67 episodes

Doorknob Comments was named for a phenomenon that sometimes happens at the end of a therapy session, when the patient may mention something important and riddled with conflict, right as you’re walking out the door. Equal parts frustrating and enlightening, it surfaces key issues which may--or may not!-- get addressed anytime soon.

Doorknob Comments Dr. Fara White & Dr. Grant Brenner

    • Health & Fitness
    • 5.0 • 21 Ratings

Doorknob Comments was named for a phenomenon that sometimes happens at the end of a therapy session, when the patient may mention something important and riddled with conflict, right as you’re walking out the door. Equal parts frustrating and enlightening, it surfaces key issues which may--or may not!-- get addressed anytime soon.

    Psychology Money with George Grombacher

    Psychology Money with George Grombacher

    In this podcast episode, George Grombacher, a seasoned finance professional, joins psychiatrists Fara and Grant to explore the psychological dimensions of financial behavior. They discuss how childhood experiences and observed behaviors from adults shape our financial habits, whether we lean towards saving or spending. Grombacher emphasizes the need to confront limiting beliefs about money, drawing parallels between people's discomfort with finances and math. The conversation touches on the impact of trauma on self-care, including financial health, and the importance of designing a life aligned with personal values. Grombacher's journey from a corporate environment to a more creative financial advisory role illustrates the transformative power of addressing one's relationship with money.

    Key Takeaways

    * Childhood experiences and observed financial habits shape our approach to money and views on success and relationships.
    * "Doorknob comments" can reveal deep-seated feelings and attitudes towards money.
    * Emotional barriers and negative beliefs about money can hinder financial success.
    * Overcoming financial challenges can improve self-confidence and discipline, impacting overall well-being.
    * Financial self-care is crucial, especially for those with past traumas
    * Money management is about achieving a balance in life, not just in finances

    In This Episode:

    * [[01:03] Introduction to George Grombacher
    * [02:10] George's  background and philosophy
    * [04:37] Negative beliefs about money
    * [05:40] George's  career journey
    * [07:40] Connection and collaboration
    * [09:21] Financial challenges and seeking help
    * [12:39] Common financial mistakes and debt
    * [16:14] Designing the life you want
    * [17:48] Wealth accumulation and financial mindset
    * [21:10] Balancing present enjoyment and future planning
    * [22:37] The evolution of money personalities
    * [25:47] Intergenerational transmission of trauma
    * [27:09] Understanding limiting beliefs
    * [28:55] Impact of childhood experiences on financial habits
    * [32:20] Psychological aspects of financial decision-making
    * [35:03] Positive spillover effect of financial empowerment
    * [37:12] Seeking mental health support for financial well-being
    * [38:22] Financial success and personal responsibility

    Resources and Links

    Doorknob Comments

    * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

    George Grombacher

    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgegrombacher/
    * https://moneyalignmentacademy.com/about-us/

    Dr. Fara White

    * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

    Dr. Grant Brenner

    * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

    • 39 min
    Where Do Doorknob Comments Come From?

    Where Do Doorknob Comments Come From?

    Join hosts Fara and Grant on the latest Doorknob Comments podcast episode, where they delve into the intricate dynamics shaping the therapist-client relationship. They dissect the subtleties of this bond, emphasizing its profound impact on therapy efficacy. Ethical dilemmas like confidentiality and intervention in client danger are explored, alongside the significance of self-awareness and transparent communication. The episode navigates the therapist's role in addressing risk behaviors and physical health, while tackling challenges posed by clients with trauma or depression. The paramount importance of prioritizing client well-being resonates throughout the discussion.

    P.S. Remember, therapy is a journey we take together, and every step reveals new horizons. Let's discover them together. Tune in now and let's continue the conversation.

    Key Takeaways

    * Dynamics of the therapeutic relationship
    * Ethical considerations: confidentiality, intervention
    * Client autonomy and decision-making empowerment
    * Potential pitfalls of therapist self-disclosure
    * Addressing unspoken and unconscious aspects of therapy

    Resources and Links

    Doorknob Comments

    * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

    Dr. Fara White

    * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

    Dr. Grant Brenner

    * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

    • 42 min
    Spring Romance

    Spring Romance

    Tune in to the latest episode of the Doorknob Comments podcast, where hosts Fara and Grant take a candid dive into the intricate world of love and dating, perfectly timed for the approaching Valentine's Day. From dissecting the dynamics of romantic relationships to scrutinizing the impact of social media on our perceptions of love, they leave no stone unturned. Drawing parallels from the relationships of celebrities like Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, they shed light on the societal pressures to find "the one."

