Wicked Psychotherapists

Tanya & Erin
  • 4.9 (12)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

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 to Adam Sandler. Yes, we said it. From revisiting old favorites to analyzing newer Sandler movies—and exploring the six degrees of separation of Adam Sandler—this podcast blends humor, nostalgia, and psychological insight in a way that’s smart, entertaining, and refreshingly real. Whether you’re comfort-watching a childhood favorite, bingeing something new, or wondering why a goofy comedy hit you right in the feelings, we’re here to help you connect the dots between what you watch and how you feel. Expect: Candid therapy talk with heart and humorPop culture deep dives with a mental health lens’80s, ’90s, and today’s movies and shows (yes, including lots of Adam Sandler)A dose of nostalgia, a dash of sass, and a lot of wisdom🎙️ New episodes every Wednesday. 💬 Don’t forget to leave a review, share with your people, and follow us on Instagram and YouTube @WickedPsychotherapists. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional therapy or mental health care, and listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Stay Wicked… and keep your mind well.

  1. Sep 30

    Q&A with Erin & Tanya: You Asked, We Answered | Re-Release

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. We’re bringing this listener-favorite Q&A episode back for a re-release! Join Erin and Tanya of The Wicked Psychotherapists as they answer questions submitted by listeners and dive into a wide range of topics involving mental health, relationships, personal growth, self-improvement, and the wonderfully messy stuff that comes with being human. This episode is candid, conversational, and unscripted—because sometimes the most interesting conversations happen when you don’t know exactly where the question is going to take you. From personal experiences and everyday struggles to bigger psychological questions, Erin and Tanya share their perspectives as psychotherapists while keeping the conversation real, relatable, and occasionally a little wicked. Whether you’re hearing this episode for the first time or listening again, we hope you enjoy this throwback conversation with Erin and Tanya! A quick reminder: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for individual psychotherapy, mental health treatment, medical advice, diagnosis, or professional consultation. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not constitute a therapist-client relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis, please contact a qualified professional or your local emergency/crisis service. 🎧 Subscribe to The Wicked Psychotherapists on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review if you enjoy the episode. Your support helps us connect with more listeners who love talking about psychology, mental health, and what makes people tick! Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  2. Sep 23

    Jay Kelly's Hidden Crisis – Fame, Family, and an Empty Life

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. What if the real horror story is a life spent performing so well that you disappear from your own relationships?  Tanya and Erin unpack Jay Kelly, the Netflix film starring George Clooney and Adam Sandler, and turn its glossy Hollywood surface into a brutally honest conversation about identity, success, and emotional emptiness. What starts as a movie review quickly becomes a sharp psychological reading of Jay Kelly's world—from the loneliness behind the A-list persona to the ache of being seen by a parent who never truly sees you.  Tanya and Erin connect the film's symbolism to real-life questions about authenticity, self-worth, and the cost of chasing approval. You'll discover:  Why George Clooney's casting makes the character's emptiness hit even harderHow Adam Sandler's Ron becomes the grounded emotional counterweight the story needsThe difference between genuine connection and transactional relationshipsWhy Jay's dynamic with his father and daughters feels so painfully familia How the film mirrors the way many of us split ourselves into different “characters” at work, home, and everywhere in between Tanya and Erin also dig into the deeper existential thread running through the film—the idea that talent, charm, and fame do not always equal fulfillment, and that some people can climb all the way to the top while losing touch with who they really are. If you've ever wondered why the most visible people can seem the most lost, this conversation will hit home.By the end, the episode becomes less about one movie and more about a universal question: if your life played back on a screen, would you recognize yourself?  Essential listening if you love film talk with a psychological edge, honest takes on fame and family, and conversations that leave you thinking long after the credits roll. Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  3. Aug 26

    Sandy Wexler: The Lies We Tell to Feel Enough

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. Tanya and Erin dive into Adam Sandler's Sandy Wexler (2017) — a loosely-autobiographical tribute to Sandler's real-life manager, played as a lovable, compulsive liar trying to hold his career and relationships together with exaggeration and charm.  Beneath the 90s nostalgia and stacked celebrity cameos, the hosts unpack what's really going on with Sandy: isolation, fear of not being "enough," and a pattern of performing confidence instead of feeling it. The conversation turns into a broader discussion about imposter syndrome — something the hosts see constantly in their work as therapists, and in themselves.  Plus: a bonus round on which celebrity each host would want as a real-life friend. Stay Wicked. And keep your mind well. Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  4. Jul 29

    Adam Sandler's Pixels: What Video Games Can Teach Us About Life

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. This week we're continuing our Adam Sandler movie series with Pixels (2015)—and this episode is extra special because Erin's son, Jayden, joins us as our guest co-host! Having watched Pixels more times than we can count, Jayden brings observations that surprised even us. Together we explore why this movie is more than just giant Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and classic arcade nostalgia. We discuss: 🎮 Why Pixels still holds up today👾 The psychology of competition vs. having fun🤝 Friendship, teamwork, and belonging🧠 What gaming teaches us about resilience and problem-solving😂 Our favorite Adam Sandler moments🕹️ How arcades brought people together before online gaming🌍 Which video game we'd choose if we had to save the world!Jayden also shares some thoughtful insights about playing fairly, why cheating ultimately backfires, and how video games have changed from one generation to the next. Whether you grew up feeding quarters into arcade machines or you've only discovered these games through movies like Pixels, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, psychology, and a fun family conversation. Question of the Week: If you had to save the world by entering one video game...which game would you choose? Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  5. Jul 8

