The Nest Podcast and Blog
Listen up.
You can listen to my podcast on Spotify where I talk with special guests who are local therapists about creating the life, love, and relationships you want.
New episodes or blogs posted bi-weekly.
SZN. 4 Ep. 15/ When Reality Shifts After Birth: Understanding Postpartum Psychosis
Learn about postpartum psychosis, a rare but serious mental health condition that can occur after childbirth. This article explains early warning signs such as confusion, hallucinations, paranoia, and mood changes, and highlights how it differs from postpartum depression and anxiety. It also outlines why immediate support is critical and what treatment and recovery can look like. Includes practical guidance for partners and caregivers, along with trusted mental health resources for urgent and ongoing support.
SZN. 4 Ep. 14/The Hidden Impact of Cancer: How a Diagnosis Affects Mental Health
The Hidden Impact of Cancer: How a Diagnosis Affects Mental Health
A cancer diagnosis impacts far more than physical health—it can significantly affect emotional and mental well-being for both patients and their loved ones. This article highlights the wide range of psychological challenges individuals may face, including anxiety, depression, isolation, and shifts in identity and relationships. It also emphasizes the often-overlooked impact on caregivers and children, who may experience their own emotional strain. Ultimately, the post underscores the importance of integrating mental health support—through therapy, community, and open communication—into cancer care to promote more holistic healing and resilience.
SZN. 4 Ep. 13/You Don’t Have to Be in a Good Mood Just Because It’s Spring
Spring often brings pressure to feel happier and more energized—but mental health doesn’t shift overnight. This post explores why you don’t have to feel good just because the weather improves, and how therapy can be most effective when you’re feeling more regulated.
SZN. 4 Ep. 12/ A Survivor’s Guide to Reporting Sexual Assault: Understanding Your Options
Deciding whether to report sexual assault can be one of the most difficult and personal decisions a survivor faces. For many, the process brings up complex emotions, uncertainty, and questions about what reporting actually involves. While some survivors find empowerment in taking formal steps, others may choose different paths toward healing — and every choice deserves respect. Understanding the options available can help survivors feel more informed, supported, and in control as they consider what feels right for them.
SZN. 4 Ep. 11/ Talking With Clients About the Current State of Our Country
In times of heightened political and social uncertainty, many clients are experiencing overwhelm, anger, fear, or emotional numbness—and these reactions are both understandable and shared. This article explores how therapists can support clients through validation, normalization, and nervous system regulation while integrating DBT-informed skills such as emotion labeling, distress tolerance, mindfulness, interpersonal boundaries, and Wise Mind decision-making. By encouraging balanced media consumption, values-aligned action, and realistic boundaries with others and with one’s own mental space, clinicians can help clients move from dysregulation and helplessness toward steadiness, agency, and a life that feels meaningful—even in the midst of ongoing uncertainty.
SZN. 4 Ep. 10/ Why You Can Feel Lonely Even When You’re Surrounded by People
Loneliness isn’t always about being alone—it’s about feeling unseen or emotionally disconnected. This article breaks down why loneliness can exist even in full social lives and offers therapeutic insight and gentle steps toward more authentic, nourishing connection.
SZN. 4 Ep. 9/ Love Beyond Romance: What Emotionally Safe Relationships Really Feel Like
Love Beyond Romance: What Emotionally Safe Relationships February often centers romantic love, but meaningful connection goes far beyond that. This post explores what emotionally safe relationships actually feel like, how to recognize healthy versus draining dynamics, and why safety—not chemistry—is the foundation of true connection.
SZN. 4 Ep. 8/ Why Resolutions Fail—And How to Create Real Change in 2026
Many New Year’s resolutions fail—around 80% by mid-February—often not due to lack of willpower, but because of rigid goals, outcome-focused thinking, external pressures, and ignoring the body’s stress response. Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, explains that lasting change in 2026 comes from a different approach: anchoring goals in personal values, breaking habits into micro-steps, practicing somatic grounding, redefining success through self-compassion, and building supportive systems rather than chasing perfection. By focusing on consistency, small wins, and meaningful routines, you can finally turn resolutions into sustainable growth.
SZN. 4 Ep. 7/ Beyond Resolutions: Rethinking Change Before the New Year
Instead of chasing “New Year, New You” resolutions that often fail by February, Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, suggests a values-based approach to meaningful growth. Resolutions fail because they’re externally motivated, rigid, and disconnected from personal values. Sustainable change comes from reflecting on what’s already working, releasing what no longer serves you, and setting intentions rather than rigid goals. Practical strategies include conducting a compassionate year-in-review, choosing micro-goals that honor your nervous system, and finding supportive accountability. By focusing on self-compassion, intrinsic motivation, and small, safe steps, you can enter the New Year aligned with your values and build lasting, authentic growth.
SZN. 4 Ep. 5/ Holiday Anxiety and Family Triggers
The holidays can heighten stress and anxiety, especially around family gatherings. Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, explains that unresolved family dynamics, old roles, and past trauma often trigger intense emotional responses during the season. Common stressors include conflict, financial pressure, and the expectation of “perfect” celebrations. Effective strategies for managing holiday anxiety include setting realistic expectations, establishing boundaries, using somatic coping tools, limiting alcohol and caffeine, focusing on small moments of joy, and creating an exit plan. By preparing mentally and practicing self-compassion, you can navigate family gatherings with greater calm and resilience.

