Therapist Uncensored Podcast - podcast cover

Therapist Uncensored Podcast

Sue Marriott LCSW, CGP & Ann Kelley PhDtherapistuncensored.com
Ranked as one of Apple’s Top 10 Social Science podcasts, Therapist Uncensored delivers trusted, science-backed insights on mental health and secure relationships. With over 11 million downloads worldwide, this female-led, independent podcast puts you right in the therapy room, making powerful psychological insights accessible and actionable. Co-hosts Sue Marriott, LCSW CGP and Ann Kelley, PhD break down complex ideas into practical wisdom you can use immediately. They’re joined by top neuroscientists, world-renown relationship experts and outside-the-box perspectives to share cutting-edge research and strategies for building stronger connections with yourself and others. Shownotes at www.therapistuncensored.com Transform how you understand your mind, your relationships, and yourself.
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Episodes

The Hidden Parts of OCD: ERP, IFS, and Self-Leadership with Melissa Mose (303)

OCD isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about understanding the parts beneath them In the third and final part of our OCD series, expert Melissa Mose explores the complexities of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), discussing evidence-based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can complement traditional approaches. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, Melissa shares practical strategies for navigati...

Jun 23, 20261 hr 11 min

Bonus – Living Beyond the OCD Loop with Ally Kristan (302)

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Bonus – Living Beyond the OCD Loop with Ally Kristan (302) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Ally Kristan, and part two of our three part series on OCD – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! What is OCD really like beyond the stereot...

Jun 16, 202619 min

Why Certainty Isn’t the Answer: OCD, Intrusive Thoughts & Recovery with Dr. Jon Abramowitz (301)

You can’t think your way out of OCD In part one of our three-part series on Anxiety and OCD, Dr. Jon Abramowitz helps us understand why intrusive thoughts are normal, how OCD turns them into a source of distress, and what keeps the cycle going. We explore uncertainty, reassurance-seeking, relationship dynamics, and the research-backed treatments that help people reclaim their lives from OCD.In this conversation, we unpack the surprising truth about intrusive thoughts, why reassurance often backf...

Jun 09, 20261 hr 11 min

300 Episodes In: Why Feedback Is So Hard (300)

Celebrating 300 episodes with one of the hardest relationship skills: feedback. Sue and Ann reflect on a decade of podcasting and dive into one of the the most challenging parts of any relationship: giving and receiving feedback. Through candid personal stories, humor, and clinical insight, they explore how attachment history, defensiveness, trauma, and vulnerability shape the way we handle conflict and communication. This conversation explains why feedback can feel so threatening, how couples g...

May 26, 20261 hr 2 min

Self-Led Sexuality: Reclaiming Intimacy Through IFS with Patricia Rich, LCSW (299)

Sex can feel complicated when our parts get involved Patricia Rich introduces the concept of self-led sexuality — approaching sexuality from curiosity, compassion, and connection rather than fear or conditioning. She explains how understanding our internal “parts” can help individuals navigate conflicting desires, deepen consent, and create greater safety within themselves and their relationships. Explore the complexities of sexuality, emphasizing the importance of self-led sexuality and the int...

May 12, 20261 hr 20 min

Between Two Worlds: Navigating Bicultural Identity with Sahaj Kohli, MA.Ed, LGPC, NCC (298)

What does it mean to belong to more than one world at once? Sahaj Kohli—founder of Brown Girl Therapy and author of What Will People Say? —explores the emotional complexity of bicultural identity, the immigrant experience, and the hidden pressures of being “culturally enough.” Together, we explore how culture shapes mental health, why many therapy models miss the mark for marginalized communities, and what truly culturally responsive care can look like. Sahaj also shares how social media became ...

Apr 28, 202649 minSeason 10Ep. 298

Bonus – The 5 Phases of Divorce: From Heartbreak to Healing with Oona Metz (297)

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Bonus – The 5 Phases of Divorce: From Heartbreak to Healing with Oona Metz (297) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Oona Metz – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! Divorce Isn’t One Moment—It’s 5 Phases Therapist and author Oona Metz...

