Convos from the Couch by LifeStance Health
On this podcast, you’ll hear engaging, informative conversations with leading LifeStance Health professionals that will help guide you on your journey to leading a healthier, more fulfilling life.
On this podcast, you’ll hear engaging, informative conversations with leading LifeStance Health professionals that will help guide you on your journey to leading a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Episodes

Jul 12, 2024
Occupations and Personality Types
Jul 12, 2024
Jul 12, 2024
33 min
Research shows that individuals experience higher job satisfaction when their personalities align with their occupations. LifeStance therapists Nicholette and Brady Martens delve into various personality frameworks like Myers-Briggs and the Big Five, discussing how these can influence career choices and workplace happiness.
Brady shares insights on how certain personality types may be better suited for specific jobs, using examples from his own experiences and therapeutic practice.
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Jun 28, 2024
Jun 28, 2024
25 min
We are joined by Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Melissa Cribb to explore the intricate relationship between trauma and substance use disorders. Melissa shares her extensive experience working in both intensive outpatient and community-based settings, providing a deep dive into how trauma-informed care can transform treatment approaches.
Listen in as they discuss the causes of addiction, the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the critical need for empathy and understanding in supporting individuals on their recovery journey.
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Jun 18, 2024
Jun 18, 2024
21 min
As we recognize Pride month, Nicholette sits down with therapist Melanie Falls to explore a range of valuable resources for the LGBTQ+ community.
Listeners will gain insights into various local, state, and national organizations offering support, from legal aid and crisis hotlines to healthcare and educational programs.
This episode also covers healthcare resources, emphasizing the importance of finding LGBTQ+ affirming providers and navigating the complexities of healthcare laws. Additionally, Melanie discusses the critical role of allies and the numerous ways they can support the LGBTQ+ community through various programs and initiatives.
National Resources:
Human Rights Campaign (HRC): Offers educational programs like Safe Schools and support for LGBTQ+ students on HBCU campuses.
The Trevor Project: Provides a 24/7 crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youth and advocates for suicide prevention and crisis intervention.
GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, Straight Educational Network): Works in every state to educate the public on LGBTQ+ issues.
Equality Federation: Coordinates with state-level equality organizations to enhance advocacy and support efforts nationwide.
Support for Families and Allies:
PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays): Offers support and resources for families and friends of LGBTQ+ individuals, helping them understand and support their loved ones.
Learn more about the LGBTQIA+ Community and Mental Health
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Jun 18, 2024
A Therapist's Journey Through Trauma and Healing
Jun 18, 2024
Jun 18, 2024
15 min
LifeStance therapist Amber Hulgan joins us to explore the profound impact of trauma. Amber bravely shares her personal journey through childhood abuse, the loss of her mother to suicide, and the long road to healing and advocacy.
Discover how Amber's experiences shaped her career as a marriage and family therapist, and how she uses her story to connect with and support others facing similar challenges. With empathy and resilience, Amber discusses breaking cycles of trauma and the importance of mental health support.

Jun 1, 2024
Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth & Loved Ones
Jun 1, 2024
Jun 1, 2024
19 min
In this special Pride Month episode of "Convos from the Couch," host Nicholette Leanza (she/her) sits down with Denise Goff (she/her), a licensed clinical professional counselor and co-chair of LifeStance Illinois's DEI committee. Together, they delve into the profound impact of family acceptance and rejection on the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Join us as Denise shares eye-opening statistics, shedding light on the challenges LGBTQ+ youth face when met with family rejection. From increased rates of depression and substance abuse to the devastating reality of homelessness and suicidal ideation, Denise paints a poignant picture of the struggles and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community.
The conversation also explores practical coping strategies, the crucial role of mental health professionals, and ways families can become supportive allies. With a focus on creating safe and inclusive environments, both in therapy and at home, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to support LGBTQ+ loved ones.
Tune in to understand the critical importance of acceptance and how we can all contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world. Happy Pride!
Learn more about LGBTQIA+ Community and Mental Health
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May 31, 2024
Understanding Asian-American Cultural Identity
May 31, 2024
May 31, 2024
12 min
As we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, LifeStance Health psychiatrist Dora-Linda Wang, MD, MA shares her insights on the unique aspects of Asian cultural identity, the importance of family interdependence, and the challenges of mental health stigma within the Asian American community.
Discover how cultural sensitivity can enhance therapeutic approaches and learn about the historical context that shapes the experiences of Asian Americans today.
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May 27, 2024
Navigating Veterans' Return to Civilian Life
May 27, 2024
May 27, 2024
25 min
On this episode, Nicholette is joined by Marriage and Family Therapists Abi Mello and Liam O'Mahony to explore the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life. Abi and Liam share their insights and research on the critical issues veterans encounter, such as job security, identity, trauma, and the importance of strong support systems. They also discuss effective therapy approaches and available resources to aid veterans in their journey.
Tune in to understand the complexities of reintegration and how we can better support those who have served our country.
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May 23, 2024
Schizophrenia on Screen: Myths vs. Reality
May 23, 2024
May 23, 2024
14 min
Join us on today's episode as we chat with LifeStance Regional Clinical Director, Mikka McGhee, about the portrayal of Schizophrenia in popular culture, specifically in horror movies. Mikka analyzes psychological themes in films, and discusses how these portrayals often contribute to stigma.
We dive into the symptoms of schizophrenia, examine both accurate and misleading depictions in movies, and highlight the importance of responsible storytelling in media.
This episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of entertainment and psychology. Tune in to explore how we can bridge the gap between Hollywood fiction and clinical reality.
Learn more about LifeStance Health: https://lifestance.com
Learn more about Schizophrenia
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About
On this podcast, you’ll hear engaging, informative conversations with leading LifeStance Health professionals that will help guide you on your journey to leading a healthier, more fulfilling life.
LifeStance is a behavioral healthcare company focused on providing evidence-based, medically driven treatment services for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a variety of mental health issues in an outpatient care setting, both in-person and through its digital health telemedicine offering.




