Psych Up Live

  On the upcoming 25th Anniversary of 9/11 we are joined by Mary Fetchet LCSW, the co-founder and Executive Director Of Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES). She will share her story of 9/11 as a victim's mother and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who created VOICES. In the last 25 years VOICES has been as a lifeline for thousands of 9/11 families, responders and survivors. From testifying before Congress to international outreach, Mary Fetchet has been a voice that has helped communities prepare for and recover from tragedy. Her story is one that will inform and inspire. It is one that keeps unfolding with care for so many others. Mary Fetchet is the Executive Director of Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES), which she co-founded in 2001 after losing her 24-year-old son Brad in the September 11th attacks. Drawing on her experience as both a victim's mother and a clinical social worker, she channeled her grief into purpose, building an organization dedicated to providing long-term support services, mental health care, honoring the lives lost and promoting national preparedness. Under her leadership, VOICES became a lifeline for tens of thousands of 9/11 families, responders, and survivors and she created the 9/11 Living Memorial, an online archive of over 87,000 photographs documenting the lives of all 2,977 victims. Ms Fetchet's advocacy for the creation of the 9/11 Commission that led to sweeping intelligence reform. She testified 5 times before the US Congress and partnered with organizations in the U.S. and abroad to help communities prepare for and recover from tragedy. She co-authored research on the long-term impact of terrorism-related bereavement and published three trainings: Preparing for After (2013), VOICES of Experience (2016) and A Victim-Centered Approach (2024).

The amount of stress worldwide is at an all-time high as the Corona Virus spreads. Self-Care and understanding alternative ways of easing pain are important. This show takes a close look at the varied forms of Alternative Medicine from Energy Medicine, Acupuncture, Chiropractic to religious belief, embraced by millions seeking relief for chronic pain, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia etc. Our guest author, Melanie Warner draws upon her important new book, The Magic Feather Effect: The Science of Alternative Medicine and the Surprising Power of Belief, to invite us into a personal research journey which involves her meeting with clinicians, scientists, and healers world-wide, to answer questions like- Why have these Alternative Medicines become so popular? Why do some people report dramatic relief while others don't? Can the results be subject to scientific proof? Is it the placebo effect? Do we need to recognize and use the surprising system of self-healing that belongs to us.

 The Rape, Abuse & Incest Network  (RAINN) indicates that even with a vast majority of sexual assaults not reported to law enforcement, an estimated 423,020 people (age 12+) experience sexual violence annually. Sexual violence affects people everywhere. Its impact goes beyond survivors—hurting families, relationships, and entire communities. In this Show Jessi Bixler, draws upon her new and powerful book, The Story We Share to describe how the sexual assault she has suffered impacted her family and became a touchstone of both pain and ultimate healing. In many ways, there are no words for a victim to describe what has happened or how to respond. Jessi Bixler's painful and powerful book is a gift to anyone and any family that has suffered from sexual violence even to one member. Jessi Bixler is an author, speaker, marketing business owner and advocate for trauma awareness and survivor support. She brings honesty strength and faith to both her professional work and the story that she shares. Jessi lives in Missouri with her husband Chad and their two children.

In a post #MeToo era, many men want to take a step away from toxic masculinity, which perpetuates domination and aggression and consciously and unconsciously pressures men to behave in a certain way. A central theme of moving away from Toxic Masculinity is Sexual Consent- whether at a fraternity party or on the fifth date. The question of consent is one of concern for many men because they are uncertain about how to ask for it. They fear doing something wrong or wonder if it means giving up on impromptu much less gratifying sexual connection. This show provides the answers. In it, Dr. Eric FitzMedrud draws upon his new and important book, The Better Man: A Guide to Stronger Relationships and Hotter Sex to address the issues around sexual connection without drawing upon toxic masculinity. Eric's goal is to help men navigate sexual relationships with respect by giving them the skills to be better lovers, partners and humans. Everyone who wants a relationship with mutually satisfying sexual connection will benefit from his expertise. Listen In.

  According to Pew Research Center's landmark 2017 report, one in six U.S. newlyweds (17%) were married to someone of a different race or ethnicity in 2015. Such couples, families  and  their children are the future of America. How do they fare? What do they manage in a country that embodies the promise of acceptance but does not always offer a welcoming embrace. Today you are going to hear from Geoffrey Grief, and Victoria Stubbs who together with their third author Michael Wooley bring us a powerful insider look at interracial marriage based on personal interviews and surveys with people married to someone of a different race or ethnicity than their own. From family acceptance to rejection, from unexpected inclusion to the joys and challenges of raising multiracial or bi-ethnic children, they offer a realistic understanding of the challenges, sources of support and a reason to trust in the resilience of love and connection. Geoffrey L. Greif, Distinguished University Professor Emeritus and a clinical social worker. The author/editor of 17 books and over 175 articles and book chapters, Dr. Greif's focus has been on family relationships and friendships. His latest book we will be discussing today Interracial Marriage: How diverse Couples Navigate Relationships in a Divided Time. Victoria D. Stubbs has over 25 years of experience as a social worker, educator, holistic practitioner and author. She is the founder of Inner Truth Psychotherapy and Wellness and F.I.T. Coaching & Consulting. Victoria is the author of Untangled: A Black Woman's Journey to Personal, Spiritual and Sexual Freedom and co-author of Interracial Marriage: How Diverse Couples Navigate Relationships in a Divided Time.

