personal growth |

Graduate Class in Positive Psychology June 19, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lisa Arnone

Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Lisa Arnone delve into the complexities of human behavior, particularly focusing on dependency and independence in relationships. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals with dependent personality traits, exploring how these traits manifest in therapy and everyday life. Through engaging dialogue, they emphasize the importance of understanding oneself and others without judgment, highlighting the significance of compassion and connection in fostering personal growth. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of relationships, the role of therapists, and the journey towards self-discovery and empowerment.

Understanding Thinking Styles in Therapy June 13, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lisa Arnone

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele and his guest Lisa Arnone delve into the various thinking styles that influence how individuals perceive and interact with the world. They categorize thinking into four main styles: concrete sequential, concrete random, abstract sequential, and abstract random. Each style affects decision-making, emotional responses, and therapeutic approaches. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these styles in both therapists and clients to foster effective communication and understanding in therapy. The hosts explore how these styles can lead to collaboration or conflict, and how awareness of them can enhance therapeutic relationships.

Understanding Feelings and Emotions June 12, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lisa Arnone, Michael G. Haskins

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of feelings and emotions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the difference between the two. He discusses how professionals communicate in diagnostic terms that patients often find confusing, and aims to teach psychological concepts in accessible language. Joined by Lisa Arnone, they delve into the physiological sensations associated with feelings, the impulses that arise from them, and the behaviors that follow. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing and processing feelings for emotional well-being, while also addressing common misconceptions in therapy about feelings versus thoughts.

Worrying: Understanding the Roots and Effects April 18, 2012

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the nature of worrying, its origins, and its impact on our lives. He discusses how worrying can stem from deep-seated fears of abandonment and rejection, often rooted in childhood experiences. DeMille highlights the maladaptive schemas that contribute to a person’s tendency to worry and the psychological traps that can ensnare individuals. He emphasizes that while concern can be healthy, excessive worry is unproductive and can hinder problem-solving abilities. The episode encourages listeners to understand their worries and find healthier ways to cope.

Losing Control April 11, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella

Category: Emotional Intelligence and Communication

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of losing control, particularly in the context of anger and compulsive behaviors. He explores how various factors, including alcohol, emotional wounds, and hormonal influences, can lead to moments of rage or impulsivity. The conversation delves into the psychological underpinnings of these reactions and the importance of honesty in expressing emotions. Armand emphasizes that losing control is not a normal response and encourages listeners to understand the triggers behind their feelings. The episode also addresses the societal pressures that can inhibit self-expression and the need for healthy coping mechanisms.

Living the High Road April 4, 2012

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Human Behavior Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of ‘living the high road’ as inspired by his friend Ricky Rohr. He discusses the complexities of human relationships, particularly how neuroses can sometimes serve as strengths. Armand delves into various personality disorders and their impact on relationships, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one’s own role in these dynamics. He encourages listeners to reflect on their motivations and the power they derive from their interactions, ultimately advocating for a more peaceful and self-aware approach to life and relationships.

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.

Powerlessness March 21, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella

Category: Psychological Challenges and Growth

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella explore the concept of powerlessness and its impact on mental health. They discuss how feelings of powerlessness can lead to depression, particularly when combined with self-directed anger. The hosts delve into various aspects of power, including addiction, love, and societal expectations, while emphasizing the importance of recognizing and accepting one’s limitations. Through listener calls, they highlight personal experiences and the struggle to regain control in the face of uncontrollable circumstances. The conversation encourages self-reflection and the pursuit of support from others.

Money Makes the World Go Round March 20, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella, Nick Papadopoulos

Category: Money and Psychology

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses attitudes towards money with guest Nick Papadopoulos, a coach specializing in financial mindset. They explore how personal experiences and familial relationships shape our perceptions of money, emphasizing that many feelings of financial inadequacy stem from attitudes rather than actual circumstances. The conversation delves into the societal meanings attached to money, the difference between abundance and scarcity mindsets, and how these perspectives influence financial decisions. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own money attitudes and consider how to shift towards a more empowering view.

Interpreting Dreams and Human Relationships March 14, 2012

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Intimacy and Relationship Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the psychological aspects of sexuality and familial connections. He discusses how early experiences with parents can shape adult behavior, especially in romantic contexts. The conversation delves into the motivations behind sexual encounters, the search for nurturing figures, and the impact of trauma on intimacy. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider the deeper meanings behind their relationships and desires.