Ep. 160 Understanding and Supporting those with Complex Medical Conditions with Psychologist Laurie Dos Santos

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Understanding and Supporting Young Adults with Chronic Health Conditions

In this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz hosts Dr. Laurie Dos Santos, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with adolescents and young adults. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her journey into psychology, her experience in addressing complex medical and mental health conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and the importance of building strong relationships with clients. She emphasizes the significance of validation and support, and shares insights on managing chronic illness through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Dr. Dos Santos also highlights the value of support groups and her work with Evolvin Therapy and Consulting, which offers virtual services to clients across 42 states.

00:00 Meet Dr. Lori Dos Santos: A Beacon of Hope for Young Adults
01:56 Introducing Your Host: Dr. Michael Lenz
02:27 Dr. Dos Santos' Journey into Psychology and Specialization
05:32 Understanding and Empathizing with Patients' Struggles
07:31 The Power of Support Groups in Healing
08:25 Navigating the Challenges of Invisible Illnesses
17:28 Effective Approaches for Managing Invisible Illnesses
24:47 Expanding Access to Mental Health Care with Evolvin Therapy
26:44 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*