In this deeply informative episode, I’m joined by licensed marriage and family therapist Melissa Mose, LMFT, who brings 30 years of clinical experience to the table and a unique approach to treating OCD by integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) with traditional methods like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
Melissa shares how a personal experience—her daughter’s sudden-onset OCD—propelled her into the world of OCD treatment and changed the direction of her career. We talk through how OCD manifests, why traditional ERP can be both life-changing and difficult for people, and how IFS can offer a more compassionate, effective way to approach healing by helping clients access their internal “Self.”
We also discuss Melissa’s new book for clinicians, her training work, and the upcoming OCD SoCal Conference happening online on November 15–16, 2025.
Melissa's unexpected path from literature and mythology to psychotherapy
The sudden-onset OCD experience with her daughter that changed everything
What OCD really is – beyond stereotypes – and why it's often misunderstood
Core concepts of ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention)
How Internal Family Systems (IFS) works and its 8 C's of Self-energy
Why combining IFS and ERP may provide better outcomes for some people
“Self-led ERP” – Melissa’s integrative model for treating OCD
Real-life examples of recovery using this compassionate framework
The importance of identifying OCD early, especially in kids
Training efforts to help clinicians recognize and effectively treat OCD
Hope for those who feel “too far gone”
00:00 – Intro to Melissa Mose and IFS for OCD
03:00 – Melissa’s background and shift from English literature to psychology
08:00 – Early career in teen and family systems therapy
11:00 – Her daughter’s sudden-onset OCD and the diagnosis of PANDAS
14:30 – Navigating confusion, misdiagnosis, and treatment discovery
18:00 – What OCD actually is: the obsession-compulsion cycle
22:00 – How compulsions generalize and worsen OCD
24:30 – Introduction to ERP and how it works
29:00 – What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?
34:00 – Comparing IFS to ACT and other models
42:00 – Mapping OCD symptoms to internal "parts" using IFS
48:00 – A self-led approach to ERP: empowering the Self
50:30 – Client success stories and examples
55:00 – The rise of IFS in the OCD world
58:00 – Is IFS evidence-based for OCD?
01:00:00 – Melissa’s “Self-led ERP” model explained
01:02:00 – Workbook and practical tools coming soon
01:04:00 – How to get started with IFS
01:08:00 – Inside Out, visualization, and self-awareness
01:10:00 – Making IFS for OCD more accessible worldwide
01:12:00 – Final thoughts: hope and next steps for those struggling
🔹 Melissa Mose’s Website
https://www.melissamosemft.com/
🔹 IFS for OCD Resources and Courses
https://www.ifsforocd.com/blog
🔹 Melissa’s Book:
Internal Family Systems Therapy for OCD: A Clinician's Guide
📘 On Amazon: Buy here
📘 On Routledge: https://www.routledge.com/Internal-Family-Systems-Therapy-for-OCD-A-Clinicians-Guide/Mose/p/book/9781032583730
🔹 OCD SoCal 2025 Online Conference (November 15–16, 2025)
🌐 Full Program Info: https://ocdsocal.org/conference/
🎟️ Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-online-ocd-conference-a-global-event-tickets-1531193865069?aff=oddtdtcreator
💌 Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
🌐 Website: https://duffthepsych.com
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@duffthepsych
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
In this heartfelt and candid episode, I'm joined by Chef Chris Valdes—TV personality, cookbook author, and lifelong culinary artist—to talk about his powerful personal journey through the culinary world and the mental health struggles he’s faced along the way. From growing up in a Cuban restaurant in Miami to rising to national TV fame, Chris has seen both the bright lights and the dark corners of the kitchen. He shares stories of family, grief, hustle, and healing—including why he took a year off from everything to rediscover himself.
Whether you're in food service, struggling with burnout, or just love a good story with heart and spice, this one’s for you.
Timestamps / Chapters:
[00:00:00] Intro & Chris’s background
[00:03:00] Earliest food memory: the flan and whipped cream incident
[00:06:45] Growing up in a family restaurant
[00:08:30] Father’s imprisonment and family disruption
[00:13:00] Early entrepreneurial spirit (orange hustling!)
