Therapy in the Diaspora

Fandom, Feelings & Representation: Using Pop Culture in Therapy Ft. Karla Dubon, LPC, LCPC | Therapy in the Diaspora Ep. 4

In this episode of Therapy in the Diaspora: A Diaspora Therapy Group Podcast, host Annissa, AMFT (She/They), and guest host Karla Dubon, LPC, LCPC (They/Them) dive into the vibrant world of pop culture and its powerful role in the therapy room. From superheroes to Star Wars, Avatar: The Last Airbender, music, books, and even fanfiction, they explore how media can be more than just entertainment—it can be a bridge to healing, identity exploration, and community building. Together, they discuss how sharing personal interests with clients creates space for connection, validation, and self-expression. They also highlight the importance of critically engaging with media, acknowledging its impact on our beliefs and values, and advocating for meaningful representation. Along the way, they center queer joy and affirm the healing power of seeing ourselves reflected in the stories we love. Whether you're a therapist, a fan, or both, this conversation is a celebration of the creativity and community that comes from finding ourselves in the worlds we hold dear. If you’d like to reach out to any of the therapists featured in this episode, please follow these links: Annissa Crow, AMFT (She/They) ☆California☆ Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/annissa-crow-carlsbad-ca/1356283] Instagram: @annissacrowmft [https://www.instagram.com/annissacrowmft/] Tiktok: @annissacrowmft [https://www.tiktok.com/@annissacrowmft] Linktree: AnnissaCrowMFT [https://linktr.ee/annissacrowmft] Karla Dubon, LPC, LCPC (They/Them) ☆Missouri and Kansas☆  Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/karla-dubon-overland-park-ks/1023393] Millennium Counseling [https://www.millenniumcounselingkc.com/] Instagram: @millenniumcounselingkc [https://www.instagram.com/millenniumcounselingkc/] Tiktok: @the_transtherapist [https://www.tiktok.com/@the_transtherapist] Linktree: MillenniumCounselingKC [https://linktr.ee/millenniumcounselingkc] LISTEN/VIEW THE PODCAST HERE Spotify [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/therapy-in-the-diaspora/episodes/Welcome-Home--Therapy-in-the-Diaspora-Ep--1-e2qapqk] Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyintheDiasporaPodcast] CHECK OUT MORE FROM DIASPORA THERAPY GROUP! Diaspora Therapy Group [https://www.diasporatherapygroup.com/] Instagram: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.instagram.com/diasporatherapygroup/] Tiktok: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.tiktok.com/@diasporatherapygroup?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc]

Discussing Fatphobia Ft. Tanya Marwaha, MHC-LP | Therapy in the Diaspora Ep. 3

In this episode of *Therapy in the Diaspora: A Diaspora Therapy Group Podcast*, host Annissa, AMFT (She/They), is joined by guest Tanya Marwaha, MHC-LP, a New York-based clinician, to unpack the insidious roots of fatphobia in white supremacy. Together, they explore how anti-fat bias shapes self-perception, limits access to care, and fuels disordered eating—particularly within marginalized communities. This conversation sheds light on the systemic and personal consequences of weight stigma while offering a compassionate, decolonized perspective on healing body image and reclaiming self-worth. Tune in for a powerful discussion that challenges the status quo and affirms that all bodies are deserving of care, dignity, and respect. If you’d like to reach out to any of the therapists featured in this episode, please follow these links: Annissa Crow, AMFT (She/They) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/annissa-crow-carlsbad-ca/1356283] Instagram: @annissacrowmft [https://www.instagram.com/annissacrowmft/] Tiktok: @annissacrowmft [https://www.tiktok.com/@annissacrowmft] Tanya Marwaha, M.A., Ed. M, MHC-LP (She/Her) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/tanya-marwaha-brooklyn-ny/1160211] Instagram: @therapywithtanya_ [https://www.instagram.com/therapywithtanya_/]  LISTEN/VIEW THE PODCAST HERE Spotify [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/therapy-in-the-diaspora/episodes/Welcome-Home--Therapy-in-the-Diaspora-Ep--1-e2qapqk] Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyintheDiasporaPodcast] CHECK OUT MORE FROM DIASPORA THERAPY GROUP! Website [https://www.diasporatherapygroup.com/] Instagram: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.instagram.com/diasporatherapygroup/] Tiktok: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.tiktok.com/@diasporatherapygroup?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] References: https://www.sonyareneetaylor.com/the-body-is-not-an-apology [https://www.sonyareneetaylor.com/the-body-is-not-an-apology]  https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-with-sonya-renee-taylor-on-the-body-is-not-an-apology/ [https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-with-sonya-renee-taylor-on-the-body-is-not-an-apology/]  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2930234/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2930234/]  https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/whats-wrong-overreliance-bmi/2023-07 [https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/whats-wrong-overreliance-bmi/2023-07]

