In Part 2 of his conversation with Melissa Carey, behavioral health therapist Jim Ellermeyer explores these questions and more on Fishing Without Bait.

Melissa begins by discussing her introduction to Reiki and other energy-based practices, tracing her interests back to her education in music therapy and the mentors who helped shape her path. She explains her approach to Reiki, the importance of personal intention, and why she does not promise specific outcomes from a session.

The conversation takes a deeply personal turn when Melissa discusses raising four children, including the additional demands that can come with special needs. She speaks openly about loving her children while struggling with the responsibilities and expectations of motherhood.

For Melissa, an important turning point came when she realized she was allowing parenting books, family members, teachers, and society to determine how she should raise her children. By deciding to trust her own choices, she began to experience motherhood differently.

Jim and Melissa also examine the expectations placed on women, the importance of self-concept and self-esteem, and the challenge of recognizing what we deserve in relationships.

Jim asks a powerful question: What are the requirements someone must meet to be with you?

Melissa adds an important perspective: How can someone recognize respect, autonomy, or healthy relationships if they've never experienced them?

This episode invites listeners to consider how mindfulness, honesty, self-trust, and personal responsibility can help us build a life that reflects our own values.

Connect with Melissa Carey

Explore Melissa's work at Into the Spirit Healing:
https://intothespirithealing.life

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Continue your mindfulness journey with Jim's book, Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book:
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

Learn more about the podcast:
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Emily describes how she sensed something was wrong with her healthy two-year-old daughter weeks before doctors confirmed it. Despite multiple visits and reassurances that it was “just a virus,” her body told her otherwise. The anxiety built until one terrifying afternoon when her daughter collapsed in her arms.

From calling 911, to the helicopter ride to Children’s Hospital, to hearing the words “open heart surgery,” Emily walks us through the moment-by-moment unfolding of crisis. She reflects on fear, being unheard, trust in medical professionals, and the power of intuition.

This is Part 1 of a deeply moving story about resilience, advocacy, recovery, and the spiritual strength that carried her through.

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you don’t miss Part 2.
Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait
Pick up Jim’s book: Learn to Fish Without Bait https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4