Podcast appearances and mentions of kati morton

Why does your brain feel like it's working against you when you're depressed? In this episode, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton answers deep viewer questions to unpack what is actively happening in the body and brain during depressive episodes and periods of suicidal ideation. We challenge the traditional "chemical imbalance" framework to look at the modern science of mental health: how different regions of the brain communicate, why your HPA axis can get stuck in a chronic stress response, and the clinical data pointing to systemic inflammation as a primary driver of depressive symptoms. Plus, Kati breaks down the absolute differences between clinical depression, situational sadness, grief, and passive vs. active suicidal thoughts. What We Cover: The DSM-5 Checklist: The 9 diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder. The Serotonin Myth: Why modern psychiatric research is moving away from looking at single chemical levels. The Inflammation Connection: Active clinical trials utilizing anti-inflammatory pathways to treat mental health. Your Audio Action Plan: How to implement behavioral activation, circadian light exposure protocols, and cognitive tools to stop internal negative loops. Special Thanks to Our Sponsor: Go to hellorebound.com/AskKatiAnything to check your insurance or get matched with a virtual trauma specialist today. Real, evidence-based trauma treatment is within reach. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, please call or text 988 (US) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741. In the UK, you can reach the Samaritans at 116 123. You do not have to fight this alone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel like you're spiraling when your heart starts racing? Kati Morton breaks down why your body is misinterpreting normal sensations as a threat and how you can break the loop. In this episode of Ask Katie Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton explores the reality of panic disorder and why it feels so physically life-threatening. We discuss the seven stages of the panic loop, the "suffocation alarm" theory developed by Donald Klein, and why typical advice like "just breathe" can sometimes make anxiety worse. You'll learn specific, science-backed grounding techniques—including the temperature shock method, vagus nerve stimulation, and the "labeling" technique—to help you navigate moments of high intensity. Episode Sponsors BiOptimizers - If you're ready to finally sleep great and feel like yourself again, head to https://bioptimizers.com/kati and use my exclusive code KATI to get 15% off any order. Reddit - Interested in finding a community that you really love and can trust? Download the Reddit app today! Rebound - Offering virtual treatment for PTSD. Rebound is not a general therapy app where trauma is just one checkbox. Their therapists are trauma specialists. Head to https://hellorebound.com/askkatianything to check your insurance or get matched with a therapist Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: Why Panic Feels Like Dying 00:36 - Defining Panic Disorder: DSM Criteria 04:59 - The Difference Between Panic & Anxiety Attacks 08:05 - Is Your Heart Fluttering Normal? 14:21 - The 7 Stages of the Panic Loop 19:16 - Why Fighting Panic Often Backfires 25:23 - The "Suffocation Alarm" Research 34:12 - Homework: Labeling Your Sensations 38:29 - Grounding Tools: Cold Water & Vagus Nerve 42:17 - Community Success Stories & Tips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton is joined by globally recognized keynote speaker and wellness expert Alison Canavan. Alison is the creator of the Energy Bank Method, a framework built on the foundational belief that human energy—not time—is our absolute most valuable currency. In this raw and insightful conversation, Alison shares her transformative journey through the high-pressure international modeling industry as a teenager, navigating addiction, recovering from severe burnout, and addressing systemic mental health challenges. Together, Kati and Alison pull back the curtain on generational family gaslighting and look closely at why so many of us grow up treating constant anxiety and hypervigilance as a badge of love. They unpack the toxic trap of learned compliance, look at the overlapping clinical symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), and explain why passive family systems leave adults entirely blind to the process of proper conflict repair. Tune in to discover how to stop playing an active role in your own ongoing suffering, how to shift from default nervous system reactivity into a state of presence, and how to rewrite your emotional blueprint using non-judgmental awareness. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything • Rebound - virtual treatment for PTSD. Please visit https://hellorebound.com/askkatianything • Reddit - Download the Reddit app today! More Alison Caravan! https://alisoncanavan.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you constantly over-do, over-give, and over-perform to "earn your keep" in your relationships? On this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton transitions to an all-new, single-topic format to take a deep, evidence-based dive into the world of over-functioning. Through real community stories and personal reflections, Kati maps out the 6-stage cycle that leads from automatic over-giving straight into quiet resentment, eventual blowups, and toxic guilt. But this isn't just an emotional burden. Kati shares fascinating, decades-spanning clinical research—including the concept of "unmitigated communion," a 7-year study following 1,340 couples, and a chilling 2022 medical study linking "self-silencing" directly to physical cardiovascular risks like carotid plaque. If your body is carrying what your mouth refuses to say, it is time to break the loop. Tune in to get a clear, 4-step actionable framework to practice "deliberate under-functioning," express specific needs, and tolerate the discomfort of choosing growth over chronic exhaustion. Chapters: 00:00 - A New Format for Ask Kati Anything 02:00 - What is Over-Functioning? Community Stories 04:00 - Fawning, People-Pleasing, and the Need to Feel Safe 07:40 - Earning Love: Kati's Personal Story with Perfectionism 11:50 - The 6 Rungs of the Over-Functioning Cycle 22:02 - Episode sponsor message: BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough - go to https://bioptimizers.com/kati and use code KATI for 15% off your entire order Plus a Free bottle of Masszymes 23:34 - Unmitigated Communion: When the Self Disappears 30:23 - The Relationship Trap: 7-Year Study of 1,340 Couples 35:36 - The Cardiovascular Cost of Self-Silencing 38:27 - Step 1: Identify Your Current Rung 40:34 - Step 2: Deliberate Under-Functioning 45:30 - Step 3: Make a Single, Specific Ask 49:15 - Step 4: Tolerate the Discomfort (Data vs. Danger) 52:43 - Next Week's Preview: Understanding Health Insurance Share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it, leave your questions for next week's topic in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe! Books Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, You're My Favorite surged to #2 in a category (again) on Amazon. Four years after publication! Ginny was featured on We're All Insane (86K+ views on YouTube and climbing), sat down with Kati Morton, and joined Amy Edwards for a conversation about navigating online criticism. And in between all of it? A DM calling her a horrible person and a comment calling her "stuped" (yes, spelled exactly like that).In this episode, Ginny pulls back the curtain on what a big week actually looks like behind the scenes. This includes the wins, the weird DMs, and the real-time application of her UNSUBSCRIBE™ filter to stay grounded when the volume gets loud.If you've ever been afraid to put yourself out there, struggled with online criticism, or wondered how creators handle the noise, this one's for you.In this episode:Why You're My Favorite is having a second life four years laterThe Apple Podcasts review that stopped Ginny in her tracksHow to handle hate DMs without losing yourselfApplying UNSUBSCRIBE™: BLOCK, MUTE, SWAP, MANAGE—to online criticismThe one rule Ginny uses to limit how much negativity she absorbs per dayMentioned in this episode:We're All Insane podcast: LINKKati Morton's podcast: LINKAmy Edwards' podcast: LINKYou're My Favorite on Amazon: LINKConnect with Ginny:Instagram: @ginnypriemSubstack: ginnypriem.substack.comYouTube: LINKSupport our sponsor:ine+ nutrition: Save 15% with code GIN15Keywords:handling online hate, dealing with negative comments creators, public figure mental health, how to respond to trolls, online criticism, being in the public eye, creator burnout, Ginny Priem, UNSUBSCRIBE, You're My Favorite book, Katie Morton podcast, We're All Insane podcast, Amy Edwards

What do you do when your relationship is hard but you can't tell if it's worth saving, or when your trauma history makes your instincts feel unreliable? This week on Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton, LMFT, answers seven listener questions about the moments when everything feels overwhelming and you can't tell what's the relationship, what's the depression, and what's the trauma talking. Topics in this episode include: when to stay in a relationship versus when to leave, BPD and people pleasing, complex PTSD and attachment wounds, fear of abandonment, codependency, starting therapy when you have bulimia, non-suicidal self-injury, and dissociation, grounding techniques for flashbacks, what healthy love actually looks like, why depression breakthrough symptoms make you feel empty after good experiences, shame spirals and how vulnerability snuffs shame out (Brené Brown's research), rumination, behavioral activation, recovering motivation after emotional burnout, finding yourself again after trauma, inner child work and writing letters to your younger self, and how to respond to unsolicited advice without building resentment. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:56 When to stay vs leave a relationship, attachment, BPD, complex PTSD 12:00 Starting therapy with bulimia, BPD, self-harm, and dissociation 19:00 What healthy love really looks like 25:11 Feeling empty after going out, depression breakthrough symptoms 28:39 Shame spirals, rumination, and Brené Brown on vulnerability 34:25 Lack of motivation after burnout, becoming yourself after trauma 40:56 Inner child work, writing letters to your younger self 45:21 Unsolicited advice and how to respond Submit your question: https://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton/community Follow Kati on Instagram: @katimorton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton welcomes keynote speaker and bestselling author Ginny Priem to discuss the heavy toll of over-functioning and the path to reclaiming your identity. Ginny shares her powerful Unsubscribe Framework, a tool designed to help you filter out the noise and set firm boundaries in both your professional and personal life. From uncovering a partner's shocking double life to navigating the complexities of narcissistic family dynamics, Kati and Ginny explore how to heal from betrayal and the necessity of choosing peace over toxic loyalty.  Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything • ZocDoc - visit Zocdoc | Find a Doctor Near You | Book Doctors Online to find and instantly book a doctor you love today! https://www.zocdoc.com/KATI • Ka'Chava - Go to Ka'Chava: https://kachava.com/ and use code KATI for 15% off your first order • Reddit - Download the Reddit app today! Topics covered: The Unsubscribe Pillars: Learn how to use Block, Manage, Swap, and Mute to protect your time and energy. Healing from Betrayal: Ginny opens up about discovering her partner's systemic deception and how it became the catalyst for her life's work. Identifying Narcissistic Abuse: Understanding DARVO (Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender) and recognizing the signs of gaslighting. The Reality of No-Contact: A candid look at the difficult decision to go no-contact with a narcissistic parent. Living with Grief: Shifting the perspective from "moving through" grief to learning how to grow your life around it. Rebuilding Self-Trust: Why spending time with yourself (not just by yourself) is the key to fixing a "broken picker".   Ginny Priem: Book: Unsubscribe: Why Letting Go is the Secret to Getting Ahead Podcast: Unsubscribe with Ginny Priem Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton addresses why the healing process often feels more overwhelming after a breakthrough or a new diagnosis. We dive deep into the complexities of adult autism, the physical "freeze" response caused by trauma shame, and the frustration of feeling like your mental health journey has stalled. Kati also shares her perspective on the evolving role of GLP-1 medications in treating "food noise" and why reaching out for help when you're "doing okay" is actually the best time for deep therapeutic work. Whether you're navigating a difficult legal trigger like a parole hearing or searching for meaning in the face of depression, this episode provides grounded, empathetic tools to help you move forward. Shopping today's sponsor helps support Ask Kati Anything. ZocDoc - ⁠visit https://www.zocdoc.com/KATI⁠ to find and instantly book a doctor you love today! Key Topics Covered Autism & "Standard" Therapy: Why therapy can feel like a performance after an adult diagnosis and how to adapt your sessions. 
