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Outside The Therapy Room

Ivonne Hammoud

Ivonne Hammoud is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and owner of a therapy practice in Waterloo, Ontario. But out of the office, she's a mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend. Join Ivonne as she sits with a special guest to discuss every day things that impact our mental health! Conversations about everything from mental health and relationships, to media and current events, as well as personal experiences and reflections, all in the hopes of normalizing our humanness and helping you see that you’re not alone. This is Outside the Therapy Room!

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  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 58 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • S3 · E72
    Thursday · 55 min

    Episode 72: The Emotional Side of Buying & Selling a Home with Cheryl Goetz

    Buying or selling a home can be exciting, stressful, overwhelming, emotional… sometimes all at the same time. In this episode, Real Estate Agent Cheryl joins me to talk about what happens emotionally when a house becomes more than just a house. We explore the stress of today's housing market, the excitement and anxiety of making an offer, the grief that can come with losing out on a home, and the complicated emotions that can come with selling. Because sometimes we're not just buying or selling a house — you're navigating a major life transition. Cheryl's Website Follow Cheryl Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S3 · E71
    September 17 · 1 hr 15 min

    Episode 71: ADHD & Relationships with Molly Handsaeme

    What does ADHD look like in women—and how can it shape the way we experience ourselves and our relationships? In this episode, I sit down with ADHD therapist Molly to explore the often-overlooked experience of ADHD in women. We talk about the ways ADHD can show up in friendships, dating, intimate relationships, and the relationship we have with ourselves. We also explore rejection sensitivity, shame, perfectionism, people-pleasing, masking, and the pressure so many women feel to be organized, productive, emotionally regulated, and somehow “have it all together.” Together, we unpack how societal expectations and messages from media can influence the way women with ADHD see themselves—and what can happen when we begin replacing self-criticism with understanding and compassion. Whether you have an ADHD diagnosis, have wondered if ADHD might explain some of your experiences, or simply want to better understand the women in your life, this conversation offers validation, insight, and a reminder that struggling doesn't mean you're failing. More about Molly Follow Molly on Instragram Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S3 · E70
    September 10 · 1 hr 4 min

    Episode 70: Period Pain & Your Pelvic Floor with Laura Holland

    Welcome back! We are on Season 3, and starting off our season with a conversation on Period Pain. Painful periods are often treated as something we simply have to live with—but how much pain is actually "normal"? In this episode of Outside the Therapy Room, I sits down with Laura, a pelvic floor specialist, to talk about the connection between period pain, pelvic floor health, and the mind-body connection. We explore what the pelvic floor actually does, how tension and chronic pain can affect it, when period pain may be a sign of something more, and how pelvic floor physiotherapy can help. Laura also shares insight into endometriosis and PCOS, what symptoms shouldn't be ignored, and practical ways to support your pelvic health. Whether you've experienced painful periods yourself, live with pelvic pain, or simply want to better understand your body, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to normalize pain or suffer in silence. More about Laura Follow Laura on Instagram Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E69
    May 21 · 1 hr

    Episode 69 - Summer Bodies, Body Image & Self-Worth with Amrit Babbra

    As summer approaches, so does the pressure to have the “perfect summer body.” In this season finale, we’re having an honest conversation about body image, diet culture, self-worth, and the emotional impact of constantly feeling like we need to change ourselves to be accepted. Joined by therapist Amrit, we explore why this time of year can feel especially triggering, how social media and comparison affect our mental health, and healthier ways to think about our bodies beyond appearance alone. We also talk about weight loss, confidence, body neutrality, and how to stop putting life on pause while waiting to feel “good enough.” This episode is a reminder that your worth is not measured by your size, and you deserve joy, connection, and self-compassion exactly as you are. Thank you for being part of season 2 — we’ll see you after the summer break for season 3. Follow NMC Book a Consult with Amrit Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

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  • S2 · E68
    May 14 · 55 min

