Renae Johnson (they/them) sits down with Jose Rosario (he/him) of Phoenix Empowered for a powerful conversation about identity, storytelling, and mental health as pathways to collective healing. Jose shares his lived experience as a queer Latino man with a disability and how storytelling has become both a personal and political act—one that resists erasure, challenges identity-based harm, and creates space for radical healing. Together, they explore how hate-based trauma and systemic oppression show up in the body and mind, why representation in mental health is necessary but not enough, and how community care and cultural practices can foster real empowerment. This conversation names anxiety not as a personal flaw, but as a rational response to ongoing threats, and invites listeners to engage in community, storytelling, and advocacy as acts of resistance and care. Through the lens of Phoenix Empowered, Renae and Jose remind us that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens when we are seen, heard, and held in community.

Takeaways

Storytelling is a powerful tool for healing.

Identity-based harm includes various forms of violence, not just physical.

Representation in mental health is crucial but not sufficient.

Community support is essential for healing and empowerment.

Radical healing involves understanding systemic oppression.

Cultural practices play a significant role in healing.

Anxiety can be a response to systemic threats.

Engagement in community can be a form of resistance.

Phoenix Empowered aims to amplify marginalized voices.

Mentioned in this Episode: Jose’s Ted Talk

Queer Moment of Joy

Guest 1: Harley He/They @bb.musicstudio

Guest 2: Shauna She/Her @palsbarla

Guest Bio :

José Rosario is a mental health activist, researcher, and clinician and founder of The Phoenix Empowered, a nonprofit that helps organizations develop culturally-informed mental and social health protocols. José’s lived experience as a gay, Latino person who uses a wheelchair has informed both his clinical practice and his consulting work with organizations such as Home Depot, DoorDash, Shell and Johnson & Johnson.

José has spoken at TEDx, Washington State University, University of California Irvine, Arizona State University, ATOP MeaningfulWorld United Nations Affiliate Org, and the National Association of Councils for Developmental Disabilities, among many others.

He has served as an American Psychological Association (APA) Interdisciplinary Minority Fellow and is an active member of the APA’s Division of Trauma Psychology Policy and Anti-Oppression Committees. He also serves on the Community Advisory Board for the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office and the Congressional Advisory Board for former Congressman James Langevin. He has been honored with the Chris Martin Humanitarian Award and the Victoria Lederberg Award for Excellence in Psychology.

Host Bio:

Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.

As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

In this episode of My Therapist Is Out!, therapists Kristen Crowe (they/them) and Terra Friedman (she/her) unpack how identity-based harm disconnects us from our bodies—and from each other. Through somatic, relational, and systemic lenses, they explore why so many LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, neurodivergent, and immigrant folks feel “too much” in some spaces and “not enough” in others, and how disembodiment can become a survival strategy in unsafe systems. Grounded in real therapy room conversations and lived experience, this episode names the impact of racism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of marginalization—while offering compassionate, practical ways to reconnect with your body, access community care, and remember that you don’t have to be fully healed to take up space or belong.

Takeaways

Identity-based harm targets individuals based on their identity.

Embodiment involves awareness of one's physical and emotional state.

Community care is a collective responsibility for well-being.

Disconnection from the body can lead to isolation.

Healing often occurs within community settings.

Societal norms can create barriers to connection.

Finding the right community can be a gradual process.

It's important to listen to your body's needs.

You don't have to be fully healed to engage with others.

Taking small steps can lead to greater community involvement.

Keywordsidentity-based harm, community care, embodiment, mental health, LGBTQ+, therapy, self-discovery, healing, connection, support

Mentioned in this Episode:

Instagram accounts: @beingqueerinla @silentbookclubla @beingqueerinla @sapphicla @everywhereisqueer @heyfam @queerasiansocialclub

Queer Moment of Joy

Guest 1: Matthew Schmuck He/Him @matthewschmuck

Guest 2: Katherine Kottaras She/They @katherinekotaras

Kristen Crowe BC-DMT, LPCC, CST Bio :

Kristen (they/them) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, Sex Therapists and Clinical Director with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day.