 The Silence of Shame: How to handle the dissociation and urge to "no-show" after disclosing childhood sexual abuse. 
 Coping Skill "Hard Stops": Recognizing when weed or restrictive eating shifts from a survival tool to a barrier in your recovery. 
 Social Cues & Connection: Practical advice for "reality testing" interactions and distinguishing between friendly and flirty behavior. 
 Maintenance vs. Crisis: Why you don't need to be "doing poorly" to benefit from therapy—and why maintenance work is more effective. 
 The Search for Meaning: Navigating depression when traditional treatments like CBT or DBT feel out of reach or ineffective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She caught herself mid-sentence and realized it wasn't her voice. It was her mother's. This episode is about the patterns you inherited without knowing it, the ones running your parenting, your relationships, and the way you talk to yourself right now.Kati sits down with JoAnn Crohn, parenting educator and founder of No Guilt Mom, for a conversation that starts with mom guilt and lands somewhere much deeper. JoAnn shares how she white-knuckled through breastfeeding because she believed that's what a good mom does, and the single sentence from a therapist that broke the pattern. Kati talks about spending a month with her own mother and watching in real time as her self-talk mirrored thoughts her mom carried decades earlier. Together they trace how the martyrhood pattern gets passed down, why so many women lose themselves in motherhood without noticing, and what it actually takes to come back.They also cover why families that never fought produce adults who think conflict means the relationship is over, what happens when your kid leaves for college and you realize your identity went with them, the journaling practice that rewired JoAnn's thought spirals, why naming your inner critic actually helps you stop believing it, and how JoAnn found herself again through improv comedy at 44. This is the conversation for anyone who has ever heard themselves say something and thought: that wasn't me. That was my mom. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: For a limited time our listeners are getting 20% off their entire order by using code KATI at https://cheershealth.com/ Visit http://Care.com and use code KATI for 20% off your initial subscription or a Senior Care Advisor plan Go to https://www.zocdoc.com/KATI to find and instantly book a doctor you love today Ask Kati Anything ep. 311 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT with guest: JoAnn Crone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggling with treatment-resistant depression or trying to recover from narcissistic parents and a lost sense of identity? In this episode, Katie Morton, LMFT, explores advanced mental health treatments and provides a roadmap for healing from complicated family dynamics. Whether you are dealing with "sticky memories," navigating a schizoaffective disorder diagnosis, or looking for ways to manage the physical toll of trauma on your gut, this deep dive offers practical tools to help you reclaim your life. We also discuss the power of boundaries and the vital role sleep plays in regulating anxiety. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: • Magnesium promotes relaxation and more restful sleep - visit https://bioptimizers.com/kati for 15% off any order • Care.com: Get 20% off a subscription or a senior care advisor plan at https://www.care.com/ using code KATI Chapters 00:00:49 – Q1: Creating Perspective in Severe Depression A viewer struggling with autism and treatment-resistant depression asks how to find small moments to live for when every task feels like "climbing Mount Everest." 00:14:17 – Q2: Recovering Identity from Narcissistic Parents A child of divorce seeks advice on building a sense of self after growing up with a narcissistic mother and an emotionally unavailable father. 00:20:50 – Q2 Follow-up: Healing the "Parental Wound" Addressing a comment on parental isolation, Katie discusses inner child work and letting go of the idealized version of a parent. 00:26:12 – Q3: Understanding "Sticky Memories" A viewer asks if they are "mixing memories" regarding childhood abuse or if their brain is signaling something real that needs processing. 00:29:24 – Q4: What is Projective Identification? How to stop taking on other people's intense emotions and use "inward boundaries" to protect your own mental space. 00:35:24 – Q5: Navigating a Schizoaffective Diagnosis Katie breaks down the DSM criteria for schizoaffective disorder, explaining the intersection of mood disorders and psychosis. 00:40:38 – Q6: The Connection Between Trauma and the Gut An exploration of the "gut-brain axis" and how chronic stress and high cortisol can lead to physical abdominal issues. 00:45:11 – Q7: Why Sleep is Essential for Anxiety Relief A discussion on how sleep "cleans" the brain and provides the emotional regulation needed to weather life's storms. SchizoKitzo (tiktoker mentioned in episode) https://www.tiktok.com/@schizokitzo?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Ask Kati Anything ep. 310 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Books Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. #podcast #psychology #katimorton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt ashamed in therapy because your behaviors aren't changing fast enough? In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton answers 8 listener questions on eating disorders, therapy, intimacy, ego death, depression, and mental health recovery. Topics covered include eating disorder recovery, higher levels of care (IOP and PHP), what therapists notice about body language and appearance, caregiver burnout, intimacy struggles after trauma, ego death and psychedelics, DASS questionnaires, and returning depression after remission. This Week's Sponsors: Care.com — 20% off a subscription or Senior Care Advisor plan using code KATI at https://www.care.com/ Hero Bread — 10% off your order using code KATI at https://www.hero.co/ MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? Traumatized Are u ok? ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: ⁠https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trying to control every outcome in life can feel like the safest strategy, but it often leads to more stress, anxiety, and frustration. In this episode, Penny Zenker sits down with Kati Morton, bestselling author and mental health expert, to explore the control trap—the tendency to overmanage our emotions, circumstances, and even other people in an attempt to feel secure. Kati explains why our brains crave control during uncertainty, why anger often masks deeper emotions like hurt or fear, and how tools like the feelings wheel can help us better identify what we're actually experiencing. She also shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, managing workplace emotions, and reducing anxiety in a world full of digital distractions—revealing why letting go of unnecessary control can actually create more clarity, resilience, and focus.

