Psycho Therapy is a show dedicated to giving survivors of bad therapy, therapy harm/abuse, and pastoral counseling harm a platform to share their experiences with…the psycho in the therapists chair.
The Psycho Therapy podcast is a valuable and much-needed resource for anyone who has experienced therapy harm. With a charming host, Leah, leading the conversations, this podcast offers a unique perspective on the often-taboo topic of negative therapeutic experiences. The podcast shines a light on the potential pitfalls of therapy while also providing guidance on how to navigate these issues and find better mental health care.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is Leah's ability to tell compelling stories and keep the audience engaged. Her storytelling skills make each episode captivating, allowing listeners to connect with her own experiences and empathize with others who have gone through therapy harm. Additionally, Leah's vulnerability in sharing her own story adds authenticity and relatability to the discussions.
Another positive aspect of The Psycho Therapy podcast is its role in raising awareness about therapy harm. This topic is not widely talked about, yet it affects many individuals who have sought help through therapy. By bringing attention to this issue, the podcast serves as a source of validation and support for those who have experienced trauma or damage as a result of their therapeutic relationships.
While there are plenty of great aspects to this podcast, one potential downside is that it may be triggering for some listeners who have had traumatic therapy experiences. Hearing stories and discussions about therapy harm may bring up painful memories or emotions. However, the host makes an effort to provide trigger warnings at the beginning of episodes, allowing listeners to make an informed decision about whether they are ready to engage with the content.
In conclusion, The Psycho Therapy podcast fills an important gap in conversations surrounding mental health by shedding light on therapy harm. Through powerful storytelling and open dialogue, host Leah provides a platform for healing from harmful therapeutic experiences while also educating listeners on how to recognize red flags in their own therapist-client relationships. This podcast brings much-needed awareness to an often-overlooked issue and offers hope for those seeking better mental health care.
In this raw and deeply moving interview, survivor Lori Anne Thompson shares her personal story of being groomed and abused by Ravi Zacharias. While their relationship wasn't formally pastoral counseling, it carried many of the same power dynamics—spiritual authority, trust, and vulnerability. Lori Anne reflects on the factors in her life that made her more susceptible to abuse, the manipulative tactics used under the guise of faith, and the systems that enabled it. We also confront the church's role in victim-blaming and explore what authentic healing looks like after betrayal by a spiritual leader.
This week, I'm joined by Julie Anne Smith, the voice behind The Spiritual Sounding Board, a blog dedicated to exposing church abuse and shedding light on the harmful effects of patriarchy, particularly for women. Julie Anne shares her personal experience with biblical counseling and how it left her feeling injured. Together, we explore the ways in which the church can perpetuate toxic dynamics and how we can work toward healing and accountability.
In today's episode, we explore Biblical counseling — what it is, how it can help, and how it can harm. Our guest, Noelle, joins us to walk through the key principles, practices, and potential pitfalls.
Today's episode marks the start of our in-depth series on the potential harms of faith-based counseling, examining how scripture can sometimes be misused as a tool of control rather than healing. Approximately one-quarter of U.S. adults—about 28 percent—identify as evangelical Christians, and many turn to church-run counseling rather than licensed therapists. But what are the consequences when Christian nationalism, purity culture, and patriarchy influence the guidance given, leading to harmful practices and the reinforcement of abusive systems?In this first episode, I am joined by Peter Bell, host of the Sons of Patriarchy podcast, to explore how “Bible-only” therapy often silences survivors, how patriarchal theology shapes advice on relationships and mental health, and the critical warning signs when pastoral care shifts into manipulation and control. This conversation serves as the foundation for the important discussions that follow throughout the series.
Former therapist Daniel Mackler offers a critical insider's perspective on the mental health field, exposing the flaws and hidden harms within the therapy system. We discuss why he left the profession, the ways therapy can sometimes do more harm than good, and what he believes needs to change. https://youtu.be/IwS7HyA6Oaw?si=3kE8A5wOBEv8pSEQ
In the conclusion of Maya and Justin's story, we reveal what it meant for Maya to be legally kidnapped—cut off from her father, family, and friends for seven months—and the harrowing escape that brought her and her little brother back home. But their fight didn't end there. Even after breaking free, they faced a court system determined to silence them. Reunification therapy is supposed to heal families, but for too many children, it's a weapon of control. Maya and Justin's story is a warning—because if it can happen to them, it can happen to anyone.
Within this episode, we hear from a father and daughter about a court-ordered intervention that claims to heal families — but often silences the very people it's meant to help.What happens when children's voices are ignored? When protecting them is framed as a crime?We'll explore one family's experience inside the controversial world of reunification therapy — and how the system designed to keep families together can become the final step in tearing them apart.
This week, we continue our deep dive into the family court system with an exclusive interview featuring Rachel Pickrel Hawkins, whose story made national headlines. Sourced from The Washington Post, Julie Roys' investigative work, and Rachel herself, we explore the events that led to her arrest for interfering with reunification therapy. Rachel shares her harrowing experience of fighting for her children's safety after alleging that her ex-husband—a police officer—sexually assaulted their child and abused their son. We'll discuss how the court system and reunification therapy impacted her family and examine the systemic failures that put protective parents in impossible situations.
In this final episode, Leah Moses transforms her grief into action, working tirelessly to pass Om's Law—a landmark initiative aimed at reforming the family court system. Following the devastating murder-suicide of her son, Om Moses Gandhi, at the hands of her ex-husband, psychologist Dr. Parth Gandhi, Leah's journey becomes one of resilience and advocacy. As she navigates the challenges of pushing for systemic change, Leah sheds light on the flaws in family court procedures and the need for stronger safeguards against abuse. This emotional conclusion highlights her unwavering commitment to ensuring that Om's death will not be in vain, as she fights to protect other children and families from similar tragedies.
In part two of this heartbreaking survivor testimony, Leah Moses shares her devastating experience with her ex-husband, Dr. Parth Gandhi, a psychologist who used his position to manipulate and abuse vulnerable individuals. Leah exposes the deep failures of ethical boards and family courts that not only ignored her warnings but gave her abuser access to their children—leading to an unimaginable tragedy. This episode reveals the dark intersection of predatory therapists, systemic negligence, and the family court system's role in perpetuating abuse. Leah's story is a searing call for systemic change to protect families and hold predators accountable. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com podcast.psychotherapy@gmail.com
In this gripping survivor testimony, Leah Moses recounts her experience with her former husband, Dr. Parth Gandhi, a psychologist who worked with children and was involved in the Teen Industry. Dr. Gandhi, a known sexual predator, exploited his position as a therapist to manipulate and abuse vulnerable individuals, including using psychedelic therapy as a tool for sexual exploitation. Leah shares the devastating impact of the failure of both ethical boards and family court systems, which failed to protect her and instead gave her abuser access to their child, leading to an unimaginable tragedy. This episode highlights the intersection of predatory therapists, the Teen Industry, and the family court system, exposing how these systems can enable abusers while harming protective parents. Leah's testimony is a powerful call for reform to ensure that vulnerable families are protected from such predators. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com podcast.psychotherapy@gmail.com
The story begins with a phone call from a distressed former client of Mollys ex-husband, Mark, who is a psychologist. Despite his behavior being flagged many times over the years, Mark always managed to skirt systems intended to protect the public. This woman's plea for help only confirmed what Molly had long since discovered about Mark...that he was a predator. www.psychotherapy-podcast.compodcast.psychotherapy@gmail.com
In part two of this series, we dive even deeper into the nuanced behaviors of unethical or abusive therapists that often fly under the radar. These aren't the obvious infractions you'll find in a Google search—they're the manipulative dynamics and emotional tactics that create a false sense of safety and trust. We explore how these subtle actions can foster emotional dependency, blur boundaries, and mirror childhood trauma patterns, making them especially harmful for clients with complex PTSD. This continuation sheds light on the hidden layers of harm, empowering you to identify and address these red flags before deeper damage occurs. podcast.psychotherapy.com https://www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast
When you search for “red flags in therapy,” you'll often find a list of glaring violations—like a therapist making sexual advances or sharing inappropriate personal details. But for therapy harm survivors, the reality is far more nuanced. In this episode, we explore the subtle groundwork that unethical or abusive therapists lay long before major boundary violations occur. By sharing insights from survivors and reflections from personal experience, we shine a light on these overlooked warning signs to help you protect yourself. podcast.psychotherapy.com https://www.psychotherapy-podcast.com
Join us for part two of Rose's story of therapy harm and betrayal. In this episode Rose and her husband share the devastating impact her longtime therapist had on their marriage after crossing professional boundaries and pursuing Rose's husband. https://search.app/i7XuULY6DqN4Poif7 podcast.pyschotherapy@gmail.com
In today's episode, we hear from Rose and her spouse Scott, about the deep betrayal and predatory behavior of a therapist Rose had trusted, respected, and admired for almost a decade. Someone who had truly helped her, only to later betray her.
