Wicked Psychotherapists
What do therapy, 80s and 90s nostalgia, and today’s hottest shows and movies have in common?Tanya Dos Santos and Erin Gray, two Psychotherapists with a wicked New England twist, are here to tell you!On the Wicked Psychotherapists podcast, Tanya and Erin dive into today’s most pressing mental health topics and trends, all while tying them to the TV shows and movies we know and love. Whether you’re reliving 80s and 90s classics or binging today’s hits, they’ll help you connect the dots between pop culture and emotional well-being.From anxiety and self-care to resilience...
Beast Games Psychology: Two Therapists Break Down Strategy, Shame, and $5 Million Stakes
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What happens when 1,000 strangers compete for $5 million—with shame, strategy, and survival on the line?
In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya (two real-life therapists) break down the mind games of Mr. Beast’s Beast Games.
We dive into the psychology of trust, betrayal, group dynamics, and why money messes with our moral compass.
Spoilers ahead, insights guaranteed—and yes, we’re talking about the Lamborghini train dilemma.
🎙 Follow, rate, and share—then te...
Belle Gibson & the Psychology of a Fraud (Netflix's Apple Cider Vinegar)
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We dive into the twisted true story behind Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar—the dramatization of wellness influencer Belle Gibson, who faked cancer and built an empire on lies.
Tanya and Erin break down the psychology behind her behavior, including possible signs of Munchausen syndrome, narcissistic traits, and how emotional trauma may have shaped her manipulation.
We also explore:
Why people fall for “health influencers” with no credentialsThe mental health toll on B...The Ferris Effect: Charisma, Control, and Codependence
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Is Ferris Bueller the fun friend—or the problem?
In this week’s episode, Tanya and Erin dive deep into Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, breaking down the psychology behind Ferris’s charm, Cameron’s quiet crisis, and the sibling rivalry with Jeanie.
Through the lens of mental health and therapy, we unpack themes of narcissism, family dysfunction, emotional burnout, and the longing for autonomy. Whether you loved Ferris—or secretly sided with Jeanie—you’ll see this...
Foosball Is the Devil: Therapy Insights of The Waterboy
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In this hilarious and insightful episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, licensed therapists Tanya and Erin take on the 1998 comedy classic The Waterboy, starring Adam Sandler.
Through a mental health lens, they explore Bobby Boucher’s social isolation, explosive anger, and complex relationship with his overprotective mama. What can this cult favorite teach us about trauma, codependency, and emotional regulation?
A lot more than you'd think! Tune in for therapy insights, pop culture breakdowns, and a whole lot of laug...
Mr. Deeds: Big Hearts, Big Laughs, and the Psychology of Kindness
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we have some big laughs while diving into the even bigger heart of Mr. Deeds.
We explore why Deeds' kindness, generosity, and natural instinct to help others make him such a standout character — and why those traits still resonate today.
Through a playful psychological lens, we talk about how goodness challenges cynicism, what it means to stay true to yourself, and why the world could use a few more Deeds.
Com...
The Breakfast Club at 40: Mental Health, High School Roles, and Gen X Reflections
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It’s been 40 years since The Breakfast Club first brought the brain, the athlete, the basket case, the princess, and the criminal together — and we’re diving deep into what still resonates today.
In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin explore the emotional layers of this 80s classic through a psychotherapist’s lens.
From high school identity traps to generational wounds, from laughter to suicidal ideation, and from cliques to compassion — this conversation peels back the stereot...
The Sixth Sense: Therapy, Connection & the Power of Being Seen
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya revisit The Sixth Sense through a therapist’s lens—exploring how fate, unfinished business, and deep human connection guide the healing process.
What happens when a therapist doesn’t even know he’s a ghost… yet still makes space for a child to feel seen and understood?
We unpack the symbolism of therapy, the weight of unresolved trauma, and how validation can transform fear into purpose.
Plus: our mo...
Crossing the Line: The Chilling Tale of The Shrink Next Door
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What happens when therapy crosses the line?
In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya expose the chilling true story behind The Shrink Next Door.
Dive into the disturbing dynamic between Dr. Ike, a manipulative psychiatrist, and his vulnerable patient, Marty.
Discover how a trusted therapeutic relationship turned into a toxic nightmare, crossing ethical boundaries and leaving a trail of lasting damage.
Join us as we explore the warning signs of therapist abus...
Crossing the Line: The Chilling Tale of The Shrink Next Door
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive into the unsettling true story behind The Shrink Next Door.
Join them as they discuss the manipulative relationship between psychiatrist Dr. Ike and his patient Marty, exploring how boundaries were crossed and ethical lines blurred.
