Welcome to Ask Kati Anything, the podcast where your mental health questions find real answers. Kati Morton, LMFT, brings 12+ years of experience as a licensed therapist, published author and trusted voice in the mental health community. Exploring topics like anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, trauma, and more. Join in for inspiration, motivation, and empowerment on the journey to better mental health.
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Why Your Eating Disorder Craves Validation (Is it "Attention Seeking"?) (00:59:06)
In this episode, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton dives deep into the complex psychology of eating disorders, the lasting "blueprint" of childhood trauma, and why certain coping mechanisms feel impossible to give up. We explore the often-misunderstood need for validation in recovery, the erratic behavior of some therapists, and why mental health struggles can feel like an addictive cycle. Whether you are navigating your own healing journey or trying to understand a loved one, this episode offers professional insight into breaking cycles of shame and finding a path toward a healthier sense of self.
Support the show! Check out our sponsor Remi:
Get professional quality custom night guards for 80% less than the dentist.
Go to https://www.shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 50% off
Timestamps
00:00:50 – Kati discusses whether "attention-seeking" in eating disorders is actually a cry for unmet emotional needs from childhood.
00:07:02 q1 – An exploration of why childhood sexual abuse deeply impacts one's psychological foundation and sense of safety.
00:15:54 q2 – Kati explains the addictive nature of self-harm and how to discuss the fear of stopping with a therapist.
00:22:45 q3 – Insight into why a therapist might show inconsistent personalities and how to handle unprofessional boundaries.
00:31:16 q4 – Advice for a student in India facing academic pressure and unsafe living conditions while dependent on family.
00:34:53 q5 – A look at "behavioral activation" and what to do when standard depression treatments and medications haven't worked.
00:39:09 q6 – How OCD can "rob" you of your interests by demanding a level of control that makes joy impossible.
00:44:40 q7 – Why it is common to feel terrified of fully committing to recovery after years of struggling with anorexia.
00:49:09 q8 – A professional breakdown of how therapists ethically intervene when a patient self-harms or dissociates during a session.
MY BOOKS
Why Do I Keep Doing This? (JUST RELEASED) https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 295 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can You Heal in the Place That Made You Sick? (01:10:52)
In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton explores a wide range of mental health topics, from the nuances of cognitive distortions to the complexities of healing from long-term trauma. Kati discusses why getting better can feel scary, the realities of psychiatric hospitalizations, and why certain popular therapy modalities like CBT might not be the best fit for everyone.
Support the show! Check out our sponsors and exclusive deals:
• Remi: Get professional quality custom night guards for 80% less than the dentist. Go to https://www.shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 50% off.
• Aura Frames: Give the gift of memories with unlimited photos and videos. Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://www.on.auraframes.com/KATI. Promo Code KATI
• Fabletics: Premium activewear for a fraction of the price. Sign up as a new VIP at https://www.fabletics.com/kati to get 80% off everything.
Questions:
Q 1: Futurizing vs. Catastrophizing Kati defines futurizing as an unrealistically negative view focused solely on the future , while catastrophizing is taking any small issue and making it a big deal in the moment.
Q 2: Why Breakthroughs Can Feel Empty or Scary A discussion on why making progress in therapy for complex trauma can lead to an "identity crisis"
Q 3: Navigating Higher Levels of Care & Hospitalization Kati explains the difference between voluntary vs. involuntary (5150) holds , what to actually expect inside a psychiatric ward (from "gripper socks" to shared rooms).
Q 4: Healing from Therapist Attachment & Goodbyes How to handle the "heartbreak" of a therapeutic relationship ending.
Q 5: Dealing with Intense Pre-Therapy Anxiety, Kati explores why some people feel terrified before sessions and offers tips like ritualizing your preparation to calm the nervous system.
Q 6: Can You Heal in the Place That Made You Sick? A "tough love" look at why true healing is difficult in an active abusive environment.
Q 7: Emotional Numbness and "Logic Brain" on Meds Addressing emotional numbness on psychiatric medication.
Q 8: Do You Really Need a Specialist for Eating Disorders?
Q 9: Why CBT Often Falls Short for Complex PTSD An explanation of why traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can feel minimizing or invalidating for trauma survivors.
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
MY BOOKS
Why Do I Keep Doing This? (NEW BOOK) https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I Thought My Life Was Doomed (00:51:47)
In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton sits down with Tone It Up co-founder and New York Times bestselling author Karena Dawn for a deeply personal conversation about trauma, resilience, and reclaiming one's narrative. Karena opens up to Kati about her "decade of darkness," sharing what it was like growing up with a mother living with paranoid schizophrenia and the emotional toll of a childhood marked by missing persons reports and family chaos. She reveals the pivotal moment in her 20s when she realized she wasn't "destined" to repeat her mother's path and how fitness became the catalyst for her healing.
*** Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
• MasterClass | Get up to 50% off at https://www.masterclass.com/KATI
• Fabletics | Sign up as a VIP and get eighty percent off at https://www.fabletics.com/kati
• Aura | Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/KATI. Promo Code KATI
• Remi | Go to shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 55% off a new night guard plus a FREE foam gift that whitens your teeth and cleans your nightguard
We also dive into: Reclaiming Tone It Up: Karena discusses the "full circle" journey of buying back her company 100% to lead it with freedom and joy once again. The Big Silence Podcast: Why she started her foundation to break the stigma surrounding mental health in honor of her late mother. Building Mastery: How finishing a triathlon proved to her that she could follow through on her dreams and build a life she loved. Women’s Health: A candid look at perimenopause, brain fog, and the lifestyle shifts like using creatine that help navigate new stages of life.
Connect with Karena Dawn:
https://www.youtube.com/@toneitup
https://www.youtube.com/@the.big.silence
My new book is in stores now! Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 293 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why You Push People Away When You Need Them Most (00:59:38)
In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, we dive deep into the complex and often unspoken corners of mental health recovery. We explore the psychology behind why some individuals experience persistent suicidal thoughts without the intent to act and discuss strategies for navigating friendships that inadvertently trigger eating disorder relapses or competition. I also open up about the ethics of plastic surgery when dealing with body dysmorphia , the "push-pull" dynamic in therapy often associated with BPD and attachment wounds , and share my professional perspective on gender-affirming care and the importance of therapeutic support. Finally, we analyze a shocking listener story about a therapist allowing a date in their office, breaking down the major red flags of blurred boundaries.
