Overcoming Division: A Nation Reclaimed with Elaine Belson & Phyllis E. Leavitt

Sep 3, 2024

Welcome back to another episode of Free Thinking with Montel. In this week's deeply insightful discussion, Montel Williams dives into the pressing issue of America's growing sense of division and depression. With expert perspectives from two highly esteemed guests, this episode promises to offer a profound exploration of the mental health crisis affecting our nation. Elaine Belson, a clinical social worker with 30 years of experience across clinical, military, political, and teaching settings, shares her wealth of knowledge on the intersection of mental health and societal dynamics. Having served as a Social Work Officer in the US Army and provided clinical services in Afghanistan, Elaine's unique insights into domestic violence, anger management, and community health are invaluable. Joining Elaine is Phyllis E. Leavitt, a seasoned psychotherapist and author of the groundbreaking book America in Therapy. With over 30 years of experience treating children, families, and individuals, Phyllis brings a deep understanding of dysfunctional family dynamics and their broader societal impact. Her latest work challenges us to view America as a patient in need of urgent therapeutic intervention.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding Family Dynamics:

The difference between healthy and unhealthy family dynamics.

Early warning signs of dysfunctional family dynamics.

The role of resilience in overcoming a traumatic family background.

America in Therapy:

Phyllis elaborates on viewing the nation as a patient and the elements required to repair ruptured relationships in America.

A case study from Phyllis's book illustrating successful systemic changes to address abusive dynamics.

Moving to a Shared Power Model:

Strategies for shifting from a domination/submission model to a power-shared model.

The importance of dependency on one another and the common good.

Overcoming Division:

The influence of media representation on societal dynamics and dysfunctional behavior.

Practical tips for families, co-workers, and friends to get beyond division over politics and societal issues.

Join us as we uncover the complex layers of America's mental health crisis and discuss actionable steps towards national healing. This episode promises to be both enlightening and empowering, emphasizing the importance of understanding, empathy, and collective action.

If you found this discussion helpful, consider picking up Phyllis's book America in Therapy and visiting Elaine's YouTube channel "Ask The Therapist" for more resources. Remember, change begins with understanding and empathy. Let's work together to heal our nation, one conversation at a time.

Don't miss out on this critical conversation—tune in now to Free Thinking with Montel.