Why is "kindness" often dismissed as a soft skill when it's actually a life-saving tool for resilience? In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton is joined by Andra Liemandt, the founder and CEO of The Kindness Campaign. Andra shares the powerful, heartbreaking story of how a tragic loss in her community became the catalyst for a national movement that reached over 250,000 students last year alone. We explore the science of emotional literacy, the transformative power of "Mirror Work," and practical strategies for parents to help their children feel seen, heard, and understood. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: • Hungryroot - Get 40% off your first box plus a free item in every box for life at ⁠https://www.hungryroot.com/kati with code KATI • Care.com - Get 20% off a subscription or a senior care advisor plan at https://www.care.com/ using code KATI TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Intro: Advancing emotional literacy with Andra Liemandt. 02:59 – The tragedy that started The Kindness Campaign. 06:17 – Enoughie Buddy: Helping kids find their words. 14:44 – "See to the other side": Finding light in dark times. 18:11 – Morning Pages vs. Venting: Clearing the brain. 24:18 – How the Magic Mirror builds self-worth. 31:23 – The power of "Mirror Work" and receiving kindness. 38:14 – Secure attachment: The trapeze net of parenting. 45:00 – Kind Leadership: Preparing high schoolers for the real world. 57:11 – The Science of Kindness: From soft skill to survival. 01:02:42 – Superpowers: Identifying your communication style. 01:08:18 – Self-care toolkits: Gratitude, Grounding, and Green. 01:21:19 – "Playing it out": A CBT tool for big decisions If you're enjoying these conversations, please take a moment to Follow the show. It's the easiest way to make sure you never miss an episode. If this episode on kindness and self-worth resonated with you, leaving a review would mean the world to us. Your ratings help more people discover these tools and join our community. MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY? Enjoy 10% off your first month: While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co DISCLAIMER The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Ask Kati Anything ep. 305 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many moms tell me some version of this: “I know I need to let go of control… but I can't.” And here's what I want you to hear right away — that doesn't make you controlling. It makes you someone who cares deeply. You're not trying to micromanage everyone's lives. You're trying to prevent disappointment. You're trying to keep the peace. You're trying to make sure nothing falls through the cracks. Because when you're the one who sees all the moving pieces, it feels irresponsible not to step in. In this powerful conversation, I sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton to unpack what control is really about. And what we uncover might surprise you. Control isn't a personality flaw. It's often a safety strategy. Kati helps us understand why control can feel like agency — like the only way to avoid helplessness. We also dive into how people-pleasing quietly becomes control in disguise, and what it actually takes to stop carrying the emotional weight of everyone else's feelings. If you've ever thought, “If I don't handle it, no one will,” this episode is for you. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why letting go of control feels unsafe (even when you logically want to) How people-pleasing turns into subtle control in relationships The connection between anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional weight Why control can feel like the only way to avoid conflict or disappointment The deeper relationship patterns that keep you stuck What healthy boundaries actually look like in real life Why This Conversation Matters When you're constantly managing everyone's moods, schedules, and reactions, you don't just feel tired — you feel responsible for everything. That emotional load is heavy. And the harder you try to keep everything steady, the more pressure builds inside you. This episode helps you see that your need for control isn't random or irrational. It developed for a reason. Understanding that reason is what creates space for change. Because once you realize what control is protecting, you can start building something stronger than control: emotional safety, boundaries, and real partnership. Resources Mentioned Why Do I Keep Doing This by Kati Morton Follow Kati at her YouTube channel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why do we cling to the behaviors that hurt us most? In this episode, Kati Morton, LMFT, dives into the physiological and emotional complexities of eating disorder recovery, trauma responses, and the "why" behind our most difficult survival mechanisms. We explore the "safety" found in cycles like bulimia or anorexia when living in neglectful environments, and Kati provides actionable tools for those navigating C-PTSD, DID, and intimacy after divorce. The "Freeze" Response: Understanding "bed-locking" and C-PTSD. Complicated Grief: Why you might feel numb when an abuser passes away. The Feelings Wheel: Practical tools for naming emotions when you feel disconnected. Dissociation & DID: Managing treatment while living in an unsafe home. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code KATI oneskin.co/KATI Zocdoc: find and book top-rated doctors, therapists, or mental health providers near you in minutes zocdoc.com/kati Remi: protect your teeth from grinding with a custom-fit night guard. Go to shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 50% off Hers: visit forhers.com/kati to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you 00:00 – Intro: Mind-body responses 00:43 – ED cycles in abusive homes & Mandated Reporting 07:02 – Grieving an abuser: Understanding emotional numbness 12:41 – Why we "enjoy" or miss our eating disorders 25:01 – Tools for naming emotions (The Feelings Wheel) 32:27 – Navigating DID treatment in unsafe environments 39:09 – Is "bed-locking" a normal C-PTSD response? 47:09 – Shame and intimacy after divorce 53:03 – When your therapist challenges your recovery YouTube: youtube.com/@Katimorton Books: Why Do I Keep Doing This?, Traumatized, and Are u ok? Online Therapy: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/kati Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for diagnosis and treatment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why do we keep doing the things we know aren't good for our finances? Whether it's emotional spending, avoiding a growing credit card balance, over-controlling every dollar, or saying “yes” to spending when we really mean “no”. So many of our money habits aren't about math; they're about emotion. This week, Jean Chatzky sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist and mental health educator Kati Morton, author of the new book Why Do I Keep Doing This?, to unpack the psychology behind the patterns that keep us stuck, especially when it comes to money. In this episode, we explore: The difference between healthy control and control that quietly sabotages us Why emotional spending happens — and how it differs from compulsive spending How financial insecurity in childhood can shape our careers, relationships, and money mindset Why the world feeling “out of control” can trigger impulsive financial decisions How women nearing retirement can navigate financial anxiety during major life transitions Practical tools to help break the cycle And if you're ready to take control of your financial future in an intentional way, join us in InvestingFixx, our investing community designed to help you build confidence, clarity, and long-term wealth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Alma. Visit https://helloalma.com/dg/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=privatepractice to learn more Get the Couples Therapy 101 course: https://www.couplestherapistcouch.com/ Join the Couples Therapist Inner Circle: https://www.couplestherapistcouch.com/inner-circle-new Join The Couples Therapist Couch Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/295562197518469/ In this episode, Shane talks with Kati Morton about Why Do I Keep Doing This?: Unlearn the Habits Keeping You Stuck and Unhappy. Kati is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Media Personality, and Author. Hear why our inner dialogue isn't always correct, how to help your clients get unstuck, the importance of working on yourself, why it's okay to have healthy differences, and the difference between love & codependence. To learn more about Kati Morton, her latest book Why Do I Keep Doing This?, and her podcast Ask Kati Anything, visit: KatiMorton.com @KatiMorton on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram  

Sometimes a great idea doesn't come from thinking harder — but from shifting your body. Research suggests that posture can influence how creatively and flexibly you think, meaning the position you're in during a brainstorming session could actually affect whether you have that “Eureka!” moment. Listen to how that works as we open this episode. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27992759 It feels like everyone has allergies these days. But do they really? And what exactly qualifies as an allergy in the first place? Dr. Zachary Rubin, a double board-certified pediatrician and allergist/immunologist in the Chicago area and author of All About Allergies: Everything You Need to Know About Asthma, Food Allergies, Hay Fever, and More (https://amzn.to/401KdW5) explains why allergies appear to be on the rise, why many people think they have allergies but don't, and what's really happening inside your immune system when a true allergic reaction occurs. Have you ever agreed to something you didn't want to do, apologized when it wasn't your fault, or stayed silent when you knew you should speak up? These patterns can feel automatic — almost out of your control. Kati Morton, licensed marriage and family therapist and author of Why Do I Keep Doing This?: Unlearn the Habits Keeping You Stuck and Unhappy (https://amzn.to/3ZDmcV3) explains why these self-sabotaging behaviors form, why they repeat, and how to finally interrupt them. One of the main reasons people exercise is to lose weight. It seems logical: burn more calories, lose more fat. But the science tells a more complicated story. Exercise is incredibly important for health — but when it comes to shedding pounds, its impact may be far smaller than most people believe. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3925973/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS QUINCE: Refresh your wardrobe with Quince! Go to ⁠⁠⁠https://Quince.dom/sysk ⁠⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! HIMS: For simple, online access to personalized and affordable care for Hair Loss, ED, Weight Loss, and more, visit ⁠⁠⁠https://Hims.com/SOMETHING⁠⁠⁠ for your free online visit!  SHOPIFY: Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Shopify.com/sysk⁠⁠⁠⁠ DELL: Dell Tech Days are here. Enjoy huge deals on PCs like the Dell 14 Plus with Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://Dell.com/deals⁠⁠⁠ PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#thePOZcast is proudly brought to you by Fountain - the leading enterprise platform for workforce management. Our platform enables companies to support their frontline workers from job application to departure. Fountain elevates the hiring, management, and retention of frontline workers at scale. To learn more, please visit: https://www.fountain.com/?utm_source=shrm-2024&utm_medium=event&utm_campaign=shrm-2024-podcast-adam-posner. Thanks for listening, and please follow us on Insta @NHPTalent and www.youtube.com/thePOZcast For all episodes, please check out www.thePOZcast.com  Takeaways "We don't take the time to think about if we like our therapist." "Words have power; we speak them into existence." "You should feel like you like them; it's pretty comfortable." "We often give our partners the least energy, love, and support." "You have to consider whether you'd go to them for advice; if not, don't take their feedback." "Control gives us a sense of safety, but we can only control ourselves." "Healing is not a straight line; it's two steps forward, one step back." "Be curious, not judgmental, about your process." "Relationships are everything to me; if I'm not supporting them, something's wrong." "You have to unlearn the patterns that are no longer serving you."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kati Morton 01:07 The Importance of Mental Health 06:59 Navigating Therapy: Finding the Right Fit 10:06 The Power of Language in Mental Health 16:39 Understanding Eldest Daughter Syndrome 20:39 Patterns in Love and Attraction 28:39 Recognizing Love Bombing and Red Flags 32:38 Control, Anxiety, and Burnout 38:05 The Journey of Healing and Self-Trust 39:48 Kati's New Book: Why Do I Keep Doing This? 46:00 Kati's North Star: The Importance of Connection      

