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Element Q Podcast

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Element Q Podcast

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Element Q Podcast: Empowering LGBTQIA+ Voices

Hosted by TJ Woodward, revolutionary recovery expert and creator of The Conscious Recovery Method, this inspiring podcast explores healing, transformation, and the power of authentic identity.

Each week, join TJ Woodward as he interviews authors, thought leaders, therapists, coaches, and healers dedicated to empowering and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The Element Q Podcast opens doors to healing, connection, and renewal through conversations that honor our shared history while embracing the strength and power within each of us.

Those who came before us—the courageous, the resilient, the ones who fought tirelessly for the rights and recognition the LGBTQ+ community holds today—laid the foundation upon which we stand. Inspired by their courage and fueled by a vision of gentleness, healing, and transformation, Element Q Healing Center brings you stories that matter.

Empowering LGBTQ+ Voices, One Story at a Time

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Element Q Podcast

Featured Episode

In Season 2, Episode 18, TJ Woodward sits down with Dr. Olivia Ratcliff-Totty—clinician, adjunct professor, and primary therapist here at Element Q—for a deeply honest conversation about chosen family, identity, and what it truly means to create safety for the people we serve.

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About Your Host

TJ Woodward is a revolutionary recovery expert, bestselling author, and addiction treatment specialist who has helped countless individuals through his simple yet powerful teachings.

As the creator of The Conscious Recovery Method and a specialist in helping the LGBTQ+ community heal from unresolved trauma, spiritual disconnection, and shame, TJ brings depth and compassion to every conversation.

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About Element Q Healing Center

Our mission is to serve each person’s journey by creating space for growth, connection, and renewal. Through identity, gender, and culturally affirming practices and trauma-focused care, we empower LGBTQIA+ community members to not only discover their voice but to embrace the strength and power within it.

Element Q Healing Center offers comprehensive mental health services including Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) specifically designed for the LGBTQIA+ community in San Diego and beyond.

