True Vine Talks: Recent Episodes
True Vine Counseling
True Vine Talks is a Podcast discussing mental health and relationships. Linda and Rachel are licensed professional counselors at True Vine Counseling in Hurricane, WV. They believe emotion is the fastest and most reliable tool for lasting change. Linda and Rachel are passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families identify, understand, and change the patterns that keep them stuck. Their goal is to help people learn how to connect with themselves and others in healthy, productive ways that soothe fears and meet emotional needs (such as love and belonging).
In this episode, we explore what psychology can teach us about recognizing healthy relationships through the lens of the Dark Triad, which includes narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. Rather than focusing on spotting "bad people," we examine the deeper qualities that distinguish genuine character from surface-level appeal. Learn why charm is not the same as kindness, confidence is not the same as competence, and intelligence is not the same as wisdom. We also discuss the importance of empathy, consistent behavior, and healthy boundaries, offering practical insights to help you build relationships rooted in trust, respect, and emotional safety.
In this episode, we explore the "Dark Triad" of personality: narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism. We discuss what these three personality constructs have in common, how they differ, and the ways they can show up in everyday relationships, workplaces, and society. Join us as we break down the basics and clear up common misconceptions.
In this episode of True Vine Talks, we explore Erik Erikson's stage of Generativity vs. Stagnation (ages 40–65) through the lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy. We discuss what it means to cultivate genuine care for the next generation by mentoring, sharing wisdom, and building a meaningful legacy. We also examine how feelings of stagnation, isolation, or being "stuck" can emerge when connection is missing. Join us as we explore how secure relationships, community, and emotional connection can foster generativity and help us live lives marked by purpose, impact, and belonging.
In this episode of our Erikson's Psychosocial Stages mini-series, we explore the stage of Intimacy vs. Isolation (ages 18–40). From an Emotionally Focused Therapy perspective, we discuss how our ability to form close, secure, and meaningful relationships is shaped by earlier developmental experiences. Join us as we unpack the challenges of vulnerability, connection, attachment, and loneliness, and consider what helps people move toward intimacy rather than isolation during this important season of life.
In this episode, we explore Erik Erikson’s stage of psychosocial development known as Identity vs. Role Confusion and discuss why adolescence is such a critical time for developing confidence, independence, and a strong sense of self. Designed for caregivers of teens, this episode examines healthy ways parents can support identity development through encouragement, communication, and appropriate autonomy, while also addressing how overly strict or controlling parenting styles may unintentionally interfere with a teen’s ability to discover who they are.
In our miniseries 'Stage by Stage: A Parent’s Roadmap', we explore Erikson’s stages of Psychosocial Development. This episode focuses on Industry vs. Inferiority, a pivotal period for children ages 6 to 12. During these years, kids begin comparing themselves to peers to determine what they are good at and where they fit in. This process helps shape confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of pride in their abilities.
We discuss how caregivers can support healthy development by focusing on effort over outcome, encouraging persistence, resilience, and a growth mindset rather than perfection. We also highlight the power of positive affirmation and validation in helping children feel seen, capable, and motivated.
You recognized the fawn response. You understood where it came from. Now it's time to heal. In Part 3 of our fawn response mini-series, we're diving into the real work of recovery: setting boundaries without guilt, trusting your own voice again, and breaking the people-pleasing patterns that have kept you stuck. If you're ready to stop shrinking and start living as your full self, this one's for you.
Protest behaviors are some of the most misunderstood dynamics in close relationships. They can look like criticism, stonewalling, emotional outbursts, or shutdown, but beneath the surface, they're often a cry for connection. In this episode, we examine common protest behaviors through the lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy, exploring what they communicate, why they show up, and how recognizing the underlying fear and hurt can open the door to deeper understanding between partners.
So many people ask, “Why do I keep attracting the wrong people?!” What if attraction isn’t the real issue at all?