My new book is in stores now!
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
Get Yours For The Holiday - If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
00:00 – Intro
00:19 – Why do I have suicidal thoughts but can't act on them?
06:00 – When a friend's passion triggers your Eating Disorder relapse
12:21 – Navigating Anorexia recovery when treatment is denied (NHS & Weight Stigma)
20:06 – CrowdHealth message
21:53 – Plastic Surgery: Confidence booster or Body Dysmorphia?
27:35 – Envisioning suicidal scenarios & struggles with Lithium medication
33:02 – Why do I push my therapist away? (Fear of Abandonment & BPD)
36:36 – OneSkin message
38:13 – AuraFrames message
43:44 – My honest opinion on Gender Affirming Care & the "Affirm First" approach
52:37 – Red Flags: My therapist let me have a date in her office?!
Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
• CrowdHealth: get started today for $99 for your first three months using code ASKKATI at https://www.joincrowdhealth.com/
• OneSkin: For a limited time, try OneSkin for 15% off using code KATI at https://www.oneskin.co/Kati
• Aura Frames: Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://www.auraframes.com/KATI Promo Code KATI
Ask Kati Anything ep. 292 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
#podcast #psychology #katimorton
MY BOOKS
Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Selfish Choice: Childfree Living, Anxiety, and the Fear of Regret (01:13:07)
Barbara Dunkelman is here to chat about her incredible journey from being a fan to being the voice of Rooster Teeth’s Yang Xiao Long on RWBY. She opens up about the company's unexpected closure, dealing with planning a wedding, and finding relief in a major life change. This deep-dive covers the pressure of chasing trends and the truth about self-worth outside of analytics. We also explore profound personal philosophies, including the 10% vs. 90% rule of reaction , the power of the "Main Character Complex", and the anxiety around personal choices. Barbara and Kati get candid about their shared decision to be childfree, battling societal pressure, and the freedom that comes with fully committing to a life without regret. Plus, learn about her new product line and her D&D podcast, Tales from the Stinky Dragon.
My new book is available for pre-order!
Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
Book Tour: https://katimorton.com/wdikdt-book-tour
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
Aura Frames - use the promo code: KATI at https://auraframes.com/ for $35 off Carver Matte frames
Fabletics - 80% off everything for new VIP sign-ups at https://www.fabletics.com/Kati
One Skin - use the promo code: KATI for 15% off at https://www.oneskin.co/Kati
⏱️ Timestamps
00:01:32 Moving to Austin: Joining Rooster Teeth and the stressful work visa process.
00:04:14 The early days of RT: Starting as Community Manager when the company was tiny.
00:18:54 Barbara's Anxiety: Starting Always Open and her interest in mental health.
00:23:22 The 10/90 Rule: You have control over how you react to things.
00:25:04 The Main Character Complex: Why everyone is thinking about themselves, not you.
00:28:23 Therapy Search: The challenge of finding the right fit for counseling.
00:44:49 The Scariest Standard: How being exposed to "the best of the best" online affects self-image.
00:46:35 Phone Addiction: Strategies Barbara uses to put her phone in "timeout".
00:47:44 Choosing Childfree: Why Barbara decided against having kids and the pressure to procreate.
00:50:02 Ending the Regret Cycle: Making the decision and committing to it fully.
00:53:01 The "Selfish" Argument: Why choosing your own happiness isn't truly selfish.
01:04:11 The Next Chapter: Retaining the IP for Tales from the Stinky Dragon.
01:06:02 New Venture: Developing her own hair styling cream.
01:08:29 Intentional Travel: Living out their Childfree plans with a trip to Japan
More Barbara!
Tales from the Stinky Dragon https://www.youtube.com/@stinkydragonpod
Barbara's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bdunkelman
All Good. No Worries https://www.instagram.com/allgood.noworries
Don't forget to Like and Subscribe for more Ask Kati Anything episodes every week
Ask Kati Anything ep. 291 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY
While I do not currently offer online therapy, our sponsor BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist. Receive 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why Do I Feel So Behind? When Everyone Else Seems to Have It Together (00:57:02)
In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Kati Morton tackles the core question: Why Do I Feel So Behind? when it seems Everyone Else Seems to Have It Together. We dive deep into the psychological struggles of comparison, isolation, and overcoming trauma.We also address the debilitating internal experience: Are You Experiencing Complex PTSD? and provide clarity on What to Do When Your Brain Relates Everything to Trauma. Finally, we cover motivation loss, asking: Do You Have Anhedonia? and share strategies for Finding Motivation When Everything Feels Boring.
Don't forget to Like and Subscribe for more Ask Kati Anything episodes every week!
Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
• MasterClass always has great offers during the holidays, sometimes up to as much as 50% off. Head over to http://MASTERCLASS.com/KATI for the current offer.
• Go to Remi (Custom Night Guards & Dental Solutions) http://shopremi.com/KATI and use code KATI at checkout for 55% off a new night guard plus a FREE foam gift that whitens your teeth and cleans your night guard.
• Visit https://on.auraframes.com/KATI for an exclusive $45-off Carver Mat - Use promo code KATI at checkout
Audience questions & timestamps:
0:00:39 (Q1) Dealing with Friendship Envy. Kati reframes friendship envy as an indicator of what you truly want in life.
0:06:59 (Q2) Recovering from Burnout. The Effort vs. Reward Strategy The key to recovery is assessing where your time and energy go, and then placing boundaries in areas where...
My new book is available for pre-order: Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQIf you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
0:14:12 (Q3) Moving On After Divorce. Rediscovery of Self Divorce is a huge loss, and therapy is a must. The core focus should be on figuring out who you are again through journaling (like The Artist's Way) and taking solo dates.
0:23:48 (Q4) Ego Death & Transformation. Ego vs. Connection Ego is a protective defense mechanism that, when overactive, can cause resistance, sabotage progress, and impede true connection.
