Think Good Podcast

In this special episode, Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and Ankur Varma, LCPC, take a trip down memory lane to share the "origin story" of their friendship, their careers, and the birth of Think Good Therapy.From growing up as some of the only Brown kids in a predominantly white Cincinnati suburb to navigating the challenges of being Muslim and Hindu in a post-9/11 world, Tayeba and Ankur discuss how their shared cultural roots eventually brought them together as colleagues and best friends in Chicago.In this episode, we dive into:The "Too Cool" High School Days: Why they weren't actually friends in high school (and who was the bigger dork).Navigating Identity: The impact of growing up in the Midwest and the specific challenges of 2001 and 2016 on the South Asian community.The "Iowa Street" Coincidence: How a random text message solidified their move to Chicago.Breaking the "Blank Slate" Rule: Why they believe strategic self-disclosure is the key to humanizing therapy.The Mission of TGT: How their uphill battles with burnout and cultural gaps in mental health led to the creation of Think Good Therapy and Brown Man Therapy.Whether you’re a fellow clinician, a client, or just someone navigating your own cultural identity, join us for a candid conversation about building a business rooted in nourishment, representation, and real human connection.

In this episode of the Think Good podcast, Ankur Varma, LCPC, and Dr. Tayeba Shaikh explore the complex integration of AI into the mental health landscape. They examine how technology is reshaping the therapeutic experience, from clients using chatbots for 2:00 AM panic attacks to the administrative "heavy lifting" for practitioners.The hosts dive deep into the critical balance between digital convenience and human necessity, discussing:The Safety Gap: Analyzing tragic cases where AI failed as a crisis intervention tool.Cognitive Impacts: Reviewing research on how "cognitive offloading" to AI may lead to neural atrophy and decreased critical thinking.The Empathy Illusion: Why AI’s ability to mimic validation lacks the essential human element of "shared suffering".Clinical Guardrails: How to maintain boundaries and use AI as a "springboard" for reflection rather than a replacement for professional care.Whether you're a clinician or a curious user, learn why "talking about the bot" with trusted humans is the most important tool for navigating this new era.

In this episode of the Think Good Podcast, Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and Ankur Varma, LCPC discuss the HBO show 'Heated Rivalry,' which explores the complex love story between two queer hockey players. They delve into themes of identity, representation, and the impact of family dynamics on the characters' lives. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability and emotional connection in relationships, particularly among men, and reflects on the cultural and psychological implications of the show. The hosts emphasize the need for more representation in media and the significance of healthy love in a world filled with challenges.#Heated Rivalry #LGBTQ #sports #mentalhealth #masculinity #identity #vulnerability

In their first episode of 2026 of the ThinkGoodPodcast, hosts Ankur Varma, LCPC and Dr. Tayeba Shaikh delve into the beloved series 'Stranger Things,' reflecting on its themes and the psychological undertones that resonate with viewers. They explore how the show has impacted their lives over the past decade, emphasizing nostalgia and the portrayal of childhood friendships. The conversation highlights the growth of the characters, particularly the young actors, and the show's ability to address complex issues such as trauma, grief, and mental health through its narrative and character arcs. Ankur and Dr. Shaikh also discuss the significance of community and support in overcoming personal struggles, drawing parallels between the characters' experiences and real-life challenges.#StrangerThings #mental health#nostalgia#trauma#friendship#psychologicalthemes#characterdevelopment

Join Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and Ankur Varma, LCPC, as they dive into the pervasive TikTok diagnosis epidemic and the trend of individuals, particularly Gen Zers (aged 18-28), coming into therapy with self-diagnosed mental health conditions like OCD, autism, or borderline personality disorder, often based on content from TikTok and other social media.Learn about the complex nature of this phenomenon:The Problem with "Informal" Diagnoses: The hosts discuss how clients are receiving "informal" diagnoses from TikTok, where algorithms inundate users with videos that affirm and validate a specific diagnosis. The problem is that much of the mental health advice on TikTok is not from clinicians, and one study found that roughly 83% of it is misleading.Pros and Cons of Social Media: While social media helps to normalize mental health conversations and connect people, reducing feelings of isolation, it also presents challenges like the oversimplification of complex conditions like panic disorder or bipolar disorder, which can potentially delay actual care from a professional.Clinical Approach to Diagnosis: The therapists explain that a proper mental health diagnosis requires time and clinical judgment. They look for patterns over time, consistency across settings, and functional impact—something that can be missed on social media. They also emphasize the need to weed through symptoms that may actually be related to trauma, anxiety, or stress rather than an underlying disorder.Reframing the Conversation: Learn how clinicians can embrace a client's social media interest as a sign of motivation, gently guiding them from a self-diagnosis to a more accurate understanding of their experience. The key takeaway is to use social media as a first step for reflection, but then bring that information to a professional for guidance and treatment.Tune in to understand how clinicians and individuals can navigate this new landscape of digital mental health information.

Welcome back to the Think Good Podcast! In this powerful episode, hosts Ankur Varma, LCPC, and Dr. Tayeba Shaikh dive into the intense, high-stakes world of the HBO medical drama, "The Pitt".If you've watched the show—which follows a single, grueling 15-hour shift in an underfunded ER—you know it's a raw and realistic portrayal of frontline medicine. But what is the true psychological cost of working in a constant state of crisis?Join Ankur and Dr. Shaikh as they use the show's brilliant narrative structure and complex characters to unpack crucial themes relevant to all high-pressure careers:The Reality of Burnout: Exploring the spectrum of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion—from new residents feeling "flooded" to veteran doctors running on chronic, unmanaged stress.Secondary Trauma and PTSD: A deep look at how repeated exposure to violence, grief, and loss impacts medical professionals, touching on topics like flashbacks, panic, and the lasting effects of the COVID era.The Stigma of Seeking Help: Discussing the enormous pressure and professional risk that prevents many providers from getting the mental health support they desperately need.Transitioning Out of Crisis: Analyzing the challenges of shifting from high-adrenaline "survival mode" back to a personal life, and what happens when an entire identity is built around the intensity of work.This is more than a TV show review—it's an essential conversation about the necessity of support for our caregivers. Tune in to understand the deep human connection between work, identity, and mental health, and why we all need to be talking about the well-being of our providers.

