CBT, DBT & Renewing the Mind: Practical Tools for Perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome & Emotional Regulation w Dr. Lisa Napolitano

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) aren't just "therapist jargon"—they're evidence-based tools you can use today to renew your mind, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and live with more clarity and confidence.

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS talks with Dr. Lisa Napolitano—licensed psychologist, mindfulness teacher, and President of the Florida CBT Association—about reframing stigma in therapy, tackling perfectionism and imposter syndrome, and practicing self-validation.

This conversation offers practical tools you can use right now to reshape your thoughts, regulate your emotions, and create a life worth living.

Quotes from the Episode

• Diana: "Because when we challenge our thoughts, we transform our behaviors, and in turn, our lives."

• Diana: "Do not forget to trust in the Lord, guard your heart. And renew your mind."

• Dr. Napolitano: "The most powerful way… to change your behavior is positive reinforcement, not beating yourself up, not chastising yourself."

• Dr. Napolitano: "To effectively treat suicidality, we've got to get people invested in life. Help them build what she calls the life worth living, a life that reflects your values."

Key Topics Covered

• The Two-Column Technique for overcoming imposter syndrome and confirmation bias

• Common cognitive distortions like mind-reading, "should" statements, and personalization

• How perfectionism feeds analysis paralysis—and the Continuum Technique to break free

• DBT skills: mindfulness, self-validation, and building a life aligned with your values

• Why exercise and mindfulness are first-line supports for anxiety and depression

Resources Mentioned

• Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns, MD → Amazon link

• Never Good Enough: How to Use Perfectionism to Your Advantage Without Letting It Ruin Your Life by Monica Ramirez Basco → Amazon link

• The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook by Matthew McKay, Jeffrey Wood, Jeffrey Brantley → Amazon link

• Free CBT Thought Record Worksheet (Beck Institute) → Download PDF

• List of Cognitive Distortions (Therapist Aid) → View Here

• Meditation App — Insight Timer (free)

• Fitness/Mood Tracking — Strava

Connect with Dr. Lisa Napolitano

• Website: drlisanapolitano.com

• Instagram: @drlisasays

• CBT/DBT Associates: cbtdbtassociates.com

• Florida CBT Association: floridacbt.org

Connect with Diana

• Therapy (Florida residents): Through the Valley Therapy

• Consulting & Events: Transformed Mind Consulting & Coaching

• Podcast Playlist (YouTube): The Holistic Counselor Podcast

If this episode encouraged you, please rate and review on Apple Podcasts so others can find faith-aligned, evidence-based support. And don't forget to share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today.