Whether you are loving your single life or can't imagine choosing to live alone, you need to hear this powerful and revealing podcast. In it, Dr. Bella DePaulo, America's foremost thinker and writer on "the single experience," shares the experience of single people around the world who have chosen and embrace their single lives. Drawing upon social science studies of thousands of people and the responses of people who have written to her, she delineates the experiences, lifestyle and choices of those who identify as " Single at Heart." Dr. Bella DePaulo speaks to the stereotype that assumes that being single is not by choice but by default or defeat. She considers solitude, friendships, having kids, Intimacy and more from the perspective of those Single at Heart, those considering living as a single and those allies and friends who support them. This is a show that dares to ask people to consider how they want to live their best selves – Don't Miss it.

What if you could use 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science? You can. In this show, Dr. Therese Huston returns to Psych Up Live with her new book "Sharp" - a little book that can play a very big role is your everyday success. Across the age spectrum people want to focus better, remember more, handle stress, bias, cope with pain, stay healthy and unlock their full potential. Dr. Huston guides us. She has already done the research and captured what we need to know and do to be more focused and productive often with 10 minute (sometimes 5 minute) strategies. Whether you want to feel more effective at work, with family or in achieving your personal goals- Listen in.   THERESE HUSTON, PH.D., is a cognitive neuroscientist and Faculty Development Consultant at Seattle University. She was the founding director of the university's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and is now a consultant for its Center for Faculty Development. Therese is the author of previous books: Let's Talk: Make Effective Feedback Your Superpower; How Women Decide; and Teaching What You Don't Know. She has been interviewed on Harpers Bazaar and Goop for Let's Talk, and has written for TIME, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review and The Guardian. Therese has led workshops and presentations to Fortune 500 companies, start-ups and universities world-wide. She now lives in Seattle with her husband and their dog.

Parenting a child with an eating disorder is frightening, confusing, and exhausting. It leaves a parent feeling helpless, angry and too often filled with blame. In this show, Dr. Tom Wooldridge returns to Psych Up Live with his invaluable new book, End The Food Fight: Replacing Control with Connection to Help Your Child Heal from an Eating Disorder. This is not the discussion of a treatment manual or a substitute for professional care. It is a book that offers parents new ways of responding to a child with an eating disorder that foster healing in conjunction with professional care received.  By giving parents tools, Dr. Wooldridge, invites them to understand that Eating Disorders are not made of behaviors alone. Eating disorders convey meaning in what is shown, withheld, repeated or denied. As you will hear, by supporting and expanding the parents' understanding and response to the eating disorder, Dr. Wooldridge makes it possible for parents to reduce their fear and enhance the healing process for all. Tom Wooldridge, PsyD, ABPP, FIPA, CEDS-C Dr. Tom Wooldridge, PsyD, ABPP, FIPA, CEDS-C, is a tenured Professor and founding Dean, School of Psychology at Golden Gate University. Dr. Wooldridge is a board-certified clinical psychologist, certified psychoanalyst, and certified eating disorders specialist–consultant, licensed in both California and New York. A Brown University graduate, he has authored six books with publishers including Routledge and Guilford Press, published more than 25 peer-reviewed articles and serves on the editorial boards of JAPA and Eating Disorders: The Journal of Treatment & Prevention. He sits on the Scientific Advisory Council of the National Eating Disorders Association, held an assistant clinical professorship at UCSF Medical School. At GGU, Tom has received the Outstanding Research Award twice, and the Judith Browning Outstanding Teaching Award.

In a post #MeToo era, many men want to take a step away from toxic masculinity, which perpetuates domination and aggression and consciously and unconsciously pressures men to behave in a certain way. A central theme of moving away from Toxic Masculinity is Sexual Consent- whether at a fraternity party or on the fifth date. The question of consent is one of concern for many men because they are uncertain about how to ask for it. They fear doing something wrong or wonder if it means giving up on impromptu much less gratifying sexual connection. This show provides the answers. In it, Dr. Eric Fitzmedrud draws upon his new and important book, The Better Man: A Guide to Stronger Relationships and Hotter Sex to address the issues around sexual connection without drawing upon toxic masculinity. Eric's goal is to help men navigate sexual relationships with respect by giving them the skills to be better lovers, partners and humans. Everyone who wants a relationship with mutually satisfying sexual connection will benefit from his expertise. Listen In.

The Rape, Abuse & Incest Network  (RAINN) indicates that even with a vast majority of sexual assaults not reported to law enforcement, an estimated 423,020 people (age 12+) experience sexual violence annually. Sexual violence affects people everywhere. Its impact goes beyond survivors—hurting families, relationships, and entire communities. In this Show Jessi Bixler, draws upon her new and powerful book, The Story We Shareto describe how the sexual assault she has suffered impacted her family and became a touchstone of both pain and ultimate healing. In many ways, there are no words for a victim to describe what has happened or how to respond. Jessi Bixler's painful and powerful book is a gift to anyone and any family that has suffered from sexual violence even to one member. Jessi Bixler is an author, speaker, marketing business owner and advocate for trauma awareness and survivor support. She brings honesty strength and faith to both her professional work and the story that she shares. Jessi lives in Missouri with her husband Chad and their two children.

Our show today is going to bring you up close and personal to the stories of men who struggled for half a life-time daring to find themselves, own and tell their stories. The power of this theme will be illuminated by our guest Vinnie Kinsella, a professional storyteller and reader, performer and the editor of the powerful book, Fashionably Late, Gay, Bi & Trans Men Who Came Out Late in Life.  Your story may be very different. If you have ever wondered if you should go public with your story – you will be informed, inspired and impressed by our guest Vinnie Kinsella.