0:30:10 (Q5) Why Everything is a Trigger (Complex PTSD) The listener is triggered by everyday items (like Vaseline) and experiences dissociation due to past sexual abuse by their mother. Kati emphasizes the brain is trying to protect the listener.
0:40:29 (Q6) In Crisis But Don’t Want to 'Bug' Therapist. It's common for crisis feelings and body memories to intensify at night due to fewer distractions. Advice includes using crisis lines (988, 741741)
0:45:34 (Q7) Loss of Motivation (Approaching 70) Anhedonia and Behavioral Activation Lacking enthusiasm (anhedonia) and motivation is a common sign of depression in older adults, often linked to loss of purpose and isolation.
0:50:29 (Q8) Finding the Right Dose The feeling of being "numbed out" or lacking motivation on an SSRI is often due to blunted affect from a dose that is too high, or the wrong medication entirely.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 290 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This Single Prayer Changed My Life: Letting Go of Biases and Preconceived Ideas (00:55:07)
In this deeply honest episode of Ask Kati Anything, guest Jared Craft shares valuable insights into overcoming his ego, financial fears, and the lifelong work of surrendering control. Jared opens up about his journey through addiction and recovery - He details how growing up closeted in a conservative town fostered a deep-seated need for external validation and people-pleasing. He discusses his corporate career at Google and YouTube and the subsequent struggles with exercise addiction and substance abuse, which ultimately led to a dramatic family intervention. This is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the true gift of recovery and how to finally let go of control for personal and professional growth.
Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
• Fabletics • https://www.fabletics.com/Kati 80% OFF everything for new VIP members
• OneSkin • http://oneskin.co/ use the code KATI for 15% OFF
• Crowd Health • http://joincrowdhealth.com/ use the code ASKKATI to get your first three months for just $99
• Remi • https://shopremi.com/kati use the code KATI for 55% OFF plus a FREE gift!
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction: Jared Craft
01:42 - Living for external validation in his 20s
02:20 - Growing up closeted in a conservative Minnesota town
03:36 - The early desire for external success and people-pleasing
04:44 - The unexpected process of coming out
07:06 - Moving to LA and the start of deeper addiction struggles
10:29 - The Lance Bass photos
11:09 - The conversation with his sister and parents about his sexuality
18:37 - The Intervention that forced him into his first rehab stint at 24
20:09 - The misconception about what recovery was
23:40 - Sobriety, relapse, and the key difference the second time around
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
26:46 - What is an Inventory? (Self-check for resentment, fear, and harm)
29:29 - The deep-rooted fear of financial trauma and scarcity
32:39 - The Set Aside Prayer for walking into conflict or anxiety
33:58 - Getting over prejudices about the word 'God' and finding a Higher Power
40:32 - The 'Whack-a-Mole' nature of control and addiction
41:49 - Advice for someone who is Day One Sober
42:53 - The Gifts of Recovery
44:48 - How fear of losing clients resulted in poor boundaries
48:03 - Intimate relationships as the current area for growth
51:37 - Jared's next steps: Overcoming the fear of change
Ask Kati Anything ep. 289 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
Jared is on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@jcraft
MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Truth About the LGBTQ+ Community's Toxic Shift (00:55:46)
The Dark Side of Inclusivity: OG YouTuber Arielle Scarcella joins us to discuss the toxic political shift and intolerance of difference of thought in the LGBTQ+ community. Arielle opens up about being canceled 5 times and why she's labeled transphobic for applying common sense. We cover everything from voting for Trump and Gen Z's emotional regulation to how she deals with hate and intolerance.
My new book, Why Do I Keep Doing This? comes out on December 9th & you can PRE-ORDER here: https://geni.us/XoyLSQ If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
** Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
• 15% OFF at OneSkin http://ONESKIN.CO/KATI use code: KATI
• 30% OFF at Blissy http://blissy.com/askkatipod
Timestamps:
1:31 - Arielle's YouTube Start in 2009: After an abusive relationship
3:37 - Why she started: There was no LGB education online
5:25 - Opinion on trans women in sports
6:44 - First video title: "Lesbian Cougar"
9:24 - Being Canceled 5 Times
12:48 - The Left Left Me: Staying a classic liberal
14:42 - Drag shows for children are creepy and hurt the gay community
15:39 - Dating pool is horrible: Everyone is non-binary
17:34 - Wearing a Rainbow MAGA hat at Pride
18:17 - The most hateful people interviewed were white (White Guilt)
18:59 - People of color listened because they "know what it's like not being heard"
19:46 - Gen Z lacks socialization and social development skills
20:51 - We need debate classes to learn how to disagree and still get along
21:39 - The left loves diversity, except diversity of thought
23:23 - The shift was people publicly ostracizing her for disagreement
30:11 - Confronting haters: They "don't say sh!t" because they lack the social skills
31:18 - Voting for Trump as a lesbian
36:01 - Content is now a moderate/classic liberal view
36:45 - Queer activists converting to Islam
38:59 - Gen Z has lost the plot and doesn't know how to deal with emotions
40:46 - Nostalgia reminds you of "who you are before the world f*cked you up"
42:09 - Street interviews: Confronting haters who "talk sh!t"
43:22 - Today's definition of transphobia: Disagreeing with anything they say
43:57 - You don't need gender dysphoria to be trans in NYC now45:54 - Managing the hate: Knowing who you are makes you manipulation-proof
48:11 - The "Duper’s Delight" Smirk (Smug, powerful, specific to woke activists)
52:02 - They tried to prevent her from entering Australia in 2020
Ask Kati Anything ep. 287 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL http://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0jAre u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dissociation vs. Dissociative DISORDER (01:09:09)
Today, Kati navigates the confusing paths of trauma healing, dissociation, and eating disorder recovery. Learn what happens when your coping skills become a dissociative disorder, how to handle medical trauma, the truth about countertransference in therapy, and essential steps for overcoming OCD and self-sabotage. This episode covers recovery setbacks, exercise addiction, feeling lost, and what to do when therapy feels confusing or unsafe.
