Dr. Monica Johnson is joined by Dr. Khadijah Cyril to discuss narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and how it differs from typical harmful behaviors like lying and cheating. They explore the dynamics of relationships involving NPD, the influence of modern dating apps, and offer strategies for breaking free from unhealthy relationship cycles. Dr. Cyril emphasizes the complexity of diagnosing NPD and the importance of personal boundaries and support systems in such scenarios. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone dealing with unhealthy relationships, whether romantic or familial.

In this episode of Savvy Psychologist, host Dr. Monica Johnson delves deep into the world of dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter that influences our behavior, motivation, and pleasure. While dopamine is a vital part of our brain's functioning, an over-reliance on it can lead to various downsides affecting our mental and physical well-being.

In this episode, Dr. Johnson gets into the psychological reasons why sports betting can be so enticing, exploring the mental traps and risk factors involved. It also provides practical strategies for individuals struggling with sports betting to regain control and find healthier coping mechanisms.

Ever feel down after coming back from vacation? You're not alone! In this episode, Dr. Monica Johnson dives into the science behind post-vacation sadness, exploring why that 'back to reality' feeling hits so hard. Learn about dopamine highs, harsh re-entries, lost anticipation joy, and social media comparisons. Plus, get practical tips on how to ease back into life and keep that vacation vibe alive. Tune in to understand your feelings and find ways to beat the post-vacation blues.

In order to understand panic attacks, we must first understand our own nervous system.

Learn practical, evidence-based communication strategies to deepen your relationships and combat loneliness. Psychologist Dr. Monica Johnson shares tips for active listening, vulnerability, and building emotional intimacy.

Sexual desire naturally ebbs and flows, but when it disappears for a while, it can leave you confused, disconnected, or worried. Monica unpacks the most common reasons for low libido—and how to talk about it with your partner without blame or shame.

Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder — or the brain of the perceiver? This week, Monica explores the psychology of attraction, why we’re drawn to certain people, and how looks are only part of the equation.

Oversharing can feel like connection in the moment and like regret afterward. In this episode, Monica unpacks the psychology behind why we say too much and how to create healthier boundaries around self-disclosure.

Gaslighting isn’t just a trendy term, it’s a serious form of emotional abuse that can leave you doubting your reality. Monica Johnson breaks down what gaslighting really is, how to recognize its subtle tactics, and what steps you can take to protect your mental health.

Menopause isn’t just a physical transition, it’s an emotional and mental minefield. In this episode, Monica dives into how fluctuating hormones impact mood, anxiety, sleep, and memory, and offers practical, science-backed strategies to feel more like yourself again. Spoiler alert: you’re not going crazy, and yes, brain fog is real.

Feeling overwhelmed by work, life, and everything in between? Monica breaks down Cognitive Load Theory, a powerful framework that explains why your brain feels like it’s maxed out, and what to do about it.

Confused about whether to see a therapist or a life coach? In this episode, Monica breaks down the key differences between these two professions, including training, scope of practice, and ethical responsibilities. Learn how to choose the right support for your needs.

Why do we love extremes, whether it’s thrill-seeking, viral controversies, or black-and-white thinking? Monica breaks down the psychology behind our attraction to intensity and how we can find balance in a world that rewards the extreme.

Feeling overwhelmed by the world's chaos? While we can't fix everything, we can hack our brains to boost happiness. In this episode, Monica breaks down the DOSE method: dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. Learn simple, science-backed ways to activate these "happiness hormones" and bring more joy into your daily life.

Historically speaking, women have not been encouraged to authentically express their sexuality or to have sex-positive attitudes. Dr. Monica Johnson is here to help jump-start your journey on the pleasure train by letting you know about 5 factors that get in your way.

Monica shares how walking can boost mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and enhancing sleep. Learn why this simple activity is a powerful tool for improving well-being and building resilience.

Giving back isn’t just good for the world—it’s good for your mental and physical health, too. In this episode of Savvy Psychologist, Dr. Monica Johnson breaks down the science behind altruism, how volunteering can reduce stress and boost happiness, and why small acts of kindness can transform your well-being. Tune in to discover practical ways to give back that fit your lifestyle.

Relationships often end due to factors like commitment issues, poor communication, emotional disconnect, and infidelity. In this episode, Monica unpacks the psychology behind breakups, drawing on research and real-world insights to help navigate relationship challenges.

Are you truly getting the rest you need? In this episode, Monica explores the seven essential types of rest—physical, mental, emotional, social, sensory, creative, and spiritual—offering practical strategies to help you combat burnout and reclaim your energy.