"So the piece that I most resonate with the Dialectical Behavior Therapy is it's one of the therapies that really understands this core feeling of feeling overwhelmed and like you don't want to be alive." - Sharon Stein McNamara EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sharon Stein McNamara, a licensed psychologist and adoption-competent therapist. Sharon, an adoptee herself, shared her personal journey and the profound impact of adoption on her life, particularly during her...
"So the piece that I most resonate with the Dialectical Behavior Therapy is it's one of the therapies that really understands this core feeling of feeling overwhelmed and like you don't want to be alive." - Sharon Stein McNamara
EPISODE SUMMARY:
In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sharon Stein McNamara, a licensed psychologist and adoption-competent therapist. Sharon, an adoptee herself, shared her personal journey and the profound impact of adoption on her life, particularly during her adolescent years when she faced suicidal thoughts after a breakup.
We delved into the complexities of adoption and how they can lead to feelings of self-loathing and overwhelming distress, especially among adoptees. Sharon introduced us to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a therapeutic approach that has been particularly effective for adopted adolescents and young adults. She explained how DBT incorporates mindfulness and distress tolerance skills, which are crucial for individuals who may feel their emotions are too intense to manage.
Throughout our conversation, Sharon emphasized the importance of recognizing and validating these feelings rather than dismissing them. She shared her own experiences with DBT and how it helped her and her clients navigate the challenges of attachment and self-worth. We discussed the significance of shifting core beliefs about oneself, especially for adoptees who may struggle with feelings of being unwanted or unworthy.
Sharon's insights provided hope and practical tools for families and individuals impacted by adoption. She encouraged listeners to never give up hope on adoptees, as the right support and understanding can lead to healing and growth.
I hope this episode resonates with anyone who has been touched by adoption or is seeking effective therapeutic tools to support themselves or their loved ones. Thank you for joining us, and please share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Sharon's expertise.
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RESOURCES:
Sharon's information:
Other resources mentioned in this episode:
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Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson
Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao
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TIME STAMPS
00:00:00 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption
00:01:30 - Guest Introduction: Sharon Stein McNamara
00:02:00 - Sharon's Adoption Story
00:03:40 - Understanding DBT and Its Relevance
00:04:50 - The Importance of Distress Tolerance
00:06:30 - DBT vs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
00:08:30 - Grounding Techniques in DBT
00:10:00 - Building Trust with Clients
00:10:30 - Working with Adoptees in Therapy
00:11:00 - Self-Loathing and Adoptee Experiences
00:12:30 - Personal Story: Overcoming Breakup Trauma
00:15:00 - The Impact of Attachment on Relationships
00:17:00 - DBT Skills for Managing Cravings
00:19:00 - The Role of Core Beliefs in Healing
00:21:00 - Finding a DBT-Trained Therapist
00:23:00 - Outcomes of DBT for Adoptees
00:25:00 - Final Thoughts and Resources
00:26:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action
