desire to gain confidence and release shame from their past experiences.

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: n/a

Keywords: self-care, mental health, holidays, queer community, emotional support, self-compassion, joy, wellness, reconnecting, new year

In this episode, host Renae Johnson and therapist Ernesto Martinez discuss the complexities of navigating emotions during the holiday season, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals. They explore common challenges faced by queer folks, such as dealing with unsupportive family dynamics, managing expectations, and finding joy amidst potential disappointments.

Ernesto emphasizes the importance of agency, self-care strategies like the 'care sandwich,' and the need for open, respectful conversations during family gatherings. The episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for maintaining mental health and fostering connections during the holidays.

Takeaways

• Holidays can bring mixed emotions and unexpected challenges.

• LGBTQ individuals have agency in their family relationships.

• It's okay to stay connected to unsupportive family members for various reasons.

• Expectations can be fluid and should be reassessed based on context.

• Disappointment can arise from unmet expectations, but context matters.

• Conversations should focus on understanding rather than convincing others.

• Using a scale to assess comfort levels can help navigate family dynamics.

• Finding joy and care is essential during the holiday season.

• Pre-care and aftercare can help manage anxiety around family gatherings.

• Chosen family plays a crucial role in supporting mental health.

  
  

Featured Queer Moment of Joy Guest: Crystal Whiteaker with Crystal Lily Creative. To learn more about Crystal visit https://www.crystallily.co/ or on Instagram @crystallilycreative

Therapist Bio:

Ernesto Martinez APCC, AMFT (they/elle/he/el) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Ernesto specializes in working with Adults, Teens, & Parents of Gender Expansive Children, Adult Children of (im)Migrants to transform challenges into stepping stones towards self-compassion, fulfillment, and confidence.

Host Bio:

Renae Johnson LPCC, ATR-BC (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: n/a

Keywords: holidays, LGBTQ+, family dynamics, mental health, expectations, emotional well-being, self-care, queer affirmation, holiday tips, navigating relationships

The holidays can be tough when family gatherings make you feel the pressure to hide your true self. In this episode of My Therapist is Out!, we explore how queer individuals can navigate the season with authenticity, resilience, and joy.

Join host Renae Johnson and OSTC Clinical Director Kristen Crowe as they share strategies for staying grounded, from creating comforting transitional objects to leaning on chosen family for support. We’ll discuss finding allies within your family, setting boundaries, and even crafting new, affirming traditions that reflect who you truly are.

Whether it’s establishing a safety plan, engaging in self-care, or finding inclusive ways to celebrate, this episode offers tools and insights to help you prioritize your mental health and make the holidays more meaningful. Tune in for a conversation that’s all about creating a space where you belong.

Takeaways

• Many queer individuals feel pressured to hide their identities during family gatherings.

• Creating a transitional object can provide comfort and a sense of home.

• Engaging in activities that affirm one's identity can help during stressful family interactions.

• Chosen family can be a vital source of support during the holidays.

• It's important to establish a safety plan for emotional support before family gatherings.

• Finding allies within the family can help create new traditions.

• Self-care practices are essential for maintaining mental health during the holidays.

• Having a list of supportive contacts can ease feelings of isolation.

• Creating new holiday traditions can foster inclusivity and joy.

• Prioritizing mental health can lead to a more fulfilling holiday experience.

Featured Queer Moment of Joy Guest: Paula Outon from LA Cyclery

Instagram @lacyclery @pauridesla

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.

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