Off The Couch

In this episode, Cheryl and Albery bridge the gap between clinical therapy and grassroots community action. We dive into the reality of being a Black men and men in general in 2026, comparing the socialization shifts we’ve seen since 2020 and exploring how we can hold space for accountability without exile. We are joined by author, writer, and speaker Timothy Moore, to move beyond the mask men wea...

Can ai chatbots truly hold space for your mental health? This episode , AL and Cheryl tackle the complex, rapidly evolving world of AI in mental health. Following a series of bombshell exposés from 404 Media (PLEASE show them love) and TIME , we’re diving into the ethical "edges" of technology—from AI bots impersonating licensed professionals to the dangerous ways these systems can fail...

In this episode of Off the Couch , AL and Cheryl reflect on the current state of social work and mental health in 2025. They explore how recent political developments — particularly efforts by the current U.S. administration to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies — are shaping the future of therapy, mental health services, and social work practice. The conversation is sparked...

In this powerful episode of Off the Couch , hosts Albery and Cheryl continue to discuss the critical and complex topic of domestic violence (DV). They guide listeners through a sensitive yet essential conversation on the realities of DV and the steps everyone can take to help create safer communities. Starting with their own experiences learning about intervention and prevention efforts, the hosts...

In this bonus episode of Off the Couch , Co-host Cheryl and Albery explore the critical intersection of accountability and mental health for men. We start by defining what accountability means in everyday life, particularly for fathers and men in other roles. Accountability isn’t just about showing up—it’s also about owning the consequences of actions, repairing harm, and communicating when you’ve...

In this powerful episode of Off the Couch (with Albery and Cheryl) , we tackle the complex and sensitive issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2024. Join us as we share our personal experiences with how IPV came onto our radar and break down common myths surrounding abuse. We explore the many forms of abusive behaviors, from physical and verbal abus...

In this episode of Off the Couch (with Albery and Cheryl) , explore the growing mental health challenges men are facing in 2024, with a special focus on social anxiety. We discuss why more men are experiencing anxiety in social situations, the barriers that prevent them from seeking help, and practical steps they can take to begin improving their mental health. The hosts also dive into the societa...

In this heartfelt episode of Off the Couch, hosts Albery and Cheryl dive into the complex world of grief, focusing on how it manifests in children and the unique challenges it presents to families. With a special emphasis on fathers, they explore how parents can support their children through the grieving process while managing their own emotions. Offering practical insights and a deep understandi...

In this compelling episode, co-hosts Cheryl and AL tackle a deeply sensitive and often overlooked issue: the sexual assault of men. The conversation begins with AL sharing a powerful social media post from a male colleague recounting his own assault, sparking a broader discussion on the varied reactions it received. Cheryl and AL also delve into how patriarchal norms and rigid societal expectation...

Hey Ya’ll it's Off the Couch. In this episode, Cheryl & Albery discuss the theme of ‘forgiveness,’ specifically forgiving oneself.  Together, they navigate the intricate role forgiveness plays in our journey toward healing and personal growth. In addition, Albery and Cheryl share real-life anecdotes and expert insights on the complex nature of forgiveness in the presence of harm.  Listeners are as...

Hey Ya’ll. It's Off the Couch. In this episode, Albery & Cheryl discuss empathy. They examine the importance and challenges of maintaining empathy in their professional work with men who have perpetrated violence within their partnerships. Albery and Cheryl define empathy and explore the benefits for men who have caused harm to practice empathy (even if emotions might be intense). Cheryl p...

Hey ya’ll in this episode, Co-hosts Cheryl and Al have a discussion on their thoughts on the term “Mental Health”, their experiences in trying to get men into therapy, experiences of providing therapy to men, barriers preventing people from engaging in mental health services, tips on helping a loved one take their mental health a bit more seriously, and much more! Tune in! Would love to follow up...

Hey Ya’ll. It's Off the Couch. In this episode, Cheryl & Albery catch up to discuss the issue of teen dating violence. The conversation is sparked by Albery’s experience working alongside teens in addressing dating violence. The co-host talks through the definition of abuse, examples of the abusive behaviors, and provides support and tips on how to help those affected by dating violence/ab...

In this second episode, Co-host Cheryl and Al continue to discuss their experiences and thoughts on the clinical side of social work and delve more into their collaborative work that allows them to connect with men (fathers). Cheryl and Al briefly discuss the history of abusive partner intervention work, what modality they utilize to work with fathers, and tips for engagement.

In this inaugural episode, two social workers connect to discuss their new endeavor and show, Off the Couch, which aims to address the experiences of social workers from a nonwhite perspective. Cheryl Hurst, LCSW-R, RPT-S, and Albery Abreu, LMSW, discuss the unique work they do with families impacted by DV, how they connected, and their thoughts on the misconceptions of social work and all things...