Family Solutions & Recovery

04/10/2026

In this episode of Therapists’ Take, we’re joined by licensed marital and family therapist Melissa Oliver to explore one of the most common questions people face when starting therapy - how do you choose the right therapist? Together, we break down the practical and emotional factors that go into finding a good fit, from understanding different therapeutic
approaches and credentials to recognizing personal preferences, boundaries, and goals. Whether you’re new to therapy or considering a change, this conversation offers grounded guidance to help listeners make informed, empowered decisions about their mental health care.
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About Our Guest: Melissa Oliver is a licensed marital and family therapist who graduated from Oklahoma State University’s MFT program in 2011. Her clinical background includes work in community mental health in
rural Oklahoma as well as service within a domestic violence agency in Stillwater, experiences that continue to inform her approach to therapy and client care. In 2019, Melissa co-founded Stillwater Counseling Center alongside Lauren Najera (pronounced Na-herra). Since its founding, the practice has grown into a thriving group of 15 therapists dedicated to serving their community.

04/09/2026

ATTN LMFT and LPC SUPERVISORS!! Don’t miss this CEU Event!! Click the link for more info and/or to register for the event. 👇

https://familysolutionsok.com/event/beyond-compliance-cultivating-ethical-excellence-in-clinical-supervision/

04/03/2026

In this episode of Therapists’ Take, we sit down with Bible professor, Dr. Jim Baird, to explore what ministers need to understand about counseling in today’s mental health landscape. Pastors and clergy are often the first call when someone is in crisis, navigating grief, marital distress, addiction, trauma, or spiritual doubt. But where does pastoral care end and clinical counseling begin?
Together, we explore the theological, psychological, and ethical complexities of caring for people in seasons of suffering. With nearly three decades of experience both training future ministers in the classroom and serving in the pulpit, Dr. Jim Baird brings a rare integration of academic rigor and pastoral wisdom to the conversation. We address the practical realities of scope of practice, knowing when and how to refer, and building thoughtful partnerships between churches and mental health professionals so congregations can be supported with both spiritual depth and clinical responsibility.

About Our Guest: Dr. Jim Baird has served as the pulpit minister at the Wilshire Church of Christ since 2001 and has been a beloved member of the faculty at Oklahoma Christian University since 1992, where he is a Distinguished Professor of Philosophy and Religion. In addition to his teaching, he has also contributed to the university’s Honors Program, helping shape generations of thoughtful students.
A graduate of Oklahoma Christian University, Dr. Baird earned his bachelor’s degree in English and Bible before completing a Master of Divinity at Harding Graduate School of Religion. He later received his D.Phil. (Doctor of Philosophy) from the University of Oxford, where his studies focused on philosophy of religion and the integration of faith and critical inquiry.
Known for his engaging teaching style and deep commitment to students, Dr. Baird has spent decades helping others wrestle thoughtfully with life’s biggest questions. While he is widely respected as a scholar and minister, he is equally known for his warmth, humor, and genuine investment in people.
Jim has been married to his wife, Yodie, for 47 years. Together they have three children—James, Taylor, and Elizabeth—and six grandchildren. And if you get the chance, don’t hesitate to ask him about them—he’ll be glad you did.

03/27/2026

In this episode, returning guest Kristen Callaway, LMFT, reframes what mindfulness really means from a trauma-informed lens. Moving beyond the stereotypes of long meditations or overly intentional rituals, she breaks down mindfulness as a practical, accessible tool for everyday life.

Together, we explore how being present with your internal experience can help you better understand your needs, respond more effectively in challenging moments, and ultimately improve your relationships. Whether you're new to mindfulness or feel like it’s “not for you,” this conversation offers a grounded, compassionate approach that meets you where you are.

02/24/2026

“When our [relational] self-awareness is low, then we will persist in our expectation of our partner to take responsibility for relational wounds or injuries that they did not cause, which often results in partner developing a bad case of the ‘not-good-enoughs.’”

Click link to read more.

Most couples don’t walk into relationships empty-handed. Along with love, attraction, and hope, each person brings a history of experiences — some supportive, some disappointing, and some deeply unfinished. Over time, those past relationships can quietly shape what we expect from the person stan...

02/22/2026

We were thrilled to have join us for the Therapists’ Take Podcast to continue our discussion on the healing power of stories and storytelling. Please follow her and her movie that is in post production starring the legendary, Martin Sheen.

02/13/2026

Funny moment on Therapists’ Take Podcast!

02/04/2026

Growth doesn’t happen in isolation, it happens in conversation. Join Therapists’ Take w/ Josh & Carrie LIVE on YouTube or Facebook Fridays at 9 AM, where meaningful conversations meet practical tools for everyday life.

01/27/2026

✨ NEW SERIES ANNOUNCEMENT ✨

Stories don’t just entertain us — they heal us.

We’re excited to launch a new live series on The Therapists’ Take Podcast:
🎙 The Healing Power of Stories & Storytelling

Across three live conversations, we’ll explore how stories shape meaning, foster resilience, and help us heal — whether they’re written, performed, or brought to life on screen.

🗓 Upcoming LIVE Episodes:
📖 Jan 30 – How Stories Shape Meaning, Healing & Resiliency
with Marty Ludlum, novelist

🎭 Feb 6 – The Power of the Stage: Healing Through Performance & Shared Experience
with Jim Perkin, theatre director

🎬 Feb 22 – Why Movies Move Us: Bringing Our Stories to Life
with Erin Cook, producer, screenwriter & actor

Join us live, bring your curiosity, and let’s talk about the stories that change us.

The LIVE event will happen on Facebook & YouTube. Scan the QR code to follow us on YouTube. Edited versions will be uploaded to the podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify.


Creativity LivePodcast MeaningMaking

01/23/2026

Tune in to Therapists’ Take with Carrie and Josh for great discussion! About to drop a very important episode with attorney, Brian Putnam, where we discuss practical tips on safety planning for victims of emotional abuse and/domestic violence. Stay tuned!!

01/17/2026

Be mindful what you name your kids.