Can a standup special change the conversation around men's mental health? We think so.Join clinical psychologist Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and men's mental health specialist Ankur Varma, LCPC as they review Bill Burr's latest special. They break down the comedian's surprising evolution and his honest revelations about grief, trauma, and depression—all while keeping his signature East Coast edge.Ankur and Tayeba discuss the societal pressure on men to hide their feelings, the therapeutic power of humor, and why therapists use the Feelings Wheel to help clients move beyond just feeling "angry or fine" into the full spectrum of human emotion. A deep, relatable, and funny dive into masculinity, vulnerability, and emotional expression.Mentioned: Bill Burr's standup special (Drop Dead Years / Live at Red Rocks), Terry Gross's Fresh Air interview, and the therapeutic concept of the Feelings Wheel.

The NFL is a multi-billion dollar business, but what is the true cost to the players? Clinical psychologist Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and Ankur Varma, LCPC dive into the complicated relationship Americans have with their favorite sport. From the emotional toll of being a loyal (and often disappointed) Bengals fan, to the deep psychological and physical damage of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). They discuss the infamous book League of Denial, the culture of masculinity in sports, the long-term effects of TBIs, and what it truly means to play through the pain.

Join Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and Ankur Varma, LCPC, on the ThinkGoodPodcast as they explore the transformative power of positive psychology, drawing insights from Martin Seligman's influential book, Flourish. This episode delves beyond the superficial idea of "being happy" to uncover the scientific study of human strengths, positive emotions, and virtues. Discover how Seligman's PERMA model provides a roadmap for a more fulfilling life, focusing on Positive Emotions, Engagement (Flow state), Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Dr. Shaikh and Ankur Varma discuss the shift from a deficit-based mental health model to a strength-based approach , offering practical ways to incorporate "learned optimism" into your daily life. Learn actionable strategies, including the powerful impact of gratitude exercises , and gain a fresh perspective on cultivating well-being even amidst life's challenges.

Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and Ankur Varma, LCPC, dive into the Apple TV show "Shrinking," created by Bill Lawrence (known for "Scrubs" and "Ted Lasso"). They explore how "Shrinking" portrays therapy, focusing on lead character Jimmy's unconventional "psychological vigilante" approach to his clients, which deviates from traditional therapeutic practices. Dr. Shaikh and Ankur Varma delve into the ethical considerations of therapy, contrasting Jimmy's methods with the conventional role of therapists, who typically avoid giving direct advice and empower clients to find their own solutions.A significant part of the conversation revolves around therapist self-disclosure. The hosts highlight how "Shrinking" humanizes therapists by showing their personal lives and struggles, a rare depiction in media. Dr. Shaikh and Ankur Varma discuss the benefits of appropriate self-disclosure in building rapport and trust, especially in multicultural counseling where shared identities and experiences can enhance connection. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on self-disclosure in therapy is also touched upon, as remote sessions inadvertently offered glimpses into therapists' and clients' personal lives.Ultimately, the podcast praises "Shrinking" for normalizing therapy by showcasing diverse client issues and demonstrating that therapy can benefit anyone navigating life's challenges. Dr. Shaikh and Ankur Varma encourage listeners to watch the show for its humor, emotional depth, and realistic portrayal of the therapeutic process.

The "ThinkGoodPodcast" is hosted by clinical psychologist Dr. Tayeba Shaikh and clinical counselor Ankur Varma. In this episode, they dive into the timely topic of airplane anxiety, exploring how recent plane incidents and widespread media coverage have heightened fears around flying.Dr. Shaikh and Varma explain anxiety as a combination of physiological changes and intrusive "what if" thoughts, distinguishing between general and situational anxiety. They discuss how anxiety can be a motivator, but also how it can escalate to panic attacks if unmanaged.Tune in as they share personal anecdotes and professional insights on coping strategies for anxiety, particularly in the context of flying. Learn about simple yet powerful techniques like breathwork , the importance of sensory input and personal rituals , and the comfort that comes from planning and understanding what you can control. They also highlight the surprisingly low statistics for plane accidents, stating that out of approximately 40.6 million flights worldwide last year, there were only 46 accidents, reminding listeners that flying is statistically very safe. This episode offers valuable self-awareness and practical tips to help you manage anxiety and find comfort in your daily life and travels.

Tayeba Shaikh, PsyD, and Ankur Varma, LCPC, unpack Severance Season 2 on the ThinkGoodPodcast! We dive into Adam Scott’s Mark Scout, exploring the psychological layers of grief, trauma, and the ethics of severing work from personal life. From Lumen Industries’ mysteries to Ben Stiller and Dan Erickson’s brilliant storytelling, we discuss why this sci-fi thriller captivates. Spoiler alert: we touch on key moments, so watch both seasons first! What do you think of the severance concept? Drop your thoughts below! Subscribe for more therapist-led talks on TV, movies, books, and life.#severancetvshow #appletv #thinkgoodtherapy #thinkgoodpodcast #mentalhealth #grief #trauma