Shrinks on the Brink

In this first part of a deeply personal two-part series, we talk about the physical side of health struggles - the diagnoses, injuries, and moments that changed how we move through the world. We share our own medical stories with honesty and humor, including chronic illness, injuries, and the losses that come with them - especially when your go-to coping skills disappear overnight. This episode is...

Why does boredom feel so uncomfortable now? And why do we avoid it at all costs? In this episode, we unpack why boredom has become almost intolerable in modern life - and what our brains are actually doing when we reach for our phones, snacks, scrolling, or anything to escape stillness. We talk habit loops, dopamine, discomfort, and why "just sit with it" feels impossible for so many of...

Ever wonder why you know what to do... but still can't seem to do it? In this episode, we break down why habits are so hard to change - and it's not because you lack motivation or discipline. We talk about how the brain, nervous system, and past experiences work together to keep patterns in place, even when they no longer serve us. We unpack: Why willpower alone doesn't work How stress...

Sight, sound, touch, tase, smell - our senses shape how we remember the world. In this episode, we dive into the surprising ways sensory experiences can trigger vivid memories, emotions, and even moments we thought we'd forgotten. From childhood nostalgia to unexpected sensory flashbacks, we explore how the body and mind are connected, and why certain sights, sounds, or smells hit harder than...

It's the New Year - and instead of pressure, resolutions, or pretending we have it all figured out, we're talking honestly about what it's like to carry old patterns into a new calendar year. In this episode, we unpack the emotional weight people bring into January, the expectations we inherit (and internalize), and how change actually happens - slowly, imperfectly, and often through b...

In this episode, we're talking about money - and all the emotions that come with it. Stress, shame, avoidance, anxiety, control, comparison... finances are rarely just about numbers. We unpack how our money stories are shaped by upbringing, survival, trauma, and nervous systems - and why financial struggles don't mean you're irresponsible or failing. From avoidance and overspending to...

It's a special treat this holiday season! We start with the classic Elf on the Shelf story... then, because we can't help ourselves, we present our very own The Therapist on the Shelf version. Expect cozy laughs, gentle holiday chaos, and all the insights that happen when elves start reframing behavior, checking in on feelings, and facilitating family dynamics. Whether you're a fan of...

Winter hits different - and not always in a cozy way. Join us as we unpack Seasonal Affective Disorder: why your brain feels heavier, why you crave sleep (or cookies), and how small shifts can make a huge difference. We talk science, symptoms, and real-life coping, plus the weird little things we do to stay sane when the sun ghosts us for months.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Lou Anne Bates to explore the emotional, physical, and invisible load carried by caregivers. From advocating for loved ones to navigating the mental strain of constant responsibility, Lou Anne opens up about the realities most people never see. We talk burnout, boundaries, compassion fatigue, guilt, resentment, identity loss, and the complic...

Ever felt that "whoa" moment that makes everything pause for a second? Turns out, awe isn't just a feel-good emotion - it has legit mental and physical health benefits. In this episode, we break down the science behind awe, why your brain loves wonder, and how tiny everyday moments can acutally regulate your nervous system. From sunsets to small acts of kindness, we're talking pr...

The holidays are here… and so is the stress! 🎁 Join therapists Austin McDonough and Kellie Campbell as they unwrap the messy emotions behind family gatherings, unrealistic expectations, and that one relative who always has one too many spiked eggnogs. Grab a snack, lower the bar, and remember—you’re allowed to enjoy the season imperfectly.

This week on Shrinks on the Brink , Austin and Kellie sit down with a licensed EMDR therapist to explore Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing—an evidence-based approach to trauma treatment. They discuss the origins of EMDR, how it helps the brain reprocess painful memories, and common myths surrounding trauma therapy. Perfect for anyone curious about EMDR or considering it for themselves.

This week on Shrinks on the Brink , Austin and Kellie sit down with a licensed EMDR therapist to explore Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing—an evidence-based approach to trauma treatment. They discuss the origins of EMDR, how it helps the brain reprocess painful memories, and common myths surrounding trauma therapy. Perfect for anyone curious about EMDR or considering it for themselves.

We're tired, you're tired, and sleep hygiene sounds fake anyways. Let's talk bedtime sabotage, why we can't log off, and what to do about it.

It's spooky season, and we're taking "true crime" to a whole new level. This week, we dissect the chilling Schabusiness case - through the eyes of two therapists who can't help but ask: what really makes someone snap? Content warning: Contains graphic descriptions of violence and sensitive mental health topics. Listener discretion advised.

Hot flashes, brain fog, and emotional whiplash - oh my! In this episode, we dive headfirst into the chaos that is perimenopause. We're talking hormones, mood swings, sleep struggles, and all the things no one warned us about. Whether you're in it, approaching it, or just here for the stories, we're unpacking the physical and emotional rollercoaster with our usual blend of humor and hon...

There's a big difference between enjoying your own company and feeling completely cut off. In this episode, we explore the fine line between solitude and isolation, why alone time can be healing, and when it might be hurting you. Packed with real stories, laughs, and insight, we'll help you figure out how to embrace alone time without getting trapped in loneliness.

Ever feel like your brain just won't quit? In this episode, we dive into the downright exhausting moments of anxiety and overthinking. We share real stories, therapist insights, and a few laughs along the way - because sometimes surviving your own thoughts is easier with company. Tune in for tips, honesty, and the reassurance that you're not alone in your mental chaos.

No one wants to rawdog life. In this episode, we're diving into the messy, funny, and sometimes all-too-relatable world of coping skills and addiction. From caffeine habits to "just one more episode" binges, we get real about the ways we try (and fail) to manage stress. Join us for honest stories, plenty of laughs, and maybe a reminder that healthier coping is possible - even if we d...

From endless scrolling to online drama, social media can fuel anxiety, comparison, and even strain family dynamics. In this episode, we dig into the highs and lows of living online, explore how it affects mental health, and share practical tools to set boundaries and stay grounded. Tune in for real talk, strategies you can use today, and a few laughs along the way.

Backpacks, buses, and big feelings - back to school isn't just tough on kids, it's tough on parents too. In this episode, we unpack the stress, routines, and emotions that come with the season, and share practical tips to help your whole family transition more smoothly.

Attachment issues? We've got them too. In this episode, we break down the different attachment styles - secure, anxious, avoidant, disorganized - and talk about how they show up in everyday relationships. From childhood roots to adult dynamics, we're unpacking why we connect (or disconnect) the way we do. And of course, we'll keep it real, a little funny, and hopefully leave you feelin...

Ever find yourself bending over backwards for others while your own needs take a back seat? In this episode, we're unpacking codependency - what it actually means, how it sneaks into relationships, and why it can leave you feeling drained, resentful, or invisible. We'll talk about where codependent patterns come from, how to recognize them in your own life, and simple strategies to start b...

Narcissism - its a word thrown around everywhere, but what does it actually look like in relationships, work, and therapy? In this episode, we break down the traits, the cycle of narcissistic abuse, and the toll it takes on mental health. We'll share real therapist insights, sprinkle some humor (because sometimes you have to laugh at the chaos), and talk about how to recognize red flags and start...

Why is it so hard to set boundaries without feeling like the "bad guy"? In this episode, we unpack why boundaries matter, how to actually set them, and the guilt that often follows. You'll hear real, vulnerable stories and practical tools for holding the line without losing yourself. Because sometimes protecting your peace means saying no - and that's more than okay.