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For those living with CPTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder), you know what it is like to experience reality in a way that others often do not understand. It can feel like an upside-down experience shaped by an upside-down childhood—one in which you had to continually reorient yourself to navigate a painful, unpredictable, or unsafe emotional landscape.

In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri discuss how chronic and complex traumatic experiences can lead to the development of protective nervous system responses. The nervous system learns to anticipate danger, detect potential threats, and brace for the emotional “tripwires” associated with past trauma.

Although these responses may have been necessary for survival, the anticipation of past trauma can later interfere with a person’s ability to feel safe in healthy environments. Hope can feel terrifying. Emotional numbness can feel safer than vulnerability. Relationships can feel uncomfortable or threatening because allowing another person to hold emotional power may seem ineffective, dangerous, or unreasonable when safety was repeatedly withheld during childhood.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri explore strategies for understanding and navigating these experiences through thoughtful discussion, relatable analogies, and validation of the core pain points associated with CPTSD.

We would love to hear your thoughts and have you become part of our growing community. Make sure to like the episode, subscribe to the channel, leave a comment, and join our Patreon for additional conversations and resources.

This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individualized mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment.

#CPTSD #ComplexPTSD #ComplexTrauma #ChildhoodTrauma #TraumaHealing #NervousSystemRegulation #MentalHealth #EmotionalHealing #TraumaRecovery #AttachmentTrauma #InnerChildHealing #PsychologyPodcast #TherapyPodcast #HealingJourney #EmotionalNeglect

CPTSD, complex PTSD, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, CPTSD symptoms, CPTSD healing, childhood trauma, childhood emotional neglect, trauma recovery, trauma healing, nervous system regulation, trauma response, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, fear of hope, attachment trauma, relationship trauma, childhood survival responses, healing the nervous system, how trauma affects relationships, why healthy relationships feel unsafe, feeling safer when numb, complex trauma podcast, psychology podcast, mental health podcast, Dr. Jacob Ambrose, Dr. Vincent Barbieri

Dr. Vincent Barbieri and Dr. Jacob Ambrose answer live questions from patreon subscribers during this episode. If you'd like to join the next live feed then make sure to subscribe to our patreon

https://www.patreon.com/2dudestalkintherapy

#therapy #podcast #psychology #adhd #nervoussystemregulation #neurodivergent #cptsd #traumainformed #selfhelp

Catch the full episdoe by subscribing to our patreon! A lot of conversations about men today fall into two extremes.

On one side, men are told their struggles are simply privilege.On the other side, the manosphere tells men the world is against them and they need to dominate it to be worth anything.

Neither path actually heals men.

In this video we talk about the men who often go unseen — the ones quietly dealing with shame, rejection sensitivity, attachment wounds, and the pressure to appear strong even when they feel completely alone.

We explore how these patterns form psychologically, why so many men struggle with intimacy and emotional expression, and what real healing actually looks like.

This conversation is about responsibility without shame, strength without emotional suppression, and building a healthier model of masculinity that allows men to grow instead of collapse into resentment or silence.

If you’re a man trying to understand yourself better — or someone who wants to better understand the men in your life — this conversation is for you.

#MensMentalHealth#Masculinity#MaleLoneliness#AttachmentTheory#Psychology#MentalHealthForMen#ModernMasculinity#MalePsychology#EmotionalHealth#SelfDevelopment

​What does good therapy vs. bad therapy actually look like inside the therapy room?In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri open an important conversation about the role of discomfort in therapy—and why discomfort can sometimes signal growth, while other times it may signal that something in the process may not be working.We explore how therapists can serve as a strong psychological container for their clients: not rushing to intervene out of anxiety or filling silence out of discomfort, but also not abandoning direction entirely.Good therapy often lives in the balance between two tensions:• Comfort with stillness and uncertainty• Maintaining a clear intention and treatment directionWhen therapists can hold both, the therapy space becomes a place where meaningful change can happen.If you’ve ever wondered what healthy therapy dynamics should feel like—or how to recognize when something isn’t quite right—this conversation is for you.🎧 Tune in and share your thoughts in the comments.#therapy #psychology #mentalhealth #psychotherapy #therapist #therapyinsights #mentalhealtheducation #psychologydiscussion #therapyprocess #healingjourney #goodtherapy #badtherapy #therapytalks

Why do so many high-achieving people still feel like they’re not good enough?

