Reborn Dolls: Finding Comfort and Connection

Episode 208 December 10, 2025 Dec 10, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with LifeStance therapist Victoria Benfer to explore the growing trend of reborn dolls—remarkably lifelike, artist-crafted baby dolls that have captured increasing public interest. Victoria discusses the many roles these dolls play, from offering comfort to those coping with infant loss or loneliness, to supporting connection and calm for older adults in memory care settings, to serving as a creative outlet for dedicated collectors.

She also addresses the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries, noting potential risks such as emotional overdependence or blurred lines between fantasy and reality. This thoughtful conversation offers an empathetic, balanced look at the rise of reborn dolls and the complex emotional needs they can help meet.

EPISODE 208 / December 10, 2025

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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