Learn More About Us

Element Q YouTube Feed

In Season 3, Episode 4 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with Bryce Beliveau—Admissions and Outreach Coordinator at No Matter What Recovery and a proud graduate of the program—to explore the raw truth of addiction, identity, and healing within the LGBTQIA+ community. Bryce shares his powerful journey from growing up as a gay child in a small Midwestern town—feeling isolated, ashamed, and “othered”—to finding belonging through musical theater, and ultimately spiraling into addiction. With striking honesty, he opens up about how substances like alcohol and meth temporarily silenced the inner voices of shame, only to lead him into a rapid downward spiral. What follows is a story of resilience, recovery, and transformation. Bryce reveals how finding an LGBTQIA+-affirming treatment space changed everything—allowing him to feel seen, safe, and supported for the first time. Today, he dedicates his life to helping others take that same first step toward healing. This episode dives into: The impact of toxic shame and spiritual disconnection Why LGBTQIA+-affirming care matters in recovery The power of community, stillness, and self-acceptance How asking for help can change—and save—your life 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:12 – Growing Up “Different” in a Small Town 05:53 – First Drink, First Escape 06:56 – The Rapid Descent into Meth Addiction 09:15 – The Turning Point: Affirming Treatment 12:53 – Learning to Sit Still and Heal 17:48 – The Most Important Advice: Ask for Help
From Addiction to Purpose: Bryce Beliveau’s LGBTQ Recovery Story
In Season 3, Episode 5 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Jessica Hamilton for an honest and compassionate conversation about LGBTQ+ mental health, addiction recovery, adolescent identity development, and the healing power of human connection. Drawing from her own recovery journey and decades of experience working with marginalized communities, Dr. Hamilton shares deeply personal stories about supporting transgender youth, working with long-term HIV/AIDS survivors in San Francisco, advocating for LGBTQ+ youth in juvenile justice systems, and helping families navigate identity, acceptance, and healing with compassion. Together, TJ and Dr. Hamilton explore the emotional impact of shame, societal stigma, political polarization, social media algorithms, and the importance of repairing relationships through empathy and understanding. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that healing happens through connection, curiosity, and love — even in deeply divided times. If you’re passionate about mental health, recovery, LGBTQ+ advocacy, trauma-informed care, or creating safer spaces for authentic identity, this conversation will leave you inspired and empowered. 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Dr. Jessica Hamilton: https://drbyrdolmstead.com #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:29 – Recovery Journey & LGBTQ+ Connection 07:52 – Supporting LGBTQ+ 09:57 – Growing Up Gay in the 70s & 80s 12:17 – The Reality of Working with Transgender Youth 21:40 – Social Media, Algorithms & Polarization 30:32 – Why Love & Compassion Are the Real Solution
LGBTQ+ Mental Health, Recovery & Compassion Dr Jessica Hamilton on Healing & Identity
In Season 3, Episode 3 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with Davina Kotulski—a licensed therapist, author, and internationally recognized LGBTQ+ advocate—to explore how we can cultivate inner resilience, healing, and authenticity in a deeply divided world. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, Davina shares compassionate, practical tools for navigating emotional triggers, political stress, and collective trauma—while staying grounded in love, self-awareness, and truth. Together, TJ and Davina unpack: The emotional impact of political and cultural polarization Lessons from LGBTQ+ history, including the AIDS crisis and the marriage equality movement. How to balance activism with inner peace The difference between reactivity and conscious response Why self-care and nervous system regulation are essential right now How to stay connected to your truth—even in difficult conversations Davina’s work bridges mental health, social justice, and spiritual growth, offering a powerful roadmap for anyone seeking to live with greater authenticity, resilience, and self-acceptance. 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Dr. Davina Kotulski: https://drdavinakotulski.com/ #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:29 – Living in “Interesting Times” 02:08 – LGBTQ+ History & Resilience 05:03 – Inner Freedom vs External Chaos 07:24 – Activism, Love & Consciousness 12:08 – Media, Algorithms & Emotional Triggers 23:10 – Healing in Real-Life Situations 31:51 – Final Takeaways: Self-Care & Resilience
Self-Care Isn't Selfish | It's Your Superpower
