Off the Couch Psychology

Jerry L. Cunningham
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Off the Couch Psychology Podcast is your go-to source for understanding mental health, breaking the stigma around mental illness, and learning how to take control of your mind and your life. Hosted by Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist, author, and podcast host, this show breaks down complex psychological topics into real, practical conversations you can actually use in your everyday life. Each episode explores mental health in a way that is clear, relatable, and grounded in real science. From anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and burnout to cutting-edge psychological research and treatment approaches, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what's really going on in your mind—and what you can do about it. This isn't therapy—but it might be the closest thing you can get in your car, at the gym, or sitting on your couch. If you've ever struggled with stress, overthinking, emotional exhaustion, or just found yourself wondering, "What is going on in my mind?"—this podcast is for you. You'll learn: • How anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders actually work • Evidence-based therapy approaches that professional use and coping strategies you can use • How to manage stress, overthinking, and emotional overwhelm • Information about mental health medications and treatment options • Practical tools to improve your mental health and daily life This podcast is designed to educate, motivate, and empower you to take action—because understanding your mind is the first step to changing your life.

  1. 11h ago

    Nightmares and Night Terrors Aren't the Same

    A terrifying dream wakes you in the middle of the night. Your heart is pounding, you remember exactly what happened, and going back to sleep suddenly doesn't sound very appealing. But what if someone sits up screaming, looks terrified, cannot be easily comforted, and remembers almost nothing the next morning? These experiences may look similar, but nightmares and night terrors are not simply different degrees of the same problem. In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll learn what separates nightmares from night terrors, what your brain and body are doing during each one, and why REM and non-REM sleep matter. Through the stories of CJ and Mika, you'll also hear how these nighttime events can spill into daytime life, affecting energy, concentration, relationships, and even how someone feels about going to bed. We'll also look at what can help, including practical sleep changes, therapy approaches such as imagery rehearsal therapy, when medication such as prazosin may be considered for PTSD-related nightmares, and when recurring nighttime problems deserve professional evaluation. (PTSD.va.gov) Suggested Reading & Resources Cleveland Clinic — Night Terrors: What They Are, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. A useful overview of sleep terrors, including symptoms, causes, and how they differ from nightmares. (Cleveland Clinic) Read the Cleveland Clinic guide U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD — Sleep Problems in Veterans with PTSD. Discusses nightmares, insomnia, imagery rehearsal therapy, CBT-I, and medication research. (PTSD.va.gov) Explore the National Center for PTSD resource VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for PTSD and Acute Stress Disorder. Includes clinical guidance on prazosin for nightmares associated with PTSD and discusses the evidence and limitations behind its use. (Health Quality) Read the VA/DoD clinical guideline National Center for PTSD — Cognitive Behavioral Nightmare Therapies and PTSD. An educational resource covering behavioral approaches to recurring nightmares. (PTSD.va.gov) Learn about cognitive-behavioral nightmare therapies Mentioned in This Episode #ANightmareOnElmStreet #FreddyKrueger Key Takeaways Night terrors are not simply extreme nightmares; they arise from different sleep processes. Nightmares generally occur during REM sleep, and people often wake alert and remember the dream. Night terrors arise from non-REM sleep and can involve screaming, movement, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and little or no memory afterward. (Cleveland Clinic) Both can affect daytime energy, concentration, mood, relationships, and feelings about going to sleep. Recurring or dangerous episodes, injuries, significant daytime impairment, or unusual nighttime behaviors deserve professional evaluation. Effective help depends on identifying what is actually happening rather than treating every frightening nighttime event as the same problem. For more episodes, resources, and information from Dr. Jerry Cunningham, visit Quest-Success.com.

