
Savvy Psychologist
Seeking a healthier emotional life? It’s time to bring a trained psychologist and mental health expert along for the ride. Dr. Monica Johnson explains the why behind complex emotions, helps you form better relationships, and guides you down the path of self-understanding.
Latest episodes

Jul 16, 2025 • 9min
How to start (and stick with!) hobbies for better mental health
Dr. Monica Johnson reveals the powerful psychology behind hobbies and how they are essential for boosting mental health, reducing stress, and fostering joy. Discover why engaging in leisure activities can improve brain function, build social connections, and aid in trauma recovery, even when life feels overwhelming.Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/how-to-start-and-stick-with-hobbies-for-better-mental-health/transcriptSavvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 9, 2025 • 10min
How 'Buy Now, Pay Later' companies use psychology to hook you
"Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) can feel like a "treat yourself" pass, but it's not magic; it's psychology. This episode looks at why BNPL systems are so seductive, especially for those with financial instability or emotional trauma. We also look at actionable steps to manage BNPL use, such as identifying the emotions behind spending and addressing financial shame.Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/how-buy-now-pay-later-companies-use-psychology-to-hook-you/transcriptSavvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 2, 2025 • 13min
Why making friends as an adult is so hard (and how to fix it)
Feeling lonely? This discussion uncovers why adult friendships are trickier to navigate than ever. It highlights the emotional barriers we face in a world focused on productivity. Discover practical, evidence-based strategies to forge and maintain meaningful connections. Learn to prioritize relationships, even in our fast-paced lives, and explore how to embrace the vital human experience of friendship.

Jun 25, 2025 • 44min
Understanding narcissism in relationships, with Dr. Khadijah Cyril
Dr. Khadijah Cyril, an expert in narcissistic personality disorder, joins Dr. Monica Johnson to delve into the complexities of NPD and its impact on relationships. They discuss how modern dating apps contribute to unhealthy patterns like love bombing and ghosting. Dr. Cyril highlights the emotional rollercoaster of being in a relationship with narcissists, emphasizing the allure and the ensuing chaos. With practical strategies, she empowers listeners to recognize toxic cycles and set personal boundaries for healthier connections.

Jun 18, 2025 • 14min
The downsides of dopamine (Reissue)
Dopamine plays a crucial role in our motivation but can lead to addiction and mental health issues when overstimulated. Strategies for achieving mental balance highlight the importance of mindfulness and exercise. The discussion emphasizes overcoming boredom and discomfort to tackle emotional struggles. Additionally, practical tips for regulating dopamine levels focus on fostering genuine connections and establishing healthy routines, ultimately enhancing overall well-being.

Jun 11, 2025 • 12min
Why your brain loves sports betting and how to stop
In this episode, Dr. Johnson gets into the psychological reasons why sports betting can be so enticing, exploring the mental traps and risk factors involved. It also provides practical strategies for individuals struggling with sports betting to regain control and find healthier coping mechanisms.Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/why-your-brain-loves-sports-betting-and-how-to-stop/transcriptHave a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at 929-256-2191. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jun 4, 2025 • 12min
The post-vacation blues: understanding and overcoming the letdown
Ever feel down after coming back from vacation? You're not alone! In this episode, Dr. Monica Johnson dives into the science behind post-vacation sadness, exploring why that 'back to reality' feeling hits so hard. Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/the-post-vacation-blues-understanding-and-overcoming-the-letdown/transcriptHave a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at 929-256-2191. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

May 28, 2025 • 13min
11 physical signs of a panic attack (Reissue)
How do you know when you’re having a panic attack? Today, we’re going over some of the physical signs of panic attacks and what to do if you frequently experience them.Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/11-physical-signs-of-a-panic-attack-reissue/transcriptHave a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at 929-256-2191. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

May 21, 2025 • 11min
Communication tips for deepening relationships
Learn practical, evidence-based communication strategies to deepen your relationships and combat loneliness. Psychologist Dr. Monica Johnson shares tips for active listening, vulnerability, and building emotional intimacy.Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available here: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/communication-tips-for-deepening-relationships/transcriptHave a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com.Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

May 14, 2025 • 11min
What your low sex drive is trying to tell you
Sexual desire naturally ebbs and flows, but when it disappears for a while, it can leave you confused, disconnected, or worried. Monica unpacks the most common reasons for low libido—and how to talk about it with your partner without blame or shame.Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast.Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com.Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/