In Season 3, Episode 2 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with Brittany Leach, Marketing Director at Gossip Grill, to explore the transformative journey of healing, sobriety, and self-discovery within the LGBTQ+ community. Brittany shares her personal story of stepping away from alcohol, confronting suppressed emotions, and rediscovering joy in its most authentic form. What begins as a conversation about nightlife and community quickly evolves into a profound exploration of identity, trauma, and what it truly means to “meet yourself.” With over 17 years at Gossip Grill, Brittany has helped shape one of the most inclusive and community-driven spaces in San Diego. This organization gives back nearly $500,000 annually to causes including mental health, unhoused support, and trans advocacy. Her work blends storytelling, connection, and purpose-driven marketing to create meaningful impact both online and in real life. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why sobriety can initially feel harder—not easier How identity shifts when you remove coping mechanisms The role of community in healing and transformation Why compassion is the key to personal and collective growth How moments of joy signal true emotional recovery 🎧 Whether you’re navigating sobriety, questioning your identity, or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers insight, validation, and inspiration. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Heather Hester: https://www.heatherhester.net #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:12 — Healing Is a Privilege 02:13 — Gossip Grill’s Impact on the Community 06:10 — Sobriety Isn’t Instant Happiness 10:10 — “Who Am I Without Alcohol?” 15:54 — The Moment Joy Returned 29:41 — “Please Stay. It’s Worth It.”
Identity Shifts Nobody Warned Me About | Sobriety Story
In Season 3, Episode 1 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward interviews Heather Hester—speaker, author, advocate, and host of the award-winning More Human. More Kind. podcast—to explore what it truly means to support and love LGBTQ+ children. Heather shares her personal journey as a parent of two LGBTQ+ kids, opening up about the fear, confusion, and deep transformation that followed her son’s coming out at 16. What began as a search for answers became a mission to help other families navigate similar experiences with compassion and courage. As the author of Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias, Embrace Your Child. Empower Their Authenticity: Heather’s work centers on meeting people exactly where they are—guiding them through complex, emotional moments with a calm, grounded presence. Together, TJ and Heather dive into: The intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ identity How to move through fear-based beliefs Why doing your own “inner work” as a parent matters The importance of community, boundaries, and grace Letting go of control and embracing authentic connection 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Heather Hester: https://www.heatherhester.net #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:14 — Heather’s Story Begins 05:50 — Faith, Fear, and Letting Go of “Hell” Narratives 08:40 — Rebuilding Faith on Your Own Terms 12:29 — Finding (and Losing) Community 17:32 — Embracing the Messiness & Giving Grace 29:39 — Boundaries, Intent, and Protecting Your Peace
Parenting LGBTQ+ Kids: Heather Hester on Faith, Fear & Finding True Acceptance
In Season 2, Episode 26 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Betsy Spier to explore the complex and often hidden impact of internalized homophobia. Even after coming out, many LGBTQ people carry unconscious shame shaped by cultural messaging, family dynamics, and early life experiences. Betsy shares her personal story of growing up during the feminist movement, navigating identity in the late 70s and 80s, and discovering how deeply internalized beliefs can linger—even after decades of personal growth. Together, TJ and Betsy unpack how shame, trauma, and identity conditioning affect LGBTQ mental health and discuss practical ways to heal through awareness, connection, experiential therapy, and inner child work. They also explore: • How internalized homophobia shows up in everyday thoughts and behaviors • Why awareness is the first step toward healing • The power of experiential therapy and psychodrama • Why connection—not isolation—is essential for recovery • The importance of self-acceptance and internal safety This conversation is a compassionate and insightful look at the journey toward authenticity, healing, and deeper self-love within the LGBTQ community. If you’re interested in LGBTQ mental health, trauma recovery, self-acceptance, or personal growth, this episode offers powerful tools and perspectives. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Betsy Spier: https://betsyspier.com #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:24 - How Internalized Homophobia Forms 04:05 – The Hidden Link Between Shame and Self-Worth 06:21 – Awareness Is the First Step Toward Healing 19:01 – Integration vs. Isolation in the LGBTQ Community 27:12 – Experiential Therapy & Inner Child Healing
The Hidden Shame Many LGBTQ People Carry And How to Heal It With Betsy Spier LMFT
In Season 2, Episode 25 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward welcomes Rev. Cindy Edelson, Senior Minister of Centers for Spiritual Living in Salt Lake City. Together, they explore the deeper call for healing within the LGBTQ+ community and the transformative power of compassion, connection, and spiritual awareness. Rev. Cindy shares her experience building an LGBTQ+ and allies support group in Utah and how authentic dialogue can break down fear, misunderstanding, and division. The conversation dives into topics many LGBTQ+ people can relate to—childhood shame, internalized beliefs, spiritual trauma, and the journey back to self-acceptance. TJ and Cindy also explore how practices like mindfulness, awareness, and spiritual teachings can help people break free from negative mental loops, media overload, and “doomscrolling,” allowing us to create a more loving relationship with ourselves and others. If you’ve ever struggled with shame, felt disconnected from your spiritual path, or wondered how