Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast

Dr. Paul Wachtel, a leading psychologist renowned for his integrative psychotherapy, delves into the interplay of attachment theory and anxiety treatment. He introduces the concept of the 'disavowed self,' encouraging therapists to help clients reclaim denied aspects for personal growth. The conversation also highlights the nuances of confronting social anxieties and emotions tied to professional pressures. Wachtel's approach combines various therapeutic methods, offering practical insights for those looking to deepen their understanding of human behavior.

Discover the surprising mental and physical benefits of sauna use, including historical insights and personal experiences. Learn how heat exposure can enhance cardiovascular health and reduce depression risk, while exploring the connection between body and mind. Hear about blood biomarkers related to sauna sessions and the role of heat shock proteins in aging. Enjoy discussions on the community aspects of sauna culture, and find out how regular use can improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

Dr. James Pennebaker, a pioneer in expressive writing research, shares insights into how writing can heal trauma and enhance mental and physical health. He discusses the science of the Expressive Writing Paradigm, revealing its benefits in reducing PTSD, improving mood, and alleviating stress. Pennebaker highlights how structured writing interventions can transform emotional chaos into clarity, offering practical tips for incorporating writing into daily life. From boosting resilience to fostering self-compassion, this conversation uncovers the profound power of words in the healing process.

Dr. Tom Wooldridge, a psychoanalyst and expert in eating disorders, shares unique insights into the emotional complexities of these conditions. He emphasizes understanding the deeper emotional issues behind symptoms, highlighting the connection between narcissism, shame, and body image. The discussion covers the distinctive challenges men face with anorexia, emphasizing societal stigma and early life experiences. Wooldridge also explores the concept of 'father hunger' and how it relates to eating disorders, illuminating the importance of tailored therapeutic interventions.

Dr. David Puder, a psychiatrist with a focus on the intersection of psychiatry and politics, joins Dr. Mark Mullen, who delves into the ethical implications of the Goldwater Rule. They explore the historical context of this rule that arose during the 1964 presidential campaign and its ethical dilemmas for psychiatrists concerning public figures. The discussion highlights the challenges of diagnosing without consent, the impact of media perceptions, and the need for careful navigation of ethical boundaries in mental health discourse.

Delve into the lasting effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences on the brain and body, from impacting the HPA axis to inflammation and neurobiology. Explore how childhood trauma can lead to changes in cortisol response, brain regions like the hippocampus and amygdala, and inflammatory cytokines. Understand the link between FKBP5 protein, cortisol regulation, and mental health disorders, and discover the importance of therapeutic interventions in mitigating the negative impacts of early life stress on mental health.

The podcast delves into the disturbing dynamics of manipulation and boundary violations in therapy sessions. It explores the importance of accurate mental health portrayals in media, inter-generational dynamics in therapy, and the significance of maintaining professional boundaries. The episodes cover themes of abusive behavior, inappropriate therapeutic actions, and the value of sharing positive and negative experiences in the field.

Dr. Adam Borecky, a psychiatrist specializing in complex PTSD and borderline personality disorder, discusses the distinctions between C-PTSD, PTSD, and BPD, emphasizing trauma history and affective dysregulation. The podcast explores intersections of BPD and C-PTSD, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. It delves into trauma symptoms, mental illness severity indicators, and the value of reflective functioning in therapy for BPD and C-PTSD.

Dr. Michael Cummings discusses various topics including the effects of Valproic Acid in men during pregnancy, differences between lithium and Depakote as mood stabilizers, sustainability of Electroconvulsive Therapy for chronic catatonia, early signs of psychopathy in children, restless leg syndrome, timing for checking lithium levels, treatment of dementia patients, and innovative treatments in psychiatry. He also shares his personal journey from losing sight in the Navy to becoming a psychiatrist.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Howard Steele, a leading expert in attachment theory, unpacks the concept of reflective functioning—a key element in understanding emotional and relational dynamics. He explains how this scale measures our ability to articulate our internal states and those of others. Topics include the role of reflective functioning in treatment outcomes, its implications in parenting, particularly among mothers facing adversity, and its connection to mental health issues like borderline personality disorder. Steele highlights how improving reflective capacities can lead to healthier attachments and deeper emotional insights.