The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show

Dr. Sarah Hensley

The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show explores the science of human behavior, relationships, and the emotional patterns shaping our lives that most of us don't even realize exist. Because once you see the pattern, you can finally change it. Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, social psychologist and leading expert in attachment science, alongside co-host Raina Butcher, each episode translates complex psychological research into practical, everyday insights. Together, they explore the hidden forces that influence how we love, communicate, parent, lead, navigate conflict, regulate emotions, build resilience, and create lasting change. Whether you're trying to understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, heal from a breakup, become a more effective partner, parent or leader, or simply make sense of the people around you, you'll gain evidence-based tools and practical strategies grounded in psychology, attachment science, and human behavior Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  1. 1d ago

    What IS a Narcissist? Key Traits & Relationship Patterns | Part 1

    What is a narcissist—and how does narcissism differ from insecure attachment? In the first episode of a three-part series on narcissism, Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher explore narcissistic traits, the differences between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism, and the patterns that can emerge in relationships. From entitlement and the need for admiration to manipulation, gaslighting, and control, Sarah explains the psychology behind these behaviors. Together, the hosts discuss the narcissistic abuse cycle—idealization, devaluation, discard, and hoovering—and how intermittent reinforcement can keep people caught in a trauma bond. Combining psychological research with personal experiences, this conversation lays the foundation for understanding narcissism, recognizing harmful relationship patterns, and making sense of experiences that leave you questioning yourself. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  2. Sep 29

    Fearful Avoidant + Fearful Avoidant: Why They Connect Deeply and Fight Hard

    Can two fearful avoidants make a relationship work? When both partners have fearful avoidant attachment, the connection can feel unusually deep—until conflict triggers an intense fight, a sudden shutdown, or a reversal of who is chasing whom. In newest episode, Dr. Sarah and Raina explain the fearful avoidant–fearful avoidant (FA–FA) relationship cycle. They discuss why these partners often feel so understood at first, how fear of betrayal can turn a disagreement into a painful fight, and how this pattern differs from a fearful avoidant–dismissive avoidant relationship. You’ll also hear why understanding your partner’s perspective does not mean agreeing with it, and how recognizing the cycle can help couples repair conflict and build a more secure connection. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  3. Sep 22

    Fearful Avoidant + Dismissive Avoidant: The Most Painful Relationship Dynamic

    Why are fearful-avoidant and dismissive-avoidant partners so magnetically attracted to each other—only to become trapped in criticism, withdrawal, resentment, and disconnection? In this episode, Dr. Sarah Hensley breaks down the fearful-avoidant/dismissive-avoidant relationship dynamic and explains how couples can interrupt the painful push-pull cycle before it destroys their relationship. You’ll learn: -Why fearful and dismissive avoidants are intensely attracted to each other -How the honeymoon phase turns into a pursue-withdraw conflict cycle -Why dismissive avoidants shut down—and why that activates fearful avoidants -How criticism, emotional flooding, defensiveness, and unresolved conflict create resentment -The dating red flags associated with both attachment styles -Why conventional couples therapy can sometimes make this dynamic worse -How neutral communication, emotional processing, mentalization, boundaries, and structured conflict repair can help -Whether one partner can become the secure anchor and change the relationship Dr. Hensley also shares a real-life conflict-repair example and explains why lasting regulation requires processing your emotions—not simply forcing yourself to calm down. Whether you identify as fearful avoidant, dismissive avoidant, emotionally unavailable, or simply feel stuck in a push-pull relationship, this episode offers practical insight into understanding your attachment patterns, resolving conflict, and building a more secure connection. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  4. Sep 15