In this episode, we unpack a powerful (and often misunderstood) idea: it’s not about who you attract—it’s about who you give your emotional and relational access to. Drawing from attachment theory, we explore how early experiences quietly teach us that connection is earned through availability, emotional labor, proximity, or overfunctioning—and how those patterns can lead to relationships in which your access is taken for granted or even exploited.
In Part 2 of this mini-series, we explore the connection between the fawn response and complex PTSD. This episode examines how fawning develops as a survival strategy in environments where safety depends on appeasing others, remaining small, or avoiding conflict. Together, we’ll unpack why the nervous system learns this response—and why it can be so hard to let go.
This first episode of our three-part mini-series explores the fawn response: what it is, how it develops, and why it exists. We discuss its roots in trauma and nervous system survival, along with real-life examples of how fawning can show up in relationships, work, and daily interactions.
In this episode, with guest and colleague, Hannah Eastman, we explore a question many counselors are asking: Where has distress tolerance gone for Gen Z? We dive into the patterns we’re seeing in the therapy room and the cultural forces that may have shaped this shift. We discuss the rise of snowplow parenting, what it means to grow up as true digital natives, the intense fear of failure many young adults carry, and how constant screen use can numb emotions instead of helping process them. Together, we reflect on the pressures, patterns, and environments that may have contributed to Gen Z’s struggle to cope with everyday stress—offering a compassionate, curiosity-driven conversation about a complex issue.
In this Movember episode, we’re taking a closer look at men’s mental health and the silent expectations that often shape their emotional lives. From being the “strong one” who never breaks to the provider who puts everyone else first, men are often taught to suppress their emotions and hide their needs. We explore how these cultural pressures contribute to loneliness, burnout, and disconnection—and how creating space for vulnerability can change everything.
How can you be sure you are protecting your peace versus holding onto resentment? In this episode, we discuss the difference between setting boundaries with love and holding grudges with bitterness. We’ll explore how intention shapes the outcome—and why boundaries are rooted in self-respect, not revenge.
Many relationships look “stable” from the outside—consistent, predictable, maybe even long-lasting. But stability doesn’t always mean a relationship is healthy. In this episode, Linda and Rachel unpack the differences between simply maintaining a stable bond and actually cultivating a secure connection. We’ll explore what true security looks like and why moving beyond stability is key to creating the kind of partnership where both people can truly thrive.
In this episode, we explore how allowing natural consequences to unfold can serve as powerful boundaries that protect your peace. Learn why stepping back, letting people face the results of their choices, and resisting the urge to fix everything isn’t cold—it’s caring. Tune in for practical insights on maintaining your sanity, preserving your energy, and embracing the lessons life naturally provides.
If you’ve been curious about inner child work but don’t know where to begin, this episode is your starting point. We’ll guide you through simple, approachable ways to meet your inner child—the often-forgotten part of you that still carries old pain. You’ll learn how to visualize this part of yourself, begin nurturing it with compassion, and take the first steps toward building self-trust. By showing up for your inner child, you can start living more authentically and in alignment with your values.
Growing up with a narcissistic parent can leave deep, confusing wounds. In this episode, we talk about how to begin healing—from validating your own story, to setting boundaries, to caring for the child within you who still longs for the love you didn’t receive. We also hold space for the quiet grief of letting go of the relationship you hoped for, but may never have. This conversation is an invitation to begin coming home to yourself with compassion, clarity, and hope.
What happens when the person who was supposed to love you unconditionally makes everything about themselves? In this episode, we explore the psychological impact of being raised by a narcissistic parent. From gaslighting and guilt to the loss of identity and chronic self-doubt, we unpack the deep wounds left behind—and how healing is possible. Whether you’re just starting to recognize the patterns or deep into your healing journey, we hope this conversation will help you feel seen, validated, and empowered.
Have you ever felt like you were the parent in your relationship with a caregiver? This is what happens when a parent never grew up emotionally. This episode explores the four types of emotionally immature parents, how their behavior affects children into adulthood, and how to begin healing. Whether you're just starting to name your experience or you've been doing the work for years, this conversation offers validation, insight, and a path forward.
