Wicked Psychotherapists
What do therapy, ’80s and ’90s nostalgia, today’s hottest shows and movies—and a surprising number of Adam Sandler films—have in common?Tanya Dos Santos and Erin Gray—two licensed psychotherapists with a wicked New England twist—are here to spill the tea and the therapeutic insights.On The Wicked Psychotherapists Podcast, Tanya and Erin break down the mental health themes that matter most—anxiety, identity, burnout, self-worth, relationships, and resilience—through the lens of pop culture. From the rad classics of the ’80s and ’90s to today’s buzziest series and films, nothing is off-limits… especially when it somehow connects back t...
From Pauly Shore to Click: Back in the Adam Sandler-verse
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We kick things off with a very quick review of Pauly Shore Is Dead (yes, really), then dive into Click—and what it says about doomscrolling, burnout, and living life on autopilot.
That’s where the conversation opens up into real life—doomscrolling, autopilot living, burnout, and how easy it is to miss your actual life while trying to get through it.
We talk about work, distraction, emotional avoidance, and what it looks like when life starts feelin...
We Watched Adam Sandler’s Bulletproof (1996) So You Don’t Have To
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Let’s just say… this one was definitely a very 90s experience.
We’re breaking down the buddy-cop chaos with Damon Wayans, the over-the-top action scenes, visible stunt doubles, classic Adam Sandler humor, and all the cheesy moments that somehow still make it entertaining to talk about.
From friendship and betrayal to ridiculous plot twists and full-on nostalgia, we give our honest take on whether this forgotten Adam Sandler movie is worth revisiting — or better left in the 90s...
Heathers Revisited: 37 Years Later & 6 Degrees of Adam Sandler
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“Greetings and Salutations!”
We’re doing a special re-release of our Heathers episode in honor of the 37th anniversary of the film’s release (March 31, 1989).
You might be wondering, “Is Adam Sandler in this movie?” He’s not—but Heathers is only six degrees from Adam since Winona Ryder starred in Mr. Deeds.
We dive into the twisted relationship between Veronica and JD, explore the film’s dark humor, high school hierarchy, and deep...
The Psychology of Music: Why Certain Songs Hit So Deep
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One of our most popular episodes is back—and it’s just as powerful as ever.
Music isn’t just something we listen to—it’s something we feel.
In this re-released episode, Erin and Tanya explore the deep connection between music and mental health, and how the songs we love can shape our emotions, memories, and healing.
They share personal stories and real-life moments where music became a coping tool—helping process difficult feelings, shift moods...
Our Adam Sandler Journey Continues: Breaking Down Punch-Drunk Love (2002
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Our Adam Sandler movie journey continues, and this week we’re diving into the 2002 film Punch-Drunk Love starring Adam Sandler.
In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we explore Barry Egan — a lonely, anxious, emotionally overwhelmed man trying to navigate a world that often feels confusing and hostile. While Sandler is best known for his loud comedy roles, this performance shows a much quieter, more vulnerable side of his acting.
Through a therapist’s lens, we unpack the compli...
From Goofy to Heartfelt: Adam Sandler in The Wedding Singer
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Join Erin and Tanya on Wicked Psychotherapists as they rewind to the 90s with The Wedding Singer! 🎤💔
Laugh along as they explore Adam Sandler’s journey from goofy comedy to heartfelt, emotionally raw performances.
From angsty Cure-inspired songs to Robbie Hart’s loyal friends and quirky fans, they dive into love, trust, self-worth, and what really makes someone “successful.”
Packed with humor, nostalgia, and sharp psychological insight, this episode proves that Sandler’s 80s-inspired comedy is more heartfelt—a...
Hustle: Adam Sandler as Your Therapist-Coach (Underdogs, Mindset & Mental Toughness)
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This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, we’re breaking down Hustle (2022) starring Adam Sandler—and wow, this one hits different. 🏀✨
We dive into Sandler’s powerful shift from comedy to coach, exploring the psychology behind motivation, mental resilience, and what it really takes to believe in someone when the world doesn’t.