Terra Friedman AMFT Bio:

Terra (she/her) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Terra specializes in working with high achieving womxn who experience anxiety. Terra also works with couples and partners who are currently in or exploring non-monogamous relationships.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

In this first episode of our series, Ernesto Martinez introduces the concept of identity-based harm and the power of community care. Centered on LGBTQ+ experiences, Ernesto discusses the mental health impacts of discrimination, systemic violence, and ongoing political targeting, highlighting how anger can unite rather than isolate. The episode explores the historical roots of mutual aid within queer movements—from 1970s grassroots organizing to HIV/AIDS activism—and points to present-day actions shaping community wellness. Listeners are invited to reflect on their role in fostering collective care and imagine the blueprint for future LGBTQ+ mental health and support.

Takeaways:

• Identity-based harm includes discrimination, stereotyping, verbal abuse, and systemic violations of rights.
  

• Community-based care encompasses mutual aid, protests, boycotts, harm reduction, and preventive responses.
  

• Historical LGBTQ+ movements, including activism during the AIDS epidemic, inform modern approaches to care.
  

• Mental health impacts of identity-based harm can manifest as hypervigilance, anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
  

• Anger can act as a unifying force when channeled toward collective action.
  

• Present-day community care continues to address gaps left by institutions failing under political pressures.
  

• Recognizing your role in community care is a step toward shaping inclusive, intersectional wellness practices.

Mentioned in this Episode:

LA Queer Coalition

Phoenix Empowered

MTIO Episodes:

“Can Rage Be Healthy?” with Debbie Whyte

“Decolonize Your Health” with Lynsi Stevens (Crystal Case Apothecary)

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Julia she/they @juliamaeabrams

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Meredith she/her @pezmer

Host Bio:

Ernesto Martinez APCC, AMFT (they/elle/he/el) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Ernesto specializes in working with Adults, Teens, & Parents of Gender Expansive Children, Adult Children of (im)Migrants to transform challenges into stepping stones towards self-compassion, fulfillment, and confidence.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Keywords: #LGBTQCommunity #QueerHealing #CommunityCare #IdentityBasedHarm #MutualAid #HarmReduction #QueerWellness #MentalHealthMatters #CollectiveCare #BIPOCMentalHealth #TransAdvocacy #QueerResistance #InclusiveCare #SocialJusticeWork #HealingInCommunity

In Part Two of our LGBTQ+ Neurodiversity Q&A, host Renae Johnson (they/them) returns with Mikey Whited (they/them, Psych NP) to dive into the practical side of living as a neurodivergent queer adult. From managing executive dysfunction and workplace advocacy to creating sensory-friendly spaces at home, this episode is packed with strategies to help your neurodivergent brain thrive—not just survive.

They also explore the deeper work of healing, identity, and self-acceptance: how to tell the difference between protective masking and harmful masking, ways to unlearn internalized ableism, and how to support yourself or loved ones in embracing neurodivergent identity. Together, Renae and Mikey remind us that thriving as a neurodivergent person means finding joy, connection, and authenticity in your daily life.

Takeaways:

• Realistic strategies for managing executive dysfunction when even “basic tasks” feel impossible
  

• Advocating for yourself in school, work, or social spaces without fear of stigma
  

• Recognizing burnout and creating space to recover
  

• How to make your home environment sensory-friendly and supportive
  

• Distinguishing between masking for safety and masking that harms mental health
  

• Tools to unlearn internalized ableism and shame
  

• Supporting loved ones in understanding and accepting their neurodivergent identity
  

• What thriving looks like beyond coping: embracing strengths, joy, and authenticity
  

Part Two closes out our practical and personal dive into LGBTQ+ neurodiversity, offering tools, insights, and encouragement to navigate daily life, relationships, and self-care with confidence and compassion.

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Cornelius He/Him @corneliusjonesjr

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Brough She/Her

Guest Bio :

Mikey Whited RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (they/them) is a psychiatric nurse practitioner working in Los Angeles, California. Mikey specializes in queer and trans psychiatric medication and mental health care for adults and older teens. Mikey is passionate about changing the psychiatry paradigm and providing quality medication education and care for clients in a way that will ACTUALLY work to help clients achieve their lifestyle goals.