Apr 21, 202615 minSeason 10Ep. 297

Inner Stability in an Unstable World: Margaret Cullen on Equanimity (296)

Equanimity isn’t about staying calm—it’s about staying present when it matters most Explore the role of equanimity, mindfulness, and compassion in navigating an increasingly complex world. Special guest Margaret Cullen alongside co-host Sue Marriott discuss the evolution of mindfulness in modern culture, the foundations of compassion-based practices, and how these approaches can support resilience and emotional balance. Grounded in both clinical insight and lived practice, this conversation offe...

Apr 14, 202653 min

Where Personal Healing Meets Collective Change with Prentis Hemphill (295)

We don’t heal alone – we heal in connection. Prentis Hemphill, alongside co-host Sue Marriott, traces their path from social organizing to somatic therapy, revealing how personal healing and collective transformation are deeply intertwined. Together, they explore how inherited myths, power dynamics, and collective trauma shape both our inner worlds and our social systems. This episode invites therapists and change makers alike to consider healing as more than an individual process—it’s relationa...

Mar 31, 202650 minSeason 10Ep. 295

Bonus – Hormones, Libido, and the Missing Conversation About Women’s Bodies with Dr. Christine Vaccaro (294)

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Bonus – Hormones, Libido, and the Missing Conversation About Women’s Bodies with Dr. Christine Vaccaro (294) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Christine Vaccaro – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! We’ve normalized not understa...

Mar 24, 202615 minSeason 10Ep. 294

How Music Heals What Words Can’t with Ann Koplow (293)

Some feelings can’t be said – but they can be sung Ann Koplow shares her journey as a therapist and musician, discussing the healing power of music, her experiences with a rare heart condition, and the importance of authenticity in therapy. She emphasizes the role of shamelessness in creative expression and how songwriting serves as a therapeutic tool for both herself and her clients. The conversation explores the impact of music on mental health, the creation of community through shared experie...

Mar 17, 202642 minSeason 10Ep. 293

From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292)

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around suicide. Triggers Aren’t the Problem—They’re the Clue Co-host Sue Marriott and guest Lisa Firestone examine how attachment wounds, emotional dysregulation, and relational disconnection can quietly escalate into crisis. Together they explore the often-overlooked link between attachment patterns and suicidality, and why understanding your relational blueprint may be one of the most important protective factors you have. Blending research, c...

Mar 03, 202657 minSeason 10Ep. 292

Why Long-Term Love Gets Complicated: A Scientific Approach with Dr. Justin Garcia (291)

What does science actually say about monogamy, desire, and long-term love? Evolutionary biologist Dr. Justin Garcia joins co-host Sue Marriott to deepen our understanding of the myths and realities of modern relationships. From monogamy to consensual non-monogamy, we explore how jealousy and trust function – not as flaws – but as deeply human signals shaped by biology and attachment. Dr. Garcia breaks down how relationships shift over time, especially as we age, and why sexual satisfaction isn’t...

Feb 17, 20261 hr 7 minSeason 10Ep. 291

Nontoxic Guide to Healthy Living with Dr. Aly Cohen (290)

Dr. Aly Cohen discusses the alarming rise of autoimmune diseases, linking them to unregulated everyday chemicals and environmental toxins. She highlights the critical role of gut health in mental well-being and explains how estrogen-mimicking chemicals affect hormonal development and contribute to gender disparities in autoimmune disorders. The episode provides actionable strategies for reducing toxin exposure through food, water, and personal care, emphasizing individual empowerment and an 80/20 approach to healthier living.

Feb 03, 20261 hr 2 minSeason 10Ep. 290

Celebrating 10 Years of TU: Growth, Reflections & the Future (289)

10 years in and still uncensored In this special 10-year anniversary episode, Sue and Ann reflect on a decade of Therapist Uncensored – how it began, how it’s changed, and how the relationships formed have deepened along the way. They share candidly about the influence from our listeners in keeping them curious, accountable, and grounded, as well as the ways their own thinking has evolved through conversations with leading experts and thoughtful audience feedback. Together they explore the joys ...

Jan 20, 202650 minSeason 10Ep. 289

In Each Other’s Care: Building & Sustaining Healthy Relationships with Stan Tatkin – Replay – (288)

Welcome 2026! Kicking off the new year with a replay episode from our powerful interview with Dr. Stan Tatkin, this discussion dives into inner workings of relationships from a biological and societal perspective, and his book, In Each Other’s Care . Click Here to View the Original Episode Shownotes Conflict in relationships is inevitable – find out the ins and outs of repair for healthy relationships. We are back with relationship expert, Dr. Stan Tatkin to explore the inner workings of relatio...

Jan 06, 202654 minSeason 10Ep. 288

Improv: Fostering Connection in Challenging Conversations – Replay – (287)

A replay episode from our powerful interview with Lisa Kays on how improv can deepen conversations around tough topics like race and oppression. Click Here to View the Original Episode Shownotes Improv in Therapy and in Life – Explore the power – and sheer fun – of using improvisation in therapy! Dr. Ann Kelley and Lisa Kays discuss how improv can deepen conversations around tough topics like race and oppression. They examine white supremacy culture and show how improv values like collaboration,...

Dec 16, 20251 hr 12 min

Trailblazers in Love: Understanding & Advocating for the LGBTQ+ Community with Jeff Lutes – Replay – (286)

Replay from our 2024 episode - this is a special conversation between co-host Sue Marriott and special guest Jeff Lutes. Both members of the LGBTQ+ community, this discussion dives into raising families, the evolution of the community, allyship, gender, and the importance of advocacy. While there has been some progress, the LGBTQ+ community still actively faces discrimination. Whether you're a practicing therapist with clients in the community or have LGBTQ-identifying loved ones, this episode i...

Dec 02, 20251 hr 26 minSeason 9Ep. 286

Mind, Body, Heart, Spirit: Embodying Liberation Psychology with Dr. Shena Young – Replay – (285)

Join co-host Sue Marriott and Dr. Shena Young as they dive into liberation psychology and the conflict between intuition and the traditional European model of psychology. Dr. Shena highlights embodying a holistic approach to help heal traumas and deeply root us in our most authentic selves. Whether through connections with nature or the exploration of ancestral traditions, this discussion is enriched with various opportunities to reconnect and liberate our mind, body, heart, and spirit.

Nov 18, 20251 hr 5 minSeason 9Ep. 285

Family Estrangement: The Space Between Love & Self-Protection with Dafna Lender (284)

Behind every family estrangement is a story of love, hurt, and boundaries Dr. Ann Kelley is joined LIVE from Psychotherapy Networker with Dafna Lender, to explore the complex dynamics of parent-child estrangement. Focusing on the emotional and psychological impacts of cutting off family relationships, together they highlight the cultural influences that contribute to these estrangements, the therapeutic perspectives on navigating such situations, and the importance of empathy and boundaries in m...

Nov 04, 202555 minSeason 9Ep. 284

Autism in Polyvagal Terms with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen (283)

Join Sue Marriott and Dr. Sean Inderbitzen - an autistic psychotherapist and advocate for neurodiversity - as he shares his powerful personal and professional journey in understanding autism. Together, they explore the evolution of autism diagnosis, the intersections between attachment and neurodivergence, and how polyvagal theory can both illuminate and complicate the autistic experience. Dr. Inderbitzen offers insights on self-diagnosis, identity formation, and what truly person-centered thera...

Oct 21, 20251 hr 4 minSeason 9Ep. 283

Storytelling as Medicine: Decolonizing Therapy with José Rosario (282)

José Rosario shares the transformative role of storytelling in healing and liberation. He invites therapists to move beyond traditional coping frameworks and embrace radical healing - an approach that centers cultural wisdom, intersectional identity, and community empowerment. Together, Sue and José discuss how clinicians can respond to hate-based violence, recognize collective trauma, and actively dismantle systems of harm. José also shares his personal journey toward self-acceptance and the pl...

