Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Elizabeth Ferreira, an associate therapist with personal experience in CPTSD, uncovers the often misunderstood nature of anger. She discusses how trauma shapes our connection to this powerful emotion and the dangers of repressing it. Elizabeth offers insights on healthy expressions of anger as a means of protest and self-advocacy. The conversation also touches on the importance of boundaries in relationships and how understanding our desires can lead to emotional healing through playful exploration.

Dive into the intriguing world of psychoanalysis as its historical roots and key concepts are explored. Delve into Freud’s major insights on the unconscious mind, repression, and transference, while also confronting the murky ethics and colonial ties entwined in its legacy. The podcast navigates the evolution of these theories, highlighting their impact and relevance in modern therapy. Ultimately, it offers both appreciation and critique of psychoanalysis, presenting it as a rich yet flawed foundation for understanding mental health.

The hosts dive into the pitfalls of the self-help industry, highlighting the dangers of excessive striving and performative growth. They explore how social media and capitalism fuel narcissism and the never-ending pursuit of self-improvement. Acknowledging personal anecdotes, they stress finding balance between agency and acceptance. The conversation addresses the commodification of self-worth and the shift from hustle culture to a more laid-back approach to well-being. Ultimately, they champion authenticity and community over the pressure of individual success.

Explore how early labels of being 'gifted' can lead to fear of failure and hinder personal growth. Discover ways to shift focus from perfectionism to enjoying the journey. Learn about the freeze response and the importance of rebuilding agency and resilience. Delve into the distinctions between borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder, and how they affect relationships. Finally, rethink modern friendship dynamics and the role of mutual support in nurturing fulfilling connections.

Join Forrest Hanson and his fiancée, Elizabeth Ferreira, an associate therapist, as they delve into the transformative power of inner child work in relationships. Elizabeth shares her insights on how small changes can spark meaningful growth, often revealing the hidden barriers to emotional connection. The couple explores the dynamics of love avoidance, attachment styles, and the challenges of deep emotional vulnerability. Discover why insight isn't enough for real change and how confronting past experiences can empower couples to nurture healthy relationships.

Dr. William von Hippel, an evolutionary psychologist and author, explores why modern comforts haven't translated to happiness. He argues that our focus on autonomy has decreased vital social connections, leading to feelings of loneliness. They discuss the evolutionary roots of this tension, emphasizing the need for warmth over mere competence in relationships. Gender differences in social needs and the impact of societal structures are also examined, providing insights on how to create more balanced and fulfilling lives today.

In a candid discussion, renowned therapist Terry Real, founder of Relational Life Therapy, and his son, Justin Real, a startup founder, tackle the challenges modern men face. They explore how traditional masculinity can lead to emotional disconnection and the appeal of red pill cultures. Highlighting the importance of vulnerability and emotional intelligence, they advocate for redefining strength as relational power. Their insights delve into how men can build healthier relationships and navigate societal pressures while embracing a new model of masculinity.

Dive into the intriguing world of self-sabotage as the hosts dissect why we make choices that undermine our goals. Discover how these behaviors often act as psychological self-protection, driven by fears of success and identity threats. Their discussion unveils the conflict between our ambitions and ingrained limitations, offering practical strategies for overcoming self-destructive habits. Real-life examples illuminate the struggle, while insights into understanding our inner dynamics pave the way for embracing change with compassion.

Terry Real, a renowned family therapist and author known for his work on masculinity and relationships, dives into the factors that sabotage intimacy. He discusses the shift from 'me' to 'us' and emphasizes the importance of relational mindfulness in overcoming conflicts. Real introduces concepts like the Adaptive Child and Wise Adult, shedding light on how childhood experiences shape adult relationships. A standout moment includes an engaging inner child exercise that invites deeper emotional connection. Prepare to rethink your approach to nurturing relationships!

Join Kimberley Quinlan, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of CBTschool.com, as she unpacks the complexities of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She distinguishes between obsessions and compulsions, revealing how trauma can link to OCD. Kimberley shares insights on effective treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and the significance of self-compassion in recovery. She also addresses common stigmas that hinder treatment, and emphasizes the importance of personalized care and support for those battling OCD.