From Bo Cruz’s underdog story to Stanley’s leap of faith, this film gives us a masterclass in passion, grit, emotional regulation, and the impact of having just one...
Don’t Say It 3 Times! Revisiting Beetlejuice, the Cult Classic
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin venture into the bizarre, iconic world of Beetlejuice (1988), Tim Burton’s cult classic starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Alec Baldwin, and Geena Davis.
They dive deep into the film’s eccentric charm, unpacking the psychological and intergenerational themes hidden beneath its quirky, dark humor. From the symbolism of the Maitlands’ home and the absurd bureaucracy of the afterlife to reflections on family dynamics, depressi...
That’s My Boy: Adam Sandler, Stupid Humor, and the Effects of Trauma
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive into That's My Boy, one of Adam Sandler’s most controversial and over-the-top comedies.
On the surface, the film leans hard into intentionally stupid humor, shock value, and deeply inappropriate jokes. But underneath the chaos is a surprisingly clear portrait of unresolved childhood trauma, emotional immaturity, and the long-term impact of neglectful parenting.
We unpack Donnie Burger’s impulsivity, poor boundaries, and stalled emotional development, along...
Man-Child in the Classroom:Billy Madison's Tenure
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In this episode, we revisit Billy Madison through a psychological lens, exploring what happens when emotional growth lags far behind chronological age.
While Billy is technically repeating grades, he’s also emotionally regressing—relying on privilege, humor, and avoidance instead of accountability and skill-building.
We break down arrested development, entitlement, impulsivity, and identity confusion, asking whether Billy is truly incapable or simply underdeveloped.
With humor, insight, and our signature therapist commentary, this episode digs i...
The Psychology of Hallmark Movies: Why We Keep Coming Back for Comfort, Predictability, and Hope
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Why are Hallmark movies so comforting—and why do so many of us come back to them again and again?
In this re-released episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we dig into the psychology behind Hallmark movies and explore what makes them so emotionally satisfying. From predictable storylines and familiar characters to themes of safety, belonging, and redemption, these films offer something deeper than “easy watching.”
We talk about:
Why predictability can be soothing for the nervou...Stand By Me (1986): Why This Coming-of-Age Story Still Hurts (in the Best Way)
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In this rereleased episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, hosts Tanya and Erin revisit the 1986 classic Stand By Me—a film that continues to shape how we understand friendship, growing up, and emotional resilience.
Through a therapist’s lens, they explore the psychological themes woven throughout the story, including childhood trauma, grief, identity development, and the deep bonds formed during adolescence. The conversation highlights the unforgettable performances by River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Co...
Why Adam Sandler Movies Work: The Psychology of Grown Ups 2
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This week we slip into Adam Sandler’s middle era — the years where comedy meets identity, family meets frat boys, and basketball shorts somehow become a personality trait. We’re not reviewing Grown Ups 2 as much as using it as a gateway into Sandler’s evolution: the humor that aged with him, the themes that stayed constant, and the way he reflects real-life transitions on screen, intentionally or not.
We explore midlife shift energy, the vulnerability of being seen differen...
Stay Gold: The Psychology of Belonging and Survival in The Outsiders
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This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya break down the emotional heartbeat of The Outsiders — a story about loyalty, grief, and the desperate need to belong.
We dig into the psychology behind Ponyboy, Johnny, and the Greasers, exploring how trauma, class struggles, and found family shape identity and resilience.
From the pain of loss to the power of empathy, this episode shines a light on what it means to “stay gold” even when life feels anything but.
...Good, Evil, and Daddy Issues: A Little Nicky Therapy Session
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This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive into the hellishly funny world of Little Nicky — Adam Sandler’s misunderstood son of Satan.
We’re unpacking family dynamics from the underworld, sibling rivalry that could literally end the world, and what it means to grow up labeled “the weird one.”
From exploring Nicky’s identity struggles to the surprising heart and redemption hiding behind the flames, we’re examining all the psychological themes that make this cult classic mo...
Hubie Halloween-Protecting Salem one Thermos at a Time
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This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya are heading to Salem for a wicked good time with Adam Sandler’s Hubie Halloween 🎃
We break down all the laughs, the heart, and the surprisingly deep psychological layers behind this misunderstood hero. From empathy and bullying to the power of kindness, we explore why Hubie might just be the most emotionally grounded guy in all of Salem.
We also talk about life in New England, Halloween traditions, and answe...
Breast Cancer: A Psychotherapist's Story
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In this re-release of a powerful episode, Erin is interviewed by Tanya about her journey with breast cancer.
Erin shares how the diagnosis and treatment affected her emotionally, how it shaped her perspective as a psychotherapist, and some of the personal experiences she encountered along the way.
This episode shares personal experiences and is not a substitute for professional or mental health advice.
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High School & Beyond: How Those Years Shape Us as Adults (Re-Release)
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This episode is a re-release of one of our most popular conversations! Tanya and Erin dive into the world of high school, reflecting on how those formative years shaped who we are as adults.
From discovering your identity and navigating friendships to learning life lessons that stick long after graduation, this episode explores the lasting impact of high school and how it echoes into adult life.
Listener discretion is advised—this conversation includes personal experiences and discussions of t...
Just Go With It (2011) | Psychology of Love, Lies,Pretending
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Join Tanya and Erin on Wicked Psychotherapists as they break down the romantic comedy Just Go With It (2011).
From surprise streaming finds to the hilarious (and sometimes outrageous) twists in Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston’s chemistry, they unpack the movie’s quirky plot, lovable characters, and hidden lessons about relationships, authenticity, and self-worth.
Whether you’re a longtime Adam Sandler fan, a rom-com enthusiast, or just curious about the psychology behind love, lies, and pretending, this episode...
Beyond Loss: Exploring the Lesser-Known Griefs
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We all know grief after death or major loss—but what about the other kinds of grief we rarely name? In this re-release of one of our most powerful episodes, Erin and Tanya explore the hidden and lesser-known griefs that quietly shape our lives.
From lost opportunities and shifting identities to friendships that faded and versions of ourselves we never got to become, these quieter griefs deserve recognition too. Through candid conversation and personal insight, we shine light on th...
FUBAR: Season One Re-Release | The Wicked Psychotherapists
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Season One of The Wicked Psychotherapists is back—raw, unfiltered, and totally FUBAR.
Join licensed psychotherapists Erin Gray and Tanya Dos Santos as they unpack the chaos of life, relationships, and mental health with their wicked New England twist.
From 80s and 90s nostalgia to today’s pop culture trainwrecks, every episode blends humor, therapy insights, and brutally honest conversations about what it really means to be human.
Whether you’re here for the psychology, the stor...
The Balloon Boy Saga: Fact or Fiction?
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Dive into the captivating world of the Balloon Boy Hoax with Tanya and Erin.
In this episode, they unravel the layers of this sensational event that gripped global audiences in 2009.
Explore the Heaney family's eccentric dynamics, the media's role in amplifying the story, and the lasting impact of this bizarre incident. Perfect for true crime enthusiasts and anyone curious about one of the most talked-about hoaxes of the decade.
Tune in for a blend of ins...
Exploring Adam Sandler’s Murder Mysteries
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Tanya and Erin continue dissecting Adam Sandler's filmography by diving into his recent movies 'Murder Mystery' and 'Murder Mystery 2' on Netflix.
They discuss the evolution of Sandler's comedic style, the chemistry between Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, and the psychological themes within the film. Additionally, they analyze the interplay, motivations, and dynamics of the characters, comparing them to real-life scenarios.
Tune in to hear their thoughts on whether to choose a ri...
Happy Gilmore 2 (Netflix Review) | We React to Adam Sandler’s Sequel
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We react to Happy Gilmore 2 — the surprise Netflix hit!
*There Are Spoilers*
Adam Sandler is back as Happy in Happy Gilmore 2 — and we’re reacting to Netflix’s wild new sequel.
From over-the-top golf chaos to surprisingly heartfelt moments, this one had us laughing, cringing, and talking way too much about hip ligaments.
🎬 Spoilers ahead! Watch Happy Gilmore 2 on Netflix, then come hang with us for the breakdown.
