Self-Care Spending Trap: When Wellness Becomes Overconsumption

In this vulnerable episode of Nuance Needed, we dive deep into the messy reality of personal change, sharing Sam's recent cross-country move from Utah to Florida as a launching point to explore how real transformation happens. We discuss our professional and personal experiences with change, challenging the common misconception that change should feel good or comfortable. From Sam's enlightening moment in Kensington Gardens to our collective understanding of the five stages of change, we unpack why the "storm" of emotions - including anxiety, grief, and uncertainty - isn't a sign you're making the wrong choice, but rather evidence that you're doing the necessary work.We explore why people get stuck in the contemplation phase, constantly gathering data and waiting to feel "ready." Through personal stories and professional insights, we emphasize how change requires sitting with discomfort and learning to trust yourself, even when it feels counterintuitive. The conversation weaves between practical advice and deeper reflections on how societal expectations, especially for women, can keep us from honoring our true needs.Want to join the conversation? Call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.

In this episode, licensed therapists Amanda White and Sam Dalton, we explore the pervasive impact of all-or-nothing thinking in our digital world and how to find balance amidst the extremes. Through personal stories (including Sam's endearing confession about her fear of whales), we dive into how social media algorithms reward black-and-white thinking and extreme takes, making it challenging to maintain nuanced perspectives. We share our own struggles with content consumption - from Amanda's climate change spirals to Sam's political doom-scrolling - while acknowledging that even as therapists trained in recognizing cognitive distortions, we're not immune to these patterns. The conversation takes several amusing turns as we discuss our different ways of finding joy online, from Broadway content to Taylor Swift videos, while exploring deeper themes about hope, activism, and meaningful engagement. We examine how to shift from passive content consumption to active, intentional engagement with social media, and share practical strategies for maintaining mental well-being in our digital world. Along the way, we explore the importance of knowing your values and recognizing when you need to step back from overwhelming content. We wrap up with actionable homework for listeners about values exploration and challenging rigid thinking patterns. Have questions or topics you'd like us to discuss? Call our podcast hotline at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.

In this conversation, Amanda and Sam discuss the topic of whether or not to have children. They explore their own experiences and Amanda shares her perspective on being someone who was not sure if she wanted children and how she decided she wanted one. Now she shares her experience form the other side-- specifically the challenges and joys that come with it. We also touch on the importance of individual choice and the need to prioritize personal values and well-being when making decisions about having children. The conversation explores the challenges and decisions surrounding parenthood. It highlights the importance of having support, flexibility, and financial stability as a parent. We discuss the need for self-reflection and self-acceptance when making decisions about parenthood and emphasize that there is no right or wrong choice. We encourage listeners to give themselves breathing room and make choices that align with their values and desires. If you would like more on this topic, find Amanda's substack "Fence Sitter". https://amandaewhite.substack.com/. If you would like us to answer your question call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy and get on one of our waitlists, reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.

In this episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW delve into the complexities of being single in today's society. We discuss the cultural shift towards women choosing to remain single, the empowerment that comes with financial independence, and the challenges of navigating relationships while maintaining personal ambition. As some may know, Sam has been single for a long time, while Amanda is married, so this conversation is a really great balance of sharing Sam's best tips on how to enjoy your life being single (even if you want a partner), while also sharing with Amanda what she wishes her partnered friends knew. Our conversation highlights the importance of self-discovery, finding fulfillment in one's own life, and embracing vulnerability. We touch on societal expectations and the loneliness that can accompany being single, ultimately encouraging listeners to focus on their own desires and aspirations. We also discuss the complexities of navigating different seasons of life, the importance of embracing the present moment, and the challenges of loneliness and societal pressures. They discuss how to build a fulfilling life, maintain friendships through changes, and the reality of negative emotions that persist regardless of life circumstances. As always, we embrace this topic with a whole lot of nuance and really think this episode will benefit whether you are single or partnered!

In this episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW delve into the complex topic of family estrangement, exploring its rising prevalence among younger generations and its seeming trend on social media. We discuss the generational differences in parenting styles, the impact of trauma, and the importance of accountability and repair in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the validity of individual experiences and the emotional layers involved in the decision to go no contact with family members. In this conversation, we explore into the complexities of family relationships, particularly focusing on the concept of 'no contact' as a potential solution for those struggling with difficult familial dynamics and what you should think about if you have been toying with going no contact or low contact with your own family. We discuss the nuances of estrangement, the importance of current relationships, and the emotional toll that decisions regarding family can take. We emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all answer and give suggestions for how you can engage in careful consideration and self-reflection. We also touch on the impact of social media on family dynamics and the importance of setting boundaries while navigating these relationships. As always, we explore this controversial topic with a whole lot of nuance. Enjoy!