Listen in for a personal and professional take on aging from Dr. David Hescheles, an over 80 years young Psychologist, Psychoanalyst, Group Therapist, Marital Therapist and Author. Drawing upon personal as well as medical and psychological findings concerning aging, Dr. Hescheles will share what he has been gathering. From a physical perspective he will consider the difference between Realistic Exercise vs Workouts, the value and use of a Gerontologist,  and the real meaning of Becoming a " Super-Ager" while confronting the medical and cognitive challenges of aging. From a psychological perspective, Dr. Hescheles will consider the gender differences in aging, identity changes, the risk of asking or not asking for help, the unexpected anxieties, the challenge of both embracing and changing aging and much more. Dr. David Hescheles is a NY State Licensed Psychologist with Post-doctoral Diplomas in Individual and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Group Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy. He is Past President and Outstanding Psychologist of Suffolk County Psychological Association and the Adelphi Society of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy. Dr. Dave Hescheles is Author of a widely read book Guide to Starting a Therapy Group with John and A Rae Rice.

What if you could use 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science? You can. In this show, Dr. Therese Huston returns to Psych Up Live with her new book "Sharp" - a little book that can play a very big role is your everyday success. Across the age spectrum people want to focus better, remember more, handle stress, bias, cope with pain, stay healthy and unlock their full potential. Dr. Huston guides us. She has already done the research and captured what we need to know and do to be more focused and productive often with 10 minute (sometimes 5 minute) strategies. Whether you want to feel more effective at work, with family or in achieving your personal goals- Listen in.   THERESE HUSTON, PH.D., is a cognitive neuroscientist and Faculty Development Consultant at Seattle University. She was the founding director of the university's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and is now a consultant for its Center for Faculty Development. Therese is the author of previous books: Let's Talk: Make Effective Feedback Your Superpower; How Women Decide; and Teaching What You Don't Know. She has been interviewed on Harpers Bazaar and Goop for Let's Talk, and has written for TIME, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review and The Guardian. Therese has led workshops and presentations to Fortune 500 companies, start-ups and universities world-wide. She now lives in Seattle with her husband and their dog.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people age 15 to 24 in the U.S. Nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide and 9% have make an attempt to take their lives, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Why is this happening? What can parents do? How can parents learn more about preventive strategies? In this show you will hear some answers from a true expert, Dr. Cheryl Green, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and the author of Heal Your Daughter: How Lifestyle Psychiatry Can Save Her from Depression, Cutting and Suicidal Thoughts. With clarity and compassion, Dr. Green addresses reasons for the mental health crisis with teens and why it is disproportionally high for teen girls. In the back and forth with Host Suzanne Phillips, Dr. Green describes Lifestyle Psychiatry and how aspects of lifestyle like a teen's diet, lack of exercise and sleep problems compromise mental health and can be addressed from a family as well as a teen's perspective. She offers suggestions for parents and answers difficult questions like "Why would a teen cut herself? She underscores the warning signs of suicidal thinking and considers how a parent can respond. Overall, Dr. Green recognizes how complicated this culture has become for teens and parents. Central to her message is supporting and informing parents and accepting and helping teens. Don't miss this important show..

Many people embrace and use Eastern Meditative Practices as a pathway to reduce anxiety, find peace or awaken a free and expanded sense of self. Others  have been in psychotherapy or psychoanalysis, as a way to reduce suffering, restore and expand self, heal from trauma, or find a "dwelling place" for pain. As such, it is likely that you have a personal sense of what such practices offer.  In this show, Dr. Jeffrey Rubin will discuss and exemplify his development and use of Meditative Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis which draws upon the mix of Eastern Meditative Practice and Western Psychoanalytic/Psychotherapeutic technique in a relationship that facilitates genuine transformation and healing. Dr. Jeffrey B. Rubin Dr. Jeffrey B. Rubin practices psychoanalysis and psychotherapy and teaches meditation in New York City and North Salem, New York. Widely regarded as a leading integrator of the Western psychotherapeutic and Eastern meditative traditions, Dr. Rubin created Meditative Psychotherapy based on decades of study, teaching and helping people to flourish. Dr. Rubin is the author of eight books and numerous publications.  He has taught at universities, psychoanalytic institutes and Buddhist and yoga centers.  Dr. Rubin lectures in the US and has given workshops at the UN, the Esalen Institute, the Open Center and the 92nd Street Y. His pioneering approach to psychotherapy and Buddhism has been featured in The New York Times Magazine. Dr. Rubin is a graduate of Princeton University, Columbia University, and Union Institute. In the 2025 Brazilian Ju Jitsu championships, Dr. Rubin came in first in New York and New Jersey and third in the world.  

In this show, Tiffany Braxton, discusses her new and important book," Consent Comics: An Engaging, Approachable Guide to Peer Pressure, Dating and Real-Life Boundaries," illustrated by Adilanie Garcia Amos.  Drawing upon her experience as an educator and a survivor, Tiffany Braxton will consider and exemplify how the comics with characters depicted in a non-gender and non-racial way are universally applicable and provide powerfully engaging dialogue that covers Consent as Self-Care, Inner Red Flags, Empowered Yes, Trusting Self Again and Turning Pain into Power. Listen and view this unique and important show.

"Why Do We Fall For Conspiracy Theories?" In addressing this question he also addresses the issue of why we hang on to conspiracy theories once we believe them. In his interesting response, Dr. Mc Andrew considers whether certain factors make us more susceptible to embracing conspiracy theories. He proposes that in reality most of us can fall for the " right" conspiracy theory due to certain biases in how we all process information. Once we believe a conspiracy theory, Dr. Mc Andrew discusses why these beliefs are very difficult to undo. He discusses the impact of many forms of media in often providing a " false consensus" and " Exposure Effect" that fuels conspiracy theories. Dr. Mc Andrews describes why conspiracy theories flourish in atmospheres of fear and the consequences of conspiracy theories. You will be intrigued and informed. Listen in.

There are few people who have been injured or wronged by another who don't think about and want to mollify their psychic pain with revenge. In this episode, Dr. Steven Berglas, professor, psychotherapist, research scientist and executive coach invites us to consider " Taking Revenge – A Better Way." The author of award winning books, 70 articles and journal reports on cures of self-defeating behavior, Dr. Berglas discusses the personal cost of angry retaliation and the power of redirecting the brain's reaction to danger. With a wealth of professional experience and powerful examples, Dr. Berglas discusses the ways in which revenge seeking fuels rumination, increased anger, isolation, physical and emotional pain. It traps us and intensifies the original assault. Dr. Berglas demonstrates how to cope with the psychic pain that prompts revenge with a shift of mindset to achievement striving, to the possible, to missions that undue atrocity, to healing and to growth.

From films to novels to real life situations, we have heard the term narcissist and wondered – What are the characterizes a Narcissist?  What does it mean to love a Narcissist? Rarely do we have the opportunity to learn the origins and the differences between Narcissism as a healthy sense of self-esteem and the pathology of someone with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder. In this show, psychologist and psychoanalyst, Dr. Anthony Mazzella joins us to look closer at Narcissism, its origins, ways to understand and ways to cope whether you recognize your own narcissistic behavior or the behavior of the narcissist you love and care about.

In this episode Dr. Deborah Serani, psychologist and author discusses the reality of depression as a mood disorder in later life. Drawing upon her new and comprehensive book " Depression in Later Life: An Essential Guide," she underscores that depression is too often overlooked by those suffering, their families and even at times by their physicians. In the back and forth with host Suzanne Phillips, Dr. Serani provides crucial information and illuminating examples that will be as valuable for health-care professionals as for seniors who don't understand why they are suffering. She will answer questions like: What Is Geriatric Depression? Isn't Depression a normal part of aging? Why is it so often missed or dismissed? What are the steps for proper assessment? What are the treatment options? Are depressed seniors a suicide risk? Adding to this, Dr. Serani considers the power of "conscious aging" as an asset to physical and emotional well-being. This is an important show for all.

Our show today is going to bring you up close and personal to the stories of men who struggled for half a life-time daring to find themselves, own and tell their stories. The power of this theme will be illuminated by our guest Vinnie Kinsella, a professional storyteller and reader, performer and the editor of the powerful book, Fashionably Late, Gay, Bi & Trans Men Who Came Out Late in Life.  Your story may be very different. If you have ever wondered if you should go public with your story – you will be informed, inspired and impressed by our guest Vinnie Kinsella.

What if you could use 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science? You can. In this show, Dr. Therese Huston returns to Psych Up Live with her new book "Sharp" - a little book that can play a very big role is your everyday success. Across the age spectrum people want to focus better, remember more, handle stress, bias, cope with pain, stay healthy and unlock their full potential. Dr. Huston guides us. She has already done the research and captured what we need to know and do to be more focused and productive often with 10 minute (sometimes 5 minute) strategies. Whether you want to feel more effective at work, with family or in achieving your personal goals- Listen in.   THERESE HUSTON, PH.D., is a cognitive neuroscientist and Faculty Development Consultant at Seattle University. She was the founding director of the university's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and is now a consultant for its Center for Faculty Development. Therese is the author of previous books: Let's Talk: Make Effective Feedback Your Superpower; How Women Decide; and Teaching What You Don't Know. She has been interviewed on Harpers Bazaar and Goop for Let's Talk, and has written for TIME, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review and The Guardian. Therese has led workshops and presentations to Fortune 500 companies, start-ups and universities world-wide. She now lives in Seattle with her husband and their dog.

From films to novels to real life situations, we have heard the term narcissist and wondered – What are the characterizes a Narcissist?  What does it mean to love a Narcissist? Rarely do we have the opportunity to learn the origins and the differences between Narcissism as a healthy sense of self-esteem and the pathology of someone with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder. In this show, psychologist and psychoanalyst, Dr. Anthony Mazzella joins us to look closer at Narcissism, its origins, ways to understand and ways to cope whether you recognize your own narcissistic behavior or the behavior of the narcissist you love and care about.   Dr. Anthony Mazzella is a psychoanalyst with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate complex personality dynamics. He specializes in psychodynamic treatment, with a focus on narcissistic and borderline presentations, using a deeply attuned, insight-oriented approach. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Mazzella is a faculty member and supervisor, mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals. He's also the creator and host of The Narcissism Decoder, a podcast and video channel that brings complex psychoanalytic ideas to life—making them relatable, practical, and especially relevant to understanding personality disorders and relationships.

In this show, Host Dr. Suzanne Phillips welcomes Dr. Elliott Zeisel, Psychoanalyst and Group Therapist whose award-winning televised series of an ongoing therapy group inspired Alexis Lloyd's award-winning film, 'Group: The Schopenhauer Effect,' just being released and starting to be in theaters across the US. In this film, Dr. Zeisel plays the role he has lived for over 40 years as a Group Therapist of an ongoing group of diverse members who have been with him for many years. In the fascinating new film, leader and group face a crisis in the leader's life that illuminates their personal issues and their relationship as group members in painful, powerful and profound ways. The film draws upon the theme of Dr. Irwin Yalom's renowned novel, The Schopenhauer Cure, which captures the pain, possibility, power and intensity of group therapy when the health of the leader is threatened. It is a riveting insider experience of group.   Dr. Elliot Zeisel is a psychoanalyst and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association. He has served as the Vice -Chair of the Foundation for Advancing Mental Health. He is a founder of the Center for Group Studies and serves on the faculty. Dr. Zeisel has maintained practices in New York City, Austin, Texas and Rochester, NY. He is an executive producer and actor in an earlier web series GROUP which ran for two seasons, released on YouTube and premiered at the Naples International Film Festival, where it won the Programmer's Choice Award. This feature film was shot three years later with the same cast and crew, with the addition of Thomas Sadoski in the role of the newcomer. It is already being released in theaters to much acclaim.  We have the rare privileged to speak today to the man behind the film and group therapist who plays himself in "GROUP - The Schopenhauer Effect."

