Therapist Uncensored Podcast
Therapist Uncensored Podcast

Therapist Uncensored Podcast

Sue Marriott LCSW, CGP & Ann Kelley PhD

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Episodes

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Ranked as one of Apple’s Top 10 Social Science podcasts, Therapist Uncensored delivers trusted, science-backed insights on mental health and secure relationships. With over 11 million downloads worldwide, this female-led, independent podcast puts you right in the therapy room, making powerful psychological insights accessible and actionable. Co-hosts Sue Marriott, LCSW CGP and Ann Kelley, PhD break down complex ideas into practical wisdom you can use immediately. They’re joined by top neuroscientists, world-renown relationship experts and outside-the-box perspectives to share cutting-edge research and strategies for building stronger connections with yourself and others. Shownotes at www.therapistuncensored.com Transform how you understand your mind, your relationships, and yourself.

Recent Episodes

Where Personal Healing Meets Collective Change with Prentis Hemphill (295)
MAR 31, 2026
Where Personal Healing Meets Collective Change with Prentis Hemphill (295)
<h1 data-start="568" data-end="914">We don’t heal alone &#8211; we heal in connection.</h1> <p data-start="568" data-end="914"><span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline"><span class="whitespace-normal">Prentis Hemphill,</span></span> alongside co-host Sue Marriott, traces their path from social organizing to somatic therapy, revealing how personal healing and collective transformation are deeply intertwined. Together, they explore how inherited myths, power dynamics, and collective trauma shape both our inner worlds and our social systems. This episode invites therapists and change makers alike to consider healing as more than an individual process—it’s relational, embodied, and political in impact.<a href="http://https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/726173/what-it-takes-to-heal-by-prentis-hemphill/"><img decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-20422" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/What-it-Takes-to-Heal-Book.png-226x300-1.webp" alt="" width="124" height="165" /></a> Prentis offers grounded reflections and practical tools for working with the body, navigating power, and engaging in healing that extends beyond the self.</p> <blockquote> <h3 data-start="568" data-end="914">“When we are courageous, we can do the unexpected and start to mold the world around a vision bigger than one produced by fear. Every inch of progress, every ounce of love, every truly meaningful action from here on out will happen through courage, not comfort.”  &#8211; <span class="authorOrTitle">Prentis Hemphill</span><span id="quote_book_link_195888446"></span></h3> </blockquote> <h5><em><strong>Time Stamps for Where Personal Healing Meets Collective Change (295)</strong></em></h5> <p>06:15 The interplay of interpersonal and systemic dynamics<br /> 09:31 The challenge of updating therapeutic practices<br /> 16:49 Impact of myths on human behavior<br /> 20:32 Reflections on current political climate and collective trauma<br /> 24:10 The myth of &#8220;American Exceptionalism&#8221;<br /> 36:50 Self-care and community engagement<br /> 40:07 Resources for healing and transformation</p> <h5><em><strong>About our Guest &#8211; Prentis Hemphill</strong></em></h5> <p><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20421 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Prentis-Hemphill-2024-Headshot-3-1-1-Rochelle-Haynie-Scales-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="227" height="151" />Prentis Hemphill is the bestselling author of What It Takes to Heal, a groundbreaking exploration of healing, justice, and transformation. A therapist, somatics teacher, facilitator, political organizer, and writer, Prentis is also the founder of The Embodiment Institute and a leading voice in embodied leadership and collective healing. For over a decade, Prentis has worked with individuals and organizations through their most challenging moments of change—navigating leadership transitions, conflict, and the alignment of practice with values. Grounded in an embodied approach, their work ensures that our intentions aren&#8217;t just ideas, but are fully lived, felt, and practiced. Before founding The Embodiment Institute, Prentis served as the Healing Justice Director at Black Lives Matter Global Network and was a lead somatics teacher with generative somatics and Black Organizing for Leadership and Dignity (BOLD). They hold an M.A. in Clinical Psychology and have provided therapeutic services in low-cost mental health clinics, centering marginalized communities. Prentis has contributed to Atlas of the Heart (Brené Brown), The Politics of Trauma (Staci K. Haines), You Are Your Best Thing (edited by Brené Brown &#38; Tarana Burke), and Holding Change (adrienne maree brown). They are also the creator and host of the acclaimed podcasts Finding Our Way and Becoming the People, which have surpassed over a million downloads. At its core, Prentis’ work challenges the complacency of mainstream therapeutic models, infusing healing with the rigor of justice, repair, and accountability. They believe that reclaiming feeling and relationship creates space for true transformation—in ourselves, our movements, and the world. Prentis lives on a small farm in Durham, NC, with their partner, Kasha, their child, and two dogs.</p> <h5><em><strong>!!NEW OPPORTUNITY!! READING POD STARTING MAY 1ST!</strong></em></h5> <p><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/726173/what-it-takes-to-heal-by-prentis-hemphill/"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20432 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/what-it-takes-to-heal-book-cover-203x300.jpg" alt="" width="143" height="211" /></a></p> <p>Looking to deep dive into Prentis&#8217;s book? Co-host Sue Marriott is hosting a <strong>weekly</strong> Zoom reading pod &#8211; with a potential author Q&#38;A at the conclusion. First session starts May 1st.</p> <p>$10/session and $5/session for our Supercast and Neuronerds. <a href="http://THERAPISTUNCENSORED.COM/whatittakespod">Learn more and reserve your spot &#8211; HERE!</a></p> <h5></h5> <h5><em><strong>Resources for Where Personal Healing Meets Collective Change with Prentis Hemphill (295)</strong></em></h5> <p><a href="https://www.theembodimentinstitute.org/">The Embodiment Institute</a> &#8211; Training institute, research entity, and culture change engine that strategically develops people and organizations to be agents of transformation in families, social movements and the environment.</p> <p><a href="http://prentishemphill.com">Prentis&#8217;s Website</a> &#8211; Resources and information</p> <p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/becoming-the-people-podcast-with-prentis-hemphill/id1519965068">&#8220;Becoming the People&#8221;</a> &#8211; Prentis&#8217;s podcast</p> <p><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/726173/what-it-takes-to-heal-by-prentis-hemphill/">What It Takes to Heal</a>; Published 2024 by Penguin Random House -Prentis&#8217;s book, get your copy today!</p> <hr /> <h3><strong><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas">Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!  </a></strong></h3> <p>Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-19737 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Course-Logo-Options-Thumbnails-300x300.png" alt="" width="163" height="163" /> who you are and how you connect with others.</p> <p>Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&#38;A&#8217;s &#8211; next one April 13, 2026!</p> <p><strong>Earn 6 Continuing Education</strong> Credits – Available at Checkout</p> <p>As a listener of this podcast, <a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas"><strong>use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount</strong>.</a></p> <hr /> <p><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-19612 " src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/join-our-premium-platforms-1-2-300x113.png" alt="" width="446" height="168" /></a><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-17401" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png" sizes="(max-width: 94px) 100vw, 94px" srcset="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png 236w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1.png 471w" alt="" width="94" height="119" /></a></p> <h4><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/">Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!</a></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1"><strong>You are invited! </strong></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1">Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! <span style="color: #0000ff;"><em><strong><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join">Click here!!</a></strong></em></span></h4>
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49 MIN
Bonus – Hormones, Libido, and the Missing Conversation About Women’s Bodies with Dr. Christine Vaccaro (294)
MAR 24, 2026
Bonus – Hormones, Libido, and the Missing Conversation About Women’s Bodies with Dr. Christine Vaccaro (294)
<h2><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-19612" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/join-our-premium-platforms-1-2-300x113.png" alt="" width="300" height="113" /></a></h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;"><em><strong>Patreon/Supercast Special Release –</strong></em></h2> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Bonus &#8211; Hormones, Libido, and the Missing Conversation About Women’s Bodies with Dr. Christine Vaccaro (294)</h2> <h4 style="text-align: center;">This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Christine Vaccaro – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed.</h4> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join"><strong>Click here to join &#38; finish the episode!!</strong></a></span></h4> <hr /> <h1>We’ve normalized not understanding women’s bodies.</h1> <p>Dr. Christine Vaccaro helps demystify women’s sexual health &#8211; exploring everything from hormones and anatomy to libido and<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20415 alignright" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/womens-ehalth-day--240x300.jpg" alt="" width="146" height="183" srcset="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/womens-ehalth-day--240x300.jpg 240w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/womens-ehalth-day-.jpg 280w" sizes="(max-width: 146px) 100vw, 146px" /> pelvic floor challenges. Together, we break down what’s often misunderstood or overlooked, offering clear, empowering insights to help women better understand their bodies and advocate for their care.