The Psych Studio Podcast

tomkielyphd@gmail.com

The Psych Studio Podcast is where psychology meets real life. Hosted by clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist Tom Kiely, PhD, the show breaks down complex mental health topics into clear, thoughtful, and relatable conversations. From brain-based explanations of everyday struggles to evidence-based tools you can actually use, each episode blends science, storytelling, and humanity. Curious, compassionate, and refreshingly honest—this is a space to better understand your mind, your relationships, and yourself.

  1. Grief: You Don’t Move On, You Move Forward...

    Apr 22

    Grief: You Don’t Move On, You Move Forward...

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Tom Kiely explores the complex nature of grief, examining how our brains and nervous systems handle loss, and offering a compassionate perspective on navigating it. Whether you're grieving or supporting someone who is, this episode provides valuable insights into the process of healing and the importance of staying connected. Key Topics ·      The neurobiology of grief: how the brainattempts to solve a problem it can't fix ·      Common misconceptions about grief stages and thenon-linear reality ·      The psychological and physiological responses toloss, including physical sensations ·      Models of grief: from stages to dual process,meaning-making, and continuing bonds ·      Practical strategies for processing grief:naming feelings, avoiding avoidance, staying connected ·      The importance of moving forward with love, notforgetting or leaving behind Timestamps 00:00 - Personal story: reflecting on the loss of Dr.Kiely's father02:36 - How grief fragments memory andimpacts daily life04:01 - The social and academic fallout ofgrief05:21 - Recognizing that you're not yourselfduring grief07:15 - Creating a new self with a newrelationship after loss09:10 - A pivotal moment in therapy classthat revealed unresolved grief12:37 - Understanding that grief waits to beprocessed, not forgotten17:25 - The origins and limitations of thefive stages model23:47 - The dangers of comparing your griefto a timeline25:36 - The meaning-making model: rebuildingyour story after loss28:18 - Continuing bonds theory: stayingconnected in new ways33:46 - Moving with love rather than awayfrom the lost person35:01 - The neuropsychology of grief: brainregions involved and why it feels physical40:49 - Avoidance as a defense mechanism ingrief43:04 - Reframing the phrase "movingon" to "moving forward" with loved ones44:33 - Practical ways to live with loss andhonor your relationship45:54 - How to navigate grief intentionallyand compassionately46:24 - No right or wrong way to grieve:honoring your unique process47:18 - Naming feelings to reduce their power48:26 - The risks of avoidance and the valueof connection50:19 - Staying connected through memories, traditions,and internal dialogue52:02 - Giving yourself permission to carrygrief and love forward52:42 - Recognizing signs that support isneeded53:19 - The role of therapy in processinggrief56:17 - Encouragement to approach grief withpatience, compassion, and awareness ·      Thanks For Asking Podcast by Nora McInerney ·      Grief Never Really Goes Away: YouTube episode by Nora McInerney ·      On Death and Dying by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross ·      Continuing Bonds Theory explanation ·      Neuropsychologicalaspects of grief (general overview)   Subscribe 🔔 Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCASTLINK]   Get In Touch With Dr. Kiely PRIVATE PRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us   Suicide and Crisis Hotline Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/ Music Street Cred: Anteros https://uppbeat.io/t/anteros/street-cred License code: W7XEHCU0U6DSGN9Q   Firelight: Hemlock https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/firelight License code: RKGF5N0ZRFQADJ9O   Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752   Poem: Soundroll https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/poem License code: IF5E7OHG2FZLQTRN   Ember: The Lakes https://uppbeat.io/t/the-lakes/ember License code: DEW9V7UFVY0KIDGM   Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR

    43 min
  2. “Why You Procrastinate (And Why It’s Not Your Fault)”

    Apr 8

    “Why You Procrastinate (And Why It’s Not Your Fault)”

