Therapists Say

In this episode of Therapists Say Mel, Liz and Berry dive into alternate selves. The versions of us shaped by the paths we took and the ones we didn’t. From small choices to life-altering moments, we explore how our decisions define who we are today, while honoring who we could have been.

In this episode, Mel and Berry explore the art of healthy arguing in relationships, sharing insights from their experiences and key relationship research. They discuss emotional needs, conflict resolution, and practical strategies to strengthen partnerships.

In this episode of Therapists Say, Mel, Liz, and Berry break down the pros, cons, and real-life dynamics of being in a relationship with a therapist. They mix personal experiences with honest feedback from partners, exploring emotional intelligence, communication and blind spots. They also unpack what it is actually like when therapy skills show up at home.

Join Liz, Mel, and Berry as they explore the complex topics of grief, death, and how personal experiences shape our understanding of mortality. They delve into cultural, psychological, and personal perspectives on death and grieving processes, offering insights and humor along the way.

In this episode, Liz, Mel, and Berry dive into the journey of forgiveness, resentment, and rebuilding after relationship wounds. Together, they unpack the stages of forgiveness, practical tools like prayer and Metta meditation, and the role of boundaries, trust, and self-awareness in true healing and personal growth. The conversation explores how deep hurt can either harden us or transform us and what it takes to choose growth.Disclaimer: Our microphones failed us during this recording, so the audio isn’t as crisp as usual. We appreciate your patience and promise the conversation is still worth the listen. 💛

In this episode, hosts Liz, Mel and Berry discuss the significance of Valentine's Day, exploring its history, the nature of love, and the difference between romance and emotional validation. They delve into the concepts of codependency and attachment styles, examining how these dynamics play out in relationships. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding love as a choice and an action rather than just a feeling, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences and expectations surrounding love and relationships.

In this episode of Therapist Say, hosts Mel, Liz and Berry explore the significance of silence in therapy, personal interactions, and a discussion on the book 'The Silent Patient' which delves into emotional expression and the impact of silence.

In this episode of Therapist Say hosts Mel, Liz, and Berry engage in a light-hearted yet insightful discussion about the challenges of change, particularly around New Year's resolutions. They reflect on personal experiences with relationships, the pressures of the holiday season, and the psychological aspects of making and maintaining resolutions. The conversation touches on the importance of accountability, the myth of waiting for the 'right time' to make changes, and the significance of manageable goals. They also share practical strategies for sustaining change, emphasizing that discipline often outweighs motivation in achieving personal goals.

In this episode, Mel, Liz and Berry explore the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the emotional challenges surrounding breakups during the holiday season. They discuss the societal pressures to maintain relationships for the sake of the holidays, the psychological implications of waiting to end a relationship, and the importance of self-reflection in making relationship decisions. The conversation also touches on the broader discussion on how our past experiences shape our present choices.

In this festive episode, the hosts engage in light-hearted banter about holiday traditions, gift exchanges, and the psychological aspects of happiness. They explore the myths surrounding holiday magic, the impact of consumerism on happiness, and the significance of thoughtful gift-giving. The conversation highlights the complexities of holiday experiences, including the pressures of creating magical moments and the emotional weight of memories associated with the season.

In this episode of Therapists Say, Mel, Liz and Berry discuss various myths about happiness, the importance of relationships, and how to create happiness in daily life. They also share personal experiences and insights on mindfulness and gratitude. The conversation touches on the growth of their podcast and audience engagement, while also reflecting on their own journeys towards happiness.

In this episode of Therapist Say, hosts Mel, Liz, and Berry kick off Season Three by discussing psychological terms and their correct usage. They explore common misconceptions surrounding terms like narcissism, gaslighting, love bombing, and trauma bonding, emphasizing the importance of understanding these concepts accurately. The conversation highlights how these terms are often misapplied in everyday discussions, particularly in the context of relationships and emotional abuse. The hosts aim to educate listeners on the nuances of these psychological concepts, encouraging a more informed dialogue around mental health and interpersonal dynamics.

In this conversation, Liz, Mel and Berry explore the complexities of emotional intimacy in relationships, the transformative impact of therapy on personal growth, the dynamics of communication styles during conflicts, and the interplay between genetics and environment in shaping intelligence. They delve into how therapists navigate these themes in their personal and professional lives, offering insights and reflections on their experiences.

In this episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about astrology, personality tests, and the complexities of family dynamics. They explore the lack of scientific evidence surrounding astrology, share personal anecdotes about their family roles, and reflect on the challenges of breaking free from these roles. The conversation delves into the impact of birth order on personality and relationships, emphasizing the unconscious nature of these dynamics and the difficulty of change.

