Friends with (therapy) Benefits

Elizabeth Carr
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Monthly

Friends with (therapy) benefits is the mental health podcast for people who are self-aware… but still somehow spiraling in the Target parking lot. Hosted by Elizabeth Carr— a licensed professional counselor, this show explores burnout, boundaries, anxiety, identity, relationships, people-pleasing, and what it actually looks like to heal in real life—not just in therapy quotes on Instagram. This isn’t a “10 steps to fix your life” kind of podcast. It’s more like a therapist-informed group chat, poolside conversation, and existential crisis debrief all rolled into one. We talk about the stuff high-achieving women quietly struggle with: why you can explain your patterns but still repeat themwhy rest feels unsafewhy setting boundaries feels like guilt with a calendar invitewhy success doesn’t automatically create self-worthand why being “the strong one” is exhaustingSome episodes are funny. Some are vulnerable. Some feel like the conversation you wish someone would’ve had with you years ago. If you’re trying to become a healthier, more authentic version of yourself—without toxic positivity or pretending to have it all figured out—you’re in the right place. New episodes weekly. Reach out to Elizabeth directly at ecarrlpc@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. S2E2: The Right Support at the Right Time

    Jun 19

    S2E2: The Right Support at the Right Time

    What happens when a therapist and a life coach sit down together and ask, "So... what's actually the difference?" In this episode of Friends with Therapy Benefits, I sit down with Thomas for an honest conversation about therapy, life coaching, personal growth, and the sometimes blurry lines between them. We talk about what each approach does well, where they overlap, where they don't, and how to know what kind of support might be right for you. If you've ever found yourself wondering, "Do I need therapy, coaching, both, or neither?" this episode is for you. We also get into something bigger: learning to trust yourself when you're in the middle of change. Because sometimes the hardest question isn't what everyone else thinks you should do—it's figuring out what you need right now. In this episode: • Therapy vs. life coaching: what's the difference? • Common misconceptions about both professions • When coaching can help—and when therapy may be the better fit • The challenge of making decisions when you're still figuring things out • What growth actually looks like in real life As always, we're not pretending to have it all figured out over here. We're just willing to talk about it honestly. Connect with Elizabeth: Instagram: @elizabethmaecarr TikTok: @elizabethmaecarr Substack: @friendswiththerapybenefits If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and share it with someone who's trying to figure out their next step too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  2. S2E1: I Thought I Had It Figured Out… Then Everything Changed

    May 15

    S2E1: I Thought I Had It Figured Out… Then Everything Changed

    It’s been over a year since the last season of Friends with (Therapy) Benefits… and a lot has changed. In this Season 2 opener, I’m not coming back with a polished “here’s what I learned” recap. I’m coming back in the middle of it. If you’ve ever felt stuck between who you used to be and not quite knowing who you’re becoming… this episode is for you. I share what happened after a major life shift, why I stopped recording, and what it’s actually felt like to lose a sense of identity, self-trust, and clarity—even as a therapist. We get into the pressure of being the “strong one,” the oldest daughter dynamic, and what happens when the version of you that always held everything together… stops working. This episode also introduces a new segment, “With Love, an Oldest Daughter,” where I share real-time insights from therapy that are probably not just about me. If you’re navigating burnout, anxiety, overthinking, people-pleasing, or a life transition that doesn’t have a clear answer yet—you’re not alone in it. ✨ Stay connected ✨Follow along for more real-time thoughts, overthinking, and the messy middle: Instagram, TikTok & Substack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    25 min
  3. The Fear of Being Seen: Why Vulnerability Feels Terrifying (But Necessary)

    02/02/2025

    The Fear of Being Seen: Why Vulnerability Feels Terrifying (But Necessary)

    In the Season 1 finale of Friends with (Therapy) Benefits, we’re getting up close and personal with the fear of being authentic—the messy, vulnerable kind that makes your heart race and your palms sweat. Why is it so hard to be real with people? And why is vulnerability the very thing we need to feel truly connected? Elizabeth reflects on her own journey of unmasking, sharing the raw truth that hit her like a Mack truck: just because she’s a therapist doesn’t mean she’s automatically good at this stuff. From childhood conditioning to generational hustle culture, she unpacks the layers that keep us disconnected from ourselves and others. Plus, Elizabeth opens up about how this podcast started as little love notes to herself, a way to track her growth and, hopefully, help others along the way. You’ll also get practical tips on how to start identifying who you really are, embracing your needs, and letting people actually see you—imperfections and all. And as we say goodbye to Season 1, there’s a heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s listened, reached out, and joined this community. Season 2 is coming summer 2025, with more special guests, banter with Gregory, and—fingers crossed—some of your stories. Follow Elizabeth on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    13 min
  4. The Strength to Stop: Breaking Free from the Superwoman Complex

    11/21/2024

    The Strength to Stop: Breaking Free from the Superwoman Complex

    The Strength to Stop: Breaking Free from the Superwoman Complex In this episode of Friends with (Therapy) Benefits, we’re tackling the cultural expectation to be a “superwoman”—always excelling, always giving, and never pausing. Inspired by Simone Biles’ decision to prioritize her mental health during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, we’ll unpack the damaging effects of the superwoman complex, especially on women of color who face additional layers of societal pressure. We’ll explore the hidden costs of always saying “yes,” the symptoms of burnout, and why rest isn’t the opposite of resilience—it’s part of it. I’ll also share my own struggles with letting go of the “superwoman” mindset, the turning points in my journey, and practical steps to help you prioritize your own mental health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in the cycle of doing it all, this episode will remind you that it’s okay to take off the cape and choose yourself. Topics Discussed: What is the superwoman complex, and how does it show up in our lives?Simone Biles’ story: Redefining strength and resilience.Personal insights on recognizing and overcoming the need to “do it all.”Practical steps to help you prioritize your mental health and create balance. 🎧 Tune in to rediscover what real strength looks like. Subscribe to The Michigan LPC Supervisor's Blog to gain access to this post and downloadable tipsheet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    31 min
  5. Friends with (therapy) Benefits; Therapist Mode PART 2 Boundaries, Breakthroughs, and Presidential Election Feels