    Summary This episode explores the true nature of procrastination, emphasizing that it's not laziness but a complex emotional regulation process. Dr. Tom Kiely explains how understanding the emotional roots of procrastination can help us break free from the cycle and develop healthier strategies. Keywords procrastination, emotional regulation, ADHD, self-compassion, productivity, mental health, behavioral change   Takeaways Procrastination is about emotion, not time. Avoidance provides short-term relief but long-term shame. Externalize structure to manage tasks effectively. Practice self-compassion to break the shame cycle. Reframe procrastination as a signal of underlying distress.   Subscribe 🔔Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCAST LINK]     Get in touch with Dr. Kiely PRIVATE PRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM     Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us Suicide and Crisis Hotline Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/    Resources Solving Procrastination Simon Fraser University: Student Learning Commons Atomic Habits by James Clear   Music: Firelight: Hemlock https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/firelight License code: RKGF5N0ZRFQADJ9O   Return: Greenhouse https://uppbeat.io/t/greenhouse/return License code: 9KVZHSIBZRDEOIPT   Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752   Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR

    23 min
  3. Wired but Lonely: The Psychology of Loneliness in a Connected World

    Feb 28

    Wired but Lonely: The Psychology of Loneliness in a Connected World

    KEYWORDS loneliness, connection, technology, mental health, social skills, relationships, emotional well-being, neuropsychology, therapy, modern life SUMMARY In this episode, Dr. Tom Kiely explores the complex nature of loneliness in the modern world, drawing on personal experiences and clinical insights. He discusses how technology has transformed human relationships, often leading to emotional disconnection despite increased access to social networks. The conversation delves into the psychological and neurological impacts of loneliness, highlighting its association with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Dr. Kiely emphasizes the importance of social skills and therapeutic approaches in overcoming feelings of isolation, ultimately offering hope for reconnection and meaningful relationships. SUBSCRIBE: 🔔 Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCAST LINK]  GET IN TOUCH WITH DR. KIELY: PRIVATE PRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM PSYCHOLOGY TODAY: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us SUICIDE AND CRISIS HOTLINE:  Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/ MUSIC: Firelight: Hemlock https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/firelight License code: RKGF5N0ZRFQADJ9O Return: Greenhouse https://uppbeat.io/t/greenhouse/return License code: 9KVZHSIBZRDEOIPT From the Soul: Dope Cat https://uppbeat.io/t/dope-cat/from-the-soul License code: WQTPYD1X2ZGEWQP4 New Chapter: Jeffrey Kaale https://uppbeat.io/t/jeff-kaale/new-chapter License code: PDH53KC9G10HLCGS Rust: Monument Music https://uppbeat.io/t/monument-music/rust License code: UOGVCO8TIXB5KSJU Early Hours: Justin Lee https://uppbeat.io/t/justin-lee/early-hours License code: SKLF5PNEBQJKEJUC Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752 Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR

    1h 9m
  4. From Fatal Attraction to DBT: A Deep Dive into Borderline Personality Disorder

    Feb 3

    From Fatal Attraction to DBT: A Deep Dive into Borderline Personality Disorder

    “From Fatal Attraction to DBT: A Deep Dive into Borderline Personality Disorder” Hosted by: Tom Kiely, PhD KEYWORDS Borderline Personality Disorder, BPD, emotional dysregulation, attachment styles, neuropsychological assessment, therapy, mental health, psychological disorders, treatment, emotional regulation   SUMMARY In this episode, Dr. Tom Kiely delves into the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), exploring its portrayal in popular culture, particularly through the film 'Fatal Attraction.' He discusses the historical context of BPD, its symptoms, triggers, and the emotional dysregulation experienced by individuals with the disorder. The conversation also highlights the developmental origins of BPD, the impact of attachment styles, and the importance of neuropsychological assessment. Finally, Dr. Kiely emphasizes evidence-based therapeutic approaches to effectively treat BPD, challenging the stigma surrounding the disorder. SUBSCRIBE: 🔔 Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCAST LINK] GET IN TOUCH WITH DR. KIELY: PRIVATEPRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM PSYCHOLOGY TODAY: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us SUICIDE AND CRISIS HOTLINE: Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/ RESOURCES: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov American Psychiatric Association (APA): https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/borderline-personality-disorder Mayo Clinic – BPD Overview: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/borderline-personality-disorder National Education Alliance for Borderline PersonalityDisorder (NEA-BPD): https://www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.org International Society for the Study of PersonalityDisorders (ISSPD): https://www.isspd.org National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/learn-more/mental-health-conditions/borderline-personality-disorder Behavioral Tech (Marsha Linehan / DBT Training): https://behavioraltech.org DBT Self Help: https://www.dbtselfhelp.com Psychology Tools: https://www.psychologytools.com   MUSIC: Reflection: Luke Moseley https://uppbeat.io/t/luke-moseley/reflection License code: U2XR0X0A3M9RUFCZ   Sketchbook: Prigida https://uppbeat.io/t/prigida/sketch-book License code: XQEICUBN8C43SY4Q   Poem: Soundroll https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/poem License code: IF5E7OHG2FZLQTRN   Street Cred: Anteros https://uppbeat.io/t/anteros/street-cred License code: W7XEHCU0U6DSGN9Q   From the Soul: Dope Cat https://uppbeat.io/t/dope-cat/from-the-soul License code: WQTPYD1X2ZGEWQP4   High School: Infraction https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/high-school License code: BYSZKNIUFPWAEXLO   New Chapter: Jeffrey Kaale https://uppbeat.io/t/jeff-kaale/new-chapter License code: PDH53KC9G10HLCGS   Slow Down: HLFMN https://uppbeat.io/t/hlfmn/slow-down License code: 7YIWAJNANVVYNGC5   Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752   Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR

    1h 36m
  5. Psychology Goes to the Movies!

    Jan 15

    Psychology Goes to the Movies!

    A NOTE FROM DR. KIELY: Hey all! Thanks so much for being here. A couple of remarks about the production of this episode. First, I'm so sorry I'm late with this one! I had a number of obstacles that I needed to hurdle in its creation: my wifi was down for over a week. Then, I had to record this from my office, which is NOT the ideal recording setting (SO MUCH BACKGROUND AND STREET NOISE!). AND, let's not forget the holidays preoccupied me. You'll notice that this recording is rather poor quality, but it is by far the best cut from the many MANY recording attempts needed to make this episode a reality. Thanks for your patience, and thanks for being here. -Best, Tom. Keywords psychology, film, mental health, bipolar disorder, Munchausen by proxy, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, OCD, social anxiety, psychological syndromes Summary In this episode of the Psych Studio podcast, Dr. Tom Kiely explores the intersection of psychology and film, examining how various psychological syndromes are depicted in movies. He discusses bipolar disorder through 'Silver Linings Playbook' and 'Infinitely Polar Bear', Munchausen by proxy with 'Run', the aftermath of sexual assault in 'Sorry Baby', narcissistic abuse in 'The Invisible Man', OCD in 'As Good As It Gets', and social anxiety in 'Eighth Grade'. The episode emphasizes the importance of accurate mental health representation in film and how these narratives can deepen our understanding of psychological experiences. Takeaways The end of the year can be both beautiful and exhausting. Film can capture the complexity of psychological syndromes. Bipolar disorder is often oversimplified in media. Munchausen by proxy involves a caregiver's need for validation. Sexual assault trauma is about rupture in identity and safety. Narcissistic abuse can continue even after a relationship ends. OCD is a disorder driven by anxiety, not preference. Social anxiety is often misunderstood as mere shyness. Accurate film portrayals can foster empathy and understanding. The Psych Studio podcast aims to expand its reach with a YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE: 🔔 Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCAST LINK]    GET IN TOUCH WITH DR. KIELY: PRIVATE PRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM   PSYCHOLOGY TODAY: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us   SUICIDE AND CRISIS HOTLINE:  Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/   MUSIC: Cozy Holidays: Soundroll https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/cozy-holidays License code: XACSQXFRMJ3WQV2P   Snow-Fi: Prigida https://uppbeat.io/t/prigida/snow-fi License code: HGFYPCJDLYL2RJHN   Cocoa and Vinyl: Hey Pluto! https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/cocoa-and-vinyl License code: W1AEEHKWQMK6P6QP   Fireside: Pecan Pie https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/fireside License code: WTM35IZPIFAHKUSK   Lush: 21 On the Block https://uppbeat.io/t/21-on-the-block/lush License code: WJDCKYPOA3IZVLOR   432 Hz Healing Meditation Pack: AuraStock https://audiojungle.net/item/432-hz-healing-meditation-pack/29794630 License code: 77282a2c-7be7-4547-a30e-46da15d4df99   Chill Ambient Pack 1: Skanoir https://audiojungle.net/item/chill-ambient-pack-1/1455677 License code: d08c1ca6-4f23-41ef-be0f-1f8c3d898044   Tell Them: Tatami https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/tell-them License code: FFJXX3I3GUHNE6NB   Street Cred: Anteros https://uppbeat.io/t/anteros/street-cred License code: W7XEHCU0U6DSGN9Q   Golden Hills: Corals https://uppbeat.io/t/corals/golden-hills License code: RIN65M53ERWDC9MS   It Doesn’t Have to End: Tim Schaufert https://uppbeat.io/t/tim-schaufert/it-doesnt-have-to-end License code: YIFQSPPFQ2HQD3FO   Slow Down: HLFMN https://uppbeat.io/t/hlfmn/slow-down License code: 7YIWAJNANVVYNGC5   Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752   Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR

    1h 26m
  6. Why We Disagree: The Psychology Behind America’s Political Division

    12/20/2025

    Why We Disagree: The Psychology Behind America’s Political Division

    KEYWORDS Thanksgiving, politics, social psychology, cognitive biases, in-group, out-group, morality, social media, political division, bridging divides SUMMARY   In this episode, Dr. Tom Kiely explores the psychological factors contributing to political division, particularly during family gatherings like Thanksgiving. He delves into social psychology, cognitive biases, in-group versus out-group dynamics, and the role of morality in political judgment. The discussion also highlights the impact of social media algorithms on political discourse and offers pathways for bridging divides through empathy, critical thinking, and intergroup dialogue. SUBSCRIBE: 🔔 Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCAST LINK]  GET IN TOUCH WITH DR. KIELY: PRIVATE PRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM SUICIDE AND CRISIS HOTLINE:  Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/ MUSIC: Sketchbook: Prigida https://uppbeat.io/t/prigida/sketch-book License code: XQEICUBN8C43SY4Q   Poem: Soundroll https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/poem License code: IF5E7OHG2FZLQTRN   Street Cred: Anteros https://uppbeat.io/t/anteros/street-cred License code: W7XEHCU0U6DSGN9Q   Stellar: Jeff Kaale https://uppbeat.io/t/jeff-kaale/stellar License code: DQGJCF9J0TGLSPLZ   Throng: Swoop https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/throng License code: FB1EMQLHBUNI0LXU   New Chapter: Jeffrey Kaale https://uppbeat.io/t/jeff-kaale/new-chapter License code: PDH53KC9G10HLCGS   Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752   Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR SELECTED REFERENCES: Allcott, H., & Gentzkow, M.6 (2017). Social Media and Fake News in the 2016 Election. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 31(2), 211-236.Allport, G. W. (1954). The Nature of Prejudice. Addison-Wesley.Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. (2023, September 5). Polarization, Democracy, and Political Violence in the United States: What the Research Says. https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2023/09/polarization-democracy-and-political-violence-in-the-united-states-what-the-research-says?lang=enDePaul University. (n.d.). Bridging the Divide: 30 Strategies for Reducing Polarization at the Neighborhood Level. https://resources.depaul.edu/abcd-institute/publications/publications-and-learnings/Documents/Bridging%20the%20Divide%2030%20Strategies%20for%20Reducing%20Polarization%20at%20the%20Neighborhood%20Level.pdfLevy, R. (2021).7 Social Media, News Consumption, and Polarization: Evidence from a Field Experiment. American Economic Review, 111(3), 831-870.Nickerson, R. S. (1998). Confirmation bias: A ubiquitous phenomenon in many guises. Review of General Psychology, 2(2), 175-220.Number Analytics. (n.d.). Cognitive Biases in Politics. https://www.numberanalytics.com/blog/cognitive-biases-in-politicsPariser, E. (2011). The Filter Bubble: What the Internet Is Hiding from You. Penguin Press.ResearchGate.net. (n.d.). Politics makes bastards of us all: Why moral judgment is politically situational. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377439620_Politics_makes_bastards_of_us_all_Why_moral_judgment_is_politically_situationalStanford Graduate School of Business. (n.d.). 10 Tips for Tackling Political Polarization in the Workplace and Beyond. https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/10-tips-tackling-political-polarization-workplace-and-beyond8Sumner, W. G. (1906). Folkways: A study of the sociological importance of usages, manners, customs, mores, and morals. Ginn and Company.Taber, C. S., & Lodge, M. (2006). Motivated skepticism9 in the evaluation of political beliefs. American Journal of Political Science, 50(3), 755-769.Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1979). An integrative theory of intergroup conflict. Journal of Social Psychology, 33(3), 47-63.

    1h 9m
  7. ADHD: Focus, Frustration, and the Fire Within

    12/04/2025

    ADHD: Focus, Frustration, and the Fire Within

    KEYWORDS ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, neurodevelopmental disorder, mental health, treatment, relationships, education, brain science, therapy, medication SUMMARY In this episode, Dr. Tom Kiely delves into the complexities of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental disorder often misunderstood as mere distraction or restlessness. He explores its classification, symptoms, and the profound impact it has on individuals' lives, relationships, and education. The conversation highlights the daily experiences of those living with ADHD, the challenges they face, and the unexpected gifts that can arise from the condition. Dr. Kiely also discusses the brain science behind ADHD, evidence-based treatments, and the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing the disorder, including therapy and medication. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to ADHD and Its Misunderstandings 01:56 Understanding ADHD: Classification and Symptoms 09:04 The Daily Experience of Living with ADHD 13:11 Impact of ADHD on Relationships 16:09 ADHD in Education and Learning 18:16 Career Challenges for Adults with ADHD 19:56 The Bright Side of ADHD 24:15 Neuroscience of ADHD: The Neuropsych Neighborhood Watch 31:17 Therapy Circle Time: Evidence-Based Treatments for ADHD 37:58 Pharmacological Approaches to ADHD Treatment 44:11 Conclusion: Embracing the ADHD Experience ADHD RESOURCES: CHADD: CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH ADHD INSANE RESOURCE HUB! CLICK HERE! SUBSCRIBE: 🔔 Subscribe to access bi-weekly podcast episodes:  [PODCAST LINK]  GET IN TOUCH WITH DR. KIELY: PRIVATE PRACTICE WEBSITE PSYCHOLOGY TODAY LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM PSYCHOLOGY TODAY: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us SUICIDE AND CRISIS HOTLINE:  Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/ MUSIC: Rock Your Surfboard: Yeti Music https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTR Summer Pop Lemonade: SonicMood https://audiojungle.net/item/summer-pop-lemonade/53371178 License code: 14a92b7e-e924-4c82-9de5-f8aa3518b752 Reflection: Night Drift https://uppbeat.io/t/night-drift/reflection License code: 0BX7N0IN0QNZKD33 Poem: Soundroll https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/poem License code: IF5E7OHG2FZLQTRN Stellar: Jeff Kaale https://uppbeat.io/t/jeff-kaale/stellar License code: DQGJCF9J0TGLSPLZ Skippin’ School: Needmospace https://uppbeat.io/t/needmospace/skippin-school License code: UIMY5IDGFCRPBPWZ Luxurious: Hey Pluto! https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/luxurious License code: SJRSDSRZ29UI6BHW Slow Down: HLFMN https://uppbeat.io/t/hlfmn/slow-down License code: 7YIWAJNANVVYNGC5 Rooftop: Otto.mp3 https://uppbeat.io/t/ottomp3/rooftop License code: JYAY4NYSWIVHDVIE

    50 min

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About

The Psych Studio Podcast is where psychology meets real life. Hosted by clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist Tom Kiely, PhD, the show breaks down complex mental health topics into clear, thoughtful, and relatable conversations. From brain-based explanations of everyday struggles to evidence-based tools you can actually use, each episode blends science, storytelling, and humanity. Curious, compassionate, and refreshingly honest—this is a space to better understand your mind, your relationships, and yourself.