Talking About Self-Care | Therapy in the Diaspora Ep. 2

In this insightful episode of Therapy in the Diaspora: A Diaspora Therapy Group Podcast, join your hosts—Annissa, AMFT (She/They), and Lakshmi, APCC (She/Her)—as they explore the transformative practice of self-care. Together, they delve into what self-care truly means, moving beyond common misconceptions to uncover its deeper significance for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Through an engaging mix of professional insights and personal reflections, Annissa and Lakshmi discuss the unique barriers BIPOC and queer communities often face when it comes to prioritizing self-care. They also share practical tips and strategies for making self-care an accessible and empowering part of everyday life. Whether you're navigating the complexities of identity, striving to find balance, or simply curious about what self-care can look like for you, this episode offers a thoughtful and inclusive space to learn and reflect. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that centers healing, resilience, and the radical act of prioritizing your well-being! If you’d like to reach out to any of the therapists featured in this episode, please follow these links: Annissa Crow, AMFT (She/They) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/annissa-crow-carlsbad-ca/1356283] Instagram: @annissacrowmft [https://www.instagram.com/annissacrowmft/] Titok: @annissacrowmft [https://www.tiktok.com/@annissacrowmft] Lakshmi Jaiprakas, APCC (She/Her) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/lakshmi-jaiprakash-carlsbad-ca/1290874] Instagram: @therapywithlakshmi [https://www.instagram.com/therapywithlakshmi/]  LISTEN/VIEW THE PODCAST HERE Spotify [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/therapy-in-the-diaspora/episodes/Welcome-Home--Therapy-in-the-Diaspora-Ep--1-e2qapqk] Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyintheDiasporaPodcast] CHECK OUT MORE FROM DIASPORA THERAPY GROUP! Website [https://www.diasporatherapygroup.com/] Instagram: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.instagram.com/diasporatherapygroup/] Tiktok: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.tiktok.com/@diasporatherapygroup?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc]

Welcome Home | Therapy in the Diaspora Ep. 1

In this engaging episode of the Therapy in the Diaspora, join your hosts—Adrian, AMFT (He/Him), Annissa, AMFT (She/They), Lakshmi, APCC (She/Her), Lamarre, APCC (He/Him), and Vanessa, AMFT (She/They)—from the Diaspora Therapy Group—as they dive into a fun and revealing game of *We’re Not Really Strangers*. This game not only breaks the ice but also provides an intimate look into their lives, experiences, and what motivates them as therapists. Through thought-provoking questions and heartfelt discussions, the therapists share personal stories and insights, allowing the audience to connect with them on a deeper level. Whether you're a fellow mental health professional or someone seeking understanding, this episode is a wonderful opportunity to get to know these amazing individuals. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that blends fun with meaningful reflection! If you’d like to reach out to any of the therapists featured in this episode, please follow these links: - Adrian Belmes, AMFT (He/Him) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/adrian-belmes-carlsbad-ca/1235590] Website [https://adrianbelmes.com/] - Annissa Crow, AMFT (She/They) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/annissa-crow-carlsbad-ca/1356283] Instagram: @annissacrowmft [https://www.instagram.com/annissacrowmft/] Titok: @annissacrowmft [https://www.tiktok.com/@annissacrowmft] - Lakshmi Jaiprakas, APCC (She/Her) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/lakshmi-jaiprakash-carlsbad-ca/1290874] - Lamarre Edouard Jr., APCC (He/Him) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/lamarre-edouard-jr-san-diego-ca/1150149] - Vanessa Torres, AMFT (She/They) Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-torres-carlsbad-ca/480896] LISTEN/VIEW THE PODCAST HERE Spotify [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVJITEV2cUc3VjQyZkoxamtraWNNZlZ2QzdTZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsdXRCd3hNZktKdlhVRmJmVE8tQThBSDdyUUZWTmhweDhWUTJsbm5vX3VsWHJZRWtTT1RkN2djeVMzM3BjSDF1SFhYT2dNZnY1cWMxLUVzSXZQSWhiajVNbEV6Q3pKX0w3UUcwTGRmaGlzdVFDVWhRMA&q=podcasters.spotify.com%2Fpod%2Fshow%2Ftherapy-in-the-diaspora] Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyintheDiasporaPodcast] CHECK OUT MORE FROM DIASPORA THERAPY GROUP! Website [https://www.diasporatherapygroup.com/] Instagram: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.instagram.com/diasporatherapygroup/] Facebook: @diasporatherapy [https://www.facebook.com/DiasporaTherapy] Tiktok: @diasporatherapygroup [https://www.tiktok.com/@diasporatherapygroup?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc]