Podcast with Will Cole, Mental Health Counselor at Crawford Clinics In a world sending mixed messages about masculinity, parents are facing a new challenge: How do we raise boys who grow into strong, emotionally grounded, spiritually anchored men? In this powerful episode, Will Cole, mental health counselor at Crawford Clinics specializing in healthy masculinity, breaks down the essential ingredients boys need to develop into men of courage, compassion, confidence, and character. Drawing from biblical wisdom, clinical insight, and years of counseling boys, teens, and men, Will shares: What boys need emotionally from mom and dad at each stage of development How to nurture a boy’s sensitivity without weakening his masculine strength The role of fathers (and father figures) in shaping identity, security, and calling How to help boys process emotions in healthy ways instead of shutting down Why discipline + connection creates the safest foundation for masculine maturity How to build resilience, grit, and godly confidence in a generation facing anxiety and confusion The spiritual formation boys need to hear God’s voice and walk in purpose Will also covers the dangers of shame-based parenting, overprotection, and cultural stereotypes that wound a boy’s sense of self—and shows parents how to replace them with affirmation, boundaries, strength, and grace. Whether you’re raising sons, mentoring young men, leading youth, or simply wanting to understand masculinity through a healthier lens, this episode is a hope-filled guide to helping boys become the men God designed them to be: steady, secure, wholehearted, and unshakeably rooted in identity and purpose.   masculinity, purpose, identity, Christian men, mental health, emotional healing, inner healing, faith-based counseling. Christian masculinity faith and mental health biblical manhood identity in Christ men’s mental health masculine strength restoring masculinity emotional health for men godly leadership faith-based counseling father wounds men and anxiety inner healing Christian psychology

The baby is finally here. Everyone says this should be the happiest time of your life…But instead, you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and maybe even ashamed to admit: something’s off. In this raw and hope-filled episode of Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford, licensed psychologist Dr. Grace Spencer—one of Crawford Clinics’ trusted providers—speaks candidly about the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum depression. With deep compassion and clinical insight, Dr. Grace helps new moms and couples understand what’s really going on beneath the surface when the joy of a new baby is met with exhaustion, sadness, irritability, or even resentment. You’ll learn how the hormonal crash, sleep deprivation, identity shifts, and mounting relational stress can all serve as powerful triggers—not only for postpartum depression, but for old wounds that may resurface in unexpected ways. Dr. Grace shares practical strategies for nurturing emotional well-being, safeguarding your relationship, and making room for grace (not guilt) in this tender season. Whether you’re a new mom, a supportive partner, or someone walking with a couple in this season—this episode is an invitation to heal, reconnect, and grow together as you welcome new life. 💬 For a free consult with Dr. Grace Spencer: CrawfordClinics.com/contact🎧 Listen now on Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford—available on all major podcast platforms.   Subscribe to Unlock U YouTube channel to watch previous episodes with Dr. Grace:   https://youtu.be/ZAKfOheghPY?si=aBYJLtqFkXyxF5C4   And if you're looking for community to help you navigate infertility and miscarriage https://www.momsinthemaking.com/ 

He throws tantrums over small things.She clings, cries, or shuts down unexpectedly.You’ve tried rewards, consequences, charts—but something still doesn’t sit right. What if your child’s “behavior issues” aren’t about disobedience at all—but grief? In this heart-opening episode of Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford, we welcome Abby Thomas, a trusted mental health provider at Crawford Clinics who specializes in working with children ages 3–11, including those who are neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD). With her deep warmth and Christ-centered compassion, Abby helps parents look beneath the surface of behavior to what their child is really trying to say. Abby reveals how unprocessed grief—whether from divorce, moves, sensory overload, or changes at school—can be silently shaping your child’s emotional world. Rather than defaulting to behavior correction, this episode offers a powerful new way to connect with your child’s heart: by teaching them how to grieve well. If your child has big emotions, challenging behaviors, or struggles to express what they’re feeling—this episode will equip and encourage you to slow down, tune in, and begin healing… together. 💬 For a free consult with Abby: CrawfordClinics.com/contact🎧 Listen now on Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford—wherever you get your podcasts.   For more content on parenting, subscribe to the Unlock U YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/dNjW2S_VuWE?si=8IKuhdz4eiAxWwIS 

She was bubbly and confident in elementary school—always quick to smile, dance in the kitchen, and ask you to tuck her in. But lately… you’ve noticed a shift. She’s quieter. Withdrawn. Glued to her phone. The sparkle in her eyes seems dimmer. And the conversations? They’ve turned into one-word answers and long silences. You wonder: Is she okay? Am I losing her? In this deeply relatable episode of Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford, meet Gracie Showers, one of Crawford Clinics’ gifted mental health providers who specializes in walking with 12–16-year-old girls as they navigate the pressures of middle and high school. With compassion, clinical skill, and a Christ-centered perspective, Gracie partners with families to raise emotionally resilient, relationally wise, and spiritually anchored daughters—girls who know their worth, set healthy boundaries, and live with intention in a culture pulling them in all the wrong directions. If you’ve ever worried your daughter is losing her way—or that the world might get to shape her more than God’s design—this episode is your invitation to hope, help, and healing. 💬 For a free consult with Gracie: CrawfordClinics.com/contact🎧 Listen now on Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford—available wherever you get your podcasts.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel to Unlock U https://youtu.be/lXRVmCIMcUo?si=SKy_lh3QSaN19T78 

You were told your 20s are supposed to be “the best years of your life”... so why do they feel so overwhelming, disappointing, and filled with pressure to perform? In this episode of Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford, meet Claire Gaither, Crawford Clinics’ “Gen Z counselor,” who gets what it’s like to scroll through highlight reels, hustle for approval, and wonder if you’re falling behind while trying so hard to get it right. Claire opens up with the raw story of a young woman who tried to check all the boxes—perfect internship, gym routine, social life—but still felt anxious, exhausted, and unsure of who she really was. Sound familiar? If you're an emerging adult trying to be somebody, Claire shares how to slow down, listen inward, and build a life that’s not about comparison—but about calling. Learn practical tools to stop performing, start aligning with your true self, and actually enjoy the messy, meaningful journey of becoming. 💬 For a free consult with Claire, visit CrawfordClinics.com/contact   And watch her prior episode on Dating, Situationship, & Actually Finding "The One" https://youtu.be/lXRVmCIMcUo?si=DKFZkRalsmemBASa 

Pregnancy isn’t just about growing a baby—it’s about becoming someone new. In this tender and truth-filled episode of Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford, licensed psychologist Dr. Grace Spencer invites you into the sacred, messy, and miraculous journey of pregnancy and early motherhood. With gentle wisdom and clinical insight, Dr. Grace helps you make sense of what’s happening in your body, your hormones, your heart, and your relationship—so you can show up with grace and compassion for yourself and your partner. From emotional waves and identity shifts to the quiet aches we don’t always say out loud, this conversation is a soft place to land and a strong place to rise from. You are not alone. You are not failing. You are becoming. 👉 To connect with Dr. Grace for a free consultation, visit CrawfordClinics.com/contact.   💛 If you’re walking through infertility or pregnancy loss, we encourage you to revisit our first conversation with Dr. Grace on navigating grief and hope through those sacred struggles. https://youtu.be/ZAKfOheghPY?si=QjVsyJbSgVHohvZB   

“I walked past their empty bedroom and felt a lump rise in my throat. The silence was deafening. For the first time in years, no backpacks by the door, no late-night check-ins… just me, a quiet house, and a haunting question: Who am I now?” If you’ve ever stood in that doorway—caught between pride and grief—this episode is for you. In Part 2 of our heartfelt conversation, Dr. Shannan Crawford sits down again with Crawford Clinics' beloved therapist Kristen Gatlin to explore the emotional journey of launching kids into adulthood and rediscovering your own identity along the way. Together, they unpack how to: Find your purpose beyond parenting Let go of control without losing connection Transform your role from caretaker to trusted friend Create new rhythms of closeness with your adult children You are not alone in this transition—and this episode offers the hope, laughter, and practical tools you need to thrive in this beautiful new chapter. 🎧 watch now on Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford—available on YouTube. Want to discover your purpose and explore the next season of your life as a parent?  Schedule a free consult with Kristen at www.CrawfordClinics.com/Contact

Still Your Kid—Now Your Friend: Navigating the Shift from Parenting to Partnership. Learning to Laugh through the Launch! What happens when your child grows up—but your relationship doesn’t? In this heartwarming and insightful episode, Kristen Gatlin, one of Crawford Clinics' beloved therapists joins Dr. Shannan Crawford to unpack the emotional shift that occurs when parenting moves from authority to camaraderie. Together, they explore how to foster deep connection, mutual respect, and yes—humor—as your child steps into adulthood. Whether your son or daughter is in college, newly independent, or still navigating young adulthood, this conversation will equip you with tools to release control without losing closeness, invite authenticity without overstepping, and laugh your way through the awkward transitions. Discover how to stay emotionally available, spiritually anchored, and relationally wise as you grow alongside your grown kids. For help navigating your child's season of launching, text "Kristen" for a free parenting consult to 817-601-5540.  And if you're experiencing "Empty Nest" Kristen would love to help you explore your next chapter in the great adventure of YOUR life!  CrawfordClinics.com 

Struggling with infertility can feel like an invisible grief—isolating, overwhelming, and filled with unanswered questions. In this powerful episode, Dr. Shannan Crawford sits down with renowned Clinical Psychologist and motherhood and fertility expert Dr. Grace Spencer to offer clarity, hope, and breakthrough insight for couples walking through the painful and often misunderstood journey of infertility. Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Grace Spencer, is the premier psychologist offering hope and resilience for moms navigating hope deferred. Contact Dr. Grace for a free phone consult by texting "Dr. Grace" to 817-601-5540 and obtain a free consult for integrative medical consult by texting "Dr. Lipper"  Whether you're just starting to ask, Why can’t we get pregnant? or you've been navigating IVF, hormone therapy, or recurrent loss, this conversation is for you. Dr. Spencer unpacks the emotional, physical, and spiritual toll infertility takes on individuals and marriages—and how to rise stronger on the other side. You’ll discover new advancements in resilience, reproductive medicine, holistic approaches to healing, and the redemptive perspective that brings peace in the wait. Key Takeaways: The most common causes of infertility in women and men How stress, trauma, and emotional health impact fertility New breakthroughs in fertility treatments and natural options How to support your partner and protect your relationship Encouragement and faith-based hope for the journey This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing infertility, those who support them, or leaders wanting to better understand how to minister to hurting hearts in the waiting. Our Journey is your journey - we are in it together! this podcast is sponsored by the non profit  WE FLOURISH TOGETHER! Infertility podcast, infertility help, infertility and faith, IVF journey, fertility doctor interview, reproductive health, hope during infertility, Christian perspective on infertility, infertility and trauma, Dr. Grace Spencer, Shannan Crawford podcast

In this revealing episode of Unlock U with Dr. Shannan Crawford, we dive deep into the often‐hidden dynamics of narcissistic grooming—from a psychoanalytic lens—and uncover how early relationship templates can leave us especially vulnerable. You’ll learn how to spot the red flags, understand the unconscious roots, and put practical safeguards in place. What Is Narcissistic Grooming? Definition: A gradual process by which someone with narcissistic traits gains your trust, isolates you, and then exploits your emotions and boundaries for their own validation and control. Often including intense amounts of verbal praise "Idealizing you", in which they give you signifiant amounts of attention, time, gifts, acts of service, and praise that, many people have described as, "intoxicating." Some have described that "it almost felt like he adored me so much and so suddenly that it was overwhelming. It was so flattering that I ignored all red flags because the life he described we would have was exhilarating! He sent huge flower arrangements and flashy expensive gifts to me at work so my coworkers could see it. He messaged me multiple times a day with the most amazing complements and telling me everything I always wanted to hear. He came into my life, so strong and so fast... he literally came out of nowhere and now, boom, this amazing man is telling me he wants to marry me and take me around the world and I would never need to work again because he wants to spoil me! I was so enraptured that I didn't notice that his current life didn't match up to the fantasies he was creating in my mind of how our life would be..." Another woman says, "He convinced me that he loved me so much that he couldn't be without me... I didn't notice that he was starting to isolate me... I had to give up friends and family who did not fully "support" our relationship. I was so overwhelmed by the intensity of his attention and praise, that I started to subtly build my life around him... eventually I lost my other relationships... By the time he discarded me, I was COMPLETELY alone."  Can you resonate?  Psychoanalytic Perspective: Splitting & Idealization/Devaluation: Narcissists first “idealize” you as perfect, then “devalue” you once they feel threatened. Projective Identification: They project their own unacceptable feelings onto you, making you feel responsible for their emotions. Object Relations Roots: Early caregivers who were inconsistent or overly enmeshed can leave you craving approval and slow to see manipulation. Why Some of Us Are More Susceptible Drawing on the Restoring‑Self‑Cohesion (RSC) model, Dr. Crawford explains how unconscious templates from childhood shape our adult relationships: Caretaker Role: You learned to put others’ emotional needs first to feel safe or worthy. People‑Pleaser Template: Seeking external validation became your primary way to soothe childhood anxieties. Rescuer Script: You believe “fixing” others proves your value—making you an easy target for someone who preys on empathy. Unconscious Sabotage Loops: Old patterns pull you back into dynamics where your boundaries blur and your self‑worth hinges on pleasing someone else. Practical Safeguards to Protect Yourself Strengthen Your Boundaries Practice saying “no” and notice your discomfort. Use “I” statements to express needs: “I feel… when you…” Build an Early‑Warning System Keep a journal of interactions that feel off—look for patterns of praise turning into blame. Share concerns with a trusted friend or therapist to get an outside perspective. Cultivate Healthy “Mirror” Relationships Surround yourself with people who reflect empathy, consistency, and genuine care. Schedule regular check‑ins with your support circle. Deepen Self‑Awareness with RSC Tools Identify your primary relationship template and notice when you slip into old roles. Use grounding rituals (breathwork, journaling, somatic check‑ins) to

