The Couch: Real Therapists Talk Mental Health and Relationships

Dr. Juan Santos and Jacy King
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Monthly

Welcome to The Couch Podcast — where real therapists talk about real life. Hosted by Jacy King and Dr. Juan Santos, licensed mental health counselors in Greensboro, North Carolina, this podcast gives you practical tools and honest conversations to help you improve your mental health, relationships, and mindset—without the fluff. We cover the topics people struggle with most, including anxiety, stress, overthinking, burnout, ADHD, emotional shutdown, people pleasing, boundaries, communication, trauma, parenting stress, marriage after kids, self-worth, and healing patterns that keep repeating.

  1. Jul 31

    How Childhood Attachment Wounds Shape Your Parenting (What Shrinking Gets Right About Dad Issues) | Episode 66

    Have you ever caught yourself saying, "I sound just like my parents" or "I promised I'd never do that"? In this episode of The Couch, Dr. Juan Santos explores how childhood attachment wounds influence the way we parent, communicate, and respond to our children's emotions. Using examples inspired by the television series Shrinking, we discuss how unresolved grief, father wounds, and mother wounds can quietly shape family relationships—even when we have the best intentions. You'll learn: What attachment wounds areHow childhood experiences affect adult relationshipsCommon parenting patterns that stem from unresolved emotional woundsWhy repair matters more than perfectionPractical reflection questions to help break generational cyclesWhether you're a parent, hope to become one, or simply want to understand yourself better, this episode offers compassionate, evidence-informed insights into healing and creating healthier relationships. Reflection Questions As we wrap up, I'd encourage you to reflect on a few questions. What emotional messages did you receive growing up? What feelings weren't allowed in your family? When your child is upset, what happens inside you? Are you responding to your child—or reacting from your own childhood experiences? Awareness is often the first step toward healing. If you found this episode helpful, please follow The Couch, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who may benefit from it. For therapy services, workshops, and additional mental health resources, visit Santos Counseling. If you're located in North Carolina and are interested in counseling services, our team at Santos Counseling provides therapy for individuals, couples, families, children, and teens through both in-person and telehealth appointments. Visit us http://santoscounseling.com/⁠http://santoscounseling.com/⁠ to learn more about our services and educational resources. If you enjoyed today's episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might benefit from it. Your support helps us continue bringing practical mental health education to more people. Thank you for listening to The Couch. Until next time, remember to move your wellness forward. References Bowlby, J. (1988). A Secure Base: Parent-Child Attachment and Healthy Human Development. Siegel, D. J., & Hartzell, M. (2013). Parenting from the Inside Out. Johnson, S. M. (2019). Attachment Theory in Practice. Winnicott, D. W. (1965). The Maturational Processes and the Facilitating Environment.

  2. Jul 31

    Understanding Codependency: When Caring for Others Means Losing Yourself | Episode 65

    Have you ever felt responsible for other people's happiness? Do you struggle to say "no," feel guilty when putting yourself first, or find yourself constantly trying to fix everyone else's problems? In this episode of The Couch, Dr. Juan Santos explores what codependency really is—and what it isn't. Many people think codependency simply means caring too much, but healthy relationships involve support without sacrificing your own emotional well-being. You'll learn how codependent patterns often develop, why they can be difficult to recognize, and practical ways to begin creating healthier boundaries while maintaining compassion for the people you love. Whether you're in a romantic relationship, caring for aging parents, supporting a friend, or simply feeling emotionally exhausted from always putting others first, this episode offers practical insights to help you find greater balance. Remember: caring for yourself isn't selfish—it's essential. In This Episode ✔ What codependency actually means ✔ Common signs of codependent behaviors ✔ Where codependency often begins ✔ Healthy caring versus unhealthy responsibility ✔ Why boundaries feel uncomfortable ✔ Three practical ways to begin changing codependent patterns ✔ How to care for others without losing yourself Key Takeaways Caring about someone is different from feeling responsible for them.Healthy relationships include boundaries.Your worth isn't determined by how much you do for others.Saying no doesn't make you selfishYou can support people without rescuing them.Self-care allows you to show up more fully in your relationships. This week, pause before automatically saying "yes." Ask yourself these three questions: Do I actually want to do this?Do I realistically have the emotional or physical capacity?Am I helping because I care—or because I feel guilty?Notice your answer without judging yourself. Small moments of awareness often lead to meaningful change. "You can care about someone without carrying them." If these patterns feel deeply rooted or are affecting your relationships, speaking with a licensed mental health professional can be a helpful next step. Therapy can help you: • Build healthy boundaries • Improve self-esteem • Reduce people-pleasing behaviors • Strengthen communication • Develop healthier relationships If you're located in North Carolina and are interested in counseling services, our team at Santos Counseling provides therapy for individuals, couples, families, children, and teens through both in-person and telehealth appointments. Visit us http://santoscounseling.com/http://santoscounseling.com/ to learn more about our services and educational resources. If you enjoyed today's episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might benefit from it. Your support helps us continue bringing practical mental health education to more people. Thank you for listening to The Couch. Until next time, remember to move your wellness forward.

  3. Jul 20

    ADHD in Kids: Early Signs and Symptoms Every Parent Should Know | Episode 64

    Is your child constantly on the move, easily distracted, or struggling to stay organized? While many children are energetic and forgetful at times, ADHD is more than occasional inattention or high energy. In this episode of The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos, we explore the most common signs and symptoms of ADHD in children, how ADHD can look different from one child to another, and when it may be time to seek a professional evaluation. You'll learn how ADHD affects attention, executive functioning, emotional regulation, and daily life at home and school. We'll also discuss common misconceptions, why boys and girls may present differently, and what parents can do if they have concerns. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, teacher, or simply want to learn more about ADHD, this episode provides practical, research-informed guidance to help you better understand your child. About Dr. Juan Santos Dr. Juan Santos is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, educator, and founder of Santos Counseling in Greensboro, North Carolina. Through The Couch, he shares practical mental health education to help individuals, couples, and families move their wellness forward. Santos Counseling provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families in Greensboro, North Carolina. 📍 411 Dolley Madison Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 📞 336-663-6570 🌐 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.santoscounseling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Show Notes: In this episode, we discuss: • What ADHD actually is • The three presentations of ADHD • Common signs of inattentive ADHD • Signs of hyperactive and impulsive ADHD • Emotional symptoms parents often overlook • Executive functioning challenges • How ADHD appears differently in boys and girls • When behaviors become more than typical childhood development • When to consider an ADHD evaluation Key Takeaways ✅ ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition—not a result of poor parenting or laziness. ✅ Symptoms must affect multiple areas of life, such as home, school, or social relationships. ✅ Executive functioning challenges are often at the core of ADHD. ✅ Girls with ADHD are frequently overlooked because their symptoms may be less disruptive. ✅ Early identification and appropriate support can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

  4. Jul 20

    What Is Neurodivergent Therapy? Understanding Therapy That Works With Your Brain, Not Against It | Episode 63

    You've probably heard the term "neurodivergent" more often in recent years—but what does it actually mean? And how is neurodivergent-affirming therapy different from traditional counseling? In this episode of The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos, we explore what it means to be neurodivergent, who this term includes, and how therapy can be adapted to better support individuals whose brains process information differently. We'll discuss common misconceptions about ADHD, autism, dyslexia, OCD, and other neurodevelopmental differences, while explaining why effective therapy isn't about "fixing" someone—it's about understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself, parenting a neurodivergent child, supporting a loved one, or simply curious, this episode offers practical insights into a more compassionate and individualized approach to mental health. If this episode encouraged you as a parent, please: ⭐ Follow The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos ⭐ Leave a 5-star review ⭐ Share this episode with another parent who wants to raise confident, emotionally healthy children. If you're looking for counseling or parenting support in North Carolina, visit SantosCounseling.com to learn more about our team. Dr. Juan Santos is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, educator, and founder of Santos Counseling in Greensboro, North Carolina. Through The Couch, he shares practical, evidence-informed conversations about parenting, relationships, ADHD, and emotional wellness to help families move their wellness forward. Show Notes: In this episode, we discuss: • What "neurodivergent" actually means • Neurodiversity vs. neurodivergence • Conditions commonly included under the neurodivergent umbrella • Common myths about ADHD and autism • What neurodivergent-affirming therapy looks like • Why masking can become emotionally exhausting • Building on strengths instead of only focusing on deficits • Therapy adaptations that improve outcomes • Helping families better understand neurodivergence Key Takeaways ✅ Neurodivergent doesn't mean broken—it means the brain processes information differently. ✅ Every neurodivergent person has unique strengths and challenges. ✅ Effective therapy should adapt to the individual, not force the individual to fit one therapeutic style. ✅ Understanding sensory needs, executive functioning, communication styles, and emotional regulation can improve therapy outcomes. ✅ Self-understanding often leads to greater confidence, healthier relationships, and improved well-being.

