Cocktail Therapy

Michael Ashenfelter, LPC-S & Michael Leach, PhD

Cocktail Therapy is a refreshing blend of humor, depth, and practical advice as two experienced therapists explore the intricacies of relationships, attachment theory, and pop culture over crafted cocktails. Each episode unpacks attachment theory in a fun, relatable way—mixing expert insights with pop culture references to make complex psychology accessible. Through lively conversations, real-life case studies, and actionable advice, Cocktail Therapy helps listeners deepen their understanding of relationships and personal growth. Whether you’re a therapist, a psychology enthusiast, or just curious about what makes relationships tick, grab a drink and join us as we shake up the worlds of mixology, attachment science, and pop culture. Cheers!

  1. ٦ يناير

    Navigating Dinner Table Chaos | The Bear S02E06 Fishes

    Dinner can be a battlefield when disorganized attachment takes the lead. In this episode, the hosts explore The Bear, Season 2, Episode 6, "Fishes," breaking down the intense family dynamics and survival strategies at play. From Donna’s erratic cycles of connection and withdrawal to Carmi’s dismissive calm and Sugar’s anxious attempts to help, this episode is a masterclass in attachment theory. They also reflect on how the dinner table becomes a crucible for unresolved trauma and explore the broader implications of disorganized attachment for relationships and healing. Whether you’re drawn to the chaos or find it overwhelming, this conversation offers profound insights into the ways attachment affects us all. 00:00 - Introduction Setting the stage for a deep dive into The Bear’s most intense episode.02:15 - What’s “Fishes” About? Recap of Episode 6 and why it stands out in the series.05:30 - Dinner Table Chaos and Binds The dynamics of disorganized attachment: Donna’s erratic behavior and its impact.12:48 - Sugar’s Anxious Coping Sugar’s attempts to control the situation and seek safety through connection.17:22 - Carmi’s Dismissive Strategies Carmi’s flat calm and avoidance as his way of managing family chaos.22:10 - Donna’s Cycles of Connection and Withdrawal Examining Donna’s unpredictable behavior and the fear it evokes.27:40 - Trauma Passed Down: Generational Attachment How attachment classifications are inherited and how families stay trapped in patterns.32:05 - The Dinner Table as a Symbol of Survival The painful interplay of fear, love, and unresolved trauma at the family gathering.38:18 - Healing is Possible Reflections on the hard but hopeful work of breaking generational cycles.42:00 - Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead Closing thoughts and a preview of the next episode.

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    Growth Through Reflection and Play | The Bear S02E05 Pop!

    What does it look like when characters begin to grow into themselves and their relationships? In this podcast episode, the hosts unpack The Bear, Season 2, Episode 5, "Pop!", focusing on Tina’s newfound confidence and vulnerability alongside Carmi’s tentative steps toward emotional transparency. Tina shines in moments of connection with others, from her level-headed calm in chaos to her courage on the karaoke stage. Meanwhile, Carmi’s developing relationship with Claire showcases his attempts to navigate openness and intimacy while still struggling with unresolved dynamics in his partnership with Sidney. The conversation balances attachment theory insights with playful banter, all while teasing the emotional storm ahead in Episode 6. 00:01 - Setting the Stage Introduction to the series themes, spoiler disclaimers, and excitement for Episode 6 on the horizon. 03:20 - Why "Pop!"? Theories on the Episode Title Speculations on the meaning behind "Pop!"—from soda references to foreshadowing breakthroughs. 07:45 - Tina’s Transformation in Chaos Tina’s emotional growth shines as she remains calm, direct, and collaborative in challenging situations. 12:33 - Karaoke Night and Belonging Tina takes an emotional risk by singing at karaoke, symbolizing her courage to embrace community. 18:10 - Carmi’s Steps Toward Vulnerability A look at Carmi’s playful connection with Claire and his monologue on risk-taking and reflection. 23:50 - Reflective Dialogue: Carmi and Claire How Carmi and Claire’s conversations model secure attachment and mutual understanding. 30:22 - The Tension with Sidney The repeated misattunements between Carmi and Sidney and the growing relational divide. 37:05 - Anticipating "Fishes" Wrapping up with reflections on attachment in "Pop!" and gearing up for the intense, buzz-worthy Episode 6.

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حول

Cocktail Therapy is a refreshing blend of humor, depth, and practical advice as two experienced therapists explore the intricacies of relationships, attachment theory, and pop culture over crafted cocktails. Each episode unpacks attachment theory in a fun, relatable way—mixing expert insights with pop culture references to make complex psychology accessible. Through lively conversations, real-life case studies, and actionable advice, Cocktail Therapy helps listeners deepen their understanding of relationships and personal growth. Whether you’re a therapist, a psychology enthusiast, or just curious about what makes relationships tick, grab a drink and join us as we shake up the worlds of mixology, attachment science, and pop culture. Cheers!