  2. 3d ago

    When Postpartum Mental Health Turns Serious

    The arrival of a baby is supposed to be a time of joy, but for some families, the postpartum period brings depression, severe mood changes, or even a frightening loss of contact with reality. In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham looks beyond the headlines to help you understand postpartum depression, bipolar disorder during the postpartum period, and postpartum psychosis. You'll learn how these conditions differ, which changes may be warning signs, why sleep and hormonal changes matter, and when symptoms have moved beyond the normal stress of caring for a newborn. We'll also look at the Andrea Yates case as a historical illustration of severe postpartum mental illness while briefly addressing why current cases have brought this conversation back into the public eye. Most importantly, this episode is about recognizing problems earlier. Whether you're a new parent, spouse, grandparent, family member, or friend, knowing what to watch for could help someone get professional care before symptoms become more serious. Key Takeaways Postpartum depression is different from the temporary "baby blues." Bipolar symptoms can include dramatic changes in mood, energy, judgment, and need for sleep. Postpartum psychosis is rare but is a psychiatric emergency requiring immediate professional care. (National Institute of Mental Health) Family members may notice significant behavioral changes before the person recognizes them. Early evaluation by a doctor or mental health professional can make an important difference. Postpartum mental illness is treatable, and recovery is possible. (National Institute of Mental Health) For more episodes and resources, visit Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading & Resources National Institute of Mental Health — Perinatal Depression — An accessible overview of symptoms, risk factors, treatment, postpartum psychosis, and when to seek professional help. NIMH: Perinatal Depression Bergink et al. — "Postpartum Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder: Review of Neurobiology and Expert Consensus Statement on Classification" — A 2026 review examining the close relationship between postpartum psychosis and bipolar disorder. Read the PubMed abstract Sharma — "The Postpartum Period and Bipolar Disorder: Early Identification, Prevention, and Management" — A 2026 review focusing on identifying and managing bipolar illness following childbirth. Read the PubMed abstract Gavin de Becker — The Gift of Fear — Mentioned in the episode for its broader lesson about recognizing warning signs rather than automatically explaining them away. Sit, Rothschild & Wisner — "A Review of Postpartum Psychosis" — A clinical review covering symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of postpartum psychosis. Read the article People, Books, Films & Cases Mentioned #AndreaYates #LindsayClancy #WhenTheBoughBreaks #GavinDeBecker #TheGiftOfFear #PostpartumDepression #PostpartumPsychosis #BipolarDisorder

  3. Aug 14

    Your Thoughts Are Lying

    Everybody seems to be talking about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but what exactly is it, and why has it become one of the most trusted approaches in mental health? In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll discover why CBT has earned decades of scientific support and how its practical strategies can help you think more clearly, manage stress more effectively, and respond to life's challenges with greater confidence. You'll learn what makes CBT an empirically validated treatment, how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another, and why changing one can positively affect the others. Through relatable examples and practical applications, you'll walk away with simple tools you can begin using immediately—whether you're managing anxiety, dealing with stress, or simply wanting to make better decisions. If you've ever wondered why your mind sometimes jumps to the worst-case scenario or how to stop negative thinking from taking over, this episode is for you. Press play and discover why one small shift in your thinking can create meaningful changes in your life. Key Takeaways Learn why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is considered the gold standard for many mental health conditions. Discover how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors continuously influence one another. Understand what "empirically validated" really means and why evidence-based treatment matters. Learn practical ways to challenge automatic negative thoughts using evidence instead of emotion. See how small changes in thinking and behavior can create lasting improvements over time. Learn more about Dr. Jerry Cunningham, his books, podcasts, speaking engagements, and additional resources at www.Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading Beck, J. S. (2020). Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond (3rd ed.). Beck, A. T. (1979). Cognitive Therapy of Depression. Ellis, A., & Dryden, W. (2007). The Practice of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (2nd ed.). Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). "The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-analyses." Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427–440. American Psychological Association. (2023). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Depression Across Three Age Cohorts. Mentioned in This Episode #CognitiveBehavioralTherapy #CBT #AaronBeck #AlbertEllis #EvidenceBasedPractice #MentalHealth #Psychology #ThoughtsEmotionsBehaviors

