"Podcast Therapy with Dr. Z" isn't just another podcast. It's where the Orthodox community opens up about the things we usually keep to ourselves. Hosted by Dr. Shloimie (Steven) Zimmerman, a respected figure and therapist, this call-in show offers a rare space to discuss personal struggles and seek professional advice. No topic is too taboo. Whether you're dealing with something big or small, Dr. Z is here to listen and help. Tune in to be part of a conversation that's all about understanding, healing, and connecting.
Podcast Therapy with Dr. Z on the Living Lchaim Network:
PODCAST HEALTHCARE DISCLAIMER
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide healthcare advice. I, Dr. Shloimie [Steven] Zimmerman, Psy.D. and the Living Lchaim make every effort to ensure that information given in the podcast is complete and accurate. Please understand though, that mental health care is a constantly changing science and art. Further, one psychotherapist may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on how to deal with challenges that will be as evidence based as possible. I welcome any comments, suggestions, or correction of errors. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use it as medical or mental health advice to treat any medical or mental health condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients whom you are treating if you yourself are a healthcare professional. Advice given on the podcast cannot substitute for, and is not an alternative to, medical or other healthcare diagnosis and treatment when a medical or mental health condition or illness is present. Consult your own healthcare provider for any medical or mental health issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall I, Living Lchaim, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of mine be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
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In this special episode, presented in partnership with Amudim and moderated by Andy Lauber, Rav Efrem Goldberg joins Dr. Zimmerman for a powerful conversation about the emotional and spiritual toll of the ongoing war in Israel. As fear and anxiety weigh heavily on so many, especially those with children or loved ones in Israel, they explore how we can stay grounded without dismissing our very real emotions. Together, they offer a framework for navigating these uncertain times with faith, perspec...
In this moving episode, we meet Esty, who grew up in a turbulent home marked by conflict and a painful family secret that shaped her sense of self. Carrying deep feelings of toxic shame, Esty has long struggled to be vulnerable, especially within her marriage. Opening up felt unsafe, not just with others, but even with herself. With Dr. Zimmerman’s guidance, Esty begins to uncover the root of her guardedness and the fear that comes with facing her own emotions. Together, they navigate the delica...
In this deeply personal episode, we meet Noach, who grew up feeling like an outsider- never getting into the top classes and struggling with a sense of not being good enough. His journey took on a new layer when his son, a bright and capable student, was denied entry into the top Gemara classes due to learning challenges. This experience reignited feelings of exclusion and self-doubt, leading Noach to confront the broader struggle of feeling unaccepted by society, by God, and even by oneself. Th...
In this powerful episode, we meet Rachel, a woman whose early life was marked by the deep scars of sexual abuse inflicted by her brother. Initially drawn to therapy by memories and emerging triggers, it was the collapse of a serious relationship that finally pushed her to confront the wounds of her past. Under the guidance of Dr. Z, Rachel embarks on a transformative journey to acknowledge and confront her trauma, emphasizing the vital importance of disclosure and healing. This episode lays bare...
In this powerful episode, we meet Mimi, a woman whose childhood was shaped by the challenges of growing up with a mother who had borderline personality disorder. Mimi shares the profound impact of her upbringing, including feelings of toxic shame, never feeling “enough,” and an inability to experience true love. Dr. Z helps Mimi navigate her pain, leading to a remarkable breakthrough through light and love. This episode offers hope and insight into the power of healing and transformation. To be ...
In this deeply personal episode, our guest shares her journey of navigating life with a brother who has left the path of religious observance (OTD) and struggles with mental health challenges. She reflects on how his journey impacted her own—shaping her values, her relationships, and ultimately her approach to life and G-d. Dr. Z addresses the guest’s confusion at G-d, offers insights on resilience, and how we can hold space for those closest to us, even when our paths diverge. This episode is a...
This episode reflects on the Ten Days of Repentance, featuring Yanky’s journey of healing and repentance. He shares how his trauma led him to behaviors he was deeply ashamed of. Ultimately, Yanky embraced internal work, change, and forgiveness. As Yom Kippur nears, Dr. Z offers insights into healing, moving past our past, and transformation thereby reminding us of our power to break negative cycles, return to our true selves, and bring light to the darkest places. To be a future guest (yes, we c...
Trigger Warning: This episode deals with emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and suicide. We delve into a harrowing story of abuse and survival. Our guest, who endured physical and emotional abuse from his parents and was molested by a community member, shares his painful journey. Having cut off communication with his parents, he struggles with anger and questions whether confronting them could bring peace. Dr. Z provides profound insights into processing past trauma, emphasizing the importanc...
Leah, a busy mother, wife, and full-time employee, calls in to discuss her struggles with self-care. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that Leah's challenges are deeply rooted in her childhood experiences and the immense pressure she places on herself. Doctor Z helps Leah explore the emotional and psychological barriers preventing her from prioritizing self-care, revealing a complex interplay of past traumas, current responsibilities, and internal conflicts. This episode offers a pro...
This episode provides inspiration and insights for anyone facing life's hurdles. Join us for an empowering session of "Therapy" where Chaya (alias and AI-masked voice) shares her journey with Dr. Z. From battling addiction to facing infidelity and ultimately finding strength as a single mom, Chaya's story is one of resilience and growth. Listen as Dr. Z offers advice and guidance, helping Chaya navigate her path. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.co...
Trigger warning: this episode deals with death and mental illness. Lakewood and the wider Jewish community are reeling from an unthinkable tragedy: a mother had a psychotic break and tragically drowned two of her children. In the face of such profound shock and grief, we are all grappling with how to move forward. Dr. Z addresses the pressing questions we have about this heartbreaking incident and explores broader issues surrounding mental health. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your v...
Atara (alias name and Ai masked voice) and 2 of her kids struggle with ADHD. She asks Dr. Z how to navigate it. This episode also explores how we can cope with mental health challenges and help educate our children. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue": https://plinkhq.com/i/1607752110/e/?to=page Reach out to Dr. Z here: Child and Adult Psychological Ser...
In each episode, Dr. Shloimie Zimmerman will sit down with a real person to discuss their real challenges. In this episode, the caller brings up his unhealthy technology habits. We explore the source of his issue and possible solutions to help mitigate the issue. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue": https://plinkhq.com/i/1607752110/e/?to=page Reach out ...
In each episode, Dr. Shloimie (Steven) Zimmerman will sit down with a real person to discuss their real challenges. This is like no other show in the Jewish world and we're excited you can enjoy and learn from it. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue": https://plinkhq.com/i/1607752110/e/?to=page Lchaim....