In this show, Host Dr. Suzanne Phillips welcomes Dr. Elliott Zeisel, Psychoanalyst and Group Therapist whose award-winning televised series of an ongoing therapy group inspired Alexis Lloyd's award-winning film, Group: The Schopenhauer Effect, just been released and about to be in theaters across the US. In this film, Dr. Zeisel plays the role he has lived for over 40 years as a Group Therapist of an ongoing group of diverse members who have been with him for many years. In the fascinating new film, leader and group face a crisis in the leader's life that illuminates their personal issues and their relationship as group members in painful, powerful and profound ways. The film draws upon the theme of Dr Irwin Yalom's renowned novel, The Schopenhauer Cure, which captures the pain, possibility, power and intensity of group therapy when the health of the leader is threatened. It is a riveting insider experience of group.   Dr. Elliot Zeisel is a psychoanalyst and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association. He has served as the Vice -Chair of the Foundation for Advancing Mental Health. He is a founder of the Center for Group Studies and serves on the faculty. Dr. Zeisel has maintained  practices in New York City, Austin, Texas and Rochester, NY. He is an executive producer and actor in an earlier web series GROUP which ran for two seasons, released on Youtube and premiered at the Naples International Film Festival, where it won the Programmer's Choice Award. . This feature film was shot three years later with the same cast and crew, with the addition of Thomas Sadoski in the role of the newcomer. It is already being released in theaters to much acclaim.  We have the rare privileged to speak today to the man behind the film and group therapist who plays himself in "GROUP - The Schopenhauer Effect."

In this show relationship experts Dr. Judith Wright and Dr. Bob Wright discuss their new and interesting book, The Heart of the Fight: A Couple's Guide to 15 Common Fights, What They Really Mean & How They Can Bring You Closer. Dispelling many of the common myths of what you need to make a relationship work, these experts suggest that conflict is a couple's secret weapon for coming closer but you need to know how to fight and what to fight for. In a fascinating way they discuss the Art of the Argument: Six Skills for Battling to Bliss and the Fifteen Fights That Make or Break Your Relationship. From a closer look at fights like The Blame Game to You're Just Like Your Mother/Father, you will rethink the how and why of fighting in relationships. Ultimately this is a show that will expand the potential of your relationship.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people age 15 to 24 in the U.S. Nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide and 9% have make an attempt to take their lives, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Why is this happening? What can parents do? How can parents learn more about preventive strategies? In this show you will hear some answers from a true expert, Dr. Cheryl Green, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and the author of Heal Your Daughter: How Lifestyle Psychiatry Can Save Her from Depression, Cutting and Suicidal Thoughts. With clarity and compassion, Dr. Green addresses reasons for the mental health crisis with teens and why it is disproportionally high for teen girls. In the back and forth with Host Suzanne Phillips, Dr. Green describes Lifestyle Psychiatry and how aspects of lifestyle like a teen's diet, lack of exercise and sleep problems compromise mental health and can be addressed from a family as well as a teen's perspective. She offers suggestions for parents and answers difficult questions like "Why would a teen cut herself? She underscores the warning signs of suicidal thinking and considers how a parent can respond. Overall, Dr. Green recognizes how complicated this culture has become for teens and parents. Central to her message is supporting and informing parents and accepting and helping teens. Don't miss this important show..

 The Rape, Abuse & Incest Network  (RAINN) indicates that even with a vast majority of sexual assaults not reported to law enforcement, an estimated 423,020 people (age 12+) experience sexual violence annually. Sexual violence affects people everywhere. Its impact goes beyond survivors—hurting families, relationships, and entire communities. In this Show Jessi Bixler, draws upon her new and powerful book, The Story We Share to describe how the sexual assault she has suffered impacted her family and became a touchstone of both pain and ultimate healing. In many ways, there are no words for a victim to describe what has happened or how to respond. Jessi Bixler's painful and powerful book is a gift to anyone and any family that has suffered from sexual violence even to one member. Jessi Bixler is an author, speaker, marketing business owner and advocate for trauma awareness and survivor support. She brings honesty strength and faith to both her professional work and the story that she shares. Jessi lives in Missouri with her husband Chad and their two children.  

While we hear the news and read the headlines of Fires, Accidents and Disaster, rarely do we understand the day to day, often hour to hour impact on those who serve as our First Responders. Those who hope at times to get a few hours of sleep before the next call. In this show Jim Burneka Jr., draws upon his powerful and revealing new book, Overcoming Tuesday to bring us into his journey - his commitment, his trauma and its impact on his life. Importantly he shares not only the denial of physical and emotional suffering common to First Responders, he brings us up close and personal to his struggle to recover, heal and unlock his resilience. A seasoned host of his own webcast podcast "APS Radio," Jim Burneka is someone you will want to hear. Listen In.

In this show important show, Wesley Davidson, co-author with Dr. Jonathan Tobkes of the book When Your Child is Gay: What You Need to Know, brings her personal parenting experience with her homosexual son as the jumping off point for a broad consideration of handling a child's coming out as homosexual. Drawing upon her examples and those of many parents and their children, she addresses the denial, the fears, the anger, the guilt, the differences of parental responding, the unexpected strengths, the paths and the resolutions. Adding to the important examples is a wealth of professional expertise offered after each chapter by Dr. Jonathan Tobkes, practicing psychiatrist at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell who frames, expands and makes meaning of the journey so many parents and their children take.    