  4. Aug 11

    When the Mirror Lies

    What if the person judging your appearance the most...is your own brain? In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll discover why Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is far more than insecurity or vanity. You'll learn how this often misunderstood condition can cause someone to become trapped in a cycle of obsessive thoughts, mirror checking, reassurance seeking, and avoidance—even when everyone else sees nothing wrong. You'll also learn why BDD affects both men and women, what actually happens in the brain, why cosmetic procedures rarely solve the problem, and which evidence-based treatments have been shown to help people regain control of their lives. Whether you're wondering if these symptoms describe you, someone you love, or you simply want to better understand this disorder, this episode will give you practical insight and hope. The mirror doesn't always tell the whole story—and sometimes the mind tells an even bigger lie. Press play and learn how to recognize the difference. Key Takeaways Understand what Body Dysmorphic Disorder really is—and what it isn't. Learn the symptoms and warning signs that separate BDD from everyday appearance concerns. Discover why the brain can distort the way someone sees themselves. Explore the treatments that research has shown to be most effective, including CBT, ACT, ERP, and medication when appropriate. Find practical strategies that can help break the cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. For more podcasts, books, articles, and resources to help you improve your mental health and personal growth, visit https://www.Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading & Resources American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., Text Revision; DSM-5-TR). Katherine A. Phillips, M.D. The Broken Mirror: Understanding and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder. James Clear. Atomic Habits. International OCD Foundation. Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Resources. Mayo Clinic. Body Dysmorphic Disorder – Symptoms and Causes. Mentioned in This Episode #RobertPattinson #BlackSwan #NataliePortman #AtomicHabits #JamesClear #TheThing #FantasticFour #BodyDysmorphicDisorder #CBT #ACT #ERP

  5. Aug 7

    When Feelings Aren't Really Yours

    Have you ever walked away from a conversation wondering, "Why did I react like that?" Or maybe someone seemed upset with you even though you hadn't done anything wrong. In this episode, you'll discover how transference and countertransference quietly shape your emotions, attitudes, relationships, and everyday interactions—whether you're in a therapist's office, at work, at home, or standing in line at the grocery store. You'll learn how your past experiences can influence the way you see people today, why emotions sometimes seem bigger than the situation itself, and how recognizing these patterns can help you communicate better, reduce conflict, and improve your relationships. Through real-life stories, practical examples, and a little humor, you'll walk away with simple tools you can start using immediately to become more self-aware and emotionally healthy. Key Takeaways Learn the difference between transference and countertransference in simple, everyday language. Recognize when old experiences are influencing current relationships. Improve communication by responding instead of reacting. Build healthier relationships through greater emotional awareness. Gain practical strategies that apply at home, at work, and in every interaction. For more podcast episodes, books, speaking events, and practical resources to help you grow mentally, morally, physically, spiritually, and financially, visit www.Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading Gelso, C. J., & Hayes, J. A. Countertransference and the Therapist's Inner Experience: Perils and Possibilities. Freud, S. The Dynamics of Transference. Norcross, J. C., & Lambert, M. J. Psychotherapy Relationships That Work. American Psychological Association. APA Dictionary of Psychology (Entries on Transference and Countertransference). Gabbard, G. O. Long-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Mentioned in This Episode #InTreatment #PaulWeston #HBO #Psychology #Psychotherapy #Transference #Countertransference

  6. Aug 4

    When Your World Gets Smaller

    What if the hardest journey you'll ever take is the walk from your front door to your mailbox? In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll discover what agoraphobia really is—and why it's far more than simply being afraid to leave the house. You'll learn how this anxiety disorder develops, what is happening inside the brain, how it differs from social anxiety disorder, and why avoiding feared situations actually strengthens the cycle over time. Through real-life stories, the experiences of Paula Deen, practical treatment strategies, and evidence-based psychology, you'll gain a better understanding of what people living with agoraphobia experience every day. Most importantly, you'll walk away with hope. Recovery is possible, and you'll learn why small, consistent steps can help people reclaim their freedom one victory at a time. Whether you're trying to understand your own anxiety, support someone you love, or simply expand your knowledge of mental health, this episode will leave you with greater compassion, practical insight, and a clearer understanding of one of the most misunderstood anxiety disorders. Key Takeaways Understand what agoraphobia is and why it is different from social anxiety disorder. Learn how panic, avoidance, and the brain work together to maintain the disorder. Discover why small, gradual steps are more effective than trying to "just get over it." Explore evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Gain practical ways to encourage recovery while avoiding behaviors that unintentionally reinforce anxiety. Learn more about improving your mental health and personal growth at https://www.Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading & Resources American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., Text Revision; DSM-5-TR). Bourne, E. J. (2020). The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook (7th ed.). Craske, M. G., & Barlow, D. H. Mastery of Your Anxiety and Panic: Workbook. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Information on Panic Disorder and Anxiety Disorders. Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA). Resources on Agoraphobia and Anxiety Disorders. Mentioned in This Episode #Agoraphobia #PaulaDeen #TheWomanInTheWindow #Copycat #EdmundBourne #TheAnxietyAndPhobiaWorkbook #CBT #AcceptanceAndCommitmentTherapy #DSM5TR

