Psychology In Seattle Podcast

Exploring attachment styles, the discussion reveals how secure attachment is often seen as the gold standard in relationships. Kirk highlights the complexities of romantic commitments, arguing that while many seek long-term partnerships, others thrive without them. A listener's journey through break-in trauma sheds light on recovery strategies and the significant impact trauma can have on well-being. The episode balances personal anecdotes with clinical insights, making for an engaging listening experience.

Dive into a riveting discussion about movies from 2025, featuring childhood nostalgia with "Where the Red Fern Grows" and critiques of franchise fatigue in "Avatar: Fire and Ash." Discover the successful sequel of "Zootopia 2" and the intense thrills of "House of Dynamite." Kirk reflects on the mixed reception of the latest "Fantastic Four" and the humorous charm of recent comedies. He also revisits classics like "The Last Jedi" and shares his binge-worthy recommendation, "The Residence." It’s a cinematic rollercoaster of insights!

The hosts dive into the controversial documentary 'The Social Dilemma,' critiquing its sensationalism while acknowledging its educational value. They explore how platforms like Facebook, Google, and Twitter manipulate user attention for profit, creating echo chambers and polarization. Comparing today's media to historical manipulation, they discuss the balance between privacy and convenience. Practical advice on social media usage and the emotional impacts of heavy use are also highlighted, offering insights on connection, self-esteem, and mental health.

Dive into the complexities of human behavior as Dr. Kirk explores the idea of having multiple schemas shaped by childhood trauma. Discover how traits of borderline and narcissism can overlap, and the subtle nuances of covert narcissism. Kirk critiques the tendency of novice clinicians on social media to label characters like Will Hunting, asserting that his emotional struggles stem more from avoidant attachment than narcissism. It's a fascinating discussion that sheds light on empathy, self-control, and the misconceptions in modern psychology.

Dive into the intricate world of gaslighting as the hosts dissect its origins and provide a detailed checklist for identification. Explore chilling real-life examples, including historical cases and personal stories from listeners that highlight manipulation and denial. The discussion also touches on related concepts like brainwashing and medical gaslighting, revealing societal patterns and the nuances of intimacy. Practical advice for recognizing and combating these tactics wraps up the conversation, empowering listeners to seek support.

A deep dive into a malpractice case unfolds, focusing on a couple's therapy gone wrong. The discussion highlights the challenges of transitioning to individual therapy after divorce and the crucial importance of informed consent. Confidentiality breaches become a central theme, especially when custody battles ignite. Ethical dilemmas surface as a therapist makes contentious custody recommendations, leading to a legal showdown. Dr. Kirk shares practical advice while reflecting on personal panic experiences, making for an engaging and informative listen.

Explore the intriguing world of dissociation with insights on its cognitive impacts and signs. Discover the complexities of sociopathy and the mislabeling stemming from trauma and social influences. Kirk discusses the nuances between antisocial behaviors and the challenges of diagnosing personality traits in minors. Unpack the viral Kendra TikTok case to understand personality distortions and treatment strategies, emphasizing the delicate balance in therapy while addressing past traumas.

In this enlightening conversation, Elena Herdieckerhoff, an intuitive life coach and advocate for highly sensitive people (HSPs), dives into the intricacies of sensitivity. She explains the genetic traits of HSPs using Dr. Elaine Aron's framework, discussing how deep processing and empathy affect their experiences. The duo navigates topics like the impact of nurturing environments on childhood outcomes, career fit for HSPs, and the nuances of sensory awareness. Elena also shares practical tips for self-management, emphasizing the importance of understanding sensitivity in personal and professional realms.

Rebecca Bloom, a seasoned therapist and podcast contributor, opens up about her recent divorce, sharing her emotional journey and the challenges of moving on. She discusses the feelings of being dumped and the importance of processing such experiences publicly. Rebecca dives into the complexity of the last few years, emphasizing trust and boundaries when sharing intimate details. With candid reflections, she highlights the therapeutic value of discussing personal struggles, encouraging others to find strength in vulnerability.

Join an intriguing dive into the psychology behind lying! Discover why we lie more in writing, and explore the myths around body language as indicators of deceit. From tax cheating to everyday white lies, the hosts dissect common fibs and their justifications. Learn about the surprising effects of beards on trust, and how peer influence can escalate dishonesty. Plus, hear personal anecdotes about accidental lies and the ethics of social decorum. It’s a compelling mix of research, humor, and personal insight into a universal human behavior.