Convos from the Couch by LifeStance Health

Bipolar Disorder: A Dialogue with Psychiatric Experts

In honor of World Bipolar Day, host Nicholette Leanza sits down with psychiatrists Dr. Robert Herman and Dr. Joe Foundriest to explore the complexities of Bipolar disorder. Dr. Herman shares how personal experiences shaped his passion for the field, his research on Lamotrigine, and his work with the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. Dr. Foundriest provides insights into the psychodynamics of the disorder and the role of treatments like lithium and antipsychotics.
This episode covers key topics such as the differences between bipolar I and II, early warning signs, the impact on sleep and daily life, and effective management strategies. Join us as we raise awareness, break stigma, and share valuable resources for those affected by bipolar disorder.

Generational Pain: Addressing the Root of Childhood Trauma

On this episode, we chat with therapist Becky Degraffenried about how unresolved childhood trauma shapes adulthood. Becky shares her journey into trauma therapy, breaks down common signs, and explores the lasting impact of generational trauma. We discuss the ACEs scoring system and how healthcare and mental health professionals can work together to identify and address trauma early.

Borderline Personality Disorder: Debunking Myths and Navigating Treatment

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) <links to https://lifestance.com/services/borderline-personality-disorder-bpd-treatments/>  is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often surrounded by myths and stigma. In this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza sits down with psychologist Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons <links to https://lifestance.com/provider/psychologist/va/ashburn/aaliyah-gibbons/ > to break down the truth about BPD, its connection to trauma <links to https://lifestance.com/condition/traumatic-disorders/ > , and how it’s often misrepresented. Dr. Gibbons shares her personal and professional insights, debunking common misconceptions while highlighting the hope that comes with the right treatment. They discuss evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) <links to https://lifestance.com/services/dialectical-behavioral-therapy/ >, Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT), and somatic therapy <links to https://lifestance.com/services/somatic-therapy/>  approaches that help individuals with BPD navigate their emotions and relationships. Whether you or a loved one has been affected by BPD, this conversation sheds light on the reality of the condition and the tools available for healing. Tune in for an enlightening and compassionate discussion!

Understanding and Overcoming Porn Addiction

In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Dunn, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, who helps unpack the complexities of porn addiction—what it is, how it’s diagnosed, and the impact it can have on individuals and relationships.
We explore effective treatment approaches, from task-based therapy and 12-step programs to inpatient care, and discuss how loved ones can recognize the signs of addiction and offer meaningful support. Michael also provides expert insight into the recovery process, emphasizing that with the right tools, community, and commitment, healing is possible.
 

Food as Medicine: How What We Eat Impacts Mental Health

In this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza sits down with Executive Clinical Director Matt Solit to explore the fascinating connection between food and mental health. Matt shares his journey from culinary enthusiast to mental health professional, explaining how mindful eating practices can reduce anxiety, depression, and binge-eating disorders.
They discuss the importance of viewing "food as a dance, not a fight," and practical ways families can develop healthier relationships with nutrition. Matt offers insights on raising children with positive food associations, lessons from Blue Zone diets where longevity thrives, and how shared family meals correlate with lower rates of eating disorders and improved mental wellbeing. Perfect for National Nutrition Month, this conversation provides practical strategies to transform your relationship with food and enhance both physical and mental health.

Mindful Strategies to Combat Self-Critical Thoughts

Why are we often our own harshest critics? In this insightful episode, Allyson Bence explores the psychology behind self-criticism and how it fuels anxiety and isolation.
She introduces key techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—including thought diffusion, thoughts on a cloud, and thought labeling—to help create distance from negative thinking patterns. Tune in as Allyson shares practical strategies to shift your mindset, break free from self-judgment, and cultivate greater self-compassion.
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Relationship Real Talk: From Self-Discovery to Successful Dating

In this special Valentine's episode, we talk with licensed marriage and family therapist Leanna Stockard about relationships and dating.
Leanna shares her insights on common barriers to forming meaningful romantic connections, the impact of past relationship experiences, the influence of dating apps and social media, and the importance of self-reflection and vulnerability in dating.
She also discusses practical advice for overcoming toxic relationship patterns and emphasizes that everyone's dating process is unique, urging listeners to avoid comparison traps.
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Intersectionality and Resilience: Recognizing Black History Month

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons about mental health within the Black community in honor of Black History Month.
Dr. Gibbons, a licensed clinical psychologist, emphasizes the importance of education and advocacy in underserved populations. They explore the impact of social determinants of health such as housing, jobs, and education on mental health within Black communities. Dr. Gibbons outlines obstacles Black individuals face in accessing mental health support, including the significance of racial concordance between providers and patients.
The conversation also highlights the importance of intersectionality, celebrating diverse Black experiences, and focusing on resilience within the Black community.
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