Shopping with our sponsors helps support Ask Kati Anything and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers:
• Blissy - Get better sleep, hair and skin with Blissy - use code ASKKATIPOD to get an additional 30% off at http://blissy.com/ASKKATIPOD
• CrowdHealth - Get your first three months for just $99 CrowdHealth - Healthcare Crowdfunding at http://joincrowdhealth.com/ use code ASKKATI
📚 My new book is available for pre-order!
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Timestamps
00:41 | Dissociation: Symptom vs. Disorder? When does dissociation as a coping mechanism turn into a diagnosable dissociative disorder (like DPD/DPDR or DID), and how can one bring this up in therapy without sounding "attention seeking"?
07:58 | Medical Trauma and Abuse: Can suppositories or enemas, administered for painful constipation, be considered traumatizing or abusive, especially when compounded by a history of abuse from a babysitter?
14:29 | Dissociation While Healing: Struggling with worsening dissociation (mostly DPDR) and existential thoughts after starting to unpack complex PTSD and an eating disorder in therapy. What helps someone feel "real" and grounded again?
19:55 | Countertransference in Therapy: Discussing transference and countertransference, specifically concerning a therapist who shared the patient is "very like her daughter" and seems to be struggling to refer the patient out to an eating disorder specialist.
30:00 | New OCD Diagnosis & Treatment: Newly diagnosed with OCD after previously being told they didn't have it, and unsure how to fit OCD treatment into their current therapy plan which is focused on suicidal ideation (CBT-S). Also, how to differentiate OCD tendencies from "normal" tendencies.
38:44 | Anorexia Recovery in an Unhealthy Environment: How to navigate recovery from anorexia nervosa when living in an unhealthy environment that seems to cause recovery setbacks and a "total mind switch."
45:20 | The Cycle of Self-Sabotage: Why self-sabotage is a continuous cycle, why it's so hard to break, and what steps can be taken to change the pattern.
54:14 | Exercise Addiction & Mood Swings: Struggling with massive mood changes and fatigue, feeling depressed when missing a workout, and considering resting a "waste of time." Seeking insight on a therapist's suggestion of "dopamine addiction."
01:02:29 | Feeling Life is Pointless: How to stop feeling like one's entire life is pointless, and what strategies can combat these feelings of meaninglessness.
📚 PUBLISHED BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
🧠 NEED THERAPY? While I don't offer online therapy, get connected with a licensed therapist through my sponsor BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/kati (Get 10% OFF your first month)
💼 BUSINESS INQUIRIES:
Contact Nick Freeman nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is talking about your emotions actually hurting your healing? Licensed therapist Kati Morton dives deep into the non-linear reality of healing, tackling feelings of meaninglessness, navigating forced therapy, and how to recover from therapist abandonment. Discover the key difference between therapeutic processing and harmful rumination, learn what narcissistic abuse looks like, and find out how to get unstuck from survival mode and self-sabotage.
Audience Questions:
0:43 - Q1: When Does Talking About Emotions Become Negative? ("...at what point does talking about your motion emotions have a negative effect?" / "...I would rather skip the talking and go straight to the homework...")
8:59 - Q2: Dealing with the Feeling of Meaninglessness ("How do I deal with the feeling of meaninglessness? I'm a successful girl by society standards... But I don't feel any excitement about anything...")
** Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offer:
Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code KATI at https://branchbasics.com/KATI
13:49 - Q3: How to Recover from Feeling Abandoned by Your Therapist ("How do I get over feeling worthless even when not even my therapist seems to care.")
19:39 - Q4: The Effects of Toxic Narcissistic Abuse on Healing ("It feels like I'm stuck in a loop. Like I keep sabotaging myself." / "My life revolved around her. She'd get mad if I didn't go out with her...")
26:22 - Q5: Stuck in Survival Mode After Leaving an Abusive Home ("...moving away from home to college because of my abusive parents... I thought moving away would get me out of survival mode, it didn't.")
31:09 - Q6: How to Fix Life Once You Figure Out "The Why" ("...after one figures out why life has turned out the way it did, how does one quote unquote fix that?")
37:57 - Q7: Working on Being Less Hard on Yourself ("I'm very hard on myself and have two higher expectations... Do you have any other methods that can help me work on being less hard on myself?")
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 286 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are Your Hormones Making Focus Harder (Menopause & ADHD Meds) (00:59:06)
Today's questions are very interesting! Everything from breaking the habit of nail biting and skin picking, to navigating comparison, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome. We’ll also talk about menopause, how it can affect mood, depression, and even how ADHD medications work plus what happens when your diagnosis suddenly changes and you’re left wondering who to believe. And finally, we’ll explore what it’s like to be diagnosed with ADHD later in life, after years of being told it was something else entirely. So whether you’re here to better understand your own mental health, or you just love learning more about how our brains and emotions work, this episode is full of real questions, honest conversations, and practical takeaways you can actually use.
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Audience questions:
(01:03) How do I stop biting my nails? (Compulsion to pick at skin/nails)
(09:54) I keep comparing myself to other people, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome.
(20:01) Thoughts about menopause and how it affects depression.
(25:21) Is it true that menopause hinders ADHD meds from working?
(30:26) What are some things I can do to improve my communication skills with my partner?
(41:00) Identity shift with a change in diagnosis (ADHD/ASD vs. OCPD) and who to believe.
(51:43) Women being diagnosed with ADHD later in life (55+) and misdiagnosis with bipolar disorder.
Sponsors:
I want to take a moment to give a kind word of thanks to the companies that support this podcast. Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health.
