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Podcast

On the Convos From The Couch podcast, you’ll hear engaging, informative conversations with leading mental health care professionals that will help guide you on your journey to leading a healthier, more fulfilling life.

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LATEST EPISODE

June 24, 2026

with Jerry Lawson, M.A. LPC/MHSP, LMHCQS, NCC

LATEST EPISODE

LGBTQ+

What It Really Means to Be an LGBTQ+ Ally

As we recognize Pride month, Tennessee-based therapist Jerry Lawson joins us to explore what it truly means to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Drawing from both personal experience and clinical perspective, Jerry shares how connection, empathy, and presence can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Together, we discuss why allyship matters, the real impact of loneliness...

Featured Episodes

EPISODE 174 / March 28, 2025

with Robert Herman, MD and Joseph Fondriest, MD

Psychiatry

Bipolar Disorder: A Dialogue with Psychiatric Experts – Podcast

In honor of World Bipolar Day, host Nicholette Leanza sits down with psychiatrists Dr. Robert Herman and Dr. Joe Foundriest to explore the complexities of Bipolar disorder. Dr. Herman shares how personal experiences shaped his passion for the field, his research on Lamotrigine, and his work with the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. Dr. Foundriest provides insights into the psychodynamics of the...

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EPISODE 172 / March 18, 2025

Photo of Episode Guest Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons

with Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons

Personality Disorders

Borderline Personality Disorder: Debunking Myths and Navigating Treatment – Podcast

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often surrounded by myths and stigma. In this episode of Convos from the Couch, host Nicholette Leanza sits down with psychologist Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons to break down the truth about BPD, its connection to trauma, and how it’s often misrepresented. Dr. Gibbons...

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EPISODE 177 / April 14, 2025

Photo of Episode Guest Leanna Stockard, MA, LMFT

with Leanna Stockard, MA, LMFT

Self-Help & Wellness

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health – Podcast

Host Nicholette Leanza sits down with LifeStance therapist Leanna Stockard to unpack the complex relationship between social media and mental health. Leanna explores how social media can both normalize conversations about mental health and contribute to challenges like misinformation and self-diagnosis. They dive into:How online stories can reduce stigma. The risks of overusing terms like “narcissism” or...

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Addiction | Trauma

Understanding the Trauma-Substance Use Connection

We are joined by Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Melissa Cribb to explore the intricate relationship between trauma and substance use disorders. Melissa shares her extensive experience working in both intensive outpatient and community-based settings, providing a deep dive into how trauma-informed care can transform treatment approaches. Listen in as they discuss the causes of addiction, the impact...

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Self-Help & Wellness

Healthcare, Advocacy, and Allyship: Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community – Podcast

As we recognize Pride month, Nicholette sits down with therapist Melanie Falls to explore a range of valuable resources for the LGBTQ+ community. Listeners will gain insights into various local, state, and national organizations offering support, from legal aid and crisis hotlines to healthcare and educational programs. This episode also covers healthcare resources, emphasizing the importance of...

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Trauma

A Therapist’s Journey Through Trauma and Healing – Podcast

LifeStance therapist Amber Hulgan joins us to explore the profound impact of trauma. Amber bravely shares her personal journey through childhood abuse, the loss of her mother to suicide, and the long road to healing and advocacy. Discover how Amber’s experiences shaped her career as a marriage and family therapist, and how she uses her story to...

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Self-Help & Wellness

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth & Loved Ones – Podcast

In this special Pride Month episode of “Convos from the Couch,” host Nicholette Leanza (she/her) sits down with Denise Goff (she/her), a licensed clinical professional counselor and co-chair of LifeStance Illinois’s DEI committee. Together, they delve into the profound impact of family acceptance and rejection on the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals. Join us as Denise shares...

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Self-Help & Wellness

Understanding Asian American Cultural Identity – Podcast

As we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, LifeStance Health psychiatrist Dora-Linda Wang, MD, MA shares her insights on the unique aspects of Asian cultural identity, the importance of family interdependence, and the challenges of mental health stigma within the Asian American community. Discover how cultural sensitivity can enhance therapeutic approaches and learn about the historical context...

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Self-Help & Wellness

Navigating Veterans’ Return to Civilian Life – Podcast

On this episode, Nicholette is joined by Marriage and Family Therapists Abi Mello and Liam O’Mahony to explore the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life. Abi and Liam share their insights and research on the critical issues veterans encounter, such as job security, identity, trauma, and the importance of strong support systems....

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Psychiatry

Schizophrenia on Screen: Myths vs. Reality – Podcast

Join us on today’s episode as we chat with LifeStance Regional Clinical Director, Mikka McGhee, about the portrayal of Schizophrenia in popular culture, specifically in horror movies. Mikka analyzes psychological themes in films, and discusses how these portrayals often contribute to stigma. We dive into the symptoms of schizophrenia, examine both accurate and misleading depictions...

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Self-Help & Wellness

The Brain-Body Connection in Fibromyalgia – Podcast

According to the CDC, adults with fibromyalgia are three times more likely to experience major depression and face higher risks of suicide and injury. Karen Gilmore, a clinician from LifeStance Health, brings invaluable insights from her work in rheumatology, dealing with chronic pain and fatigue. She’ll share how fibromyalgia’s widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms...

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ADHD

Navigating Adult ADHD – Podcast

In this episode, we are joined by Cora Elkerton as she candidly shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and the unique challenges she faces as a parent raising children with ADHD. Through her insightful reflections, Cora offers helpful perspectives on managing symptoms, navigating daily tasks, and fostering positive relationships...

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MEET THE HOST

Nicholette Leanza, M.Ed, LPCC

Nicholette possesses nearly 30 years of experience working with individuals to improve their lives through thought-provoking and creative therapy techniques. She is a licensed professional clinical counselor and an award-winning university instructor with several media interviews related to psychological health and well-being.