Psychology In Seattle Podcast

Dr. Kirk Honda tackles a range of intriguing mental health topics. He discusses the importance of therapy beyond romantic relationships, the skepticism around therapists encouraging immorality, and the paradox of self-help leading to dissatisfaction. He challenges generational stereotypes about resilience and critiques how societal conditions impact mental health. Kirk also explores the nuances of self-diagnosis, the effects of 'I don't owe anyone anything' on community, and the complexities surrounding autism and neurodivergence.

Dive into the intriguing world of sexual fantasies! Discover findings from a survey revealing how fantasies vary across age groups, with younger fans favoring romance and older folks showing interest in threesomes. Explore the prevalence of fantasies and what they reveal about sexuality, including the curious allure of BDSM. The hosts tackle the complexities of rape fantasies, their psychological underpinnings, and how gender influences our imaginations. Plus, find out how personality traits can predict fantasy types. It's a fascinating look at the landscape of desire!

Dr. Kirk Honda dives into intriguing listener hot takes about mental health. He explores how intergenerational trauma influences post-communist regions and critiques the cultural perceptions around patriarchy and emotional expression. The discussion also touches on the complexities of transference in therapy and the often-overlooked spectrum of catatonia. Kirk evaluates the implications of attachment theory online, the societal role of psychologists, and the therapeutic potential of spirituality. He weighs the necessity of emergency psychiatric holds and reflects on modern life's impact on mental health.

Dr. Kirk and Bob dive into social anxiety, sharing insights on how common and relatable it is. They explore practical tools to manage anxiety, including conversation planning and cognitive behavioral therapy methods. Kirk shares personal anecdotes about his own experiences with shyness, revealing that even the most outgoing can feel frozen in certain social situations. They also touch on the use of beta-blockers for anxiety relief and discuss the importance of prioritizing personal needs over the pressure to change.

Umberto (Berto) Castaneda, a designer of tattoos and a frequent co-host, joins the conversation to dive into the chilling world of NXIVM. They explore the allure of cults, dissecting the tactics used to recruit vulnerable individuals. Delving into the psychopathic traits of leader Keith Raniere, they discuss Allison Mack's controversial role and the complexities of victimhood. The duo also examines the dark underbelly of NXIVM’s structure, including coercion and branding initiation rituals, revealing the unsettling psychology behind why people join such groups.

Dr. Kirk Honda and Isaiah from Therapy Today tackle some eye-opening mental health topics. They debunk misconceptions around kink stereotypes and discuss the importance of consent. The conversation shifts to the allure of therapy careers fueled by social media, while they dissect the concept of limerence and its nuances. Isaiah shares insights from his YouTube journey, and they explore how good friends can sometimes provide support beyond therapy. Lastly, they examine the idea of being an 'empath' and its relation to trauma versus compassion.

Explore the chilling psychology behind Ted Bundy’s gruesome crimes. Delve into his early life, revealing familial and biological influences on his violent tendencies. Discover how his intense relationship with Stephanie Brooks may have sparked his horrific fantasies. The hosts dissect society's morbid fascination with serial killers and examine the impact of misogyny on Bundy’s psyche. Gain insights into his psychopathic traits and how they compare to less extreme forms of deception. A deep dive into the darkness of human behavior awaits!

Kirk and Bob dive into the complexities of grief and the hurdles people face when dealing with difficult emotions. They tackle the effects of shame and avoidance on personal growth and desires. A thought-provoking discussion on the impact of religious culture reveals how it shapes family dynamics. They also address the challenges of grieving a therapist's sudden death, exploring the nuances of memorialization. Finally, they weigh the pros and cons of couples sharing a therapist after infidelity, highlighting the need for balance in therapy.

Dive into a captivating discussion about the forensic theories surrounding JonBenét Ramsey's case and how expert testimony shapes public perception of trials. Kirk shares his thoughts on the film Weapons, contrasting it with the acclaimed K-pop Demon Hunters for its animation and storytelling. Explore the evolution of J-pop vs. K-pop, the appeal of K-dramas to older viewers, and the cultural resonance of storytelling in films like Licorice Pizza. Plus, enjoy Kirk's heartfelt apology to Humberto, highlighting their friendship's role in processing grief.

Dive into the Enneagram personality test and its rising popularity! The hosts tackle its scientific validity and how it’s viewed by skeptics. They explore whether it holds real value in therapy, despite some skepticism. Personal stories highlight how the Enneagram brings people together, especially in religious communities. Discover the curious balance between subjective usefulness and scientific backing, all while enjoying lively debates about personality testing.