Therapy on a Tangent

In this special episode of Therapy on a Tangent , Natalie and Zori trade deep media analysis for something a little more relaxed: playing Stardew Valley together and seeing what happens . "The Beach Episode: No Plot, Just Vibes" is exactly what it sounds like! As we tend our crops, wander off on questionable side quests, and inevitably analyze ourselves along the way, we reflect on how o...

In this episode of Therapy on a Tangent , Natalie and Zori dive into the double-edged sword of modern technology. From instant access to information, entertainment, and connection, tech has made life more convenient than ever...but at what cost? Together, they explore how the constant availability of quick rewards and instant gratification can affect attention, patience, and cognitive development,...

In Part 2 of our Studio Ghibli mini-series, Natalie and Zori explore the deeper themes woven throughout many Ghibli films—rest, burnout, girlhood, and caring for the world around us. From quiet moments of pause to stories of young girls navigating complex worlds, these films offer a powerful reminder that softness, curiosity, and connection can be forms of strength. Together, they reflect on how G...

In Part 1 of our two-part Studio Ghibli mini-series, Natalie and Zori reflect on their personal histories with Ghibli films and the deep sense of comfort, wonder, and meaning these movies have carried across different stages of their lives. From childhood escapism to adult reflection, they explore how the same stories can meet us differently depending on who we are and what we’re navigating at the...

In the final episode of our Arcane Bonds mini-series, Natalie and Zori turn the spotlight to one of Arcane’s most quietly compelling characters: Viktor. From his complicated friendship with Jayce, to the brief but impactful presence of Sky, to the haunting mentorship of Singed, Viktor’s relationships reveal just how deeply human his journey truly is—despite his pursuit of something beyond human li...

While Natalie is taking a much-deserved break (we miss you, Player 1! 💛), Zori teams up with our very first guest co-host, the brilliant Dr. Breon Rose! 🌟 In this special episode, Zori and Breon, friends and fellow nerds, dive into Breon's research on racially and ethnically diverse gamers in digital gaming spaces and exploring how identity, representation, and gaming culture intersect with...

In the second episode of our Arcane Bonds mini-series, Natalie and Zori dive deep into the romantic and emotionally charged relationships of Arcane. Through the lens of attachment theory, they explore what makes Vi and Caitlyn’s dynamic both tender and tense, how Mel and Jayce’s intimacy dances with political ambition, and the unspoken ache between Jinx/Powder and Ekko. Whether you’re anxiously at...

In this episode, Natalie and Zori dive into the world of tarot cards and horoscopes—not as fortune-telling tools, but as reflective practices for mindfulness, intention-setting, and self-awareness. Whether you’re a skeptic or someone who owns five tarot decks, this conversation explores how pulling a card or checking your horoscope can be a grounding ritual, a source of affirmation, and even a cre...

🌀 In the debut episode of our new mini-series Arcane Bonds, Natalie and Zori dive into the explosive and emotional sibling relationship between Jinx and Vi from the Arcane series. From shared trauma and abandonment to loyalty, guilt, and identity, this episode unpacks how early attachment wounds and survival instincts can shape—and shatter—sisterhood. Whether you see it as tragic, hopeful, or a b...

From glass slippers to enchanted roses, Disney Princesses have captivated audiences for generations. But what is it about these royal heroines that resonates so deeply with us? In this episode of Therapy on a Tangent, Natalie and Zori explore the psychology behind Disney Princesses, why we connect with them, and what each princess reveals about girlhood, identity, and societal expectations. Whethe...

In this episode of Therapy on a Tangent , Natalie and Zori dive into the world of fanfiction and explore how it can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, community-building, and self-care. Whether it’s rewriting canon to process emotions, finding representation in fan-created stories, or simply escaping into a world of comfort, fanfiction has a unique way of supporting positive mental health. Joi...

🍿We've all been there—endlessly scrolling through social media, rewatching the same comfort show for the tenth time, or binging reality TV that requires zero brainpower. But is this kind of "junk food" entertainment actually restful? 🤔 In this episode of Therapy on a Tangent, Natalie and Zori dive into the world of mindless media. When is it a necessary escape, and when does it lea...

We’re back for Season 2 of Therapy on a Tangent! 🎉 In our first episode, we dive into the challenges of media overload—especially during times of social injustice. With constant news updates, endless scrolling, and a flood of content, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Natalie and Zori discuss ways to consume media mindfully, set healthy boundaries, and stay informed without burning out. Plus, they e...

In this festive episode of Therapy on a Tangent, Natalie and Zori share their favorite holiday movies and shows that bring them comfort, joy, and a touch of nostalgia during the most wonderful time of the year. From classic tales of family and togetherness to quirky, underrated gems, their list is sure to spark your own holiday spirit! But it’s not all tinsel and snowflakes—Natalie and Zori also d...

In this episode of Therapy on a Tangent, Natalie and Zori dive into the powerful themes of generational trauma through the lenses of Encanto and Turning Red. From family expectations to inherited wounds, they explore how animated stories can help us see—and start to heal—the generational patterns in our own lives. Plus, they share tips for navigating the holiday season when family dynamics are com...

👾Get ready to dive deep into the world of Role-Playing Games (RPGs) with Natalie and Zori on Episode 4 of Therapy on a Tangent! From creating characters to making pivotal in-game choices, RPGs have a way of revealing who we are, who we aspire to be, and even how we navigate life’s challenges. Whether you're a dedicated gamer or just curious, this episode sheds light on the insights hidden within...

Just in time for Spooky Month, Natalie and Zori dive into the world of spooky movies, games, and more in this Halloween-themed episode! 🎮🎬 Whether you find comfort in horror or use it to safely face your fears, Episode 3 has all the thrills and chills! Follow Us! ⁠Podcast Instagram ⁠ ⁠TikTok ⁠ ⁠Natalie's IG ⁠ ⁠Zori's IG ⁠ Intro and outro music by ⁠⁠melodyayresgriffiths⁠ ⁠

In this episode of Therapy on a Tangent, Natalie and Zori take you on an emotional journey through Inside Out 1 and 2! Together, they break down how these movies showcase the complexity of emotions and can help clients—no matter their age—find the language to start conversations about their own feelings. Whether you're a fan of Joy, Sadness, or even Anger, this episode is all about embracing our i...

In episode 1 of Therapy on a Tangent , our geeky therapists Natalie and Zori introduce themselves and dive into how video games like Stardew Valley can be a healthy escape from the stress of everyday life. From planting crops to building friendships, they explore how cozy games can boost mental wellness. If you’re a fan of gaming AND self-care, this podcast is for you! 🎙️🌱 Follow Therapy on a Tan...