Convos from the Couch by LifeStance Health

LifeStance psychiatrist Dr. Kenya Windley and psychologist and author Dr. Eugene Carroccia join us for a grounded, eye‑opening conversation about one of the most overlooked mental health tools: sleep. Together, they explore why sleep is often the first thing people sacrifice and how deeply it influences emotional regulation, focus, mood, and overall well‑being. Dr. Windley shares her clinical perspective on the role sleep plays in conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD, while Dr. Carroccia breaks down research showing how even small increases in sleep duration can improve attention, learning, and day‑to‑day functioning.   The discussion also includes practical, realistic ways to help patients build sustainable sleep hygiene habits, from creating a consistent wind‑down routine to reducing screen time and understanding how melatonin and circadian rhythms work. Whether you're a clinician, a parent, or someone trying to improve your own sleep, this conversation offers compassionate guidance you can start using today.   Join the conversation and learn how prioritizing rest can be a simple but powerful step toward better mental health.

In this episode, host Nicholette Leanza is joined by co-host and Public Relations Manager Samantha Miller, along with LifeStance therapists Harley Rubin and Khannah (Han) Wetmore, to unpack the emotional impact of the HBO Max series Heated Rivalry—and why it has struck such a chord with viewers. Together, the group explores the complex relationship between characters Shane and Ilya, examining how the series portrays queer love with nuance, vulnerability, and emotional depth. The conversation touches on themes such as internalized homophobia, toxic masculinity in sports culture, and the importance of authentic representation—including discussions around autistic identity and the power of seeing intimacy and connection depicted with honesty and care. The team also reflects on the passionate fan community that has formed around the show and why certain storylines feel so relatable and meaningful to audiences. From communication and emotional safety to identity and belonging, this episode highlights how storytelling can mirror real-life experiences and open the door to deeper conversations about mental health and relationships. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Heated Rivalry or simply curious about the psychology behind stories that resonate deeply, tune in for a thoughtful discussion on the emotional themes, character dynamics, and moments that have made this series so compelling.

In this special episode of Convos from the Couch, we chat with Olympic diver and author Cassidy Krug to explore what really happens after life’s biggest moments. Joined by former fellow diver and Senior Growth Marketing Manager McKenze Rogers, Cassidy opens up about her journey from elite athlete to writer, parent, and someone continually learning to navigate change. Together, they talk about the emotional realities of transition — the uncertainty and the “murk” that often follows major milestones. Cassidy shares insights from her book Resurface, including what she discovered while interviewing dozens of people about the turning points in their own lives. From Olympians and cancer survivors to those redefining themselves after career shifts, she explains how shared themes emerge across very different experiences. Listeners will hear practical ways to move through change with compassion, from embracing vulnerability to giving yourself permission to grieve what you’ve left behind. Cassidy also offers approachable tools — like novelty weeks, reframing failure, and seeking connection through informational conversations — that can help anyone feel less alone in their next chapter.   Learn more about Cassidy's book Resurface: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/761752/resurface-by-cassidy-krug/

In this powerful continuation of our two-part series on mental health and Olympic athletes, we chat with Olympic sprinter Kendall Ellis and Olympic pentathlete Samantha Schultz for an honest, grounded conversation about what it truly means to perform at the highest level. Kendall and Samantha open up about the pressures that come with elite competition, the stigma they faced when seeking help, and the emotional toll of constantly striving to appear “strong.” They reflect on their early careers, share the strategies that helped them stay grounded, and explore why vulnerability and support systems are essential for athletes at any stage. The conversation also dives into identity, transitions, and the often‑overlooked mental health challenges that arise when injuries, retirement, or major life changes shift an athlete’s sense of self. Kendall and Samantha offer compassionate, hard-earned insights for young athletes, families, coaches, and anyone navigating big goals while protecting their well‑being. Join us for a thoughtful, encouraging discussion that reminds us that mental health is just as vital as physical health—on and off the field.

Convos from the Couch welcomes Olympic athletes Steve Mesler and Jeremy Dodson for a powerful, honest conversation about the mental health realities behind the world’s biggest stage. While fans see strength, precision, and glory, today’s episode pulls back the curtain on what elite competitors carry long before — and long after — they step onto the track or into the sled. We explore how early ambition, identity, vulnerability, and pressure shape athletes not just as competitors, but as human beings. Steve and Jeremy share openly about their journeys to the Olympics, the cultural norms that discouraged vulnerability, and the emotional—and sometimes isolating—experience of life after competition. From journaling and self-awareness to connection, purpose, and reframing inner dialogue, each offers deeply personal insights into what supports resilience and long-term wellbeing. Listeners will also learn about the efforts happening at the International Olympic Committee and through organizations like Classroom Champions to expand mental health resources and reimagine how athletes are supported throughout their careers. Join the conversation to hear two Olympians reflect on identity, purpose, and the importance of treating mental health with the same care and training as the physical body.

