A Therapist and Her Inner Circle

About A Therapist and Her Inner Circle

A Therapist and Her Inner Circle offers real, unscripted conversations at the intersection of therapy, relationships, and being human. Each episode invites you into thoughtful dialogue with people from the host’s inner circle, blending therapeutic insight with lived experience. This podcast is about connection over perfection, curiosity over certainty, and the real work of being in a relationship—with ourselves and others.

Publisher

Aven Barbosa

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Jan 2026

Latest episode

7 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Jun 2026

   Healing People Pleasing & Becoming Your Authentic Self w/ Courtney Buchanan

   In this episode of A Therapist and Her Inner Circle, I sit down with Courtney Buchanan for an honest conversation about identity, people-pleasing, authenticity, and the long road to healing. Courtney shares how years of therapy and intentional inner work helped her move from surviving to truly thriving — learning to stop performing for acceptance and begin living more fully as herself. Together, we explore: • Childhood roles and early attachment patterns • How people pleasing develops • The fear of disappointing others • What it means to become unapologetically authentic • The grief that can come with personal growth • Boundaries, relationships, and self-trust • How therapy helps us reconnect with who we truly are This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt like they had to shrink themselves to belong, stay quiet to keep the peace, or become who others expected them to be. Courtney speaks vulnerably about the emotional work of healing, unlearning old narratives, and discovering that authenticity does not have to cost you your worth. Whether you are in therapy, considering therapy, or simply trying to understand yourself more deeply, this episode offers a compassionate and hopeful conversation about healing, self-acceptance, and becoming fully yourself. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not therapy or medical advice.

2. 

   18 May 2026

   The Wounds We Carry, The Work We Do

   In this episode, I sat down with another therapist for a conversation that felt honest, reflective, educational, and deeply human. We talked about our different journeys into the therapy field, what shaped us personally before we ever became clinicians, and how our own life experiences continue to influence the way we show up in the therapy room. One part of the conversation explored her experience with religious trauma and the process of untangling identity, fear, shame, and authenticity after growing up in a high-control religious environment. We also discussed OCD, how it differs from generalized anxiety, why reassurance can unintentionally strengthen obsessive cycles, and what treatment often focuses on instead. And throughout the conversation, we touched on Internal Family Systems (IFS), protective parts, self-understanding, and the ways people learn to reconnect with themselves after years of adapting for survival. You can find Josie McClard, MS at ATL Trauma Therapy. She works with adults, young adults, teens, and couples navigating OCD, trauma (including religious and complex trauma), LGBTQIA+ identity, neurodivergence, and relational challenges.

3. 

   30 Apr 2026

   Emotions, Needs, Boundaries & Growth: A 10 Episode Podcast Check-In

   Ten episodes in and I’m taking a minute to pause, reflect, and check in. In this short solo episode, I share where I am in the podcast journey, what I’m learning, and where I hope to take it next. I also spend some time talking through the real-life overlap of emotions, needs, expectations, and boundaries—how they show up in our relationships and why they can feel so hard to untangle. This one is a little more off-the-cuff, a little more personal, and an open invitation for you to be part of what this becomes. I’d love your feedback as the podcast continues to grow. As always, I would love your feedback. Share your thoughts, episode ideas, and topics you'd like to hear about. You can leave a comment or email me at aven@keycounselingatl.com. Hey, maybe YOU can be my next guest.

4. 

