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The Love Doc Podcast

The Love Doc Podcast

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.

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Episodes

Episode 48 | The Vagus Nerve

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Love Doc Relationship Coaching Services with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 48: The Vagus Nerve

In this powerful and informative episode, Dr. Sarah Hensley unpacks one of the most essential?yet often overlooked?players in our healing journey: the vagus nerve. As a social psychologist and attachment expert, Dr. Hensley explains how the vagus nerve functions as the primary communication superhighway between the brain and body, deeply influencing our emotional regulation, sense of safety, and ability to connect with others. She breaks down the science in an accessible, real-world way?helping listeners understand why a dysregulated nervous system keeps them stuck in survival mode, attracting unhealthy patterns and perpetuating attachment wounds.

Dr. Hensley dives into the role the vagus nerve plays in attachment and trauma, especially for those with insecure styles like anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant. When we?ve experienced relational trauma?whether through emotional neglect, inconsistency, or outright betrayal?our nervous system becomes hypervigilant. The vagus nerve responds by defaulting into fight, flight, freeze, or fawn states, often without us realizing it. That?s why you might feel a ?gut instinct? to run or shut down in the presence of intimacy, or why calmness can feel foreign after years of chaos. Dr. Hensley explains how we cannot simply ?think? our way into secure attachment?we must regulate our way there, starting with the body.

Throughout the episode, listeners are guided through practical, research-backed ways to tone and stimulate the vagus nerve. From cold exposure and deep diaphragmatic breathing to humming, prayer, laughter, and safe eye contact?Dr. Hensley outlines exercises that create real shifts in the nervous system over time. She emphasizes that healing is not a linear path of ?just letting go? or ?getting over it??it?s a deep reconnection with your body?s felt sense of safety. She also shares how vagal tone is essential in being able to pause, reflect, and choose differently in moments of relational trigger?rather than spiraling into panic, protest, or withdrawal. If you?ve ever wondered why healing feels so hard?or how to finally feel safe in love?this episode is your science-meets-soul roadmap.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of life, love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc

Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-04-15
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Episode 47 | The Law of Attraction

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Love Doc Relationship Coaching Services with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 47: The Law of Attraction

In this soul-stirring episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley dives deep into the often-misunderstood concept of the Law of Attraction?unpacking it not only through the lens of her professional and personal experience, but also through her unwavering faith.

Dr. Hensley opens the episode by grounding the conversation in her personal belief: that true, positive attraction begins with God. She welcomes listeners of all beliefs into the discussion, offering a space of inclusion and openness for anyone curious about how the Law of Attraction really works?and how it aligns with both science and faith.

The Intersection of Faith and Physics
Dr. Hensley explores how the Law of Attraction is deeply connected to Christianity and even supported by principles in quantum physics. On a quantum level, the human body and mind operate not just as passive observers but as active participants in shaping reality. She explains how, at a cellular level, we must believe wholeheartedly in the reality we want to experience?because that deep, internal conviction is what draws it to us. The energy we emit?through thoughts, feelings, and beliefs?resonates outward and co-creates our lives with God.

From a Christian perspective, this energetic alignment mirrors what Scripture teaches: ?As a man thinks in his heart, so is he? (Proverbs 23:7). Faith, in its truest form, is not passive hoping?it?s believing in what?s unseen as if it?s already done.

Rooted in God?s Will
Throughout the episode, both Dr. Hensley and her co-host Raina affirm that while the Law of Attraction is a powerful principle, its full strength is only realized when it?s aligned with God?s will. They believe wholeheartedly that God wants good things for your life?and when your desires align with His divine plan, the universe conspires to make them happen.

Receiving the Blessing
But attraction isn?t just about thinking positive thoughts?it?s also about being open to receive. Dr. Hensley discusses how we can unknowingly block blessings due to fear, doubt, or a subconscious belief that we?re not worthy. Sometimes, the only thing standing between us and the miracle is our own resistance.

The Power of Surrender and Perspective
A key takeaway from this episode is the transformative power of surrender. True manifestation often comes in the letting go?when we release the need to control outcomes and instead trust in divine timing. Dr. Hensley invites listeners to move from a ?What if the worst happens?? mindset to one of Even if.

Even if things don?t go the way we planned?
Even if we experience loss or heartbreak?
Even if we?re in the midst of pain?
We are still worthy. Still capable. Still divinely supported.

This episode is a beautiful blend of science, spirituality, and psychology, offering encouragement for anyone who wants to attract abundance, love, peace, and purpose into their life?without losing sight of God?s guiding hand.

Tune in and learn how to co-create your life with faith, trust, and divine alignment.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of life, love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc

Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-04-08
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Episode 46 | Meet Our Husbands

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 46: Meet Our Husbands

In this special and heartfelt episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher introduce their listeners to two very important people in their lives?their husbands, Donald and Josh.

Josh, Raina?s husband, was a self-proclaimed perpetual bachelor. Neither he nor Raina had been married before, and they didn?t tie the knot until they met in their 40s. Donald, Dr. Hensley?s husband, had a different journey?having been married twice before. Despite their contrasting paths, both men had one thing in common: they had grown comfortable with independence and navigating life on their own terms. They both attirbuted to being able to find thier secure attachement through being comfortable being alone.

During this candid conversation, Donald opens up about how his military service shaped both his struggles and his personal growth. Meanwhile, Josh shares how his experiences out west as a cowboy played a significant role in his emotional development.

The couples also discuss the unique dynamics of their marriages?how they manage the demands of modern life, complex schedules, and blended families. Dr. Hensley and Donald talk about raising a household of children in what they call a modern-day Brady Bunch scenario, while Raina and Josh reflect on merging their lives, with Josh stepping into a marriage where Raina already had a son.

This episode gives listeners an intimate glimpse into the real-life relationships of Dr. Hensley and Raina, highlighting the beauty and challenges of love, family, and commitment. They hope that by sharing their personal journeys, listeners will find reassurance that navigating modern relationships isn?t always easy?but through patience, understnading, and showing each other grace marriage can be joyful, inspiring, and the ultimate relationship for personal growth. 

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of life, love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc

Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-04-01
Link to episode

Episode 45 | The Drop

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 45: The Drop

In this deeply personal and reflective episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley explores ?The Drop??the inevitable moments in life when, after reaching great heights, we find ourselves falling back down. Inspired by the song The Drop by Forrest Frank, this episode delves into what it truly means to rise to success, only to be met with unexpected setbacks, challenges, and even betrayals. More importantly, Dr. Hensley unpacks how we handle these moments with humility, grace, and resilience.

Dr. Hensley shares her own journey of rising to the top?how success can make it easy to be kind, loving, and open-hearted. But she also reminds listeners that no one is immune to life?s trials, and 2024 tested her in ways she never expected. She opens up about a personal legal battle involving someone who intentionally harmed her family, as well as the devastating news that her mother?s cancer has returned after nearly five years in remission. She speaks candidly about how these experiences deeply affected her and her family, and how easy it would be to let pain turn into bitterness.