LifeStance marriage and family therapist Lawson Bost joins us for a thoughtful conversation about one of the most common (and most tender) questions people ask this time of year: “Why am I still single?” Drawing from his experience in experiential education and couples therapy, Lawson explores how our beliefs, personal histories, and cultural messages shape the way we view singleness—especially around Valentine’s Day. Together, we break down what genuine human connection looks like through a simple, powerful five-part framework: loving and being loved, knowing and being known, serving and being served, and celebrating and mourning with others. We discuss the narratives people often carry about being single—like “something is wrong with me,” “I’m too picky,” or “I’m broken”—and how reframing these thoughts with compassion can change everything. Lawson also shares practical strategies for navigating this season with intention, from setting healthy boundaries around social media to creating meaningful plans for the holiday, and even thoughtful approaches to meeting new people. Whether you're single, healing, or simply curious about how connection works, this episode offers warmth, validation, and real-world insights.

Athletes often carry an emotional load that isn’t always visible from the sidelines. Therapist and former athlete Kendrique Coats shares how stigma, performance anxiety, and identity struggles can shape an athlete’s mental health. The conversation explores practical ways to help athletes feel safe, regulate stress, and understand what their bodies are communicating. Kendrique also highlights the impact of rising demands around competition, injury, and name, image, and likeness on young athletes today. Learn how intentional care and understanding can help athletes thrive through every chapter of their journey.

In this episode, we speak with therapist Saba Suleman about the deeply rooted mental health stigma within the South Asian community. Saba shares her personal journey from growing up in Pakistan to becoming a therapist in the U.S., shedding light on the cultural expectations, silence, and fear of judgment that often prevent individuals from seeking support. The conversation explores the reliance on spiritual healing, the lack of acceptance around mental health struggles, and how these barriers impact individuals and families. Saba also discusses signs of progress—including the role of social media in shifting conversations—and why culturally responsive care, such as therapy offered in native languages, is essential to helping people feel seen, understood, and supported.

What’s normal childhood behavior—and what could be OCD? In this episode, we sit down with therapist Anthony Mason to unpack how obsessive-compulsive disorder shows up in kids. Together, we explore the early signs parents and caregivers should watch for, how childhood OCD differs from adult OCD, and the emotional toll it can take on a child’s everyday life at home, in school, and with friends. Anthony also breaks down common myths about OCD and shares what truly helps—including why reassurance can sometimes make symptoms worse, how gradual exposure supports long-term progress, and the critical role families play in treatment. It’s a practical, compassionate conversation designed to help parents better understand, support, and advocate for children navigating OCD.

What happens when technology meant to help starts to blur reality? In this episode, we are joined by LifeStance Regional Clinical Director Mikka McGee to explore the emerging and unsettling phenomenon often referred to as “AI psychosis.” Together, we unpack how interactions with AI chatbots may intensify delusions or psychotic symptoms in vulnerable individuals, why the term—while non-clinical—has gained traction, and how a lack of guardrails in some AI systems can unintentionally reinforce false beliefs or paranoia, creating “shared delusions.” Through real-world examples, the conversation examines the risks, ethical implications, and potential solutions, including stronger AI safeguards, thoughtful regulation, and the irreplaceable role of human connection in mental health care.

LifeStance therapist Victoria Benfer joins us in the new year for a thoughtful conversation on exercise as a powerful form of self-care. Together, we reframe movement beyond weight loss, focusing instead on its impact on mental health and overall well-being. Victoria shares both personal experiences and clinical insights on how exercise can regulate stress, improve emotional and physical health, and bring greater mental clarity. The episode explores a range of accessible movement options—from yoga and strength training to simple activities like walking—while addressing common barriers to getting started and offering practical, realistic tips to overcome them. The conversation closes with tailored advice for mental health professionals on using exercise to prevent and manage burnout.

In this episode, we are joined by therapist Bill Franklin-Cromwell to explore the emotional challenges the holiday season can bring and how group therapy can help. Bill shares his background in trauma therapy and the inspiration behind creating his trauma-focused group, highlighting the powerful sense of connection and shared healing it offers participants. The conversation touches on holiday stress and isolation, the ways group therapy complements individual therapy, and practical strategies for navigating emotionally charged gatherings—underscoring the importance of finding the right therapeutic fit.

