Queer and Here: Let’s Talk Mental Health

Meet Bryan: Fighting Discrimination as an Educator and Current Political Climate

In this conversation, Bryan Stanton shares their journey as a queer educator, discussing their experiences in Texas and the challenges they faced in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights within the educational system. They highlight the importance of community support, innovative teaching methods, and the impact of their transition to New York City. Bryan emphasizes the ongoing struggles within the education system and the need for advocacy and awareness in the face of discrimination. In this conversation, Bryan and Alicia discuss the pressing issues surrounding education cuts, government accountability, and the importance of representation. They delve into the challenges of navigating political turbulence and the impact on mental health for activists. The discussion emphasizes the need for authenticity in education, particularly for queer educators, and concludes with valuable advice for the queer community on resilience and joy amidst adversity.
Please follow Bryan (IG) @teachingwhilequeer and listen to the podcast on your favorite platform.
https://teachingwhilequeer.org/
IG: @profbryanstantion 

"This Is Not A Drill." - Political Insight with the Hosts of the Leftist Lezzies Podcast - Part 1

In this episode of Queer and Here, host Alicia Nolan welcomes the hosts of Leftist Lezzies, Kelly Wise and KB King, to discuss the intersection of queer identity and politics. They explore their motivations for starting the podcast, the impact of political decisions on mental health, and the importance of community and allyship in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The conversation also addresses the challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in the military, and the misinformation that often circulates in political discourse. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the overwhelming nature of current political events, the historical patterns in political messaging, and the implications of recent judicial decisions. They express concerns about immigration policies, the targeting of marginalized communities, and the mental health implications of proposed rehabilitation strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience and community action in navigating the complexities of today's political landscape. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various social issues, including crime and recidivism, the impact of Reagan's policies on society, and the controversial Furries Act legislation in Texas. They emphasize the importance of community support and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges, while also advocating for critical thinking and self-care in today's climate. The discussion concludes with a message of hope and the need for continued dialogue on these pressing topics.
Follow Leftist Lezzies on your favorite podcasting platform. 
 
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567729265155
 

Meet Enfys Book: Navigating Queer Rites of Passage

In this conversation, Enfys Book discusses their journey as a queer author and spiritual leader, sharing insights from their latest book 'Queer Rites'. They explore the importance of personal sovereignty, the significance of rituals in queer rites of passage, and the challenges of navigating identity and acceptance within family dynamics. The discussion also touches on mental health and the need for supportive practices in the queer community. In this conversation, Enfys Book and Alicia Nolan discuss the importance of mental health care within the queer community, especially in the current political climate. They explore how rituals can serve as acts of resistance and ways to cultivate queer joy. The discussion emphasizes the significance of self-care, navigating social media, and the need for regulation in digital spaces. They also touch on the importance of community support and provide insights on engaging in political action, all while protecting one's emotional well-being and joy.
Find out more about Enfys and their books at: www.majorarqueerna.com
Check out their newest book: Queer Rites
Read about Itchy Sweaters: https://majorarqueerna.com/itchy-sweaters-an-allys-guide-to-understanding-late-in-life-pronoun-and-gender-changes/
Mastodon Handle: enfysbook@kind.social
Pixelfed Handle: Enfysbook on pix.lgbt
 

Meet Marcie: Religious Trauma to Radical Self Acceptance

Summary
In this conversation, Marcie Macari shares her profound journey through religious trauma, identity struggles, and the search for community and acceptance as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. She reflects on her experiences of being stranded in Africa, navigating relationships, and the impact of her upbringing in a fundamentalist Christian environment. Marcie also reads a poignant piece from a queer anthology that encapsulates her struggles and realizations about faith and identity. In this conversation, Marcie Macari shares her profound experiences with religious trauma, including a shocking exorcism aimed at 'casting out' her same-sex attraction. She discusses the impact of such experiences on her mental health and spirituality, leading her to explore BDSM as a therapeutic practice. Marcie emphasizes the importance of radical self-acceptance as a foundation for healing and personal growth, and how her work helps others navigate their trauma and find empowerment through their experiences.
Marcie Macari Practices Intentional, Trauma-informed BDSM with a focus on self-development, and is the owner and Professional Dominatrix known as: Mistress Mia Payne at: www.paynewithpurpose.com 
https://speakerhub.com/speaker/marcie-macari
https://www.tiktok.com/@marciemacari
 

Meet Natalie: "I wanted to break the cycle of violence"

In this conversation, Natalie Jovanic shares their journey as a non-binary counselor, discussing their experiences with childhood trauma, the challenges of navigating identity, and the healing process through various therapeutic modalities. They emphasize the importance of understanding systemic oppression, the role of literature in healing, and the significance of setting boundaries for self-care. Natalie also highlights their work at Bright Horizon Therapies, focusing on accessibility in mental health care for queer individuals. In this conversation, Alicia Nolan and Natalie Jovanic explore the journey of entrepreneurship, the importance of healing, and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community in today's society. They discuss the impact of societal changes on mental health, the balance between advocacy and self-preservation, and the significance of self-belief and empowerment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for compassion, safety, and the right to exist authentically in a world that can often feel oppressive.
Find Natalie here:
https://brighthorizontherapies.com/
https://www.instagram.com/brighthorizontherapies/
https://brighthorizontherapies.com/blog/category/trauma-demystified/
 
 

The Fight for Trans Rights: Insights from Van Ethan Levy

In this conversation, Van Ethan Levy shares their extensive work as an advocate and educator for trans and non-binary identities, discussing their personal journey, the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, and the importance of creating safe spaces. They highlight the impact of societal norms and the current political climate on mental health, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in addressing transphobia and advocating for community support. In this conversation, Van and Alicia discuss the importance of legal support for the trans community, the need for vocal advocacy against harmful rhetoric, and the significance of understanding internalized transphobia. They emphasize the importance of dialogue in challenging misconceptions and provide actionable steps for allies to support the trans community. The conversation culminates in a powerful message about trusting oneself and others in the fight for equality and acceptance.
To Contact Van:
https://trans.health/
https://dosomethingidentities.org/
https://dosomethingidentities.org/providers/
https://nomoregatekeeping.org/
https://vanethanlevy.com/
IG: @SKTRVAN
IG: @dosomethingidentityies

Meet Sadie: The Healing Power of Music

In this conversation, Sadie Smith, a psychological counselor and music therapist, discusses her journey from Canada to Berlin, her work with queer individuals, and the importance of music therapy in mental health. She explores the concept of polyamorous families, the global landscape of LGBTQ rights, and the challenges faced by trans individuals. Sadie emphasizes the healing power of music and how it can be used to express emotions and foster resilience in clients. In this conversation, Alicia  and Sadie delve into the therapeutic power of music, particularly in the context of queer mental health. They discuss how music can serve as a tool for emotional expression and healing, especially when guided by trained music therapists. The dialogue transitions into the importance of finding safe and affirming therapeutic spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the need for practitioners to understand the unique challenges faced by this community. The conversation culminates in a celebration of queer joy and resilience, highlighting the strength found in community and self-acceptance despite societal challenges.
Find Sadie at www.crescendocounselling.com
And on IG @crescendocounselling

Meet Ren: Being Non-Binary and Addressing Gender Norms in the Dance Community

In this conversation, Ren shares their journey of self-discovery and gender identity within the dance world. They discuss their experiences growing up as a dancer, the challenges of coming out as non-binary, and the impact of costuming choices on their mental health and performance. Ren emphasizes the importance of communication and support in navigating these challenges, as well as the need for greater understanding and acceptance within the dance community. In this conversation, Ren and Alicia discuss the evolving landscape of dance, particularly focusing on gender identity and inclusivity. Ren shares personal experiences of navigating a traditionally gendered dance environment and the importance of using language that respects all identities. They emphasize the need for open dialogue and education within the dance community to foster a more inclusive atmosphere. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support and the role of Ren's podcast, 'Dissecting Dance,' in addressing taboo topics in the dance world.
Find Ren at: https://renrdance.weebly.com/
Or follow on Instagram @dissectingdance

Meet Cailin: Navigating Safety in Mental Healthcare and Building Community

In this conversation, Cam Murphy, a somatic body psychotherapist, discusses the intricacies of somatic therapy and EMDR, particularly in relation to trauma. They share their personal journey into the mental health field, emphasizing the importance of establishing a safe therapeutic relationship before delving into trauma work. The discussion also highlights the challenges of finding a queer therapist and the systemic issues within the mental health care system, including its capitalistic nature. Cam provides insights into resources available for affordable mental health care, advocating for a more compassionate approach to therapy. In this conversation, Cam and Alicia discuss the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community in the current political climate, particularly in relation to mental health, safety, and community support. They explore the high burnout rates in community mental health professions, the impact of recent elections on mental well-being, and the migration of individuals seeking safer environments. The discussion also highlights the importance of building community ties, preparing for uncertain times, and celebrating queer joy as a means of coping with adversity.
*Cam also goes by Cailin. You will find them on psychologytoday.com and zencare.co under Cam Murphy.
https://openpathcollective.org/clinicians/cailin-murphy/
 
Amber Wylde Photography
https://www.wyldeandfreephotography.com/

Meet Ben: Reclaiming Narratives in Therapy and an Intro to Archetypal Work

Summary
In this conversation, therapist Ben Stimpson shares his journey into therapy, focusing on his work with the queer community and the importance of narrative and spirituality in therapy. He discusses the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the UK, and the cultural narratives that shape societal attitudes. Ben also reflects on his move back to the UK and the differences in therapeutic approaches between North America and the UK, especially regarding the trans community and education around gender identity. In this conversation, Ben Stimpson and Alicia Nolan discuss various themes surrounding education, societal issues, and the importance of community support, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. They explore the challenges of communication in education, the impact of regional differences in educational systems, and the scapegoating of marginalized communities. The discussion also delves into gender fluidity, cognitive dissonance in political contexts, and the role of archetypal psychology in understanding identity. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for community support and integrative approaches in therapy to foster understanding and acceptance.
 
You can find his books and how to contact Ben at www.benstimpson.com