In today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara are joined by Dr. Soe Thein, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and the founder of the Good Enough Psychiatrist [https://youtube.com/@goodenoughpsychiatrist?si=9bee2KQmY8Aj2RZm] YouTube channel. On his channel, Dr. Thein creates animated videos that explain psychodynamic therapy concepts for a general audience and has won numerous awards for his work. Together, they discuss moments of rupture that can occur in relationships and the importance of repair. They emphasize that occasional ruptures are a normal part of any healthy relationship; what truly matters is how the individuals involved address these breaks and work together to mend what has been damaged. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Soe Thein https://downtownpsychiatry.com/about-soe-thein-md Good Enough Psychiatrist YouTube Channel [https://youtube.com/@goodenoughpsychiatrist?si=coxLqTK512QHHyft] Why Conflicts Make Relationships Stronger [https://youtu.be/Gmap7_NkLOQ?si=lsfK0vVSGf2NdRSB] -  Video Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

On today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Igor Galynker, a psychiatrist, clinician, and researcher known for his work in bipolar disorder, suicide prevention, and the role of family dynamics in psychiatric illness, who currently serves as the Associate Chairman for Research in the department of psychiatry at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. Dr. Galynker talks about how he got interested in exploring suicide prevention, the signs that typically appear before someone commits suicide, and how therapists can better attune themselves to these markers. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Igor Galynker https://profiles.mountsinai.org/igor-galynker [https://www.umb.edu/directory/nireisikovits/] https://labs.icahn.mssm.edu/galynkerlab/ https://www.bpfamily.org/about-2 Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

On today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Dr. Daven Morrison, a psychiatrist with deep expertise in organizational and occupational psychiatry. A member of the Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry and an officer of the Academy of Organizational and Occupational Psychiatry, Dr. Morrison shares insights into the psychological dimensions of workplace life. From managing mergers and downsizing to fostering self-aware leadership, he walks us through the core principles of organizational psychiatry. We hope you enjoy! Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Daven Morrison https://www.ourgap.org/committees/work-organizations https://www.morrisonltd.com/about-us/daven-morrison-m-d https://www.aoop.org/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/ If you like our podcast, please leave a review! Thanks in advance!

In today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Kate Werble, a longtime friend of Fara's and founder of her own New York City art gallery. They talk about the intimidating world of contemporary art, breaking down the mystique of the gallery scene and offering practical advice on how to begin engaging with galleries. Kate emphasizes that looking at art is a skill developed over time, encouraging curiosity over expertise for newcomers interested in learning how to engage with art. Finally, they talk about what art is ultimately about and what it offers psychologically.  We hope you enjoy it.  Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Kate Werble https://www.katewerblegallery.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kate_werble_gallery/?hl=en [https://med.nyu.edu/departments-institutes/child-adolescent-psychiatry/trauma-systems-therapy-training-center] Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Farah sit down with Dr. Glenn Sachs to discuss the development and impact of Trauma Systems Therapy (TST), a model that addresses both emotional regulation in traumatized children and the complexities of their social environments. Dr. Sachs highlights how TST's open-source approach has allowed practitioners worldwide to innovate and adapt the model for diverse settings, from child welfare to refugee care. The conversation explores the importance of honoring intergenerational wisdom while adapting to new challenges like cyberbullying and the digital age. They also touch on the promise of causal data science to advance psychiatric research and the need to embrace complexity rather than oversimplify mental health solutions.  We hope you enjoy.  Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Glenn Saxe https://med.nyu.edu/faculty/glenn-saxe [https://thoughtforms.life/] https://med.nyu.edu/departments-institutes/child-adolescent-psychiatry/trauma-systems-therapy-training-center  Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/ If you like our podcast, please leave a review! Thanks in advance!

