Behind the “I’m Fine” Mom Mask

The Stories That Shape Us

On this episode Ann and Matt have a conversation with Brianna Cox about our journeys to becoming art therapists, the role of community art, personal creative processes, and everything in between. Exploring creativity, connection, healing, and the many paths that lead us to this work.

Art & Awkward Moments

Matt and Ann dive into the chaos and comedy of therapist life from awkward client related nightmares to the wildly unexpected moments that somehow become normal when you work in mental health. They also talk dating, emotional baggage, vulnerability, and the weird transition from independence to letting people in. Mixed in with all of that: creative outlets, humor as survival, and finding ways to stay grounded in a world that feels increasingly overstimulating and strange. Equal parts therapist talk, personal stories, and “how is this our life?”

Behind the “I’m Fine” Mom Mask

On this episode of Art Therapy in Process, Ann Hines and Matt Brooks get real about the emotional weight of parenting, motherhood, masking, and trying to raise emotionally healthy kids while managing their own mental health. From overstimulation and mom guilt to emotional regulation, burnout, and the pressure to “do it right,” they unpack the invisible labor parents carry every day. They talk honestly about how therapists aren’t immune to overwhelm, why so many parents feel like they’re constantly performing stability, and how healing ourselves impacts the way we show up for our children. The conversation is validating, funny, chaotic, and deeply human . A reminder that perfect parenting doesn’t exist, but connection, repair, and self awareness matter more than perfection ever could.

Life as a Therapist: Boundaries, Vulnerability & Community Support

In this episode of Art Therapy in Process, Ann and Matt dive into the nuanced experience of dating as therapists. From managing professional identity outside the therapy room to balancing openness with healthy boundaries, they unpack the real-life dynamics that come with forming relationships in this field. The conversation also highlights the importance of feeling supported by peers, community, and partners and how that support can foster authenticity, connection, and growth. Expect honest reflections, a little humor, and the kind of insight that reminds you you’re not alone in the process.

Showing Up Human: Men in Therapy & Social Media Presence

Ann & Matt are joined by special guest Ben Earnest LMHC for a real, honest conversation about why it matters for therapists to show up authentically on social media as actual humans, not just highlight reels. They dive into the importance of male therapists in the field, breaking stigma, and creating space for more voices in mental health. Of course… it wouldn’t be this podcast without a little ADHD chaos, life tangents, and some laughs along the way