But Dr. Hensley emphasizes that suffering?while inevitable?does not have to define us. She challenges the common ?white-knuckle approach? to hardship, where people try to fight through suffering by suppressing emotions, hardening their hearts, and carrying resentment. This, she explains, only makes the pain worse, as it places unnecessary stress on the nervous system and fuels a cycle of anger and defensiveness.

Midway through the episode, Dr. Hensley shares a profound shift in perspective that changed her life:
Instead of living in the fear of ?What if??, she learned to embrace the mindset of ?Even if.?
? What if the worst happens? ? Fear, anxiety, and suffering.
? Even if the worst happens, I will stay faithful, calm, and gracious.

This shift, she explains, allowed her to let go of fear and control, and instead trust that even in hardship, there is purpose, healing, and grace.

As the episode closes, Dr. Hensley leaves listeners with a powerful reminder:
Yes, suffering is part of life. Yes, the drop can feel unfair and even cruel. But it doesn?t last forever. And more importantly, it shapes us, humbles us, and reminds us of the joy that comes from overcoming challenges with integrity and faith.

If you find yourself in a drop?whether it?s personal loss, betrayal, or a sudden setback?you are not alone. Healing is possible, and Dr. Hensley would be honored to be a resource in your journey.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating hardship and seeking a faith-driven, compassionate approach to resilience.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of life, love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc

Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-03-25
Link to episode

Episode 44 | How to Show Up as the Best Version of Your Most Authentic Self

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 44: ? Showing Up as the Best Version of Your Most Authentic Self 

In this episode, Dr. Hensley explores what it truly means to be authentic?what authenticity is, what it is not, and how to cultivate it. She emphasizes that before we can fully show up as our authentic selves, we must first confront and understand our shadow self and suppressed traits.

Dr. Hensley explains how our ability to be authentic starts with the messages we receive from caregivers in childhood. From a young age, we are taught which emotions and traits are acceptable and which should be hidden or suppressed. These early lessons shape how we navigate relationships and self-expression as adults.

Next, she delves into how different insecure attachment styles suppress certain emotions, impacting their ability to be authentic, sometimes leading to poor relationship patterns. A major part of healing involves recognizing these suppressed traits without shame and allowing oneself to express them freely.

Faith plays a significant role in this process, and Dr. Hensley shares her personal struggles with expressing certain traits. She opens up about how God?s grace and mercy have helped her work through feelings of shame and embrace her true self.

A key highlight of this episode is the perpetual people-pleaser, who struggles the most with authenticity. People-pleasers often self-abandon to maintain peace, suppressing their true needs and emotions. Dr. Hensley explains that the foundation of authenticity lies in self-trust and building a strong relationship with oneself.

Toward the end, she discusses how boundaries are essential for authenticity. She shares a real-life example from her marriage, illustrating how she has learned to embrace her authentic self without guilt or fear.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling to show up as their authentic self. If you?re ready to step into authenticity, Dr. Hensley?s services can guide you on this journey.
Visit Dr. Hensley's website at thelovedoc.com (now active) 

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc

Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-03-18
Link to episode

Episode 43 | If They Don't Want to be Kept, Don't Keep Em

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

In Episode 43 of ?The Love Doc? podcast, titled ?If They Don?t Want to Be Kept, Don?t Keep ?Em,? Dr. Hensley delves into the common question she receives from clients: ?How do I get my partner to [fill in the blank]?? She emphasizes that attempting to change a partner is futile and that true emotional security comes from recognizing that the only person one can change is oneself.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Losing Oneself in the Effort to Change a Partner:
She warns against the dangers of contorting oneself to induce change in a partner, often leading to a loss of personal identity and autonomy. This behavior can result in emotional exhaustion and dissatisfaction.
2. The Fallacy of Loving Someone Enough to Change Them:
Dr. Hensley addresses the misconception that one can love someone into changing. She asserts that change must come from within an individual who is ready and willing; external pressure is ineffective and can be detrimental.
3. Coercion vs. Genuine Expression of Love:
Attempting to force or manipulate a partner into meeting one?s needs is not a true expression of love. Authentic love respects autonomy and encourages voluntary, mutual effort in the relationship.
4. Recognizing When a Partner Is Not Capable of Commitment:
Dr. Hensley emphasizes the importance of acknowledging when a partner consistently demonstrates an inability or unwillingness to commit. Persisting in such situations leads to frustration and hinders personal growth.

Subconscious Manipulation and Emotional Exhaustion:

The episode delves into the subconscious manipulation involved in trying to retain a partner who is unwilling or unable to meet one?s needs. This dynamic leads to emotional exhaustion and disrupts the nervous system, fostering dysfunction and instability in the relationship.

Attachment Styles and the Push-Pull Dynamic:

Dr. Hensley explores attachment styles, particularly the fearful-avoidant and dismissive-avoidant pairings, where push-pull dynamics are prevalent:
? Fearful-Avoidant Attachment: Characterized by a desire for intimacy coupled with a fear of getting hurt, leading to ambivalence and mistrust in relationships.
? Dismissive-Avoidant Attachment: Marked by a preference for independence and discomfort with closeness, resulting in emotional distance and a tendency to withdraw from partners.

When individuals with these attachment styles pair together, a cyclical pattern of pursuing and distancing ensues, creating instability and dissatisfaction.

Advice for Breaking the Cycle:

Towards the end of the episode, Dr. Hensley offers guidance for those trapped in unfulfilling dynamics:
? Toxic Hope: Recognize and release the unrealistic expectation that a partner will change, which perpetuates unhealthy attachment and prolongs suffering.
? Radical Acceptance: Embrace the reality of the situation without resistance, acknowledging that one cannot control or change another?s behavior.

These concepts and more are elaborated upon in her new breakup course (now live and ready for purchse), designed to help individuals cultivate inner safety and trust in their decision-making, empowering them to leave relationships that do not serve their well-being.

Visit Dr. Hensley's website at thelovedoc.com (now active) 

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc

Facebook: Dr. Sarah Hensley

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-03-11
Link to episode

Episode 42 | Navigating Divorce

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 42 ? How to Navigate Divorce

In this powerful episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley takes a deep dive into one of the most difficult and life-altering experiences a person can face?divorce. With compassion, insight, and real-life experience from coaching hundreds of clients, she offers a roadmap for navigating the process in the healthiest way possible.

When Is Divorce Acceptable?
Dr. Hensley begins the episode by addressing a critical question: When is divorce justified? She makes it clear that while every marriage has challenges, certain circumstances?such as infidelity, emotional abuse, physical abuse, and neglect?are valid and acceptable reasons to leave a marriage. However, she also emphasizes that nothing in this episode should be taken as legal advice; instead, she shares wisdom based on her personal experience and extensive coaching work.

