The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy When Therapy Goes Vibe-Forward: The Cost of Losing Clinical Depth - An Interview with TJ Walsh, LPC
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Jan 12, 2026 
TJ Walsh, LPC, a licensed professional counselor and creative leader, dives into the complexities of modern therapy. He highlights the risks of 'vibe-forward' therapy, where relatability overshadows clinical depth, potentially hindering long-term change. Walsh explains the essential role of neutrality as containment in therapy, distinguishing between validation and effective treatment. He emphasizes the need for ongoing supervision and personal depth work for therapists, while also addressing the impact of social media on client expectations.
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Vibe-Forward Therapy Can Be Superficial
- Therapists building brands on relatability risk creating therapy that feels supportive but lacks clinical depth.
- TJ Walsh warns this 'vibe-forward' approach can reduce therapy to validation without lasting change.
Use Creativity To Stay Clinically Flexible
- Cultivate creative development and flexibility to think abstractly and respond adaptively in sessions.
- Walsh recommends creative pursuits to maintain clinical agility and critical thinking.
Get Personal Therapy And Keep Supervision
- Do your own depth-oriented therapy before and during your clinical career to know where your issues live.
- TJ Walsh recommends ongoing supervision beyond licensure to handle countertransference and complex material.