Divorce is heartbreaking and stressful for the whole family—including the kids. But, there are many ways that parents can support their children as they navigate this family transition. From telling the children they will separate, to nesting, and supporting two loving households, to the five stages of divorce grief for children to How to deal with an uncooperative Ex, Oona Metz, author of Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women will discuss some of the most vital ways for parents to help their children through transitioning from one home to two.    Oona Metz, LICSW, CGP is a nationally recognized therapist, writer, and speaker who specializes in treating women navigating divorce. With over thirty years of clinical experience, Oona leads four weekly Divorce Support Groups, and is the founder of The Beacon Group Fellowship which trains mental health clinicians throughout the country to lead divorce support groups. Oona has published essays in Psychotherapy Networker, Cognoscenti, Social Work Voice, Social Work Advocates and other outlets. Her book Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women (Simon & Schuster) will be available in bookstores in January 2026.  She lives near Boston, Massachusetts, with her partner and a handful of pets. Her young adult children have flown the coop but visit often.

"Till Divorce Do Us Part – Coping with Divorce" While there are a little less than 50% of couples divorcing, the United States is still hometo the most divorces. According to the CDC the current nationwide divorce rate is 42%. Well beyond the numbers are the people, the families,  the children, the lawyers, the feelings, losses, trauma and possibilities that may come with divorce. Today we will be considering strategies, steps and the resilience that will help anyone dealing with divorce.   Oona Metz, LICSW, CGP is a nationally recognized therapist, writer, and speaker who specializes in treating women navigating divorce. With over thirty years of clinical experience, Oona leads four weekly Divorce Support Groups, and is the founder of The Beacon Group Fellowship which trains mental health clinicians throughout the country to lead divorce support groups. Oona has published essays in Psychotherapy Networker, Cognoscenti, Social Work Voice, Social Work Advocates and other outlets. Her book Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women (Simon & Schuster) will be available in bookstores in January 2026.  She lives near Boston, Massachusetts, with her partner and a handful of pets. Her young adult children have flown the coop but visit.

In this episode Dr. Deborah Serani, psychologist and author discusses the reality of depression as a mood disorder in later life. Drawing upon her new and comprehensive book " Depression in Later Life: An Essential Guide," she underscores that depression is too often overlooked by those suffering, their families and even at times by their physicians. In the back and forth with host Suzanne Phillips, Dr. Serani provides crucial information and illuminating examples that will be as valuable for health-care professionals as for seniors who don't understand why they are suffering. She will answer questions like: What Is Geriatric Depression? Isn't Depression a normal part of aging? Why is it so often missed or dismissed? What are the steps for proper assessment? What are the treatment options? Are depressed seniors a suicide risk? Adding to this, Dr. Serani considers the power of "conscious aging" as an asset to physical and emotional well-being. This is an important show for all.

From films to novels to real life situations, we have heard the term narcissist and wondered – What are the characterizes a Narcissist?  What does it mean to love a Narcissist? Rarely do we have the opportunity to learn the origins and the differences between Narcissism as a healthy sense of self-esteem and the pathology of someone with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder. In this show, psychologist and psychoanalyst, Dr. Anthony Mazzella joins us to look closer at Narcissism, its origins, ways to understand and ways to cope whether you recognize your own narcissistic behavior or the behavior of the narcissist you love and care about.   Dr. Anthony Mazzella is a psychoanalyst with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate complex personality dynamics. He specializes in psychodynamic treatment, with a focus on narcissistic and borderline presentations, using a deeply attuned, insight-oriented approach. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Mazzella is a faculty member and supervisor, mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals. He's also the creator and host of The Narcissism Decoder, a podcast and video channel that brings complex psychoanalytic ideas to life—making them relatable, practical, and especially relevant to understanding personality disorders and relationships.

Against a reality of cutoffs that impact thousands of employees including 12% of 2.4 million civilian federal workers, others from Wall Street firms and well-known companies etc., psychologist, Dr. Jeffrey Kleinberg draws upon his expertise to consider how to work through "Lay-offs." He validates and considers the interval of shock, numbness, panic, anger, and sometimes identity confusion of facing a lay-off. Dr. Kleinberg examines and invites listeners to recognize, understand and work through the complex trauma of a sudden lay-off. He invites them to believe in the ability of transitioning from victim to effective survivor. Listen in.   Dr. Jeffrey Kleinberg is a Psychologist in Private Practice in Manhattan, as well as a Clinical Assistant Professor, Public Health Graduate Program, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, N.Y.  He is licensed in New York, New Jersey and Florida. He is the Editor (2015), of the prestigious The Wiley-Blackwell Handbook of Group Psychotherapy. (Oxford, UK: Wiley). 

What if you could use 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science? You can. In this show, Dr. Therese Huston returns to Psych Up Live with her new book "Sharp" - a little book that can play a very big role is your everyday success. Across the age spectrum people want to focus better, remember more, handle stress, bias, cope with pain, stay healthy and unlock their full potential. Dr. Huston guides us. She has already done the research and captured what we need to know and do to be more focused and productive often with 10 minute (sometimes 5 minute) strategies. Whether you want to feel more effective at work, with family or in achieving your personal goals- Listen in.   THERESE HUSTON, PH.D., is a cognitive neuroscientist and Faculty Development Consultant at Seattle University. She was the founding director of the university's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and is now a consultant for its Center for Faculty Development. Therese is the author of previous books: Let's Talk: Make Effective Feedback Your Superpower; How Women Decide; and Teaching What You Don't Know. She has been interviewed on Harpers Bazaar and Goop for Let's Talk, and has written for TIME, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review and The Guardian. Therese has led workshops and presentations to Fortune 500 companies, start-ups and universities world-wide. She now lives in Seattle with her husband and their dog.