[00:17:00] High school struggles & turning point with Le Cordon Bleu
[00:23:00] Launching his catering company at 19
[00:26:00] First experience with depression & thoughts of ending it
[00:29:00] Hitting a wall after a breakup & GMA meltdown
[00:33:00] Psychedelic healing ceremony in Malibu
[00:38:00] Rediscovering self through solitude, therapy, and boundaries
[00:43:00] Toxic kitchen culture and normalizing mental health discussions
[00:47:00] Holiday catering chaos and internal pressure
[00:52:00] Advice on rest, recovery, and choosing yourself
[00:56:00] What’s next: books, new management, and the slow lane
[00:57:00] Signature nostalgic dish
[00:59:00] Go-to Latin spices (cumin, garlic, cilantro)
[01:01:00] What young Chris would say to 2025 Chris
[01:02:30] Where to follow and final thoughts
Links -
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefchrisvaldes
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefchrisvaldes
His cookbook - One With the Kitchen: https://www.amazon.com/One-Kitchen-Recipes-stories-inspired/dp/0578886456
Friends, welcome back to the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. This is my first interview back after a bit of a journey. I thought there was no better way to kick off this next phase of the podcast than by introducing you to a friend and brilliant human that I met in the interim.
Dr. Amy Andrea Martinez is a professor of sociology with a focus on Chicano gang culture, incarceration, and abolition. She is a total badass, and she gets vulnerable about her experiences in this conversation. We discuss how her younger brother's arrest, the development of her identity as a Xicana woman, her experiences with depression and suicidality, and her decision to build armor around her heart this year before diving back into the heart of academia and book-writing. I really hope you enjoy this one.
In this conversation, Dr. Martinez mentions this book: https://www.amazon.com/AM-Club-Morning-Elevate-Life/dp/1443456624
Stay connected:
Weekly newsletter: https://robertduff.substack.com – free tips, Q&A, and community updates.
My website: https://duffthepsych.com – articles, resources, and ways to work with me.
- Books & guides: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00NDY4THK?ccs_id=5c5cac88-b920-4fc3-809c-f592ad3b55d3 – practical mental-health guides and workbooks.
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych – daily insights, behind-the-scenes, and community chats.
In this deeply personal solo episode, Dr. Duff returns to the mic after a hiatus to share what’s been going on behind the scenes with The Hardcore Self Help Podcast. He opens up about an almost-acquisition of the show by a larger mental health organization—a deal that initially looked promising but ultimately fell through. With transparency and vulnerability, Dr. Duff reflects on the emotional and professional impact of that experience, explains why the podcast paused, and announces the exciting new direction it’s headed in.
Why the podcast went quiet for a while
A behind-the-scenes look at the attempted acquisition of the show
The emotional and logistical toll of being let down by a potential deal
Reflections on past professional disappointments outside of clinical work
What’s next: rebranding, new episode formats, and a stronger emphasis on interviews
Why connection and personal stories will be the heart of the podcast moving forward
Dr. Duff’s renewed commitment to amplifying diverse voices and lived experiences
Updates on the “Bipolar Answers” audiobook and Substack content
Thoughts on staying consistent while prioritizing quality over quantity
00:00 – 00:52 — Welcome back! What this episode is about
00:52 – 02:00 — The podcast was almost sold—here's how it started
02:00 – 03:26 — Meeting the company, expectations, and initial excitement
03:26 – 06:04 — Multiple meetings and flying out to pitch in person
06:04 – 08:00 — In-person meetings and positive vibes, but no details yet
08:00 – 10:24 — Delays, excuses, and finally: the deal falls through
10:24 – 12:25 — Processing the disappointment and reflecting on past letdowns
12:25 – 13:21 — Token compensation offered, but trust was broken
13:21 – 14:00 — What’s next: staying open to future partnerships
14:00 – 15:22 — New focus: interviews over general Q&A
15:22 – 16:48 — The unique value of human connection in storytelling
16:48 – 17:15 — Rebranding plans and more diverse guest features
17:15 – 18:17 — Finishing the audiobook, editing, and prepping new interviews
18:17 – 19:05 — Where to find Dr. Duff in the meantime and the new YouTube direction
Website: https://duffthepsych.com
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
Substack: https://robertduff.substack.com
If you’re excited about the return of the podcast, be sure to subscribe, share the new episodes with your community, and leave a review wherever you listen. Every bit of support helps relaunch this phoenix from the ashes.