Being a good friend doesn’t mean being someone’s emotional lifeline. In this episode, we break down codependent friendships, how to recognize red flags, and how to build relationships rooted in mutual respect, independence, and balance.
Have you ever found yourself overreacting in a relationship and wondered, “Why did that hurt so much?” In this episode, we explore the deep and often hidden wounds of attachment reinjury—when present-day relationships awaken unresolved pain from our earliest connections. Whether it's feeling abandoned, unseen, or unworthy, these emotional echoes can keep us stuck in cycles of fear, conflict, or disconnection.
Join us as we unpack what attachment reinjury really means, how to recognize its signs, and most importantly—how to begin healing. We'll dive into personal stories, therapeutic insights, and tools to help you break free from the patterns that no longer serve you.
If you’re ready to stop reliving old wounds and start forming healthier connections, this episode is for you.
Throughout our lifetime, we are all met with various transitions. These transitions could be from education into the workforce, retirement, moving to a new location, or any major change that impacts your daily life and routine. Regardless of the type of transition, there is the potential to experience grief for what is being left behind and anxiety about the unknown that lies ahead. Linda and Rachel discuss ways to help individuals adapt during major life transitions.
Linda and Rachel read Cassie Phillips's poem 'Let Them'. Her words teach us that we deserve better, and when we find better, our lives improve.
Linda and Rachel discuss how themes in popular media (television, movies, magazines, etc.) can influence behavior in romantic relationships.
Linda and Rachel discuss 'black and white thinking' (AKA dichotomous thinking). This cognitive distortion occurs when an individual views the world in extreme opposites. This can look like believing something is all good or all bad, perfect or terrible, always or never, etc.
Linda and Rachel share some helpful tips for navigating those difficult conversations with important people in your life. Though they can be uncomfortable, these conversations can also bring closeness, increase satisfaction, and deepen trust in relationships.
Linda and Rachel answer the question: "How do you know what healthy is if you have been in insecure attachment patterns all your life?"
To celebrate their 100th episode together, Linda and Rachel discuss the Psychology of Human Relationships. Listen to learn about the science of human connection, how the quality of our relationships affects mental health, and some of the elements of meaningful connection that cultivate stronger bonds.
Nobody always has everything together. Not even licensed professional counselors. Linda and Rachel discuss the appropriate use of self-disclosure during therapy sessions and how they hope it helps encourage trust and authenticity.
Linda and Rachel have a candid conversation about their transitions to parenthood. They hope their transparency in sharing personal experiences during postpartum will help validate other new parents. The two hope to normalize how overwhelming and challenging bringing home a new baby can be and reduce the shame some new parents face when they don't always feel the 'joy' society expects them to have.
Linda and Rachel use a clip from the movie 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' (2005) to discuss couples therapy sessions.
Linda and Rachel use the silent session scene from the movie 'Good Will Hunting' (1997) to discuss silence during therapy sessions and how they might handle it as professional counselors.
Linda and Rachel discuss the DSM-5 Dissociative Identity Disorder diagnosis using a clip from the movie 'Split' (2016).
Linda and Rachel discuss the dismissive avoidant attachment style and the many strengths of individuals with this type of attachment. This podcast episode is a mini-series, part 2 of 2.
Linda and Rachel discuss the anxious preoccupied attachment style and the many strengths of individuals with this type of attachment. This podcast episode is a mini-series, part 1 of 2.
Linda and Rachel discuss how frustrating it can be to interact with an emotionally immature person. Listen to learn the characteristics of an emotionally immature person, why individuals might be emotionally immature adults, and what to do for yourself if you care for an emotionally immature individual.
Linda and Rachel honor the passing of Dr. Sue Johnson, creator of Emotionally Focused Therapy by sharing what they have learned through Sue's research on love and attachment.