Please check out this week's partners and their special offers:
• Headspace: Get 60 days FREE www.Headspace.com/AskKati
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• One Skin: 15% off www.OneSkin.co | use code KATI
Ask Kati Anything ep. 285 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
My original YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
#podcast #therapist #katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
MDMA, Oxytocin, & Empathy: The Neuroscientist on How Connection Rewires Your Brain | Dr. Ben Rein (00:56:05)
Today, Kati sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein, to dive into the social connection and the growing loneliness epidemic. Dr. Rein, author of Why Brains Need Friends, explains how your brain is fundamentally wired for interaction, why isolation is a biological stressor, and what you can do to improve your social health. In this must-watch episode, Dr. Rein explains the mechanical changes happening in your brain during isolation and clarifies why the U.S. Surgeon General has declared a loneliness epidemic. You'll learn the surprising truth about isolation and physical health—it can cause stress hormones like cortisol to rise within days and is associated with more adverse health outcomes. Dr. Rein also reveals the science behind why isolation can make people more irritable and even angry, linking it to the body's natural stress response. Kati and Dr. Rein discuss the difference between in-person and digital interactions, noting that less "lifelike" communication strips away vital social cues like eye contact, body language, and even smell, leading to fewer mood benefits. Dr. Rein introduces the concept of a "Social Diet" and social journaling—practical tools to help you identify which interactions energize you ("breath in" relationships) versus those that leave you depleted. The conversation takes fascinating turns into the role of brain chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin in social reward and the development of empathy. Plus, discover the incredible, innate ability of dogs to detect physiological stress signals and the science of how pets help children develop crucial social skills.
By shopping with our sponsors, you help support our podcast:
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Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Ben Rein, neuroscientist and author of Why Brains Need Friends.
02:54 - The neuroscience behind loneliness-induced anger and why isolation is treated as a stressor by the body.
05:57 - Debunking the myth: Do introverts benefit from social interaction, and in what dose?
10:48 - The evolutionary reason we are wired for social reward, and the key brain chemicals involved: dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin.
15:40 - A discussion on MDMA, serotonin depletion, and the severity of the drug's comedown.
21:11 - The shocking statistics on increasing time spent alone in modern society (36 hours more per month).
28:22 - What is "inter brain synchrony," and can it happen over a text message?.
35:47 - The power of social smells: how tears can reduce aggression and how a mother's scent affects a baby's brain synchrony.
41:51 - Why growing up with dogs helps children develop empathy and fewer conduct problems.
48:53 - The powerful therapeutic properties of oxytocin (anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective) beyond just social connection.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 284 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
Today's guest is Dr. Ben Rein
https://www.youtube.com/@dr.benrein
Order Ben's new book Why Brains Need Friends → https://geni.us/WhyBrainsNeedFriends
My new book Why Do I Keep Doing This? is available for pre-order!
https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can You Be a Good Friend While Struggling? Boundaries, self-care & healing trauma (00:53:12)
Are you struggling to support a friend's mental health crisis while battling your own? This essential episode of Ask Kati Anything dives deep into setting healthy boundaries in tough friendships, tackling the crucial question of how to protect your peace without guilt. We also explore the often-misunderstood journey of relapse and recovery, the profound search for meaning when life feels empty due to depression, and offer vital insights into eating disorders at different life stages, from early struggles to fears about pregnancy and being a role model. Plus, discover whether day-to-day anxiety truly serves a purpose, how to navigate a forgetful therapist, and the emotional impact of chronic illness and bullying.
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Episode Timestamps:
00:44 - q1 What to do when supporting a struggling friend begins to trigger your own pain.
08:31 - q2 Could you talk about best practices for staying out of the hospital and about the stigma around relapse and recovery?
17:00 - q3 How can any meaning in life be found when it takes action to find meaning?
21:59 - q4 I'm almost 28 years old and have been struggling with anorexia for six years and eating disorder behaviors for more than half my life.
29:26 - q5 I was wondering if I have an eating disorder.
33:51 - q6 Does day-to-day anxiety actually serve a purpose like other emotions?
38:16 - q7 Can you please talk about therapy and how to handle a forgetful therapist?
42:47 - q8 Could you cover the correlation of chronic illnesses or chronic pain like a leg disability... and mental health issues?
Ask Kati Anything ep. 283 | your weekly mental health podcast hosted by licensed marriage and family therapist Kati Morton, where she answers your most pressing mental health questions with compassion, expertise, and actionable advice.
Support Our Show by Checking Out Our Sponsors
We're able to bring you these important conversations thanks to the support of our incredible sponsors. Please take a moment to visit them and learn more about what they offer!
BetterHelp - Our listeners get 10% off their first month at https://www.betterhelp.com/katipod
October 10th is World Mental Health Day, and BetterHelp is celebrating the therapists who make healing possible. If you're ready to find the right therapist for you, BetterHelp can help you start that journey.
Blissy - as a listener, receive your 60 nights risk-free plus an additional 30% off when you shop at https://blissy.com/askkatipod and use code askkatipod
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Am I stuck in survival mode?" (00:50:48)
Today, I'm answering your top questions on trauma recovery, emotional processing, and breaking free from mental blocks.
I'm diving deep into how to move out of functional freeze and start feeling again, what structure is actually needed in therapy sessions, and the hard but essential first steps of eating disorder recovery. We also discuss the severe emotional impact of failed suicide attempts, techniques for determining if a memory is real or false, and why your nervous system makes you push away safe people and loved ones. If you've felt stuck in survival mode or questioned your own recollections, this video offers practical grounding techniques and trauma-informed healing advice.
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)While I do not currently offer online therapy, this episode's sponsor BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/katipod
Today's questions:
00:42 - How to get out of a functional free state and start to feel and process emotions again.
04:46 - I have a question about structure and goals in therapy... Is a specific plan and structure needed?
12:42 - I hope you're not tired of hearing me dance around my eating disorder behaviors, but I'm a little lost. Is this the way most eating disorder recovery starts?
20:13 - I'm still stuck in survival mode, which I thought would go away by moving out earlier.
24:06 - I have a question about trauma and false memories... How do I know when or if something is a false memory?
29:13 - Can you talk about the effects of failed suicide attempts? Is it possible to have trauma from an attempt even if you weren't hospitalized?
31:33 - Can you talk a bit about what a therapist takes notes about during a session?
37:53 - What are best ways to cope with triggers and panic attacks in school?
42:36 - I puffer fish the people closest to me, and I don't know why I keep doing it.
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Ask Kati Anything | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton LMFT
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are You 'High-Functioning' but Secretly Depressed? (Psychiatrist Explains) (01:02:07)
High-functioning depression is a silent struggle for many. Are you walking through life, feeling overwhelmed, but still managing to keep it all together?
Dr. Joseph shares insights from her groundbreaking, peer-reviewed study, the first of its kind on high-functioning depression. She explains why many people with depression symptoms continue to function, showing up to work and managing their responsibilities, often while wearing a mask to hide their pain. They may not experience joy or pleasure, a symptom known as anhedonia, which can be a key indicator of this condition.
Episode sponsors:
• BABBEL Get up to 55% OFF: https://www.babbel.com/kati
• MINT MOBILE Premium wireless service for just $15 a month. https://www.mintmobile.com/kati
• HEADSPACE Receive a free 60-day trial: https://www.headspace.com/askkati
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Our conversation challenges the traditional medical approach to mental health, which often requires a person to reach a point of crisis before they can receive a diagnosis or treatment. We explore why this "wait until you're at stage four" mentality is so flawed and how we can instead adopt a preventative mindset, similar to what we see in cardiology.
We also dive into the fascinating link between past trauma and the need to be constantly busy. Dr. Joseph’s research shows that high-functioning individuals often avoid dealing with their pain by taking on more work and distracting themselves.
In this episode:
00:46 - What is High-Functioning Depression?
02:47 - The connection between trauma, being busy, and high-functioning depression
04:21 - The medical field's narrow definition of trauma
07:12 - The idea of "white knuckling" life
08:32 - The difference between happiness and joy
11:23 - The importance of small moments of joy
14:16 - Using the Bio-Psychosocial Model to find joy
25:50 - The significance of body and emotional awareness
27:50 - The impact of social media and technology
31:53 - The importance of in-person connection
37:48 - The future of AI in therapy
40:39 - The connection between people-pleasing, perfectionism, and trauma
45:54 - Why people return to abusive relationships
48:38 - A 5-step model for finding joy
53:40 - The joy of writing and creative work
Order Dr. Judith Joseph's book, High-Functioning: https://amzn.to/3Iotjvx
Kati's Main Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton#podcast #psychology #drjudithjoseph
KATI'S BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://www.betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ryland Adams: My Biggest YouTube Regrets (and What I'd Do Differently) (00:59:19)
Thank you to today's sponsor Vegamour! Go to vegamour.com/kati code KATI for 20% off your first order!
Join Kati Morton as she sits down with Ryland Adams from the Sip podcast to discuss his unconventional journey, navigating the world of YouTube, and the realities of online fame.
Ryland opens up about his early days, from finding a roommate on Craigslist to pursuing an acting career in Hollywood, and how he eventually found his place on YouTube. He shares insights into the hustle, the burnout, and the importance of staying real while building a career online. Ryland also discusses his relationship with Shane Dawson, including how they met, collaborated, and navigated the challenges of online life together.
The conversation dives into the challenges of dealing with criticism, maintaining mental health in the digital age, and finding balance as a content creator. Ryland also shares his experiences with marriage and parenthood.
This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in YouTube, online culture, and personal stories of growth and resilience.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 258 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
https://www.youtube.com/@UCVe_RrR9AMeY6Z8ixOv5gtw
https://www.youtube.com/@thesipwithrylandadamsandli5476
https://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
#podcast #rylandadams #katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
CHANNEL MEMBERSHIP
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzBYOHyEEzlkRdDOSobbpvw/join
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Injuries, Identity, and the Invisible Load: Loving an NHL Hockey Player (00:54:56)
Kati Morton, LMFT sits down with Jordan Leigh—mental health advocate, entrepreneur, and fiancée of Montreal Canadiens NHL star Patrik Laine—for a candid look behind the scenes of professional sports and personal struggle.
Jordan shares the unseen emotional weight of loving someone in the public eye: the fear of injury, the pressure to stay strong, and the mental health impact of being the steady one when your partner can't be. They also talk about her non-profit From Us to You, the mental toll of unpredictability, and how real support goes beyond just “being there.”
EPISODE SPONSOR
Thank you to today's sponsor Vegamour! Go to https://www.vegamour.com/kati code KATI for 20% off your first order!
Whether you're an athlete’s partner, a high achiever carrying too much, or just someone looking for a truly honest conversation about love and mental health—this one’s for you. Ask Kati Anything ep. 260 with Jordan Leigh | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
PRE-ORDER MY NEW BOOK! Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
🧠 Learn more about From Us to You:
https://fromustoyou.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@UC1LJUpc-SRnWFHqQbioMRyQ https://www.instagram.com/lifebyjordanleigh/
Kati's Main Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@UCzBYOHyEEzlkRdDOSobbpvw
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Couples Therapy with Shane Dawson & Ryland Adams (00:58:40)
Shane Dawson and Ryland Adams join licensed therapist Kati Morton for an unfiltered and heartfelt deep dive into their relationship. From their awkward first date and sleep divorce setup to parenting twins and surviving cancel culture, nothing is off-limits in this revealing episode of Ask Kati Anything.
EPISODE SPONSOR
BABBEL - Get up to 55% off at https://www.Babbel.com/KATI
We talk about love languages, fights, co-parenting, therapy breakthroughs, and how their relationship evolved from their first date to building a family. Shane opens up about his mental health, creative rebirth, and fatherhood, while Ryland shares how communication, trust, and humor keep their bond strong.
Whether you're in a relationship, navigating parenthood, or just here for the stories—this episode delivers plenty of “OMG did he really just say that?” moments.
*** PRE-ORDER MY NEW BOOK ***
Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
📺 Watch more episodes: Ryland Adams: My Biggest YouTube Regrets https://youtu.be/JZrNvO64yYw
Shane Dawson: YouTube, Cancellation & Fatherhood
https://youtu.be/f_dbaCD9ouA
Follow Shane & Ryland:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hQ8DpeKzZE
https://www.youtube.com/@shanehttps://www.youtube.com/@Shane2/videos
Kati's Main Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
#podcast #rylandadams #shanedawson
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How do I find hope again? (00:52:02)
In this powerful episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist and YouTube mental health advocate Kati Morton answers vulnerable audience questions about living without hope, healing from lifelong trauma, and navigating emotional burnout. We explore how to break free from chronic emotional numbness, cope with retraumatization in unsafe environments, and rebuild a sense of purpose when life feels stagnant or meaningless. Kati offers expert insight on topics like maladaptive coping strategies, therapy attachment wounds, and the overwhelming grief that comes from invisible disabilities and complex PTSD.