Step 1: Accepting Your Partner?s Decision
One of the first steps in navigating divorce is accepting your partner?s boundary if they have filed for divorce. Dr. Hensley stresses the importance of expressing your feelings openly and compassionately?whether or not you want the divorce?without becoming needy, pushy, or anxious. This approach allows for open communication and ensures that divorce isn?t being used as a mere threat.

Step 2: Creating Emotional and Physical Space
She then explores the importance of creating both emotional and physical distance. This space provides clarity, helping individuals truly understand what life will be like post-divorce. By stepping back, people can gain perspective on whether they are seeking reconciliation out of genuine desire or simply fearing change.

Step 3: Understanding the Legal Process
A major portion of the episode is dedicated to the legal aspects of divorce. Dr. Hensley underscores the importance of securing a strong attorney and thoroughly understanding state-specific divorce and custody laws. She encourages listeners to seek individual legal counsel?even in seemingly amicable divorces?because legal protection is crucial in navigating financial and custody matters.

Step 4: Communication During Divorce
Dr. Hensley provides actionable strategies for communication during the divorce process. She explains how to maintain open dialogue without overstepping boundaries and gives specific language that can help avoid unnecessary conflict. She also discusses the challenges of co-parenting and offers guidance on ensuring children feel emotionally supported throughout the transition.

Can a Marriage Be Saved?
Halfway through the episode, Dr. Hensley shifts gears to discuss cases where marriages have been salvaged from the brink of divorce. She shares success stories from her coaching program, illustrating how the tools she teaches can help couples reconnect and repair their relationships. She also provides a realistic timeline for seeing meaningful change when both partners commit to the work.

Attachment Styles and Divorce
Next, Dr. Hensley examines how different attachment styles handle divorce?and where each one typically goes wrong:
? Anxious-preoccupied individuals may cling to the relationship, struggle with self-worth, and resist letting go.
? Dismissive avoidants may shut down emotionally, minimize the pain, and attempt to move on too quickly.
? Fearful avoidants often experience inner conflict, cycling between wanting connection and pushing their partner away.
She offers targeted advice for each attachment style, helping listeners recognize their patterns and make healthier choices during this transition.

Breaking Free from Trauma Bonds
One of the most challenging aspects of divorce is severing a trauma bond?especially in toxic or abusive relationships. Dr. Hensley outlines a key strategy she teaches in her coaching program:
? Practicing radical acceptance of the situation.
? Immersing oneself in the truth by writing out relationship issues and reading them daily.
By consistently reinforcing reality, individuals can shift their mindset and begin the process of emotional detachment.

Should You Wait Before Divorcing?
For those who feel uncertain, Dr. Hensley advises taking true inventory of the relationship for 3 to 6 months before making a final decision. She stresses the importance of focusing on personal growth and reaching secure attachment before deciding whether divorce is truly the right path.

Final Thoughts: The Legal and Emotional Reality of Divorce
Dr. Hensley concludes the episode by revisiting the legal complexities of divorce, reiterating how critical it is to protect oneself legally?especially when children are involved. She acknowledges that divorce often brings out the worst in people, making legal representation essential. She also reminds listeners that while divorce is painful, it can also be an opportunity for renewal.

Divorce as a New Beginning
Dr. Hensley leaves listeners with a hopeful message: Divorce, while painful, is not the end?it?s a blank canvas. It is a chance to rebuild, rediscover personal identity, and create a life aligned with one?s values and desires. Though the process may be difficult, it also brings the possibility of newfound freedom, growth, and ultimately, happiness.

This episode provides a compassionate, insightful, and practical guide for anyone navigating divorce?whether they are in the midst of it, contemplating it, or trying to heal from it.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-03-04
Link to episode

Episode 41 | Friendship in Your Forties

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 41: Friendship in Your Forties 

Friendship, like any other relationship, can be complex to navigate?especially as you grow, heal, and move toward attachment security. In this episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher take a deep dive into how friendships evolve once you?ve reached emotional security, why some friendships don?t survive, and what true friendship really looks like.

While the title suggests a focus on friendships in your 40s, this episode is relevant for anyone, regardless of age, because friendship dynamics shift as we mature, heal, and redefine our boundaries.

How Friendships Change with Attachment Security

Dr. Hensley explains that once you achieve attachment security, your standards for friendship change. You become more intentional about the relationships you maintain, prioritizing mutual respect, peace, and personal growth. She breaks down what you will and won?t stand for in friendships once you?ve reached this level of emotional health, including:
? Setting Boundaries ? You no longer tolerate one-sided friendships, lack of reciprocity, or emotional drain.
? A No-Drama Policy ? You disengage from gossip, toxicity, and unnecessary conflict.
? Caring Less About What Others Think ? You prioritize your inner peace over external validation.
? Protecting Your Peace at All Costs ? You release friendships that feel heavy, draining, or unsupportive.

Personal Experiences & People-Pleasing in Friendships

Both Dr. Hensley and Raina open up about friendships they?ve lost after achieving attachment security. Raina shares that she?s still struggling with people-pleasing tendencies in her friendships, and Dr. Hensley helps her unpack the root cause?attachment wounds that make it hard to say no or risk losing connection.

Dr. Hensley emphasizes that true friendship isn?t about sacrificing your well-being to keep others happy. Instead, secure friendships allow for honesty, mutual respect, and space for each person to grow.

The Evolution of Their Own Friendship

Dr. Hensley and Raina reflect on how their own friendship has deepened as they?ve both grown in emotional security. What started as a friendship built on common interests has transformed into something much deeper?rooted in trust, honesty, and emotional safety.

Dr. Hensley shares how, before reaching attachment security, she relied on a ?Rolodex? of friends to vent to or help soothe her emotions. Now, using the self-regulation tools she teaches in her coaching practice, she no longer seeks friendships as a form of emotional outsourcing. Instead, she views friendship as a space for mutual support and respect, rather than an emotional dumping ground.

Why Friendships End When One Person Becomes Secure

One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation is how friendships can mirror romantic relationships. Dr. Hensley explains that just like in romantic relationships, friendships often break down when one person becomes attachment secure and the other remains stuck in insecurity.

She and Raina discuss a hard truth:
? Some friendships don?t end because of conflict; they end because one person grows and the other doesn?t.
? Not all friends want to see you succeed. True friendship isn?t just about supporting someone in hard times; it?s also about celebrating their wins without jealousy or resentment.

Friendship Among Men & Friendships Lost in Divorce

Dr. Hensley also touches on the unique struggles men face in maintaining friendships later in life. She explains that:
? Men often struggle with emotional depth in friendships compared to women.
? Many male friendships are activity-based, making it harder to find deep, emotionally secure friendships.
? Divorce often leads to friendship losses, as mutual friends take sides or the shifting dynamic makes maintaining friendships more complicated.