    Attachment Styles & Relationships: Q&A with Dr. Sarah Hensley

    Dr. Sarah Hensley answers your questions about attachment styles and relationships in this audience-led Q&A. Join Sarah and Raina as they explore real-life relationship concerns through the lens of attachment science, offering perspectives on understanding yourself and your connections with others. Questions were submitted by members of the Dr. Sarah Hensley Clients and Community Facebook group—making this episode a conversation driven by the experiences and concerns of the community. If you aren’t yet part of the free, private Dr. Sarah Hensley Clients & Community Facebook group, now is the perfect time to join. It’s a supportive, attachment informed space where you can ask questions anonymously, connect with others on a similar healing path, and receive guidance rooted in science and compassion. ➡️ Join the group here. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FV8YUfrfG/ Dr. Hensley will continue pulling from your submissions to feature your biggest questions on the podcast—because your growth, your clarity, and your healing matter here. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  5. Sep 8

    Beyond Attachment Quizzes: A First Look at Our New Relationship Tool

    Something new is in the works at Dr. Sarah Hensley Relationship Coaching Services—and in this episode, Dr. Sarah Hensley and Raina are giving you the first sneak peek.  For months, the team has been developing a new project designed to take Dr. Hensley’s relationship coaching and attachment science to an entirely new level. We can’t reveal everything just yet, but here’s what we can share. Imagine having Dr. Hensley’s coaching framework and relationship tools in one place—along with the ability to assess your attachment patterns using scientifically grounded data, track your own progress over time, and even begin measuring changes within your relationship and partner dynamic. Instead of another online attachment style “quiz” that gives you a label and sends you on your way, this project is being built around real relationship science, measurable progress, and actual behavior change. In this episode, Dr. Hensley and Raina pull back the curtain on: • The new project currently being developed behind the scenes • Why Dr. Hensley wanted to create something beyond traditional attachment quizzes • How attachment and relationship progress could actually be measured over time • The possibility of tracking progress for both you and your partner • How Dr. Hensley’s coaching program and tools will fit into the experience • The bigger vision for where relationship coaching—and relationship science—could go next There’s still a lot we can't share yet. But this is your first look at what’s coming next. Subscribe to The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show to follow the project as it develops and be among the first to hear what’s coming. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  6. Sep 1

    The Science of Attachment: How It Predicts Who You Love & How You Love

    Why are you attracted to certain people? Why do some relationships make you feel secure while others trigger anxiety, distance, or fear? And why do the same relationship patterns seem to repeat—even when the person changes? The answer may be found in your attachment system. In this episode of The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show, Dr. Sarah Hensley breaks down the science of attachment in a way that’s easy to understand—and explains just how much your attachment style can predict about your intimate relationships. Dr. Hensley explores how attachment influences who you choose as a partner, what you’re attracted to, how you experience emotional intimacy, how you respond to conflict and disconnection, and the behaviors that emerge when your attachment system is activated. You’ll learn attachment styles—secure, anxious preoccupied, dismissive avoidant, and fearful avoidant—can experience the exact same relationship very differently, and why understanding your attachment style goes far beyond simply giving yourself a label. Attachment isn’t just about how you behave in relationships. It’s an operating system influencing how you interpret, experience, and respond to love. If you’ve ever wondered “Why do I keep choosing the same type of person?” “Why do I react this way in relationships?” or “Why does my partner respond so differently than I do?”—this episode will help you begin connecting the dots. 🎙️ The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show explores the science behind love, attachment, attraction, relationships, and human behavior. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  7. Aug 25

    Inside the Lindsay Clancy Case: A Forensic Psychologist Weighs In | Dr. Leslie Dobson