  5. Jul 20

    Do Kids Need Struggle to Build Resilience? | Episode 62

    As parents, we naturally want to protect our children from pain, disappointment, and failure. But does shielding them from difficult experiences actually make it harder for them to become resilient? In this episode of The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos, we explore one of the most common parenting questions: Do children need hardship to develop resilience? The answer may surprise you. Research suggests that resilience doesn't come from trauma or suffering—it develops through supportive relationships, manageable challenges, opportunities to problem-solve, and the confidence that comes from overcoming obstacles. We'll discuss how parents can strike the balance between protecting their children and preparing them for life, helping them build confidence without exposing them to unnecessary adversity. Show Notes: In this episode, we discuss: • What resilience actually means • The difference between hardship and healthy challenges • Why children don't need trauma to become strong • The dangers of overprotective parenting • How "productive struggle" builds confidence • Letting children experience natural consequences • Teaching emotional regulation instead of rescuing • How parents can become a secure base for resilience • Practical ways to build resilient kids every day Key Takeaways ✅ Children do not need trauma to become resilient. ✅ Resilience develops through relationships before it develops through experiences. ✅ Age-appropriate challenges help children build confidence and independence. ✅ Allowing children to struggle safely teaches problem-solving and perseverance. ✅ The goal isn't to remove every obstacle—it's to help children learn they can overcome them. If this episode encouraged you as a parent, please: ⭐ Follow The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos ⭐ Leave a 5-star review ⭐ Share this episode with another parent who wants to raise confident, emotionally healthy children. If you're looking for counseling or parenting support in North Carolina, visit SantosCounseling.com to learn more about our team. About Dr. Juan Santos Dr. Juan Santos is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, educator, and founder of Santos Counseling in Greensboro, North Carolina. Through The Couch, he shares practical mental health education to help individuals, couples, and families move their wellness forward. Santos Counseling provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families in Greensboro, North Carolina. 📍 411 Dolley Madison Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 📞 336-663-6570 🌐 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.santoscounseling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  6. Jul 20

    Your First Counseling Session: What to Expect Before You Walk In | Episode 61

    Thinking about starting therapy but feeling nervous? You're not alone. One of the biggest reasons people delay counseling is simply because they don't know what to expect. In this episode of The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos, we walk through exactly what happens during your first counseling session—from the paperwork and introductions to discussing your concerns and creating goals for treatment. Whether you've never been to therapy before or it's been years since your last session, this episode will help you feel more prepared, informed, and confident about taking that first step. Remember: you don't have to have everything figured out before coming to counseling. Your therapist is there to help you navigate the journey. If this episode helped ease your concerns about therapy, please: ⭐ Follow The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos ⭐ Leave a 5-star review ⭐ Share this episode with someone who's thinking about starting counseling. If you're in North Carolina and are looking for therapy, visit SantosCounseling.com to learn more about our team and services. Show Notes: In this episode, you'll learn: • Why the first session feels different from future sessions • What paperwork you'll complete before therapy • How your therapist gets to know you • Common questions counselors ask • How treatment goals are created • What confidentiality means—and its important exceptions • What if you don't know where to start? • Tips for getting the most out of therapy • How to know if your therapist is a good fit Key Takeaways ✅ You don't need to have all the answers before starting therapy. ✅ Your first session is about understanding your story—not judging it. ✅ Therapy is a collaborative process built on trust and honesty. ✅ It's okay to feel nervous. Many people do before their first appointment. ✅ Finding the right therapist is one of the most important parts of successful counseling. About Dr. Juan Santos Dr. Juan Santos is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, educator, and founder of Santos Counseling in Greensboro, North Carolina. Through The Couch, he shares practical mental health education to help individuals, couples, and families move their wellness forward. Santos Counseling provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families in Greensboro, North Carolina. 📍 411 Dolley Madison Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 📞 336-663-6570 🌐 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.santoscounseling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  7. Jul 20

    Building Healthy Boundaries as an Adult: How to Protect Your Peace Without Feeling Guilty | Episode 60

    Do you struggle to say no? Feel responsible for everyone else's emotions? Constantly overextend yourself until you're exhausted? In this episode of The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos, we explore why healthy boundaries are one of the most important skills for emotional wellness. You'll learn why boundaries often feel uncomfortable, where unhealthy patterns begin, and practical strategies you can start using today with family, friends, coworkers, and even yourself. Whether you're recovering from people-pleasing, burnout, anxiety, or difficult relationships, this episode will help you create healthier relationships without losing your compassion. Santos Counseling provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families in Greensboro, North Carolina. 📍 411 Dolley Madison Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 📞 336-663-6570 🌐 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.santoscounseling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Show Notes: In today's episode, we discuss: • What boundaries actually are (and what they are not) • Why saying "no" creates guilt • Childhood experiences that shape adult boundaries • Signs your boundaries need work • Emotional, physical, and time boundaries • Scripts you can use to set healthy limits • Why healthy people respect boundaries • Building stronger relationships through clear expectations Practical steps you can begin today: ✅ Boundaries protect relationships—they don't destroy them. ✅ Feeling guilty doesn't necessarily mean you're doing something wrong. ✅ You teach others how to treat you through the boundaries you consistently maintain. ✅ Healthy boundaries reduce anxiety, resentment, and burnout. Listen to The Couch Podcast New episodes explore mental health, relationships, parenting, and emotional wellness. Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you found this episode helpful, please: ⭐ Follow The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos ⭐ Leave a 5-star review ⭐ Share this episode with someone learning to prioritize their mental health. Dr. Juan Santos is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, educator, and owner of Santos Counseling in Greensboro, North Carolina. Through practical conversations grounded in research and real clinical experience, he helps individuals, couples, and families move their wellness forward. About Dr. Juan Santos

  8. May 21

    How Your Attachment Style Is Shaping Your Relationships | Episode 59

    Did you know the way you were raised directly impacts how you love? In this episode of The Couch Podcast, Dr. Santos of Santos Counseling breaks down the 4 attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized, and how they quietly drive your relationship patterns. Whether you find yourself clinging, pulling away, or feeling chronically misunderstood, your attachment style may be the missing piece. We'll explore how childhood experiences shape adult relationships and what you can actually do to build more secure connections Connect with Santos Counseling Santos Counseling provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families in Greensboro, North Carolina. 📍 411 Dolley Madison Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 📞 336-663-6570 🌐 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.santoscounseling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen to The Couch Podcast New episodes explore mental health, relationships, parenting, and emotional wellness. Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you found this episode helpful, please: ⭐ Follow The Couch with Dr. Juan Santos ⭐ Leave a 5-star review ⭐ Share this episode with someone learning to prioritize their mental health. Dr. Juan Santos is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, educator, and owner of Santos Counseling in Greensboro, North Carolina. Through practical conversations grounded in research and real clinical experience, he helps individuals, couples, and families move their wellness forward. About Dr. Juan Santos

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Welcome to The Couch Podcast — where real therapists talk about real life. Hosted by Jacy King and Dr. Juan Santos, licensed mental health counselors in Greensboro, North Carolina, this podcast gives you practical tools and honest conversations to help you improve your mental health, relationships, and mindset—without the fluff. We cover the topics people struggle with most, including anxiety, stress, overthinking, burnout, ADHD, emotional shutdown, people pleasing, boundaries, communication, trauma, parenting stress, marriage after kids, self-worth, and healing patterns that keep repeating.

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