God?s Role in Friendship & Letting Go

As always, Dr. Hensley brings faith into the conversation, sharing how God?s friendship has shaped her life. She acknowledges that God has both brought friendships into her life and removed others for her greater good.

In the end, she encourages listeners to embrace the seasons of friendship?some friends are meant for a chapter, while others are meant for a lifetime. By letting go of friendships that no longer serve you, you create space for those that bring true peace, connection, and joy.

Final Takeaway

Friendships will evolve as you do. If you?re healing, growing, and becoming more secure, it?s natural for some friendships to shift, fade, or even end. But the friendships that remain?the ones built on mutual respect, trust, and joy?are the ones worth keeping.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating friendship changes at any stage of life. Whether you?re redefining your boundaries, struggling with people-pleasing, or learning how to cultivate secure, meaningful friendships, Dr. Hensley and Raina?s insights will help you approach friendship with clarity, confidence, and peace.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

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2025-02-25
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Episode 40 | The Bright Side of Suffering

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

The Love Doc Podcast ? Episode 40: "The Bright Side of Suffering." In this transformative episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley explores one of the most difficult yet essential aspects of the human experience?suffering. Rather than something to fear or avoid, she reframes suffering as a necessary force for growth, resilience, and transformation?but only if we allow it to serve that purpose.

Why Do Some People Break While Others Rise? The Science of Suffering
Dr. Hensley begins the episode by addressing a fundamental question: Why do some people experience post-traumatic stress while others experience post-traumatic growth? She discusses the psychological and neurological factors that determine whether suffering will lead to breakdown or breakthrough.She highlights a study that examined two different therapeutic approaches for trauma survivors:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, problem-focused therapy that helps individuals change negative thought patterns.Positive Psychological Interventions (PPI): A strengths-based approach that focuses on resilience, finding meaning in suffering, and reframing challenges in a positive light.The study revealed that individuals who underwent PPI showed greater post-traumatic growth compared to those who only engaged in CBT. This is because PPIs encourage individuals to see their pain as part of a bigger picture, whereas CBT primarily focuses on managing symptoms.

Faith and the Power of Redemption in Suffering
As the episode progresses, Dr. Hensley shares a deeply personal perspective on suffering?one rooted in faith. She explains how her own hardships have been catalysts for spiritual growth, helping her develop deeper trust and surrender.She reflects on the suffering of Christ, emphasizing that His sacrifice was the ultimate example of how pain can lead to redemption. Through faith, suffering can take on a greater purpose, allowing people to transcend their pain rather than be defined by it.

The Role of Community in Healing
Dr. Hensley stresses that healing from suffering is not meant to be done alone. She explores the importance of community and connection, explaining how isolation often prolongs suffering while healthy relationships create a safe space for healing and transformation. Whether through friendships, support groups, or spiritual communities, surrounding oneself with understanding and uplifting people can make all the difference.

Attachment Styles and How They Influence Healing
At the midpoint of the episode, Dr. Hensley shifts the discussion to attachment theory, explaining how different attachment styles process and cope with suffering:
Anxious Attachment: Those with an anxious attachment style often get stuck in victimhood, replaying their pain and seeking validation to soothe their wounds. They struggle with letting go and moving forward.Avoidant Attachment: On the other hand, avoidant individuals tend to suppress and dismiss their suffering, refusing to acknowledge their pain. They may appear strong on the outside but often struggle with deep emotional disconnect.Dr. Hensley shares specific strategies for each attachment style to help them move through suffering in a healthier way.

Somatic Healing: Moving Through Suffering with the Body
One of the most crucial parts of healing, Dr. Hensley explains, is not just feeling emotions, but actually processing them through the body. She introduces somatic healing techniques?practices that help release stored trauma and emotions physically, since emotions are "energy in motion."She shares different methods to create safety in the body, including:
Breathwork to regulate the nervous systemGrounding exercises to reconnect with the present momentMovement-based practices like yoga, shaking, or dance to release stored emotional energyDr. Hensley emphasizes that growth from suffering requires more than intellectual processing?it requires physical release and transformation.

The Difference Between Therapy and Coaching in Healing
As the episode nears its conclusion, Dr. Hensley breaks down the key differences between therapy and coaching when it comes to healing from suffering:
Therapy: Primarily focuses on processing past trauma, offering a safe space to understand and work through emotions.Coaching: Takes a prescriptive and action-oriented approach, providing concrete tools to change behavior and rewire neural pathways for long-term transformation.Dr. Hensley explains that while therapy is invaluable for understanding pain, coaching is essential for creating real, lasting change?helping individuals take proactive steps toward rewiring their mindset, behaviors, and emotional responses.

Final Takeaway: Growth is a Choice
Dr. Hensley wraps up the episode with a powerful message:
"Suffering is inevitable, but what you do with it is up to you. Will you let it break you, or will you let it build you into the highest version of yourself?" This episode is both deeply personal and profoundly practical, providing listeners with the tools, insights, and inspiration to embrace suffering as a stepping stone to greatness.




Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-02-18
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Episode 39 | The Tik Tok Ban Part II

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 39: The TikTok Ban Part II

In this episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley expands on the ongoing TikTok ban debate, following the discussion from episode 37, when the ban was still pending. A lot has changed in a short time?including a dark period where TikTok temporarily disappeared?leaving creators, businesses, and everyday users in a state of uncertainty.

Dr. Hensley begins by breaking down the Supreme Court ruling, expressing her surprise at how quickly the decision was made. She argues that the ruling did not fully consider the economic impact of losing TikTok, both directly for content creators and indirectly for businesses that rely on the platform for marketing. She also highlights which senators are currently working on legislative measures to protect TikTok, emphasizing their efforts to prevent the U.S. economy from suffering due to a potential ban.

Dr. Hensley then explains Project Texas, TikTok?s initiative to address U.S. security concerns by storing American user data domestically and increasing transparency through third-party audits. She expresses disappointment that the court did not take a more balanced approach?such as allowing more time for audits before making a ruling?rather than pushing for an outright ban.

Dr. Hensley then shares her firsthand experience on a call with 50 TikTok creators and Senator Ro Khanna following the ruling. She gives a special shoutout to Ro Khanna for listening to creators? personal stories about how TikTok has changed their lives. Reflecting on her own journey, she speaks about how the platform has allowed her to grow her business, reach thousands of clients, and help people find and sustain healthy relationships.

She then discusses the broader consequences of the ruling, including the potential legal risks for service providers like Apple and Google if they continued to offer TikTok for download. She explains how these companies could have, and still could, face legal challenges and financial penalties had they not complied with the ruling.

Halfway through the episode, Dr. Hensley shifts to analyzing the deal that former President Trump negotiated to create a 75-day extension, delaying the enforcement of the ban. She explains the terms of this deal and the political maneuvering behind it.

She also highlights the efforts of Senator Ed Markey, who advocated for an extension that would allow TikTok to remain operational while the government figured out how to protect national security. However, she notes that Senator Tom Cotton was the only person in Congress to oppose Markey?s extension, standing firmly in favor of the ban.

Dr. Hensley ends the episode with a powerful call to action, urging listeners to stand up for free speech and their First Amendment rights. She encourages everyone who values TikTok to sign the petition to repeal the ban, emphasizing that the fight is far from over. She reminds listeners that their voices matter and that advocating for their platform is essential in preserving digital freedom and economic opportunity.

This episode is a must-listen for TikTok creators, business owners, and anyone invested in the future of digital content creation in the U.S.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

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2025-02-11
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Episode 38 | The Most Painful Relationship Dynamic

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 38: The Most Painful Relationship Dynamic

In this deeply insightful episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley explores what she considers the most painful romantic dynamic outside of relationships with narcissists or those with personality disorders: the Fearful-Avoidant (FA) and Dismissive-Avoidant (DA) attachment pairing.

Why Is This the Most Painful Dynamic?

Dr. Hensley begins by breaking down the core traits of each attachment style:
? Fearful-Avoidants (FAs) crave deep emotional intimacy but simultaneously fear it, oscillating between intense closeness and withdrawal. Their internal struggle stems from an upbringing marked by trauma, inconsistency, and trust breaks?often experiencing both love and fear from caregivers.
? Dismissive-Avoidants (DAs), on the other hand, prioritize independence and emotional self-sufficiency. They typically shut down in the face of relational tension, having learned early on that vulnerability is unsafe and that they must rely on themselves.

When these two attachment styles fall in love, the cycle of attraction and rejection becomes excruciatingly painful:
? Push-Pull Dynamics: The FA constantly seeks reassurance, only to pull away when it feels too overwhelming, while the DA maintains emotional distance, reinforcing the FA?s fears of not being able to trust anyone.
? Emotional Misalignment: The FA interprets the DA?s withdrawal as rejection, triggering intense anxiety and protest behaviors, while the DA feels overwhelmed by the FA?s emotional needs and shuts down further.
? Unresolved Childhood Wounds: Both partners unknowingly re-enact childhood patterns?FAs chase unresponsive caregivers, while DAs retreat to the emotional solitude they relied on as children.

Why Are They Attracted to Each Other?

Midway through the episode, Dr. Hensley delves into one of the most fascinating aspects of insecure attachment: shadow attraction?the unconscious draw toward partners who reflect our deepest fears, wounds, and unintegrated parts of ourselves.
? The FA?s Shadow: The fearful-avoidant deeply fears abandonment but is paradoxically drawn to emotionally unavailable partners (DAs) because they reinforce the FA?s core belief: ?I am not safe in love.? Since thier emotions tend to be all over the place they are drawn to the emotional stabitity that the DA partner protrays. 
? The DA?s Shadow: The dismissive-avoidant, though appearing independent, often harbors deep loneliness and suppressed emotional needs. They are magnetized by the FA?s emotional intensity, as it represents the feelings they?ve long suppressed. Since their emotions tend to be more supressed they become enamored by the FA's openess to express emotional vulnerability. 

Dr. Hensley explains that insecurely attached individuals are attracted to their shadows because their subconscious mind seeks familiarity, even if it is painful. Healing requires recognizing this attraction as a mirror rather than a destiny.

How Can This Relationship Work?

Although this dynamic is inherently painful, Dr. Hensley assures listeners that healing and transformation are possible. She shares tools and strategies from her coaching practice that help break the toxic cycle and create a more secure bond.
? For Fearful-Avoidants: Learning to regulate their nervous system and develop self-trust, so they are not constantly seeking reassurance from an emotionally unavailable partner.
? For Dismissive-Avoidants: Developing emotional literacy and recognizing that avoiding emotions does not equal true independence.
? For Both Partners: Understanding the trauma responses at play, fostering direct communication, and shifting the relationship from one of reactivity to intentionality.

Dr. Hensley offers practical steps, including boundary-setting exercises, communication techniques, and self-reflection practices, while keeping some of her most transformative methods reserved for her private clients and programs.

Because this is the most common and painful dynamic Dr. Hensley sees in her practice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone trapped in the FA-DA cycle. It provides both clarity and hope, offering a roadmap to understanding why these relationships feel impossible and how, with the right tools, they can evolve into something healthier.

Whether you?re struggling in this dynamic or simply want to deepen your knowledge of attachment, this episode is packed with raw insights, expert guidance, and real solutions?don?t miss it!
Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-02-04
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Episode 37 | The Tik-Tok Ban

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 37: ?The TikTok Ban?

In this episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley takes a step outside her usual relationship-focused discussions to dive into a topic that?s deeply personal and timely: the TikTok ban. Known as her ?home base,? TikTok is where Dr. Hensley?s journey began and where she built her most loyal community. She discusses why she believes TikTok is the best platform for amplifying organic voices without conditions or algorithms that stifle creators?a stark contrast to other social platforms.

Dr. Hensley acknowledges the flood of misinformation surrounding the TikTok ban and emphasizes the importance of educating the public about what?s really happening. Drawing on her extensive research and the developments she?s followed closely, she outlines the key players and moments in this ongoing story.

Dr. Hensley breaks this episode down with the following categories. 
*TikTok?s Role in Dr. Hensley?s Journey
? Why TikTok feels like home and why it?s unique compared to other platforms.
? The power of TikTok to amplify diverse and organic voices.
? How the platform helped her connect with her audience authentically.

*Origins of the TikTok Ban Discussion
? Concerns over TikTok?s ownership by ByteDance, a Chinese company.
? Fears about national security, data privacy, and the potential for Chinese government access to American user data.

* Both former President Biden and President Trump?s Roles in how and why the tik tok ban is happening.

*Congress and the Senate?s Role
? Hearings with TikTok?s CEO and other stakeholders.
? The bipartisan concerns about foreign influence, misinformation, and the need for stricter data privacy laws.
? Differing perspectives on whether banning TikTok is a solution or a distraction.

* The impact on Creators and Communities
? The potential fallout for creators who rely on TikTok for connection and income.
? How a ban could shift social media dynamics and stifle the organic reach that creators depend on.

*Dr. Hensley?s Takeaway
? Why it?s crucial for American people to be educated about the motivations behind these actions.
? The broader implications of censorship and government overreach on free speech.
? Her hope for a balanced solution that protects both privacy and the creative freedom of platforms like TikTok.

Dr. Hensley concludes by sharing her unwavering belief in the power of creators and communities to adapt and thrive, no matter the platform. She encourages her listeners to stay informed, engaged, and proactive in understanding the policies that affect their digital lives as well as thier constitutional rights. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the ongoing debate surrounding TikTok and its future in the U.S.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-01-28
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Episode 36 | Why They Cheat

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 36: Why They Cheat

In episode 36 of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley takes a deep dive into the complex reasons behind infidelity, viewed through the lens of attachment theory. As a seasoned social psychologist and attachment expert, she offers a nuanced exploration of why individuals from different attachment styles might cheat, shedding light on the often-hidden wounds that drive this behavior.

Why Each Attachment Style Might Cheat
1. Dismissive Avoidant:
Dismissive avoidants often cheat as a way to maintain emotional distance and protect their independence. Deep down, they fear vulnerability and intimacy, and cheating allows them to avoid the commitment that comes with being fully emotionally present. They may rationalize their behavior as a way to preserve their sense of autonomy.
2. Fearful Avoidant:
With a mix of longing for closeness and a fear of rejection, fearful avoidants may cheat due to their inconsistent emotional needs. They might seek validation or comfort from someone outside the relationship while simultaneously pushing their primary partner away out of fear of betrayal. Their inner conflict often leads to impulsive decisions driven by unresolved trauma.
3. Anxious Preoccupied:
Anxious-preoccupied individuals are highly driven by a fear of being unloved or abandoned. They might cheat as a misguided attempt to get attention, reassurance, or to feel desired. Often, their infidelity stems from insecurity and an underlying belief that their partner isn?t meeting their emotional needs.

Recovering From Infidelity

Midway through the episode, Dr. Hensley shifts gears to discuss the aftermath of cheating and how couples can work to rebuild trust?if they choose to do so. She explains that recovery from infidelity is an uphill battle, requiring immense effort, vulnerability, and accountability from both partners.
? Steps to Recovery: Dr. Hensley outlines specific steps for couples attempting to heal:
1. Complete transparency and accountability from the unfaithful partner.
2. Commitment to honest communication, even when it?s uncomfortable.
3. Addressing the root cause of the infidelity, often tied to individual attachment wounds.
4. Seeking professional guidance to navigate the intense emotions and triggers that surface during this process.

However, Dr. Hensley candidly shares her professional opinion: full recovery from infidelity is rare. While some couples rebuild stronger relationships, most struggle to regain the trust and emotional safety necessary for long-term connection.

Support for Those Impacted by Infidelity

In the final segment, Dr. Hensley emphasizes the importance of compassionate, actionable support for individuals navigating the aftermath of infidelity. Whether listeners are healing from divorce, trying to mend a relationship, or contemplating leaving, Dr. Hensley?s coaching practices offer a lifeline.

She highlights how her tools and tactics?grounded in attachment theory and years of experience?equip clients to:
? Regulate their nervous system amidst emotional turmoil.
? Break free from self-blame and shame cycles.
? Set and enforce healthy boundaries, regardless of their decision to stay or leave.

Dr. Hensley assures her audience that while the pain of infidelity is profound, it is possible to heal, grow, and rediscover self-worth. Her compassionate approach provides both validation and practical strategies, empowering clients to navigate one of the most painful experiences in any relationship.

Tune in to this episode for an eye-opening discussion that combines academic insight with heartfelt guidance for those grappling with the fallout of infidelity.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-01-21
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Episode 35 | The Fearful Avoidant

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 35: The Fearful Avoidant

In episode 35 of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley dives deep into the world of the Fearful Avoidant (FA) attachment style, the most complex and variable of all attachment types. Known in earlier psychological frameworks as disorganized attachment, FAs oscillate between seeking closeness and pulling away, leaving both themselves and their partners in a cycle of confusion and pain.

What Makes the Fearful Avoidant Unique?

Dr. Hensley explains that FAs are the hardest attachment style to pinpoint because they embody traits from both anxious and avoidant types. Their deep inner conflict is rooted in a profound trust and betrayal wound, which makes it challenging for them to feel secure in relationships.
? The Push-Pull Dynamic: FAs often seek connection, craving closeness, but then feel misunderstood or betrayed and instinctively push their partner away. This paradox creates a cycle of emotional highs and lows in their romantic relationships.

Where Attachment Begins: The Childhood of an FA

Dr. Hensley traces the origins of FA attachment back to childhood, often shaped by the most trauma-filled environments. These traumas can include:
? Big T traumas (e.g., abuse, neglect, abandonment).
? Little T traumas (e.g., invalidation, inconsistency, emotional neglect).

She also emphasizes that FAs typically grow up with at least one emotionally dysfunctional caregiver, further complicating their ability to trust and feel safe.

The Role of Parents:
? Same-gender parent: Science suggests this parent leaves the deepest imprint on the child?s attachment patterns.
? Both parents: Combined, their behaviors create the template that teaches the FA that love is not safe, leading to deep-seated trust and betrayal wounds.

The Negative Traits of an FA

Dr. Hensley breaks down the challenging traits of FAs, especially how they manifest in adult romantic relationships:
1. Hypervigilance:
? FAs are highly attuned to subtle cues but often catastrophize them.
? This makes them extremely sensitive and easily triggered, as their deep wounds leave them vulnerable to perceived rejection or betrayal.
2. Trauma Responses:
? Anxious-leaning FAs tend to react with anger and heightened emotional reactivity.
? Avoidant-leaning FAs often dissociate, emotionally shutting down after feeling they?ve tried too hard for too long.
3. Negative Bias in Relationships:
? FAs often approach their romantic relationships with a belief that betrayal is inevitable, leading to high levels of criticism and difficulty repairing conflicts.
4. Poor Partner Choices:
? Subconscious patterns often lead FAs to pick emotionally unavailable or harmful partners, such as other FAs, dismissive avoidants, narcissists, or individuals struggling with substance abuse.

The Positive Traits of an FA

Despite their challenges, FAs possess incredible strengths, especially once they begin healing:
1. High Empathy:
? Their ability to deeply understand and feel for others allows them to create profound connections.
? Dr. Hensley cautions FAs to establish boundaries around their empathy to avoid co-dependency or self-abandonment.
2. High Emotional Intelligence (EQ):
? FAs are often exceptional in careers requiring deep emotional awareness and social skills, such as sales, law, or politics.
3. Depth and Connection:
? As deep feelers, healed FAs can foster rich, meaningful relationships that are both emotionally fulfilling and long-lasting.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Hensley concludes the episode by emphasizing that while FAs are complex and deeply wounded, their capacity for growth and transformation is unparalleled. They are true fighters, with a grit that comes only from thier deep feelings and high emotional IQ's. With healing and self-awareness, FAs can become some of the most empathetic, emotionally intelligent, and loving partners.