Eating disorder shapeshifting explained, therapy dissociation tips, no contact with adult child response, self-acceptance after weight gain, feeling unseen or outcast, skin picking dermatillomania, broken UK NHS mental health system, social anxiety in sessions, neurodivergent experiences, body image struggles, anxiety after injury, DSM vs ICD-11 differences, parasocial relationships advice. Licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton answers your real questions in this Ask Kati Anything episode—get expert insights on coping, recovery, and feeling seen. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: • Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to https://www.hero.co/ and use code KATI at checkout • Hers - visit https://www.forhers.com/kati for personalized, affordable weight loss plans with licensed medical support • Zocdoc - find and book top-rated doctors, therapists, or mental health providers near you in minutes. Go to https://www.zocdoc.com/kati Audience questions: 0:47 - Q1: Mind goes blank when therapist asks 'what do you need?' (social anxiety, dissociation) 6:16 - Q2: Why eating disorders shapeshift from restricting to bingeing (neurodivergent impact) 15:17 - Add-on: Self-acceptance vs weight loss first mindset in ED recovery (body image fears) 21:03 - Q3: Anxiety, depression after injury and loss of independence (positive mindset tips) 29:05 - Q4: Key differences between DSM and ICD-11 for diagnosing mental illnesses 34:05 - Q5: Feeling like an outcast or invisible - how to build inclusion and connections 43:20 - Q6: Dermatillomania (skin picking) - causes, tips, and tricks to stop 47:35 - Q7: Navigating broken mental health systems and feeling unhelpable 54:21 - Q8: Best response when an adult child goes no contact (with compassion and respect) 1:01:04 - Q9: Navigating parasocial relationships with content creators and celebrities MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY? Enjoy 10% off your first month: While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co DISCLAIMER The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Ask Kati Anything ep. 303 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you are struggling with depression, addiction, or seeking motivation, Justin's story is a roadmap for anyone feeling lost in the dark. "I was the youngest heavyweight in the country, and I was losing the only fight that mattered." In this powerful episode Kati speaks with Justin Wren for a raw conversation on mental health, resilience, and the recovery journey. Justin pulls back the curtain on a life of extreme highs and devastating lows, from the "merciless" bullying he faced as a child in Texas to the secret OxyContin addiction that haunted his professional MMA career. We dive deep into the "living nightmare" of substance abuse, where Justin managed a massive intake of pills while fighting on the world's biggest stage. He shares the heartbreaking moment he hit rock bottom after missing his best friend's wedding and the moment in Tulum that gave him a second chance at life. Justin also discusses his work with Fight for the Forgotten, his nonprofit dedicated to providing clean water and land rights to the Mbuti Pygmy people in Uganda and Eastern Congo. He shares the beautiful, life-altering lessons he learned about community, grief, and Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) that helped him find true healing. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offer: • Function Health - visit www.functionhealth.com/KATI and use gift code KATI25 for a $25 credit toward your membership • Warby Parker - our listeners get 15% + Free Shipping when they buy 2 or more pairs of prescription glasses at https://www.warbyparker.com/KATI • Care.com - for a limited time, go to https://www.care.com and use code KATI for 20% off your initial subscription or a Senior Care Advisor Plan • Remi - protect your teeth with Remi by using code KATI to get 50% off your new night guard at https://shopremi.com/KATI In this episode: 00:00 – Meet guest Justin Wren 01:41 – The "merciless" bullying Justin faced in grade school 08:34 – Moving schools and finding mentorship through Olympic wrestling coaches 13:54 – Discovering the UFC 18:18 – Learning to "swim in the deep end" by wrestling 200 matches a year 18:49 – Finding purpose by speaking in over 100 correctional facilities 26:54 – The freak injury that led to a massive opioid addiction 33:07 – Rock bottom: "I can't believe you missed my wedding." 34:10 – The attempt to end it all in Tulum and the miracle survival 44:48 – Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) with Dr. Daniel Amen 49:32 – The cycle of "dry drunk" vs. real recovery 53:51 – Fight for the Forgotten: Deep work on land rights and sustainable water 01:04:13 – Explaining depression to a culture that has no word for "suicide." 01:17:08 – The Statue of Responsibility and giving a "hand up," not a "handout." JUSTIN WREN https://www.fightfortheforgotten.org/ Ask Kati Anything ep. 302 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Narcissism has become one of the most misused words in mental health — and social media hasn't helped. In this episode, host Gabe Howard is joined by licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton to separate clinical reality from internet myth. Together, they break down what narcissistic personality disorder actually is, why confidence and disagreement don't equal narcissism, and how terms like “gaslighting” and “love bombing” get distorted online.We answer common questions like: Can people with narcissistic personality disorder learn empathy? How can loved ones' support change without sacrificing their safety or boundaries? If narcissism is a mental illness, why do we have trouble feeling compassion for people who have it? Finally, Gabe and Kati discuss whether people with narcissistic personality disorder can change, what meaningful treatment actually looks like, and how loved ones can protect themselves while setting healthy boundaries. “If social media were accurate, narcissism would describe anyone who annoys us. But clinically? It's something very different.” ~Kati Morton, author of “Why Do I Keep Doing This? Unlearn the Habits That Keep You Stuck and Unhappy” Our guest, Kati Morton, is widely recognized as a leading mental health advocate and educator. She holds a masters in clinical psychology and is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She has a passion for education and empowerment and shares helpful insights through her YouTube channel. Kati is the author of three books “Are You Ok?,” “Traumatized,” and “Why Do I Keep Doing This? Unlearn the Habits Keeping You Stuck and Unhappy.” She hopes that by speaking candidly about mental health and encouraging viewers to reach out to get the support they need, we can remove the stigma associated with getting help. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Sharing the show with the people you know is how we're gonna grow! Thank you in advance. :-) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton addresses eight deeply personal mental health questions from the community. From navigating chronic suicidal ideation to coping with hearing voices while trying to study, Kati provides clinical insight with compassion and practical guidance. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offer: • Get 15% off OneSkin with the code KATI at https://www.oneskin.co/KATI • Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to https://www.hero.co/ and use code KATI at checkout. • Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://www.zocdoc.com/KATI to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. TOPICS COVERED 0:00 - Introduction 1:19 - Living with chronic suicidal ideation and finding hope when treatments haven't worked 7:04 - Distinguishing between personality and mental health symptoms (especially when medication changes) 18:30 - Grieving a version of yourself you never got to know 27:15 - Eating disorder relapse and navigating inadequate care systems 35:42 - What to say when therapy isn't the right fit 42:08 - How clinicians approach weight changes and honesty in eating disorder treatment 47:51 - Shame, self-doubt, and dissociative identity disorder (DID) 52:36 - Coping with hearing voices while studying in college RESOURCES MENTIONED • VNS (Vagus Nerve Stimulation) • Ketamine treatment • ECT (Electroconvulsive therapy) • EMDR therapy • DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) CRISIS RESOURCES • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 • International resources: http://findahelpline.com CONNECT Subscribe for weekly mental health Q&As and don't forget to leave a review to help others find this podcast. Ask Kati Anything ep. 301 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a particular kind of frustration that comes from knowing yourself well enough to recognize a pattern, and still feeling unable to stop it. You understand what you are doing. You may even understand why. And yet the behavior keeps showing up anyway. In this conversation, I'm sitting down with licensed marriage and family therapist and mental health educator Kati Morton to talk about why habits that no longer serve us can be so hard to change. Not because we lack insight or discipline, but because many of these patterns began as emotional coping habits. At one point, they helped us feel safer, more connected, or more in control. Over time, they quietly turned into ways we stay stuck. We explore how early relationship experiences shape perfectionism and control patterns, why self-sabotaging behaviors make sense once you understand the nervous system's role in survival, and how shame keeps habits locked in place rather than motivating change. Kati shares why willpower is rarely the solution, and what compassionate habit change actually looks like when you stop trying to override yourself and start listening instead. We also talk about what happens when these patterns show up inside relationships, how to raise concerns without controlling or shaming your partner, and why understanding the function of a habit matters far more than trying to eliminate it. This episode is about breaking habits that keep you stuck by learning how to meet the underlying need in a healthier, more sustainable way. As you listen, I invite you to reflect on this question: What has this behavior been doing for me, and what might become possible if I approached myself with more curiosity and less judgment? Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why willpower is not enough to change habits 03:49 How early relationship blueprints shape behavior 08:51 Perfectionism, people pleasing, and self-abandonment 12:25 Conditional love and control patterns 18:06 Nervous system regulation and survival responses 24:04 Emotional coping habits outside of relationships 31:03 Why shame reinforces habits 37:54 Addressing the root instead of cutting off symptoms 44:27 Supporting change in relationships without control 50:53 More from Kati Morton If this episode brought clarity to patterns you have been struggling with, and you would like support as you work toward change that actually lasts, I want to extend a personal invitation. You can schedule a free consultation with me or a member of my team. This is a private, secure space where you will answer three quick questions so we can help match you with the right counselor or coach for what you are navigating right now. Think of it as a thoughtful starting place, not a commitment. Just support, perspective, and help finding the right next step. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self Special thanks to this month's sponsors of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast: Shopify — The all-in-one platform for building and growing your online business. Visit shopify.com/lhs  to explore their tools and access exclusive listener discounts. Working Genius — A powerful assessment that helps entrepreneurs and leaders focus on what they naturally do best. Get 20% off with code LHS at workinggenius.com

What if your best days haven't even happened yet? In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, I'm joined by the incredible Amy Edwards—CEO, author, and host of The Amy Edwards Show. At 53, Amy is the happiest she's ever been, but getting here required walking through some of life's darkest valleys. We dive deep into the messy, complicated, and ultimately beautiful process of transformation. Amy opens up about the stigma of being twice-divorced, the "blackout" period of losing her voice during a legal battle, and her unconventional journey through psychedelic healing and sobriety. Whether you are struggling with a "failed" relationship, feeling stuck in a cycle of rumination, or wondering if it's too late to start over, this conversation is a reminder that you don't need anything outside of yourself to access hope. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offer: Feel like your best self again, visit https://www.forhers.com/KATI to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Chapters 00:00 – Meet Amy Edwards 03:04 – Becoming the "Matriarchs" after losing parents 04:29 – Religious differences and choosing love over judgment 09:35 – The reality of divorce at 25 vs. later in life 13:57 – A perfect storm: Pregnancy, losing a mother, and a broken leg 17:46 – The "Rebound Marriage" and learning to stand up for yourself 21:14 – Why "Staying for the Kids" can be the real failure 26:42 – Modeling resilience: Showing children that women can do anything 30:12 – Mental health tools: The "Don't Drink the Drano Today" logic 36:32 – Psychedelics and Ego Death: Rewiring the brain 40:32 – Ketamine therapy and clearing the "ruminating sand" 43:10 – The road to sobriety and finding a growth-mindset partner 54:19 – The "Table" Metaphor: Breaking the cycle of transactional love 01:03:16 – Losing your voice: When the body forces you to slow down 01:07:37 – Radical Self-Love: doing mirror work 01:15:45 – Your best days haven't happened yet MORE AMY https://www.youtube.com/@TheAmyEdwardsShow The Trouble with Becoming a Witch: A Novel by Amy Edwards https://amzn.to/4ahkoFU https://www.instagram.com/realamyedwards/ MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co DISCLAIMER The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Ask Kati Anything ep. 300 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton, LMFT, dives into the complex intersection of social media and mental health. We explore how to protect yourself from "rage-bait" and identity-driven outrage while still using platforms productively. Kati also breaks down the vital differences between flashbacks and hallucinations, the ethics of acting out trauma in therapy, and how to navigate anxious-avoidant attachment dynamics with your own therapist. Plus, a deep dive into recovery tools and Kati's personal strategy for overcoming a "funk" using a unique gratitude practice. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: • Hungryroot - Go to https://www.hungryroot.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. • Hero Bread - Get 10% off your order at https://www.hero.co and use code KATI at checkout Chapters: 00:00 Protecting Your Mental Health Online 01:30 How to Curate Your Feed & Avoid "Rage-Bait" 03:55 Awareness, Resilience, and Critical Thinking Skills 08:48 Identifying "Emotion Mind" vs. "Wise Mind" 10:33 Acting Out Trauma in Therapy: Safety & Perspective 14:40 Flashbacks vs. Hallucinations: What's Actually Happening? 18:19 Can Trauma Cause Psychosis? 20:11 Spirituality vs. Religion in Healing 24:55 The Truth About Forgiveness & Resentment 30:19 Addressing Shame & Responsibility in Abuse 36:04 Navigating Anxious-Avoidant Attachment in Therapy 41:21 Meal Replacement Drinks in ED Recovery 44:13 Kati's Personal Practice for Pulling Out of Depression MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist. Enjoy 10% off your first month: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, Kati is joined by Jen Birn, editor of Austin Lifestyle magazine. Jen has built a life on her own terms, parlaying her high-octane success in the celebrity journalism scenes of New York and Los Angeles into a career that is currently transforming the landscape of Austin. Jen's path was built on pure grit and "fake it 'til you make it" scrappiness. From waitressing in a music bar where she convinced the Gin Blossoms to give her an interview that launched her career, to navigating family crisis, Jen has faced the kind of relatable struggles that define a survivalist spirit. Along the way she shares stories from a career spent crossing paths with figures like Richard Branson, Johnny Depp & David Arquette, transitioning from the 24/7 hustle to finding balance, biohacking for longevity, and reclaiming your time. Jen Birn is an inspiration who proves that success isn't about having a perfect start—it's about the resilience to keep chasing the sunset until you find home. Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything. Please check out this week's special offers: • Remy - Go to www.shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 50% off your Custom Night Guards • Function Health - Get a $25 credit toward your membership at www.functionhealth.com/kati with gift code KATI25 MORE JEN Chasing Sunsets Down I-80 https://amzn.to/3LHpVgU https://citylifestyle.com/austin/issues MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Ask Kati Anything ep. 298 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Just a Mom podcast, licensed marriage and family therapist and mental health expert Kati Morton discusses the complexities of parenting in the digital age. We explore the impact of social media on both children and parents, the importance of community support, and strategies for fostering emotional regulation in kids. Kati emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health, including suicidal ideation, and the challenges of supporting adult children. The discussion highlights the illusion of control in parenting and the necessity of creating tech-free spaces for genuine connection. You can find Kati's latest book, Why Do I Keep Doing This?, as well as a myriad of videos and resources at https://katimorton.com/.

Today, we are diving deep into the complexities of trauma, connection, and the healing journey. If you've ever felt like your therapy progress is backsliding or that you're becoming more overwhelmed as you open old wounds, this episode is for you. Shopping with our sponsors allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: • Hungryroot - Get 40% off your first box at https://www.hungryroot.com/kati • Hers - Start your personalized journey at https://www.forhers.com/kati 00:45 – The Therapy Balance: Why a therapist shouldn't work harder than the patient to maintain a healthy therapeutic space. 03:55 – Therapist Self-Disclosure: When it is ethical for a therapist to share personal information to benefit the patient. 05:30 – Why Healing Feels Worse: Understanding why trauma processing can lead to a temporary increase in symptoms. 11:01 – Building Coping Skills: How to use coping tools and impulse logs to manage the discomfort of change. 15:24 – Therapist Self-Care: Kati shares how she separates her personal and professional life to avoid burnout. 22:05 – Trauma and Disconnection: Why survivors may feel alienated and how finding relatability can break emotional numbness. 32:13 – Empathic Boundaries: How to stop absorbing other people's emotions while still offering support. 39:54 – Parents and Boundaries: What to do when parents ignore boundaries and why a boundary is about your own actions. 42:07 – Love vs. Limerence: The difference between slow-built intimacy and intense, involuntary obsession. 46:50 – Neurodivergent Marriage: Advice for couples with complex PTSD on discussing triggers and expectations before marriageWhether you are struggling with complex PTSD, navigating a new marriage while neurodivergent, or trying to set boundaries with difficult parents, we're covering it all today. MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Ask Kati Anything ep. 297 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all have that one thing we're avoiding right now. Whether it's hitting the gym, starting that side hustle, or finally getting to bed at a reasonable hour—we keep putting it off even though we know it's exactly what we need to level up our lives. And trust me, I get it, Netflix and cozy blankets are calling my name too. But here's the really exciting thing—I sat down with the absolutely brilliant Kati Morton (she's THE expert on making hard things easier, with a master's from Pepperdine University and an incredible way of breaking down complex psychology into doable steps). We dove deep into why our brains resist change so much and, more importantly, how to actually get ourselves to do those big, scary things that lead to massive transformation. If you've ever felt stuck between knowing what you should do and actually doing it, this episode is going to be a game-changer. It's packed with those practical, science-backed strategies we love, but delivered in a way that feels like chatting with your smartest friend.