From the red flags in their first session to the long-term consequences of toxic influence, Erin and Tanya break down what went wrong and how this story serves as a cautionary tale fo...
Question Everything: The Psychology of Survival in Silo
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What happens to the human mind when you’re trapped in an underground society with no access to the past?
In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we dive into the psychological and sociological themes of Apple TV’s Silo.
From collective trauma and authoritarian control to rebellion, mental health repression, and free will, we explore the hidden layers of this dystopian world.
Join us as we break down the power structures, groupthink, and individual struggles within...
Step One: Don’t Move In With Your Therapist – A Therapist’s Guide to Shrinking
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive into the hit series Shrinking, unpacking its unique approach to therapy, emotional healing, and the challenges of navigating grief.
They explore the dynamic relationships between therapists and clients, especially the personal struggles of the main characters, as well as the blend of humor and vulnerability that makes the show both relatable and thought-provoking.
Join them as they examine how Shrinking portrays mental health with authenticity, while also sp...
High Society & Hidden Secrets: A Wicked Deep Dive into Palm Royale
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Break out the martinis and tease that hair — we’re taking you inside the glamorous (and gloriously dysfunctional) world of Palm Royale!
In this wicked deep dive, your favorite Wicked Psychotherapists unravel the high society secrets, desperate social climbing, and champagne-soaked chaos of Palm Beach’s finest.
From Maxine’s all-consuming need to belong to the toxic friendships, power struggles, and wild identity crises — we’re serving up psychological insights with a side of scandal and sparkle.
Whether y...
Reality Bites (1994) | Gen X, Identity & Existential Angst
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What happens when the weight of adulthood, identity struggles, and Gen X disillusionment collide?
Reality Bites (1994) explores the messiness of post-college life, and in this episode, we’re breaking it all down.
Join us as we dive into the film’s portrayal of finding meaning, selling out vs. staying true, and why Troy might not be the dreamy intellectual we thought he was.
We unpack Lainey’s journey, Vicky’s underrated character arc, and how G...
The Mr. Rogers Effect: How a TV Icon Revolutionized Childhood Compassion
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What made Mr. Rogers more than just a beloved TV host?
In this re-released episode, we uncover how his quiet revolution in children’s television shaped emotional intelligence, mental health, and even modern therapy.
From his groundbreaking approach to big emotions and tough topics to the science-backed power of his calming presence, Mr. Rogers left a legacy that still influences therapists, educators, and parents today.
Join us as we explore his mindful methods, the psychology behi...
Greetings And Salutations: A Look Into The Movie Heathers
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"Greetings and Salutations!"
This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive into the cult classic Heathers.
From its biting social commentary to the twisted relationship between Veronica and JD, we explore the film’s dark humor, high school hierarchy, and deep psychological layers.
What makes Heathers timeless, and how does its portrayal of cliques, manipulation, and mental health still resonate today?
Plus, we discuss a fascinating fan theory about JD and debate whethe...
Love Day: Navigating Relationships, Self-Love, and Nostalgia
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In this re-release episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin take a heartfelt, humorous, and nostalgic dive into the many phases of Valentine’s Day.
From childhood candy exchanges and awkward middle school carnations to adult celebrations and finding meaning in Love Day, they explore the psychological and emotional layers behind the holiday.
Whether you’re single, coupled up, or simply curious about how Valentine’s Day impacts our views on love and relationships, this episode has somethi...
From Sandworms to Soul Trains: A Wicked Look at Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin dive into the hauntingly hilarious world of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.
Join them as they explore Lydia’s burnout, Astrid’s teenage rebellion, and the surprising family dynamics that unfold in this quirky sequel.
From sandworms and soul trains to ghostly humor and gothic vibes, we’re breaking down what Tim Burton’s vision reveals about grief, boundaries, and complicated relationships.
Whether you’re a fan of the original or j...
Somatic Therapy Secrets: Healing Through Movement and Awareness
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Did you know your body keeps score of your emotions, stress, and even trauma?
In this must-listen encore of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin reveal the transformative power of somatic therapy—a mind-body approach that helps you unlock deeper healing.
Discover why movement, breathwork, and body awareness can do what words alone sometimes can’t.
From grounding exercises to tips on releasing trauma stored in the body, this episode is your guide to feeling lighter, calme...
Making Waves: Exploring Stability and Chaos in the Movie Mermaids
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we dive deep into the 1990 movie Mermaids, starring Cher, Winona Ryder, and Christina Ricci.
Join us as we explore the delicate balance of stability and chaos within a complex family dynamic.
We discuss the emotional layers of mother-daughter relationships, coming-of-age challenges, and the psychological themes that make this film both heartwarming and poignant.