Host Bio:

Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion.

In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.

As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Keywords: #LGBTQCommunity #NeurodivergentLiving #QueerAndNeurodivergent #ExecutiveDysfunction #WorkplaceAdvocacy #SensoryFriendly #NeurodivergentJoy #AuthenticLiving #MaskingAndUnmasking #InternalizedAbleism #SelfAcceptance #NeurodivergentPride #CommunitySupport #HealingAndGrowth #ThrivingNotSurviving #MentalHealthMatters #InclusiveSpaces #QueerHealing #NeurodivergentStrengths

LGBTQ+ Neurodiversity Q&A (Part One) — Closing Reflections on the Series with Renae Johnson (they/them) & Mikey Whited, Psych NP (they/them)

As we wrap up our Neurodiversity Series, host Renae Johnson and returning guest Mikey Whited sit down to answer your biggest questions about neurodivergence through a queer mental health lens. From how to know if you’re neurodivergent, to navigating communication and emotional regulation in relationships, this episode brings together the key themes from across the series—self-understanding, acceptance, and the radical power of community care.

Together, they unpack what it actually looks like to live as a neurodivergent queer adult, the nuances of ADHD and autism, and why trauma and chronic stress can sometimes blur those lines. This isn’t just a Q&A—it’s a grounding conversation about belonging, validation, and learning to work with your brain, not against it.

Series Takeaways:

• Understanding how ADHD, autism, and sensory differences overlap and diverge
  

• Why so many LGBTQ+ folks are late-diagnosed and how systemic bias plays a role
  

• The difference between trauma responses and neurodivergent traits
  

• Building communication that centers curiosity over correction
  

• Why emotional regulation is a practice, not a performance
  

• The role of community in unmasking, healing, and finding joy
  

This episode closes out our six-part journey into LGBTQ+ neurodiversity—but the conversation doesn’t end here. Keep revisiting these stories, share them with your people, and remember: your brain is not broken. It’s beautifully, uniquely yours.

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Chi, She, @bigchii888

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Paige, She/Her, @paigeraycreative

Guest Bio :

Mikey Whited RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (they/them) is a psychiatric nurse practitioner working in Los Angeles, California. Mikey specializes in queer and trans psychiatric medication and mental health care for adults and older teens. Mikey is passionate about changing the psychiatry paradigm and providing quality medication education and care for clients in a way that will ACTUALLY work to help clients achieve their lifestyle goals.

Host Bio:

Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion.

In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.

As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Keywords: #Neurodiversity #ADHD #AutismAcceptance #QueerMentalHealth #NeurodivergentVoices #CommunityCare #SelfUnderstanding #EmotionalRegulation #TraumaHealing #Unmasking #Acceptance #SensoryDifferences #LateDiagnosis #Neuroqueer #RadicalSelfAcceptance #HealingJourney #NeurodivergentCommunity #MentalHealthAwareness #YourBrainIsBeautiful

In this episode of My Therapist is Out!, Kristen Crowe (they/them) and Ernesto Martinez (they/he) dive into what it really means to navigate the world as queer and neurodivergent. Together, they unpack how neurotypical standards often miss the mark, why compassionate frameworks matter, and how therapy can shift when it’s designed with neurodiverse folks in mind. From the pressures of societal expectations to the beauty of play, experimentation, and self-acceptance, Kristen and Ernesto remind us that thriving means rewriting the rules — not squeezing into them.

Takeaways

Neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of cognitive variations.

Understanding neurodivergence requires a compassionate and non-pathological lens.

Societal standards often fail to accommodate neurodiverse individuals.

Communication needs vary greatly among neurodiverse people.

Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding neurodiverse experiences.

Access to care is a significant barrier for many neurodiverse individuals.

Self-diagnosis can be a valid and empowering process.

Community support is essential for neurodiverse individuals.

Therapists should be aware of systemic issues affecting their clients.

