Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast

Over the last several years, Dr. Puder has worked as the medical director for Loma Linda University Health’s MEND program, a hospital-based intensive outpatient program (IOP) and partial program that works with patients who have chronic illness and their families. Jesse has been a lead therapist instrumental to the program’s success and Brian Distelberg oversees the MEND program and acts as the Director of Research for the program. During this episode, they come together to discuss the MEND program.  By listening to this episode, you can earn 1.25 Psychiatry CME Credits. Link to blog. Link to YouTube video.

In today’s episode of the podcast, we are joined by psychiatrist and neuropharmacologist Dr. Ken Gillman who is the founder and convener of the International MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) Expert Group and widely recognized as a world expert in serotonin toxicity.    Serotonin toxicity (syndrome) is a rare as well as potentially lethal form of toxicity that results from excess serotonin within neuronal synapses. There are numerous poorly written/controlled case reports that have perpetuated misinformation about drugs that can cause serotonin toxicity. While the word “syndrome” is often used, toxicity is a more accurate description given that toxicity represents a spectrum of severity rather than a defined set of symptoms. In today’s podcast, we will discuss the pathophysiology, causes, clinical presentation, criteria, controversies, and medical management of serotonin toxicity.  By listening to this episode, you can earn 1.25 Psychiatry CME Credits. Link to blog. Link to YouTube video.

On this week’s episode of the podcast, we interview psychiatrist, author, and founder of Gemma Women, Dr. Pooja Lakshmin. Dr. Lakshmin founded Gemma Women for the purpose of educating women on cultural and social structures that impact their mental health. Gemma also provides community groups, evidence-based conversations, and courses covering topics such as stress, inequity, and structural violence. In her new book, Real Self-Care, she discusses personal experiences that led her to create this transformative movement to redefine wellness. By listening to this episode, you can earn 1 Psychiatry CME Credits. Link to blog. Link to YouTube video.

In today’s episode of the podcast, we speak with Professor Nicholas Reid, author of, Prisons in Ancient Mesopotamia. After introducing us to how Mesopotamians viewed and treated mental health, Reid talks to us about the earliest historical records on imprisonment in the history of the world.  In his book, Reid discusses the evolution of the modern prison system as it relates to ancient Mesopotamia. Together we discuss the commonalities that can be seen between the ancient and modern systems and the benefits that come from learning about past cultures’ successes and weaknesses. It may seem safely assumable to believe that because we are thousands of years removed from some ancient societies and their often barbaric methods of treating humanity, that we have automatically advanced into a superior, more humane society.   But with our reliance on solitary confinement and a loss of meaning, our system is missing what could be a more healing and transformative journey. By listening to this episode, you can earn 1 Psychiatry CME Credits. Link to blog. Link to YouTube video.

Renowned psychologist-psychoanalyst Nancy McWilliams discusses mental health, transference, and dissociation in therapy with emphasis on safety, self-awareness, and therapist-client relationships. Topics include the impact of neglect, benefits of sports for ADHD, addressing dissociation, embracing patient anger, societal expectations, empowerment through personal responsibility, hypomanic traits, denial as a defense mechanism, and dialogues on therapeutic practice and learning.

The podcast delves into the concept of transference in therapy, exploring how past relationships impact current perceptions. It emphasizes the importance of addressing transference dynamics for effective therapeutic outcomes. The chapters explore vulnerability, open communication, emotional integration, self-criticism, authenticity, and love in therapy sessions.

In this episode, Dr. Cummings joins the podcast to discuss and give tips on overcoming social anxiety disorder. Individuals with social anxiety disorder tend to avoid important events and activities, such as classes, meetings, or public speaking. The disorder is essentially the fear of rejection by a group one would like to be part of. This is different from shyness because of the intensity and pervasiveness of the symptoms. By listening to this episode, you can earn 1 Psychiatry CME Credits. Link to blog. Link to YouTube video.

Dr. Jonathan Shedler discusses obsessive-compulsive personality traits, the spectrum of personality defenses, and the importance of therapy in integrating reason and emotions. The podcast explores tuning into bodily sensations, transparent communication to uncover emotions, and the impact of shame and transference in psychotherapy. It also delves into therapist-patient dynamics and different subtypes of narcissistic personality.

Dr. Michael Cummings, a key figure in California's drug formulary, discusses long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs). He highlights their advantages in improving patient adherence and significantly reducing relapse rates. The conversation covers the transition from oral medications, the importance of individualized dosing, and safety protocols. Cummings also addresses metabolic impacts and weight management strategies, ensuring a comprehensive look at how LAIs enhance psychiatric care. The discussion advocates for better treatment accessibility, particularly for underserved populations.

Join Dr. Phillip Resnick, a renowned forensic psychiatrist at Case Western Reserve University, and Alex Scott, a forensic psychiatry fellow, as they delve into the fascinating world of malingering. They discuss how to differentiate between genuine symptoms and deceit in psychiatric evaluations, particularly in high-stakes situations like legal cases. Explore the cultural factors that shape psychiatric symptoms and uncover the methodologies used to identify malingered conditions. This engaging conversation unpacks the challenges and nuances of forensic psychiatry.