  7. Jul 31

    Mania vs. Hypomania Explained

    What does it really mean to have a manic episode? Is hypomania just having extra energy, or is there much more to it? In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll learn how psychologists and psychiatrists tell the difference between mania and hypomania, why that distinction is so important, and how it can affect diagnosis and treatment. You'll discover why sleeping less isn't always the biggest clue, why being productive doesn't automatically mean someone is hypomanic, and why accurately describing your symptoms can make all the difference during an evaluation. Through real-life examples, practical explanations, and a little humor along the way, you'll gain a clearer understanding of one of the most misunderstood parts of bipolar disorder. Whether you're living with bipolar disorder, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand mental health, this episode will give you practical knowledge you can use in everyday life. Key Takeaways Learn the clinical differences between manic and hypomanic episodes. Understand why the severity and impact of symptoms matter more than simply having high energy. Discover the warning signs that should be discussed with a mental health professional. Learn how tracking sleep, mood, and behavior can help improve diagnosis and treatment. Understand how communicating symptoms clearly can lead to more effective care. For more psychology resources, books, and podcast episodes, visit www.Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). American Psychiatric Publishing, 2022. Miklowitz, David J. The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide: What You and Your Family Need to Know. 3rd Edition. Guilford Press. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Bipolar Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder Goodwin, Frederick K., & Jamison, Kay Redfield. Manic-Depressive Illness: Bipolar Disorders and Recurrent Depression. Oxford University Press. International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD). Educational resources on bipolar disorder and current research. Mentioned in This Episode #BipolarDisorder #Mania #Hypomania #DSM5TR #AmericanPsychiatricAssociation #NationalInstituteOfMentalHealth #DavidMiklowitz #KayRedfieldJamison

  8. Jul 28

    When People Feel Like Threats

    Social anxiety disorder is far more than being shy. In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll discover what is really happening inside the mind of someone who fears being judged, criticized, or embarrassed in everyday social situations. You'll also learn why social anxiety disorder is so often confused with generalized anxiety disorder—and why understanding the difference matters. Through real-life examples, current psychological research, practical treatment strategies, and a relatable story, you'll gain a better understanding of how social anxiety develops, how it affects relationships, work, school, and daily life, and most importantly, what actually helps people regain confidence. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety yourself or want to better understand someone you care about, this episode will leave you with practical insights, hope, and a fresh perspective. Key Takeaways Learn the difference between social anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Understand why the brain interprets social situations as threats. Discover how avoidance unintentionally keeps anxiety alive. Explore proven treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Learn practical strategies that help people build confidence one step at a time. Gain a better understanding of how to support someone living with social anxiety. For more podcasts, books, articles, and resources from Dr. Jerry Cunningham, visit www.Quest-Success.com. Suggested Reading & Resources American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR). Gillian Butler. Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness. The Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook by Martin M. Antony & Richard P. Swinson. National Institute of Mental Health – Information on Social Anxiety Disorder. Anxiety & Depression Association of America – Resources on anxiety disorders and treatment. Mentioned in This Episode #ThePerksOfBeingAWallflower #JohnnyDepp #GillianButler #CBT #SocialAnxietyDisorder #GeneralizedAnxietyDisorder

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3 Ratings

About

Off the Couch Psychology Podcast is your go-to source for understanding mental health, breaking the stigma around mental illness, and learning how to take control of your mind and your life. Hosted by Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist, author, and podcast host, this show breaks down complex psychological topics into real, practical conversations you can actually use in your everyday life. Each episode explores mental health in a way that is clear, relatable, and grounded in real science. From anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and burnout to cutting-edge psychological research and treatment approaches, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what's really going on in your mind—and what you can do about it. This isn't therapy—but it might be the closest thing you can get in your car, at the gym, or sitting on your couch. If you've ever struggled with stress, overthinking, emotional exhaustion, or just found yourself wondering, "What is going on in my mind?"—this podcast is for you. You'll learn: • How anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders actually work • Evidence-based therapy approaches that professional use and coping strategies you can use • How to manage stress, overthinking, and emotional overwhelm • Information about mental health medications and treatment options • Practical tools to improve your mental health and daily life This podcast is designed to educate, motivate, and empower you to take action—because understanding your mind is the first step to changing your life.

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