Why Do We Repeat Our Mistakes? Insights from Kati Morton

What this episode covers

In episode #492, Adam Posner welcomes Kati Morton, a licensed marriage and family therapist and bestselling author, to discuss the importance of mental health and the nuances of emotional well-being. Kati shares her journey into the field of therapy, sparked by her own experiences with family therapy as a teenager. The conversation delves into various topics, including the significance of language in shaping our emotions, the concept of 'eldest daughter syndrome,' and the patterns of behavior that lead individuals to repeat unhealthy relationship dynamics. Kati emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and communication in therapy, offering practical advice for improving mental health and relationships. Throughout the discussion, Kati highlights the challenges of navigating emotional patterns and the impact of societal expectations on personal growth. She also introduces her new book, "Why Do I Keep Doing This?", which explores the reasons behind repetitive behaviors and the journey of unlearning harmful patterns. The episode is rich with insights on how to foster healthier relationships, both with oneself and others, and the importance of seeking help when needed. Kati's approachable and relatable style makes complex mental health topics accessible to listeners, encouraging them to prioritize their emotional well-being. She’s a licensed marriage and family therapist, bestselling author, and one of the most trusted voices in mental health on the internet. Kati has been at the forefront of the digital mental health movement since 2011, helping millions make sense of emotions, trauma, and the patterns we all struggle with but rarely talk about. Her community spans more than 1.5 million followers and over 130 million video views, making her a true pioneer of accessible, everyday mental health education. She’s also the therapist behind the viral conversation around “Eldest Daughter Syndrome,” which grew into a broader cultural moment covered by Vogue and echoed across pop culture. Kati is the author of the bestselling books Are u ok? and TRAUMATIZED, with a new book, Why Do I Keep Doing This?, exploring why we repeat the same behaviors even when we know better. Across everything she does, Kati brings a grounded, deeply human approach to mental health that helps people feel seen, understood, and less alone. Learn more and check out her book! www.KatiMorton.com Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kati-morton-lmft-04801b7/