    Episode 68 - Understanding Your Relationship Patterns with Jordan Hunsberger

    If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “why do I keep ending up in the same kind of relationship?”—this episode is for you. In this conversation, I sit down with Jordan, a couples psychotherapist, to unpack why these patterns happen in the first place. From attachment styles to nervous system familiarity, we explore how our past experiences shape who we’re drawn to—and why unhealthy dynamics can sometimes feel like “chemistry.” Most importantly, we talk about how to start breaking these cycles. What does it actually look like to choose differently? And how can you begin building something that actually feels secure and fulfilling? Follow NMC Book a Consult with Jordan Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E67
    May 7 · 31 min

    Episode 67 - The Small Signs You’re Actually Healing (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It) with Sarah

    Healing doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. In this episode, I sit down with Sarah to talk about the small, often overlooked signs that you’re actually healing—even if it doesn’t feel like it. Because growth isn’t always loud or obvious… sometimes it’s quiet, uncomfortable, and easy to dismiss. We explore the subtle shifts that signal real change—like pausing before reacting, setting boundaries (even when it feels hard), outgrowing old patterns, and learning to sit with emotions you used to avoid. Remember, just because it doesn’t feel like progress, doesn’t mean it isn’t. Follow NMC Book a Consult with Sarah Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E66
    April 30 · 1 hr 3 min

    Episode 66 - The Human Side of Your Therapist with Ashley Mariani

    In this episode, we’re having an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about the realities of this work — beyond what we were taught in grad school. From the pressure to be a “blank slate” to questioning old expectations like no self-disclosure or even having personal photos in your office, we explore how therapists have evolved over time and find their own voice in the room. Ashley and I also talk about the emotional weight of the work — thinking about clients outside of sessions, not always knowing how they’re doing, and navigating the complexity of caring deeply while maintaining boundaries. And for those in private practice, we get into the often-unspoken side of being both a therapist and a business owner — wearing multiple hats, managing a team, and holding the responsibility that comes with it. Follow Ashley (The Rogue Therapist) Ashley's Website Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E65
    April 23 · 55 min

    Episode 65: Triggers, Glimmers and Our Nervous System with Bethany Hanman

    Triggers are something many of us have heard about — moments when our nervous system reacts strongly to something in our environment. But what about the opposite of triggers? In this episode, we’re talking about glimmers — small, often overlooked moments that signal safety to our nervous system. Bethany returns to explore what actually happens in the body when we get triggered, why some experiences affect us more than others, and how learning to notice glimmers can help regulate our nervous system and bring more moments of calm into our daily lives. We discuss the connection between triggers and glimmers, why our brains are wired to notice threats more easily than safety, and simple ways to start identifying the small cues of safety that already exist around us. Follow NMC Book a Consult with Bethany Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E64
    April 16 · 1 hr

    Episode 64 - The Mental Health Power of Play with Claudia Gracias

    Play isn’t just something children do for fun — it’s actually a critical part of emotional development, communication, and mental health. In this episode, child therapist, Claudia joins and together we explore the power of play and why it matters at every stage of life. We break down the difference between play and play therapy, how child-led play supports emotional growth, and how therapists use play to help children express feelings they may not yet have words for. We also talk about the role play can have outside the therapy room — not just for kids, but for adults too — and how play can support stress relief, creativity, connection, and overall mental wellbeing. Follow New Moon Counselling Book a Free Consult Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E63
    April 9 · 1 hr 27 min

    Episode 63 - The Elder Daughter Effect with Aleta Wilson

    In many families, the eldest daughter quietly carries an invisible role — helper, mediator, caregiver, and emotional support system. Over time, this responsibility can shape identity, relationships, and mental health. Aleta is back to explore the “elder daughter phenomenon,” the pressure to be responsible and mature too early, and how these expectations can impact boundaries, burnout, and self-worth later in life. We discuss parentification, cultural expectations, and how elder daughters can begin to release the pressure of being “the strong one.” Follow Aleta! Aleta's Website Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E62
    April 2 · 59 min

    Episode 62 - When Desire Doesn’t Match: Sex, Shame, and Relationship Stress with Lindsay Kenna

    Sexual desire discrepancies are one of the most common — and least talked about — challenges in relationships. When one partner wants sex more often than the other, it can quickly become about much more than sex. Feelings of rejection, pressure, shame, resentment, and insecurity can start to take over. In this episode, we are joined by Sex Therapist, Lindsay Kenna to explore why differences in sexual desire happen and how they can impact both mental health and relationship dynamics. Together they unpack the emotional experiences of both the higher-desire and lower-desire partner, the myths couples often believe about sex, and why many people misunderstand how desire actually works. We also discuss practical ways couples can approach these conversations with more curiosity, compassion, and understanding. More About Lindsay Follow Bliss Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E61
    March 26 · 1 hr 5 min

    Episode 61 - Outgrowing Yourself: How Women Navigate Identity, Change, and Self-Discovery with Lacey Heels

    In this episode, I sit down with Lacey, a writer and guide in women’s self-discovery, to explore the powerful process of outgrowing old versions of ourselves. We discuss how to recognize the signs that it’s time for change, the challenges of stepping into a new identity, and practical tools for navigating transformation with compassion and intention. Whether you’re in an in-between season, feeling restless, or curious about your next chapter, this conversation offers insight, validation, and inspiration. Follow Lacey on Social Media Buy The Rebirth Rituals on Amazon Contact Lacey to buy her book and see Events she will be at! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E60
    March 12 · 1 hr 18 min

    Episode 60 - Parenting with ADHD: The Reality No One Talks About with Wendy Gage

    Motherhood comes with an invisible mental load — planning, regulating emotions, staying organized, and constantly responding to others’ needs. For mothers with ADHD, this load can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and deeply misunderstood. In this episode, we’re joined by therapist Wendy Gage, who specializes in supporting ADHD moms. We explore how ADHD shows up in motherhood, why many women are diagnosed after having children, and how ADHD can impact postpartum mental health, emotional regulation, and daily parenting. We talk about shame, burnout, strengths, and practical ways ADHD moms can find support and compassion for themselves. If you’ve ever wondered why parenting feels harder for you — you are not alone. About Wendy Girls & Women with ADHD (Resource) ADHD Mom's Collective Group Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • S2 · E59
    March 5 · 56 min

    Episode 59 - Infidelity Part 2: Recovery After Infidelity — Do I Stay or Do I Go? With Ashley Mariani

    Content note: This episode discusses infidelity and relational trauma. Please listen at your own pace. After infidelity, many people find themselves asking an impossible question: Do I stay, or do I go? In Part 2 of this series, Ashley is back and together we focus on what happens after betrayal — the emotional aftermath, the healing process, and how people begin to make decisions that honour their well-being. We talk about rebuilding trust, accountability, transparency, and what real repair looks like when couples choose to stay. We also explore what healing looks like when someone chooses to leave. This episode is for anyone navigating heartbreak, uncertainty, or pressure to “move on” before they’re ready. Follow Ashley (The Rogue Therapist) Ashley's Website Single Moms Group Therapy Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • S2 · E58
    February 26 · 1 hr 2 min

    Episode 58 - The Pelvic Floor & Mental Health: What Your Body Might Be Holding With Laura Holland

    The pelvic floor plays a critical role in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, stability, and core strength — but it also has a profound connection to our nervous system and emotional health. In this episode, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist, Laura Holland, joings us to talk about how chronic stress, trauma, anxiety, and shame can influence pelvic floor dysfunction — and how pelvic health concerns can, in turn, impact mental wellbeing. Together we discuss the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor, how fight-or flight aggects pelvic tension, why pelvic floor care is important for all genders and children, and practical ways to support regulation and pelvic health. Hypertonic vs. hypotonic pelvic floor patterns How fight-or-flight affects pelvic tension Trauma-informed considerations in pelvic care Why pelvic floor therapy is important for men, women, and all genders Practical ways to support regulation and pelvic health This is a powerful reminder that mental health is whole-body health. Follow Laura Laura's Website Laura does not treat men or children, but she recommended A Body in Motion Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • February 19 · 24 min

    Minisode - Why February Feels So Heavy (And What Your Body Needs)