On today's episode of Doorknob Comments Fara and Grant are joined by Dr. Michael Levin, the Vannevar Bush Distinguished Professor of Biology and the Director of the Allen Discovery Center at Tufts University. Dr. Levin publishes across developmental biology, computer science, bioengineering, and philosophy of mind, with work spanning from fundamental conceptual frameworks, to applications in birth defects, regeneration, and cancer. Fara and Grant discuss Dr. Levin's groundbreaking research, how he came to his research interests, and the potential linkages or applications his research might have for the future of therapeutic care. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Michael Levin https://thoughtforms.life/ [https://www.farawhitemd.com/] https://drmichaellevin.org/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

On this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant focus on why people often struggle to do things that are good for them while continuing habits that might be harmful. They discuss the concept of multiple self-states or personality parts that can sometimes conflict with each other, leading to procrastination, guilt, and difficulty in enjoying leisure activities. The conversation touches on topics such as the challenges of balancing productivity with self-care, the role of brain activity in procrastination, and the importance of self-reflection in understanding one's own motivations and behaviors. Throughout the episode, Fara and Grant draw on psychoanalytic theories, personal experiences, and clinical observations to offer insights into how individuals can better navigate their internal conflicts and make more constructive choices.  We hope you enjoy.  Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

On today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara sit down with Erica Krakovitz, a clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist, to explore the complexities of relationships, self-trust, and emotional healing. They dive into the patterns that keep people stuck in toxic dynamics, the role of intuition in recognizing red flags, and how different therapeutic approaches—like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR—can help people rebuild their sense of self. Whether you're navigating heartbreak, questioning your relationship, or simply curious about how therapy works, this conversation sheds light on the deep psychological forces that shape our connections with others. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Erica Krakovitz https://www.drkrakovitz.com/ [https://www.umb.edu/directory/nireisikovits/] https://www.instagram.com/drericakrakovitz/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

On this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Professor Nir Eisikovits, a philosopher and the founding director of the Applied Ethics Center at UMass Boston. They delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence, ethics, and psychotherapy, exploring how AI technologies can impact therapeutic practices. The discussion highlights the growing loneliness crisis and the potential role of chatbots in providing accessible mental health support, while also addressing the ethical implications and potential hazards of automating therapy. Professor Eisikovits shares insights from his research on the moral dilemmas surrounding technology and war, questioning whether AI can genuinely replicate human empathy and emotional connections in therapeutic settings. The episode raises critical questions about the future of psychotherapy in an age increasingly influenced by AI advancements. We hope you enjoy it!  Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Nir Eisikovits https://www.umb.edu/directory/nireisikovits/ https://prostheticgods.podbean.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/  

In this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Mark Solms, a renowned neuropsychologist and psychoanalyst. Dr. Solms discusses his groundbreaking work in neuropsychoanalysis, which bridges the gap between neuroscience and psychoanalysis. He shares insights from his 30-year project of retranslating Freud's complete works, including previously untranslated neuroscientific papers, revealing how this process has deepened our understanding of Freud's ideas. The conversation explores the fundamental role of emotions and consciousness in brain function, the importance of understanding subjective experience in mental health, and the potential future of artificial consciousness. Dr. Solms also touches on the relevance of Freud's work in modern neuroscience and psychotherapy, offering valuable perspectives for both professionals and those undergoing psychotherapy We hope you enjoy it. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Mark Solms https://x.com/Mark_Solms Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant Brenner are joined by Sharon Thomas, the founder and CEO of MAIA Education Resource Center. Sharon is a child development and learning specialist with expertise in one-on-one academic interventions and school and college placement. With over two decades of experience, she shares her insights on school placement, learning challenges, and the crucial role of executive function skills in achieving academic success. Sharon discusses the delicate balance between schools, parents, and students, providing valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of the education system from kindergarten through college. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Sharon Thomas https://www.maiaeducation.com/ info@maiaeducation.com 212-426-3742 Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Grant and Fara are joined by Joe Feldman, the president and founder of Cover My Mental Health, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping patients and their families secure proper insurance coverage for mental health services. Joe began advocating for access to mental healthcare after facing challenges related to insurance denials for his daughter's residential care. During the conversation, Grant and Fara discuss these obstacles with Joe and explore the role that Cover My Mental Health plays in helping everyday people access the mental healthcare they need. Be sure to check the links in the show notes for more information and resources! We hope you find it enjoyable. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Joe Feldman https://covermymentalhealth.org/ Joe's Email [joe@covermymentalhealth.com?]: joe@covermymentalhealth.com Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/ Other Resources https://www.nami.org/support-education/publications-reports/survey-reports/the-2024-nami-workplace-mental-health-poll/ https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/write-effective-letters-of-medical-necessity https://www.thekennedyforum.org/blog/10-steps-to-securing-insurance-coverage-for-mental-health-care/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/experimentations/202410/getting-insurance-to-cover-mental-health https://covermymentalhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Medical-necessity-letter_best-practices-2024-11.pdf https://journals.lww.com/practicalpsychiatry/fulltext/2021/07000/providing_a_routine_medical_necessity_letter_to.7.aspx