In this episode of Therapist's Say, hosts Mel, Liz, and Berry delve into the complexities of relationships, exploring the age-old question of whether opposites attract or if birds of a feather flock together. They reflect on their therapeutic styles, personal experiences, and the dynamics of attraction, discussing how similarities and differences play a crucial role in relationship longevity. The conversation also touches on the unconscious motivations behind attraction and the importance of understanding one's partner through a more conscious lens.

In this episode of Therapist Say, hosts Mel, Liz and Berry engage in a lively discussion about the influence of personality tests on therapeutic approaches. The conversation delves into the nuances of different therapeutic styles and how personality traits shape the way therapists conceptualize and engage with clients. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of authenticity in therapy and the evolving nature of personal and professional identities.

In this episode of Therapists Say, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about relationships, family dynamics, and the complexities of sociopathy and psychopathy. They explore the differences between clinical definitions and pop culture portrayals, the impact of technology on human interaction, and the importance of community and empathy in society. The conversation also touches on personality traits related to antisocial behavior and the hosts' personal experiences and reflections on these topics.Chapters00:00 Feedback and Family Dynamics02:41 Shrink Wrap and Super Fan Stickers05:31 Dating and Trust Issues06:35 Meet and Greet Plans09:19 Sociopathy vs. Psychopathy12:13 Understanding Antisocial Personality Disorder14:45 The Role of Empathy in Sociopathy17:03 Pop Culture vs. Clinical Definitions19:28 Personal Reflections on Personality Disorders28:55 Exploring Dark Thoughts and Personality Disorders33:27 The Complexity of Antisocial Personality Disorder39:04 The Impact of Technology on Community and Connection50:49 Striving for Peace and Love in a Self-Centered World

SummaryIn this episode of Therapy Say, hosts Mel, Liz, and Berry explore various themes surrounding relationships, personal growth, and family dynamics. They discuss the significance of feedback in relationships, the meaning behind personal tattoos, and the complexities of parenting. The conversation delves into the concept of love at first sight, questioning its validity and exploring the idea of arranged marriages and their potential for love and happiness. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of self-disclosure, communication, and continuous effort in maintaining healthy relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup00:36 Naming the Segment: A Collaborative Effort06:49 The Tattoo Story: Personal Growth and Meaning07:48 Follow-Up on Previous Episodes: Family Dynamics and Bullying21:17 The Big Question: Love at First Sight?33:46 Exploring Love at First Sight40:07 The Psychology of Attraction47:15 Defining Love and Infatuation52:28 The Concept of Soulmates58:17 Arranged Marriages and Love01:06:12 riverside_mels_outro final _ jul 7, 2025 001_epi_with berry.wav

In this episode of Therapist's Say, hosts Mel, Liz, and Barry engage in a lively discussion that covers a range of topics from personal anecdotes to psychological insights. They explore the concept of 'Correction Corner', share experiences from their classes, and delve into the interpretations of dreams provided by students. The conversation shifts to self-disclosure, where they reflect on their personal lives and guilty pleasures, particularly focusing on the psychology behind these pleasures. The hosts also discuss the fascination with morbid topics and how family dynamics influence their interactions. The episode wraps up with reflections on their roles as therapists and the importance of being relatable to their audience.Keywordstherapy, self-disclosure, guilty pleasures, dream interpretation, family dynamics, psychology, entertainment, morbid curiosity, personal insights, podcastSummaryIn this episode of Therapist's Say, hosts Mel, Liz, and Barry engage in a lively discussion that covers a range of topics from personal anecdotes to psychological insights. They explore the concept of 'Correction Corner', share experiences from their classes, and delve into the interpretations of dreams provided by students. The conversation shifts to self-disclosure, where they reflect on their personal lives and guilty pleasures, particularly focusing on the psychology behind these pleasures. The hosts also discuss the fascination with morbid topics and how family dynamics influence their interactions. The episode wraps up with reflections on their roles as therapists and the importance of being relatable to their audience.TakeawaysSelf-disclosure can enhance the therapeutic relationship.Guilty pleasures often serve as a form of escapism.Dream interpretations can reveal deeper insights about individuals.Family dynamics play a significant role in personal behavior.Morbid curiosity is a natural human tendency.Entertainment preferences can reflect psychological needs.Engaging in humor can foster connection among hosts.The importance of audience engagement in podcasting.Understanding one's own biases can improve therapy practice.Therapists are also human and have their own struggles. TitlesExploring the Depths of TherapyGuilty Pleasures and Psychological InsightsSound bites"I think we should have just a little bit""I think we all need escapes""I think it just resonates with me a lot"Chapters00:00 Podcast Structure and Corrections07:05 Dream Interpretations and Insights11:39 Starbucks Story and Self-Image13:22 Gender Roles and Leadership15:21 Listener Engagement and Podcast Naming17:28 Merchandise and Fundraising for Therapy20:06 Guilty Pleasures and Psychological Attraction28:50 Parasocial Relationships and Celebrity Culture34:32 Morbid Curiosity and Fascination with Crime36:37 Confronting Fear and Death38:54 Guilty Pleasures: Murder and Fantasy42:57 The Need for Cognitive Closure44:02 Childhood Dynamics and Family Systems50:08 The Complexity of Relationships59:13 Vulnerability and Self-Disclosure

