Épisodes

  • Ep 6: Navigating Tech in Private Practice with Uriah Guilford
    Sep 25 2025

    In this episode, Rachel sits down with Uriah Guilford, licensed therapist, group practice owner, author of The Productive Practice, and founder of Productive Therapist, to discuss how technology and AI are transforming private mental health practices. They explore practical strategies for integrating AI into both the clinical and business sides of therapy, while maintaining ethical care, client privacy, and the human connection that makes therapy effective.

    Uriah shares his insights on the latest mental health tech trends, including AI avatars, virtual receptionists, and AI tools for practice operations. He also discusses predictions for the future of mental health care, how therapists can thoughtfully adopt technology, and ways to enhance efficiency without losing the personal touch that clients value.

    Time-Stamped Highlights
    0:24 – 1:34 – Key mental health tech trends and news shaping the conversation
    4:18 – 4:57 – Guest introduction: Uriah Guilford
    4:57 – 10:31 – AI mindset shifts, integration in practice operations, and predictions for clinical and business use
    14:12 – 17:05 – Recommended systems and tools for private practice
    19:18 – 22:48 – Using AI to augment operations: virtual assistants, AI receptionists, and human handoffs
    22:48 – 24:35 – Key takeaways: ethical adoption, mindful use, and enhancing client support

    Articles & Resources

    • 27 Top Mental Health Startups to Watch in 2025 – Startup Savant

    • Why Psychiatry May Be the Last Frontier for AI Disruption – Forbes

    • Mental Health Tech in 2025: Consolidation, Personalization, and the Uneven Reality of Access – BeeKey

    Connect with Uriah Guilford

    • Website: Productive Therapist

    • Website: Intune Family

    • Facebook: Productive Therapist

    • Instagram: @productivetherapist

    Connect with Us

    • Website: Trauma Specialists Training

    • Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution

    • LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution

    • Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

    Music by Zach Harrison

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    25 min
  • Ep 5: Preparing for the AI Shift in Therapy with Dr. Jordan Harris
    Sep 18 2025

    In this episode of The Mental Health Evolution Podcast, Rachel sits down with Dr. Jordan Harris to explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in therapy and mental health care. They discuss the ethical, practical, and professional implications of AI tools, including large language models and autonomous systems, and what therapists and clients need to know to navigate this shifting landscape. Jordan shares his insights as a therapist, coach, and researcher, offering guidance on how the mental health field can adapt, responsibly use AI, and maintain high-quality care.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • The emerging use of AI in therapy, including note-taking and co-pilot tools

    • Ethical considerations around client data, privacy, and informed consent

    • How AI may enhance or challenge traditional therapeutic expertise

    • Industry developments, including tech startups and insurance collaborations shaping care

    • Practical steps for therapists to responsibly integrate AI into practice

    Articles Mentioned:

    • Telehealth.org: Amazon Health Services and Talkspace Partner for Virtual Therapy

    • Fortune: In a showdown of psychotherapists vs ChatGPT, the latter wins — New study finds

    • Dr. Jordan Harris: AI is Reshaping Psychotherapy: We Have Two Years to Get Ready

    Connect with Us:
    Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com
    Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution
    LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution
    Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

    Connect with Dr. Jordan Harris:
    Website: https://www.jordanthecounselor.com
    LinkedIn: Jordan Harris

    Music by Zach Harrison

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    23 min
  • Ep 4: When AI Meets Therapy: Risks, Ethics, and Advocacy with Dr. Ajita Robinson
    Sep 11 2025

    In this episode of The Mental Health Evolution Podcast, Rachel sits down with Dr. Ajita Robinson to explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in mental health care. They discuss the ethical, legal, and practical challenges of AI chatbots, the risks of unregulated technology, and what it means for both therapists and clients. Ajita shares her insights as a therapist, coach, and advocate, offering guidance on how the mental health field can protect both its professionals and the people they serve.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • The emerging use of AI in therapy and its potential risks

    • Legislative developments around AI in mental health

    • Advocacy for protecting the professional identity of therapists

    • How tech startups and insurance collaborations are reshaping access to care

    • Practical steps for therapists to advocate for the field and their clients

    Articles Mentioned:

    • Manatt Health: Health AI Policy Tracker — Keeping track of federal and state AI policy developments

    • Axios: Tech firms and states look to rein in AI chatbots’ mental health advice — The growing push to regulate chatbot therapy apps

    • Behavioral Health Business: CareFirst + Headway collaboration — How insurers and startups are reshaping access to care

    Connect with Us:
    Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com
    Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution
    LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution
    Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

    Connect with Dr. Ajita Robinson:
    Instagram: @dr.ajitarobinson
    Facebook: Dr. Ajita
    LinkedIn: Ajita Robinson
    Website: ajitarobinson.com

    Music by Zach Harrison

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    30 min
  • Ep 3: Strategy, Not Panic with Jeremy Zug
    Sep 3 2025
    In this episode, we explore the changing landscape of mental health, focusing on insurance trends, private practice growth, and the impact of tech and venture capital. Jeremy Zug shares his insights from over a decade in healthcare, helping mental health professionals optimize revenue and operational efficiency. Whether you’re a clinician, practice owner, or industry observer, this conversation provides actionable strategies and a big-picture view of the market. Key Topics Covered: Insurance trends and payer changes affecting private practices The rise of independent providers and network expansion Value-based care, tech companies, and future predictions for mental health services Timestamps: (0:00) Intro (0:32) Industry trends and insurance landscape overview (3:33) Jeremy Zug bio and Practice Solutions background (5:43) Independent practice growth and adding providers to networks (7:14) Insurance leverage and provider options (9:08) Impact of tech companies and prior authorization trends (18:16) Value-based care challenges and opportunities (22:05) How Practice Solutions supports private practices Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Becker’s Behavioral Health: Flurry of Behavioral M&A Continues – 12 Deals to Know https://www.beckersbehavioralhealth.com/behavioral-health-capital-investment/flurry-of-behavioral-ma-continues-12-deals-to-know/ Fierce Healthcare: Octave Nabs $52 Million to Expand Network Therapy Services https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/digital-health/octave-nabs-52-million-expand-network-therapy-services Guest Information and Links: Jeremy Zug has over a decade of experience in the healthcare industry. He is known for his expertise in insurance billing and frequently writes and speaks on topics that support mental health professionals in achieving financial health and operational excellence. He co-founded Practice Solutions with his wife Kathryn in 2017, relying on their combined knowledge from private practices they had worked at while in college. Practice Solutions is an expanded medical billing company offering billing services, professional services, and educational resources to thousands of mental and behavioral healthcare providers for optimal revenue cycle management. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-zug-9811626b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/practicesolutionsbillingllc/ Practice Solutions: https://www.practicesol.com/ Connect with Us: Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com/mental-health-entrepreneur-podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthevolution/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-mental-health-evolution Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMentalHealthEntrepreneur/ Takeaway Quote: “Understanding insurance trends and the evolving mental health landscape is critical for clinicians and private practices looking to thrive in today’s market.” Music credit: Zach Harrison
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    26 min
  • Ep 2: Real Change
    Sep 3 2025