    11/18/2024

    Friends with (therapy) Benefits; Therapist Mode PART 2 Boundaries, Breakthroughs, and Presidential Election Feels

    In this episode of Friends with (Therapy) Benefits, Elizabeth and Greg Wright dive into a mental health check-in amidst the emotional turbulence of the 2024 U.S. presidential election (don't worry—no politics, just feelings). They debut two fresh segments: "Am I the A*****e?": A candid look at setting boundaries and asking the tough question—am I in the wrong?"Things Your Therapist Said That Shook You to Your Core": Sharing those jaw-dropping therapist moments that left you changed—and what you did with those insights. Join us for laughter, introspection, and a reminder to check in with yourself. 🎙 Listen to My Podcast: Discover insights and advice tailored for counselors on Friends with (Therapy) Benefits. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. 📬 Subscribe to Stay Updated: Never miss a new blog post or resource! Subscribe to my newsletter and receive exclusive content straight to your inbox. 🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: Join the conversation and follow my business, The Michigan LPC Supervisor, for professional tips and updates. Follow us on LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  6. How to Get the Most Out of Therapy: Find, Connect, and Grow

    11/08/2024

    How to Get the Most Out of Therapy: Find, Connect, and Grow

    Have you ever felt like you’re just watching life pass by, without really connecting to it? This episode dives into practical steps to take the wheel in your therapy journey! Whether you’re new to therapy or have been on this journey for a while, these tips will help you find the right therapist, show up authentically, and get the most out of every session. From researching therapists to trusting your gut, I’ll guide you through creating a therapy experience that’s truly meaningful. Let’s dig into making therapy work for you—wherever you are on the path to growth and healing. Here are 15 essential questions to ask a potential therapist to ensure a good fit: The Michigan LPC Supervisor's Blog; 15 Essential Questions to Ask a New Therapist. #TherapyTips #GetTheMostOutOfTherapy #FindingATherapist #AuthenticSelf #TherapyJourney #MentalHealthSupport #CounselingAdvice #SelfGrowth #TherapyWorks #HealingJourney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    15 min
  7. Helping Others When You Need Help Too: A Counselor’s Journey Through Tough Times

    10/23/2024

    Helping Others When You Need Help Too: A Counselor’s Journey Through Tough Times

    In this episode of Friends with (Therapy) Benefits, Elizabeth opens up about what it’s like to be a therapist while managing personal challenges. From the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic to navigating her own health diagnosis, Elizabeth shares personal stories of trying to balance the role of helping others while needing support herself. Tune in as she reflects on the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and knowing when it’s time for the therapist to seek therapy. Whether you’re a mental health professional or someone balancing work and personal life stress, this episode offers a candid look at the challenges of showing up for others when life feels overwhelming. With a blend of personal insight, humor, and practical advice, Elizabeth reminds us that it's okay to ask for help—even when you're the one people usually turn to for support. Key Takeaways: The Supervisors Blog The unique challenges of being a therapist during the COVID-19 pandemic.How to recognize when it’s time to prioritize your own self-care.Personal stories about navigating life’s toughest moments as a counselor.Tips for setting boundaries and seeking help as a mental health professional.Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    20 min

  8. 10/15/2024

    Friends with (Therapy) Benefits—Therapist Mode PART 1

    Welcome to a new spin-off series of Friends with (Therapy) Benefits—Therapist Mode PART 1! 🎙️ In PART 1 of this 3-part series, I’m joined by my best friend of 25+ years, Gregory Wright, as we get real, personal, and a little bit vulnerable. Part 1 is all about diving into what it’s really like being a therapist and how that shows up in parts of my life that have absolutely nothing to do with therapy. This episode is less about clinical techniques and more about the person behind the therapist—how my experiences, mental health journey, and friendship with Greg have shaped who I am in and out of the therapy room. With a mix of humor, honesty, and a few good roasts from Greg, we dig into how our friendship has helped us grow, how therapy plays a role in both our lives, and how I show up authentically for my clients. Trust me, this is the most relaxed, conversational episode yet, and it’s just the beginning of this series! Tune in for Part 2 next month, where we introduce some fun new segments like "therapist’ing the therapist" and "am I the a*****e here?" You won’t want to miss it! 🎧 Listen now, and don’t forget to send in your topic suggestions or questions for future episodes! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
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About

Friends with (therapy) benefits is the mental health podcast for people who are self-aware… but still somehow spiraling in the Target parking lot. Hosted by Elizabeth Carr— a licensed professional counselor, this show explores burnout, boundaries, anxiety, identity, relationships, people-pleasing, and what it actually looks like to heal in real life—not just in therapy quotes on Instagram. This isn’t a “10 steps to fix your life” kind of podcast. It’s more like a therapist-informed group chat, poolside conversation, and existential crisis debrief all rolled into one. We talk about the stuff high-achieving women quietly struggle with: why you can explain your patterns but still repeat themwhy rest feels unsafewhy setting boundaries feels like guilt with a calendar invitewhy success doesn’t automatically create self-worthand why being “the strong one” is exhaustingSome episodes are funny. Some are vulnerable. Some feel like the conversation you wish someone would’ve had with you years ago. If you’re trying to become a healthier, more authentic version of yourself—without toxic positivity or pretending to have it all figured out—you’re in the right place. New episodes weekly. Reach out to Elizabeth directly at ecarrlpc@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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