102: From ICU Nurse to Mental Health Therapist: A Journey of Holistic Healing with Denise Schonwald, RN, LMHC

In this episode of the Heart Centered Therapist podcast, host Sindee Gozansky interviews Denise Schonwald, a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience who has transitioned into a nationally licensed mental health counselor and published author. Based in Sarasota, Florida, Denise discusses her holistic approach to integrating mental and physical well-being, the emotional challenges faced by patients and their families, and her unique perspective as a spiritual teacher and certified family mediator.  This episode covers a range of topics including mental health awareness, the vibrational energy of emotions, the importance of balancing work and personal life, and effective therapeutic practices for couples and first responders. Denise also shares insights from her books, offers practical advice for mental health maintenance, and emphasizes the significance of having a spiritual practice. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between physical health, mental health, and spiritual well-being. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:04 Denise's Journey from Nursing to Therapy 03:44 Integrating Physical and Mental Health 07:00 Denise's Books and Their Impact 09:34 Balancing Professional and Personal Life 14:34 Couples Therapy Insights 17:05 Understanding Emotional Energies 26:14 Understanding Mental and Physical Symptoms 26:55 Raising Vibrational Energy 27:45 Holistic Practices for Mental Health 29:47 Impact of Devices on Mental Health 31:58 Navigating First Responder Mental Health 37:03 Supporting First Responder Families 38:46 The Importance of Simplification 45:38 Denise's Work and Resources 45:38 Conclusion and Special Offer   Connect with Denise: Special Offer: Would you like to receive one of Denise's books as a gift? Email Denise: denise.schonwald@gmail.com Website: https://deniseschonwald.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deniseschonwaldllc/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@deniseschonwald/video LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-schonwald/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deniseschonwald/   Check out Berries: https://heyberries.com/heart-centered Use Discount Code: Sindee50 for $50 off your first month Connect with Sindee: Visit my website: https://heartcenteredtherapistpodcast.com/  Join the Heart-Centered Therapist Community FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/478651669638167 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredtherapist/ Shop Mental Health Threads: https://mentalhealththreads.etsy.com Interested in realigning your own practice to be more heart-centered? Join Sindee on her podcast by signing up for a Therapist Alignment Session. This brief, 15-30-minute conversation is a unique opportunity to re-align with your heart-centered approach, both in your client interactions and in the development of your practice. Whether you're at the beginning of your career or an experienced therapist, these sessions are designed to help you gain clarity on specific issues you're facing. Sign up for your Therapist Alignment Session here: https://calendly.com/heartcenteredtherapistpodcast/therapist-alignment-session Want to be a guest on the podcast? Email Sindee: hello@hctpodcast.com For more information on the Couples Therapy Mentorship Group, email me at hello@hctpodcast.com

Om Podcasten

A Simple Therapy Podcast is where real conversations and soulful insights meet the work of healing—for therapists, mental health professionals, and anyone on a growth journey. Created by a licensed therapist, supervisor, and mentor, each episode blends professional insight with personal honesty. You'll hear solo reflections, therapist education, guest interviews, and mental health journeys that speak to what it means to be human—in and out of the therapy room. Whether you're looking to strengthen your clinical skills, support your own healing, or grow a heart-centered private practice, this podcast is here to support you. 🎙️ We talk about: Therapist life: burnout, imposter syndrome, boundaries & self-care Clinical education and tools for effective, ethical practice Supervision, mentorship & therapist identity Mental health stories, education & advocacy Private practice tips & building a sustainable career This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a space for honest dialogue, shared growth, and compassionate connection. Because whether you're the therapist or the client—we’re all human here. Let’s keep it simple… and keep showing up.