Move Into Self-Care: The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise

Episode 211 January 7, 2026 Jan 7, 2026

LifeStance therapist Victoria Benfer joins us in the new year for a thoughtful conversation on exercise as a powerful form of self-care. Together, we reframe movement beyond weight loss, focusing instead on its impact on mental health and overall well-being.

Victoria shares both personal experiences and clinical insights on how exercise can regulate stress, improve emotional and physical health, and bring greater mental clarity. The episode explores a range of accessible movement options—from yoga and strength training to simple activities like walking—while addressing common barriers to getting started and offering practical, realistic tips to overcome them. The conversation closes with tailored advice for mental health professionals on using exercise to prevent and manage burnout.

EPISODE 211 / January 7, 2026

with Victoria Benfer, MSW, LCSW

MEET THE GUEST

Victoria Benfer, MSW, LCSW

Victoria Benfer, LCSW, LCADC, provides compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents, adults, and older adults across New Jersey. She tailors treatment to each client’s needs, using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing to support insight, empowerment, and emotional resilience. Victoria specializes in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, grief, midlife and later-life transitions, and couples counseling. She has extensive experience supporting women’s issues, the geriatric population, military veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals, and is licensed in the treatment of alcohol and drug use disorders. Outside of her clinical work, Victoria enjoys spending time with family and friends, going on outdoor walks, early morning cross-training workouts, trying the latest coffee trends, and caring for her two cats.

View Victoria's Profile

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