The holidays can be a lonely time for many—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. In this episode we chat with Adaobi Innocent, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, to unpack why the season can feel especially heavy. We explore common triggers like loss, pressure to meet expectations, financial strain, and illness, while sharing practical, compassionate strategies to cope—from building connection and practicing self-care to embracing hobbies and self-compassion. The conversation also highlights how to spot signs of loneliness in loved ones and when to offer support or encourage professional help.

In this episode, we sit down with LifeStance therapist Victoria Benfer to explore the growing trend of reborn dolls—remarkably lifelike, artist-crafted baby dolls that have captured increasing public interest. Victoria discusses the many roles these dolls play, from offering comfort to those coping with infant loss or loneliness, to supporting connection and calm for older adults in memory care settings, to serving as a creative outlet for dedicated collectors. She also addresses the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries, noting potential risks such as emotional overdependence or blurred lines between fantasy and reality. This thoughtful conversation offers an empathetic, balanced look at the rise of reborn dolls and the complex emotional needs they can help meet.

LifeStance therapist Jordan Parmenter joins us to unpack the cultural moment that is Spotify Wrapped. We explore what this end-of-year tradition reveals about our listening habits, why it resonates so strongly, and how it can offer both emotional validation and a sense of connection. Jordan shares his own experiences with Spotify Wrapped—highlighting the joy, surprises, and occasional self-reflection it brings. The conversation also looks at the impact of social comparison and FOMO when people share their results online, and how these reactions can shape our sense of identity and belonging. The episode closes with a thoughtful reminder: embracing your own musical tastes—without embarrassment or competition—is a meaningful act of self-acceptance.

LifeStance therapist Threasa Kluever offers helpful insights on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)—an evidence-based approach that helps individuals build skills for managing emotions, navigating relationships, and improving overall well-being. Tee shares her professional journey and how she came to specialize in DBT, offering accessible explanations of its core components: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. She breaks down foundational DBT skills—like Wise Mind, DEAR MAN, and radical acceptance—and highlights how these tools can support people facing challenges such as borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, and depression. The conversation also touches on what patients can expect from the typical DBT treatment timeline and why this approach can be especially meaningful for those who are just beginning their mental health journey.

LifeStance therapist Yolanda Frantzich joins us for an in-depth look at domestic violence—its prevalence, its patterns, and the wide range of abusive behaviors it can involve. Yolanda combines her clinical knowledge with personal experience, describing how her own past relationship inspired her to pursue a career in therapy. She breaks down the many forms of abuse, including physical harm, emotional manipulation, sexual coercion, financial control, and the growing impact of technological abuse such as digital monitoring and harassment. The conversation also delves into the systemic and psychological factors that keep victims trapped, including isolation, shame, and trauma bonding. Yolanda further shares the devastating story of her sister’s death due to domestic violence, underscoring the urgent need for early recognition of warning signs and timely intervention. This episode provides actionable insights, raises awareness about the complexity of domestic violence, and reinforces the message that support is available—and that no one should feel compelled to stay in an abusive relationship.

Therapist Emily Broad joins the conversation to explore dissociation—what it is, how it manifests, and strategies for managing it. She shares practical grounding tools, including the 5-4-3-2-1 method and personalized breathing exercises. The discussion also covers building body awareness, particularly for trauma survivors, and approaches to gently increase tolerance for challenging emotions. Emily emphasizes that experiencing dissociation is not a personal failing and offers hope for healing and growth.

Katie Fosselius, a licensed therapist at LifeStance Health joins us on this episode to explore one of the most essential elements of effective therapy — the therapeutic relationship. Katie shares her personal path to becoming a therapist and reflects on how empathy, authenticity, and trust form the foundation for healing and growth. Drawing inspiration from pioneers like Carl Rogers and Irvin Yalom, they discuss the power of unconditional positive regard, thoughtful self-disclosure, and genuine connection. Listeners will gain practical insights into how strong client-therapist relationships can shape meaningful therapeutic outcomes.

In this special Halloween episode, we chat with LifeStance therapist Ed Collins, author of Fear Itself: The Nature of Fear and Its Value to the Human Race. Together, we dive into what really lies beneath our fears—why we seek out scary experiences, how fear connects to anxiety, and the surprising ways it can help us grow. Ed also shares how fear has shaped human survival and why it continues to fascinate us each Halloween season. It’s a thought-provoking look at the emotion that both frightens and fuels us.