Savvy Psychologist

Learn practical, evidence-based communication strategies to deepen your relationships and combat loneliness. Psychologist Dr. Monica Johnson shares tips for active listening, vulnerability, and building emotional intimacy. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available here: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/communication-tips-for-deepening-relations...

Sexual desire naturally ebbs and flows, but when it disappears for a while, it can leave you confused, disconnected, or worried. Monica unpacks the most common reasons for low libido—and how to talk about it with your partner without blame or shame. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@...

Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder — or the brain of the perceiver? This week, Monica explores the psychology of attraction, why we’re drawn to certain people, and how looks are only part of the equation. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Ps...

Oversharing can feel like connection in the moment and like regret afterward. In this episode, Monica unpacks the psychology behind why we say too much and how to create healthier boundaries around self-disclosure. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy P...

Gaslighting isn’t just a trendy term, it’s a serious form of emotional abuse that can leave you doubting your reality. Monica Johnson breaks down what gaslighting really is, how to recognize its subtle tactics, and what steps you can take to protect your mental health.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Emai...

Menopause isn’t just a physical transition, it’s an emotional and mental minefield. In this episode, Monica dives into how fluctuating hormones impact mood, anxiety, sleep, and memory, and offers practical, science-backed strategies to feel more like yourself again. Spoiler alert: you’re not going crazy, and yes, brain fog is real. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript i...

Feeling overwhelmed by work, life, and everything in between? Monica breaks down Cognitive Load Theory, a powerful framework that explains why your brain feels like it’s maxed out, and what to do about it.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psycholog...

Confused about whether to see a therapist or a life coach? In this episode, Monica breaks down the key differences between these two professions, including training, scope of practice, and ethical responsibilities. Learn how to choose the right support for your needs. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email...

Why do we love extremes, whether it’s thrill-seeking, viral controversies, or black-and-white thinking? Monica breaks down the psychology behind our attraction to intensity and how we can find balance in a world that rewards the extreme. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirt...

Feeling overwhelmed by the world's chaos? While we can't fix everything, we can hack our brains to boost happiness. In this episode, Monica breaks down the DOSE method: dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. Learn simple, science-backed ways to activate these "happiness hormones" and bring more joy into your daily life. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is av...

Historically speaking, women have not been encouraged to authentically express their sexuality or to have sex-positive attitudes. Dr. Monica Johnson is here to help jump-start your journey on the pleasure train by letting you know about 5 factors that get in your way. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email...

Monica shares how walking can boost mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and enhancing sleep. Learn why this simple activity is a powerful tool for improving well-being and building resilience. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psycholog...

Giving back isn’t just good for the world—it’s good for your mental and physical health, too. In this episode of Savvy Psychologist, Dr. Monica Johnson breaks down the science behind altruism, how volunteering can reduce stress and boost happiness, and why small acts of kindness can transform your well-being. Tune in to discover practical ways to give back that fit your lifestyle. Savvy Psychologi...

Relationships often end due to factors like commitment issues, poor communication, emotional disconnect, and infidelity. In this episode, Monica unpacks the psychology behind breakups, drawing on research and real-world insights to help navigate relationship challenges.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Ema...

Are you truly getting the rest you need? In this episode, Monica explores the seven essential types of rest—physical, mental, emotional, social, sensory, creative, and spiritual—offering practical strategies to help you combat burnout and reclaim your energy. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast. Have a mental health question? Email us at psyc...

Feeling emotionally drained by the news or social media? Monica explores vicarious trauma and shares the E.M.P.O.W.E.R. method, practical steps to set boundaries, manage triggers, and build emotional resilience in 2025.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find S...

In part two of this series, Monica shares five more strategies to help you stick to your goals and make lasting changes. Learn how to reward yourself, remove obstacles, stay accountable, reframe setbacks, and embrace patience with relatable examples and encouragement. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email...

Consistency is the secret to lasting success, but sticking to habits can be a challenge. In this episode, Monica shares five practical, research-backed strategies to help you build habits that stick. Learn how to start small, stack habits, shift your identity, set clear intentions, and track your progress.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast...

Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, the original host of Savvy Psychologist, makes her return to the show to discuss her new book How to Be Enough. Monica dives deep with Dr. Hendriksen into the roots of perfectionism, its impact on self-worth, and practical strategies for embracing self-acceptance. Discover the two pillars of unhealthy perfectionism, how hustle culture exacerbates self-criticism, and actionabl...

Ever feel stuck in a fixed mindset, convinced you’re just “not good” at something? In this episode, Monica introduces the growth mindset—a powerful perspective that turns failures into stepping stones and "I can’t" into "I can’t yet." With practical tips like embracing effort, reframing failures, and welcoming feedback, you'll learn how to build a mindset that fuels progress and resilience. Savvy...

Have trouble coping with your emotions? Here are 5 factors that get in your way and make regulating your emotions harder.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter , or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tip...

In this episode, we dig into what loneliness really is, how it can impact your mental health, and a few tips on how best to combat it.  Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter , or subscribe to the newsletter for more p...

Holidays can be joyful but stressful. Monica shares tips on setting boundaries, simplifying tasks, and prioritizing self-care to navigate the season with balance and find moments of peace. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. A transcript is available at Simplecast . Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook an...

The holidays may be a time for joy and connection, but they also bring stress, anxiety, and financial pressure for many people. In this episode, Monica dives into the research behind the emotional toll of the season, from family dynamics to holiday burnout. She explains why the holidays can feel so draining and why it’s okay to acknowledge the challenges amidst the cheer. Savvy Psychologist is hos...

Living with chronic pain affects both body and mind, but there are ways to regain control and resilience. In this episode, Monica explores evidence-based strategies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practices, and relaxation techniques to help you cope. Learn how to support your mental health while managing the challenges of chronic pain. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Joh...