How, understanding the past, can unlock your future! Relationships are built. Build a secure relationship through resolving unconscious mother wounds. By healing your attachment style, you’re resolving the past to make room for the future!

If you're a parent feeling overwhelmed by ADHD symptoms — whether in your child or even in yourself — this episode will give you real hope and practical strategies. In today's conversation, Dr. Shannan Crawford sits down with Dr. Kelly Cagle, a researcher, educator, and ADHD coach who specializes in equipping moms and families with science-backed tools to navigate ADHD with confidence. Together, they unpack what’s really going on beneath the surface of ADHD symptoms — from brain function to emotional regulation — and explore how an integrative medical approach can make all the difference. At Crawford Clinics, we offer holistic counseling, coaching, and personalized integrative treatment plans to address the underlying brain and body issues that may be contributing to ADHD symptoms — helping you or your loved one thrive, not just survive. ✨ Learn more about Dr. Kelly Cagle's podcast, courses, and coaching:👉 https://dot.cards/drkellycagle?s=qrs&e=cXItMzRtdk53RHIxSQ If you’re ready for support, we invite you to reach out to Crawford Clinics for personalized ADHD counseling, coaching, and integrative brain health care. 🌟 Schedule your consultation today at CrawfordClinics.com or simply text "ADHD" to 817-601-5540

When you've tried everything to feel better — but the symptoms keep coming back — it's not a willpower problem. It’s a sign your unconscious mind needs a deeper upgrade. In a world crowded with self-proclaimed experts, Clinical Psychologist Dr. Shannan Crawford stands apart. As the creator of the Restoring-Self-Cohesion™ approach, she helps you uncover the hidden root causes behind emotional and mental roadblocks — bringing clarity, breakthrough, and lasting change. If you're ready to upgrade your thoughts, relationships, and life — and step into the confident, world-changer version of yourself you know is in there — you're in the right place. Learn more about our proven, results-driven process at CrawfordClinics.com — because real transformation starts from the inside out.

Life's too short to live without purpose. Join us as Dr. Crawford illuminates the keys to unlocking your internal world - remove internal glass ceilings - so you can connect with your true purpose and live a life of impact! You are here for a purpose! We believe in you! The Restoring-Self-Cohesion approach is here to help you get activated! 

Have you ever wondered if your leadership style is too passive, too aggressive, or truly confident? In this episode, Coach Stephanie Kelsey—aka the “Velvet Hammer”—joins me to explore what it means to lead with authentic confidence. Stephanie shares her experiences leading large teams in corporate and volunteer spaces, showing how to balance strength with approachability while inspiring collaboration. We dive into the downsides of aggressive leadership (stifling innovation, shutting down feedback) and passive leadership (avoiding conflict, weak boundaries). You’ll leave with tools to foster trust, creativity, and connection wherever you lead. 🎉 Plus, I’m so excited to announce our brand-new Crawford Clinics location! Stop by during our Open House at:📍 Southlake Blvd, Suite 110, Southlake, TX 76092🗓️ Saturday, February 1, 2025⏰ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Come say hi, tour the space, and dream with us about how we can serve you better. Let’s dream big, push through the hard stuff, and live intentionally together!