In this insightful interview, I’m joined by Marcia Bonato Warren, a trauma-informed body therapist, somatic counselor, interculturalist, and author. Marcia brings over 30 years of experience working with cross-cultural mental health, and she shares a powerful lens on how identity, culture, and trauma intersect in the body.
Together, we explore the concept of embodied code switching, how our bodies carry cultural and ancestral imprints, and how healing often involves not just the mind, but movement, sensation, and deep awareness of the self. Marcia discusses her personal journey as a Brazilian and Native American woman navigating multiple cultural worlds—and how her lived experience shaped her professional path and inspired her new book.
This episode is a rich blend of personal storytelling, professional insight, and hope for a more connected, empathetic world.
Marcia’s multicultural background growing up between Pueblo traditions and Brazilian culture
What it means to experience culture somatically when language isn’t accessible
The definition and practice of embodied code switching
How somatic therapy works and how the body holds trauma, history, and healing
Cultural embodiment and the importance of body-based awareness across social, emotional, and environmental realms
The internal work of bridging identities that may feel in conflict
Intergenerational trauma and healing as a form of cultural resilience
Marcia’s new book as a form of protest and empowerment amid sociopolitical turmoil
The value of curiosity and reclaiming our sense of wonder
00:00 – Intro to Marcia and her multicultural upbringing
04:30 – Advocating through names and early sense of identity
09:00 – Growing up between cultures and learning through somatic experience
14:00 – Noticing what it feels like to “not belong” in any cultural space
17:00 – The physical experience of fitting in (or not)
20:00 – What is somatic counseling and body-based psychotherapy?
24:00 – Holding multiple identities and forming relationships between them
28:00 – Embodied code switching: definitions and origins
35:00 – Identity, trauma, and resilience in the nervous system
40:00 – Diversity, empathy, and learning across differences
43:30 – Somatics, symbolism, and healing in therapy
47:00 – Marcia’s career in advocacy and transition to therapy
52:00 – Her new book as resistance and hope in a polarized world
58:30 – Book structure, audience, and why it matters now
1:06:00 – Final reflections on curiosity, awareness, and personal power
Website: https://www.embodiedculture.com
Book Info & Resources: https://www.embodiedcodeswitching.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marciabonatowarren
Buy the Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Movement-Identity-Multiculturalism-Awareness-Code-Switching/dp/1839978376
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Website: https://duffthepsych.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review, sharing it with a friend, or tagging me on social to let me know your thoughts. And if Marcia’s story resonated with you, I’d love to hear how this conversation landed.
In this episode, Dr. Duff takes on two powerful listener questions in a raw and compassionate Q&A format.
The first question comes from a survivor of extensive childhood abuse, religious trauma, and complex family dynamics, who is wrestling with the decision of whether or not to publish a deeply personal memoir. Dr. Duff dives into the emotional, psychological, and ethical layers of this situation, offering validation, insight, and a heartfelt reminder that healing and storytelling can be acts of empowerment.
The second question comes from a newly single parent facing feelings of loneliness and hopelessness after a recent divorce. After a disappointing family trip, they wonder if happiness is still possible in this new chapter of life. Dr. Duff breaks down the process of emotional adjustment, the importance of realistic expectations, and how small steps can lead to renewed hope and connection.
As always, this episode is filled with empathy, nuance, and practical encouragement for anyone going through dark or uncertain times.
The complexities of publishing a memoir about trauma and abuse
Understanding the impact of complex PTSD and generational trauma
Navigating family threats and estrangement with personal boundaries
Grieving the loss of an idealized future after divorce
Why happiness doesn’t have to look how you thought it would
Tips for finding support and resilience as a single parent
The value of community, therapy, and chosen family
00:00 – Intro and personal update
03:00 – Content warning for the first question
04:05 – Listener story: Surviving severe childhood abuse and family rejection
07:00 – Dr. Duff reflects on complex PTSD and trauma recovery
08:30 – The power of isolation in abusive systems
10:00 – Complicated dynamics with the listener’s mother
11:30 – Should I publish my book about my trauma?
