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438. The secrets of therapy FROM a therapist ft. Dr Sandra Espinoza

Shownote

We all know that therapy is amazing, in fact it’s life-changing for many people. But what does therapy actually do? And what makes a good therapist?  In today’s episode we’re joined by Dr Sandra Espinoza, Associate Professor of the Couple and Family Therapy Program at Alliant University. Our discussion includes:  * Her journey into helping others  * Why the best therapists, go to therapy  * What to look for in your therapist  * Why we can’t just rely on our friends  * Our greatest misconceptions around therapy  * Why stigma and affordability continue to be the biggest barriers  * How Alliant University is leading the next generation of helpers and therapists to support their communities  If you’ve ever considered therapy, been curious about therapy or want to be a therapist yourself, this is your ultimate guide.  Follow Dr Espinoza: HERE  [https://www.instagram.com/drsandraespinoza/] Find out more about Alliant University: HERE [https://www.alliant.edu/] Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg [https://www.instagram.com/jemmasbeg/?hl=en#] Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast [https://www.instagram.com/thatpsychologypodcast/?hl=en#] Subscribe on Substack: @thepsychologyofyour20s [https://substack.com/@thepsychologyofyour20s] For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com [psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com]  The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Highlights

This podcast episode demystifies therapy by exploring what it actually does and what makes a good therapist, featuring an in-depth conversation with Dr. Sandra Espinoza, an associate professor and clinician. The discussion moves beyond surface-level praise of therapy to examine its practical mechanisms, the personal journey of becoming a therapist, and the systemic barriers that prevent people from seeking help.
02:50
Education wasn't enough to address home environments
08:19
Therapists must examine themselves to avoid bias
14:19
Validate their normal response to abnormal situations
17:20
Thinking you know what's best for a client is a red flag.
26:27
Therapists help clients rewrite their life stories
35:33
The skills to be a good therapist are teachable

Chapters

What does therapy actually do? An introduction to demystifying the process
00:00
From educator to therapist: Dr. Espinoza's personal journey and why therapists need therapy too
05:44
Seeing the whole picture: How family and sociopolitical contexts shape our struggles
11:10
The difference between a good therapist and a bad one: humility vs. knowing it all
17:20
Why therapy isn't just friendship: treatment plans, challenges, and rewriting your story
23:30
Breaking down barriers: cultural taboos, stigma, and finding affordable help
29:17

Transcript

Jemma Sbeg: This is an iHeart Podcast. Guaranteed human. We talk a lot on the show about how difficult it can be to figure out who you are, what matters to you, and how to build a meaningful future. That's where Alliant University comes in. Bring your inst...