    The Wedding Singer: Why Adam Sandler's Sweetest Character Still Resonates

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 🎙️ Originally released in January, we're bringing this fan-favorite episode back at the perfect time! With Adam Sandler making headlines again, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to revisit one of his most beloved films: The Wedding Singer (1998). Is Robbie Hart simply a goofy wedding singer, or is he actually one of Adam Sandler's most emotionally intelligent and lovable characters? In this episode, licensed psychotherapists Erin Gray and Tanya revisit The Wedding Singer through a psychology lens, exploring emotional regulation, attachment, grief, self-worth, healthy relationships, and why this classic '90s comedy continues to resonate nearly three decades later. We also discuss: Adam Sandler's evolution as an actorRobbie Hart's emotional sensitivity and resilienceJulia's struggles with self-esteem and unhealthy relationshipsThe psychology behind finding purpose and meaningful workWhy kindness is often mistaken for weaknessThe unforgettable supporting cast, including Steve Buscemi, Billy Idol, and Drew BarrymoreOur fun "food barter" challenge question at the end!Whether you're an Adam Sandler fan, love psychological movie analysis, or simply enjoy revisiting classic '90s films, this episode blends humor, nostalgia, and meaningful conversation. 💬 Join the conversation! What's your favorite moment from The Wedding Singer? Do you think Robbie Hart is Adam Sandler's sweetest character? Let us know in the comments! ⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves movies, psychology, or both! Connect with Wicked Psychotherapists: 🌐 https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com 🔗 https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Disclaimer: The Wicked Psychotherapists podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, mental health treatment, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  6. Jul 1

    The Hidden Psychology of Adam Sandler's Spaceman

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. This week on Wicked Psychotherapists, we're diving into Adam Sandler's Spaceman and exploring the hidden psychology behind one of his most thought-provoking performances. At first, we weren't quite sure what to expect from this quiet sci-fi film, but it quickly became a fascinating look at loneliness, emotional isolation, unresolved trauma, grief, attachment, and the importance of human connection. We discuss Jakob's emotional journey, Hanush's surprising role as an unlikely therapist, and how the movie reflects struggles we often see with clients in real life. We also talk about the symbolism throughout the film, why relationships can suffer when we disconnect from ourselves, and why healing often begins by allowing someone else to truly see us. Along the way, we admit the parts that completely confused us, laugh about Adam Sandler's signature basketball shorts, wonder where Steve Buscemi was hiding, and finish with one of our signature fun questions. Have you seen Spaceman? We'd love to hear your interpretation of the movie and what you think we may have missed! 🎙️ Wicked Psychotherapists is where two licensed psychotherapists explore movies, television, and pop culture through a mental health lens—with insight, curiosity, and plenty of laughs. Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  7. Jun 10

    You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah: Why Middle School Still Haunts Us

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. This week, Erin and Tanya discuss Netflix's You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah and find themselves unexpectedly transported back to the awkward, confusing, and sometimes painful years of crushes, friendship drama, embarrassing moments, and trying desperately to fit in. From Stacy's obsession with the "cool" soccer player to friendship betrayals, social status, and learning how to take accountability for your actions, the movie does a surprisingly good job capturing what it feels like to be 13.  The conversation also explores people-pleasing, repairing friendships after trust is broken, social media's impact on today's kids, and why so many adults still carry middle school wounds decades later.  Along the way, Erin and Tanya share stories from their own adolescent years, debate Bat Mitzvah themes, and wonder why every town seemed to have that one older guy hanging around teenage parties. Whether you loved middle school, hated it, or blocked most of it from your memory, this episode is a funny and thoughtful look at growing up, making mistakes, and learning that being mature sometimes means admitting when you're wrong. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, mental health treatment, or professional advice. Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

  8. May 27

    The Cobbler Is Way Deeper Than We Expected!

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. In this episode of Wicked Psychotherapists, we dive into the surprisingly layered Adam Sandler film The Cobbler — a movie that didn’t exactly win over critics, but absolutely won over us. What starts as a quirky, magical-realism story about a cobbler who can literally become other people by wearing their shoes quickly turns into something deeper: identity, loneliness, generational patterns, grief, and what it means to finally step outside your own life long enough to really see someone else. We talk about Max’s emotional isolation, family legacy, hidden trauma, and those subtle “wait… that’s actually profound” moments that sneak up on you in this film. Plus, yes—we get into pickles, Steve Buscemi appreciation, and why this movie hits way harder than its Rotten Tomatoes score would suggest. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your own story or wondered what life looks like from the inside of someone else’s world… this one’s for you. Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedpsychotherapists/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wickedpodcasts/ Linktre.ee :  https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists Website :  https://www.wickedpsychotherapists.com Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@Wickedpsychotherapists

See All (123)

4.9
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

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 to Adam Sandler. Yes, we said it. From revisiting old favorites to analyzing newer Sandler movies—and exploring the six degrees of separation of Adam Sandler—this podcast blends humor, nostalgia, and psychological insight in a way that’s smart, entertaining, and refreshingly real. Whether you’re comfort-watching a childhood favorite, bingeing something new, or wondering why a goofy comedy hit you right in the feelings, we’re here to help you connect the dots between what you watch and how you feel. Expect: Candid therapy talk with heart and humorPop culture deep dives with a mental health lens’80s, ’90s, and today’s movies and shows (yes, including lots of Adam Sandler)A dose of nostalgia, a dash of sass, and a lot of wisdom🎙️ New episodes every Wednesday. 💬 Don’t forget to leave a review, share with your people, and follow us on Instagram and YouTube @WickedPsychotherapists. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional therapy or mental health care, and listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Stay Wicked… and keep your mind well.

Information

  • Creator
    Tanya & Erin
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    123
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wicked Psychotherapists
  • Show Website
    Wicked Psychotherapists