13:00 – Weighing the risks and benefits of publishing under a pseudonym
14:30 – Standing in your truth despite family pushback
15:00 – Listener story: Facing loneliness and doubt after divorce
16:30 – Grieving the version of life you hoped for
18:00 – Family disappointment and changing dynamics
19:30 – The importance of time and realistic expectations
21:00 – Children often remember things differently than we expect
22:00 – Challenging fatalistic thoughts about the future
23:30 – Modeling resilience and authenticity for your kids
24:30 – Final thoughts and encouragement
Episode 130: Complex PTSD – What It Is and How to Recover
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@duffthepsych
More mental health content at: https://www.duffthepsych.com
Have a question you'd like answered on the show? Reach out any time:
📧 Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
🌐 Website: duffthepsych.com
📷 Instagram: instagram.com/duffthepsych
📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@duffthepsych
If you’ve gotten something out of the podcast and haven’t left a review yet, now’s a perfect time—especially if you’re an Apple Podcasts listener. We're close to hitting 1,000 reviews, and every one helps others find the show and supports the mission of accessible mental health content.
In this episode, I address two deeply personal listener questions that highlight the complex nature of anxiety and emotional healing in relationships.
The first question comes from a listener who has struggled with anxiety for most of their life, recently facing severe limitations due to Generalized Anxiety Disorder and medication changes. We talk about the genetic components of anxiety, the risks of benzodiazepines in older adults, and the importance of advocating for the right care—even if that means seeking new providers or considering higher levels of treatment.
The second question dives into the emotional fallout after infidelity. A listener is working to rebuild their marriage after their wife’s emotional and physical affairs but finds themselves overwhelmed by anger and trauma in the aftermath. I explore the importance of time, trauma-informed coping strategies, and how rebuilding trust is possible with consistent effort and support.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety yourself or navigating complex relationship dynamics, this episode offers validation, practical advice, and hope.
Question 1: Genetic Anxiety and Benzodiazepines
Anxiety can be partially genetic—up to 50% of risk may be inherited.
Environmental factors, early life experiences, and chronic stress also play key roles.
Long-term anxiety can even change brain structures like the amygdala.
Benzodiazepines such as Xanax and Klonopin can be risky for older adults, but abrupt changes in medication are harmful and inappropriate.
Importance of finding the right provider—psychiatric care may be more appropriate than primary care in severe cases.
Options like partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient programs, or even voluntary hospitalization if suicidal thoughts worsen.
Consideration of alternative treatments like TMS, ketamine therapy, EMDR, or comprehensive medical workups.
Encouragement and validation that meaningful change is possible—even later in life.
Question 2: Healing from Infidelity
Emotional and physical infidelity can lead to feelings of inadequacy and intense emotional reactivity.
The resurfacing of past wounds during present-day arguments is a trauma response.
Healing takes time; both partners must commit to rebuilding trust.
Grounding, breathing, and self-regulation tools are essential in emotional moments.
Individual therapy and journaling can help process complex feelings and trauma.
Couples therapy with a specialist in infidelity recovery can provide structure and support.
It's possible to rebuild a stronger relationship—but it takes honest effort from both sides.
00:00 – Intro
01:12 – Listener question: Is anxiety genetic?
03:22 – Genetics vs. environment in anxiety development
05:10 – Medication history and benzodiazepine concerns for older adults
08:45 – Advocating for appropriate psychiatric care
12:30 – Suicidal thoughts and higher levels of support
14:50 – Exploring alternative and emerging treatment options
17:15 – Words of encouragement and validation
19:45 – Listener question: Coping with infidelity and feeling inadequate
21:20 – Emotional fallout and trauma from betrayal
24:10 – Regulating emotional responses during arguments
26:00 – The role of time, patience, and couples therapy
28:20 – Journaling and individual processing for long-term healing
31:10 – Rebuilding a stronger relationship after infidelity
33:00 – Closing thoughts and takeaways
Website: http://duffthepsych.com
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
If today’s episode resonated with you, consider leaving a review or sharing it with someone who could use the support. Your stories and questions continue to make this podcast what it is—thank you for being here.
Until next time, take care and keep pushing forward. You've got this.
Just a quick update! Back to regularly scheduled programming next week!
