In this episode, Grant and Fara talk about something that psychoanalysts call enactment. They talk about the positive and traumatic experiences that shape enactments, and how we can use these moments for learning and therapeutic benefit—not only during therapy but also in everyday life.

In this episode, Grant and Fara talk about transitioning into winter. They reflect on some of the physical and mental changes that might happen during the winter season, and how we can better react to these changes: seeking help, understanding and listening to our bodies, and more.

In today's episode, Fara and Grant explore the concept of authenticity. They interrogate what it means to be truly authentic, what people strive for when they aim to live authentically, and how we socially make sense of and understand what we call authentic behavior.

In this episode, Fara and Grant are joined by Dan Rocker, the President of the International Paruresis Association, and the Co-Director of the Shy Bladder Center. Dan Rocker is an expert on Paruresis (significant urinary hesitation and inhibition) and breaks down some myths and misconceptions about the social phobia.

In this episode, Grant and Fara talk about Therapy Speak outside of the clinical setting and explore the potential benefits. Join in to hear more about the interactional setting of the therapy session and what might be lost in translating this therapy speak to everyday life.

In this episode, Fara and Grant talk about the way narratives shape self-identity. They discuss the constraints of certain personal narratives, the effects of trauma on narrative construction, and how altering our perspective on these narratives might offer us more mental and emotional clarity.

In this episode, Grant and Fara discuss intrusive thinking. What it may or may not mean, and ways to make sense of these thoughts. They touch on personal experiences with intrusive thoughts, research on the phenomenon, and pigeons!

In this episode, Fara and Grant talk about ways that people make, grow, and end friendships. They discuss the anxiety around reaching out to new people, the difficult conversations that can come with holding friends accountable, and how we might part ways when we feel wronged in existing friendships.

Today, Grant and Fara talk about navigating those early stages of talking about a relationship: defining the relationship, having a conversation about where things stand, and communicating what we mean to the other person. Are we dating? Netflix-N-Chilling? Just hanging out? Should we even put a label on it? It can be tricky, but hopefully, this episode provides useful tips to help navigate these sometimes sticky situations.

In today's episode, we're going to talk about the trials and tribulations facing people in the middle and upper middle classes as they try to work out what is meaningful in life. Is it about worldly success, money, and the schools you go to? Is it about how you live and how spend your time and with whom?

In this episode, we cover what we see as some of the noise and disinformation around mental health treatment. We explore social media's benefits and pitfalls as a space for learning about potential remedies: from giving patients greater autonomy and information, to unsafe substance usage with potentially harmful outcomes.

Today we talk all about motivation and New Year's resolutions. The episode was recorded early in January, but the conversation may be even more important today. Throughout the episode, try to reflect on some of the goals you may have set for yourself this year. And if you’re struggling with some of these goals, how might you reframe your motivations in a healthy manner? Thinking about the benefits can help respark motivation! And remember to give yourself credit for the progress you’ve made!

In this episode, Fara and Grant discuss recent mental health initiatives in NYC for hospitalizing unhoused people, school policies that may be harmful or stigmatizing to students, and the foundations of stigma and the implications for individuals and society.

Welcome Back to Season 2 of Doorknob Comments! Fara and Grant talk about taking time off and coming back strong.

As we wrap up season 1 of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant discuss the importance of taking calculated breaks as an act of self compassion and care.

Dr. Niobe Way talks about her research showing the crucial importance of friendship for boys. Friendship is healthy and normal for boys even though they may be taught as they get older to play cool. There are many simple things parents and educators can do to alleviate the problem.

Fara and Grant discuss Terror Management Theory, which helps us understand how we cope individually and collectively when fears of death are heightened, and ways people can cope with mortality and help others around them do so as well.

In this episode, co-hosts Fara and Grant talk about their experience as psychiatrists who practice therapy. Listen in as we discuss important themes including the difference between treating illness and pursuing personal development, how to balance clinical care with coaching and self-help, and other key considerations in the complex, evolving landscape of wellness and self-care.

Fara and Grant speak with Jacob Appel, psychiatrist, author, and bioethicist, about important ways that the therapist-patient relationships may feel like a friendship (or just feel confusing). Well-intentioned actions may have unintended consequences when they cross the boundaries between clinician and friend. Dr. Appel helps give us clarity on how to manage when these moments come up, and advises us on how to preserve the treatment and act in the best interest of the patient.

Find more on Dr. Appel here:

https://www.mountsinai.org/profiles/jacob-m-appel

Fara and Grant host a wide-ranging conversation about the many things to think about as kids are returning to school as COVID continues to linger, ranging from complex emotional considerations, to social factors, to the political context, and beyond.