Beyond the TikTok Therapist: What Therapy Really Looks Like

August 5, 2026 Aug 5, 2026

Social media has transformed the way we talk about mental health, but it has also influenced what many people expect from therapy. In this episode, we welcome licensed clinical professional counselor Nicholas Marchand for an honest conversation about the growing gap between the therapy often portrayed online and the realities of the therapeutic process. Together, we explore how viral mental health content, therapy influencers, and short-form videos can shape perceptions of healing, diagnosis, and personal growth.

From TikTok-inspired self-diagnoses to expectations of quick fixes and immediate answers, Nicholette and Nick unpack some of the most common misconceptions people bring into therapy. They discuss why meaningful progress takes time, why therapy is a collaborative journey rather than a one-way source of advice, and how real growth often happens through reflection, vulnerability, and consistent effort.

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on what therapy really looks like and why no diagnosis or label can fully define who a person is.

August 5, 2026

with Nicholas Marchand, NCC, LCPC

MEET THE GUEST

Nicholas Marchand, NCC, LCPC

Hi! My name is Nicholas Marchand, but you can call me "Nick." I’m a board certified, fully licensed therapist in the Vernon Hills office, and I would love the opportunity to meet you—whether you’re continuing your therapy journey or just getting started. Often, the hardest step is beginning again or finally addressing something that has been weighing on you for a long time. I strive to show up as a genuine, supportive presence, offering honest feedback and even humor when it’s helpful.
In individual therapy sessions, I partner with clients to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, and loss. You may not even know exactly how to define what’s wrong—and that’s completely okay. My goal is to provide a comfortable, safe space where you can explore what’s getting in the way of becoming the version of yourself you want to be.
Whether your child needs support navigating challenges or you’re an adult looking for clarity and direction, I’m here to help. I can connect with your child over their excitement about anime or sit with you to unpack why sleep has been so difficult lately. I also have experience supporting individuals struggling with substance use, particularly alcohol, including those who have needed higher levels of care such as rehabilitation. I’m committed to helping you navigate everyday life while maintaining active recovery.
As an adult man, I understand how difficult it can be for men to reach out for help and openly talk about mistakes or struggles. I deeply value this work and strive to create an environment where you can feel comfortable being fully yourself throughout the process.
Outside of my professional role, I prioritize modeling healthy balance and self-care. I spend meaningful time with my family, enjoy being an involved Dad, and connect with friends through activities that bring me joy. We are so much more than our struggles—let’s work together to help you move forward and live a life filled with greater clarity, resilience, and joy!

View Nicholas's Profile

Related Podcasts

Therapy

Beyond Therapy – Podcast

LifeStance providers Carl Nassar and Nicholette Leanza dive into the topic of “Beyond Therapy” and explore the reasons why therapy works, what makes it work and how to find a therapist that’s a match for you.

Listen To Episode

Feel Better. Think Brighter. Live Deeper.

You’re not alone in figuring it all out. We’re diving into real struggles, surprising breakthroughs, and the small shifts that can change everything. Whether you're stuck in your head or striving for better days, this podcast is your weekly check-in — calm, clear, and truly useful.