Pre-Order Bipolar Answers https://www.amazon.com/Bipolar-Answers-Questions-Answered-Psychologist-ebook/dp/B0F1DW5WQZ/
In this special episode, Dr. Robert Duff announces the pre-order launch of his latest book, Bipolar Answers: Questions from Real People Answered by a Real Psychologist. To celebrate, he provides listeners with an exclusive reading of the book’s introduction and one full chapter, giving a firsthand look at what to expect. This book is built from real questions asked on The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, expanded with deeper insights, case studies, and practical strategies for managing bipolar disorder.
Dr. Duff shares details about the book’s structure, how it tackles common misconceptions, and why he felt compelled to write it. He also reads a powerful chapter about navigating college after a bipolar episode, offering valuable guidance on advocacy, accommodations, and resilience.
Timestamps:
[00:00] – Introduction and book announcement: Bipolar Answers is now available for pre-order on Amazon!
[02:00] – What the book covers: real questions, practical answers, case studies, and clear explanations.
[03:00] – Full reading of the book’s introduction, covering the basics of bipolar disorder, diagnostic criteria, and case study of Olivia, a professional managing bipolar I.
[18:00] – Full chapter reading: Navigating college after a bipolar episode.
[24:00] – The importance of self-advocacy, understanding accommodations, and legal rights for students and employees with bipolar disorder.
[37:00] – Encouragement and final thoughts: Pre-order now and stay tuned for updates on the print and audiobook releases.
Key Takeaways:
Bipolar Answers is designed to cut through misinformation and offer real, actionable advice.
Bipolar disorder is complex and often misunderstood—this book provides a clear and stigma-free breakdown.
Returning to school or work after a bipolar episode can be daunting, but knowing your rights and advocating for yourself can make all the difference.
The book includes real-life examples, diagnostic clarifications, and practical tools for individuals living with bipolar and those supporting them.
Connect with Dr. Robert Duff:
Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might find it helpful! Your support means the world.
Episode 433: Navigating PTSD Triggers & Overcoming Shame
In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I tackle two listener questions related to PTSD, trauma, and the emotional challenges that come with them. The first question is from someone who is deeply affected by their environment, living in a house that serves as a constant PTSD trigger. They want to move forward but feel completely stuck. The second question is about dealing with strong emotional reactions in public and the embarrassment that follows. I offer compassionate, practical advice to help both listeners begin taking steps toward healing and self-acceptance.
What We Cover in This Episode:
Understanding why trauma responses persist and how they impact daily life
The role of avoidance in PTSD and how to begin addressing it
Practical strategies for tackling overwhelming life changes
How to communicate with a therapist about deeply buried trauma
The importance of seeking trauma-informed therapy and possible medication options
Exposure techniques for gradually confronting PTSD triggers
Journaling as a tool for processing trauma at your own pace
Overcoming embarrassment when experiencing emotional reactions in public
Using gratitude as a way to shift focus from shame to connection
Coping strategies to regulate emotions and build resilience
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & request for listener questions
02:00 – Listener question: Living in a house that triggers PTSD
05:00 – Why trauma responses persist and the role of avoidance
10:00 – Communicating openly with a therapist about severe trauma
12:00 – Seeking trauma-informed therapy and medication considerations
16:00 – Making an actionable plan to move forward and sell the house
21:00 – Practical steps to start addressing home repairs and tasks
22:00 – Listener question: Managing PTSD emotional reactions in public
24:00 – Using gratitude to counter feelings of shame and embarrassment
27:00 – Grounding techniques and exposure exercises to build resilience
30:00 – The importance of seeking support from others
32:00 – Closing thoughts & listener engagement request
Connect with Me:
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with someone who might benefit. And as always, take care of yourself!
In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with the incredible psychotherapist and author, Terri Cole, to discuss high-functioning codependency, boundaries, and how we can break free from people-pleasing tendencies. Terri shares her own journey from working in the entertainment industry to becoming a therapist and how her personal struggles with boundaries led her to specialize in this area. We dive deep into the traits of high-functioning codependency, where it comes from, and actionable steps you can take to create healthier relationships and reclaim your inner peace.