   1 Apr 2026

   Love Across Cultures: Navigating Race, Identity & Real Couple Dynamics

   What happens when two people from different cultures come together—and how does that shape the way they experience the world, and each other? In this episode of A Therapist and Her Inner Circle, I’m joined by Josh and Sarah—musicians, partners, and friends—for a really honest and layered conversation about navigating a cross-cultural relationship. We explore what it’s like to move between different cultural lenses, including a powerful discussion on race, the lived reality of racism in America, and how it contrasts with Sarah’s experience growing up in Denmark. We also bring it back to the everyday moments that make relationships real—like the little pet peeves that show up in even the healthiest partnerships, and how couples can navigate those without losing connection. This episode is both meaningful and personal for me—it’s my first time having a couple on the podcast, and having Josh and Sarah contribute the music for the show makes it even more special. If you’ve ever been in a relationship where differences felt hard to navigate—or deeply meaningful—this conversation will resonate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical advice. Listening does not establish a therapeutic relationship. You can find Sarah on Spotify by searching Sarah West. Below you can find Josh's Discography - all of the songs he has been a part of in some way, whether that's playing or producing. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/40AtrCsc54eBk45Uerc7an?si=ux8o3VboSDqVdlZh6OV9kw

5. 

   25 Mar 2026

   Cousins & Friendship: Motherhood, Identity & Life Transitions

   In this episode, I’m joined by my cousin, Halee, someone who has known me through so many seasons of life—for a real and honest conversation about how we grow, change, and stay connected along the way. We talk about what it was like growing up together six years apart, how our bond evolved into a true friendship, and the role our shared experiences have played in shaping who we are today. From traveling through Europe together to stepping into completely different life seasons, we reflect on how those moments quietly shaped our identities more than we realized at the time. We also explore her transition into motherhood, the emotional and identity shifts that come with it, and what it’s really like choosing to stay home in a world that often measures worth by productivity. This conversation holds space for both the beauty and the complexity of change—what we gain, what we let go of, and what remains at our core. Even though our lives look different today, this episode is a reminder that connection, shared values, and deep relationships can evolve without breaking. If you’re navigating a season of change, identity shifts, or redefining what fulfillment looks like for you, this one is for you. I’d love to hear from you—what season are you in right now? Feel free to reach out and share your thoughts or reflections. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and conversational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy. Listening does not establish a therapist-client relationship. If you’re needing support, please reach out to a licensed professional in your area.

6. 

   10 Mar 2026

   Real Talk with My Sister: Motherhood, Mental Health & New Beginnings

   In part two of the sibling mini-series on A Therapist and Her Inner Circle, I’m joined by my middle sister, Amanda, for an honest conversation about life’s unexpected transitions. We talk about what it was like growing up close in age but not always feeling close developmentally, and how our sibling relationship has evolved over time. Amanda also shares her experience navigating divorce, opening herself back up to dating as a single mom, and building a new chapter of life. We explore what it’s like to raise children with a large age gap, blend families, and now parent two little ones just 17 months apart. She also speaks candidly about the emotional challenges many mothers experience after having babies and the pressure to hold everything together. This episode is about resilience, family, and the courage it takes to begin again. As always, this podcast is intended for educational andinformational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial 988 in the United States for immediate support.

7. 

   1 Mar 2026

   Adult ADHD Diagnosis in Women: A Sister Conversation About Motherhood & Identity

   In this episode, I’m sitting down with my youngest sister for an honest, laughter-filled conversation about growing up seven years apart and how our relationship has evolved over time. We talk about who we were as kids, how our personalities showed up early, and what it’s been like reconnecting as adults in completely different life seasons. She shares what motherhood to three boys has taught her, how she recently found her place working in a school, and what it’s meant to step into a career that feels aligned. We also talk openly about her ADHD diagnosis as an adult — how it reframed her childhood, motherhood, and sense of self in ways she didn’t expect. This episode is about sisterhood, identity shifts, late realizations, and the freedom that can come from finally understanding yourself more clearly. If you’ve ever felt “behind,” misunderstood, or like you were figuring things out later than everyone else — this conversation is for you. As always, this podcast is intended for educational andinformational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do notrepresent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

8. 

   17 Feb 2026

   Rest & Recharge

   This week’s episode is a simple check-in. No guest, no deep dive — just a conversation about something I’ve been noticing lately: how often we push through instead of allowing ourselves to rest. I’m sharing the seven types of rest (because rest is more than sleep) and inviting you to consider where you might be running on empty — physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, creatively, spiritually, or even from sensory overload. And at the end, I’m sharing a fun preview of a new mini-series coming soon featuring me and my siblings — honest, nostalgic, and a little chaotic in the best way. If you’ve been moving nonstop, this one’s for you. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

9. 

