Feb 5, 2025
In this episode Zack sits down with Hayden Fleischer and his mother, Amy, to discuss Hayden’s transformative journey through Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Hayden, who once struggled with debilitating anxiety that kept him out of school for months at a time, shares his experience of overcoming fear, rebuilding his confidence, and ultimately returning to Mountain Valley as a residential counselor. Amy, a psychotherapist, reflects on the challenges of recognizing Hayden’s anxiety, the difficult decision to send him to treatment, and the powerful impact of family therapy. Together, they explore the emotional highs and lows of treatment, the importance of structured exposure therapy, and the resilience it takes to reclaim joy and independence.
Now a mentor for others facing similar struggles, Hayden opens up about how the program gave him back his sense of self and purpose. He candidly shares how addressing his anxiety not only improved his mental health but also had measurable physical effects, reducing chronic inflammation and illness. His story underscores the crucial role of experiential therapy, community support, and exposure-based interventions in fostering lasting change. Amy and Hayden also discuss the long-term impact of treatment, including Hayden’s transition to boarding school, his success in college, and his aspiration to become a therapist. This inspiring conversation offers hope to families navigating the complexities of anxiety, emphasizing that while the journey is tough, healing is possible with the right support and interventions.
Zack’s Anxiety Hack- Zack shares and reflects on a quote from Mark Twain.
Fear Less is sponsored by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.