On February 28, 2024, Elon Musk posted on X (previously Twitter): "Put Never Went to Therapy" on my gravestone. In this episode of True Vine Talks, Linda and Rachel discuss how the stigma around mental health care remains and creates barriers to those who could benefit from receiving therapy.
Codependency is a term used to describe an unhealthy relationship dynamic between a ‘taker’ and a ‘giver.’ In this episode of True Vine Talks, Linda and Rachel explain codependency, how the codependent relationship is created, and the steps to take if you realize you are in a codependent relationship.
Linda and Rachel discuss the leading cause of divorce - lack of communication and unrealistic expectations. Listen and learn how poor communication in relationships leads to loneliness and resentment.
In this episode, Linda and Rachel discuss why so many people get stuck in cycles of dating ‘projects.’ Project dating refers to the habit of falling in love with someone’s potential and feeling like you aren’t enough when that individual doesn’t change, improve, or grow in the relationship. If this sounds familiar, listen and learn about some of the reasons people find themselves repeating this habit over and over again. As well as how to look for a consistent, long-term partner instead of another project.
Linda and Rachel discuss how rejection can show up in any relationship. Listen and learn about the four types of rejection, where perceived rejections stem from, and how to work with parts of yourself to help manage feelings of rejection.
Linda and Rachel discuss how past trauma can impact current relationships, especially romantic relationships. Previous relational trauma can lead to feeling suspicious, distrusting others, questioning intentions, and fear of harsh consequences or abandonment. Listen and learn how the trauma someone experienced in a past relationship can prevent them from being able to trust and open up emotionally with their current romantic partner.
Have you ever wondered what keeps some people stuck, unable to change? In this episode, Linda and Rachel discuss some common obstacles individuals must overcome to obtain the mental health progress they seek.
Most of us have heard about burnout. A state of physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Many employees have experienced this within the workplace. When an individual experiences burnout, others are quick to suggest they weren’t taking good enough care of themselves. Our question on this podcast is: could the reason behind such high rates of burnout be caused by betrayal? Many Employees have been betrayed by their employers. Individuals do not feel supported in the workplace. Many workers are expected to perform at unrealistic levels without necessary economic support (such as competitive wages, affordable childcare, paid leave, and cost-effective health insurance).
Referenced Sources:
NY Times Article: "How Society Has Turned Its Back On Mothers" https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/04/parenting/working-mom-burnout-coronavirus.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CBetrayal%E2%80%9D%20describes%20what%20my%20patients,the%20broken%20structures%20around%20them.
Parent Data Podcast: Self-Care Without Candles
https://parentdata.org/self-care-without-candles/
Linda and Rachel honor Britney's life story by discussing the honesty and bravery she has expressed in her memoir "The Woman in Me". Listen to learn about toxic relationships and how to tell if someone has your best interest at heart.
Linda and Rachel discuss the work of Carl Jung on personalities. Listen and learn about the 12 archetypes and more. Below is a link to a free quiz, to find out which archetypes are your strongest.https://www.psychologistworld.com/tests/jung-archetype-quiz
In this episode of True Vine Talks, Linda and Rachel discuss Alfred Adler's birth order personality theory. Have you ever noticed unique traits of only children, oldest children, middle children, or youngest? Listen to learn about how birth order can impact your personality. We hope you enjoy it!
Linda and Rachel discuss The Big Five personality traits. They are Openness (to experience), Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. These five broad dimensions of personality remain mostly stable throughout an individual's life. They are influenced by both genes and the environment. Each trait represents a continuum (or spectrum). You can take a free Big Five Personality test here: https://bigfive-test.com/
Linda and Rachel discuss the deep, underlying themes and mental health lessons in the 'Barbie' Movie. 1. You are (K)enough, just as you are! 2. We are all children, learning how to be adults. 3. When all power is given to any singular group it is not good. 4. Oppression or disregard of others leads them to feel worthless. 5. It is not your burden to fix others who do not yet know themself. 6. Life is a constant balance of contradicting double standards that make it impossible to please everyone. 7. Life will never be perfect, but your mindset can help make it better.
