In today’s episode, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Dr. David Burns, a true legend in the field of mental health. Dr. Burns is not only a pioneer of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but he’s also the best-selling author of Feeling Good and Feeling Great, which have collectively sold millions of copies worldwide. Spending so much time with him was a real treat, as he shared his incredible insights into mental health, his innovative T.E.A.M. Therapy method, and his groundbreaking Feeling Great App.

We talked about how his methods are helping people achieve rapid and lasting recovery from depression, anxiety, and other difficult emotions, sometimes in just one session. Dr. Burns also gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how his AI-driven app is transforming mental health treatment, making it accessible and effective for people everywhere.

This conversation was truly fascinating, and I’m sure you’ll find a ton of value in it. Whether you’re familiar with Dr. Burns’ work or hearing about him for the first time, you’ll come away with practical advice and a deeper understanding of how to break free from the emotional patterns holding you back.

In this episode, we cover:

• Dr. Burns' early work with CBT and how it evolved into T.E.A.M. Therapy.
• The creation and impact of the Feeling Great App, and how it leverages AI to deliver therapy.
• Why measuring progress in therapy is essential and how data-driven methods are changing the field.
• The common cause behind many negative emotions, and how to tackle it.
• Dr. Burns’ unique approach to therapy—including why he hasn’t charged for sessions in over 30 years.

Links:

https://feelinggood.com/

 https://www.feelinggreat.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@UCEgz2rq7N1xCHMCcjdyU5zg

https://feelinggood.com/books/

Reach out!

http://duffthepsych.com/contact

duffthepsych@gmail.com

Breaking Boundaries: Dr. Paul Rivera on Redefining Success and Masculinity

In this episode, Dr. Paul Rivera, a first-generation Latino American, shares his inspiring journey navigating cultural expectations and his pursuit of a fulfilling life. From his early challenges growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Los Angeles to his prestigious roles as a professor and diplomat, Dr. Rivera discusses the importance of discovering one's unique superpower, embracing vulnerability as a strength, and redefining traditional notions of masculinity.

Together with his wife, Dr. Rivera co-founded BE ACT Change, an organization focused on aligning individuals and organizations with their purpose. He also discusses their book, 'Creating Your Limitless Life,' which provides insights into achieving authentic success beyond material trappings. Tune in for valuable lessons on mental health, family dynamics, and sustainable change.

https://www.instagram.com/be.act.change
https://www.amazon.com/CREATING-YOUR-LIMITLESS-LIFE-Terms/dp/B0CHL3RW4L

Sponsored by 23andMe, promoting proactive steps for health through genetic screening and personalized plans. http://23andme.com/duff 

00:00 Introduction: Dreams and Expectations 
00:25 Meet Dr. Paul Rivera: A Journey of Defying Expectations
01:28 Navigating Cultural Expectations and Personal Aspirations
02:22 Interview with Dr. Paul Rivera: Early Life and Influences
03:12 Growing Up Latino in Los Angeles
06:33 Balancing Work, Culture, and Personal Identity
18:30 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth
23:56 Challenging Machismo and Embracing Vulnerability
29:50 The Power of Vulnerability
30:38 Creating Safe Spaces at Home
32:11 Community Outreach and Education
33:47 Recognizing and Nurturing Potential
35:07 Discovering Your Superpower
37:03 Empowering Women in Leadership
39:04 Building Trust and Overcoming Barriers
40:21 The Journey to Self-Discovery
42:36 From Diplomacy to Entrepreneurship
43:32 The Mission of BeActChange
51:21 Advice for Feeling Stuck
56:30 Final Thoughts and Resources

Managing ADHD and Long COVID: Strategies for Cognitive Challenges In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff addresses a listener's question about the impact of COVID-19 on ADHD symptoms. The listener shares their struggles with ADHD and how contracting long COVID has exacerbated their cognitive difficulties, impacting their academic performance and daily life. Dr. Duff delves into the comorbidity of ADHD with other mental health issues, discusses research on post-COVID syndrome, and offers practical advice for seeking accommodations and support. He emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and provides steps for managing ADHD symptoms effectively. Tune in for compassionate guidance and actionable strategies to navigate ADHD in the context of long COVID.

00:00 Introduction: ADHD and COVID-19 Impact
00:33 Listener's Question: Struggles with ADHD and Long COVID
02:14 Host's Response: Acknowledging the Struggles
03:04 Understanding ADHD and Comorbidities
04:39 COVID-19's Cognitive Impact
08:16 Executive Functioning Explained
10:20 Practical Advice and Encouragement
13:21 Seeking Help and Accommodations
17:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Revolutionizing Therapy: Colleen Marshall on Two Chairs' Matching Process

 In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff interviews Colleen Marshall, Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs, a company dedicated to improving the therapy experience through innovative matching processes and measurement-based care. They discuss the current challenges in finding a suitable therapist, the importance of therapeutic alliance, and how Two Chairs' approach significantly improves client retention rates. Colleen also shares insights into her background, the systematic changes needed in therapy cultures, and the importance of culturally responsive training. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how Two Chairs is transforming mental health care by ensuring clients find the right therapist for their specific needs and continually measure treatment progress.

 00:00 The Broken Process of Finding a Therapist

01:04 Introducing Two Chairs: Revolutionizing Therapy Matching

01:52 Meet Colleen Marshall: Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs

02:44 Colleen's Journey in Mental Health and Innovation

06:22 The Importance of Therapeutic Alliance and Matching

10:17 How Two Chairs Ensures Effective Therapy

16:53 Challenges and Successes in Implementing Measurement-Based Care

28:56 Balancing Wellness and Specialty Training

29:23 Efficient Care and Graduation Goals

31:03 Insurance and Access to Therapy

32:04 Therapist's Role in Client Progress

33:52 Matching Clients with the Right Therapist

36:07 Navigating Therapy Models and Approaches

47:13 Two Chairs: Availability and Process

51:11 Future of Therapy and Cultural Responsiveness

53:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts