Convos from the Couch by LifeStance Health

Join psychologist Dr. Rachael Polokoff on Convos from the Couch as she revisits the traumatic January 2025 Los Angeles fires, highlighting the ongoing psychological challenges faced by survivors, including PTSD, anxiety,  and depression.
Drawing from personal experience and professional expertise, Dr. Polokoff discusses effective therapeutic approaches such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and journaling. This insightful discussion emphasizes the importance of specialized mental health interventions, community connection, and authentic empathy in healing after devastating events.

In this inspiring episode of Convos from the Couch, Angela Caiazza, Clinical Director at LifeStance Health, shares her passion and insights into the transformative power of School-Based Mental Health Programs. Learn how providing accessible mental health support within schools helps students and families overcome common barriers, improves academic and emotional outcomes, and strengthens entire communities. This innovative collaboration between therapists, educators, and families creates a more supportive environment for student wellness, breaking stigma and building hope one classroom at a time.

Women face unique mental health challenges, but many of these struggles remain overlooked or misunderstood. In this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza speaks with psychologist Dr. Ara Lambert about the realities of women’s mental health, from the impact of hormonal changes and societal expectations to the difficulty of balancing multiple roles. They discuss generational shifts in seeking therapy, the importance of community support, and how self-care can be a radical act of empowerment. Tune in to learn how women can prioritize their well-being in a world that often demands too much.

Is it normal forgetfulness or a sign of something more? In this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza speaks with neuropsychologist Dr. Blair Scribner-Weiss about the differences between healthy aging, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia.
They explore common misconceptions about cognitive decline, the role of lifestyle factors in brain health, and practical strategies to reduce dementia risk. Dr. Scribner-Weiss also shares expert advice on when to seek neuropsychological evaluation how to keep the brain sharp through social engagement, exercise, and mental stimulation. Tune in for an insightful discussion on aging and cognitive wellness!

Pregnancy is not just a physical journey—it’s an emotional and psychological one too. In this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza speaks with Dr. Rosita Cortizo about the transformative power of prenatal psychotherapy.
They discuss how therapy can support expectant mothers, strengthen the bond with their unborn baby, and address common challenges like anxiety, trauma, and tokophobia (fear of childbirth). Dr. Cortizo shares insights from her decades of experience, emphasizing the importance of mental health care as part of prenatal wellness. Tune in to discover how approaches like EMDR and trauma-informed therapy can help create a more positive pregnancy experience for both mother and child.

In this eye-opening episode, host Nicholette Leanza is joined by LifeStance therapist Will Acton for a timely conversation about masculinity, mental health, and the growing influence of the “manosphere.”
Sparked by themes in the Netflix series Adolescence, they dive into the world of online communities that push extreme views on manhood—ranging from men’s rights groups to incel forums. Will breaks down how these spaces can fuel toxic behaviors, emotional repression, and even mental health crises. They unpack the appeal of certain influencers, share red flags to watch for, and offer practical ways to steer men and boys toward healthier, more authentic versions of masculinity.

On this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza sits down with Ruta Morgenthau, Associate Director at NeuroStar, for an in-depth look at Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Ruta shares insights into how TMS works, who it helps, and why it's becoming a game-changer in mental health treatment.
From FDA-clearance for major depression in adults and adolescents to applications for anxious depression and OCD, Ruta explains the science behind TMS, the treatment process, and the powerful outcomes it can deliver.
The episode also highlights NeuroStar’s Better Me Provider program in partnership with LifeStance Health—an initiative aimed at expanding access to innovative care. Listeners will hear real patient success stories and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of offering diverse treatment options in today’s mental health landscape.

Host Nicholette Leanza sits down with LifeStance therapist Leanna Stockard to unpack the complex relationship between social media and mental health.
Leanna explores how social media can both normalize conversations about mental health and contribute to challenges like misinformation and self-diagnosis.
They dive into:💬 How online stories can reduce stigma⚠️ The risks of overusing terms like "narcissism" or "love bombing"📱 The effects of constant online presence🧠 Tips for finding credible mental health info
A must-listen for anyone navigating their mental health in the digital age.