Whether you are dealing with childhood trauma and shame, navigating the grief of life transitions after graduation, or learning to trust your instincts after years of self-betrayal, this episode provides practical therapeutic insights for your healing journey. Join us as we explore how to set healthy boundaries, overcome loneliness, and stop the cycle of self-abandonment to build a more authentic relationship with yourself. Kati also discusses the heavy burden of caregiver burnout, the physiological necessity of sleep for mental health, and how to support those struggling with suicidal ideation. In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton answers listener questions and takes a deep dive into the true meaning of forgiveness and how it serves as a tool for personal liberation rather than condoning hurtful behavior. Support the show! Check out our sponsors and exclusive deals: Hero Bread - get 10% off your order when you visit http://hero.co and use promo code KATI at checkout.• OneSkin - skin health products powered by the OS-01 peptide - get up to 30% off OneSkin with the code KATI at https://www.oneskin.co/KATI Timestamps 00:57 - Q1: How can I forgive people who have hurt me deeply? 04:47 - Q2: How do we keep going when we're exhausted (Caregiver burnout & sleep)? 10:04 - Q3: Suicide prevention: How to help and what society can do. 13:22 - Q4: How to open up about trauma without feeling shame. 17:34 - Q5: Dealing with regret and unemployment after quitting a job. MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY 22:30 - Q6: How to trust yourself and manage triggers. 24:06 - Q6 (Continued): Setting boundaries vs. overreacting. 31:12 - Q7: Moving on and finding routine after graduating high school. 43:06 - Q8: How to trust yourself again after years of self-betrayal. 54:07 - Q9: Navigating loneliness and outgrowing old friendships. Ask Kati Anything ep. 265 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your need for control is actually what's keeping you stuck?In this revealing episode of The Big Silence, Karena sits down with licensed therapist, YouTuber, and bestselling author Kati Morton to dive into her most personal book yet: Why Do I Keep Doing This? From toxic independence to people-pleasing as manipulation, Kati unpacks the precarious relationship we have with control—and why trying to control what we can't is the root of so much unhappiness. She opens up about her own daddy issues, hyperindependence, and the patterns that kept her dating emotionally unavailable men. Whether you're a perfectionist, a people-pleaser, or someone who can't seem to stop repeating the same mistakes, this conversation will hit home. Hard.How do you break the toxic patterns that keep you trapped, and learn to let go of what you can't control?Understanding why we repeat destructive behaviors is the first step toward real change and healthier relationships.(00:00) Control, Perfectionism & People-PleasingThe thread that runs through everything: our relationship with controlWhy control can be both good and badPeople-pleasing as a form of manipulationWhy trying to control what's outside your "locus of control" only hurts you and others(09:24) The Blueprint: Daddy Issues, Emotional Unavailability & Running AwayGrowing up believing "I can only depend on me, I will save myself."How childhood patterns shape who you're attracted to as an adultDating emotionally unavailable men (17:48) Breaking the Pattern: Therapy, Self-Discovery & Learning to StayFiguring out what your "why" isThe importance of a therapist who challenges you, not just affirms youRewiring your nervous system and learning what safety actually feels likeSetting boundaries without being controlling or manipulativeHow to tell the difference between protecting yourself and pushing people away(26:12) Self-Care That Actually Works: Journaling, Movement & Showing Up for FriendshipsWhy journaling has been life-changing for Kati's mental healthThe power of morning pages and releasing control over a "perfect timeline"Why friendships matter more than we realize(33:35) YouTube Evolution, AI Therapy & Fighting the Loneliness EpidemicWhy personal experience changes minds more than DSM criteriaThe problem with AI therapy

In this episode, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton dives deep into the complex psychology of eating disorders, the lasting "blueprint" of childhood trauma, and why certain coping mechanisms feel impossible to give up. We explore the often-misunderstood need for validation in recovery, the erratic behavior of some therapists, and why mental health struggles can feel like an addictive cycle. Whether you are navigating your own healing journey or trying to understand a loved one, this episode offers professional insight into breaking cycles of shame and finding a path toward a healthier sense of self. Support the show! Check out our sponsor Remi:  Get professional quality custom night guards for 80% less than the dentist.  Go to https://www.shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI  at checkout for 50% off Timestamps 00:00:50 – Kati discusses whether "attention-seeking" in eating disorders is actually a cry for unmet emotional needs from childhood. 00:07:02 q1 – An exploration of why childhood sexual abuse deeply impacts one's psychological foundation and sense of safety. 00:15:54 q2 – Kati explains the addictive nature of self-harm and how to discuss the fear of stopping with a therapist. 00:22:45 q3 – Insight into why a therapist might show inconsistent personalities and how to handle unprofessional boundaries. 00:31:16 q4 – Advice for a student in India facing academic pressure and unsafe living conditions while dependent on family. 00:34:53 q5 – A look at "behavioral activation" and what to do when standard depression treatments and medications haven't worked. 00:39:09 q6 – How OCD can "rob" you of your interests by demanding a level of control that makes joy impossible. 00:44:40 q7 – Why it is common to feel terrified of fully committing to recovery after years of struggling with anorexia. 00:49:09 q8 – A professional breakdown of how therapists ethically intervene when a patient self-harms or dissociates during a session. MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This?  (JUST RELEASED)  https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized   https://geni.us/Bfak0j   Are u ok?    https://geni.us/sva4iUY  PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman |  nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Ask Kati Anything ep. 295 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton explores a wide range of mental health topics, from the nuances of cognitive distortions to the complexities of healing from long-term trauma. Kati discusses why getting better can feel scary, the realities of psychiatric hospitalizations, and why certain popular therapy modalities like CBT might not be the best fit for everyone. Support the show! Check out our sponsors and exclusive deals: • Remi: Get professional quality custom night guards for 80% less than the dentist. Go to https://www.shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 50% off. • Aura Frames: Give the gift of memories with unlimited photos and videos. Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://www.on.auraframes.com/KATI. Promo Code KATI • Fabletics: Premium activewear for a fraction of the price. Sign up as a new VIP at https://www.fabletics.com/kati to get 80% off everything. Questions: Q 1: Futurizing vs. Catastrophizing Kati defines futurizing as an unrealistically negative view focused solely on the future , while catastrophizing is taking any small issue and making it a big deal in the moment. Q 2: Why Breakthroughs Can Feel Empty or Scary A discussion on why making progress in therapy for complex trauma can lead to an "identity crisis" Q 3: Navigating Higher Levels of Care & Hospitalization Kati explains the difference between voluntary vs. involuntary (5150) holds , what to actually expect inside a psychiatric ward (from "gripper socks" to shared rooms). Q 4: Healing from Therapist Attachment & Goodbyes How to handle the "heartbreak" of a therapeutic relationship ending. Q 5: Dealing with Intense Pre-Therapy Anxiety, Kati explores why some people feel terrified before sessions and offers tips like ritualizing your preparation to calm the nervous system. Q 6: Can You Heal in the Place That Made You Sick? A "tough love" look at why true healing is difficult in an active abusive environment. Q 7: Emotional Numbness and "Logic Brain" on Meds Addressing emotional numbness on psychiatric medication. Q 8: Do You Really Need a Specialist for Eating Disorders? Q 9: Why CBT Often Falls Short for Complex PTSD An explanation of why traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can feel minimizing or invalidating for trauma survivors. ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? (NEW BOOK) https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Therapist and bestselling author Kati Morton joins me to unpack why we keep repeating patterns we know aren't good for us. From people-pleasing and fawning to control and why awareness alone doesn't create change, this episode is about getting honest with yourself and learning how to actually get unstuck.Kati Morton:Book: ⁠Why Do I Keep Doing This?Instagram & TikTokPodcast: Ask Katie AnythingFollow the show:Unbothered: Instagram & TikTokChloe: Instagram⁠ & ⁠TikTok

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton sits down with Tone It Up co-founder and New York Times bestselling author Karena Dawn for a deeply personal conversation about trauma, resilience, and reclaiming one's narrative. Karena opens up to Kati about her "decade of darkness," sharing what it was like growing up with a mother living with paranoid schizophrenia and the emotional toll of a childhood marked by missing persons reports and family chaos. She reveals the pivotal moment in her 20s when she realized she wasn't "destined" to repeat her mother's path and how fitness became the catalyst for her healing.  *** Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:  • MasterClass | Get up to 50% off at https://www.masterclass.com/KATI  • Fabletics | Sign up as a VIP and get eighty percent off at https://www.fabletics.com/kati  • Aura | Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/KATI. Promo Code KATI  • Remi | Go to shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 55% off a new night guard plus a FREE foam gift that whitens your teeth and cleans your nightguard  We also dive into: Reclaiming Tone It Up: Karena discusses the "full circle" journey of buying back her company 100% to lead it with freedom and joy once again. The Big Silence Podcast: Why she started her foundation to break the stigma surrounding mental health in honor of her late mother. Building Mastery: How finishing a triathlon proved to her that she could follow through on her dreams and build a life she loved. Women's Health: A candid look at perimenopause, brain fog, and the lifestyle shifts like using creatine that help navigate new stages of life.  Connect with Karena Dawn:  https://www.youtube.com/@toneitup https://www.youtube.com/@the.big.silence My new book is in stores now! Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ  If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support.  ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati  PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co  Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Ask Kati Anything ep. 293 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've been wondering whether your "anxiety" might actually be ADHD (or both), this episode helps you sort through the overlap by focusing on the driver behind your symptoms—so you can get clarity, support, and the right tools.

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, we dive deep into the complex and often unspoken corners of mental health recovery. We explore the psychology behind why some individuals experience persistent suicidal thoughts without the intent to act and discuss strategies for navigating friendships that inadvertently trigger eating disorder relapses or competition. I also open up about the ethics of plastic surgery when dealing with body dysmorphia , the "push-pull" dynamic in therapy often associated with BPD and attachment wounds , and share my professional perspective on gender-affirming care and the importance of therapeutic support. Finally, we analyze a shocking listener story about a therapist allowing a date in their office, breaking down the major red flags of blurred boundaries. My new book is in stores now! Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Get Yours For The Holiday - If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. 00:00 – Intro 00:19 – Why do I have suicidal thoughts but can't act on them?  06:00 – When a friend's passion triggers your Eating Disorder relapse  12:21 – Navigating Anorexia recovery when treatment is denied (NHS & Weight Stigma)  20:06 – CrowdHealth message 21:53 – Plastic Surgery: Confidence booster or Body Dysmorphia?  27:35 – Envisioning suicidal scenarios & struggles with Lithium medication  33:02 – Why do I push my therapist away? (Fear of Abandonment & BPD)  36:36 – OneSkin message 38:13 – AuraFrames message 43:44 – My honest opinion on Gender Affirming Care & the "Affirm First" approach  52:37 – Red Flags: My therapist let me have a date in her office?!  Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: • CrowdHealth: get started today for $99 for your first three months using code ASKKATI at https://www.joincrowdhealth.com/ • OneSkin: For a limited time, try OneSkin for 15% off using code KATI at https://www.oneskin.co/Kati • Aura Frames: Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/KATI Promo Code KATI  Ask Kati Anything ep. 292 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT  MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton  #podcast #psychology #katimorton  MY BOOKS Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ  Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j  Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY  ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati  PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co  Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leading health advocate and licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton joins Zibby to discuss her powerful new guide, WHY DO I KEEP DOING THIS?: Unlearn the Habits Keeping You Stuck and Unhappy. Kati talks about people-pleasing, toxic empathy, the illusion of control, the emotional roots of our self-protective behaviors, and what real healing looks like. She also shares the deeply personal experiences that shaped her work and her journey to becoming a YouTube mental health educator.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/48Mf7FQShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling overwhelmed this holiday season? You're not alone. In today's episode of The Secrets of Supermom Show, I'm joined by Kati Morton, licensed marriage and family therapist, mental health educator, and two-time best-selling author, whose new book Why Do I Keep Doing This? explores the patterns we can't stop repeating—people-pleasing, overcommitting, perfectionism—and how to finally break them.With millions of followers across her YouTube channel, podcast, and social platforms, Kati Morton has become a trusted voice in mental health. She has spoken for companies like Google, YouTube, and Unilever, and her work has been featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The New York Times. Her warm, practical, down-to-earth style helps all of us show up for our families and ourselves with more energy, resilience, and joy.Today, we dive deep into holiday overwhelm, boundaries for moms, emotional resilience, burnout, communication, and simple mental-health strategies you can use immediately.Text us your feedback or questions!Stay connected! Join us in The Supermom Society! Get all the details at thesupermomsociety.com! Get all our show notes, buy the book Secrets of Supermom, and more at our website: www.secretsofsupermom.com Secrets of Supermom on Facebook Secrets of Supermom on Instagram

In this episode of 'Why Not Me', hosted by Tony Mantor from Nashville, Tennessee, special guest Kati Morton—a licensed marriage and family therapist and renowned social media influence—shares her expertise on mental health. Kati discusses her new book, 'Why Do I Keep Doing This?', exploring themes of control, people-pleasing, and perfectionism influenced by personal experiences and her extensive therapy background. She reflects on her journey from starting out as a therapist in 2009 to becoming a trusted voice on YouTube with over 340,000 subscribers. Kati underscores the value of communication, journaling, and the importance of therapy, offering practical advice for those struggling with various mental health issues. Meet Kati Morton: Therapist and Author Kati's New Book: Inspiration and Themes Kati's Journey and Professional Insights The Evolution of Therapy and Social Media Practical Tips for Mental Health Kati's Personal Growth and Reflections The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If the holidays leave you feeling more stressed than joyful, you're not alone. In this episode, Sarah talks with Kati Morton, licensed therapist and author of Why Do I Keep Doing This? about the real reasons holiday anxiety shows up—and what you can do about it. From family dynamics to people-pleasing to the pressure of packed schedules, Kati shares practical tools to help you feel calmer and more in control this season.Kati Morton is a licensed therapist (LMFT), bestselling author, and longtime mental health educator who has spent more than a decade helping people make sense of their emotions. Her third book, Why Do I Keep Doing This? (December 9, 2025, Hachette), explores the emotional loops we know aren't helping us and what it actually takes to change them.Since launching her YouTube channel in 2011, Kati has built a global community of over 1.5 million subscribers and 156 million views. What began as a quiet effort to explain therapy online has become a trusted resource for people navigating trauma, anxiety, self-harm, and emotional overwhelm. Her calm, clear approach has made her a consistent voice in a space that changes constantly.Kati's work often reaches far beyond digital platforms. In the past year, she's been at the center of two viral cultural moments: her TODAY Show segment on “eldest daughter syndrome,” which went viral and was later covered by Vogue, and her appearance on Pod Meets World, where she guided the cast of Boy Meets World through a raw conversation about trauma on set. Kati has been featured on top-rated shows such as TODAY Show, CNN, E! News, CBS The Doctors, Dr. Phil, and The Dr. Drew Show, she has also appeared in numerous prestigious digital outlets such as the New York Times, USA Today, The Hollywood Reporter, Glamour UK, Bustle, INSIDER, HUFFPOST, and many more.Kati also hosts the long-running podcast Ask Kati Anything, featuring guests like Khalyla Kuhn, Shane Dawson, and Rosanna Pansino, and speaks regularly for companies like Google, YouTube, and Unilever on emotional resilience and trauma literacy.At her core, Kati makes big emotions feel understandable and reminds people they're not broken for feeling what they feel.For more information, go to www.KatiMorton.comFollow Kati Morton on Yo

Barbara Dunkelman is here to chat about her incredible journey from being a fan to being the voice of Rooster Teeth's Yang Xiao Long on RWBY. She opens up about the company's unexpected closure, dealing with planning a wedding, and finding relief in a major life change. This deep-dive covers the pressure of chasing trends and the truth about self-worth outside of analytics. We also explore profound personal philosophies, including the 10% vs. 90% rule of reaction , the power of the "Main Character Complex", and the anxiety around personal choices. Barbara and Kati get candid about their shared decision to be childfree, battling societal pressure, and the freedom that comes with fully committing to a life without regret. Plus, learn about her new product line and her D&D podcast, Tales from the Stinky Dragon. My new book is available for pre-order! Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Book Tour: https://katimorton.com/wdikdt-book-tour If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: Aura Frames - use the promo code: KATI at https://auraframes.com/ for $35 off Carver Matte frames Fabletics - 80% off everything for new VIP sign-ups at https://www.fabletics.com/Kati One Skin - use the promo code: KATI for 15% off at https://www.oneskin.co/Kati ⏱️ Timestamps 00:01:32 Moving to Austin: Joining Rooster Teeth and the stressful work visa process. 00:04:14 The early days of RT: Starting as Community Manager when the company was tiny. 00:18:54 Barbara's Anxiety: Starting Always Open and her interest in mental health. 00:23:22 The 10/90 Rule: You have control over how you react to things. 00:25:04 The Main Character Complex: Why everyone is thinking about themselves, not you. 00:28:23 Therapy Search: The challenge of finding the right fit for counseling. 00:44:49 The Scariest Standard: How being exposed to "the best of the best" online affects self-image. 00:46:35 Phone Addiction: Strategies Barbara uses to put her phone in "timeout". 00:47:44 Choosing Childfree: Why Barbara decided against having kids and the pressure to procreate. 00:50:02 Ending the Regret Cycle: Making the decision and committing to it fully. 00:53:01 The "Selfish" Argument: Why choosing your own happiness isn't truly selfish. 01:04:11 The Next Chapter: Retaining the IP for Tales from the Stinky Dragon. 01:06:02 New Venture: Developing her own hair styling cream. 01:08:29 Intentional Travel: Living out their Childfree plans with a trip to Japan More Barbara! Tales from the Stinky Dragon https://www.youtube.com/@stinkydragonpod Barbara's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bdunkelman All Good. No Worries https://www.instagram.com/allgood.noworries Don't forget to Like and Subscribe for more Ask Kati Anything episodes every week Ask Kati Anything ep. 291 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton MY BOOKS Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY While I do not currently offer online therapy, our sponsor BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist. Receive 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt lost after putting all your effort into pleasing others? Maybe you've spent years being the responsible one, the strong one, the helper, the one who “just handles it”… until one day you wake up and feel hollow. Exhausted.  