Convos from the Couch by LifeStance Health

Understanding Postpartum Psychosis

LifeStance therapist Kellen Smith joins us to explore the complex and often misunderstood reality of postpartum psychosis. The conversation unpacks what postpartum psychosis is, how it differs from postpartum depression, and why early recognition and support are so critical.
 
Drawing from her background in forensic psychology, Kellen helps listeners understand key warning signs, including severe mood changes, delusions, hallucinations, and a growing disconnect from reality.
 
We reflect on how stigma, limited resources, and missed opportunities for intervention can contribute to devastating outcomes—and how compassionate, timely care can make a meaningful difference for individuals and families.

When Scrolling Takes Over: Understanding Social Media Addiction

In this episode, we sit down with LifeStance therapist Jordan Parmenter to unpack a conversation that’s increasingly hard to ignore: the impact of social media on our mental and emotional well-being.
Grounded in a recent landmark court case that held major platforms accountable for addictive design features like infinite scroll and autoplay, the discussion goes beyond headlines to explore what “social media addiction” really means. Jordan breaks down how it differs from heavy use, the subtle warning signs to watch for, and when scrolling starts to interfere with daily life, emotional regulation, or self-esteem.
Together, they also examine why certain groups—especially youth and individuals navigating anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or high stress—may be more vulnerable to these patterns.
Throughout the episode, listeners will find practical, non-judgmental guidance on creating a healthier relationship with technology—from setting realistic boundaries to using social media more intentionally. The conversation also touches on age-appropriate use, the influence of algorithms, and how therapy can help people better understand their habits and regain a sense of balance—without shame or blame.

Understanding Adult Autism: Masking, Burnout, and Missed Diagnoses

LifeStance Psychologist Dr. Audrey Oliva explores what psychological assessment for adult autism really involves—and why so many adults are missed earlier in life.
 
We discuss the full evaluation process, from the initial intake to in‑depth testing, behavioral observation, and comprehensive feedback. The conversation unpacks key concepts like masking, twice exceptionality, and autistic burnout, and explains how high intelligence, long‑term coping strategies, or overlapping conditions like trauma, ADHD, or OCD can complicate diagnosis. 
We also discuss common concerns adults have about “masking too well” during evaluations, the emotional and cognitive demands of testing, and why including lived experience—and sometimes family perspective—matters so much. 

The Sauna Boom: Wellness Trend or Helpful Mental Health Tool?

Saunas are having a serious moment — from gyms to backyard builds to endless social media claims promising everything from better sleep to reduced stress. But behind the hype, what’s actually true?
LifeStance Health Clinical Directors Aimee McWilliams and Mark McGrosky join us to explore this wellness trend.
Together, the group unpacks the growing popularity of saunas and looks at what research suggests about heat exposure, stress reduction, sleep quality, mood support, and nervous system regulation. They discuss how sauna use may complement mental health care — without replacing therapy or medical treatment — and why it’s important to approach wellness trends with realistic expectations.

Understanding the Loneliness Epidemic: Why Connection Matters

Feeling disconnected—even when you’re not alone? You’re not the only one.
In this episode, we chat with therapist Lauren Corsillo to unpack the growing loneliness epidemic—and why it’s affecting people of all ages. Drawing on research, clinical insight, and real-world experiences, Lauren explores how loneliness shows up in our lives and what’s driving its rise.
Together, we break down what loneliness really means, who it impacts most, and why building meaningful connections can feel so challenging today. Lauren also shares practical, compassionate strategies for strengthening relationships—from setting healthy boundaries to embracing vulnerability and improving communication.
Whether you’re navigating disconnection or looking to deepen your relationships, this conversation offers thoughtful, actionable ways to reconnect and feel more supported. 

Supporting Ourselves Through Political Stress

In a time when the headlines feel relentless and conversations can quickly turn charged, we sit down with therapist Eva Tukuafu for a thoughtful, grounding conversation on navigating political stress.
Eva shares practical guidance for staying present, maintaining psychological flexibility, and navigating challenging conversations without losing sight of our values or our relationships. From understanding the difference between healthy boundaries and avoidance, to recognizing how social media overstimulation impacts our nervous systems, the discussion offers approaches rooted in compassion and curiosity.
 
Listeners will also hear real‑world examples of how to engage meaningfully — whether that’s limiting content consumption, staying open to nuanced viewpoints, or taking value‑aligned action in your community. This episode reminds us that while we can’t control the world around us, we can choose how we show up in it.
 
Join the conversation to learn supportive ways to care for yourself, hold space for others, and move toward humanity — even when things feel hard.
 
 

How Better Sleep Supports Better Mental 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.

Why “Heated Rivalry” Hit Us So Hard

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.