Terri’s journey from talent agent to psychotherapist
Recognizing high-functioning codependency in yourself
How childhood and societal expectations shape codependency
The role of self-awareness and therapy in breaking codependency patterns
Practical tools for overcoming codependent tendencies
The importance of setting boundaries and learning to say no
How to conduct a resentment inventory and why it’s helpful
Addressing difficult family dynamics around social and political issues
How Terri’s book, Too Much, can help you break free from codependency
00:00 – Introduction to Terri Cole and her background
01:00 – How Terri transitioned from talent agent to psychotherapist
16:00 – Recognizing high-functioning codependency
25:00 – Childhood & societal influences on codependency
30:00 – The importance of self-awareness and therapy
39:00 – Practical tools for overcoming codependency
42:00 – Navigating difficult family dynamics
49:00 – Setting boundaries and learning to say no
52:00 – Conducting a resentment inventory
58:00 – How Too Much can help you break free
Too Much by Terri Cole: https://www.terricole.com
High-Functioning Codependency Toolkit: https://www.terricole.com/HFC
Mastermind program (Flourish): https://www.terricole.com/flourish
Terri’s membership community: https://www.terricole.com/TCM
The Terri Cole Show Podcast: https://www.terricole.com/podcast
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with someone who might benefit. And as always, take care of yourself!
Episode 431: Pathological Demand Avoidance in Coaching & Persistent Depression
Welcome to another episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Dr. Robert Duff! In this Q&A episode, Dr. Duff tackles two insightful listener questions on very different but equally important mental health topics.
A listener working as an individual sports coach seeks advice on how to best support a talented but highly resistant student who displays signs of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Dr. Duff dives into:
What PDA is and how it manifests in individuals, particularly in relation to autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions.
The importance of reframing PDA as a high drive for autonomy rather than defiance.
Practical coaching strategies to work around demand avoidance, including collaborative goal setting, offering choices, and making training sessions more engaging and playful.
The significance of open-ended questions and genuine curiosity in understanding the root of a student’s resistance.
A listener describes their struggle with long-term, low-grade depression despite attempts with medication and therapy. Dr. Duff provides insights into:
Understanding Persistent Depressive Disorder (formerly known as dysthymia) and how it differs from episodic major depression.
Behavioral activation as a treatment approach, including strategies for identifying and engaging in potentially enjoyable activities despite a lack of motivation or pleasure.
The five-minute rule to help overcome resistance to activities.
Medication considerations, including alternatives like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and the combination drug Auvelity, which may have fewer side effects.
Non-medication treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and ketamine therapy.
The importance of evaluating life circumstances to identify external contributors to chronic depression, such as hidden identity struggles or unsatisfying relationships.
[00:00] Intro and updates on Dr. Duff’s upcoming bipolar book
[03:00] Question 1: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in coaching
[12:00] Strategies for engaging students with PDA
[14:00] Question 2: Chronic low-grade depression and treatment options
[19:00] Behavioral activation and the five-minute rule
[23:00] Medication alternatives and non-pharmacological treatments
[27:00] Life circumstances and their role in persistent depression
[28:00] Outro and listener support requests
Dr. Duff’s website: http://duffthepsych.com
Email your questions: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Follow Dr. Duff on Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
Dr. Duff’s book “Hardcore Self Help: F**k Depression”: https://www.amazon.com/Hardcore-Self-Help-Depression/dp/B01J4H5A40
Previous episodes on TMS and ketamine treatments: http://duffthepsych.com/podcast
More on ketamine treatments: https://duffthepsych.com/ect-and-ketamine/
Thank you for tuning in! If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review. Your support helps the podcast grow and reach more people who need it. See you next time!
Episode 430: Integrative Approaches to Recovery with Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri
In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri, also known as Dr. Mala, to discuss her integrative approach to addiction recovery, rehabilitation, and mental health treatment. Dr. Mala shares her personal journey that led her into the field, the importance of holistic and individualized treatment, and how she has worked to break down barriers in accessing quality care.
Dr. Mala’s personal journey into psychology and addiction recovery work
The challenges of pushing for integrative mental health care
How trauma informed her approach to treatment
The importance of cultural competence in mental health and recovery
Understanding addiction recovery as a non-linear process
The necessity of breaking isolation in the recovery journey
The evolving role of virtual therapy and accessibility in mental health care
How alternative and holistic approaches such as yoga, meditation, and adventure therapy are valuable in rehabilitation
The role of family and loved ones in supporting recovery
How to advocate for personalized treatment if current options aren’t working
Resources available through Recovery.com for both individuals and families
00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Mala and her background
02:00 – How Dr. Mala entered the field of psychology and recovery
06:00 – Why she emphasizes integrative approaches in treatment
10:00 – Challenges in advocating for a holistic recovery model
12:00 – Misconceptions about addiction and recovery
16:00 – The importance of connection and breaking isolation
21:00 – Alternative therapeutic approaches that work
27:00 – The role of family and community in recovery
33:00 – Steps to take if current treatment isn’t effective
38:00 – Recovery.com and available resources
44:00 – Final words of wisdom for those struggling or supporting a loved one
Recovery.com: https://www.recovery.com
Recovery.com Podcast: https://www.recovery.com/podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoverydotcom
Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/duffthepsych
If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with someone who might benefit. And as always, take care of yourself!
In this solo Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I answer two deeply personal and important listener questions. The first comes from a trans man struggling with the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, fear for his safety, and overwhelming feelings of hopelessness. We talk about tangible ways to navigate the stress of doomscrolling, finding community, and taking back control in uncertain times.
The second question dives into the pain of heartbreak—specifically, the loss of a best friend after unrequited love. I discuss how to process grief, handle regret, and move forward when a relationship changes in ways you didn’t expect. Whether you're facing fear, loss, or uncertainty, this episode offers support, validation, and practical steps to help you through it.
00:00 — Intro: You Are Seen, You Are Valid
02:00 — Shoutout to the Finch App: A Fun Self-Care Tool
03:00 — Coping with Fear & Uncertainty as a Trans Person in a Hostile Climate
10:30 — Managing Doomscrolling & Social Media Overwhelm
14:00 — The Importance of Community & Seeking Safe Spaces
18:00 — Mental Health Resources & Seeking Support
19:00 — Handling Unrequited Love & The Pain of Heartbreak
22:30 — Why You’re Not to Blame for How Things Changed
24:00 — Navigating Grief & Loss in Relationships
27:30 — The Power of Solo Time & Rebuilding Your Life
29:00 — Closing Thoughts & Next Episode Preview
• Finch App – A self-care companion that makes mental health a little more fun! Download here
• Trans Lifeline – www.translifeline.org | (877) 565-8860
• The Trevor Project – www.thetrevorproject.org | Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth
• Find a Therapist – www.psychologytoday.com
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My goal is to break down mental health topics into real, relatable, and actionable advice. Whether it's tackling anxiety, navigating personal challenges, or discussing the latest in psychology, I’m here to help you thrive.
🌐 Website: www.duffthepsych.com
📷 Instagram: @duffthepsych
🎥 YouTube: Dr. Duff’s Channel
💙 If this episode resonates with you, please rate & review the podcast, and share it with someone who might need it. You are not alone.
#MentalHealth #LGBTQSupport #Heartbreak #CopingSkills #SelfCare #Doomscrolling #HardcoreSelfHelp
In today’s episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with world-renowned psychiatrist, author, and DBT expert Dr. Blaise Aguirre to tackle the complex topic of self-hatred. As a pioneer in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and adolescent mental health at McLean Hospital, Dr. Aguirre offers a compassionate and illuminating perspective on how self-hatred forms, why it’s so persistent, and how we can work toward healing.
Dr. Aguirre explains why self-hatred is often learned early in life through invalidating experiences and abusive environments and why it differs from self-criticism or depression. He introduces practical tools to break free from self-loathing, such as identifying its roots, recognizing toxic relationships, and taking steps to separate identity from these damaging beliefs.
We also discuss the challenges of treating patients with self-hatred, the transformative power of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and how his latest book, I Hate Myself, provides a groundbreaking resource for those suffering from this deeply ingrained struggle.
If you’ve ever wrestled with feelings of unworthiness or struggled to overcome negative beliefs about yourself, this episode is packed with strategies, hope, and actionable advice to help you move toward a healthier relationship with yourself.
