Dispatches from the Couch: Dr. Stacey Hettes on Therapy, Neuroscience, and the Long Work of Healing

In this episode, Andrew Mack sits down with Dr. Stacey Hettes, a professor of biology and neuroscience at Wofford College and the author of Dispatches from the Couch: A Neuroscientist and Her Therapist Conspire to Reboot Her Brain (Apprentice House Press).Stacey’s memoir explores the long and deeply personal process of healing from childhood sexual abuse, blending scientific insight with emotional clarity and vulnerability. We talk about the role of language in reclaiming one’s story, the emotional work of therapy, and what it means to keep going when the story gets hard.The episode begins with Stacey reading a letter she wrote to her therapist about a meme they discussed in session—an entry point that opens the door to a layered, moving conversation.Content Warning:This episode contains discussion of childhood sexual abuse. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit the links below.Support and resources:* RAINN* Zero Abuse ProjectResources & Links:Dispatches from the Couch is available here: BookshopLearn more about Loblolly Press’s second anniversary: loblollypress.com/pages/rootedSubscribe to our newsletter for updates, essays, and behind-the-scenes content: loblollypress.substack.com Get full access to Loblolly Press on Substack at loblollypress.substack.com/subscribe