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. 4D AGO

    Don’t Say It 3 Times! Revisiting Beetlejuice, the Cult Classic

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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, depression, identity, and personal struggle, this episode explores why Beetlejuice still resonates decades later. With a mix of nostalgia, pop-culture commentary, and therapist insight, Tanya and Erin also speculate on what a sequel could hold and why characters like Lydia Deetz and Delia Deetz remain so psychologically compelling. Whether you’re revisiting this spooky favorite or watching it through a mental-health lens for the first time, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on a film that’s far deeper than it appears. Tune in for a fun, thoughtful discussion that will make you see Beetlejuice in a whole new way — just don’t say his name three times. 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

    38 min

  2. JAN 21

    That’s My Boy: Adam Sandler, Stupid Humor, and the Effects of Trauma

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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, alongside Todd’s anxiety, rigidity, and intense need to reinvent himself as an adult. Through a mental health lens, we explore how humor often functions as a defense mechanism, how trauma can freeze emotional growth, and why children of chaotic parents often grow into hyper-controlled, anxious adults. Equal parts uncomfortable and revealing, That’s My Boy gives us plenty to laugh at—and even more to clinically side-eye. Education only: This podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health treatment. 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

    59 min

  3. JAN 7

    Man-Child in the Classroom:Billy Madison's Tenure

    Send us a Text Message we would love to hear what you thought of the show. 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 into what “growing up” really means when no one ever required it in the first place. For educational and entertainment purposes only. 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

    55 min

  4. 12/24/2025

    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

  5. 12/17/2025

    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

  6. 12/04/2025

    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

  7. 11/12/2025

    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

  8. 10/29/2025

    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
See All (107)

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
    107
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wicked Psychotherapists
  • Show Website
    Wicked Psychotherapists