Episode Sponsor:
Liquid I.V. - Use the promo code KATI For 20% OFF! https://www.liquid-iv.com
Audience questions for Ask Kati Anything ep. 268
1. I'd like to hear what you have to say about living without hope. My therapist and I have been... 00:01:18
2. Hey Kati, I’m a 25F with ASD. I have been abused by over 50 people (after reaching 50 I stopped counting) in almost every way imaginable, even by people who were supposed to love and/or protect me, even by therapists and teachers, from when I was 4 years old until recently. I don’t even really know what the word “safe” means. I have helped or held space for many people dealing with pain and grief, but I never learned how to receive help for myself. I was shamed and physically punished by my parents for even the smallest acts of self-care, self-soothing or my ASD symptoms themselves... 00:09:27
3. How do I get past the fact that therapy itself requires an imbalance of intimacy and sharing and just overall is not an organic give and take relationship? 00:18:07
4. How to stop obsessing over the world we live in….and how scary it’s becoming for our children. 00:25:12
5. I feel like I have nothing exciting to look forward to. This has been ongoing for years. 00:29:38
6. How can you cope with re traumatisation when you can't get out of the situation? 00:33:49
7. Is it possible for untreated mental illness to be traumatizing? I think I had a period of depression for a few months when I was 12-13ish, but I never told anyone and would always say I was fine when asked. I was functional enough to shower, eat, do school... 00:33:49
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is High Functioning Depression Hiding In Plain Sight? (00:48:29)
Are you struggling with depression, self-sabotage, or anxiety that no one else can see? In this deeply honest episode of Ask Katie Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton explains what high functioning depression really feels like and why you might feel so empty inside, even when life looks “perfect” on the outside. We’ll explore how childhood trauma, emotional neglect, and attachment wounds shape your mental health today — and how they’re connected to self-sabotage, memory gaps, and anxiety symptoms like itching or shaking. Kati shares practical steps to break free from guilt, reconnect with yourself, and start healing.
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 270 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
EPISODE SPONSORS:
VEGAMOUR - Thank you to today's sponsor Vegamour! Go to https://www.vegamour.com/kati code KATI for 20% off your first order!
LIQUID IV - Thank you to https://www.liquid-iv.com for sponsoring mental health content!
USE THE PROMO CODE KATI For 20% OFF!
Questions & timestamps
1. Could you talk about high-functioning depression and what it really looks like? For context, I feel like I have a “perfect” life; supportive parents, a stable home, pets, a car, and all the basic things I need to live comfortably. I haven’t experienced any trauma, and from the outside, everything seems fine... 00:00:43
2. I accept my flaws and want to grow, but I zone out or give up easily. I’ve been stagnant in my studies for 3 years. How do I build real, lasting change when it feels so hard to even begin? 00:12:07
3. I’ve recently realized there are a lot of things I do not remember about my childhood. My sibling was sharing stories and kept looking at me asking, “Do you remember that?” and I rarely did. We lived in the same house so how does she remember so much more than me? 00:17:49
4. Could you please explain why people itch when they are anxious? It's something I have recently started doing without even knowing it was related to my mental health. Could you please tell me why we do this? And how we might be able to stop? Thank you love your videos and podcasts! 00:22:29
5. My question is about attachment regarding military life, having a parent unavailable but not by choice. I often hear you mention your dad being gone for work frequently when you were a child and how you believe it has an effect on your upbringing. My dad was in the military for 25 years and was often gone during my childhood—not for super long periods (maybe 4 months max), but he left and returned so often... 00:29:11
6. I’ve been on a healing journey in the last 2 years in trauma therapy. I’ve worked a lot on myself with the big challenge of feeling my own feelings. I’ve learned to sit with my feelings and finally felt safe with my therapist. I’ve set boundaries with family, lost relationships, and even lost a pet during therapy... 00:38:59
7. My old therapist is having a baby and I will no longer be able to see her. She has been so helpful and I have been able to move on from her in the past (when I “graduated” DBT). All of the therapists I have had since seeing her don’t quit live up. It’s possible that she’s my favorite person. How do I move forward with my life? 00:42:31
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Mental Cost of Fighting Misinformation: Professor Dave Opens Up (00:55:13)
The Mental Cost of Fighting Misinformation: Professor Dave opens up in this honest conversation, Dave Farina from the YouTube channel Professor Dave Explains shares the personal toll of dedicating his life to fighting misinformation and educating millions online. As one of YouTube's most prominent science educators, Dave reveals the mental health challenges that come with constant content creation and defending scientific truth in today's polarized world. Dave discusses how his work ethic has evolved from healthy productivity to potential burnout, the emotional strategies he's developed to handle daily harassment, and why he feels compelled to continue despite the personal cost. This conversation offers valuable insights for content creators, educators, and anyone interested in the psychology of online advocacy.
EPISODE SPONSOR:
BABBEL - Get up to 55% off at https://www.Babbel.com/KATI
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My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
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Key Topics Discussed:
The transition from musician to full-time science educator and debunker
How constant work has rewired his brain and affected his ability to disconnect
Strategies for emotional detachment when facing online harassment and threats
The mental health impact of fighting misinformation as a career
Balancing family life with a demanding content creation schedule
Why he feels a sense of duty to continue despite burnout
The broader societal implications of the "post-truth era"
Practical advice for creators dealing with online negativity
This episode provides a rare look into the personal sacrifices and psychological resilience required to be an effective science communicator in the digital age.
Resources: If you're interested in creator psychology, science education, or the fight against misinformation, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the human cost of online advocacy. Check out Dave Farina's channel
https://www.youtube.com/@ProfessorDaveExplains
Ask Kati Anything ep. 271 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
MY BOOKS
Why Do I Keep Doing This? (pre-order) https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
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Why You Can't Trust Yourself (And How to Fix It) (00:42:04)
In today's episode I explain why you struggle to trust yourself and share the simple strategy to rebuild self-trust. I'll help you identify healthy vs unhealthy attachment to your therapist, recognize when you're protecting yourself in therapy, and understand the root causes of intimacy fears. I also cover different therapeutic styles, OCD vs OCD-like tendencies, and practical tips for developing secure attachment patterns.