Oct 07, 202556 minSeason 9Ep. 282

Saving Relationships in a Polarized World: Bill Doherty on Citizen Therapists & Political Healing (281)

Dr. Ann Kelley sits down with Dr. Bill Doherty to explore the idea of “Citizen Therapists” and how therapists — and all of us — can help bridge divides in a polarized world. Together, they dive into discernment counseling for couples on the brink of divorce, the groundbreaking work of Braver Angels in fostering dialogue across political differences, and the skills we all need for hard but healing conversations. This conversation highlights the power of curiosity, respectful boundaries, and under...

Sep 23, 20251 hr 11 minSeason 9Ep. 281

Bonus – Harnessing “Genius Energy”: The Art of Wise Effort for Growth with Dr. Diana Hill (280)

Ann Kelley and Diana Hill dive into the concept of wise effort and its impact on how we manage our energy in both personal and professional life. They explore the difference between life force energy and anxiety, the role of emotional sensitivity, and why community resilience matters. Diana shares insights on how to wisely channel your “genius energy,” break free from stuck patterns, and cultivate compassionate connections that support growth and balance. Listen to the full episode at TherapistU...

Sep 16, 202512 minSeason 13Ep. 280

Where Entrepreneurship Meets Therapy with Benjamin Fry (279)

Benjamin Fry, a mental health professional and founder of Khiron Clinics joins Sue Marriott as he shares his personal journey through trauma, and how his experiences shaped his personal and professional approach to therapy. From the establishment of his clinic, to innovative treatment modalities like EMDR and somatic experiencing - which further led to the introduction of the PhysioCam, a tool designed to help clients visualize their nervous system states. With the ever evolving world of technol...

Sep 09, 2025Season 9Ep. 279

Bonus – Feel It to Heal It, Continued: Applying the Science of Interoception (278)

In this half of the conversation, Rebecca Kase and the Sue dig deeper into the concept of interoception, emphasizing its significance in therapy and personal well-being. They discuss how our physiological states influence our narratives and the importance of breath in regulating these states. From the roles of implicit and explicit memory in shaping our experiences to how adaptive and maladaptive memories affect our mental health, they highlight therapeutic approaches to updating narratives and ...

Sep 02, 202514 minSeason 278Ep. 9

Why Diets Don’t Work—and What to Do Instead with Judith Matz (277)

Dr. Ann Kelley and expert Judith Matz unpack the complex relationship between dieting, emotional eating, body image, and weight stigma. Together they challenge conventional views on weight and health, emphasizing that fitness matters more than the number on the scale, and explores why most diets fail both psychologically and physiologically. They also cover the historical roots of fatphobia, the dangers of weight bias in healthcare, and the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic. Judith highligh...

Aug 26, 20251 hr 14 minSeason 9Ep. 277

Bonus: Don’t Cancel – Connect: Loretta J. Ross on Activism with Heart (276)

If you’re tired of cancel culture but still care about justice - this conversation is for you In 2022, we had the privilege of having Loretta J. Ross on the podcast to discuss "Calling in the Call Out Culture". With the publication of her new book, "Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You'd Rather Cancel" - we felt this message was just as relevant as ever. Together, Sue Marriott and Loretta J. Ross explore the themes of social justice, empathy, and the importance of dialogue in na...

Aug 19, 202514 minSeason 9Ep. 276

Beyond the High Road: New Perspectives on Discussing Race and Privilege with Dr. Kenneth V. Hardy (275)

Use the VCR Method to navigate difficult conversations without retreating or conflicting. In this powerful conversation, one of the most influential voices on racial justice and family therapy, Dr. Kenneth Hardy talks with Dr. Ann Kelley about the VCR Method (Validate, Challenge, Request) for navigating difficult conversations without retreating into silence or conflict. Hardy reveals how White-bodied folks and People of Color/Culture (POC) can move beyond either/or thinking by recognizing their...

Aug 12, 20251 hr 6 minEp. 275

Feel It to Heal It: The Science of Interoception with Rebecca Kase (274)

concept of interoception—can support healing from trauma. Rebecca shares her personal story as a survivor and highlights the importance of creating safety, tuning into the body’s internal signals, and approaching somatic work with compassion. Together, they unpack how interoception differs from general perception, why it matters in therapy, and how small, gradual steps can help rebuild connection with the body. View full shownotes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU274.

Jul 22, 202538 minSeason 9Ep. 274
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