    In this episode, Rachel Harrison highlights a local grassroots effort to address the evolving mental health landscape. The Real Change Initiative brings together local leaders in mental health to educate the community, advocate for ethical standards, and preserve the human connection in therapy. The conversation covers how technology is shaping care, the importance of licensed practitioners, and the need for transparency in mental health platforms. Key Topics: The Real Change Initiative and its goals Preserving human connection in mental health care Ethical and privacy considerations in tech-driven therapy Educating consumers about their choices in mental health services The role of research, advocacy, and community unity Key Timestamps: (0:05) Podcast introduction and network info (0:45) Overview of a local community effort: Real Change Initiative (4:00) Creation of the Real Therapy, Real Change video (6:20) Importance of relationship and human connection in therapy (23:00) Key takeaways: real therapy, education, and client choice Links and Resources: Real Therapy, Real Change video: https://traumaspecialistsofmd.com/real-therapy-real-change-initiative/ Articles Discussed: Mental Health Care Innovation: Startups Shaping the Future of Mental Health Care – Insights and Trends Full URL: https://fastercapital.com/content/Mental-health-care-innovation--Startups-Shaping-the-Future-of-Mental-Health-Care--Insights-and-Trends.html UnitedHealth Group, University of Minnesota Partner to Launch Course on Value-Based Care Full URL: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/unitedhealth-group-university-minnesota-partner-launch-course-value-based-care Federal Judge Says Class Privacy Claims May Proceed Against an Online Mental Health Platform Full URL: https://www.courthousenews.com/federal-judge-says-class-privacy-claims-may-proceed-against-online-mental-health-platform/ CVS Health, UnitedHealth Group, and the U.S. Health Care System Mergers Full URL: https://fortune.com/longform/cvs-health-unitedhealth-group-us-health-care-system-mergers/?tpcc=mag-issue-blast Guest Details: Dr. Alison Bomba – Psychologist, author, speaker, consultant, and active community member. Provides grief therapy and exposure-based CBT for children, teens, and young adults. Recognized in 2024 as one of Maryland's Top 100 Women and awarded the Leadership Frederick County Alumni Emergent Leader Award. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alisonbomba/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/drbomba Instagram: www.instagram.com/dralisonbomba/ Aaron Vander Meer, LCSW-C – Clinical social worker with over 17 years of experience in mental health and addictions. Specializes in serious mental illness, psychotic disorders, and solutions-focused therapy. Serves as the Program Director at ClearView Communities in Frederick, MD. Holds advanced clinical licensure, national certifications in employment services, and has led person-centered programs both nationally and internationally. Passionate about empowering individuals through mental health advocacy, program development, and community partnership. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-vander-meer-876b4766/ Website: clearviewcommunities.org Melissa Ward, LCPC, NCC – Maryland-licensed clinical professional counselor and National Certified Counselor. Works with adolescents, adults, and families, creating a therapeutic environment that addresses challenges and explores possibilities. Offers both in-person and telehealth therapy, focusing on communication, anxiety reduction, transitions, relationship improvement, and coping skills. Holds a B.S. in Communications from Florida International University and an M.S. in Counselor Education from McDaniel College. Formerly worked as a social worker and community relations manager for the National MS Society, Maryland Chapter. Website: www.melissawardcounselingservices.com Connect with Us: Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com/mental-health-entrepreneur-podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthevolution/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-mental-health-evolution Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMentalHealthEntrepreneur/ Takeaway Quote: “We need to move beyond just providing services and focus on promoting independence, purpose, and belonging.” – Aaron Vander Meer Music by Zach Harrison
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    25 min
  • Ep 1: Welcome to the New Chapter of the Podcast
    Sep 3 2025

