The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

Latest Episodes:

416: David Burns MD - "Feeling Good" Legend on Life, Legacy, and His New AI App Sep 27, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Dr. David Burns, a true legend in the field of mental health. Dr. Burns is not only a pioneer of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but he's also the best-selling author of Feeling Good and Feeling Great, which have collectively sold millions of copies worldwide. Spending so much time with him was a real treat, as he shared his incredible insights into mental health, his innovative T.E.A.M. Therapy method, and his groundbreaking Feeling Great App.

We talked about how his methods are helping people achieve rapid and lasting recovery from depression, anxiety, and other difficult emotions, sometimes in just one session. Dr. Burns also gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how his AI-driven app is transforming mental health treatment, making it accessible and effective for people everywhere.

This conversation was truly fascinating, and I'm sure you'll find a ton of value in it. Whether you're familiar with Dr. Burns' work or hearing about him for the first time, you'll come away with practical advice and a deeper understanding of how to break free from the emotional patterns holding you back.

In this episode, we cover:

Dr. Burns' early work with CBT and how it evolved into T.E.A.M. Therapy.
The creation and impact of the Feeling Great App, and how it leverages AI to deliver therapy.
Why measuring progress in therapy is essential and how data-driven methods are changing the field.
The common cause behind many negative emotions, and how to tackle it.
Dr. Burns' unique approach to therapy—including why he hasn't charged for sessions in over 30 years.

Links:

https://feelinggood.com/

https://www.feelinggreat.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@UCEgz2rq7N1xCHMCcjdyU5zg

https://feelinggood.com/books/

Reach out!

http://duffthepsych.com/contact

duffthepsych@gmail.com

415: Latino Mental Health, Machismo, and Vulnerability as Strength with Dr. Paul Rivera Sep 20, 2024

Show notes

Breaking Boundaries: Dr. Paul Rivera on Redefining Success and Masculinity

In this episode, Dr. Paul Rivera, a first-generation Latino American, shares his inspiring journey navigating cultural expectations and his pursuit of a fulfilling life. From his early challenges growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Los Angeles to his prestigious roles as a professor and diplomat, Dr. Rivera discusses the importance of discovering one's unique superpower, embracing vulnerability as a strength, and redefining traditional notions of masculinity.

Together with his wife, Dr. Rivera co-founded BE ACT Change, an organization focused on aligning individuals and organizations with their purpose. He also discusses their book, 'Creating Your Limitless Life,' which provides insights into achieving authentic success beyond material trappings. Tune in for valuable lessons on mental health, family dynamics, and sustainable change.

https://www.instagram.com/be.act.change https://www.amazon.com/CREATING-YOUR-LIMITLESS-LIFE-Terms/dp/B0CHL3RW4L

Sponsored by 23andMe, promoting proactive steps for health through genetic screening and personalized plans. http://23andme.com/duff

00:00 Introduction: Dreams and Expectations 00:25 Meet Dr. Paul Rivera: A Journey of Defying Expectations 01:28 Navigating Cultural Expectations and Personal Aspirations 02:22 Interview with Dr. Paul Rivera: Early Life and Influences 03:12 Growing Up Latino in Los Angeles 06:33 Balancing Work, Culture, and Personal Identity 18:30 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth 23:56 Challenging Machismo and Embracing Vulnerability 29:50 The Power of Vulnerability 30:38 Creating Safe Spaces at Home 32:11 Community Outreach and Education 33:47 Recognizing and Nurturing Potential 35:07 Discovering Your Superpower 37:03 Empowering Women in Leadership 39:04 Building Trust and Overcoming Barriers 40:21 The Journey to Self-Discovery 42:36 From Diplomacy to Entrepreneurship 43:32 The Mission of BeActChange 51:21 Advice for Feeling Stuck 56:30 Final Thoughts and Resources

414: Does COVID-19 Make ADHD Worse? Sep 13, 2024

Show notes

Managing ADHD and Long COVID: Strategies for Cognitive Challenges In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff addresses a listener's question about the impact of COVID-19 on ADHD symptoms. The listener shares their struggles with ADHD and how contracting long COVID has exacerbated their cognitive difficulties, impacting their academic performance and daily life. Dr. Duff delves into the comorbidity of ADHD with other mental health issues, discusses research on post-COVID syndrome, and offers practical advice for seeking accommodations and support. He emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and provides steps for managing ADHD symptoms effectively. Tune in for compassionate guidance and actionable strategies to navigate ADHD in the context of long COVID.

00:00 Introduction: ADHD and COVID-19 Impact 00:33 Listener's Question: Struggles with ADHD and Long COVID 02:14 Host's Response: Acknowledging the Struggles 03:04 Understanding ADHD and Comorbidities 04:39 COVID-19's Cognitive Impact 08:16 Executive Functioning Explained 10:20 Practical Advice and Encouragement 13:21 Seeking Help and Accommodations 17:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

413: Therapy Search is BROKEN w/ Colleen Marshall from Two Chairs Sep 06, 2024

Show notes

Revolutionizing Therapy: Colleen Marshall on Two Chairs' Matching Process

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff interviews Colleen Marshall, Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs, a company dedicated to improving the therapy experience through innovative matching processes and measurement-based care. They discuss the current challenges in finding a suitable therapist, the importance of therapeutic alliance, and how Two Chairs' approach significantly improves client retention rates. Colleen also shares insights into her background, the systematic changes needed in therapy cultures, and the importance of culturally responsive training. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how Two Chairs is transforming mental health care by ensuring clients find the right therapist for their specific needs and continually measure treatment progress.

00:00 The Broken Process of Finding a Therapist

01:04 Introducing Two Chairs: Revolutionizing Therapy Matching

01:52 Meet Colleen Marshall: Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs

02:44 Colleen's Journey in Mental Health and Innovation

06:22 The Importance of Therapeutic Alliance and Matching

10:17 How Two Chairs Ensures Effective Therapy

16:53 Challenges and Successes in Implementing Measurement-Based Care

28:56 Balancing Wellness and Specialty Training

29:23 Efficient Care and Graduation Goals

31:03 Insurance and Access to Therapy

32:04 Therapist's Role in Client Progress

33:52 Matching Clients with the Right Therapist

36:07 Navigating Therapy Models and Approaches

47:13 Two Chairs: Availability and Process

51:11 Future of Therapy and Cultural Responsiveness

53:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

412: Abandonment by Husband & Addicted to Checking Phone Aug 30, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I address two intense and relatable listener questions.

The first question comes from a listener who feels abandoned by their spouse after a traumatic car accident left them with PTSD and potential brain injury. I provide insights on the possible brain injuries they might have sustained, while also discussing the complexities of their strained relationship and offering practical advice for moving forward.

In the second question, a listener struggles with constant phone checking and tech addiction. I offer actionable tips for managing phone usage, including identifying and challenging assumptions, creating a conscious phone use plan, and finding accountability.

This episode aims to provide support, clarity, and practical guidance for listeners dealing with trauma, relationship challenges, and tech overdependence.

This episode is brought to you by NoCD. Overthinking can be more than just a habit—it might be a symptom of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). NoCD provides virtual therapy sessions with licensed therapists specialized in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, the gold standard treatment for OCD. To learn more, visit http://nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:16 Listener's Question: Dealing with Trauma and Relationship Issues 02:33 Understanding Brain Injuries from Car Accidents 08:05 Addressing Relationship Concerns and Seeking Separation 08:11 Sponsor Break: NoCD 15:14 Listener's Question: Overcoming Phone Addiction 17:07 Tips for Reducing Phone Usage 25:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Please send questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com

411: Reparenting and Attachment with Dr. Judy Ho Aug 23, 2024

Show notes

Breaking Cycles: How Attachment Shapes Our Lives with Dr. Judy Ho

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, host Dr. Duff interviews neuropsychologist Dr. Judy Ho, a tenured professor at Pepperdine University and author of 'The New Rules of Attachment.' They discuss why people often find themselves stuck in repetitive cycles despite different strategies and self-care routines. Dr. Ho explains the significance of revisiting one's past to break patterns, diving deep into attachment theory. They explore how early attachments form who we are, why it's essential to recognize childhood traumas, and the role of self-talk in attachment styles. Dr. Ho also shares her personal parenting insights and the importance of forming a secure attachment with oneself. Additionally, they delve into actionable exercises from Dr. Ho's book that help uncover unmet needs of our inner child and promote lasting change. Tune in for an in-depth conversation about the transformative power of understanding and healing our attachments.

This episode is brought to you by NOCD, a powerful new network of providers specializing in exposure and response prevention. Get treatment for OCD that actually works at http://nocd.com

This episode is also sponsored by BetterHelp – get 10% off your first month of online therapy at http://betterhelp.com/duff

Links!

https://www.amazon.com/New-Rules-Attachment-Relationships-Reparent/dp/1538741423

https://www.instagram.com/drjudyho

https://drjudyho.com/

00:00 Introduction: Breaking the Cycle

00:40 Meet Dr. Judy Ho

01:14 The Importance of Early Attachments

02:46 Personal Stories and Apologies

05:47 Journey into Psychology

18:10 Understanding Attachment Styles

30:11 Understanding Attachment Styles and Self-Talk

31:27 The Challenge of Changing Self-Talk

32:26 The Importance of Patience in Forming New Habits

33:14 Recognizing Overthinking and OCD

35:07 The Mind-Body Connection in Attachment

37:25 Inner Child Work and Self-Attachment

40:22 Practical Steps for Inner Child Healing

44:45 A Real-Life Transformation Story

53:22 Balancing Career and Personal Life

57:04 Parenting and Attachment

01:00:08 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Reflections

410: Being a Weirdo SAVED Tony Weaver Jr. Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff chats with Tony Weaver Jr., an award-winning author and educator dedicated to mental health advocacy and better representation in media. Tony shares his personal journey from feeling like an outcast in his teenage years, including a suicide attempt, to becoming a force for positivity and change. He discusses how his upbringing in Atlanta and breakthroughs like hearing Fall Out Boy's music shaped his path to self-acceptance and creative expression. Tony also delves into the importance of representation in media, recounting his experiences creating the webcomic 'The Uncommons' and his upcoming autobiographical graphic novel 'Weirdo.' Furthermore, he offers practical advice for children and parents navigating the challenges of embracing individuality in a conformist world. Tune in to hear his inspiring story, candid reflections on the role of conflict in growth, and his passionate stand on bettering cultural narratives through inclusive storytelling. Links!

Weirdo: https://rep.club/products/weirdo

The Uncommons: https://www.webtoons.com/en/action/the-uncommons/list?title_no=4520

Tony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyweaverjr/

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Feeling Like the Odd One Out 00:24 Meet Tony Weaver Jr.: From Darkness to Advocacy 01:13 Tony's Creative Journey and Representation 01:38 Interview with Tony Weaver Jr. 02:52 Tony's Upbringing and Early Influences 04:45 The Struggles of Embracing Otherness 09:05 The Creation of 'Weirdo' 13:05 Mental Health and Personal Growth 26:36 Inner Child Work and Reparenting 27:13 Parents' Reactions to the Book 27:33 A Life-Changing Car Accident 28:40 Reflecting on Childhood and Authority 30:17 The Importance of Conflict and Support 35:21 Representation in Media 37:01 The Impact of Representation on Society 43:40 Challenges in Hollywood and Progress 49:40 Promoting the Book 'Weirdo' 52:35 Final Thoughts and Where to Follow

409: Are You Afraid of Breathing? Aug 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Duff shares personal experiences and discusses the concept of being afraid of breathing. He highlights how anxiety and overthinking can lead to the sensation of not breathing properly. Dr. Duff explains how exposure therapy can be applied using breathing exercises to help alleviate these fears. He provides detailed instructions on different challenging breathing exercises like alternate nostril breathing, resonance breathing, and techniques inspired by the Wim Hof method and the Cradle series. The episode aims to help listeners gain comfort with discomfort and regain confidence in their breathing.

00:00 Introduction: Are You Afraid of Breathing? 00:02 A Personal Story of Breathing Anxiety 00:57 The Cycle of Anxiety and Breathing 01:50 Common Experiences and Avoidance 03:37 Using Breathing Exercises for Exposure 04:12 Understanding Exposure Therapy 07:38 Challenging Breathing Exercises 07:59 Alternate Nostril Breathing 10:40 Resonance Breathing 13:38 The Heaven and Earth Purification Wheel 15:16 Practicing in a Safe Space 16:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

http://betterhelp.com/duff

http://duffthepsych.com/contact

408: Unveiling Invisible Loss: Christina Rasmussen's Journey Through Grief Aug 02, 2024

Show notes

In episode 408 of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I'm joined by grief educator and author Christina Rasmussen.

We delve deep into the concept of invisible loss, a unique form of grief that stems from unacknowledged experiences. Christina opens up about her personal grief journey, introduces the Life Reentry Process, and shares insights from her book, 'Invisible Loss.' We also explore how early childhood experiences shape adult decision-making, the transformative power of authenticity, and Christina's venture into using art for healing. Christina discusses her creation of a digital library of invisible losses and reflects on the significance of Andrew Wyeth's painting 'Christina's World.' Join us for actionable tips and profound reflections on navigating and reclaiming life after hidden struggles.

Links:

Books - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Christina-Rasmussen/author/B0057K44UU

https://lifereentry.com/

https://www.invisiblelosses.com/

https://springshow.academyart.edu/schools/fine-art/students/christina-rasmussen/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Invisible Loss 00:45 Meet Christina Rasmussen 01:17 Christina's Personal Journey with Grief 03:30 Early Life and Education 08:13 Navigating Life After Loss 11:08 The Birth of Life Reentry Process 32:12 Invisible Loss Defined 43:39 Starting the Program and Writing Invisible Loss 44:01 Challenges of Writing About Invisible Loss 44:24 The Concept of Invisible Loss 46:48 Men and Invisible Loss 47:59 The Importance of Self-Expression 49:01 The Role of Therapy and Support Groups 52:38 Time Dilation and Seeking Help 53:32 Ambitious Work and Personal Transformation 56:33 Balancing Art and Professional Life 01:03:00 The Journey of Writing and Sharing Vulnerable Moments 01:13:34 The Impact of Panic Attacks and Authenticity 01:19:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

407: Am I Just My Anxiety Now? Dealing with Extreme Anxiety and Career Changes Jul 26, 2024

Show notes

Navigating Intense Anxiety and Career Changes

Hello, friends! In today's episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that may resonate with many of you:

Managing Severe Anxiety: A listener is struggling with intense daily anxiety and dissociation, impacting their ability to function in daily tasks like going to work or shopping. We discuss immediate tips, potential medical checks, and therapy approaches to manage anxiety effectively.

Considering a Career Shift: Another listener is contemplating a career change from music education to educational psychology. They seek advice on the feasibility, job prospects, and resources to pursue this new career path.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode407

00:00 Introduction to Anxiety 00:17 Episode Overview and Listener Questions 00:56 Engaging with the Community 01:45 Addressing Severe Anxiety 05:15 Exploring Medical and Therapeutic Options 11:24 Understanding Anxiety and Fear 20:43 Career Change Considerations 28:10 Conclusion and Farewell

This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Head over to http://betterhelp.com/duff for 10% off your first month.

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