Do you get overly attached to fictional characters, musicians, or other people who live in the public eye? In this episode, I talk with Lana Holmes, Psy.D., LCP about the pros and cons of parasocial relationships as well as:  

• Why HSPs are more impacted by parasocial connections  

• The purpose of parasocial relationships that serve as role models, provide a sense of belonging, or build self-esteem 

• The downsides of forming attachments with fictional characters or public figures 

• Ways parasocial relationships impact your real life connections and when it’s time to set boundaries 

• Using your parasocial connections as clues to the values and traits you’re looking for in your real life connections  

Dr. Lana is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at the Center for Inclusive Therapy + Wellness. She's passionate about providing therapy that welcomes and celebrates marginalized, oppressed, and stigmatized communities. Her areas of clinical interest and expertise include: the intersection between mental health and spirituality, issues pertaining to BDSM, kink, and ethical non-monogamy; issues pertaining to BIPOC individuals, issues pertaining to LGBTQIA2S+ folx, trauma across the lifespan, life transitions, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. She currently has openings for online individual and couples therapy.      

Keep in touch with Dr. Lana:
• Website: https://www.inclusivetherapywellness.com/lana 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lana-holmes-psy-d-348972186 
• Email: inclusivetherapywellness@gmail.com   

Resources Mentioned:
• Kink and Clinical Practice 101 Training: https://www.touchstoneinstitute.org/trainings/kink-and-clinical-practice-101-(self-paced)
• Luddite Club: https://www.theludditeclub.org 
• Mass Communication and Parasocial Interaction Study: https://doi.org/10.1080/00332747.1956.11023049

Thanks for listening! You can read the full show notes and sign up for my email list to get new episode announcements and other resources at:
https://www.sensitivestories.com

You can also follow "SensitiveStrengths" for behind-the-scenes content plus more educational and inspirational HSP resources:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sensitivestrengths
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sensitivestrengths
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sensitivestrengths

And for more support, attend a Sensitive Sessions monthly workshop: https://www.sensitivesessions.com. Use code PODCAST for 25% off.

If you have a moment, please rate and review the podcast, it helps Sensitive Stories reach more HSPs!

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment with a mental health or medical professional.

Some links are affiliate links. You are under no obligation to purchase any book, product or service. I am not responsible for the quality or satisfaction of any purchase.