In this episode, Grant and Fata are joined by Dr. Scott Shapiro. Dr. Scott Shapiro, a leading expert in Adult ADHD trained at Harvard Medical School, provides specialized care in New York City, combining psychopharmacology, medical psychiatry, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He also is a Corporate Executive Coach, helping professionals enhance their performance, productivity, and communication skills. Dr. Shapiro shares his expertise as a specialist in Adult ADHD, its treatment, and practical strategies to help individuals overcome their challenges. 

We hope you enjoy. 



Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Scott Shapiro

https://www.scottshapiromd.com/ [https://www.doorknobcomments.com/]

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Navigating Adult ADHD with Dr. Scott Shapiro

In this episode, Grant and Fara delve into the topic of insight. They discuss its meaning, the benefits of having insight, and the various ways in which insight can be lacking. They also explore strategies for enhancing one's insight into their mental health and the role of therapy in encouraging patients to critically engage with their mental illness. We hope you find it enjoyable.

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Insight and Mental Health

In this episode of Doorknob Comments Grant and Fara are joined by Angie Tekriwal, owner of Silver Lining Counseling LLC and counselor specializing in treating adolescents, young adults, and families at her private practice in Montclair, New Jersey.  Angie is also a mother and a good friend of Fara. They talk about the impact of media consumption on kids, inside scoop on the mom experience, and a range of other subjects.

We hope you enjoy it!

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Angie Tekriwal

https://www.angietekriwal.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

The Challenges of Modern Parenting with Angie Tekriwal

In this episode, Grant and Fara dive into the animated film Inside Out 2, exploring its creative depiction of emotions and the educational value it offers. They begin by providing a synopsis of the film, followed by an in-depth discussion on how emotions like anxiety and sadness play a crucial role in the protagonist Riley’s conflicts and emotional growth. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of emotional frameworks in the film and how they reflect real-life therapeutic approaches. As always, they wrap up with some thoughtful closing remarks and doorknob comments.

We hope you enjoy it.

In This Episode
[0:00] Introduction
[1:20] Episode Overview
[2:00] Synopsis of Inside Out 2
[5:00] Exploring Emotional Representation and Educational Themes
[12:40] Anxiety's Impact on Riley's Journey
[15:40] Anxiety as a Manifestation of Insecurity
[19:00] Sadness and Emotional Integration
[21:00] Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Depicted in the Film
[23:00] Which Emotion Takes the Lead?
[29:20] Navigating Social Challenges and Stereotypes in Adolescence
[33:10] Linking Gendered Social Dynamics Back to Childhood
[36:15] Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Inside Out 2: Anxiety and Insecurity

In this episode, Grant and Fara are joined by Dr. Alexey Tolchinsky, a clinical psychologist, adjunct professor at George Washington University, and clinical fellow of the International Neuropsychoanalysis Association. He works with neurodiverse patients and young adults struggling with life transitions. Today, they discuss his peer-reviewed research, namely what he refers to as narrative fallacy in psychotherapy. Dr. Tolchinksky explains what he thinks are the dangers of narrative fallacy in psychotherapy, how it plays out between therapists and patients, and ways that we can consider re-thinking ingrained narratives in the therapeutic encounter.

We hope you enjoy it.

In This Episode

[0:00] Introduction

[1:30] Episode Overview

[04:40] Alexey’s Journey into Clinical Psychology

[6:10] The Concept of Narrative Fallacy

[13:10] Narrative Fallacy in Clinical Setting: ADHD and Anxiety

[21:15] Achieving Patient Wellness

[24:50] Data vs. Theory-Driven Practice

[28:40] Applying Narrative Fallacy in Therapy

[34:30] Static and Dynamic Diagnostic Tools

[44:40] Potential for Dynamic Tools in Therapy

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Alexey Tolchinksky

https://montgomerycountypsychologist.com/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Narrative Fallacies in Dynamic Therapy

In this episode, Grant and Fara are joined by esteemed neurophysicist and authority on brain imaging, Dr. Karl Friston. His revolutionary impact on studies of the brain derives from his inventive use of probability theory to analyze neural imaging data. They discuss how we might think about psychotherapy from the point of view of Dr. Friston’s work and briefly touch on artificial general intelligence, AGI, through Karl’s work on VERSES AI.