Whether you're a fan of Cher’s iconic style or fascinated by the intricate psychological portrait of th...
Under the Moon: Cher, Nicolas Cage, and 80s Nostalgia in Moonstruck
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In this week’s re-release episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin dive headfirst into the magical world of the 1987 classic Moonstruck.
Join them as they unravel the family dynamics, explore Cher's timeless charm, and analyze Nicolas Cage’s unforgettable (and wonderfully quirky) performance.
From the symbolic pull of the moon to the tangled web of love and tradition, this episode will have you laughing, reminiscing, and maybe even rethinking family roles.
Don’t miss this hear...
Cut to the Heart: Edward Scissorhands, Belonging, and the Cost of Being Different
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What happens when you don’t fit the mold?
Hosts Tanya and Erin of Wicked Psychotherapists dive into Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands to explore its poignant mental health themes.
From the heartbreak of isolation and the pressure to conform, to the courage it takes to embrace difference, they connect Edward’s story to real-life psychological struggles.
Plus, don’t miss their hilarious debate: Would they let Edward give them a haircut?
"Exploring the sharp...
A Nightmare Before Christmas: Jack’s Quest for Identity and Holiday Magic
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Unveil the hidden psychology behind Tim Burton's holiday masterpiece!
This seasonal encore episode unwraps the layers of The Nightmare Before Christmas, exposing the secrets of codependency, self-esteem, and identity crisis. 🎃🎄
Join us on a festive journey through Halloween Town and Christmas Town as we dissect the characters' minds and unravel the mysteries behind Jack Skellington's quest for a new identity.
Get ready for a spellbinding exploration of how these timeless themes echo i...
Stand By Me: Friendship, Family, and Growing Up
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin take a heartfelt journey through the 1986 classic Stand By Me.
They explore its timeless themes of friendship, adolescence, and mental health, reflecting on how the film's coming-of-age story still resonates with audiences today.
From the unforgettable characters brought to life by River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, and an incredible cast, to the deeper layers of trauma and growing up, Tanya and Erin uncover the emotional depth behind the s...
Unwrapping Christmas Memories: Navigating Family Dynamics and Traditions
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Join Tanya and Erin from Wicked Psychotherapists as they dive into the complexities of the holiday season.
They'll share personal stories, cherished traditions, and the challenges of navigating family dynamics during Christmas.
From nostalgic memories and festive decorations to the pressures of gift-giving and setting boundaries, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of maintaining mental well-being during the holidays.
* Encore Episode*
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From the North Pole to Real Life: Exploring 'Elf' Through a Mental Health Lens
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin take a cheerful dive into the holiday classic Elf, starring the unforgettable Will Ferrell.
From its whimsical charm to its heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, acceptance, and identity, they unpack why Elf has become a beloved Christmas favorite.
The duo analyzes Buddy the Elf’s unique personality and the mental health themes woven into the story, all while reflecting on their own holiday movie traditions. Plus, they tac...
Thanksgiving Traditions: Reflections on Food, Family, and Mental Health
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin discuss their Thanksgiving traditions, childhood memories, and the interplay of mental health during the holidays.
They share personal anecdotes about family feasts, cultural influences, and how their celebrations have evolved over time.
The episode focuses on the importance of creating new traditions, managing holiday stress, and finding comfort in seasonal rituals.
They also talk about the significance of being surrounded by loved ones and establishing boundaries to...
Inside Out 2: Emotions in Motion – The Psychotherapists' Take
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya explore the movie 'Inside Out 2,' discussing its portrayal of emotional development and regulation during puberty.
They compare personal experiences, highlight significant moments in the film, and reflect on its relevance to mental health education.
We hope you enjoy it!
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FUBAR- Encore Episode
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***Spoiler alerts for the Netflix series "FUBAR."***
In this episode, Erin and Tanya discuss the father-daughter dynamic in the context of the Netflix hit show "FUBAR". This action-packed, hilarious show centers around the inter-workings & evolution of this father-daughter duo and how they work out their relationship amongst wild adventures within the CIA.
Additionally, we also discuss and analyze other thoughts and feelings amongst peripheral relationships within the story and how we view the characters from a m...
Wicked 80s: Horror and Thriller Movies That Defined Our Fears
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin dive into the iconic horror and thriller movies of the 1980s.
They discuss the cultural and psychological impact of these films, their personal experiences with them, and how these movies continue to influence modern media.
From Stephen King's masterpieces to the eerie paranoia of the Cold War era, this episode explores why the 80s remain a beloved era for horror and thriller aficionados.
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The 80s Satanic Panic: The Media's Role in Fueling Mass Hysteria
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin dive into the phenomenon of the Satanic Panic of the 1980s.
They discuss the mass hysteria fueled by the media, the involvement of mental health professionals in perpetuating the false narratives, and the widespread repercussions on society.
Through the lens of the documentary 'Satan Wants You,' they explore how one book, 'Michelle Remembers,' led to a nationwide moral panic, the dubious therapeutic practices of the time, an...
Practical Magic: Witchy Themes and Mental Health Insights
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In this episode of 'Wicked Psychotherapists,' Tanya and Erin dive into the 1998 film 'Practical Magic.'
They explore its witchy themes and the mental health insights it provides, linking the magical elements of the movie to real-life issues such as family dynamics, trauma, and recovery.
They discuss the contrasting personalities of the sisters, Sally and Jillian, and how the movie portrays the intersection of magic, intuition, and mental health.
The hosts also draw parallels bet...
M. Night Shyamalan's The Village: Grief, Secrets, and Spooky Creatures
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin explore the psychological themes of M. Night Shyamalan's 2004 film, 'The Village,' delving into fear, control, and societal structures in a fictional puritanical utopia.
They analyze how trauma, environment, and myths influence behavior and maintain social order, with special focus on the film's notable elements like color symbolism and character dynamics.
The episode also features a deep dive into key characters, Ivy and Noah, and discusses their jo...
Don’t Say It 3 Times! Beetlejuice: The Cult Classic
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin venture into the bizarre and iconic world of Beetlejuice.
They dive deep into the film’s eccentric charm, exploring psychological and intergenerational themes hidden beneath its quirky humor.
From the significance of the Maitlands’ home and the bizarre bureaucracy of the afterlife to speculating about what the sequel might hold, they unpack the film’s unique take on family dynamics, depression, and personal struggles.
With a mix of n...
Psychology of Halloween - Encore Episode
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Join us in this Halloween-themed episode as Erin and Tanya , explore the psychology behind Halloween.
Discover the reasons people are drawn to Halloween's creativity, the suspension of reality, and the dark or spooky themes.
In this episode they delve into the different traditions of Halloween, the joy of costumes, and even how it may serve as a controlled outlet for anxiety.
Explore the contrast between those who embrace the holiday's magic and those who see it a...
Understanding Codependency: Are You Okay?
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin discuss the concept of codependency, its impact on various types of relationships, and the origins often rooted in trauma and dysfunctional family dynamics.
They touch on common misconceptions, the relationship between codependency and substance abuse, and how these patterns affect individuals' self-esteem and interactions.
The hosts also highlight the importance of therapy and personal growth in overcoming codependent behaviors and establishing healthy boundaries.
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Revisit the Healing Power of Animals: A Fresh Look at Animal-Assisted Therapy
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, bring back an episode we didd about animal-assisted therapy.
Whether you’re a seasoned therapist, a curious client, or just an animal enthusiast, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of how our furry, feathered, and even scaly friends contribute to emotional healing.
Key Takeaways:
Timeless Benefits of AAT: Discover how animal-assisted therapy enhances self-esteem, provides emotional support, and creates a non-judgmental space for healing.Exploring Di...How our High School Experiences Affect and Define Us
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin explore the significant role high school plays in shaping our identities.
They discuss the diverse experiences people have during these pivotal years, the importance placed on high school, and the long-lasting impacts it can have.
Reflecting on their own high school years, they talk about peer groups, the challenge of self-discovery, and how trauma and support systems affect one’s journey.
With personal anecdotes and insig...
Navigating Career Transitions Across the Decades
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin discuss the complexities of career transitions during different life stages, specifically focusing on the 20s, 30s, and 40s.
They explore themes like generational differences, the impact of social media, the unique challenges and expectations faced by each age group, and the influences on mental health.
Personal anecdotes and client experiences are shared to highlight common feelings of frustration, anxiety, and the quest for meaning in one's career.
Exploring Emotions: Inside Out
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin explore the 2015 Pixar movie Inside Out and its relevance to mental health therapy.
They discuss how the film creatively portrays emotions and processing, particularly in children, and how it resonates with both therapists and clients.
They share their first impressions of the movie, the importance of integrating all emotions for healthy development, and reflect on the personal impact of growing up with animated influences like Inspector Gadget.
Understanding the Allure of Cults: A Psychological Perspective
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin delve into the intriguing world of cults.
They explore the reasons behind people's attraction to cults, both from an external viewer's perspective and from the viewpoint of those within.
The discussion covers famous cults like those led by Charles Manson and the Heaven’s Gate group, examining the psychological factors and societal needs that drive individuals to join such groups.
Throughout the conversation, Tanya and Erin...