In this episode, author and therapist Dr. Angela Sells shares her personal experience with erotic transference and boundary violations by a therapist, offering a deeply intimate perspective on the lasting impact of such exploitation. Drawing parallels between her own story and the subject of her doctoral dissertation, Sabina Spielrein—a pioneering psychoanalyst who faced similar transgressions—Dr. Sells explores the enduring legacy of sexual exploitation in the therapeutic relationship. https://pleaseseeme.com/issue-3/nonfiction/the-rapist-angela-sells/ https://a.co/d/hiOJD0w msangelasells.com Psycho.therapy@gmail.com www.psychotherapy-podcast.com
In todays's episode, we hear from Aundria Adams, author of the forthcoming memoir Wire Monkeys, along with other survivors who share their experiences with a well respected, wealthy, and sophisticated psychologist. Evenings that began with fine dining and Broadway shows ultimately ending in a courtroom. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com aundriaadams.com
Ellie's story of therapy harm began as a teen living in Gary, Indiana, where she grew up under the weight of strict, high control religion. Pushed into treatment, she was placed under the care of a therapist who made her uneasy. Even many years later, she found herself wondering and doubting her experience. Recent events however, have brought Ellie the validation she longed for. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that gut instincts should not be ignored. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com
The troubled teen industry encompasses various programs and facilities aimed at modifying behavior in adolescents deemed "problematic" by parents and authorities. In this episode we sit down with author and survivor Meg Appelgate to discuss the efficacy, ethics and potential long term psychological out comes of these treatment programs.
In todays episode we continue the story of Halina, a therapist who was harmed by her own therapist. Halina sheds light on the board complaint process, revealing the lengths to which an unethical therapist might go to discredit a client. Halina's story underscores the importance of understanding these tactics to better prepare survivors in navigating the complaint process. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast
In this first episode we introduce Halina, a then grad student seeking therapy to manage her anxiety. As she begins her sessions, Halina realizes that her new therapist has more problems than she does. The therapist's issues and unprofessional behavior ultimately lead Halina to file a complaint with the licensing board. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast
The story begins with a phone call from a distressed former client of Mollys ex-husband, Mark, who is a psychologist. Despite his behavior being flagged many times over the years, Mark always managed to skirt systems intended to protect the public. This woman's plea for help only confirmed what Molly had long since discovered about Mark...that he was a predator. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com podcast.psychotherapy@gmail.com
Cultural anthropologist Jerika Heinze shares her personal story of being groomed as an adult by a trusted mentor. This profound experience and its aftermath propelled her into advocacy work. She is now recognized as an expert on the topic of adult grooming. Jerika is the founder of The Field Work Initiate, an organization that addresses sexual harassment in research fieldwork worldwide. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com www.fieldworkinitiative.org
In this second episode, part two with Survivor Amy Nordhues, Amy recounts her experiences of grooming within a psychiatrist's office and the profound sense of isolation and alienation by her church community, ultimately leading to her seeking validation through the legal system.
In this episode, author and guest, Amy Nordhues, details a deeply personal and harrowing narrative of vulnerability, trust, and betrayal at the hands of a revered Psychiatrist and church elder. Amy sheds light on the insidious nature of adult grooming and the impact of abuse on ones psyche and sense of safety. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast
Eva, a devoted wife and mother sought support from a therapist when she felt drained from caregiving. Initially helpful, she began to see signs that her therapist might not be well. As things escalated, she found herself caring not just for herself but for her therapist turned abuser. https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast www.psychotherapy-podcast.com
In today's episode, author and guest Linda Pevac, who also goes by Emma Stevens, recounts her time under the "care" of her psychologist and next-door neighbor, Dr. Brenner. With the aid of both time and perspective, Linda, sheds light on how exploitative therapists like Dr. Brenner can gain a foothold in the lives of vulnerable clients. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast
In this episode we delve into the controversial world of ex-gay conversion therapy. From its historical roots to its modern-day implications, we explore the harmful effects of attempting to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. In this interview with our guest, Samuel, we uncover the psychological, emotional, and even physical toll this practice takes on LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, we examine the ethical concerns surrounding ex-gay conversion therapy and discuss efforts to ban it in various parts of the country. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this deeply divisive issue and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and safety in metal health field. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast https://www.instagram.com/mx.domestic/
Outwardly, Esther, a therapist, might appear to be consistently well-adjusted and confident. However, she harbors a deeply traumatic past, marked by experiences of loss, abandonment, neglect, and abuse. In this episode, she candidly recounts her ordeal of pastoral counseling abuse and the coercive control she endured while undergoing inpatient electric convulsive therapy. https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast Podcast.psychotherapy@gmail.com
In this episode, host, Leah Denton, candidly recounts her personal encounter with therapy harm, exploring the factors that contributed to her vulnerability within the therapeutic process. Join her as she reflects on her journey and the motivations behind launching the Psycho Therapy Podcast.
Introducing the launch trailer for Psycho Therapy with Leah Denton. Join us bi-weekly as survivors of therapy harm share their stories. Together we explore the profound damage that can occur at the hands of the wrong kind of therapist. The damage that occurs when a system intended for healing instead becomes a source of further harm. www.psychotherapy-podcast.com https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast
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