In this conversation, Dr. Vincent Barbieri and Dr. Jacob Ambrose revisit the powerful topic of shame — the quiet psychological force that can persist even when someone is successful, capable, and respected across multiple areas of life.

Shame often operates beneath awareness, shaping how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and why accomplishments sometimes fail to bring the sense of worth we expected. In this episode, we explore why shame is so persistent, how it develops, and why it can continue affecting people long after the environments that created it are gone.

We also discuss practical strategies for recognizing shame patterns and beginning the process of loosening their grip.

In this video we cover: • Why shame can persist even in highly successful people • How early experiences shape internal beliefs about worth • Why achievement alone rarely resolves shame • The difference between guilt and shame • Psychological insights into why shame is so hard to overcome • Practical tips for recognizing and working through shame patterns

If you’ve ever struggled with feeling like you’re not enough despite doing well in life, this conversation will help you better understand what’s happening beneath the surface.

Watch the full discussion to learn why shame is so hard to beat — and what you can start doing about it.

#psychology #shame #mentalhealth #selfworth #psychotherapy #trauma #impostersyndrome #healing #therapy #psychologypodcast #emotionalhealth #selfesteem #mentalhealthawareness

Watch the full episode on our Patreon!: patreon.com/2dudestalkintherapyYouTube CaptionWhat actually makes someone emotionally immature?In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri (fire and ice)-- take a deep dive into one of the most confusing dynamics in relationships: navigating emotionally immature people.Many people assume emotional immaturity is about intelligence, competence, or education — but the reality is much deeper. In this conversation, Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri break down why accountability is often the real dividing line between emotional maturity and emotional immaturity.You’ll learn how emotionally immature individuals tend to avoid responsibility, distort reality, and externalize blame — patterns often seen in dynamics involving narcissistic traits, histrionic behavior, and other high-conflict personality styles.The discussion also focuses on the practical side:• How to recognize emotionally immature behavior early• Why accountability is more important than competence in relationships• How emotionally immature people manipulate narratives• The psychological patterns behind narcissistic and histrionic behavior• Boundaries and strategies for navigating difficult personalities• How to protect your own mental health when dealing with emotionally immature peopleWhether you’re dealing with these patterns in romantic relationships, family systems, friendships, or the workplace, this episode offers a clear psychological framework for understanding what’s really happening beneath the surface.If you've ever walked away from a conversation feeling confused, blamed, or emotionally drained — this discussion will help you understand why.Educational purposes only.#Psychology #EmotionalMaturity #Narcissism #EmotionalImmaturity #MentalHealth #TherapyInsights #PsychologyPodcast #Boundaries #Relationships #PersonalGrowth

Dating is difficult when you have anxious attachment because you hold high amounts of emotional investment and the stakes feel too high. The moment you start to care, your nervous system shifts. Your prediction model from childhood — built on past attachment wounds — becomes distorted, anticipating rejection, distance, or loss even when the present moment doesn’t justify it.Every human being has a nervous system wired through experience. Those experiences create a prediction model about how to respond to reality. If your early relationships taught you that closeness was inconsistent or unsafe, your system may now default to hyper-activation: overthinking texts, feeling rejection sensitivity, chasing reassurance, or experiencing limerence the second chemistry appears.You can function well with friends. You can seem secure in many areas of life. But once you become emotionally invested in dating, that’s when the old wiring takes over.In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri break down anxious attachment, ADHD high-activation patterns, rejection sensitivity, and limerence — and most importantly, how to update and rewire your nervous system so you can respond to relationships based on the present, not the past.Rewiring is possible — but awareness alone isn’t enough. Tune in.#anxiousattachment #attachmenttheory #datingadvice #relationshipanxiety #adhdrelationships #adhd #rejectionsensitivity #limerence #attachmentwounds #nervoussystem #emotionalregulation #secureattachment #datinghelp #psychology #traumahealing

