Therapist Uncensored Podcast

Smartphones are changing how an entire generation grows up Art by “Insights into Things Productions” LLC “Only smartphones and social media can explain why teen depression and loneliness increased internationally after 2010.” Dr. Ann Kelley is joined by Dr. Jean Twenge to discuss her groundbreaking research on generational differences with a focus on how technology—especially smartphones and social media—has transformed communication, relationships, and mental health. They explore how historical shifts and longer life spans contribute to delayed life milestones and what she calls the “slow life strategy.” Dr. Twenge highlights the alarming rise in anxiety and depression among Generation Z, which is closely linked to increased screen time and reduced face-to-face interactions. Together they discuss practical steps parents can take to support healthier development and social connection. “Technology and individualism worked together to form a generation whose needs and wants would change dramatically over their lifetimes but who would always be guided by the idea of placing one’s own views and choices first—a concept that led to both greater acceptance of others and more self-centeredness.” – Dr. Jean Twenge Time Stamps for Smartphones: The Truth About Their Impact on Mental Health with Dr. Jean Twenge (269) 3:03 The slow life strategy and relationship dynamics 5:54 Mental health trends in generation Z 8:55 The role of smartphones and social media 11:59 Understanding the psychological effects of constant connectivity 14:55 Recommendations for parents and policy makers 18:09 What alarm bells are accurate About our Guest – Dr. Jean Twenge Jean M. Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University, is the author of more than 180 scientific publications and seven books, including Generations: The Real Differences between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers and Silents—and What They Mean for America’s Future and iGen: Why Today’s Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy–and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood. She holds a BA and MA from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan. She writes the Generation Tech substack. Resources for Mental Health in the Age of Screens: Dr. Jean Twenge on Generational Change (269) “Here are 13 other explanations for the adolescent mental health crisis. None of them work.” – Substack by Dr. Jean Twenge Dr. Jean Twenge – Website, information & resources “Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents-and What They Mean for America’s Future” – Book by Dr. Jean Twenge referenced throughout the episode Other Similar Therapist Uncensored Episodes https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/intergenerational-conversation-climate-202/ https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/tu50-the-psychology-of-an-entrepreneur-surprising-insights-with-guest-krisztina-z-holly/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   NOTE: Next LIVE Q&A coming soon June 13th! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  No dyes, no fragrances, no harmful chemicals—just simple, plant- and mineral-based formulas that you can feel good about using in your home. Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code TU at https://branchbasics.com/TU #branchbasicspod   Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu With added vitamin and minerals, and an upgraded probiotic blend, the new formula is more comprehensive than ever, helping to support immune health, gut health, energy, and more! Check it out at drinkag1.com/TherapistUncensored

“How people approach death is probably as unique as our fingerprint…. and yet the actual dying process is very similar” – Aditi Sethi Dr. Aditi Sethi, the founder of the Center for Conscious Living and Dying, shares her profound journey into the realm of death and dying. She discusses the importance of presence, the healing power of music, and challenges faced in community-based end-of-life care. Alongside Sue Marriott, they explore the profound themes surrounding death and dying, emphasizing the importance of embracing death to enhance life. From concepts like ecstatic dying to the role of psychedelics in alleviating fear of death, Aditi shares insights from her experiences as a death doula. “When I think about the great equalizer that is death – that spares no one – I see our shared humanity in those moments.” – Aditi Sethi Time Stamps for Facing Death, Finding Life: Conscious Dying with Dr. Aditi Sethi (268) 6:06 The role of presence in end-of-life care 18:11 Training volunteers for end-of-life care 25:21 Challenges in community-based care 32:01 Ecstatic dying: Transformative experiences at the end of life 38:03 Conscious dying: Preparing for the inevitable 45:20 The gifts of death: Transformative moments About our Guest – Dr. Aditi Sethi Aditi Sethi, MD, is a hospice and palliative care physician, end-of-life doula, and the Founder and Executive Director of the Center for Conscious Living & Dying. She is dedicated to bridging the sacred and practical aspects of living and dying, offering compassionate, community-supported care that honors the dignity and interconnectedness of all beings. Featured in the forthcoming film The Last Ecstatic Days, Aditi is emerging as an integral voice or transforming our cultural understanding of dying, death, and bereavement care. Her recent TEDx talk in Asheville, NC, titled “The Art of Dying Before You Die”, reflects her passion for inspiring a holistic and sacred approach to the end-of-life journey. Her work is inspired by her Indian heritage, spiritual practices, and love for music as a tool for healing and transformation. Resources for Facing Death, Finding Life: Conscious Dying with Dr. Aditi Sethi (268) The Art of Dying – Aditi Seth’s Ted Talk The Last Ecstatic Days – Documentary featuring Dr. Sethi aditimusic.com – Aditi’s music website and information aditisethimd.com – Aditi’s website and resources Report on the Lancet Commission on the Value of Death: bringing death back into life – Paper recommend by Dr. Sethi Other Relevant TU Episodes https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/embodied-dying-embracing-the-sacred-union-between-life-death-253/ Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   NOTE: Next LIVE Q&A coming soon June 13th! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  No dyes, no fragrances, no harmful chemicals—just simple, plant- and mineral-based formulas that you can feel good about using in your home. Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code TU at https://branchbasics.com/TU #branchbasicspod   Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu With added vitamin and minerals, and an upgraded probiotic blend, the new formula is more comprehensive than ever, helping to support immune health, gut health, energy, and more! Check it out at drinkag1.com/TherapistUncensored

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – The 9 Personality Patterns and the Enneagram with Dr. Dan Siegel (267) This is a sneak peek of our exclusive Neuronerd episode with Dr. Dan Siegel, who shares science of personality as it relates to the Enneagram, and answers the questions, how scientific is the Enneagram?   Available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Alongside co-host Sue Marriott, Dr. Dan Siegel explores how loss, vulnerability, and connection shape personal growth and healing. He discusses the science of attachment and personality, highlighting nine adaptive patterns that emerge from non-secure attachment and how it relates to the Enneagram. The conversation also explores how neuroscience sheds light on emotional needs, alongside Siegel’s personal reflections on his own attachment history and path as a professional. Together they unpack how neuroscience, motivation, and community impact therapy. The episode offers practical insights for clinicians, emphasizing a compassionate, non-shaming approach to mental health and the journey toward secure attachment and the feeling of wholeness. “It’s ultimately a lifelong journey toward wholeness.” – Dr. Dan Siegel  Time Stamps for Bonus – The 9 Personality Patterns and the Enneagram with Dr. Dan Siegel (267) 02:59 The impact of loss on personal growth 05:47 Teaching and vulnerability in professional settings 15:13 Exploring developmental pathways and personality 20:57 Addressing societal challenges through mental health 24:07 The science of personality and attachment 41:56 Non-Secure attachments and personality patterns 46:35 The nine personality patterns 01:14:44 Exploring motivation in therapy 01:17:50 The intersection of neuroscience and personality 01:24:34 Understanding temperament and adaptive strategies 01:27:30 Growth edge work in therapy About our Guest – Dan Siegel, MD Dr. Dan Siegel is the Founder and Director of Education of the Mindsight Institute and founding co-director of the Mindful Awareness Research Center at UCLA, where he was also Co-Principal Investigator of the Center for Culture, Brain and Development and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the School of Medicine. An award-winning educator, Dan is the author of five New York Times bestsellers and over fifteen other books which have been translated into over forty languages. As the founding editor of the Norton Professional Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology (“IPNB”), Dan has overseen the publication of one hundred books in the transdisciplinary IPNB framework which focuses on the mind and mental health. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dan completed his postgraduate training at UCLA specializing in pediatrics, and adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. He was trained in attachment research and narrative analysis through a National Institute of Mental Health research training fellowship focusing on how relationships shape our autobiographical ways of making sense of our lives and influence our development across the lifespan. Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   NOTE: Next LIVE Q&A coming soon June 13th! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

Food behaviors are deeply connected to self-worth Dr. Vanessa Scaringi and Kathryn Garland talk about the complexities of disordered eating and body image, especially in light of cultural pressures and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. They explore the differences between disordered eating and eating disorders, and also discuss how medications like GLP-1 affect eating habits. The conversation touches on how society promotes unhealthy body standards and behaviors, and how our emotional relationship with food is often overlooked. Highlighting the role of attachment styles in shaping eating patterns, they stress the importance of intuitive eating—especially when parenting. Follow along as they offer practical tips for developing a healthier relationship with food and explore therapeutic methods that support recovery. “There is this chaotic experience of food in our culture…sometimes we’re turning to food to cope and then other times we’re saying, ‘no, that’s bad’… It puts us in a disorganized state of constantly cycling through what are my needs and how do I get them met?” – Kathryn Garland Time Stamps for Disordered Eating: Attachment, Intuition & Cultural Influence (268) 06:01 The impact of COVID-19 on eating behaviors 10:13 The role of GLP-1 medications in eating behaviors 14:05 Body image messages and cultural pressures 33:53 Understanding disordered eating vs. normal eating 36:02 Intuitive eating and parenting strategies 45:59 Practical steps for intuitive eating 53:58 Therapeutic approaches to eating disorders Resources for Disordered Eating: Attachment, Intuition & Cultural Influence (268) Academy of Therapy Wisdom – “Hungry for Security: Healing Disordered Eating Through an Attachment Lens” – Vanessa and Kathryn’s new course Calm Counseling – Vanessa and Kathryn’s website, resources & information About our Guests – Vanessa Scaringi, PhD, CEDS-C & Kathryn Garland, LCSW-S, CEDS-C Vanessa Scaringi, PhD, CEDS-C, is a licensed psychologist in Austin, TX. Vanessa co-owns a group therapy practice called, CALM Counseling where she works with adolescents, young adults, and adult populations. Vanessa has dedicated much of her career to working in the eating disorder field. She is a relational psychologist who strives to understand the context of one’s eating disorder. By facilitating insight, Vanessa works with her clients to identify patterns and behaviors that interfere with living the life they want. She strives to instill a sense of hope, as she has found this is an important part of the change process. Vanessa also runs interpersonal process groups where clients can heal in community with others. Kathryn Garland, LCSW-S, CEDS-C is a licensed clinical social worker and supervisor in Texas, New York, and Massachusetts. She is an IAEDP approved Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant. Kathryn spent her early career and completed postgraduate training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy in New York City. She incorporates relational and attachment-based methods into her work with clients. Her experience includes working with LGBTQ+ teens in the NYC foster care system, community mental health clinics, as well as primary therapist and IOP Program Coordinator at an eating disorder treatment center. Kathryn co-owns CALM Counseling in Austin, Texas with Vanessa. Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   NOTE: Next LIVE Q&A coming soon June 13th! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Ann’s FAVORITE!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu ZocDoc  Sue uses this all the time!  Find a provider, their insurance, see patient ratings – all for free! AG1 – Ann and Sue’s daily gut health regimen. Other Related TU Episodes https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/healing-body-focused-repetitive-behavioral-disorders-with-stacy-nakell-189/ Thank you for being on this journey with us! 

Humanizing the queer experience is vital in art and media Quentin Arispe joins Sue Marriott as they share their incredible journey of self-discovery. Exploring themes of gender fluidity, the impact of theater on personal growth, and the balance between masculinity and femininity – they discuss the role of grief in creative expression. Their conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in the creative process, as well as the transformative journey of humanizing the queer experience through art. “I think everybody can obtain both their divine masculine and feminine.” – Quentin Arispe Time Stamps for The Fluidity of Gender Identity with Quentin Arispe (265) 05:50 The impact of theater on Quentin’s personal growth 17:47 Understanding divine masculine and feminine 21:45 The dichotomy of performance and authenticity 26:07 The role of grief in creative expression 42:07 Embracing duality in grief and joy 56:00 Exploring identity through music 01:17:05 Humanizing the queer experience About our Guest – Quentin Arispe Quentin Arispe is a versatile musician whose genre-blending sound is both innovative and deeply personal. Quentin explores themes of duality, freedom, and self-expression, challenging societal norms while celebrating authenticity and vulnerability. Featured in Austin Chronicle and performing at venues like The Bitter End in NYC, Quentin has also appeared at festivals such as SXSW and ACL. With influences spanning soul, R&B, indie pop, and pop icons, Quentin continues to leave a lasting mark on music. In 2024, Quentin released “As Above, So Below”, a two-part EP series that transitions from introspective indie rock to house-inspired tracks, exploring grief, healing, and liberation. Resources for The Fluidity of Gender Identity with Quentin Arispe (265) “as above,SO BELOW” – Flim by Quentin Arispe “Genre-Hopping Hustler Quentin Arispe Wants to Be in Every Room” – Article from the Austin Chronicle Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!  Next LIVEQ&A coming soon! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s   Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu You’ll get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. Check out DrinkAG1.com/therapistuncensored to get started Thank you for being on this journey with us! 

Wendy Behary, a leading expert on narcissism and founder of The Cognitive Therapy Center of New Jersey, dives deep into the complexities of narcissistic behavior. She clarifies that narcissism exists on a spectrum, debunking common myths along the way. Exploring emotional unmet needs, she highlights how narcissists often struggle with self-awareness. Behary also discusses the cultural implications of narcissism and offers practical strategies to protect mental health while navigating these challenging relationships.

In this engaging discussion, Kim Barthel, an occupational therapist and author specializing in trauma and sensory processing, joins Dr. Ann Kelley. They dive into neuroception, the brain's ability to sense safety without conscious thought. Topics include the evolution of self-compassion, the significance of sensory integration in healing, and the transformative Safe and Sound Protocol. Barthel emphasizes how understanding our own nervous systems can enhance emotional regulation and deepen connections with others.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Stephen Porges, a distinguished scientist and founder of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium, shares insights on the intersection of modern attachment theory and Polyvagal Theory. He discusses the evolution of attachment and how our nervous systems influence relationships. Porges emphasizes the importance of vocal tone in emotional expression and explores the Safe and Sound Protocol's role in promoting engagement. He also delves into how our bodies communicate emotions and the significance of feeling safe for personal connections.

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Taking Sexy Back: A Journey to Empowerment with Dr. Alexandra Solomon This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Alexandra Soloman – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Dr. Ann Kelley and Dr. Alexandra Solomon discuss her book ‘Taking Sexy Back,’ exploring the intersection of gender and sexuality, the impact of societal messages on women’s sexual experiences, and the importance of self-advocacy in relationships. They dive into the complexities of desire, body image, and the influence of patriarchy on both men and women – emphasizing the need for emotional awareness and connection in intimate relationships. Explore the evolving landscape of sexuality across generations and the impact of online dating and pornography on sexual experiences. “We are taught to serve, to focus on others, but we need to notice our own feelings.” – Dr. Alexandra Solomon Time Stamps for Taking Sexy Back: A Journey to Empowerment with Dr. Alexandra Solomon (261) 02:47 The intersection of gender and sexuality 11:52 Impact of body image on desire 14:52 Patriarchy’s influence on men and women 17:55 Emotional complexity in masculinity 28:05 The impact of pornography on sexual experiences 36:45 Embodiment and mindfulness in sexuality 41:50 Exploring pleasure and connection in relationships About our Guest – Dr. Alexandra Solomon Alexandra H. Solomon, PhD, is internationally recognized as one of today’s most trusted voices in the world of relationships, and her framework of Relational Self-Awareness has reached millions of people around the globe. A couple therapist, speaker, author, professor, podcast host, and media personality, Dr. Alexandra is passionate about translating cutting-edge research and clinical wisdom into practical tools people can use to bring awareness, curiosity, and authenticity to their relationships. She is a clinician educator and a frequent contributor to academic journals and research, and she translates her academic and therapeutic experience to the public through her popular and vibrant Instagram page, which has garnered over 200K followers. She is an adjunct professor in the School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University and is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice. Her hit podcast, Reimagining Love, has reached listeners across the globe and features high-profile guests from the worlds of therapy, academia, and pop culture. She is the award-winning author of Taking Sexy Back: How to Own Your Sexuality and Create the Relationships You Want, Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want, and Love Every Day: 365 Relational Self-Awareness Practices to Help Your Relationship Heal, Grow, and Thrive. Find Upcoming Events here!! Special Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice    Our Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s   Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. Use our link for a discount! Thanks for stopping by & for being on this journey with us! 

Desire is a liberating force Dr. Ann Kelley and Shadeen Francis, LMFT unpack the intricate nature of desire, extending beyond just the sexual realm. They unpack the challenges in identifying true desires, the role of embodiment in self-awareness, and the key distinction between wanting and liking. Together they discuss intimacy, self-discovery and communication – with an emphasis on the need for negotiation and authentic connection in sexual experiences. “The simplest of all luxuries is the freedom to pursue your pleasure.” – Shadeen Francis Time Stamps for Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire 05:15 The challenge of identifying desire 17:58 The nuances of wanting vs. liking 25:01 Desire in sexual contexts 35:07 Negotiating wants in relationships 44:41 The impact of technology on desire 56:30 Desire as a tool for liberation About our Guest – Shadeen Francis, LMFT, CST Shadeen Francis is a licensed marriage and family psychotherapist and a board-certified sex therapist. Her expertise spans the domains of mental health, emotional intelligence, and the intersection of sexual wellness and social justice. A sought-after voice in her field, Shadeen has been featured on major networks including ABC, NBC, and CBS, and has been the subject matter expert for prominent brands such as Essence, Bumble, Tinder, and Teen Vogue. Shadeen’s work extends beyond the therapy room, influencing nationally implemented curricula, global media strategies, and public health policies. Known for her signature brand of warmth and humor, Shadeen’s work is inspired by her commitment to helping people live lives full of peace and pleasure. Resources for Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire shadeenfrancis.com – Shadeen’s website, resources, and other information hello@shadeenfrancis.com – The best way to contact Shadeen @shadeenfrancis – Shadeen’s Instagram handle Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium – March 20-23, 2025. It’s an incredible conference – they’d love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice Please support our sponsors for this episode – they keep our podcast free and accessible to all!  Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu More goodness for your body and mind – Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/TU Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. Use our link for a discount! Thanks for stopping by & for being on this journey with us!