👇 Don’t forget to follo...
From Surviving Middle School to Grown Ups: Friendship, Nostalgia & Adam Sandler
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we dive into Adam Sandler’s Grown Ups and dig into the psychology behind nostalgia, childhood friendships, and the lifelong patterns we carry into adulthood.
From the Gen X childhoods we remember to the pressures of parenting in a digital age, we explore how early bonds shape us—and how even a silly waterpark scene can unpack themes of identity, growth, vulnerability, and healing generational wounds.
Plus: reflections on middle school traum...
Office Space & Burnout: Why Corporate Culture Feels Soul-Sucking
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In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive deep into the cult classic Office Space and unpack the very real mental health themes hiding in plain sight—burnout, toxic work environments, corporate dysfunction, and the pressure to “find meaning” in your 9 to 5.
Whether you've ever hated your job, dreamed about smashing your office printer, or questioned your career path while stuck in traffic—this one’s for you.
We explore how identity, purpose, and work culture co...
Truman Show: Gaslighting, Social Media, and the Search for Self
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What if your entire life was secretly being broadcast to the world—would you know it?
This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive deep into the psychological layers of The Truman Show, that eerily ahead-of-its-time 1998 film starring Jim Carrey in one of his first serious roles.
We break down how this classic predicted the rise of social media, 24/7 surveillance culture, and the growing pressure to perform “normalcy” for an invisible audience.
From...
Meet the Fockers: Gen X, Family Dysfunction & People Pleasing
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This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, Gen X psychotherapist Erin and her “Xennial” co-host Tanya (that sweet spot between Gen X and Millennial) dig into the hilarious emotional chaos of Meet the Parents and Meet the Fockers. Think: lie detectors, lost cats, ninth-place trophies — and a whole lot of family dysfunction.
Why do people-pleasers like Greg fall apart around controlling dads? How does being raised with too much or not enoughstructure shape anxiety, identity, and our adult relationships?
Erin a...
Would Therapy Ever Be Like Anger Management? Psychotherapists Break It Down
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Can therapy really look like what we see in Anger Management with Adam Sandler and Jack Nicholson? In this laugh-out-loud episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya—two licensed therapists—take a wicked deep dive into the film’s chaotic version of “treatment.”
We’re talking unethical therapy, people-pleasing personalities, power dynamics, and the real psychology behind why Adam Sandler’s character avoids conflict (until he doesn’t).
From the bizarre exposure techniques to the ridiculous boundary-blurring moments, we’re br...
Twins, Tantrums, and Therapy: Breaking Down Adam Sandler's “Jack and Jill”
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In this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya keep the Adam Sandler streak alive by diving headfirst into the outrageous 2011 comedy Jack and Jill.
From twin dynamics to emotional dysregulation, sibling rivalry, and unresolved grief, we unpack the psychological gems hidden beneath the slapstick chaos.
Join us as we dissect Jill’s unfiltered emotions, Jack’s image-conscious career moves, and what this movie reveals about authenticity, family roles, and identity.
Of course...
Big Daddy, Failure to Launch & the Fear of Adulting – Why Your 5-Year Plan Might Be BS
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In this week's Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya dive into the 1999 classic Big Daddy—a hilarious Adam Sandler film that surprisingly packs a serious punch about arrested development, generational pressure, and why so many people get stuck in "failure to launch" mode.
From fake five-year plans to learning how to adult (badly), we talk about the fear of growing up, why career pressure is real, and how the smallest relationships can kickstart major change.
We also share our...
The Price Is Wrong, Bob! — Anger, Identity & Finding Your Happy Place in Happy Gilmore
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What do golf balls, unresolved trauma, and Bob Barker have in common? You guessed it—Happy Gilmore!
In this week's episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, Erin and Tanya tee off on one of Adam Sandler’s most iconic (and unhinged) roles.
From attachment wounds and abandonment to anger management and visualization techniques, we explore Happy’s journey through grief, identity shifts, and emotional regulation—all disguised as a slapstick sports comedy.
Get ready for a deep (and hilari...
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...