In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri break down the full psychology of codependency—what it actually is, how it forms, and why it can feel so intense and hard to leave.

We cover:
• The core traits of codependency
• How to know if you’re in a codependent relationship
• The difference between love and emotional fusion
• Why anxiety, control, and self-abandonment fuel the cycle
• How childhood attachment patterns shape adult dynamics
• Practical steps to begin healing
• How to know when repair is possible—and when it may be time to walk away

If you’ve ever felt responsible for someone else’s emotions, terrified of abandonment, or stuck in a relationship that feels both intoxicating and draining—this episode is for you.

Real healing isn’t about becoming cold or detached. It’s about building a nervous system that can love without losing itself.

#codependency #codpendencyrecovery #couplestherapy #attachmentstyles #anxiousattachment #avoidantattachment #relationshiphealing #relationshipadvice #traumabond #emotionalregulation #mentalhealth #psychology #therapy #selfgrowth #relationshippatterns

In this episode of Two Dudes Talkin’ Therapy, Dr. Vincent Barbieri and Dr. Jacob Ambrose explore how trauma shapes attachment patterns and why our relationships can feel so intense, confusing, or painful — even when we deeply want connection.

We break down how trauma impacts the three insecure attachment styles:

• Anxious attachment — marked by a heightened fear of abandonment, hyper-vigilance to relational cues, and a nervous system that stays on high alert for signs of disconnection. Anxious attachers often crave closeness but feel chronically unsafe in relationships.

• Avoidant attachment — shaped by early experiences where emotional needs were unmet or discouraged, leading to self-reliance, emotional suppression, and discomfort with vulnerability. Avoidant attachers may value independence while feeling overwhelmed by emotional closeness.

• Fearful-avoidant (disorganized) attachment — often rooted in relational trauma where connection itself felt unsafe. This attachment style is characterized by a push-pull dynamic: longing for intimacy while simultaneously fearing it, resulting in cycles of closeness and withdrawal.

Throughout the conversation, we connect attachment theory with trauma, the nervous system, and real-world relational patterns — moving beyond labels to explain why these responses develop and how they’re reinforced over time.

Most importantly, we discuss how secure attachment can be earned, including strategies for nervous system regulation, building emotional safety, repairing relational ruptures, setting boundaries, and creating corrective emotional experiences inside and outside of relationships.

If you’ve ever felt stuck repeating the same patterns in relationships — or wondered why love can feel so destabilizing — this episode offers clarity, depth, and a path forward.

👉 Catch the full, extended conversation by subscribing to our Patreon: Two Dudes Talkin’ Therapy

The topic of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often starts from a negative, deficit-based perspective. In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri dismantle the common deficit model of ADHD, highlighting that ADHD is not simply an attention “deficit,” but rather a complex way of thinking that can reach extreme heights through creativity and imagination.

Hyperactivity goes far beyond impulsive or “problem” behavior—it can represent potential energy, passion, and drive when properly understood and supported. This episode explores how many commonly cited ADHD symptoms—impulsivity, executive dysfunction, and difficulties with focus—are often better explained by environmental stressors and the challenges of living in a neurotypical world, rather than by the diagnosis alone.

Finally, Dr. Jacob and Dr. Vincent dive into how to unlock the full potential of ADHD neurodivergence—potential that is often misunderstood, suppressed, or overlooked in a neurotypical society. Watch the full episode to discover why ADHD can be a powerful strength, how this “superpower” gets missed, and what it looks like when ADHD is truly supported.

#ADHD
#ADHDAwareness
#Neurodivergent
#Neurodiversity
#ADHDAdults
#ADHDBrain
#ExecutiveDysfunction
#MentalHealth
#PsychologyPodcast
#ADHDStrengths
#ADHDMind
#ADHDReframed
#ADHDLife
#Neurotypical
#ADHDSuperpower

In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri dive into the trending topic of going no contact with family, partners, or loved ones. With clarity and compassion, we unpack why this trend has taken off, when going no contact can be psychologically healthy, and when it can unintentionally reinforce fear, trauma, or emotional avoidance. You’ll learn how to set boundaries without losing your sense of self, how to maintain emotional balance during separation, and how to tell the difference between protecting yourself and running from unresolved pain. This episode offers both a grounded psychological framework and deep validation for those who have chosen—or are considering—the path of no contact.Make sure to support the channel, subscribe to our Patreon! patreon.com/2dudestalkintherapy#NoContact #Boundaries #Healing #TraumaHealing #AttachmentStyles #FamilyEstrangement #MentalHealth #TherapyTalk #PsychologyPodcast #EmotionalSafety #ToxicRelationships #SelfProtection

Subscribe to our patron to access the full episode!!-- https://www.patreon.com/posts/become-securely-145864142On this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri break down the ins and outs of secure attachment—and how to actually build it.Whether you identify as securely attached or notice patterns of anxious, avoidant, or fearful-avoidant (disorganized) attachment, this conversation is relevant to you. The truth is, all of us carry some degree of insecurity, and we tend to lean toward different attachment strategies depending on stress, relationships, and life experiences.In this episode, we explore:What secure attachment really looks like in real lifeWhy even “secure” people can feel anxious or avoidant at timesHow anxious, avoidant, and fearful-avoidant patterns developPractical, actionable techniques to move toward greater securityThis discussion is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health treatment.#SecureAttachment #AttachmentStyles #AttachmentTheory #AnxiousAttachment #AvoidantAttachment #FearfulAvoidant #DisorganizedAttachment #RelationshipPsychology #PsychologyPodcast #MentalHealthEducation #HealingAttachment #EmotionalSafety #HealthyRelationships #TherapyTalk #psychologyexplained #attachmenttheory

On this episode. Dr. Jacob and Dr. Vincent Barbieri talk about the differences and overlap between ADHD and Complex Trauma. They begin by describing how CPTSD is a more outcome focused kind of diagnosis whereas ADHD is more centered on mechanical like differences. They then cover midway what it feels like to have ADHD and Complex Trauma, validating the experience of both. Finally healing with these diagnoses are disucssed later on in the episode. #complextrauma #adhd #therapy #mentalhealth #podcast #psychology

In this episode, we explore the emotions of attachment and how our early relational experiences shape the way we express—and suppress—core emotions throughout adulthood. We begin by examining the early origins of attachment, including how parental responses to our emotional needs influence the development of our internal working models.From there, we break down anxious, avoidant, and fearful/disorganized attachment styles and look closely at how each style tends to express or inhibit four foundational emotions: anger, sadness, shame, and fear.You’ll learn why anxious attachment often amplifies emotional signals, why avoidant attachment turns emotions inward or shuts them down, and how fearful attachment creates an inner conflict between wanting closeness and fearing it.This episode is designed to help you recognize your emotional patterns, understand where they came from, and begin shifting toward more secure expression.#AttachmentTheory #AnxiousAttachment #AvoidantAttachment #DisorganizedAttachment #EmotionalHealth #Psychology #InnerChildWork #AttachmentStyles #MentalHealthEducation #TherapyContent

Navigating Emotionally Immature Parents

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri dive deep into the nature, impact, and healing process of generational trauma. Together, they explore how family systems often unconsciously maintain cycles of pain through what they call “the weapon of unconscious normalization” — the quiet passing down of wounds disguised as traditions, beliefs, or emotional patterns.

The conversation also delves into the genetic underpinnings of inherited trauma — how our biology can carry echoes of past generations’ experiences — and how awareness of these patterns can empower change rather than determine fate.

Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri then shift toward hope and healing, discussing practical ways to open the door to intergenerational recovery — steps you can take to transform your own family legacy, nurture emotional safety, and build a foundation of wellbeing for future generations.

Whether you’re a therapist, a parent, or someone seeking deeper understanding of your roots, this episode offers both science and soul — a conversation about remembering, repairing, and releasing what no longer serves you.

Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri explore the underlying aspects of OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)—what it truly feels like to live with it. They discuss common struggles, misconceptions, and evidence-based ways to navigate OCD more effectively. #OCD #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #MentalHealthPodcast #IntrusiveThoughts #CBT #ERP #TherapyForOCD #AnxietyRelief #DrJacobAmbrose #DrVincentBarbieri #RestorePsychology #PsychologyPodcast #selfhelp

Full episode on patreon youtube account -- "two dudes talkin therapy".

Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri cover the definition, impact, and healing process for Complex Post Traumatic Stress in this episode. All content as always is intended for educational purposes only rather than a replacement for therapy.

In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri dive into the lived experience of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). They unpack the unique struggles of BPD, explore the heavy stigma that surrounds it, and discuss how this stigma can—and should—be challenged.The conversation then shifts into how BPD can intersect with anxious attachment and other forms of neurodivergence such as Autism, revealing the complex ways personality, attachment, and neurological differences can overlap.Finally, Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri share strategies for healing when living with BPD—offering insights for individuals, loved ones, and clinicians alike.Tune in for a thoughtful, compassionate, and stigma-breaking conversation. #BPD #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #AnxiousAttachment #Neurodivergence #Autism #MentalHealth #PsychologyPodcast #Healing #Therapy

In this video, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri dive deep into the topic of perfectionism—and in the second part, its connection to OCD. They cover the theory and development of perfectionism, how it begins in childhood, how it shows up in adulthood, and practical tips for healing. Finally, they explore how perfectionism feeds into OCD at both the environmental and genetic levels.You’ll also hear insights on why intuition often feels like the “enemy” of perfectionism, and how leaving perfectionism behind can help break the cycle.Tune in, and let us know what you’d like to learn more about!#Perfectionism #OCD #MentalHealth #Psychology #Therapy #Healing #PersonalGrowth #ADHDandOCD #InnerCritic #AnxietyHelp #CognitiveBehavioralTherapy #PerfectionismRecovery #OCDRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #TherapistExplains

• ​Join Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri in this hilarious yet deeply insightful episode of 2 Dudes Talkin’ Therapy Podcast. We dive into the roots of anxiety—starting with the hidden, negative core beliefs that fuel it—and break down how your thoughts unknowingly keep the anxiety cycle alive.From practical strategies to challenge anxious thinking to a surprising twist into shadow work, we explore why anxiety can make you more selfish (for the sake of self-preservation)… and how tapping into healthy anger, carefree attitudes, and even a little selfishness can actually make you less self-centered in the long run.We also unpack how “turning off awareness” in specific moments can disrupt anxiety’s grip—leading to more freedom, generosity, and inner calm. This is psychology, self-help, and comedy rolled into one episode you won’t want to miss.🎙 What you’ll learn in this episode:How core beliefs form the foundation of anxietyWhy your own thoughts keep the cycle goingShadow work insights you’ve probably never heard beforeHow shifting your emotional state changes your relationship with anxietyWhy humor is one of the most underrated therapy toolsIf you’ve ever felt stuck in your head, overthinking, or too tightly wound, this conversation might just change how you approach anxiety forever.📌 Subscribe for more therapy, psychology, and mindset episodes: [ @talkintherapy ]#AnxietyRelief #TherapyPodcast #HealingAnxiety #ShadowWork #CoreBeliefs #MentalHealth #AnxietyHelp #StopOverthinking #MindsetShift #PsychologyPodcast #AnxietyTips #EmotionalHealth #TherapyHumor #OverthinkingHelp #PodcastClip #selfhelp #selfimprovement

On this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri go into detail about what fearful and/or disorganized attachment truly is and how to go about working towards secure attachment if you have a fearful attachment style. In this episode, you'll come to understand the real experience of someone with fearful attachment and hopefully begin to understand why someone with fearful attachment operates within the world in the way they do. This episode offers understanding for a group that often goes misunderstood, along with practical ways to go about adjusting to create more secure attachment. As always, this content is intended for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for therapy.

Tune into this episode where Dr. Jacob and Dr. Vincent Barbieri describe the most effective ways to regulate and rewire your nervous system, especially when you have issues in the realm of attachment and trauma. Ways of healing anxious attachment, healing avoidant attachment, and healing dismissive avoidant (or fearful attachment) are discussed in great length through the use of analogies and practical tools

patreon.com/2dudestalkintherapy subscribe for exclusive content!#nervoussystemregulation #anxiousattachment #attachmenttheory #therapy #psychology #drjay #drv

​ @talkintherapy In this conversation, clinical psychologists Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri break down the real meaning of self-esteem — beyond surface-level affirmations and quick-fix advice.You'll learn:What self-esteem actually is (and what it isn't)Why many people struggle to build lasting self-worthThe difference between self-esteem and self-confidenceHow childhood experiences shape our self-esteem wiringPractical, evidence-based strategies to cultivate genuine self-worth over timeForget the “fake it till you make it” approach. This is a deep dive into the psychology of self-esteem, including how attachment, core beliefs, and emotional regulation all play a role. Whether you're struggling with perfectionism, shame, imposter syndrome, or insecurity, this video offers a roadmap to more authentic confidence.-- as always all content is intended for educational purposes only rather than a replacement for therapy. 👉 Subscribe for more content on mental health, personal growth, and attachment theory.#selfesteem #confidence #howtobuildselfesteem #mentalhealth #selfworth #attachmenttheory #overcominginsecurity #healingjourney #therapytools #selfconfidence #psychologytips #personaldevelopment #impostersyndrome #selflove #anxiety #depression #selfgrowth #cbt #mindsetshift #emotionalhealing #innerchildwork

Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri review what Anxious Attachment is and how to heal it in this episode.

Tune in to Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri's episode on Social Anxiety. This clip includes the defining features of Anxiety and Social Anxiety as well as tools on navigating it.

Dr. Jacob Ambrose And Dr. Vincent Barbieri Discuss How To Heal Avoidant Attachment

Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri continue their discussion on Narcissism

Welcome to Part 2 of our two-part series on Attachment Theory with Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri!In this episode, we dive deeper into the practical side of healing attachment wounds. Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri outline specific, research-backed ways to heal anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, fearful attachment, and even the complex anxious-avoidant dynamics.We also explore how attachment styles influence dating and relationships, offering real strategies for building healthier emotional connections.If you missed Part 1, make sure to watch Episode 5 first — it lays the foundation for understanding the basics of attachment styles.Whether you're navigating your own healing journey, dating, or working on strengthening a committed relationship, this episode offers crucial insights you can start applying today.🔵 Topics covered:How to heal anxious attachmentHow to heal avoidant attachmentHow to heal fearful attachmentNavigating anxious-avoidant relationship patternsBuilding secure attachment in dating and long-term relationships

Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri discuss ADHD in terms of the definition of the diagnosis, the experience, treatment, and comorbidity. Tune in for great insights, and as always, this podcast material is for educational purposes only rather than a replacement for therapy.