?Fearful Avoidants,? Dr. Hensley says, ?are proof that beauty can emerge from brokenness. Their complexity is what makes them truly special.?

Tune in to hear more about how FAs can harness their strengths, heal their wounds, and build secure, lasting connections.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-01-14
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Episode 34 | Accountability

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 34: "Accountability"

In this episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley dives deep into the concept of accountability, exploring what it means, what it looks like, and why it is essential for the success of all relationships. Dr. Hensley highlights that lack of accountability is at the root of most relationship issues, emphasizing that true accountability involves both a statement of acknowledgment and actionable change.

Why Is Accountability So Difficult?

Dr. Hensley explains that the core barrier to accountability is shame. Criticism is hard for anyone to hear, especially when it comes from someone they love. Yet, taking responsibility for how our actions impact others is vital for relational growth.

She explores how accountability challenges manifest across attachment styles:
? Fearful Avoidants: Often struggle due to complex trauma and high levels of shame, leading them to become defensive before accepting responsibility.
? Anxious Preoccupied: Tend to take too much accountability, often self-abandoning or apologizing without understanding what they?re apologizing for, in an effort to avoid conflict.
? Dismissive Avoidants: The least likely to take accountability due to low emotional intelligence, making it hard for them to see their role in relational issues.

The Role of Accountability in Conflict Repair

Dr. Hensley delves into how resentment builds when neither party takes accountability, stressing that acknowledgment and action are the foundations for repairing conflict. This applies not just to romantic relationships but also to friendships and parent-child dynamics.

She clarifies that accountability doesn?t mean sacrificing your own beliefs or boundaries?it?s about recognizing how your actions may hurt someone else and taking responsibility, even if the same behavior wouldn?t affect you in the same way.

Accountability as a Two-Way Street

Towards the end of the episode, Dr. Hensley addresses common objections people have when confronted with accountability, such as:
? ?But what about their behavior??
? ?My partner is so unreasonable.?
? ?I never hear ?I?m sorry.??

While grace is essential in relationships, Dr. Hensley challenges listeners to reflect on why they continue to accept hurtful behaviors. Ultimately, accountability is a two-way street?it?s about both taking responsibility for your actions and holding yourself accountable for staying in relationships that don?t meet your needs.

Key Takeaway: Accountability is the hallmark of emotional resilience and maturity, and it?s fundamental for conflict repair and relationship success.

Tune in for this powerful episode and learn how to cultivate accountability to strengthen your relationships and honor yourself.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2025-01-07
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Episode 33 | The Dismissive Avoidant

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 33: The Dismissive Avoidant

In this episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley dives deep into the attachment style that many find both fascinating and frustrating?the dismissive avoidant (DA). While the DA is often seen as the most perplexing of the insecure attachment styles, Dr. Hensley explains that their behaviors are actually the most predictable.

The episode begins with an exploration of two common childhood experiences that shape the dismissive avoidant attachment style. Many DAs report having a ?good? childhood?parents who stayed married and supported instrumental needs like attending events. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear there was little to no emotional support. From a young age, DAs learned that suppressing emotions kept them safe, as big emotions were unwelcome or even punished.

Dr. Hensley then explains the infamous 4-6 month ?bait and switch? often seen in DA relationships. In the early stages, they appear open and even vulnerable, but as the relationship deepens, they start to deactivate. These deactivation behaviors?feeling smothered, doubting the relationship, or fearing a loss of independence?are often unconscious yet highly predictable.

The discussion moves to the DA?s core wound: defectiveness. Growing up, their emotions were invalidated, leading them to believe they were inherently flawed. In adult relationships, when their partner expresses intense emotions, the DA subconsciously feels responsible, thinking, ?I must be bad if I made you feel this way.? Unfortunately, they lack the capacity to hold space for those feelings, perpetuating the cycle of disconnection.

Dr. Hensley also tackles the topic of sex and intimacy in DA relationships. For some, sex feels like another expectation they?re unable to fulfill emotionally or physically. Others use sex as a way to meet their limited need for emotional and physical connection.

A key highlight of the episode is Dr. Hensley?s explanation of the DA?s trauma responses, particularly their tendency to live in a state of functional freeze. They?re either ?on,? constantly busy with tasks to avoid emotions, or ?off,? dissociating from the important things in their lives.

Midway through, Dr. Hensley addresses a small subset of DAs who experience severe trauma within the first five years of life. In these cases, the brain shuts down to protect itself, resulting in even deeper emotional challenges, through disconnection, later in life.

The episode concludes with a path to healing for both DAs and their partners. Dr. Hensley provides actionable strategies for recognizing DA patterns in the dating phase and practical interventions for those in long-term relationships or marriages. Through her programs, she has witnessed countless transformations, with DAs finding genuine connection and their formerly anxious partners moving toward secure attachment.

Additional topics include:
? Why DAs are the attachment style most likely to cheat.
? The motivations behind a DA?s decision to heal.
? How the tools and strategies in Dr. Hensley?s coaching program enable true healing for DAs and their partners.

This episode offers hope, clarity, and a practical roadmap for navigating relationships with dismissive avoidants and fostering secure attachment.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or her Hybrid Group Coaching Program. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-12-31
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Episode 32 | Live Coaching Session with Rozerin

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 32: Live Coaching Session with Rozerin

In this groundbreaking episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah invites listeners into her virtual coaching room for the first-ever live adult attachment interview with special guest Rozerin. A graduate of Dr. Sarah?s hybrid group coaching program, Rozerin had long dreamed of experiencing a one-on-one assessment. Dr. Sarah opens this session to the public, giving listeners a firsthand look at the depth, insight, and transformation these sessions provide.

Topics Explored in the Interview

Dr. Sarah guides Rozerin through a detailed exploration of four key areas:
1. Childhood Experiences
? Rozerin shares her upbringing, reflecting on trauma-related events, the dynamics between her parents, and how her caregivers influenced her ability to emotionally regulate as a child.
2. Previous Romantic Relationships
? The session delves into Rozerin?s two or three most significant relationships, unpacking their core challenges and the reasons they ended, and/or if she is currently still in any of them.
3. Emotional Vulnerability
? Rozerin examines her capacity to share her deepest thoughts, feelings, and fears with her partner, discussing the ease or difficulty of achieving emotional intimacy.
4. Conflict Behaviors
? The discussion covers the ways she and her partner respond to conflict, including levels of emotional reactivity, resolution strategies, and patterns that emerge during disagreements.

Attachment Style Analysis

Following the interview, Dr. Sarah determines that both Rozerin and her partner are fearful avoidants, with Rozerin leaning more anxious and her boyfriend more dismissive. Dr. Sarah provides an in-depth explanation of how fearful avoidant attachment is formed, highlighting the core wounds of betrayal and abandonment. She connects these wounds to Rozerin?s childhood experiences and illustrates how they manifest in her current relationship dynamics.