    In this episode of The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show, Dr. Sarah Hensley and Raina Butcher are joined by Dr. Leslie Dobson, a forensic clinical psychologist, speaker, and author, for an in-depth discussion of the Lindsay Clancy case—a case that has raised difficult questions about mental health, postpartum psychiatric disorders, criminal responsibility, memory, and intent. Bringing both a psychological and forensic perspective to the conversation, Dr. Dobson helps Dr. Sarah and Raina examine the known details surrounding the case and explore some of its most complicated questions. What role could severe postpartum mental illness have played? What happens to memory during a psychotic episode? How do forensic psychologists evaluate a person’s mental state at the time of an alleged crime? And how do clinicians distinguish between psychological explanations and legal responsibility? Together, they discuss postpartum psychosis, dissociation, memory impairment, competency, criminal responsibility, and the psychological factors forensic experts consider when evaluating cases like this one. They also examine aspects of the Lindsay Clancy case that remain difficult to reconcile and why understanding someone’s psychological state can be far more complicated than labeling their actions as simply rational or irrational. This conversation is not about reaching a verdict. It’s about looking beyond headlines and social media commentary to better understand the psychology, forensic considerations, and unanswered questions surrounding an extraordinarily complex and tragic case.In this episode: The psychology behind the Lindsay Clancy casePostpartum depression vs. postpartum psychosisHow psychosis can affect perception, behavior, and memoryWhat a forensic psychological evaluation actually examinesMental illness, intent, and criminal responsibilityWhy memory loss can occur during severe psychiatric episodesThe details of the case that raise difficult psychological questionsHow experts evaluate whether behavior is consistent with a claimed mental stateThe limitations of analyzing a case without personally evaluating the defendantDisclaimer: This episode is for educational and informational purposes only. The discussion is based on publicly available information, and none of the hosts or guests are providing a formal psychological or forensic evaluation of Lindsay Clancy. Content Warning: This episode discusses child deaths, alleged homicide, suicide attempt, and severe postpartum mental health issues. *We apologize for technical difficulties resulting in lower quality audio in this episode. We'll have the bugs worked out for next time! Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

  8. Aug 18

    Breaking Down the Lindsay Clancy Case: The Psychology Behind the Tragedy

    Dr. Sarah Hensley takes a psychological look at the Lindsay Clancy case, examining the complex questions surrounding postpartum mental health, psychotic episodes, memory, and criminal responsibility. What happens to the brain during a psychotic episode? Can someone experience psychosis and later have little or no memory of what occurred? And how might severe postpartum psychiatric symptoms affect a person’s perception of reality, decision-making, and behavior? Drawing on her background in psychology, Dr. Hensley breaks down the psychological concepts relevant to the case while also examining details that raise difficult questions. She discusses postpartum psychosis, memory disruption during psychotic episodes, altered states of reality, and the distinction between understanding a psychological explanation and excusing a horrific act. Dr. Hensley also explores aspects of the Lindsay Clancy case that, from a psychological perspective, don’t seem to fit neatly together—and why those inconsistencies matter when trying to understand what may have happened.In this episode, we discuss: The psychology of psychotic episodesWhether psychosis can affect or disrupt memoryPostpartum psychosis and other serious postpartum mental health concernsHow someone’s perception of reality can change during severe psychiatric episodesThe psychological questions surrounding the Lindsay Clancy caseDetails of the case that are difficult to reconcileThe difference between psychological explanation, legal responsibility, and accountabilityThis is a nuanced discussion of an incredibly tragic case involving the deaths of three children. Our goal is not to diagnose Lindsay Clancy or determine guilt or innocence, but to explore the psychology relevant to the case and the questions it raises. Content Warning: This episode discusses child deaths, alleged homicide, suicide attempt, and severe postpartum mental health issues. Tune in every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media. Patreon link: patreon.com/TheDrSarahHensleyShow Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/group-coaching Individual Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach/ Couples Coaching: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/pick-your-coach-couples/. Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://doctorsarahhensley.com/courses/ Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy. Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity. We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

4.5
out of 5
260 Ratings

About

The Dr. Sarah Hensley Show explores the science of human behavior, relationships, and the emotional patterns shaping our lives that most of us don't even realize exist. Because once you see the pattern, you can finally change it. Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, social psychologist and leading expert in attachment science, alongside co-host Raina Butcher, each episode translates complex psychological research into practical, everyday insights. Together, they explore the hidden forces that influence how we love, communicate, parent, lead, navigate conflict, regulate emotions, build resilience, and create lasting change. Whether you're trying to understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, heal from a breakup, become a more effective partner, parent or leader, or simply make sense of the people around you, you'll gain evidence-based tools and practical strategies grounded in psychology, attachment science, and human behavior Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-dr-sarah-hensley-show--6390558/support.

You Might Also Like