</p> <blockquote> <h3>“You don’t want women to have to choose between mental health or sexual health.” &#8211; Dr. Christine Vaccaro</h3> </blockquote> <h5><em><strong>Time Stamps for Bonus &#8211; Hormones, Libido, and the Missing Conversation About Women’s Bodies with Dr. Christine Vaccaro (294)</strong></em></h5> <p>00:49 Understanding the complexity of women&#8217;s sexual health<br /> 06:53 Libido and sexual health<br /> 09:36 Gender equity in sexual health education<br /> 12:36 The Clitoris: Anatomy and function<br /> 15:12 Hormones and their impact on sexual health<br /> 30:57 Navigating hormonal changes in Perimenopause and Menopause<br /> 34:09 The role of Testosterone in women&#8217;s health<br /> 51:53 Pelvic floor health and its impact on women<br /> 58:02 Importance of sexual health awareness</p> <h5><em><strong>About our Guest &#8211; Dr. Christine Vaccaro </strong></em></h5> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20413 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025-290x300.jpg" alt="" width="163" height="169" srcset="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025-290x300.jpg 290w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025-768x793.jpg 768w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025-610x630.jpg 610w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025-480x496.jpg 480w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025-24x24.jpg 24w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Vaccaro-Headshot-2025.avif 914w" sizes="(max-width: 163px) 100vw, 163px" />She is a double board-certified and fellowship trained urogynecologist &#38; reconstructive pelvic surgeon with</span><a href="https://www.rachelrubinmd.com/post/christine-vaccaro-do-urogynecologist-and-my-first-fellow"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> advanced training in sexual medicine</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. She is an expert in treating urogynecological conditions and has conducted research on </span><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38768800/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">interstitial cystitis (IC),</span></a> <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37326238/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">pelvic floor disorders</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and </span><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24630291/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">clitoral anatomy</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Dr. Vaccaro is an active member of both the </span><a href="https://www.augs.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">American Urogynecologic Society</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (AUGS) and the </span><a href="https://www.sgsonline.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Society of Gynecologic Surgeons</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (SGS), where she contributes to multiple committees focused on advancing education and research.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dr. Vaccaro has been practicing medicine for over 20 years in the military, and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1999, with a major in Chemistry/Life Sciences, Nuclear Engineering Track. She received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree in 2003 from the University of North Texas Health Science Center. She completed her OB/GYN residency training in 2007 at Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA and her Urogynecology fellowship training in 2011 at Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati, OH. ​Dr. Vaccaro retired from the U.S. Army with the rank of Colonel, after serving as </span><a href="https://www.usuhs.edu/profile/christine-vaccaro-colonel-retired-do"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fellowship Program Director and Service Chief of Urogynecology &#38; Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> at </span><a href="https://walterreed.tricare.mil/Health-Services/Womens-Health-Pregnancy/Urogynecology"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Walter Reed National Military Medical Center</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <hr /> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #008000;"><em><strong><a style="color: #008000;" href="https://therapistuncensored.com/upcoming_events/">Looking for our Upcoming Events? Click here!!</a></strong></em></span></h4> <h3><span style="color: #3366ff;"><strong><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas">Our Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!</a></strong></span></h3> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-18765 alignright" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Headshot-Uplevel-Sue-and-Ann2-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="192" height="128" />Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others.</p> <ul> <li>Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout</li> <li>Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&#38;A&#8217;s</li> </ul>
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15 MIN
How Music Heals What Words Can’t with Ann Koplow (293)
MAR 17, 2026
How Music Heals What Words Can’t with Ann Koplow (293)
<h1>Some feelings can’t be said &#8211; but they can be sung</h1> <p>Ann Koplow shares her journey as a therapist and musician, discussing the healing power of music, her experiences with a rare heart condition, and the importance of authenticity in therapy. She emphasizes the role of shamelessness in creative expression and how songwriting serves as a therapeutic tool for both herself and her clients. The conversation explores the impact of music on mental health, the creation of community through shared experiences, and the necessity of letting go of<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20407 alignright" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ann-the-singing-therapist-2--300x226.webp" alt="" width="165" height="125" /> shame to embrace one&#8217;s true self.</p> <blockquote> <h3><span class="MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil">&#8220;Every day is a gift. </span><span class="MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil">Let go of your shame. </span><span class="MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil">Be your authentic self.&#8221; &#8211; Ann Koplow, LCSW, CGP</span></h3> </blockquote> <h5><em><strong>About our Guest &#8211; Ann Koplow, LCSW, CGP</strong></em></h5> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20406 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/94A2EB83-C681-4273-8542-3B0A4A936DF8_1_105_c-Ann-Koplow-300x300.jpeg" alt="" width="193" height="193" />Ann Koplow is a clinical social worker, certified group therapist, and singer-songwriter who uses psychotherapy and music to help people grow and connect. She facilitates six open-access “Coping and Healing” groups a week at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and is a past president of the Northeastern Society for Group Psychotherapy. She has yet to publish any articles or books about her innovative model for group therapy because she’s better at short-form creations like songs, including “Triggers,” “Everybody’s Somebody’s Asshole,” “Catastrophizing,” “Other People’s Anger,” “Don’t Kill Yourself,” and her protest song “You Don’t Scare Me!” When she shares her songs in her groups, the members appreciate her relatable and accepting messages like “I Left the House Before I Felt Ready” and “It’s Hard to Get Sh*t Done When You’re Scared Sh*tless.” Her patients express concern that she will get too famous and leave the groups behind, but that’s just not going to happen. Her album The Singing Therapist — Live at the Lilypad! and her other songs are available on Spotify, Apple Music, and probably wherever music can be found.</p> <h5><em><strong>Time Stamps for How Music Heals What Words Can’t with Ann Koplow (293)</strong></em></h5> <p>05:23 How Ann navigates life living with a heart condition<br /> 12:30 Shameless appeals for applause<br /> 19:26 Using music in group therapy<br /> 26:16 The power of authenticity and relatability in creative expression<br /> 31:15 Healing through creative outlets</p> <h5><em><strong>Resources for How Music Heals What Words Can’t with Ann Koplow (293)</strong></em></h5> <p><a href="http://annkoplow.wordpress.com"><em>The Year(s) of Living Non-Judgmentally</em></a> &#8211; Ann&#8217;s blog</p> <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@singingtherapist">Ann&#8217;s Youtube Channel</a> &#8211; Check out her music</p> <p><a href="http://linktr.ee/singingtherapist">Ann&#8217;s Linktree</a> &#8211; Find her social media, blogs, Youtube channel and original songs</p> <hr /> <h3><strong><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas">Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!  </a></strong></h3> <p>Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-19737 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Course-Logo-Options-Thumbnails-300x300.png" alt="" width="163" height="163" /> who you are and how you connect with others.</p> <p>Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&#38;A&#8217;s &#8211; next one April 13, 2026!</p> <p><strong>Earn 6 Continuing Education</strong> Credits – Available at Checkout</p> <p>As a listener of this podcast, <a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas"><strong>use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount</strong>.</a></p> <hr /> <p><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-19612 " src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/join-our-premium-platforms-1-2-300x113.png" alt="" width="446" height="168" /></a><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-17401" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png" sizes="(max-width: 94px) 100vw, 94px" srcset="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png 236w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1.png 471w" alt="" width="94" height="119" /></a></p> <h4><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/">Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!</a></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1"><strong>You are invited! </strong></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1">Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! <span style="color: #0000ff;"><em><strong><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join">Click here!!</a></strong></em></span></h4> <hr /> <h3 style="text-align: right;">Join us again in Washington, DC for the 49th Annual Psychotherapy Networker!</h3> <h4 style="text-align: right;">March 19-22nd! In person and online options available. <span style="color: #0000ff;"><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="https://my.pesi.partners/782NWPK/2N4885R/">Get your discounted seat HERE!</a></span></h4> <h4 style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://my.pesi.partners/782NWPK/2N4885R/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.psychnetworker.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2026-PN-Symp_cvent_600-x-150.png" alt="2026 Symposium Registration. Live from Washington, DC!" width="600" height="150" /></a></h4>
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41 MIN
From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292)
MAR 3, 2026
From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292)
<p><strong>Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around suicide. </strong></p> <h1 data-start="1454" data-end="1504">Triggers Aren’t the Problem—They’re the Clue</h1> <p data-start="850" data-end="1227">Co-host Sue Marriott and guest Lisa Firestone examine how attachment wounds, emotional dysregulation, and relational disconnection can quietly escalate into crisis. Together they explore the often-overlooked link between attachment patterns and suicidality, and why understanding your relational blueprint may be one of the most important protective factors you have. Blending research, clinical experience, and practical strategies, this episode offers tools for building emotional resilience, increasing self-awareness, and supporting others through vulnerable moments.</p> <blockquote> <h3 data-start="850" data-end="1227"> “It is a full-time job to cope with alien elements from both interpersonal sources and societal influences.” &#8211; Dr. Lisa Firestone</h3> </blockquote> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20395 alignright" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/like-follow-subscribe-4-240x300.png" alt="" width="171" height="214" /></p> <h4 style="text-align: center;" data-start="850" data-end="1227"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="https://psych-alive.ce-go.com/the-myths-of-attachment-styles-what-real-science-tells-us"><em><strong>Myths of Attachment Styles: What Real Science Tells Us</strong></em></a></span></h4> <h4 style="text-align: center;" data-start="850" data-end="1227">FREE LIVE Webinar &#8211; March 12</h4> <p>Join Ann and Sue as they challenge oversimplified attachment frameworks popularized on social media and explore the dynamic, context-dependent nature of defensive attachment patterns.​​​​​​​ The attachment spectrum includes cultural patterns as well as unconscious scripts and strategies to update your patterns in real time &#8211; tune in to hear more! <em>FREE with an option to purchase 1.5 CE. <strong><a href="https://psych-alive.ce-go.com/the-myths-of-attachment-styles-what-real-science-tells-us">Click Here to Sign Up!!</a></strong></em></p> <h4><em><strong>Time Stamps for From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292)</strong></em></h4> <p>05:23 Understanding suicide and self-regulation<br /> 11:09 Therapeutic approaches to suicidality<br /> 16:17 Navigating attachment styles<br /> 27:11 Understanding attachment and security<br /> 29:53 Interactive exercise on attachment<br /> 40:22 Recognizing triggers in relationships</p> <h4><em><strong>About our Guest &#8211; Dr. Lisa Firestone</strong></em></h4> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20396 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Lisa-Headshot-PsychAlive-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="115" height="173" />Lisa Firestone, PhD is a Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Research and Education at the Glendon Association and Senior Editor at PsychAlive.org. She is the author of numerous articles and book chapters and coauthor of the books Self Under Siege, Conquer Your Critical Inner Voice, and Creating a Life of Meaning and Compassion. Dr. Firestone is a national and international trainer and presenter on topics including couple relationships, attachment, suicide and violence prevention assessment and treatment Lisa has been involved in clinical training and research in the areas of suicide and violence which resulted in the development of the assessments Firestone Assessment of Self-destructive Thoughts (FAST) and (FASI) and the Firestone Assessment of Violent Thoughts (FAVT) for adults and adolescents. Lisa Firestone is a clinical psychologist in private practice and consultant on the management of high-risk clients.</p> <h5><strong><em>Resources for From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292)</em></strong></h5> <p><a href="https://www.psychalive.org/making-sense-of-your-life-ecourse-dan-siegel-lisa-firestone/"><em>Making Sense of Your Life</em> </a>&#8211; eCourse with Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Lisa Firestone (4 CEs)</p> <p><em><a href="https://www.psychalive.org/challenging-the-fantasy-bond-a-search-for-personal-identity-and-freedom/">Challenging the Fantasy Bond</a> &#8211;</em> book by Dr. Robert Firestone</p> <p><a href="https://www.psychalive.org/developing-secure-attachment-two-part-online-workshop/"><em>Developing Secure Attachment</em> </a> &#8211; Two-Part Online Course (2 CEs)</p> <hr /> <h3><strong><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas">Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!  </a></strong></h3> <p>Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-19737 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Course-Logo-Options-Thumbnails-300x300.png" alt="" width="163" height="163" /> who you are and how you connect with others.</p> <p>Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&#38;A&#8217;s &#8211; next one April 13, 2026!</p> <p><strong>Earn 6 Continuing Education</strong> Credits – Available at Checkout</p> <p>As a listener of this podcast, <a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas"><strong>use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount</strong>.</a></p> <hr /> <p><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-19612 " src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/join-our-premium-platforms-1-2-300x113.png" alt="" width="446" height="168" /></a><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-17401" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png" sizes="(max-width: 94px) 100vw, 94px" srcset="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png 236w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1.png 471w" alt="" width="94" height="119" /></a></p> <h4><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/">Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!</a></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1"><strong>You are invited! </strong></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1">Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! <span style="color: #0000ff;"><em><strong><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join">Click here!!</a></strong></em></span></h4> <hr /> <h3 style="text-align: right;">Join us again in Washington, DC for the 49th Annual Psychotherapy Networker!</h3> <h4 style="text-align: right;">March 19-22nd! In person and online options available. <span style="color: #0000ff;"><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="https://my.pesi.partners/782NWPK/2N4885R/">Get your discounted seat HERE!</a></span></h4> <h4 style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://my.pesi.partners/782NWPK/2N4885R/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.psychnetworker.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2026-PN-Symp_cvent_600-x-150.png" alt="2026 Symposium Registration. Live from Washington, DC!" width="600" height="150" /></a></h4>
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57 MIN
Why Long-Term Love Gets Complicated: A Scientific Approach with Dr. Justin Garcia (291)
FEB 17, 2026
Why Long-Term Love Gets Complicated: A Scientific Approach with Dr. Justin Garcia (291)
<h1 data-start="105" data-end="179">What does science actually say about monogamy, desire, and long-term love?</h1> <p data-start="181" data-end="470">Evolutionary biologist Dr. Justin Garcia joins co-host Sue Marriott to deepen our understanding of the myths and realities of modern relationships. From monogamy to consensual non-monogamy, we explore how jealousy and trust function &#8211; not as flaws &#8211; but as deeply human signals shaped by biology and attachment. Dr. Garcia breaks down how relationships shift over<a href="http://https://kinseyinstitute.org/research/intimate-animal.html"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20382 alignright" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/the-intimate-animal-book-cover-199x300.png" alt="" width="95" height="143" /></a> time, especially as we age, and why sexual satisfaction isn’t just about frequency &#8211; it’s about novelty, meaning, and connection. We dive into the neuroscience of intimacy, including the roles of dopamine and oxytocin, and revisit the Kinsey scale to better understand the fluidity of sexual orientation. This conversation is a grounded, nuanced look at how passion evolves, and how couples can intentionally cultivate desire, curiosity, and emotional safety over the long haul.</p> <blockquote> <h3 data-start="181" data-end="470">&#8220;Humans, the most intimate animal, will always live and die for love. Understanding <strong>why</strong> gives us the power to find and maintain the loves worth living for.&#8221; &#8211; Dr. Justin Garcia, a quote from <em>The Intimate Animal</em></h3> </blockquote> <h5><em><strong>Time Stamps for Why Long-Term Love Gets Complicated: A Scientific Approach with Dr. Justin Garcia (291)</strong></em></h5> <p>00:57 Understanding social vs. sexual monogamy<br /> 04:32 The evolutionary perspective on relationships<br /> 08:26 Jealousy and relationship dynamics<br /> 20:25 Sexuality and aging: A new perspective<br /> 28:44 The power of eye gaze and oxytocin<br /> 30:30 Understanding aggression: Oxytocin and vasopressin dynamics<br /> 39:01 Exploring sexual diversity and the Kinsey scale</p> <h5><em><strong>About Our Guest &#8211; Dr. Justin Garcia</strong></em></h5> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-20379 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/justin-garcia-the-intimate-animal-speaking-pic-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="219" height="146" />Dr. Justin Garcia is an evolutionary biologist and international authority on the science of sex and relationships. Since 2019, he has served as the Executive Director of the world-renowned Kinsey Institute, where he is also a Senior Scientist. He holds an appointment as the Ruth N. Halls Professor in the College of Arts and Sciences at Indiana University and is a Founding Co-Director of Human Sexuality and Health at the IU School of Medicine. Dr. Garcia holds a Ph.D. in evolutionary biology and M.S. in biomedical anthropology from Binghamton University and an Executive Certificate in Public Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School.An award-winning researcher and educator, Dr. Garcia has consulted with a variety of industry partners, and he is currently the Chief Scientific Advisor to Match where he provides expertise for the annual Singles in America study. His research has been featured widely in the media and focuses on people’s romantic and sexual lives throughout the life course, especially on integrative biopsychosocial models of variation in courtship, intimacy, and sexual behavior.</p> <h5><em><strong>Resources for Why Long-Term Love Gets Complicated: A Scientific Approach with Dr. Justin Garcia (291)</strong></em></h5> <p><a href="https://kinseyinstitute.org/about/staff/executive-director-justin-garcia.html">Justin Garcia</a> &#8211; The Kinsey Institute: Biography and other information</p> <p><a href="https://kinseyinstitute.org/research/intimate-animal.html">The Intimate Animal</a> &#8211; Dr. Garcia&#8217;s new book, <a href="https://kinseyinstitute.org/research/intimate-animal.html">order here!</a></p> <hr /> <h3><strong><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas">Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!  </a></strong></h3> <p>Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-19737 alignleft" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Course-Logo-Options-Thumbnails-300x300.png" alt="" width="163" height="163" /> who you are and how you connect with others.</p> <p>Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&#38;A&#8217;s!</p> <p><strong>Earn 6 Continuing Education</strong> Credits – Available at Checkout</p> <p>As a listener of this podcast, <a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/bas"><strong>use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount</strong>.</a></p> <hr /> <p><a href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-19612 " src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/join-our-premium-platforms-1-2-300x113.png" alt="" width="446" height="168" /></a><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-17401" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png" sizes="(max-width: 94px) 100vw, 94px" srcset="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1-236x300.png 236w, https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SecureRelating-NextBigIdea-1.png 471w" alt="" width="94" height="119" /></a></p> <h4><a href="http://securerelatingbook.com/">Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!</a></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1"><strong>You are invited! </strong></h4> <h4 data-wp-editing="1">Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! <span style="color: #0000ff;"><em><strong><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="http://therapistuncensored.com/join">Click here!!</a></strong></em></span></h4> <hr /> <h3 style="text-align: right;">Join us again in Washington, DC for the 49th Annual Psychotherapy Networker!</h3> <h4 style="text-align: right;">March 19-22nd! In person and online options available. <span style="color: #0000ff;"><a style="color: #0000ff;" href="https://my.pesi.partners/782NWPK/2N4885R/">Get your discounted seat HERE!</a></span></h4> <h4 style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://my.pesi.partners/782NWPK/2N4885R/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.psychnetworker.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2026-PN-Symp_cvent_600-x-150.png" alt="2026 Symposium Registration. Live from Washington, DC!" width="600" height="150" /></a></h4> <hr /> <h2 data-wp-editing="1"><strong>Please support our sponsors &#8211; they keep our podcast <em>free</em> and <em>accessible to all</em>! </strong></h2> <p><a href="http://talkiatry.com/tu"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-20343" src="https://therapistuncensored.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/talkiatry--300x80.png" alt="" width="195" height="52" /></a>Talkiatry is a 100% online psychiatry practice that provides comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses, and ongoing medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more. Head to <a href="http://Talkiatry.com/TU">Talkiatry.com/TU</a> and complete the short assessment to get matched with an in‑network psychiatrist in just a few minutes.</p>
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67 MIN