to create deeper compassion in a polarized world, this conversation offers insight, hope, and practical tools for healing. Topics covered include: Healing LGBTQ+ shame and internalized stigma Building a connection between LGBTQ+ people and allies Breaking free from doomscrolling and negativity The role of spirituality in healing trauma Self-compassion and learning to be gentle with yourself 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Rev. Cindy Edelson: https://spirituallyfree.org/leadership #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 02:30 – Why LGBTQ+ Presence Matters in Utah 04:00 – Creating an LGBTQ+ & Allies Support Group 11:30 – Breaking the Doomscrolling Cycle 17:40 – Rewiring the Mind: The Power of Awareness 25:20 – Childhood Shame & LGBTQ+ Identity 34:00 – Healing Spiritual Trauma & Finding New Faith 37:20 – Cindy’s Final Message: Be Gentle with Yourself
Can Spirituality Heal LGBTQ+ Shame? Rev Cindy Edelson Answers
In Season 2, Episode 24 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward welcomes Brian Nachreiner, a queer man in long-term addiction recovery. They discuss Brian's journey and the podcast's mission to highlight individuals making a difference in the lgbtqia community. This conversation explores gay self-acceptance and strategies for healing shame, fostering shame resilience, and supporting a thriving recovery. and the internalized shame many LGBTQ+ people carry—especially those raised in religious environments. Growing up in a Catholic household, he shares how early messages of “being wrong” became embedded as core beliefs, shaping his self-perception long into adulthood. Together, they unpack how internalized homophobia often becomes indistinguishable from shame and why true healing requires more than intellectual understanding. The discussion moves beyond cultural commentary into the heart of recovery and self-discovery, touching on 12-step foundations, therapy, meditation, inner child work, sobriety, emotional rock bottoms, and the myth that we are fundamentally broken. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing: https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – External vs. Internal Homophobia 02:01 – Religious Conditioning & Core Beliefs 06:04 – Reimagining God in Sobriety 13:30 – Emotional Rock Bottom at Three Years Sober 18:53 – Perfectionism vs. Inherent Wholeness 28:23 – Meeting Yourself in Meditation
Beyond Sobriety: Healing the Wounds of Being 'Wrong' | Brian Nachreiner
In Season 2, Episode 23 of the Element Q Podcast, host TJ Woodward welcomes Roy Sciortino, LMFT, to explore the complex layers of trauma, attachment, and healing within the LGBTQ+ community. Together, they unpack transgenerational trauma—how secrecy, shame, and survival strategies formed in earlier generations continue to shape intimacy, identity, and relationships today. Royce offers moving reflections on queer history, internalized fear, and the ways marginalized communities have learned to protect themselves—often at the cost of authentic connection. The conversation dives into attachment theory and how early experiences of parental rejection, gender policing, and societal stigma influence adult relationships. Both TJ and Royce vulnerably share personal stories of avoidant and anxious attachment, early sexual experiences marked by secrecy and shame, and the unconscious belief of being “unlovable.” With compassion and clarity, they reframe these patterns not as flaws, but as “brilliant strategies” developed for safety and survival. They also connect trauma and attachment to substance use, highlighting how the search for safety, security, and comfort can drive both relational dynamics and addictive behaviors. This episode is an invitation to lean into authentic attachment, embrace compassion for the strategies that once protected us, and trust that the desire for healing is itself proof of our capacity to transform. 👉 Like and subscribe to support conversations on conscious healing, authentic living, and personal transformation. 🔗 Learn more: Element Q Healing:https://www.elementqhealingcenter.com TJ Woodward: https://www.tjwoodward.com Roy Sciortino: https://www.roycetherapy.com/ #mentalhealth #hope #inspiration Key Moments 00:00 – Intro 01:22 – Transgenerational Trauma & Secrecy in Queer History 06:46 – Shame, Desire & a Devastating Loss 14:50 – “I Don’t Need You”: Avoidant Attachment in Action 24:53 – Trauma, Attachment & Substance Use Connection 31:02 – Becoming the First Aging Generation of Gay Men 38:13 – If You’re Considering Therapy, You’ve Already Won
Attachment Trauma in LGBTQ+ Communities | Why Shame Keeps Us Trapped
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At Element Q Healing Center, we’re committed to providing affirming and accessible care for the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or supporting a loved one, we’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and understanding.

Our team is ready to answer your questions about our programs, insurance coverage, or how to get started. Your journey toward healing and empowerment begins with reaching out.

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Element Q Healing Center creates space for growth, connection, and renewal through identity-affirming and trauma-focused care. Our team of LGBTQIA+ practitioners understands your unique needs and is dedicated to supporting your wellness journey.

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(858) 422-1860

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info@elementqhealingcenter.com

Location

3750 Convoy St # 310,
San Diego, CA 92111