Exploration and play are vital in understanding one's neurodiverse identity.

Mentioned in this Episode: NeeDoh https://myneedoh.com/

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Manny They/Them @projectqla

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Sage She/They @e_sage_

Hosts Bio:

Kristen Crowe LPCC, BC-DMT (they/them) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day.

Ernesto Martinez APCC, AMFT (they/elle/he/el) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Ernesto specializes in working with Adults, Teens, & Parents of Gender Expansive Children, Adult Children of (im)Migrants to transform challenges into stepping stones towards self-compassion, fulfillment, and confidence.

🌈 About Open Space Therapy Collective

Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC) is a queer- and trans-led mental health collective built on the belief that therapy should feel like a place where every part of you belongs. Our team of LGBTQ+ and QTPOC therapists create space for healing that is affirming, justice-driven, and rooted in community care. From navigating identity to unpacking trauma to celebrating joy, OSTC is here for the full spectrum of queer experience.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Keywords: neurodiversity, neurodivergence, therapy, mental health, queer identity, self-diagnosis, community support, societal standards, communication, intersectionality

In part two, Mikey and Jennie return with Renae to move from personal stories into professional insight. As a Psych NP and ADHD Coach, they unpack the science of ADHD, the role of brain chemistry, and the ways misdiagnosis and stigma often cloud understanding. The conversation dives into medication, lifestyle strategies, and how neurodivergent brilliance can shine when supported instead of suppressed. From queerness and ADHD overlap to reclaiming creativity and authenticity, this episode is all about seeing ADHD as a source of power, not just struggle.

Takeaways

• ADHD can present differently based on gender and upbringing.

• Stimming is a common behavior in ADHD that helps with focus.

• Emotional regulation is a significant challenge for those with ADHD.

• There is a higher prevalence of ADHD in the queer community.

• Masking can lead to a loss of authenticity and self-identity.

• ADHD can often be misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression.

• Cultural perspectives greatly influence the understanding of ADHD.

• Positive traits of ADHD include creativity and spontaneity.

• Understanding brain chemistry is crucial for managing ADHD.

• Personal experiences with ADHD can vary widely, even within families.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Medications mentioned in episode:

Stimulant Medications: Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, Dextroamphetamine, Amphetamine salts

Non-Stimulant Medications: Wellbutrin (bupropion), Strattera (atomoxetine), Guanfacine

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Celena Pentagulio she/her

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Kate she/her

Guest Bio :

Jennie Larsen, MA (she/her), is an education specialist working in San Jose, CA. She holds an elementary and a special education credential and has a masters in education leadership. Jennie is also an executive function coach. Her passion is making education accessible for all students, with focuses in phonics and executive functioning skills.

Mikey Whited RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (they/them) is a psychiatric nurse practitioner working in Los Angeles, California. Mikey specializes in queer and trans psychiatric medication and mental health care for adults and older teens. Mikey is passionate about changing the psychiatry paradigm and providing quality medication education and care for clients in a way that will ACTUALLY work to help clients achieve their lifestyle goals.

Host Bio:

Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Board-Certified Art Therapist, and the Founder of Open Space Therapy Collective, a group practice offering affirming, social justice-driven mental health care for the LGBTQ+ & QTPOC community. With clinical expertise in complex trauma, identity development, and creative expression, Renae blends therapeutic depth with a commitment to equity and inclusion.

In addition to their clinical work, Renae produces community wellness events like Queerly Connected and is a founding member of the LA Queer Coalition, creating spaces where queer and trans people can gather, heal, organize, and celebrate.

As a speaker, consultant, and activist, Renae is passionate about building systems of care that honor the full humanity of queer and trans individuals—and equipping healthcare and wellness providers with the tools to do the same.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Keywords: #ADHD #ADHDAwareness #Neurodivergent #Neurospicy #Neurodiversity #Stimulants #NonStimulants #MentalHealthMeds #PsychiatricCare #BodyDoubling #RoutineBuilding #FidgetTools #QueerTherapist #QueerJoy #QueerCommunity #MentalHealthInQueerSpaces