00:15 — Introduction: Meet Dr. Blaise Aguirre
02:00 — From Philosophy to Psychiatry: Dr. Aguirre’s Career Path
07:30 — Understanding Self-Hatred: How It Develops and Why It Persists
15:00 — The Role of Validation in Parenting and Mental Health
20:45 — The DBT Approach: Why Skills-Based Therapy Works for BPD and Self-Hatred
27:00 — Breaking Down Self-Hatred: Separating It from the Self
34:20 — Overcoming Self-Hatred: Practical Tools and Steps for Healing
40:15 — The Importance of Compassionate Treatment in Mental Health Care
45:00 — A Sneak Peek Into I Hate Myself
50:20 — What Parents and Caregivers Need to Know
57:00 — Dr. Aguirre’s Final Thoughts on Healing and Hope
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to break down complex mental health topics into relatable, actionable advice. On this podcast, we dive deep into mental health, personal development, and the strategies that help us thrive. Each episode features expert interviews, practical tips, and answers to listener questions, all designed to help you live a healthier, more fulfilled life.
This episode is brought to you by NoCD, a leading provider of virtual therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If intrusive thoughts and compulsions are impacting your daily life, NoCD offers specialized Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. To learn more about OCD and how NOCD Therapy can help, visit http://learn.nocd.com/
Hope you find this conversation as inspiring and thought-provoking as I did! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and takeaways in the comments.
#MentalHealth #SelfHatred #BlaiseAguirre #DBT #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #SelfCompassion #TraumaHealing #Parenting #Mindfulness #SelfHelp
In this special episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I lead you through a guided meditation designed to help you let go of mental burdens and find focus in an overwhelming world. Using visualization techniques and intentional breathing exercises, this meditation offers a space to acknowledge your stressors, release tension, and tap into a feeling of calm and clarity.
This experience is set in a vivid mindscape of space, where you can imagine yourself aboard a futuristic spacecraft, surrounded by the beauty of the cosmos. Together, we’ll navigate through moments of recognition, release, and rejuvenation. By the end of this session, you’ll feel more centered and grounded, with a renewed connection to how you’d like to move forward.
Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to mindfulness, this episode is a judgment-free zone to focus on yourself. Bookmark it to return to anytime you need a mental reset.
Sponsor
This episode is brought to you by NOCD, a leading provider of virtual therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If you’re stuck in cycles of overthinking, compulsive behaviors, or intrusive thoughts, NOCD offers specialized treatment using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—a gold-standard therapy for OCD.
They provide virtual sessions with licensed therapists, accept many major insurance plans, and offer support between sessions to make treatment as accessible as possible.
To learn more about OCD and how NOCD Therapy can help, visit http://learn.nocd.com/
Chapters:
About the Podcast
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to make mental health topics relatable and actionable. Whether through guided meditations like this one, Q&A sessions, or expert interviews, I aim to help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.
Connect With Me:
Hashtags:
#GuidedMeditation #Mindfulness #MentalHealth #Relaxation #StressRelief #SelfHelp
In this inspiring episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jordan Grumet, a hospice director, author, and podcast host, to explore how we can transform our lives by embracing the concept of “little p purpose.” Dr. Grumet shares insights from his latest book, The Purpose Code, which offers actionable strategies to uncover and build a meaningful life, regardless of your circumstances.
Our conversation dives deep into the difference between “big P Purpose” (society’s lofty, often unattainable ideals) and “little p purpose” (daily actions that bring joy and meaning). Dr. Grumet shares his personal journey—from losing his father at a young age to becoming a physician driven by unresolved trauma, to ultimately finding fulfillment by pursuing his passions for writing, speaking, and connecting with others.
Key takeaways from our discussion include practical ways to recognize your purpose anchors, how to turn regrets into motivations, and why pursuing joy in small, intentional ways can lead to profound impact and lasting legacy. We also explore how Dr. Grumet’s work in hospice has shaped his understanding of what truly matters in life, highlighting lessons from those at the end of their journeys.
This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone feeling stuck, searching for meaning, or simply looking to live with more intentionality and joy.
Sponsor
This episode is brought to you by NOCD, a leading provider of virtual therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If you're caught in an endless loop of “what-ifs” or struggling with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, NOCD offers specialized, evidence-based therapy designed just for OCD—Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). They accept many major insurance plans, making it accessible and affordable, with support available between therapy sessions.
To learn more about OCD and how NOCD Therapy can help, visit http://learn.nocd.com/
Chapters:
About the Podcast
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to break down complex mental health topics into relatable, actionable advice. Each episode dives deep into mental health, personal development, and strategies for living authentically and fulfilling your potential.
Guest Links
Connect With Me:
#MentalHealth #Purpose #PersonalDevelopment #Legacy #SelfHelp #Mindfulness