We hope you enjoy!

In This Episode

[0:00] Introduction

[1:35] Episode Overview

[02:30] Journey into Brain Imaging Research

[6:30] Mathematics and Brain Processing

[12:10] Active Inference and its Relevance to Psychotherapy

[24:10] Therapeutic Alliance as Computational System

[27:50] Revising Entrenched Beliefs Through Therapy

[32:20] Trauma, Condition, and Altered Rationale

[55:00] Mindfulness and Managing Prediction Errors

[1:00:00] Consciousness and Selfhood

[1:04:35] Verses AI and the Future of Psychiatry

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Karl Friston

https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/2747-karl-friston

https://www.verses.ai/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Active Inference, the Free Energy Principle, and Therapy

In this episode, Fara and Grant approach the sticky subjects in therapy, such as: billing, scheduling, boundaries, connection... and whether I really AM my therapist's favorite patient!! They provide insights into the challenges associated with managing this relationship and offer guidance on how to effectively communicate with your therapist. How do you bring up your concerns? Is it wrong to feel emotionally or romantically attracted to your therapist? This episode covers a wide range of topics to hopefully ease some of your anxieties.

We hope you enjoy.

Key Takeaways:

Therapists, like anyone else, have their unique ways of approaching therapy based on their training and sensibilities.

If you ever feel uncertain or have questions about your therapy, please don't hesitate to bring them up with your therapist. It's important to work through any concerns in your relationship with your therapist, and they are there to take them seriously and support you.

In This Episode:

[0:00] Introduction

[01:00] Episode Overview

[03:15] Getting to Therapy on Time (...or not)

[07:30] Balancing Scheduling and Boundaries

[12:10] Adapting Therapy Practices

[15:10] Professionalism and Remote Therapy

[19:40] Ethical Boundaries in Therapist-Patient Relationships

[24:50] Handling Multiple Sources of Advice

[31:47] Am I Your Favorite??

[38:53] Therapeutic Obligations

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

What Does My Therapist Really Think?

In this episode, Grant and Fara have a conversation with Dr. Robin Stern, the Co-Founder and Senior Advisor for the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. Dr. Stern is also the author of The Gaslight Effect [https://www.amazon.com/Gaslight-Effect-Survive-Manipulation-Control/dp/0767924452] and the host of The Gaslight Effect Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gaslight-effect-podcast/id1645322193]. They delve into Dr. Stern's journey in exploring gaslighting, the common tactics used by gaslighters in relationships, the role of shame and isolation for victims, and much more. Drawing from her 30 years of experience in treating individuals, couples, and families, Dr. Stern offers valuable insights into gaslighting dynamics and the steps to reclaiming one's narrative.

We hope you enjoy!

Key Takeaways

The longer you’re in a relationship where you’re second-guessing your reality and accommodating the other, the harder it is to leave.

Many times shame can begin to creep into gaslighting relationships. Victims might be ashamed to bring their gaslighters behavior up to family and friends, and can further isolate themselves.

In This Episode

[0:00] Introduction

[1:05] Episode Overview

[02:30] Robin’s Journey to Exploring Gaslighting

[10:10] Red Flags and Disavowal

[17:15] ‘Stage 3’ of Gaslighting

[18:40] Masquerading Gaslighting in Relationships

[22:10] The Role of Isolation and Shame

[24:30] Reclaiming Reality and Pushing Back

[27:40] Gaslighting vs. Other Forms of Dysfunctional Communication

[30:40] Navigating Behavioral Intention

[33:55] What about Gaslighters?