In this insightful video, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri lead a comprehensive discussion on narcissism. They dive into the complexities of this personality trait, shedding light on its definition and common misconceptions, such as the surprising truth that narcissists are deeply suffering on the inside without even realizing it.The video also explores how narcissism compares to other mental health diagnoses, like Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), addressing both the similarities and differences between them. If you’re in a relationship with a narcissist, they offer valuable and practical advice on how to navigate this difficult dynamic and provide practical steps for ending the relationship safely and healthily.Finally, the discussion turns to the narcissists themselves—what if you are the narcissist? Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri talk about how to begin the healing process and take the first steps toward healthier relationships and self-awareness.Tune in for a deep dive into understanding narcissism from two experts in the field, offering you the tools to recognize, address, and heal from narcissistic behavior.

Check out our latest podcast episode featuring myself, Dr. Jacob Ambrose, and Dr. Vincent Barbieri as we dive into the complexities of understanding and addressing Anxious, Avoidant, and Fearful Attachment styles. In this episode, you'll get clear, easy-to-understand explanations of each attachment style—Anxious, Avoidant, Fearful, and Secure—making the psychology behind them accessible even for those new to the topic.

In the first few minutes, you’ll be equipped with foundational knowledge to confidently discuss attachment theory. But the episode, in my opinion, really gets interesting as we focus on practical, actionable strategies for healing Anxious, Avoidant, and Fearful attachment patterns. We also share a simple yet powerful technique specifically designed for couples navigating Anxious and Avoidant attachment dynamics.

By popular demand, we explore the impact of ADHD on attachment and how it shapes relationship patterns, offering fresh insights. Finally, for our therapist audience, we offer valuable tools and feedback on how to fine-tune your approach when working with attachment-related concerns.

Throughout the conversation, we balance the depth of these topics with humor and lighthearted moments, making it both informative and enjoyable. A special shoutout to Dr. Vincent Barbieri, who adds character to the episode through his clever use of movie references—though, admittedly I, Dr. Jacob Ambrose, remain clueless about most of them! 

Disclaimer: Please note that all content shared by this podcast, or any other related media, is intended for educational purposes only and not as a replacement for professional support or treatment. While this content may resonate with you, unique concerns in your relationships may require the care and attention of a licensed professional. 

Dr. J and Dr. V go over the underpinnings of fear and also provides helpful tools for better understanding and working with fear and anxiety.

Complex PTSD in all its complexity is discussed in this episode. Catch the first 20 minutes of this episode to learn how CPTSD alters your overall sense of self while also distorts your perception of reality. In this episode the consequences of CPTSD-- dissociation, loss of identity, emotional dysregulation, numbing, etc. are discussed in great detail as well and while healing is nuanced solutions are also covered. For the full episode make sure to subscribe to our patreon! #cptsd #therapy #ptsd #trauma #complextrauma

Join psychologists Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri in this insightful episode as they explore the intricate dynamics of relationships through the lenses of shame, anxiety, and men's issues. Discover how these emotions shape connections and learn practical strategies for fostering healthier interactions. The conversation also touches on the role of spirituality in personal growth and meaningful relationships. Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue that will enhance your understanding of human connections!

In this insightful episode of Anger: Drop the Sword, licensed psychologists Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri dive deep into the complex emotion of anger. Often misunderstood and stigmatized, anger is a powerful feeling that can be both constructive and destructive. Join Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri as they unravel the layers of this intense emotion, exploring its psychological roots and impact on mental health.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri discuss the purpose of anger, its role in personal and relational dynamics, and the ways it manifests in different contexts. They share practical strategies for managing anger healthily and constructively, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• The underpinnings of anger.
• How anger can be a signal for underlying issues and needs.
• Techniques for expressing anger in ways that promote growth rather than conflict.
• The impact of anger on relationships and strategies for navigating it in interpersonal situations.

