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. 7H AGO

    The Psychology of Hallmark Movies: Why We Keep Coming Back for Comfort, Predictability, and Hope

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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 nervous systemHow Hallmark movies function as emotional regulation and stress reliefThe role of nostalgia, attachment, and hope in comfort viewingWhy people often reach for these movies during times of anxiety, grief, or burnoutWhether you love Hallmark movies, love to hate them, or secretly watch them when no one’s looking, this episode explores why they resonate on such a psychological level—and what that says about our need for connection and safety. ✨ Re-released by popular demand, because comfort content always deserves a comeback. 👉 Find us here: https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists 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

    30 min

  2. DEC 17

    Stand By Me (1986): Why This Coming-of-Age Story Still Hurts (in the Best Way)

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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’Connell, and why these characters still feel so real decades later. Tanya and Erin also reflect on the film’s origins as a Stephen King novella and how Rob Reiner’s thoughtful direction helped transform a simple coming-of-age story into a lasting cultural touchstone—one that speaks to anyone who has ever navigated loss, loyalty, or the bittersweet transition from childhood to adulthood. Whether you’re returning to Stand By Me or discovering it with fresh eyes, this episode offers insight, nostalgia, and a deeper look at why stories about connection—and the friends who shape us—never truly leave us. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Explore all things Wicked Psychotherapists: https://linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists 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

    33 min

  3. DEC 4

    Why Adam Sandler Movies Work: The Psychology of Grown Ups 2

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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 differently by your kids, the weird grief of losing youth while trying to keep the fun alive, and why Sandler’s pack-mentality friendships feel like chosen family across decades. There’s Taylor Lautner wolf-pack chaos, questionable quarry decisions, the sacredness of small-town traditions, and yes — we talk Steve Buscemi, because how could we not? If you grew up with Adam Sandler, or you’re curious how comedy becomes identity as we age, this episode is your tribe. 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

    43 min

  4. NOV 12

    Stay Gold: The Psychology of Belonging and Survival in The Outsiders

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health treatment. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a licensed professional in your area. 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

    49 min

  5. OCT 29

    Good, Evil, and Daddy Issues: A Little Nicky Therapy Session

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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 more than just a goofy comedy.  Laugh, reflect, and maybe even rethink your own family chaos along the way. 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. 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

    35 min

  6. OCT 15

    Hubie Halloween-Protecting Salem one Thermos at a Time

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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 answer this week’s question: 🧛‍♀️ Would you rather be a vampire or a werewolf? (No surprise here — we both went full vampire.) So grab your pumpkin coffee and your multi-tool thermos, and join us for a mix of humor, insight, and a whole lot of Halloween fun! 👉 Listen, laugh, and get a little therapeutic at linktr.ee/thewickedpsychotherapists 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. 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

    26 min

  7. OCT 1

    Breast Cancer: A Psychotherapist's Story

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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. 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

    34 min

  8. SEP 24

    High School & Beyond: How Those Years Shape Us as Adults (Re-Release)

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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 trauma. Follow us on Instagram @WickedPsychotherapists. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen to podcasts. 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

    35 min
See All (104)

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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Wicked Psychotherapists
  • Show Website
    Wicked Psychotherapists