In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, I address six of your questions about self-trust, therapy struggles, and mental health challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck in life, questioning your therapeutic relationship, or dealing with intrusive thoughts, I provide actionable insights for your healing journey.
SPONSOR:
Liquid IV - Go to https://www.LIQUIDIV.COM and get 20% off your first order with code KATI at checkout!
Key Topics I Discuss
• My promise-keeping method for building self-trust
• Signs of healthy vs unhealthy therapist attachment
• Why some therapists avoid deep work (and what to do about it)
• Understanding protection vs control in therapy
• Root causes of intimacy fears and how to overcome them
• OCD symptoms vs OCD-like tendencies explained
Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
0:30 Q1: How to learn to trust yourself
5:46 Q2: Healthy vs unhealthy therapist attachment
11:09 Q3: Therapist not focusing on root issues
17:02 Q4: Controlling everything in therapy
25:04 Q5: Fears of intimacy and healthy attachments
34:07 Q6: OCD vs OCD-like tendencies
40:01 Closing thoughts
Ask Kati Anything ep. 272 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFTMy new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
CHANNEL MEMBERSHIP
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzBYOHyEEzlkRdDOSobbpvw/join
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I Was Sleeping 2 Hours a Night - What YouTube Fame Really Costs (01:02:49)
Kandee Johnson was sleeping just 2 hours a night at the height of her YouTube fame - juggling content creation, brand deals, and raising 4 kids as a single mom. In this honest conversation, she shares what that lifestyle really cost her and that health issues eventually forced her to step away.From having 13 cents in her bank account to becoming YouTube's biggest beauty creator, Kandee opens up about the reality behind the success. She talks about the exhaustion, the constant travel, editing videos until 4 AM, and how her body eventually said "enough."
SPONSORS:
To support this podcast, check out our sponsors & get discounts:
Warby Parker - https://www.warbyparker.com/KATI
Mint Mobile — Get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for just $15/month → https://www.mintmobile.com/kati
My new book is available for pre-order:
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
What you'll hear in this episode
How she went from broke single mom to YouTube success
The reality of sleeping 2-4 hours a night for years
Why she was working 16-hour days constantly
Health issues that made her take a break
Her honest thoughts on social media and "doom scrolling"
Why she turned down millions in brand deals for integrity
What she learned during her time away from YouTube
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - From 13 cents to YouTube success
12:45 - The exhaustion of constant content creation
28:30 - Behind the scenes of a YouTube career
35:20 - Health issues and stepping away
42:15 - Life during her YouTube break
48:50 - Thoughts on social media addiction
55:30 - What she'd do differently
Ask Kati Anything ep. 273 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
#podcast #kandeejohnson #katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No One Ever Showed Up for Me — Now What? (00:44:08)
Struggling with trauma, trust issues, food and body image struggles, or feeling like no one ever showed up for you? In this episode, Kati responds to six powerful community questions about healing after emotional neglect, craving validation, navigating boundary violations, and figuring out how to keep going when life feels overwhelming.Whether you’re starting therapy, dealing with past experiences that left you feeling confused or stuck, or just trying to feel seen, this episode offers real insight and encouragement.
Thanks to this week’s sponsors for helping bring mental health content to life!
GREEN CHEF - healthy eating made easy (discount link) http://GREENCHEF.com/50askkati
BETTERHELP - online therapy (discount link): http://BETTERHELP.com/katipod
🔖 Timestamps & Topics
00:00 – Intro & Book Pre-order Reminder
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
01:11 – Q1: "No one’s going to save me — so why do I still crave attention?"Craving care when it was never modeled, coping through behaviors, and the truth about being “attention-seeking.”
07:05 – Q2: "My therapist ignored what happened. Why does school still trigger me?"When trusted places become reminders of past pain and how to bring it up again in therapy.
13:10 – Q3: "My mom read my journal. How can I trust her again?"Privacy breaches, parent dynamics, and learning to rebuild safety after feeling exposed.
22:01 – Q4: "Am I being dramatic for needing therapy now?"Letting go of self-comparison and learning how to validate your current emotional experience.
30:40 – Q5: "How do I build hope when I never expected to live this long?"Finding motivation, building resilience, and coping with thoughts of giving up.
36:04 – Q6: "Can I have trauma even if nothing 'serious' happened?"Understanding freeze responses, dissociation, and why certain experiences still leave emotional scars.
Ask Kati Anything podcast episode 274, hosted by licensed therapist Kati Morton.
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Grace Helbig on Burnout, Breast Cancer & Building a New Life (01:03:36)
In this revealing conversation, Grace Helbig opens up about her early days of YouTube stardom, to the burnout that followed, and facing breast cancer head-on. She shares behind-the-scenes stories of navigating the chaos of internet fame, the toll it took on her mental health, and how stepping away gave her the clarity to return on her own terms. Grace dives deep into the emotional and psychological impact of living life online, the loss of community in the creator space, and how her diagnosis reshaped her priorities. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, she’s transforming pain into art through her new live comedy show, bringing humor and honesty to life’s hardest moments. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering Grace for the first time, this episode is an inspiring, unfiltered reminder that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
Episode Sponsor:
I’ve teamed up with Babbel to give you 55% off your subscription—but only for listeners—at Babbel.com/KATI
My new book is available for pre-order!
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ
If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.
More Grace:
https://www.youtube.com/@itsgrace/videos
This Might Get Weird (podcast)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6qM1-K69UGys_BnilnWZ7w
More Kati:
https://www.youtube.com/@Katimorton
MY BOOKS
Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY
Ask Kati Anything ep. 275 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
I’ve teamed up with Babbel to give you 55% off your subscription—but only for listeners—at Babbel.com/KATI
ONLINE THERAPY (enjoy 10% off your first month)
While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist: https://betterhelp.com/kati
PARTNERSHIPS
Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