    But amidst the age-old topics, they bring a refreshing perspective, discussing the fascinating psychological concept of "doorknob comments" and advocating for personal growth and self-acceptance. With insights from therapists, they provide practical advice that listeners can implement in their own lives.

    Join Fara and Grant as they navigate through the complexities of love and relationships, offering a blend of wisdom, humor, and relatability that is sure to resonate with audiences.

    Key Takeaways

    * Societal norms often create unrealistic relationship expectations.
    * Establishing personal boundaries is essential in the face of external pressures.
    * Social media tends to portray idealized relationships, distorting individual expectations.
    * Understanding empirical findings on relationships can provide valuable insights.
    * Celebrity relationship narratives may inadvertently influence personal relationship views.
    * Effective communication, trust, respect, and mutual growth are cornerstones of healthy relationships.
    * The phenomenon of "doorknob comments" highlights the challenge of expressing deep emotions and the stigma attached to singlehood.

    In This Episode:

    * [00:00:00] Understanding our needs
    * [00:01:11] Romance and dating
    * [00:02:21] Occupational hazards of therapy
    * [00:04:07] Impact of social media on relationships
    * [00:20:37] Core features of romantic relationships
    * [00:22:46] Responsive Dating
    * [00:24:02] Love Bombing and Authenticity
    * [00:27:36] Pacing and Mutual Needs
    * [00:35:10] Communication and Relationship Dynamics
    * [00:37:18] Openness and Growth

    Resources and Links

    Doorknob Comments

    * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

    Dr. Fara White

    * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

    Dr. Grant Brenner

    * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

    • 45 min
    Intercultural Relationships

    Intercultural Relationships

    Join Fara and Grant on the latest episode of the Doorknob Comments podcast as they dive deep into the beautiful complexities of intercultural marriage. Le like to think that love knows no borders, but what about the hurdles that come with actually making it work? Together, they explore the ups and downs of love across cultures, from navigating emotional expressions to dealing with societal pressures and language barriers.

    In this heartfelt conversation, Fara and Grant emphasize the importance of open communication and understanding each other's cultural backgrounds. They share personal anecdotes and insights, highlighting the need for creating a shared cultural space within the relationship.

    And it's not just about the couples – they also touch on the broader societal challenges that impact all relationships. From there, they discuss the role of therapy in helping couples navigate these cultural complexities and build stronger bonds.

    Ultimately, this episode is a reminder of the power of empathy, negotiation, and respect in fostering healthy and thriving intercultural partnerships. Tune in for heartfelt stories and valuable advice that will resonate with anyone in love, regardless of cultural differences.

    Key Takeaways

    * Intercultural marriages are Increasing due to globalization
    * Partners from different cultural backgrounds may experience and express emotions differently
    * Intercultural couples may face societal resistance or familial pressures
    * Effective communication about cultural values and expressions is vital
    * Couples can create a "third culture" within their relationship
    * The Journey of Intercultural marriage Is both challenging and enriching

    In This Episode:

    * [01:05] Intercultural marriage and  its rising prevalence
    * [02:30] Challenges in intercultural relationships
    * [10:16] Impact of cultural values on relationships
    * [17:24] How cultural backgrounds impact the expression of emotions
    * [23:42] US cultural perspective on friendship vs Russian and Lithuanian cultures.
    * [26:03] Family and societal attitudes in Intercultural relationships
    * [33:30] Creating a third culture in intercultural relationships
    * [36:12] Evidence-informed relationship practice

    Resources and Links

    Doorknob Comments

    * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

    Dr. Fara White

    * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

    Dr. Grant Brenner

    * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

    • 40 min
    Developing Engaged Citizens

    Developing Engaged Citizens

    In this episode of the Doorknob Comments podcast, we are excited to sit down with Dr. Edward Shapiro, a distinguished author and psychoanalyst.

    During our conversation, we discuss his book "Finding a Place to Stand." We explore the significance of family dynamics, institutional roles, and citizenship. He highlights the value of self-reflection and the challenges of leadership in a polarized society. Dr. Shapiro also shares a story illustrating the importance of action in confrontational situations. His book serves as a testament to the value of this learning process and is a recommended read for anyone interested in leadership, group relations, and active citizenship.

