In this vulnerable and powerful episode of Project I Am, Dr. David Schlosz peels back the mask many of us wear—the smile that hides the ache. Centered around his original spoken word poem, David explores how we often live on autopilot, clinging to humor, charm, and control as coping strategies rooted in early survival.

Drawing from Internal Family Systems, trauma research, and personal reflection, this episode unpacks how defensive ego states and old patterns become our default identities—even when they no longer serve us. Through storytelling, insight, and a guided mindfulness practice, David gently invites us to come home to ourselves, reminding us that we don’t have to perform to be loved.

This is an invitation to wake up. To be present. And to know, maybe for the first time, that being here—just as you are—is enough.

In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode of Project I Am, Dr. David Schlosz sits down with somatically-oriented psychotherapist Whitney Sutherland to explore what it truly means to heal from complex trauma. Drawing from both clinical expertise and personal experience, Whitney shares how early attachment wounds shape our sense of self—and how healing becomes possible through presence, curiosity, and authentic relationship.

Together, they unpack the nuances of C-PTSD, the difference between disconnection and avoidance, and the powerful role of the nervous system in trauma recovery. Whitney also introduces the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), offering a compassionate framework for understanding survival strategies not as pathology, but as brilliant adaptations.

This episode is a must-listen for therapists, trauma survivors, and anyone longing to reclaim their aliveness. It’s a gentle reminder that healing doesn’t require force—just the right relationship, safety, and time.

Topics include:

• The difference between shock trauma and complex trauma
• How childhood survival strategies shape adult relationships
• Why honoring disconnection is essential for building capacity
• The therapeutic power of authenticity and consent
• How healing ripples out from the individual to the collective

Resources Mentioned:

• www.whitneysutherland.com
• www.complextraumatrainingcenter.com
• Transforming Trauma Podcast by the NARM Institute

In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful — and often overlooked — truths in therapy: the healing lies not in the techniques we use, but in the authentic relationships we build. Drawing from Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach, Relational-Cultural Theory, and current research, we’ll unpack why the therapeutic relationship is more important than any core theory or intervention.

We’ll talk honestly about why therapists sometimes hesitate to prioritize connection, the personal and professional costs of staying guarded, and the courage it takes to lean into real relational work. Through composite case examples, published studies, and reflections from practice, we’ll look at the profound beauty and benefits that unfold when we show up fully — human to human.

Whether you’re a mental health professional, counseling student, or someone passionate about the heart of healing, this episode invites you to deepen your understanding of what truly transforms lives inside the therapy room.

Join me for an encouraging, challenging, and inspiring conversation about the real work behind the work: connection.