In this emergency episode of the Nuance Needed Podcast, Amanda and Sam discuss their emotional responses to the recent election results, exploring themes of grief, coping strategies, and the impact of social media on mental health. We answer your questions that you submitted such as "how do I tell my kids what happened?", "what do I do about people in my life who voted for Trump?" "how do I go on if I feel like I can't go on?" and "how can I find hope?". We emphasize the importance of acknowledging feelings and how to take care of yourself right now. The conversation also delves into the historical context of America's political landscape, reminding you that the current situation is not new but rather a continuation of ongoing struggles for equity and justice. We discuss the role of action in combating anxiety, and the power of community in fostering connection. We hope this helps you feel a little less alone. We appreciate you! If you are interested in seeing a therapist at Therapy for Women Center, we have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country with 3 offices in the Philadelphia area. We would love to support you during this time. Reach out to therapyforwomencenter.com for more information. If you would like to connect with us be sure to follow us on Instagram or Tiktok @TherapyforWomen and @Sam.The.TherapistTo call into the podcast or ask us a question or leave us feedback, call and leave a message at 813-444-8683

If you can believe it we have EVEN MORE TO SAY about wellness TikTok trends. In this bonus episode, Amanda and Sam revisit their previous discussion on TikTok trends, particularly focusing on how it can be even more confusing on social media when real doctors and licensed providers have products and are the ones sharing information. We explore the implications of self-tanner usage, the overwhelming nature of social media trends, and the impact of consumerism on personal style. The conversation also touches on the dangers of following influencer trends without critical assessment. Finally, Amanda shares a story about decorative trash can covers and how the company came after her for talking about them on instagram. If you would like us to answer your question call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy and get on one of our waitlists, reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.

We have a bit of a lighter episode planned this week and second part coming tomorrow in order to help distract you and keep you company during this election week! In this conversation, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW discuss the frustration and misinformation surrounding wellness trends and beauty standards. They highlight the dangers of believing in made-up terms like 'cortisol face' and the pressure to constantly fix perceived flaws. They emphasize the importance of seeking professional advice and being mindful of the content we consume. The conversation also touches on the need for self-discipline, self-awareness, and the acceptance of our natural human experiences. In this conversation, Sam and Amanda discuss the culture of overconsumption and the pressure to constantly buy products in order to improve our lives. They explore the idea that many of these products are unnecessary and can actually contribute to stress and anxiety. They encourage listeners to pause and reflect on their purchasing habits, asking themselves why they feel drawn to certain products and whether they truly need them. They also share their own impulsive and regrettable purchases, highlighting the importance of being intentional with our spending. If you would like us to answer your question call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy and get on one of our waitlists, reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.

Licensed therapists, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW have a conversation about the public's reaction to celebrity relationships and breakups, focusing on the recent reunion and divorce of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck. It delves into the pressure and expectations placed on celebrities and the projection of our own desires onto their relationships. The hosts discuss the impact of social media and the creation of parasocial relationships, where we feel connected to celebrities despite not knowing them personally. They also touch on the need for permanence in relationships and the challenges of navigating public perception. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of recognizing our own attachments and understanding that celebrity relationships do not define our own experiences. In this conversation, Sam and Amanda discuss the complexities of being single and the grief that can come with it. They explore the concept of parasocial relationships and how they can both validate and challenge our life choices. If you would like us to answer your question call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy and get on one of our waitlists, reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.

Licensed therapists Sam Dalton, LCSW and Amanda White, LPC explore the challenges of navigating mental health content on social media and the importance of discernment. They highlight the need to focus on basic self-care before diving into niche trends. They discuss the impact of social media on mental health and the difficulty of finding accurate and helpful information. They emphasize the importance of therapy in exploring emotions and finding deeper meaning behind diagnoses. They also discuss the limitations of coaches compared to licensed therapists in providing comprehensive support. In this conversation, Sam and Amanda discuss the challenges of navigating social media and the overwhelming amount of content available. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion in managing the impact of social media on mental health. They also highlight the need to set realistic goals and make small changes to avoid feeling overwhelmed. If you would like us to answer your question call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda (@Therapyforwomen) To learn more about therapy and get on one of our waitlists, reach out to Therapy for Women Center, therapyforwomencenter.com. We have therapists licensed in 43 states across the country and have offices if you are local to the Philadelphia area.