What does it mean to be authentic? Why is living an authentic life so important? What makes authenticity difficult? What skills are needed to be your truly authentic self? We answer all these questions in this episode of True Vine Talks Podcast. We hope you enjoy it!
Linda and Rachel discuss the life transition from adolescence to adulthood. Individuals, aged 18-20, find themselves trying to figure out who they are and longing to feel lovable within intimate relationships. Their parents are trying to figure out how to help them be more independent while continuing to support them financially and keep them physically safe. This is a confusing and overwhelming time for both emerging adults and their parents. Thus, it is no surprise that navigating independence, trust, and mutual respect between emerging adults and their parents can create conflict.
Linda and Rachel discuss what they believe is the most misread emotion... anger. Many people are uncomfortable with (or even fear) anger because of the behavior associated with it. Linda and Rachel want to help people understand anger is a healthy emotion. Learning to express anger respectfully allows us to set boundaries and fight for justice.
One of the words we find ourselves, as therapists, using often is validation. We have realized that not everyone fully understands what we mean when we discuss validating feelings. Validating an emotion is accepting it as factual and understandable. Affirmation is encouraging and supporting someone. The two are different, and it is important to validate emotions before we affirm.
Linda and Rachel discuss what 'exiled' parts of self are based on the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model. Listen to learn how these parts of self become exiled and why they can be challenging to access and heal.
The Internal Family Systems model of therapy believes if we experience a situation where we cannot protect ourselves (physically, mentally, or emotionally), parts of our mind become activated and may take on extreme roles. These parts carry the emotions, sensations, and memories from those experiences. They protect you from feeling hurt, humiliated, frightened, or shamed again. Consequently, these protector parts keep your more vulnerable, needy parts inaccessible (exiled). In therapy, Linda and Rachel help clients access and heal their more vulnerable parts by working to unburden protectors and regain their trust in the self.
Content Warning: This episode is created for adult audiences only. The conversation includes personal experiences of mental illness, substance abuse, suicide, and hospitalization. These topics may be distressing to some listeners. Discretion is advised. Please see below for resources and support.
Special guest, Phil Maynard, shares his personal experiences with mental illness and recovery. Phil is a Peer Recovery Support Specialist who uses his story, compassion for others, and great sense of humor to spread hope in recovery. Phil, thanks for your time spent with us on the True Vine Talks Podcast. Your story is moving; the work you do is so important.
Suicide Hotline: 988
Text Crisis Line: text 'HOME' to 741741
Linda, Katlin, and Rachel discuss a theory that mental health content online may be contributing to a mass social/emotional contagion, particularly among the teen/adolescent population. Listen to learn more about adolescent development, social contagion theory, mirror neurons, and the fixed mindset.
Caylin France is a Student Support Specialist at Marshall University. She joins us on the podcast to discuss her her passion for helping others succeed; mentally, emotionally, and academically. Caylin shared some of her experiences participating in (and working for) the Upward Bound Program at Marshall and how it played a huge role in finding her purpose.
January is a time when many of us set goals or New Years resolutions. If we are unable to maintain these plans, we can feel defeated or disappointed in ourselves. Change is challenging to maintain, because it involves intentionally choosing to do what is best for you, over what might be fun, fast, or easy in the moment. Linda, Katlin, and Rachel discuss the importance of setting and maintaining intentions in order to build healthy habits and reach our goals. When feeling discouraged, Katlin recommends the 3 Rs: re-evaluate, revisit, and reset your intention(s).
The Holiday season, for many people, can lead to feelings of loneliness and disappointment. Linda and Rachel discuss the importance of being flexible with Holiday plans and managing our expectations.
