

CLOSER
Nicole & Ryan Thomas Neace
By their very definition, psychotherapists are opaque. Their work is done in relative isolation, its contents are confidential, and their personal lives tend to be relatively unknown except to a select few, and even they may still experience a discreet distance.Are they really who they say they are?What do they talk about behind closed doors?Is therapy a way of life for them or a role they play?Are the things they do and say in therapy good for the geese as well as the gander?Career psychotherapists Nicole and Ryan Thomas Neace reveal the contents of their own dialogue and relationship as an exercise in radical authenticity, presenting a foil to the shroud that often surrounds people who do relationships for a living. CLOSER brings listeners just that – close enough to catch a poignant and unapologetically intimate glance into not just what they do, but who they are.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 21, 2024 • 10min
Episode 5 (Mini-Bonus): For Julie & Tyler
In a touching reflection, a wedding speech brings profound insights on love and marriage. The beauty of genuine connection shines through as unresolvable issues in relationships are discussed. Vulnerability, empathy, and authenticity take center stage, highlighting the journey of deepening dialogue. The complexities of love are explored, showcasing how acceptance of differences can strengthen bonds. Wisdom from literary figures and personal experiences adds depth to the understanding of intimacy in relationships.

Nov 21, 2024 • 47min
Episode 4: OMG That's Not It
As the U.S. gears up for elections, the demand for therapy spikes, but conventional wisdom can mislead potential clients. The hosts dissect the real keys to therapeutic success, emphasizing that a strong bond with a therapist often outweighs qualifications. They discuss navigating therapist selection during stressful times, the nuances of specialization, and the impact of personality on connection. With insights from mental health experts, they urge listeners to prioritize personal fit over rigid expectations in their therapeutic journeys.

Nov 15, 2024 • 44min
Episode 3: We Had a Fight in Between Episodes 2 and 3 (aka, Process Talk)
Dive into the importance of 'process talk' in therapy, where the emotional dynamics of conversations can reveal deeper insights. Experience the challenges of vulnerability, self-criticism, and harsh communication as the speakers reflect on their own relationship struggles. Discover how distractions can derail emotional clarity and the role of parental expressions in shaping children's sports experiences. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of open dialogue for personal growth and understanding in relationships.

Nov 15, 2024 • 48min
Episode 2: Makes Me Feel
Ever felt someone's words make you angry? This discussion dives into language's role in emotional accountability. Through personal anecdotes, the hosts explore owning feelings versus blame in relationships. They tackle midlife reflections and the emotional challenges that arise, emphasizing the importance of navigating unresolved issues. Grief, pain, and growth in long-term relationships illustrate the intricacy of human connections. The conversation encourages deeper understanding and the potential for compassion, even amidst lingering conflicts.

Nov 15, 2024 • 42min
Episode 1: CLOSER?
Ryan and Nicole dive into the essence of authentic relationships and the challenges of vulnerability in their roles as therapists. They discuss how meaningful conversations shape our connections, emphasizing the importance of honesty and open communication. The duo contrasts real relationships with media portrayals and explores the impact of internal versus external control on personal growth. They also unpack the limitations of language in expressing emotions, advocating for deeper, emotion-driven connections.”} 追の人 myThey highlight the experiences of different perspectives and the necessity of creating safe spaces for dialogue.