In this enlightening episode of "Shit That Goes On Our Heads," hosts G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Paige, a former psychiatric nurse turned clinical counselor. Paige shares her journey from psychiatric nursing to becoming a mental health advocate and counselor. This episode explores mental health, self-care, and the power of sharing personal stories to help others feel less alone.

**Find More Information About Paige Here:**
Website: http://www.theoptimisticspeaker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theoptimisticspeaker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anotherchapter/

**Connect with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles:**

**Discover, Engage & Enjoy:**
Official Website: Learn more at Goes On In Our Heads
Social Media: Stay updated and engage with us on Facebook and Instagram

**Participate & Support:**
Newsletter: Join us for exciting content, exclusive giveaways, and regular updates here
Merchandise: Support us and flaunt our unique merchandise from Customized Girl
Donate: If you love our content, consider supporting us here

**Engagement & Advertising Opportunities:**
Advertise: Reach our engaged community by promoting your products here

Acknowledgments: Audio editing by NJz Audio for top-notch sound quality.

**Key Themes:**
1. Mental Health Journey: Paige discusses her transition from a psychiatric nurse to a clinical counselor and her challenges in the healthcare system.
2. Self-Care and Compassion: Self-care and acknowledging humanness are cornerstones of mental well-being.
3. Therapy and Support Systems: The significance of finding the right therapist and the impact of different therapeutic approaches, such as EMDR and exposure therapy.
4. Workplace Mental Health: The need for better mental health support in high-stress professions and the role of companies in providing mental health resources.

**Memorable Quotes:**
- "If you don't know that you're allowed to feel better if you don't know that you're allowed to take care of yourself, there is a whole heck of a lot of shame and guilt that comes with taking care of yourself."
- "Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is give voice to your struggles. Sharing your story might be the key that unlocks someone's prison."
- "Learn about self-compassion. If we can't acknowledge our humanness and that we are human beings and are not going to be perfect, then we're never going to feel a sense of satisfaction."

**Actionable Takeaways:**
1. Explore Self-Compassion: Visit selfcompassion.org and learn about Dr. Kristin Neff's work on self-compassion to better understand and integrate it into your daily life.
2. Seek the Right Therapy: Don't be afraid to 'speed date' therapists to find the right fit for your needs and personality. The proper support can make a significant difference.
3. Acknowledge Your Emotions: Understand that feeling a wide range of emotions is okay and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
4. Support Systems Matter: If you're in a high-stress profession, ensure you have a robust support system and are aware of the mental h