    Key Takeaways

    * Engaged citizenship is vital for a cohesive society and involves active listening and open-mindedness.
    * Group relations conferences provide insights into organizational dynamics and the role of authority.
    * Leadership requires courage to act in challenging situations, as illustrated by a social worker's story.
    * Learning from others and self-reflection enhance leadership.
    * Asking "How are they right?" rather than "How am I right?" is a paradigm shift for effective listening and collaboration.

    In This Episode:

    * [04:30] Experiences and journey to Austin Riggs
    * [14:30] Therapy and its role in family dynamics
    * [19:49] The family as an institution
    * [22:39] The book's idea in addressing societal issues
    * [24:28] The concept of good citizenship
    * [30:10] Group relations conferences and their impact
    * [45:19] "Why do I have to do this?"

    Notable Quotes

    * [12:47] "People resist impatient people who are labeled by others as one of the problems of family dynamics." - Ed
    * [19:49] "The family is an institution and like any institution, it has a mission on behalf of society, and that mission is development - Ed
    * [38:32] "I don't know that everybody wants to be a leader. Many people are afraid of leadership because of what's happened in their families around taking up leadership roles. We always bring our family role into our organization." - Ed

    Resources and Links

    Doorknob Comments

    * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

    Dr. Edward Shapiro

    * https://www.edwardrshapiro.com/
    * Finding a Place to Stand [https://www.edwardrshapiro.com/finding-a-place-to-stand]

    Dr. Fara White

    * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

    Dr. Grant Brenner

    * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

    • 48 min
    Survivor Siblings

    Survivor Siblings

    In this episode of the Doorknob Comments podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by psychoanalyst and author Johanna Dobrich.

    In our conversation, Johanna discusses her book "Working with Survivor Siblings" and her research into the unique challenges faced by individuals who grew up with chronically or severely disabled siblings. The conversation examines the profound impact these sibling relationships have on personal development, the influence of parental dynamics, and the necessity for therapists to understand these complex peer relations. The episode also addresses the effects of medical trauma on families, highlighting the importance of increased awareness and therapeutic support for all members affected.

    Key Takeaways

    * Sibling relationships significantly influence personal development, especially when one grows up with a sibling who has chronic or severe disabilities.
    * Survivor siblings face unique challenges, including balancing their own needs with the demands of their sibling's disability.
    * Therapeutic approaches should be more nuanced and tailored to address the specific needs of survivor siblings.
    * The resilience and strength of survivor siblings highlight the human spirit's capacity to cope with and adapt to challenging circumstances.

    In This Episode:

    * [01:46] Understanding sibling relationships/sibling rivalry
    * [14:43] Defining survivor siblings
    * [16:34] Impact of chronic medical conditions
    * [22:20] Sharing life with a sibling
    * [26:00] Siblings who disrupt family dynamics/troublemaker siblings
    * [30:08] Transmission of trauma and attachment
    * [33:24]The importance of children feeling delighted by their parents

    Resources and Links

    Doorknob Comments

    * https://www.doorknobcomments.com/

    Johanna Dobrich

    * https://www.johannadobrich.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannadobrich/
    * Working with Survivor Siblings in Psychoanalysis: Ability and Disability in Clinical Process [https://www.amazon.com/Working-Survivor-Siblings-Psychoanalysis-Perspectives/dp/0367645769#:~:text=Editorial%20Reviews-,Working%20with%20Survivor%20Siblings%20in%20Psychoanalysis%3A%20Ability%20and%20Disability%20in,the%20enduring%20effects%20of%20lateral]

    Dr. Fara White

    * https://www.farawhitemd.com/

    Dr. Grant Brenner

    * https://www.granthbrennermd.com/
    * https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

    • 38 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
21 Ratings

21 Ratings

HappyboyHappyboy ,

A guilty pleasure for a colleague…

Grant and Sara are both erudite and humorous—the time speeds by each time I listen to this podcast. And yet it’s simply a pleasure, not a guilty one, because it prompts both questions and insights every bit as profoundly as the journals in our field!

MarkOTherapy ,

Wonderful Podcast About Therapy!

You won’t find a better podcast featuring fun, insightful, dynamic, inspiring, eloquent, accessible, various, informed and informative conversations about therapy and mental health in general. Fara and Grant are terrific, engaging hosts, their selection of content is exciting and cutting edge, and the production quality is extremely top notch. Highly recommend!

Doc Berry ,

IMPORTANT AND JARGON FREE!!!

Ripping good stuff here. Important topics are covered and the discussions are refreshingly free of professional jargon and related self-important verbal flatulence. These discussions are relevant and relatable to us all.

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