In this episode, Grant and Fata are joined by Dr. Scott Shapiro. Dr. Scott Shapiro, a leading expert in Adult ADHD trained at Harvard Medical School, provides specialized care in New York City, combining psychopharmacology, medical psychiatry, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He also is a Corporate Executive Coach, helping professionals enhance their performance, productivity, and communication skills. Dr. Shapiro shares his expertise as a specialist in Adult ADHD, its treatment, and practical strategies to help individuals overcome their challenges.  We hope you enjoy.  Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Scott Shapiro https://www.scottshapiromd.com/ [https://www.doorknobcomments.com/] Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Grant and Fara delve into the topic of insight. They discuss its meaning, the benefits of having insight, and the various ways in which insight can be lacking. They also explore strategies for enhancing one's insight into their mental health and the role of therapy in encouraging patients to critically engage with their mental illness. We hope you find it enjoyable. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode of Doorknob Comments Grant and Fara are joined by Angie Tekriwal, owner of Silver Lining Counseling LLC and counselor specializing in treating adolescents, young adults, and families at her private practice in Montclair, New Jersey.  Angie is also a mother and a good friend of Fara. They talk about the impact of media consumption on kids, inside scoop on the mom experience, and a range of other subjects. We hope you enjoy it! Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Angie Tekriwal https://www.angietekriwal.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Grant and Fara dive into the animated film Inside Out 2, exploring its creative depiction of emotions and the educational value it offers. They begin by providing a synopsis of the film, followed by an in-depth discussion on how emotions like anxiety and sadness play a crucial role in the protagonist Riley's conflicts and emotional growth. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of emotional frameworks in the film and how they reflect real-life therapeutic approaches. As always, they wrap up with some thoughtful closing remarks and doorknob comments. We hope you enjoy it. In This Episode [0:00] Introduction [1:20] Episode Overview [2:00] Synopsis of Inside Out 2 [5:00] Exploring Emotional Representation and Educational Themes [12:40] Anxiety's Impact on Riley's Journey [15:40] Anxiety as a Manifestation of Insecurity [19:00] Sadness and Emotional Integration [21:00] Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Depicted in the Film [23:00] Which Emotion Takes the Lead? [29:20] Navigating Social Challenges and Stereotypes in Adolescence [33:10] Linking Gendered Social Dynamics Back to Childhood [36:15] Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Grant and Fara are joined by Dr. Alexey Tolchinsky, a clinical psychologist, adjunct professor at George Washington University, and clinical fellow of the International Neuropsychoanalysis Association. He works with neurodiverse patients and young adults struggling with life transitions. Today, they discuss his peer-reviewed research, namely what he refers to as narrative fallacy in psychotherapy. Dr. Tolchinksky explains what he thinks are the dangers of narrative fallacy in psychotherapy, how it plays out between therapists and patients, and ways that we can consider re-thinking ingrained narratives in the therapeutic encounter. We hope you enjoy it. In This Episode [0:00] Introduction [1:30] Episode Overview [04:40] Alexey's Journey into Clinical Psychology [6:10] The Concept of Narrative Fallacy [13:10] Narrative Fallacy in Clinical Setting: ADHD and Anxiety [21:15] Achieving Patient Wellness [24:50] Data vs. Theory-Driven Practice [28:40] Applying Narrative Fallacy in Therapy [34:30] Static and Dynamic Diagnostic Tools [44:40] Potential for Dynamic Tools in Therapy Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Alexey Tolchinksky https://montgomerycountypsychologist.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Grant and Fara are joined by esteemed neurophysicist and authority on brain imaging, Dr. Karl Friston. His revolutionary impact on studies of the brain derives from his inventive use of probability theory to analyze neural imaging data. They discuss how we might think about psychotherapy from the point of view of Dr. Friston's work and briefly touch on artificial general intelligence, AGI, through Karl's work on VERSES AI. We hope you enjoy! In This Episode [0:00] Introduction [1:35] Episode Overview [02:30] Journey into Brain Imaging Research [6:30] Mathematics and Brain Processing [12:10] Active Inference and its Relevance to Psychotherapy [24:10] Therapeutic Alliance as Computational System [27:50] Revising Entrenched Beliefs Through Therapy [32:20] Trauma, Condition, and Altered Rationale [55:00] Mindfulness and Managing Prediction Errors [1:00:00] Consciousness and Selfhood [1:04:35] Verses AI and the Future of Psychiatry Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Karl Friston https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/2747-karl-friston https://www.verses.ai/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Fara and Grant approach the sticky subjects in therapy, such as: billing, scheduling, boundaries, connection... and whether I really AM my therapist's favorite patient!! They provide insights into the challenges associated with managing this relationship and offer guidance on how to effectively communicate with your therapist. How do you bring up your concerns? Is it wrong to feel emotionally or romantically attracted to your therapist? This episode covers a wide range of topics to hopefully ease some of your anxieties. We hope you enjoy. Key Takeaways: Therapists, like anyone else, have their unique ways of approaching therapy based on their training and sensibilities. If you ever feel uncertain or have questions about your therapy, please don't hesitate to bring them up with your therapist. It's important to work through any concerns in your relationship with your therapist, and they are there to take them seriously and support you. In This Episode: [0:00] Introduction [01:00] Episode Overview [03:15] Getting to Therapy on Time (...or not) [07:30] Balancing Scheduling and Boundaries [12:10] Adapting Therapy Practices [15:10] Professionalism and Remote Therapy [19:40] Ethical Boundaries in Therapist-Patient Relationships [24:50] Handling Multiple Sources of Advice [31:47] Am I Your Favorite?? [38:53] Therapeutic Obligations Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

