The Positive Mind

Keyword: cognitive behavioral therapy

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Addictions, Compulsions, and Self-Destructive Behaviors August 7, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Andrew Tatarski, Deborah Hillman, Dr. Harold Urschel, Emily Anthes, Roberta Maria Atzi
Category: Psychological Challenges and Growth

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complex nature of addictions, compulsions, and self-destructive behaviors. He discusses how feelings of loneliness and disconnection can lead individuals to seek solace in various forms of dependency, including substance abuse and compulsive behaviors. The episode features insights from various specialists and examines the psychological roots of addiction, including the ‘refugee syndrome’ and the impact of societal expectations on men’s relationships with addiction. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own behaviors and consider the underlying emotional needs that may drive them.

Anxiety: Friend or Foe March 26, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Sarah Denning
Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of anxiety with Dr. Sarah Denning, founder of Adaptive Behavioral Therapy. They explore the nature of anxiety, its mechanisms, and how it can serve both as a motivator and a hindrance. Dr. Denning introduces her Anxiety Notebook Series, emphasizing the importance of identifying anxiety levels and understanding their origins. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing anxiety, including recognizing physical symptoms, the role of movement, and the significance of resensitizing oneself to lower levels of stress. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their anxiety constructively and learn to navigate its challenges.

Anxiety, Excitement, and Fear March 20, 2013

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of anxiety, excitement, and fear, particularly focusing on phobias. He discusses the concept of secondary gain associated with phobias, explaining how they can serve as a means of avoiding responsibilities. The episode delves into various types of phobias, including agoraphobia and simple phobias, and highlights the psychological mechanisms behind them. Armand also touches on obsessive-compulsive disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder, emphasizing the importance of understanding these conditions to lead a healthier life. Through engaging anecdotes and insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how anxiety disorders manifest and can be addressed.

Hypnosis and Suggestibility July 3, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lisa Arnone
Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the intricacies of suggestibility and hypnosis, emphasizing the importance of a client’s willingness to accept suggestions for effective therapy. He shares various techniques he employs in psychotherapy, including unique methods to gauge emotional responses and identify potential organic disorders. Armand also explores the dynamics of client-therapist relationships, the significance of self-awareness, and the impact of emotional expression on mental health. Through engaging dialogues, he illustrates how therapists can guide clients to better understand their feelings and thoughts, ultimately fostering personal growth and healing.

Celebrating Different Perspectives April 3, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Joanna, John Valerio, Lisa Arnone
Category: Gratitude and Mindfulness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of perceiving life without judgment, emphasizing that not everything needs to be viewed positively. He discusses the importance of recognizing the strength in our perceived weaknesses, such as depression and paranoia, and how these feelings can serve a purpose in our lives. Through various examples, including a little girl’s drawing and personal anecdotes, Armand encourages listeners to embrace their complexities and celebrate their unique perspectives. The episode also features a birthday celebration for Joanna and insights into the power dynamics in relationships.

Understanding Paranoia and Its Types December 13, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella
Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Linda Vanella Vanella Van Allen delve into the complexities of paranoia, discussing its various forms and the psychological implications behind them. They explore the nature of paranoia, including its unfounded distrust of others and its connection to mental health conditions like schizophrenia and personality disorders. The conversation highlights real-life examples, the impact of paranoia on relationships, and the importance of understanding its roots. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences with fear and paranoia, and how these feelings can manifest in everyday life.

Sexual Obsessions and Anxiety November 9, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Booker Irvin, Kent Robertshaw, Linda Vanella
Category: Mental Health Challenges

In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities of sexual obsession and its relationship with anxiety disorders. They explore how obsessive thoughts about sex can interfere with personal relationships and daily life, and the physiological components that contribute to these behaviors. The conversation delves into societal judgments surrounding sexuality, the impact of medications on sexual desire, and the importance of understanding the underlying causes of sexual compulsions. With insights from psychiatry, the episode aims to destigmatize discussions about sexual health and urges listeners to consider the broader implications of sexual behavior in their lives.

Adaptive Behavioral Therapy and Understanding Anxiety April 12, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Sarah Denning
Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Denning discusses her insights on anxiety, drawing from her work with the Anxiety Notebook Series. She explains how anxiety is learned as a behavioral response from early experiences and explores the neurological mechanisms behind it. The conversation covers the spectrum of anxiety, from mild discomfort to panic attacks, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing anxiety triggers. Dr. Denning introduces practical strategies for identifying and managing anxiety, including the significance of physical movement and mindfulness. The episode aims to equip listeners with tools to understand and cope with their anxiety more effectively.

My Mind is Not Always My Friend September 30, 2010

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Stephanie D'Ambra, Stephen Fogle
Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of the mind and how it can sometimes work against us. Joined by guests Stephen Fogle and Stephanie D’Ambra, they explore themes of overreacting, the influence of past experiences on present behavior, and the importance of self-awareness in managing our thoughts. Fogle shares insights from his book, emphasizing that our minds can be both friends and foes, depending on how we interpret our experiences. The conversation delves into the chemistry of the brain, the role of the amygdala, and practical strategies for recognizing and addressing negative thought patterns.

Catastrophizing: The Fine Art of Worrying July 1, 2010

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Angela, Christina, Reiner Heilregel, Sherry Oren King, Stephanie D'Ambra, Tony Thomas
Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the concept of catastrophizing, where individuals perceive minor issues as major disasters. He explores how this mindset can lead to anxiety and self-fulfilling prophecies of failure. Through anecdotes and psychological insights, Armand emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these irrational thoughts. He offers practical techniques to combat catastrophizing, including writing down fears and assessing their likelihood. The conversation also touches on the role of friends and support systems in overcoming these negative thought patterns. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to embrace the present and find their inner strength.