Disconnected from the person you used to be.Maybe you've spent years trying to “doing it all”,  only to wake up one day and wonder where you lost yourself along the way? In this episode, I sit down with Kati Morton, licensed therapist, author, and one of the most trusted mental health voices online. Her new book, Why Do I Keep Doing This?, dives into the emotional and nervous system patterns that keep us stuck in cycles of people-pleasing, low self-esteem, overgiving, perfectionism, and self-abandonment.Together, we explore how unresolved trauma responses shape our beliefs about love, worth, confidence, and why so many of us feel like we need to be “good” or “please others” to feel safe. Together Kati and I discuss what a fawn response is,  the deeper reasons why we fawn or people-please and the emotional cost it takes on us.You'll learn:Why people pleasing begins as a survival strategyWhy rebuilding self worth is about changing patternsWhat your inner critic is trying to protect you fromHow to spot patterns that lead to burnout and resentmentWhy confidence grows through small acts of self trustThe difference between guilt and false guilt in boundary settingHow somatic practices support healing and resiliencePractical tools to regulate stress and shift old patternsIf you're in a season of personal growth, or if you're tired of feeling exhausted, overlooked, or in cycles of self-doubt, this episode will offer compassion, clarity, and a path home to yourself.Tune in. This conversation is a breath of fresh air for anyone ready to reclaim the parts of themselves they had to hide to survive.Much love,LaurieClick here to sign up for my "FREE Online Somatic Workshop - Find Your Calm During the Holidays" on Thursday, Dec 4th at 4 PST Click here for a video on how to leave a review to receive a free somatic stabilization/grounding exercise. The podcast graphic is different from the current one. Once you complete it and send me a picture I will send you the video. My email is laurie@laurieejames.comThank you in advance. Click here to learn about my NEW “Nervous System Regulation Starter Kit” Free ResourcesClick here to schedule a FREE inquiry call with me.Click here for my FREE “Beginner's Guide to Somatic Healing”Click here for my FREE Core Values ExerciseClick here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting GoWebsitePlease leave me feedback. I cannot respond so if you'd like me to respond, please leave your email***********************DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Kati Morton tackles the core question: Why Do I Feel So Behind? when it seems Everyone Else Seems to Have It Together. We dive deep into the psychological struggles of comparison, isolation, and overcoming trauma.We also address the debilitating internal experience: Are You Experiencing Complex PTSD? and provide clarity on What to Do When Your Brain Relates Everything to Trauma. Finally, we cover motivation loss, asking: Do You Have Anhedonia? and share strategies for Finding Motivation When Everything Feels Boring.‌ Don't forget to Like and Subscribe for more Ask Kati Anything episodes every week! Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: • MasterClass always has great offers during the holidays, sometimes up to as much as 50% off. Head over to http://MASTERCLASS.com/KATI for the current offer. • Go to Remi (Custom Night Guards & Dental Solutions) http://shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 55% off a new night guard plus a FREE foam gift that whitens your teeth and cleans your night guard. • Visit https://on.auraframes.com/KATI for an exclusive $45-off Carver Mat - Use promo code KATI at checkout Audience questions & timestamps: 0:00:39 (Q1) Dealing with Friendship Envy. Kati reframes friendship envy as an indicator of what you truly want in life. 0:06:59 (Q2) Recovering from Burnout. The Effort vs. Reward Strategy The key to recovery is assessing where your time and energy go, and then placing boundaries in areas where... My new book is available for pre-order: Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQIf you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. 0:14:12 (Q3) Moving On After Divorce. Rediscovery of Self Divorce is a huge loss, and therapy is a must. The core focus should be on figuring out who you are again through journaling (like The Artist's Way) and taking solo dates. 0:23:48 (Q4) Ego Death & Transformation. Ego vs. Connection Ego is a protective defense mechanism that, when overactive, can cause resistance, sabotage progress, and impede true connection. 0:30:10 (Q5) Why Everything is a Trigger (Complex PTSD) The listener is triggered by everyday items (like Vaseline) and experiences dissociation due to past sexual abuse by their mother. Kati emphasizes the brain is trying to protect the listener. 0:40:29 (Q6) In Crisis But Don't Want to 'Bug' Therapist. It's common for crisis feelings and body memories to intensify at night due to fewer distractions. Advice includes using crisis lines (988, 741741) 0:45:34 (Q7) Loss of Motivation (Approaching 70) Anhedonia and Behavioral Activation Lacking enthusiasm (anhedonia) and motivation is a common sign of depression in older adults, often linked to loss of purpose and isolation. 0:50:29 (Q8) Finding the Right Dose The feeling of being "numbed out" or lacking motivation on an SSRI is often due to blunted affect from a dose that is too high, or the wrong medication entirely. Ask Kati Anything ep. 290 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT MY BOOKS Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!Check out the full episode: https://greatness.lnk.to/989Drawing from her expertise and compassionate approach, Kati Morton shares practical strategies and techniques to navigate feelings of isolation and foster connection. With empathy and understanding, she explores the underlying causes of loneliness and offers tools to build meaningful relationships, both with others and with oneself.Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this deeply honest episode of Ask Kati Anything, guest Jared Craft shares valuable insights into overcoming his ego, financial fears, and the lifelong work of surrendering control. Jared opens up about his journey through addiction and recovery - He details how growing up closeted in a conservative town fostered a deep-seated need for external validation and people-pleasing. He discusses his corporate career at Google and YouTube and the subsequent struggles with exercise addiction and substance abuse, which ultimately led to a dramatic family intervention. This is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the true gift of recovery and how to finally let go of control for personal and professional growth. Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: • Fabletics • https://www.fabletics.com/Kati 80% OFF everything for new VIP members • OneSkin • http://oneskin.co/ use the code KATI for 15% OFF • Crowd Health • http://joincrowdhealth.com/ use the code ASKKATI to get your first three months for just $99 • Remy • https://shopremi.com/kati use the code KATI for 55% OFF plus a FREE gift! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction: Jared Craft 01:42 - Living for external validation in his 20s 02:20 - Growing up closeted in a conservative Minnesota town 03:36 - The early desire for external success and people-pleasing 04:44 - The unexpected process of coming out 07:06 - Moving to LA and the start of deeper addiction struggles 10:29 - The Lance Bass photos 11:09 - The conversation with his sister and parents about his sexuality 18:37 - The Intervention that forced him into his first rehab stint at 24 20:09 - The misconception about what recovery was 23:40 - Sobriety, relapse, and the key difference the second time around My new book is available for pre-order: Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. 26:46 - What is an Inventory? (Self-check for resentment, fear, and harm) 29:29 - The deep-rooted fear of financial trauma and scarcity 32:39 - The Set Aside Prayer for walking into conflict or anxiety 33:58 - Getting over prejudices about the word 'God' and finding a Higher Power 40:32 - The 'Whack-a-Mole' nature of control and addiction 41:49 - Advice for someone who is Day One Sober 42:53 - The Gifts of Recovery 44:48 - How fear of losing clients resulted in poor boundaries 48:03 - Intimate relationships as the current area for growth 51:37 - Jared's next steps: Overcoming the fear of change Ask Kati Anything ep. 289 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT Jared is on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@jcraft MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton MY BOOKS Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Dark Side of Inclusivity: OG YouTuber Arielle Scarcella joins us to discuss the toxic political shift and intolerance of difference of thought in the LGBTQ+ community. Arielle opens up about being canceled 5 times and why she's labeled transphobic for applying common sense. We cover everything from voting for Trump and Gen Z's emotional regulation to how she deals with hate and intolerance. My new book, Why Do I Keep Doing This? comes out on December 9th & you can PRE-ORDER here: https://geni.us/XoyLSQ If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. ** Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: • 15% OFF at OneSkin http://ONESKIN.CO/KATI use code: KATI • 30% OFF at Blissy http://blissy.com/askkatipod Timestamps: 1:31 - Arielle's YouTube Start in 2009: After an abusive relationship 3:37 - Why she started: There was no LGB education online 5:25 - Opinion on trans women in sports 6:44 - First video title: "Lesbian Cougar" 9:24 - Being Canceled 5 Times 12:48 - The Left Left Me: Staying a classic liberal 14:42 - Drag shows for children are creepy and hurt the gay community 15:39 - Dating pool is horrible: Everyone is non-binary 17:34 - Wearing a Rainbow MAGA hat at Pride 18:17 - The most hateful people interviewed were white (White Guilt) 18:59 - People of color listened because they "know what it's like not being heard" 19:46 - Gen Z lacks socialization and social development skills 20:51 - We need debate classes to learn how to disagree and still get along 21:39 - The left loves diversity, except diversity of thought 23:23 - The shift was people publicly ostracizing her for disagreement 30:11 - Confronting haters: They "don't say sh!t" because they lack the social skills 31:18 - Voting for Trump as a lesbian 36:01 - Content is now a moderate/classic liberal view 36:45 - Queer activists converting to Islam 38:59 - Gen Z has lost the plot and doesn't know how to deal with emotions 40:46 - Nostalgia reminds you of "who you are before the world f*cked you up" 42:09 - Street interviews: Confronting haters who "talk sh!t" 43:22 - Today's definition of transphobia: Disagreeing with anything they say 43:57 - You don't need gender dysphoria to be trans in NYC now45:54 - Managing the hate: Knowing who you are makes you manipulation-proof 48:11 - The "Duper's Delight" Smirk (Smug, powerful, specific to woke activists)‌ 52:02 - They tried to prevent her from entering Australia in 2020‌‌‌ Ask Kati Anything ep. 287 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL http://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton MY BOOKS Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0jAre u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is talking about your emotions actually hurting your healing? Licensed therapist Kati Morton dives deep into the non-linear reality of healing, tackling feelings of meaninglessness, navigating forced therapy, and how to recover from therapist abandonment. Discover the key difference between therapeutic processing and harmful rumination, learn what narcissistic abuse looks like, and find out how to get unstuck from survival mode and self-sabotage. Audience Questions: 0:43 - Q1: When Does Talking About Emotions Become Negative? ("...at what point does talking about your motion emotions have a negative effect?" / "...I would rather skip the talking and go straight to the homework...") 8:59 - Q2: Dealing with the Feeling of Meaninglessness ("How do I deal with the feeling of meaninglessness? I'm a successful girl by society standards... But I don't feel any excitement about anything...") ** Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offer: Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code KATI at https://branchbasics.com/KATI 13:49 - Q3: How to Recover from Feeling Abandoned by Your Therapist ("How do I get over feeling worthless even when not even my therapist seems to care.") 19:39 - Q4: The Effects of Toxic Narcissistic Abuse on Healing ("It feels like I'm stuck in a loop. Like I keep sabotaging myself." / "My life revolved around her. She'd get mad if I didn't go out with her...") 26:22 - Q5: Stuck in Survival Mode After Leaving an Abusive Home ("...moving away from home to college because of my abusive parents... I thought moving away would get me out of survival mode, it didn't.") 31:09 - Q6: How to Fix Life Once You Figure Out "The Why" ("...after one figures out why life has turned out the way it did, how does one quote unquote fix that?") 37:57 - Q7: Working on Being Less Hard on Yourself ("I'm very hard on myself and have two higher expectations... Do you have any other methods that can help me work on being less hard on myself?") My new book is available for pre-order: Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. Ask Kati Anything ep. 286 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT MY BOOKS Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices