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Navigating Tough Times: Insights from Ruth Triones Quesada

In a recent Med Circle session, host Kyle Kson had the privilege of interviewing licensed clinical social worker and therapist Ruth Triones Quesada. The conversation revolved around not just surviving challenging times but also thriving during them. Ruth shared invaluable insights that can help individuals cultivate resilience and strength in the face of adversity.

The Legacy of Dr. Jean Maria Oro

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Before delving into Ruth's insights on resilience, Kson highlighted a poignant article from the Washington Post regarding the recent passing of Dr. Jean Maria Oro, a prominent social psychologist. Dr. Oro was recognized for her courageous whistleblowing concerning the American Psychological Association's (APA) involvement in unethical practices related to national security interrogations.

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Her work revolved around exposing the ethical compromises and human rights violations that arose in the pursuit of national security post-9/11. Despite the initial resistance, her efforts led to significant reforms within the APA, including a ban on psychologists participating in national security interrogations. Dr. Oro's legacy remains one of moral courage and advocacy for ethical standards in psychology.

Introducing Ruth Triones Quesada

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Ruth Triones Quesada shared her background and motivation for entering the mental health field. Growing up in a family culturally inclined towards helping others, she found her path in mental health almost as a birthright. Ruth has worked with diverse groups, including military personnel, veterans, and families of premature babies in her telehealth practice.

However, she wasn't shy to discuss the challenges of her work, particularly the initial struggle to build a connection with clients.

Building Connections in Therapy

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One of the most significant challenges Ruth faces is establishing trust with her clients. She noted that while clients may come in with emotional pain, they are often looking for ways to move forward rather than rehashing the past. To connect better with her clients, Ruth adopted a method focused on identifying their strengths first rather than delving immediately into their issues.

This shift in perspective allows clients to recognize their accomplishments and cultivate a sense of positivity while navigating their struggles. Ruth emphasized the importance of identifying small successes that clients may overlook during their toughest moments.

Three Key Lessons for Resilience

During the session, Ruth outlined three critical life lessons that can help anyone deal with difficult times:

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  1. Be Kind to Yourself: The first lesson is about the importance of self-talk. Ruth encourages people to treat themselves with the same kindness they would extend to a friend. Negative self-talk can be incredibly damaging. By cultivating self-compassion, individuals can create a healthier mindset.

  2. Embrace Tomorrow: Ruth's second lesson is a powerful reminder that "tomorrow is around the corner." In times of struggle, it can be easy to feel trapped in the present moment. However, acknowledging that difficulties are often temporary can provide hope—the belief that one can emerge stronger from their experience.

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  1. Post-Traumatic Growth: The final lesson addresses the notion of growth after trauma. Ruth pointed out that many individuals who experience hardship can find ways to grow and learn from their circumstances. Acknowledging the trauma doesn't negate the ability to grow; rather, it can provide a pathway to becoming a more resilient person.

The Role of Community and Resources

Ruth expressed her appreciation for the Med Circle community and the resources it provides. She highlighted the wisdom of Dr. Romany, a well-respected expert on various psychological issues, as an invaluable asset for her practice. Ruth frequently shares Dr. Romany's insights with clients to help illuminate complex subjects simply and accessibly.

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Access to experts through Med Circle allows both professionals and clients to benefit from a diverse range of viewpoints and methodologies. By sharing resources, therapy can become a collaborative process, enriching the client's experience with additional support and guidance.

Conclusion: The Support System

The conversation wrapped up with Ruth’s encouragement for those who might be struggling, emphasizing the universality of life's challenges. Everyone has a unique experience, yet it is the shared nature of struggles that can fortify community bonds.

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With the right approach, individuals can navigate through tough times, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. Resources like Med Circle offer not just information, but a sense of belonging and hope for those on their mental health journeys.

Ultimately, Ruth's insights underscore the importance of kindness, perspective, and community in overcoming life’s unexpected challenges.