existential psychotherapy |

April Fool’s Day and Resilience April 1, 2015

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Ed Zara

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of humor, pain, and resilience, particularly in the context of April Fool’s Day. He discusses the impact of cognitive dissonance, the importance of trustworthiness in fostering resilience, and the challenges faced by children and adults dealing with trauma. Guest Ed Zara shares insights on helping children recover and build resilience through honest relationships. The conversation delves into the deeper emotional struggles individuals face and the significance of being present and trustworthy in the healing process.

Getting to Know You July 9, 2014

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Giullian Gioiello

Category: Emotional Communication Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of intimacy and the challenge of truly knowing oneself and others. He discusses the importance of vulnerability in relationships and the fear of rejection that often prevents individuals from being fully open. Through engaging dialogue with his guest Giullian Gioiello and callers, Armand emphasizes the need for genuine connections and the role of therapy in understanding oneself. The conversation touches on the concept of ‘grokking’—a deep understanding of another person—and how it relates to love and acceptance in relationships.

Love and Its Complexities March 26, 2014

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Giullian Gioiello, Linda Vanella

Category: Emotional Communication Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the intricate nature of love and its impact on human relationships. Joined by guests Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Giullian Gioiello, they delve into the challenges therapists face when addressing love in their practice. The conversation touches on the definitions of normalcy, the role of mirror neurons in relationships, and the often exaggerated emotions associated with love. Through engaging discussions and listener calls, the episode highlights the complexities of love, including its potential to block personal growth and the various ways individuals bond with one another.

Dignity and Self-Respect September 18, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Majid Ali

Category: Emotional and Social Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of dignity and its relationship with self-respect. He discusses how individuals often abdicate their dignity through justifications and denial, particularly in the context of cheating and exploitation. Through anecdotes and reflections, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s self-worth and the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures that affect dignity, particularly in relation to health issues like diabetes and the emotional struggles faced by individuals. Ultimately, Armand encourages listeners to confront their realities and restore their sense of dignity.

Funny Thinking September 17, 2013

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of ‘funny thinking’—irrational beliefs that lead to emotional disturbance and unhappiness. He discusses how our thoughts can create stress and affect our spirit, particularly in the context of physical illness and emotional challenges. Armand shares insights from his experiences as a psychotherapist, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and the dangers of seeking external validation. He provides a list of common irrational thoughts and encourages listeners to identify their feelings to better understand their emotional states. This episode aims to help individuals recognize and challenge their funny thinking patterns for a more positive mindset.

Rejection September 4, 2013

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Personal Growth and Identity

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complex nature of rejection and its impact on our lives. He explores how rejection is often perceived as a negative experience, leading to feelings of worthlessness and disappointment. However, he argues that rejection is not an emotion but a perception of someone’s behavior. DeMille encourages listeners to examine their feelings and reactions to rejection, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and understanding. He also delves into the roots of creativity and how it can be stifled by societal expectations, urging listeners to embrace their creative spirit as a means of personal growth and fulfillment.

Understanding Migraines and Headaches August 28, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Fred Sheftel

Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele interviews Dr. Fred Sheftel, a specialist in migraine headaches. They explore the complexities of different types of headaches, including tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. Dr. Sheftel explains the symptoms, causes, and misconceptions surrounding these conditions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the severity of migraines compared to regular headaches. The conversation also touches on the challenges patients face in getting proper treatment and the need for a collaborative relationship between doctors and patients. This insightful discussion aims to educate listeners about the realities of living with chronic headaches.

Bipolar Disorder and Dementia Insights May 8, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Ronald Feevey, Giullian Gioiello

Category: Mental Health and Music

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the connections between depression, dementia, and bipolar disorder, offering a unique perspective on these mental health issues. He highlights recent studies linking late-life depression to an increased risk of dementia, particularly vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Armand emphasizes the importance of addressing depression in the elderly and suggests that music therapy may help activate memory in Alzheimer’s patients. He also explores the complexities of bipolar disorder, including its manic and depressive phases, and the societal implications of these conditions. With insights from personal experiences and research, this episode aims to reframe our understanding of mental health challenges.

Exploring the Impact of Love on Well-Being April 2, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Scott Baum

Category: Family and Relationship Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele speaks with Dr. Scott Baum about the essential role of love in human well-being. They discuss how love affects emotional and physical health, particularly during childhood development. Dr. Baum shares insights from his experience as a bioenergetic psychotherapist, explaining how the absence of love can lead to physical manifestations of emotional distress. The conversation delves into the complexities of intimacy, the body-mind connection, and the importance of nurturing relationships for personal growth. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences with love and its impact on their lives.

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.