Using Improv Comedy as a Therapeutic Tool with Dr. Juda Alcabes

What happens when a licensed clinical social worker walks into an improv class and discovers a powerful clinical tool? In this episode of The Therapy Show, I sit down with Dr. Juda Alcabes, also known as The Improv Therapist, to explore how improv comedy can be used therapeutically to treat anxiety, build intimacy, strengthen couples' connections, and help clients get out of their heads and into the present moment. Dr. Juda shares how taking an improv class on a mental health day eventually led him to develop a clinical framework for bringing improv into therapy sessions. Whether you're a clinician curious about adding more play and experiential work into your practice, or someone who has always wanted to try improv, this conversation is insightful, practical, and fun. In this episode, we discuss: How improv can support anxiety treatment Why play and spontaneity matter in therapy How improv helps clients move from overthinking to experiencing The connection between improv, intimacy, and relationships Why therapists don't need to be performers to benefit from improv How clinicians can thoughtfully integrate unique skills into their work Dr. Juda Alcabes, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker based in South Florida who specializes in sex and porn addiction. Known as The Improv Therapist, he integrates improv comedy into clinical work with individuals, couples, and groups. He is also a stand-up comedian and improv performer, and he offers consultation for therapists interested in incorporating improv into their own practice. Resources Mentioned: The Improv Therapist: theimprovtherapist.com Instagram/TikTok/YouTube: @theimprovtherapist Explore my 30+ NBCC-approved Podcourses: https://lisamustard.com/podcourses Get 50% off your first Podcourse here! Explore my other NBCC CE offerings: https://lisamustard.com/cecourses/ Try Berries AI and save $50 off your first month with code THERAPYSHOW50. Learn about Berries Annual Plan + FREE continuing education. FREE CE course! Earn 1.25 continuing education contact hours. The Promise of AI for Mental Health Professionals is available now. Free CE ChatGPT Tool: CE Course Builder for Mental Health CliniciansIf you're curious about teaching or continuing education but aren't ready to commit to creating a full course, this free tool is designed to help you explore ideas, clarify learning objectives, and think like an educator, without pressure or obligation. The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard is for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace therapy, consultation, supervision, legal advice, or ethical decision-making. Connect with Lisa: Visit lisamustard.com to explore continuing education podcourses, join the CE membership, and access full show notes. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague who could use a little more play in their practice.