Maya Angelou tells us that " There is no greater agony than bearing an untold storyVinnie Kinsella's life revolves around stories. Over the years, he has been a featured storyteller and reader at live shows including The Mystery Box, 7 Deadly Sins, and Valid. As the owner of Paper Chain Book Publishing Services—which provides editing, book design, and publication management services for independent authors and publishers—he is passionate about helping writers share their stories with the world. Vinnie is a popular presenter at writing and publishing workshops both big and small throughout the Pacific Northwest. He lives in the famously weird city of Portland, Oregon, with his husband and their pampered dog.   inside you."  Our show today is going to bring you up close and personal to the stories of men who struggled for half a life-time daring to find themselves and own and tell their stories. The power of this theme will be illuminated by our guest Vinnie Kinsella, a professional storyteller and reader, performer and the editor of the powerful book, Fashionably Late, Gay, Bi & Trans Men Who Came Out Late in Life.  Your story may be very different. If you have ever wondered if you should go public with your story – you will want to hear our guest Vinnie Kinsella.   Vinnie Kinsella's life revolves around stories. Over the years, he has been a featured storyteller and reader at live shows including The Mystery Box, 7 Deadly Sins, and Valid. As the owner of Paper Chain Book Publishing Services—which provides editing, book design, and publication management services for independent authors and publishers—he is passionate about helping writers share their stories with the world. Vinnie is a popular presenter at writing and publishing workshops both big and small throughout the Pacific Northwest. He lives in the famously weird city of Portland, Oregon, with his husband and their pampered dog.    

What if you could use 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science? You can. In this show, Dr. Therese Huston returns to Psych Up Live with her new book "Sharp" - a little book that can play a very big role is your everyday success. Across the age spectrum people want to focus better, remember more, handle stress, bias, cope with pain, stay healthy and unlock their full potential. Dr. Huston guides us. She has already done the research and captured what we need to know and do to be more focused and productive often with 10 minute (sometimes 5 minute) strategies. Whether you want to feel more effective at work, with family or in achieving your personal goals- Listen in.   THERESE HUSTON, PH.D., is a cognitive neuroscientist and Faculty Development Consultant at Seattle University. She was the founding director of the university's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and is now a consultant for its Center for Faculty Development. Therese is the author of previous books: Let's Talk: Make Effective Feedback Your Superpower; How Women Decide; and Teaching What You Don't Know. She has been interviewed on Harpers Bazaar and Goop for Let's Talk, and has written for TIME, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review and The Guardian. Therese has led workshops and presentations to Fortune 500 companies, start-ups and universities world-wide. She now lives in Seattle with her husband and their dog.

Whether you are newly married, a middle aged couple, the identified In-Laws or the bewildered Out-Laws of an expanded family, you need to hear this show. In it, psychologist and author Dr. Geoffrey Greif draws upon his new and acclaimed book written with Dr. Michael Woolley, " In-law Relationships: Mothers, Daughters, Fathers, and Sons." Dr. Greif shares research using interviews and surveys with a total of 1,500 people to illuminate why some in-laws connect and others clash and even crash. He considers the impact of interfaith, interracial, gay and lesbian couples on in-law relationships. He examines the validity of the negative cultural stereotype of mothers-in-law and reports what mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law say. He considers what happens that is different in the relationships between male in-laws and overall offers important strategies for improving any in-law relationship.

While most think of immigration as the influx of people seeking shelter, survival and a livelihood in a land of opportunities, this story is different. Today you will hear what unfolded when in the face of a shortage of physicians in the US in the late 60's President Lyndon Johnson passed the Hart-Cellar Act which had a special provision, to supplement the physician shortage with a cadre of foreign medical graduates from South Asia and the Philippines to fill the vacancies in urban and rural centers. In the first 10 years 75,000 came. This show will bring you up close and personal to their commitment, their connections with communities, their contributions and their struggle to be recognized. Guest Eram Alam Eram Alam is an associate professor in the Department of History of Science at Harvard University. She specializes in the history of medicine, with a particular emphasis on globalization, race, migration and health during the twentieth century.  

From films to novels to real life situations, we have heard the term narcissist and wondered – What are the characterizes a Narcissist?  What does it mean to love a Narcissist? Rarely do we have the opportunity to learn the origins and the differences between Narcissism as a healthy sense of self-esteem and the pathology of someone with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder. In this show, psychologist and psychoanalyst, Dr. Anthony Mazzella joins us to look closer at Narcissism, its origins, ways to understand and ways to cope whether you recognize your own narcissistic behavior or the behavior of the narcissist you love and care about.   Dr. Anthony Mazzella is a psychoanalyst with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate complex personality dynamics. He specializes in psychodynamic treatment, with a focus on narcissistic and borderline presentations, using a deeply attuned, insight-oriented approach. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Mazzella is a faculty member and supervisor, mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals. He's also the creator and host of The Narcissism Decoder, a podcast and video channel that brings complex psychoanalytic ideas to life—making them relatable, practical, and especially relevant to understanding personality disorders and relationships.    

In this show relationship experts Dr. Judith Wright and Dr. Bob Wright discuss their new and interesting book, The Heart of the Fight: A Couple's Guide to 15 Common Fights, What They Really Mean & How They Can Bring You Closer. Dispelling many of the common myths of what you need to make a relationship work, these experts suggest that conflict is a couple's secret weapon for coming closer but you need to know how to fight and what to fight for. In a fascinating way they discuss the Art of the Argument: Six Skills for Battling to Bliss and the Fifteen Fights That Make or Break Your Relationship. From a closer look at fights like The Blame Game to You're Just Like Your Mother/Father, you will rethink the how and why of fighting in relationships. Ultimately this is a show that will expand the potential of your relationship.