In this episode, Grant and Fara have a conversation with Dr. Robin Stern, the Co-Founder and Senior Advisor for the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. Dr. Stern is also the author of The Gaslight Effect [https://www.amazon.com/Gaslight-Effect-Survive-Manipulation-Control/dp/0767924452] and the host of The Gaslight Effect Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gaslight-effect-podcast/id1645322193]. They delve into Dr. Stern's journey in exploring gaslighting, the common tactics used by gaslighters in relationships, the role of shame and isolation for victims, and much more. Drawing from her 30 years of experience in treating individuals, couples, and families, Dr. Stern offers valuable insights into gaslighting dynamics and the steps to reclaiming one's narrative. We hope you enjoy! Key Takeaways The longer you're in a relationship where you're second-guessing your reality and accommodating the other, the harder it is to leave. Many times shame can begin to creep into gaslighting relationships. Victims might be ashamed to bring their gaslighters behavior up to family and friends, and can further isolate themselves. In This Episode [0:00] Introduction [1:05] Episode Overview [02:30] Robin's Journey to Exploring Gaslighting [10:10] Red Flags and Disavowal [17:15] 'Stage 3' of Gaslighting [18:40] Masquerading Gaslighting in Relationships [22:10] The Role of Isolation and Shame [24:30] Reclaiming Reality and Pushing Back [27:40] Gaslighting vs. Other Forms of Dysfunctional Communication [30:40] Navigating Behavioral Intention [33:55] What about Gaslighters? [35:40] Closing Thoughts Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Robin Stern https://robinstern.com/ https://howwefeel.org/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/