
Therapist Uncensored Podcast
Learn to use the sciences of the mind to help you understand what makes you emotionally tick. Two Austin therapists and their world-recognized guest experts break down the research in modern attachment, relational neuroscience and trauma in a challenging but entertaining format to keep you off autopilot and moving towards closer connections. www.therapistuncensored.com
Latest episodes

May 13, 2025 • 15min
Bonus – Interpersonal Neurobiology: A Path to Connection with Dan Siegel (267)
Patreon/Supercast Special Release –
Interpersonal Neurobiology: A Path to Connection with Dan Siegel (267)
This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Dan Siegel – 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. 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.
“Interpersonal neurobiology is like a common ground… It’s ultimately a lifelong journey toward wholeness.” – Dr. Dan Siegel
Time Stamps for Bonus – Interpersonal Neurobiology: A Path to Connection with 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!!

May 6, 2025 • 1h 3min
Disordered Eating: Attachment, Intuition & Cultural Influence (266)
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.
https://therapistuncensored.com/episodes/healing-body-focused-repetitive-behavioral-disorders-with-stacy-nakell-189/
Thank you for being on this journey with us!

Apr 22, 2025 • 1h 18min
Gender Fluid Identities & Creative Expression with Quentin Arispe (265)
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!

Apr 15, 2025 • 16min
Bonus – Disarming the Narcissist: Myths, Truths & Strategies for Healing with Wendy Behary (264)
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.

Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 3min
Neuroception and the Evolution of Human Spirit with Kim Barthel (263)
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.

Mar 25, 2025 • 59min
How Modern Attachment Meets Polyvagal Theory with Dr. Stephen Porges (262)
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.

Mar 18, 2025 • 17min
Bonus – Taking Sexy Back: A Journey to Empowerment with Dr. Alexandra Solomon (261)
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!

Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 6min
Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire with Shadeen Francis (260)
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!

7 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 1h 5min
Pleasurable Sex, Gender Queerness & Life Burnout with Dr. Emily Nagoski (259)
Dr. Emily Nagoski, an award-winning author and renowned sex educator, dives into an enlightening discussion about pleasure, intimacy, and the evolving landscape of gender identity. She emphasizes the importance of safety and supportive contexts for fostering connection and mutual enjoyment. The conversation addresses the challenges faced by the transgender community, advocating for patient-centered care and societal inclusivity. Nagoski also shares insights on managing burnout and finding meaning in life, reminding us that pleasure should take precedence over rigid societal norms.

Feb 18, 2025 • 17min
Bonus – Disorganized / Unresolved Attachment with Dr. Krista Jordan (258)
Dr. Krista Jordan, an expert in Disorganized Attachment and clinical psychologist based in Austin, joins co-host Sue Marriott for an enlightening discussion. They delve into the complexities of disorganized attachment, sharing personal stories and insights on its manifestation in therapy and everyday life. Topics include the critical role of feedback in fostering self-awareness, the intertwined nature of shame and anger, and therapeutic techniques for addressing unresolved trauma. Discover how these dynamics can shape relationships and self-perception in profound ways.