
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

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/

May 7, 2025 • 9min
What makes someone attractive? The psychology behind attraction
Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder — or the brain of the perceiver? This week, Monica explores the psychology of attraction, why we’re drawn to certain people, and how looks are only part of the equation.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/

Apr 30, 2025 • 9min
Oversharing: When can opening up go too far?
Oversharing can feel like connection in the moment and like regret afterward. In this episode, Monica unpacks the psychology behind why we say too much and how to create healthier boundaries around self-disclosure.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/

Apr 23, 2025 • 11min
The truth about gaslighting: Emotional abuse, power, and control in relationships
Gaslighting is a serious form of emotional abuse that manipulates individuals into doubting their own reality. The discussion unveils subtle tactics used by perpetrators and clarifies the harmful patterns that differentiate it from simple deception. Listeners learn about recognition strategies and the psychological motives behind gaslighting, empowering them to protect their mental health. Real-life examples illustrate its impact across various relationships, making the topic both relatable and urgent.