    Welcome to the new chapter of the Mental Health Evolution podcast. In this inaugural episode, host Rachel Harrison explores the rapid changes happening in the mental health industry. She discusses the impact of larger players entering the field, how insurance and tech companies are reshaping care, and what this means for consumers and providers alike. Drawing on lessons from the pharmaceutical industry, Rachel highlights the influence of business practices on access, pricing, and sustainability in mental health care.

    Key Topics:

    • Evolution of the mental health industry post-COVID

    • Opportunities and challenges for independent providers

    • Insurance and tech companies’ influence on care delivery

    • Lessons from the pharmaceutical industry

    Key Timestamps:

    • (0:05) Podcast introduction and network information

    • (0:11) Welcome and purpose of Mental Health Evolution

    • (1:24) Rebrand from Mental Health Entrepreneur to Mental Health Evolution

    • (5:29) Episode format and approach

    • (6:14) Historical perspective: Independent pharmacies article

    Links and Resources:

    • Article referenced: https://www.mercurynews.com/2024/09/01/independent-pharmacies-say-theyre-being-squeezed-by-shadowy-middlemen-tied-to-big-health-chains/

    • Connect with Us:

      • Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com/mental-health-entrepreneur-podcast

      • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthevolution/

      • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-mental-health-evolution

      • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMentalHealthEntrepreneur/

    Takeaway Quote:
    “Funding in the billions can change an industry and decide what it will look like because money talks.” – Rachel Harrison

    Music by Zach Harrison

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    12 min
  • 52: Wrapping Up 2024 and What's Next for the Podcast
    Dec 26 2024

    In this final episode of 2024, Rachel reflects on an incredible year of The Mental Health Entrepreneur Podcast. From inspiring stories to innovative ideas, she highlights the episodes and conversations that left a lasting impact. She explores the evolving concept of mental wellness, showing how it extends far beyond traditional mental health care. Looking ahead, Rachel announces an exciting new chapter for the podcast. After a brief hiatus in January and February to “winter” and nurture fresh ideas, the show will return in March with a rebrand and renewed vision. To keep the conversation going, Rachel is also launching a newsletter, so listeners can stay connected and inspired during the break.

    Tune in to celebrate the journey so far, and get a sneak peek at what’s coming next! Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter for updates and exclusive content.

    themhepod@gmail.com

    Episode Timestamps:

    • (002:10) A look back at the 2024 episodes
    • (04:00) Broadening the concept of mental wellness
    • (05:40) Looking ahead; future plans and ideas
    • (08:00) Newsletter announcement and taking a break

    A Closer Look at Complex Trauma and Dissociation

    Register Now for the January 2025 Training!

    Watch this episode on YouTube:

    youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

    Connect with Rachel:

    Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

    Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

    Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

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    11 min
  • 51: Creating Peaceful Workplaces | Dr. Sujata Ives of the Book, Activate Success
    Dec 19 2024

    Dr. Sujata Ives gives valuable insights into creating harmony in professional settings and understanding the intercultural movement. She discusses the importance of peaceful workplaces, adapting to different leadership styles, and the significant changes in work dynamics due to the pandemic. She also explains the benefits of remote work for work-life balance and advocates for non-verbal communication during virtual meetings. Dr. Sujata also touches on the topic of interculturalism, emphasizing the importance of dialogues and storytelling to bridge cultural gaps.

    Connect with Dr. Sujata Ives:

    Dr. Sujata Ives is a workplace global consultant and leader in the field of career development and employment counseling. She is a sought-after international speaker and international best-selling author of the book and workbook “Activate Success” available on Amazon. Sujata is the 2023 recipient of the National Career Development Association’s Diversity Initiative Award. She was chosen to participate in the 2024 NCDA Leadership Academy class, where she conducted a national and international study through a needs analysis on intercultural leadership.

    Sujata is the current Chair of the Leadership Academy of the NCDA; the Chair of the Program Committee of the APCDA; Community Coordinator of the World Council on Global & Intercultural Competency. Sujata has an earned Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and is a Harvard trained Mediator. She believes in autonomy to change, evolving and adapting career development in revolutionary times, needed to equip the human brain with competencies that can enable us to think critically and act inclusively on the competitive global stage.

    drsujataives.com

    info@drsujataives.com

    Linkedin.com/in/drsujataivesphd

    Amazon Book: "Activate Success: Tips, Tools, & Insights to be a Leader in Your Niche"

    Episode Timestamps:

    • (03:20) Dr. Sujata’s background and work as a career counselor
    • (05:20) The role leadership plays in workplace harmony
    • (10:30) Remote work post-COVID
    • (15:00) The right balance between remote and physical interaction
    • (20:45) The intercultural shift
    • (24:25) Connecting the dots to bridge diverse cultural and emotional needs

    A Closer Look at Complex Trauma and Dissociation

    Register Now for the January 2025 Training!

    Watch this episode on YouTube:

    youtube.com/@TheMentalHealthEntrepreneurPod

    Connect with Rachel:

    Facebook Group: The Mental Health Entrepreneur

    Website: traumaspecialiststraining.com

    Instagram: instagram.com/trauma_specialist

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796

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    27 min