In this episode, the hosts engage in a candid discussion about emotional readiness for relationships, the healing process after breakups, and the various coping mechanisms people employ. They explore the complexities of judgment in relationships and the importance of self-awareness. The conversation delves into the idea that healing is a personal journey and that individuals often do their best with the resources they have. The hosts share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for honesty and understanding in navigating relationships and emotional health.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Correction Corner03:41 Exploring Emotional Readiness for Relationships06:25 The Impact of Past Relationships on New Ones07:06 Judgment and Healing in Relationships14:00 The Role of Relationships in Personal Growth19:37 Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms After Breakups20:29 Navigating Post-Breakup Friendships23:13 The Complexity of Breakup Emotions28:21 Coping Mechanisms After Heartbreak34:11 The Role of Self-Reflection in Healing36:34 Finding Solitude and Self-Acceptance46:45 Relationships and Recovery: A Delicate Balance

In this episode, the hosts engage in a light-hearted yet profound discussion about dreams, personal experiences, and the dynamics of their relationships. They explore the significance of dreams, particularly nightmares, and how they reflect underlying anxieties and fears. The conversation shifts to the importance of silent retreats and self-reflection, culminating in a humorous yet insightful analysis of a dream involving Michael Bublé, which serves as a metaphor for joy, romance, and the balance of masculine and feminine energies in their lives.

In this episode of Therapist Say, hosts Mel, Liz, and Barry delve into the complexities of attachment theory, exploring how our early experiences with caregivers shape our attachment styles. They discuss the different types of attachment styles, the impact of personal relationships on these styles, and how anxiety from childhood can influence adult relationships. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of sexual relationships and the importance of communication between partners. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights, making the topic relatable and engaging for listeners.Text Me Back (It’s My Attachment Style)

In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of therapy, including the potential role of AI therapists, the importance of human connection, and the fears clients have about judgment. They explore how technology impacts mental health, the risks and benefits of psychedelics in therapy, and how therapeutic approaches have evolved over time. The conversation also touches on the philosophical question of free will and how much control we truly have over our decisions.

In this episode of 'Therapists Say', hosts Liz and Mel reconnect with their former professor William Berry after a six-month hiatus. They discuss the evolving landscape of therapy, particularly the impact of AI, the importance of existential psychology and mindfulness, and the dynamics of gender roles in relationships. The conversation delves into how emotional needs play a crucial role in therapy and personal relationships, highlighting the balance between traditional roles and modern expectations. The episode is rich with insights on therapy, personal growth, and the complexities of human connection.

In this episode, hosts Liz and Mel engage in a profound discussion about the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among first responders. They are joined by Laz, a police officer, and Carolyn, the founder of the First Alarm Foundation, who share personal experiences and insights from a survey conducted with over 500 first responders. The conversation highlights the cultural barriers that prevent open discussions about mental health, the urgent need for support systems, and the alarming statistics regarding mental health issues in this community. The episode emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma, providing adequate mental health resources, and fostering a culture of openness and support for first responders.

The conversation explores the impact of early childhood experiences on adolescent development, focusing on the concept of complex trauma and its effects on attachment, relational dynamics, and emotional regulation. It delves into the challenges of raising preteens and teenagers, addressing the balance between setting boundaries and fostering emotional connection. The discussion also highlights the importance of authenticity and individuation in adolescent development. The conversation delves into the impact of childhood experiences on parenting, the role of guilt and self-criticism, and the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in relationships. It explores the concept of complex trauma and its influence on parenting styles and emotional responses. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection, emotional processing, and seeking support to break free from harmful patterns and create healthier relationships.