    If you’ve been feeling more tired, unmotivated, or emotionally heavy lately — especially during the winter months — you’re not alone. In this solo episode, we explore why February can feel particularly difficult, especially in colder climates like Ontario, and how your body and nervous system naturally respond to reduced sunlight, colder temperatures, and seasonal changes. This episode offers compassionate psychoeducation on winter mood changes, including the science behind seasonal shifts in energy, motivation, and emotional well-being. You’ll learn why these experiences are common, how to reduce self-criticism, and gentle ways to support your mental health during this season. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • S2 · E57
    February 12 · 1 hr 4 min

    Episode 57: The Emotional Side of Trying to Conceive with Olivia Carvalho

    Infertility is often treated as a medical issue — but for those living it, the emotional and mental toll can be just as heavy. In this episode, we’re joined by Olivia, a fertility coach, to explore the emotional side of trying to conceive. Together, we talk about the stress, grief, self-blame, and isolation that can come with infertility, as well as how mindset, self-compassion, and supportive tools can help people feel more grounded through the journey. Olivia shares insight from her work supporting individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges, including how to cope with setbacks, manage triggers like pregnancy announcements and family gatherings, and stay connected to your body without falling into pressure or perfectionism. Whether you’re actively trying to conceive, supporting someone who is, or simply want a more honest conversation about fertility and mental health, this episode offers validation, practical tools, and gentle reminders that you’re not alone. Listener note: This episode discusses infertility and emotional challenges related to trying to conceive. Please take care while listening. Follow Olivia - The Menstral Coach Learn more about Olivia & her services Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • S2 · E56
    February 5 · 1 hr 3 min

    Episode 56: When “I’m Fine” Isn’t Fine - Men’s Mental Health with John Shearer

    Men are often taught to push through, stay strong, and keep their emotions to themselves—but that silence comes at a cost. In this episode, we’re joined by John Shearer, owner of Kickstart Men's Therapy, for an honest and compassionate conversation about men’s mental health. We explore why so many men struggle in silence, how stigma and traditional masculinity shape emotional expression, and how this impacts not only them but those around them. Together we talk about relationships, fatherhood, identity, and what actually helps when men decide to seek support. Whether you’re a man navigating your own mental health, love someone who is, or want to better understand the barriers men face when it comes to emotional well-being, this episode offers validation, perspective, and hope. Follow John Kickstart Men's Therapy - John's Practice Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • S2 · E55
    January 29 · 1 hr 5 min

    Episode 55: Infidelity Part 1 - Why do people cheat? with Ashley Mariani

    Content note: This episode discusses infidelity and relational betrayal. Please listen with care. Infidelity is one of the most painful and misunderstood experiences in relationships. Ashley Mariani joins us in this first part of our two-part series; we explore why people cheat — moving beyond blame, shame, and oversimplified narratives. Together, Ashley and I unpack what infidelity really means, the many forms it can take, and the deeper emotional, relational, and psychological factors that often sit underneath betrayal. We discuss attachment styles, unmet needs, secrecy, trauma, and why cheating can happen even in relationships that look “good” from the outside. This episode is not about justifying harm — it’s about understanding complexity, reducing stigma, and making sense of something that leaves many people feeling confused, hurt, and questioning everything. If you have any questions about infidelity that we can answer in our second part, please send them here. Follow Ashley (The Rogue Therapist) Ashley's Website Single Moms Group Therapy Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

  • S2 · E54
    January 22 · 51 min

    Episode 54 - When Friendships Feel Hard: Navigating Anxiety and Goodbyes with Bethany Hanman

    Friendships can bring joy, support, and meaning—but they can also create anxiety, doubt, and emotional stress. In this episode, Bethany joins us and helps us unpack friendship anxiety, why some friendships end, and how to navigate letting go with compassion and confidence. This episode is for anyone looking to understand their friendships better and approach them with self-awareness and care. Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us, to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you! Follow us on social media: @outisdethetherapyroompod If you're looking for a therapist and live in Ontario, feel free to visit our website here or contact us at hello@newmooncounselling.com to work with one of our team members. If you reside outside of Ontario, a quick Google search will help you find a therapist near you!

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