   9 Feb 2026

   Same Internship, Different Chairs

   We interned together for a year—side by side, learning how to sit with stories we’d never heard before, practicing sand tray on each other, and quietly wondering if we were actually cut out for this work. Now, we work with different populations—adolescents on one side, adults and couples on the other. We’re in different seasons of life, years apart in age, yet shaped by the same training year that asked us to grow faster than we expected. In this conversation, we talk honestly about imposter syndrome, the things grad school doesn’t teach you about being a therapist, and the ongoing challenge of finding balance while holding space for others. This episode is for interns, early-career clinicians, and anyone curious about what becoming a therapist really looks like—behind the theory, beyond the textbooks. Still learning. Still becoming. Just sitting in different chairs. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

10. 

    1 Feb 2026

    Hot Flashes, Hormones, and the Season Nobody Prepared Us For

    Perimenopause affects far more than menstrual cycles—it has a profound impact on mental health, emotional regulation, and overall well-being, especially for women in their late 30s and 40s. In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked connection between perimenopause and mental health, including rising rates of anxiety, depression, mood changes, sleep disruption, brain fog, and emotional overwhelm during the menopausal transition. This conversation covers: How hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause affect mood and mental health Common emotional symptoms women experience in their 30s and 40s The intersection of hormones, life stress, identity shifts, and nervous system regulation When to seek support and how holistic, integrative care can help Whether you’re navigating perimenopause yourself, supporting a partner or loved one, or simply want to better understand women’s mental health in midlife, this episode offers validation, education, and a reminder that these experiences are real, common, and treatable. Friendly reminder: This episode is meant to inform, normalize, and spark conversation—not to replace therapy or medical advice. Everyone’s experience is different, so if you’re struggling or have concerns, please reach out to a qualified mental health or medical professional. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

11. 

    25 Jan 2026

    Barbie Has Feelings Too

    In this episode of A Therapist and Her Inner Circle, I sit down with my longtime hairstylist of over eight years for a real, heartfelt conversation about mental health, vulnerability, and the unexpected healing that happens outside the therapy room. We explore why the salon chair often becomes a safe space, how identity and self-worth are tied to hair and change, and what it means to hold emotional space for others every day. From emotional labor and burnout to masculinity, connection, and trust, this episode reminds us that no matter where we are, our feelings matter. A grounded, honest conversation about mental health, relationships, and the power of being truly seen. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

12. 

    18 Jan 2026

    The Space Between Mind and Body

    In this episode of A Therapist and Her Inner Circle, we explore the space between mind and body—where stress, safety, and healing often unfold. I’m joined by my friend and event partner, a pelvic floor physical therapist, for a grounded conversation about how the nervous system shapes both emotional and physical experience. We talk about why insight alone doesn’t always bring relief, how the body communicates before the brain catches up, and what becomes possible when care is collaborative and human. This isn’t therapy or medical advice—just an honest conversation meant to invite curiosity and connection. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

13. 

    12 Jan 2026

    The First Inner Circle

    Inside the Inner Circle: My Husband In the first real episode of A Therapist and Her Inner Circle, I sit down with the person who’s been closest to me through it all—my husband. We talk about who we were before therapy language, how we’ve grown side by side, and what it’s really like loving each other while becoming new versions of ourselves. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

14. 

    7 Jan 2026

    Welcome to the Inner Circle

    This first episode is less of a polished introduction and more of a “pull up a chair and let’s see where this goes.” I talk about why I started this podcast, what the inner circle actually means, and how I plan to figure things out as I go—bumps, missteps, and hopefully minimal bruising included. No perfection here, just real conversation and a genuine invitation to be human together. As always, this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or professional mental health treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any guests. The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not represent the positions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or licensing boards. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your local emergency services or dial or text 988 in the United States for immediate support.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.