[35:40] Closing Thoughts

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Robin Stern

https://robinstern.com/

https://howwefeel.org/

Dr. Fara White

https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

https://www.granthbrennermd.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

The Gaslight Effect with Dr. Robin Stern

In this episode, Grant and Fara discuss the recent criticism that therapy has faced following the release of several publications, particularly "The Therapist Who Hated Me" by Michael Bacon. They delve into the dynamics of the therapist-patient relationship in various therapeutic approaches and the potential challenges that may arise. They emphasize that there is no universal solution for therapy and stress the importance of evaluating treatment options to find what works best for each individual. 

We hope you find this discussion insightful and enjoyable.

Key Takeaways

 * No treatment is perfect, it is important to evaluate what's happening in therapy. Negative therapeutic experiences are valid, but hopefully shouldn't be the only experiences
 * "Therapy is first and foremost meant to help facilitate development in a good direction" 

In This Episode

 * [0:00] Introduction
 * [01:10] Episode Overview
 * [04:50] "The Therapist Who Hated Me" and Melanie Klein
 * [08:05] Exploring the Therapist/Patient Relationship
 * [13:30] Finding the Right Fit, the Right Treatment
 * [17:30] Boom in Popularity for Therapy
 * [25:00] Different Definitions of Mental Health Care
 * [27:15] Countertransference of a Therapist
 * [34:30] Negative Experiences in Therapy 
 * [37:00] Evaluating Your Treatment

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

 * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

Dr. Fara White

 * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

 * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
 * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Therapy Under Fire

In this podcast episode, George Grombacher, a seasoned finance professional, joins psychiatrists Fara and Grant to explore the psychological dimensions of financial behavior. They discuss how childhood experiences and observed behaviors from adults shape our financial habits, whether we lean towards saving or spending. Grombacher emphasizes the need to confront limiting beliefs about money, drawing parallels between people's discomfort with finances and math. The conversation touches on the impact of trauma on self-care, including financial health, and the importance of designing a life aligned with personal values. Grombacher's journey from a corporate environment to a more creative financial advisory role illustrates the transformative power of addressing one's relationship with money.

Key Takeaways

 * Childhood experiences and observed financial habits shape our approach to money and views on success and relationships.
 * "Doorknob comments" can reveal deep-seated feelings and attitudes towards money.
 * Emotional barriers and negative beliefs about money can hinder financial success.
 * Overcoming financial challenges can improve self-confidence and discipline, impacting overall well-being.
 * Financial self-care is crucial, especially for those with past traumas
 * Money management is about achieving a balance in life, not just in finances

In This Episode:

 * [[01:03] Introduction to George Grombacher
 * [02:10] George’s  background and philosophy
 * [04:37] Negative beliefs about money
 * [05:40] George’s  career journey
 * [07:40] Connection and collaboration
 * [09:21] Financial challenges and seeking help
 * [12:39] Common financial mistakes and debt
 * [16:14] Designing the life you want
 * [17:48] Wealth accumulation and financial mindset
 * [21:10] Balancing present enjoyment and future planning
 * [22:37] The evolution of money personalities
 * [25:47] Intergenerational transmission of trauma
 * [27:09] Understanding limiting beliefs
 * [28:55] Impact of childhood experiences on financial habits
 * [32:20] Psychological aspects of financial decision-making
 * [35:03] Positive spillover effect of financial empowerment
 * [37:12] Seeking mental health support for financial well-being
 * [38:22] Financial success and personal responsibility

Resources and Links

Doorknob Comments

 * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

George Grombacher

 * https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgegrombacher/
 * https://moneyalignmentacademy.com/about-us/

Dr. Fara White

 * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

Dr. Grant Brenner

 * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
 * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

Psychology Money with George Grombacher

Doorknob Comments was named for a phenomenon that sometimes happens at the end of a therapy session, when the patient may mention something important and riddled with conflict, right as you’re walking out the door. Equal parts frustrating and enlightening, it surfaces key issues which may--or may not!-- get addressed anytime soon.