
Therapy in a Nutshell
I’m Emma McAdam, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and my mission is to make mental health resources more easy to access. I take therapy skills and psychological research and condense them down into bite-sized nuggets of help.
I’m here to spread the message that while mental illness is real, it’s common, it’s debilitating, it’s also treatable. There are dozens of research-backed approaches to treating depression, anxiety, and other mental illness. Change, growth, and healing are possible. Please keep courage! Try one little thing every day to improve your life and health and things can get so much better!
Therapy in a Nutshell, and the information provided by Emma McAdam, is solely intended for informational and entertainment purposes and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Although Emma McAdam is a licensed marriage and family therapist, the views expressed on this site or any related content should not be taken for medical or psychiatric advice. Always consult your physician before making any decisions related to your physical or mental health.
Therapy in a Nutshell and it’s logo are Registered Trademarks of Therapy in a Nutshell, LLC
Latest episodes

9 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 16min
Lasting Treatments for Anxiety vs. Coping Skills - Is THIS why Therapy isn't working?
Many people struggle with anxiety despite trying various methods. Short-term coping skills may provide temporary relief but fail to address the root causes. Through Gwen's story, the importance of long-term strategies is highlighted, emphasizing the need to repair the 'leaking boat' of mental health. This podcast delves into cognitive treatments and therapy that can change your relationship with anxiety over time, although they might initially feel uncomfortable. Discover how lasting solutions can help you move beyond crisis mode.

5 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 10min
5 Lies Depression Tells You - Depression Motivation, it gets better
Discover the five deceptive lies that depression tells, distorting reality and fueling feelings of hopelessness. Learn how to recognize that you're not alone in your struggles and that seeking help is essential. Realize the importance of confronting shame and worthlessness while taking action to improve your mental health. Explore practical steps for overcoming the emotional pain, including small tasks to boost motivation. This journey reminds you that healing is possible and that support is always within reach.

7 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 20min
Depression in the Nervous System
Discover how depression affects not just the mind, but the entire nervous system. Explore how trauma, especially from childhood, can lead to feelings of emotional numbness and lack of motivation. Learn about hypoarousal and its effects on emotional well-being. The discussion reveals practical strategies and body-based techniques to help move from states of shutdown to feelings of safety and connection. Reconnect with your body to foster healing and overcome chronic exhaustion and despair.

Jan 30, 2025 • 13min
Setting a Boundary vs. Trying to Control Someone
Discover the vital difference between setting personal boundaries and trying to control others. Real-life scenarios illustrate how to assert boundaries without being aggressive. Learn about empowering personal growth through mental health skills and the importance of acceptance and courage. Resources for improving emotional well-being and relationships are also introduced, making it clear that boundaries are essential for healthy interactions.

Jan 23, 2025 • 18min
Hate Affirmations? How to Improve your Self-Esteem Anyway
Discover how to improve self-esteem without relying on positive affirmations. The discussion emphasizes questioning negative self-talk and adopting neutral language instead. Learn the importance of defining the person you want to be and celebrating even the smallest wins. Explore self-compassion as a crucial element in mental health and personal relationships, encouraging kindness over self-judgment. These practical strategies aim to foster genuine growth and enhance your self-esteem!

5 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 39min
The Body Keeps the Score - Book Summary by a Therapist w/o the Triggering Bits
Dive into the complexities of trauma and its effects on the brain and body. Learn how different responses can shape emotional health and lead to PTSD. Discover body-centric healing methods, including neurofeedback therapy, that empower survivors. Explore the importance of community and diverse healing approaches in recovery. Lastly, gain insights into mental health resources that support emotional processing, equipping you with the tools for a better understanding of trauma.

9 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 12min
The Keto Cure? Groundbreaking Research into Metabolic Treatments for Mental Health Conditions
Discover how the ketogenic diet may transform mental health treatments. Research reveals its potential in improving conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Personal stories, like one woman who found relief and stopped her medications, highlight the diet's impact. Experts theorize that mental illnesses may stem from metabolic dysfunction, suggesting dietary changes and exercise could be key. While promising, challenges such as adherence and long-term health effects remain, prompting a deeper exploration into this innovative approach.

19 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 11min
Why Trauma and Stress Trigger Weight Gain and Diabetes (Hint, it's Cortisol)
Explore the surprising link between childhood trauma and the increased risk of obesity and diabetes. Discover how stress and cortisol affect our bodies, causing appetite spikes and weight gain. Learn about the stress cycle and how chronic stress can keep our bodies in a constant state of alert. Unravel the lasting impact of adverse childhood experiences on our health and gain insights into effective stress management strategies. This discussion offers practical tips to regain control and promote well-being.

Dec 19, 2024 • 43min
Re-Regulating your Nervous System after CPTSD with Crappy Childhood Fairy Anna Runkle
In this engaging conversation, Anna Runkle, known as the "Crappy Childhood Fairy" and author of "Re-Regulated," shares her insights on complex PTSD and emotional regulation. She discusses how early childhood trauma affects neurological function and offers practical techniques for healing, like expressive writing and meditation. Anna highlights the importance of self-empowerment, daily routines, and social connections in overcoming trauma. With personal stories and actionable advice, she inspires listeners to embark on their journey toward emotional well-being.

9 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 18min
The Science Behind Morning Depression (And What to Do About It)
Morning depression can hit hard, leaving many feeling fatigued and hopeless right after waking. Biological factors like the cortisol spike and circadian rhythm misalignment play a major role. Simple changes, such as light therapy and establishing a positive morning routine, can make a difference. Exploring hydration, gratitude, and even small actions like stepping out of bed can counteract the lingering gloom. Combining behavioral strategies with professional help can create a more uplifting start to your day!