Welcome to "Talkin Therapist" where two licensed clinical psychologists, Dr. Jacob Ambrose, PhD and Dr. Vincent Barbieri, PhD provide their insights on all things therapy, with a twist of humor and a sprinkle of therapeutic wisdom! Join us as we demystify the world of counseling, offering valuable insights and practical knowledge

In this episode, Dr. Vincent Barbieri and Dr. Jacob Ambrose explore spirituality through the lens of psychology and the whole person. They discuss how attachment theory connects with Christianity, Zen spirituality, emotional health, and the deeper search for meaning.

This vulnerable conversation blends philosophy, spiritual belief, and psychological insight—offering a thoughtful look at how our inner world shapes the way we connect with ourselves, others, and God. #spirituality #psychology #therapy #attachment #zen #philosophy

In this episode, Dr. Jacob and Dr. Vincent take a deep dive into the concept of vulnerability. The episode begins with a personal and vulnerable story from Jacob and Vinny, then moves into the nuances of healthy versus unhealthy vulnerability.

They also discuss the weaponization of vulnerability, especially as it relates to the struggles many people experience with anxious attachment.

Finally, vulnerability is explored in a way that challenges the common assumption that being vulnerable always means “sharing more” or “expressing more.” Instead, vulnerability is framed as the discomfort of moving away from familiar patterns that keep us protected. From this perspective, sharing more can be a form of self-protection for some people and an act of vulnerability for others.

Share your thoughts, and make sure to subscribe to our channel!

#Vulnerability #HealthyVulnerability #EmotionalVulnerability #AnxiousAttachment #AttachmentStyles #AttachmentTheory #Relationships #DatingAdvice #MentalHealth #Therapy #Psychology #TherapistsOfInstagram #EmotionalHealth #SelfProtection #HealingJourney #TwoDudesTalkinTherapy #DrJacobAmbrose #DrVincentBarbieri

Watch to learn how to stop overthinking! In addition during this episode we cover the roots of overthinking, some of the maintaining factors, along with the most common shadow wounds of many who overthink. The full episode can be found on our Patreon account. Make sure to subscribe to get this episode and more exclusive content, and finally as a way to support our work! Thanks Yall! 

#overthinking #psychologypodcast #anxiety #selfhelp 

In this episode we cover the subject of being seen. What does being seen in relationships actually look like? A key distinction made in this episode is the difference between simple validation and truly seeing another individual. The struggles of those with Borderline Personality Disorder are also covered as it relates to often feeling unseen and invalidated across contexts. Make sure to subscribe for our exclusive content!

What actually drives attraction?

In this episode, Dr. Jacob Ambrose and Dr. Vincent Barbieri explore the deeper psychology behind attraction, dating dynamics, and the hidden forces that shape who we pursue in relationships.

The conversation begins by breaking down the core psychological and biological drivers of attraction—including the emotional and nervous system signals that influence who we feel drawn to. From there, the discussion moves into some of the most common mistakes people make while dating, including why people repeatedly fall for unhealthy partners such as narcissistic or avoidant types.

A major theme of this episode is a powerful idea: safety is the prerequisite for attraction. Many men unintentionally undermine attraction by signaling instability, emotional reactivity, or pressure—dynamics that can activate a woman’s threat detection system rather than her attraction system.

Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Barbieri also explore:

• Why attraction often develops around emotional safety, not just confidence
• Why people repeatedly fall for narcissistic or avoidant partners
• The psychological mistakes many men make when trying to attract women
• Why nervous system regulation matters in dating
• The hidden dynamics of anxious and avoidant attachment styles
• How safety, attraction, and emotional signals interact in relationships

Using pop culture references, real-world examples, and psychological frameworks, this episode walks through the most common relational patterns people experience while dating—and how understanding them can change the way we approach attraction and relationships.

If you’ve ever wondered why attraction feels confusing, unpredictable, or painful, this conversation will give you a deeper lens into what’s actually happening beneath the surface.

Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what topics you'd like us to explore next.

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