This show is for men and everyone who loves them. In it, psychotherapist, James Hawes draws upon his years of clinical experience with men and his book, The Secret Lives of Men: Ten Keys to Unlock the Mystery, to discuss the social and cultural norms that keep men trapped with feelings like unvoiced hurt, sadness, fear and shame. In his presentation he considers topics like: Feelings as a Foreign Language, Vulnerability Masked as Anger, Sex as Intimacy and Performance as the Source of Self Esteem. As you will hear in his examples and strategies for therapeutic change, James Hawes has a personal and powerful respect for men's capacity to expand their emotional well-being. Listen in.

The amount of stress worldwide is at an all-time high as the Corona Virus spreads. Self-Care and understanding alternative ways of easing pain are important. This show takes a close look at the varied forms of Alternative Medicine from Energy Medicine, Acupuncture, Chiropractic to religious belief, embraced by millions seeking relief for chronic pain, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia etc. Our guest author, Melanie Warner draws upon her important new book, The Magic Feather Effect: The Science of Alternative Medicine and the Surprising Power of Belief, to invite us into a personal research journey which involves her meeting with clinicians, scientists, and healers world-wide, to answer questions like- Why have these Alternative Medicines become so popular? Why do some people report dramatic relief while others don't? Can the results be subject to scientific proof? Is it the placebo effect? Do we need to recognize and use the surprising system of self-healing that belongs to us.

Violence against women is a global health issue. The threats women face today are unapparelled and more dangerous than ever before. When you add the toxic cocktail of technology and social media the danger increases. In this show, former Deputy Sheriff, Joy Farrow and Tech Engineer and trauma survivor Laura Frombach will discuss how women can avoid being victims of violence on many levels. They will discuss and exemplify how women can develop "A Safety Intuition for Defensive Living", become " Persuasion Proof," " Take a safe walk or a run," Be aware of "Online Dating – Red Flags," Travel "Solo and Safe," handle "The SOS Situation," and more. What you hear may increase your anxiety but it will empower you in many ways. Women and everyone who loves them should hear this show.

Divorce is heartbreaking and stressful for the whole family—including the kids. But, there are many ways that parents can support their children as they navigate this family transition. From telling the children they will separate, to nesting, and supporting two loving households, to the five stages of divorce grief for children to How to deal with an uncooperative Ex, Oona Metz, author of Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women will discuss some of the most vital ways for parents to help their children through transitioning from one home to two.      Oona Metz, LICSW, CGP is a nationally recognized therapist, writer, and speaker who specializes in treating women navigating divorce. With over thirty years of clinical experience, Oona leads four weekly Divorce Support Groups, and is the founder of The Beacon Group Fellowship which trains mental health clinicians throughout the country to lead divorce support groups. Oona has published essays in Psychotherapy Networker, Cognoscenti, Social Work Voice, Social Work Advocates and other outlets. Her book Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women (Simon & Schuster) will be available in bookstores in January 2026.  She lives near Boston, Massachusetts, with her partner and a handful of pets. Her young adult children have flown the coop but visit often.

In her new and important book " Never Say Never- Never Say Always," Susan Warner invites us to take the journey no one wants to take, but too many have faced. Susan takes us from a family love story to the devastating losses of a son and a spouse within 6 months. She puts words to the insider story of traumatic loss in a way that will touches anyone who has suffered loss. As you will hear in daily details, relationships with family and friends, tears in a closet, emptiness in a house, the difficulty of eating alone, the enduring presence of her son and spouse and the question of ever loving again– she lets us in. Susan shares a journey to acceptance, pushing on and not being defined by societal norms. It is a journey of self-discovery, self-actualization and ultimately working to live her best life. This is a show about loss, possibility and love.

There are few people who have been injured or wronged by another who don't think about and want to mollify their psychic pain with revenge. In this episode, Dr. Steven Berglas, professor, psychotherapist, research scientist and executive coach invites us to consider " Taking Revenge – A Better Way." The author of award winning books, 70 articles and journal reports on cures of self-defeating behavior, Dr. Berglas discusses the personal cost of angry retaliation and the power of redirecting the brain's reaction to danger. With a wealth of professional experience and powerful examples, Dr. Berglas discusses the ways in which revenge seeking fuels rumination, increased anger, isolation, physical and emotional pain. It traps us and intensifies the original assault. Dr. Berglas demonstrates how to cope with the psychic pain that prompts revenge with a shift of mindset to achievement striving, to the possible, to missions that undue atrocity, to healing and to growth.

This Show offers a powerful and eye-opening consideration of medical care for marginalized people. Whether from a patient's perspective or the perspective of those who serve as medical caregivers, you will find Dr. Dean David Schillinger's TELLTALE HEARTS to be an extraordinary book and Dr. Schillinger to be an extraordinary person. What Dr. Schillinger offers is the gift of his own story in tandem with the unexpected, tragic, impressive and heart-breaking stories of his patients. Both sets of stories offer a glimpse of how industrialized medical systems can be dangerous for patients who are misunderstood, stereotyped and overlooked and for doctors who are struggling with burn-out, bias and at times frustration and despair. What Dr. Schillinger believes, and shares is the power of the patient's narrative. He exemplifies that when a patient is invited to be known, to tell their story, to be seen and respected– treatment and healing often become possible. Dr. Schillinger's description of his journey and his relationship with patients who dare to share and be known is medically and socially invaluable.

While we hear the news and read the headlines of Fires, Accidents and Disaster, rarely do we understand the day to day, often hour to hour impact on those who serve as our First Responders. Those who hope at times to get a few hours of sleep before the next call. In this show Jim Burneka Jr., draws upon his powerful and revealing new book, Overcoming Tuesday to bring us into his journey - his commitment, his trauma and its impact on his life. Importantly he shares not only the denial of physical and emotional suffering common to First Responders, he brings us up close and personal to his struggle to recover, heal and unlock his resilience. A seasoned host of his own webcast podcast "APS Radio," Jim Burneka is someone you will want to hear. Listen In.