Linda and Rachel discuss the layers of shame that can surface around sex in relationships. Our view of sex and sexuality is shaped by the messages we received from society (media), our culture (spirituality, tradition, religion), our friends and family, and our own inner beliefs about our self-worth (body image/desirability). In this podcast we discuss how shame can prevent emotional connection through sexual bonding and how we help couples have these difficult conversations.
Have you ever wondered why it is so difficult to change? In this episode Linda and Rachel discuss why we experience resistance toward change. Listen to learn skills for adapting and conquering the changes you want to make in your life.
Linda, Katlin, and Rachel discuss how to reparent your inner child through self discipline, joy, emotion regulation, and self care. Listen and learn about some of the obstacles that come up for individuals beginning the reparenting process and how to overcome them.
Our guest, Elizabeth Slagel, is the owner/operator of Weymouth Hill Event Venue in Ironton, OH. Elizabeth has a passion for creative endeavors. We enjoyed watching her light up as she discussed the joy she finds in helping her clients design the perfect "wow factor" for their event. Elizabeth, thank you for your time and insight into the power of moments. Contact Weymouth Hill if you are planning an event that you want to make a magical moment.
Website: https://weymouthhill.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeymouthHill
Linda and Rachel discuss the 4 parts of self based on the Internal Family Systems Model (IFS). Listen and learn about how we all have our authentic self, managers, firefighters, and exiled (or hurt child) parts of self. We hope this podcast helps you understand how complex our internal worlds are. Thank you for listening!
Linda, Katin, and Rachel discuss the impacts of consuming traumatic news in our daily lives. Listen to learn how our brains interpret news events as immediate threats and trigger anxiety; as well as ways to cope with the stress these types of events can cause. [Trigger Warning: the events discussed in this podcast include violence, such as mass shootings].
Special guests, Lilly and Georgia Slagel, share genuine vulnerability while discussing personal experiences adjusting to college life. We hope this podcast will help normalize how difficult the transition from high school to college can be for many individuals. Being thrust into a multitude of changes, while trying to discover who you want to be, is no small feat. If you relate to the challenges discussed in this podcast and would like to schedule a therapy appointment, please email us at truevinewv@gmail.com
Linda and Rachel discuss what new clients can expect when they come in for couples counseling. At True Vine, we are not going to place blame on either partner, we are not going to give relationship advice, and we are not going to tell you how to compromise. What we will do is help you learn how to have deeper, more meaningful, conversations with one another. Conversations that get to the root of your conflict and increase emotional connection. Leaving couples feeling closer and better able to make decisions together.
Linda and Rachel discuss subtle differences between the Highly Sensitive Person experiencing nervous system arousal and someone experiencing anxiety.
Linda and Rachel share their personal revelations after reading 'The Highly Sensitive Person' written by Elaine Aron, PhD. Highly Sensitive People (or Empaths) process information more deeply and experience more frequent nervous system activation. These experiences are often misinterpreted as anxious feelings. To learn more and determine whether you may be a HSP, check out the following resources:
https://hsperson.com/test/highly-sensitive-test/
https://hsperson.com/store/bookstore/
Linda and Rachel provide a crash course on emotions. Listen to learn about the four parts of emotions, the difference between primary and secondary emotions, and the main purpose of five common emotions we experience as humans (anger, sadness, fear, shame, and guilt). Special guest, Grant Goad, joins the podcast to provide insight on emotion for teens and young adults. Grant discusses the importance of recognizing and identifying different emotions. Grant also shared some of his personal experiences, as a high school student during the pandemic.
Linda and Rachel discuss "the inner child", which is a term used in various therapy models. At True Vine Counseling, we believe learning how to connect with and nurture your inner child is an important process in your healing journey. As an adult, you possess the power to validate and meet the needs your younger self longed for, but did not receive. This process can help you gain a sense of self-trust and inner peace.
Linda and Rachel discuss trauma bonds. Listen and learn about the difficult cycle individuals with unhealed attachment trauma may find themselves in with romantic partners. Previous episodes can be found on our YouTube Channel - True Vine Talks with Linda and Rachel
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