Guys, I cannot wait to catch up with you! This podcast feels like sitting down together for coffee and just chatting about life, dreams, and all the things happening with Crawford Clinics and my world. Let’s be real—life can feel like it’s full of waiting. Waiting for a relationship, a degree, a promotion, or even that next vacation. I get it because I’m a dreamer too. Like, binder-full-of-dreams kind of dreamer (and yes, it has tabs!). But here’s the thing: dreaming is the easy part. The waiting? The pruning? The maturing? Oh man, that’s where the growth really happens. In this episode, I’m opening up about how those seasons of waiting can shape you—and how you can adopt a “growth mindset” that says, I can do that. It’s a mindset passed down from my family, starting with my grandpa, who faced so many obstacles but always believed in pushing past limitations. I’ll also share a fun update about our brand-new Crawford Clinics location in Southlake, Texas! If you’re in the area, come to our Open House on February 1st from 2–4 PM. We’d love to meet you, show you around, and hear your ideas on how we can serve you better. Let’s dream big, push through the hard stuff, and live intentionally together. Love you, friends!

Hey friends! If you missed the last episode, I recommend checking it out first—it sets the stage for this one. We’re diving into the sneaky lies shame plants in our lives—like "I’m too much" or "I’ll be rejected if people really see me." These beliefs often show up in perfectionism, people-pleasing, or even burnout. Take Andrew, for example (name changed). He seemed happy and successful, but beneath it all, unresolved shame and unmet needs were creating resentment, anxiety, and disconnection. Sound familiar? Here’s the good news: you’re not stuck! By rejecting shame and embracing radical self-acceptance, you can realign your inner world and reconnect with your true self. When your spirit leads, creativity, peace, and purpose follow. Let’s explore how to unearth the parts of us we’ve hidden, invite healing, and live with freedom. Curious? Watch now! 💡

Hey friends, In this Unlock U episode, we’re diving into the foundation of who we are—our very first core belief. Life gets messy, doesn’t it? Between the ups and downs of parenting, work, mindset struggles, and just trying to keep it all together, it can feel like chaos. But when we step back and see the bigger picture—God’s story unfolding in and through us—suddenly, it all starts to make sense. You’re not just a collection of thoughts, emotions, and to-do lists. You’re a spirit being, uniquely designed in God’s image. When you’re in alignment—body under soul, soul under spirit, and spirit under the Holy Spirit—you can experience peace, clarity, and freedom. But let’s be honest: misalignment? That feels like a pinched nerve messing with everything. We’ll unpack how even old, sneaky beliefs planted when we were little can hold us back and how to realign with who God says you are. You’re made for awe and wonder, and it’s time to live fully in that truth! If this speaks to your heart, don’t go it alone. At Crawford Clinics, we’re here to walk with you, helping you heal, grow, and live whole. Visit us at Crawford Clinics—we’d love to support you on your journey! 💛

The new year feels like the perfect time to hit reset and finally break free from those frustrating patterns we all struggle with—whether it’s relationships, work, or even how we view ourselves. In Episode 170 of Unlock U, we’re peeling back the layers to understand why these cycles happen and how you can create real change, starting from the inside out. We’ll talk about how your life experiences shape hidden beliefs and emotions that can keep you stuck, even when you’re trying so hard to move forward. I’ll guide you through practical ways to uncover those patterns, gently connect with the parts of yourself holding onto pain, and step into healing with kindness and curiosity. This isn’t about quick fixes or surface-level solutions—it’s about creating lasting peace within. Imagine stepping into this year feeling lighter, clearer, and truly aligned with the best version of yourself. Let’s make that happen together. Ready to begin? Head to CrawfordClinics.com to learn more.

This week on Unlock U, we’re diving into a tender yet transformative conversation with Tina Dean, co-founder of Legacy Adoption Agency. Together, we explore the quiet pain so many carry—miscarriage, abortion, adoption, or the unspoken grief of letting go. Tina beautifully reframes what it means to place a child for adoption—not as “giving up,” but as an act of love and selflessness. For birth moms, it’s a decision often made in the shadows of shame, but one that reflects incredible courage and sacrifice. If you’ve ever made a choice like this or felt the weight of untold stories, you are seen, you are loved, and you are not alone. This conversation is for you. It’s a safe space to let light and healing in. 💛 ✨ Tune in for stories of hope, redemption, and the strength it takes to release with love. At CrawfordClinics.com, we’re here for you, always.