Exploring Healing Goals

Acknowledging that healing is an ongoing journey, Dr. Sarah asks Rozerin to identify areas where she still feels gaps in her progress. Rozerin admits to struggling with a negative bias toward her partner, often assuming the worst-case scenario in their interactions. However, she shares that the tools and strategies from Dr. Sarah?s group program have significantly improved her mindset, leading to increased happiness, positivity, and reduced anxiety.

Concrete Tools for Overcoming Negative Bias

Dr. Sarah closes the session with actionable interventions to help Rozerin stop negative biases in their tracks. She emphasizes the importance of catching and correcting old patterns, a hallmark of secure attachment, and equips Rozerin with practical tools to continue her healing journey.

This powerful episode offers deep insights into attachment theory, personal growth, and the transformative potential of Dr. Sarah?s coaching methods. Tune in for a raw, real, and inspirational look at Dr. Hensley's healing process in action.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or one of her Hybrid Group Coaching Programs. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: @drsarahhensley

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-12-24
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Episode 31 | Forgiving the Unforgivable

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 31: Forgiving the Unforgivable

In this deeply moving episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah tackles the profound challenge of forgiving the unforgivable. She explains why forgiveness is vital for personal healing?even when there?s no apology?and how forgiveness is ultimately for your benefit, not for the person or situation that caused harm.

Dr. Sarah begins by discussing the hope and transformation that true forgiveness can bring, clarifying that forgiveness doesn?t mean becoming boundaryless. Instead, it?s about releasing bitterness and resentment while maintaining respect for your own needs.

She delves into the connection between forgiveness and attachment patterns, highlighting two common toxic responses: those who avoid forgiveness by leaving abruptly and those who stay in harmful situations due to anxiety. Dr. Sarah explores how bitterness often stems from a fear of being hurt again and acts as a shield that ultimately blocks healing.

Drawing on research, she connects bitterness and unforgiveness to chronic illness, linking these emotions to an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and even cancer. Dr. Sarah also reflects on her own experience with forgiveness after the death of her ex-husband, crediting her faith in God for helping her release anger and find peace.

Midway through, Dr. Sarah explains how unforgiveness keeps us trapped in trauma responses and prevents nervous system regulation. She emphasizes that self-forgiveness is essential for true healing, describing the importance of ?catch and correct? as a strategy for maintaining attachment security.

The episode concludes with Dr. Sarah and Raina sharing personal reflections, including acknowledging positive qualities in their exes and taking accountability for their own past behaviors. They remind listeners that forgiveness isn?t about excusing others?it?s about freeing yourself.
Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or one of her Hybrid Group Coaching Programs. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating DecoderYoutube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:

·What is true forgiveness.

.The role forgiveness plays in our healing journeys. 

·The toxic patterns of unforgiveness. 

·The connection between chronic illness and unforgiveness.   

.How unforgiveness keeps us in a state of nervous system dysregulation. 

.The spiritual and psychological avenues to forgiveness. 
                                                                               
Consider/Ask Yourself:

·Am I holding onto resentment and bitterness within my relationship?

.How can I seek more forgiveness with those that have hurt me?

·Am I exhibiting toxic behaviors associated with unforgiveness? 

.What resources can I seek out both spiritually and psychologically as a way to work on forgiveness?


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-12-17
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Episode 30 | That's My Life Part II - The Rising of the Pheonix

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 30: That?s My Life Part II ? The Rising of the Phoenix

In this deeply moving episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley continues the intimate recounting of her life story, picking up from the tumultuous events shared in Episode 29. This chapter delves into the darkest period of her life, unveiling the profound struggles that ultimately paved the way for her transformation.

Dr. Hensley opens the episode by sharing the fallout of her first marriage, marked by her ex-husband?s battle with addiction and abusive behavior. Their relationship ended in a bitter custody battle, during which Dr. Hensley did everything in her power to help him rebuild his life for the sake of their children. However, his sudden marriage to another woman and his decision to redirect his life insurance policies to her left Sarah financially and emotionally shattered, raising their children on her own.

The spiral deepened with the tragic news of her ex-husband?s death?a revelation she learned only after others, including her dismissive-avoidant ex-boyfriend, who broke the news to her best friend Raina before Sarah even knew. Adding to her grief, her mother was battling pancreatic cancer, and Sarah was reeling from a breakup with the same boyfriend who continued to breadcrumb her during her most vulnerable moments.

At her lowest point, Dr. Hensley?s physical health began to deteriorate rapidly. She woke up one day with debilitating symptoms?her world a blur, everything spinning, and a sensation of walking on a trampoline. After months of misdiagnoses, she was finally diagnosed with vestibular migraines, a condition she was told she might have to live with forever. This was the breaking point where Dr. Hensley felt utterly hopeless, unable to work or care for her daughters.

Seeking answers, she turned to therapy, including EMDR and ART, but neither provided relief. She was left wondering why no one was connecting her physical condition to the immense emotional trauma she had endured. It wasn?t until she discovered Alan Gordon?s podcast Tell Me About Your Pain that she began to understand the link between emotional trauma and physical ailments. This discovery set her on a path of healing through faith, science, and self-compassion.

Dr. Hensley recounts how a close friend introduced her to Be In Health Ministries, where she began to experience profound spiritual healing, regaining 80% of her health. The remaining 20% came through her study of neuroplasticity and its relationship to pain, empowering her to rewrite her body?s story of trauma and reclaim her life.

In the final moments of the episode, Dr. Hensley shares the tools and practices that transformed her life and now form the cornerstone of her coaching and teachings. With a thriving business, a loving marriage, and a peaceful heart, Dr. Hensley?s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She closes with a message of hope, encouraging listeners that no matter how dire the circumstances, they too can rise from the ashes like a phoenix.

This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, and even in the face of overwhelming adversity, a brighter future awaits.
Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. 

PROMO CODE FOR OUR LISTNERS: Use LOVEDOC27 to receive 27% off any of Dr. Hensley's courses or one of her Hybrid Group Coaching Programs. 

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating DecoderYoutube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:

·The continuation of Dr. Hensley's story.

.The death of her ex-husband and what led to it.

·The story of her experience dating a dismissive avoidant.

·The break up story between her and the dismissive avoidant after her mother's cancer diagnoses.  

.The spiraling of her life that eventually led to her sickness. 

.The discovery of "Be in Health Ministries" and Alan Gordman's podcast "Tell Me About Your Pain" both of which led to her path of healing. 
                                                                               
Consider/Ask Yourself:

·How can Dr. Hensley's life story inspire me to seek healing?

.What resources can I utilize on my own healing journey?

·Am I stuck in a vicious cycle with a dismissive avoidant partner that is only adding to the turmoil of my life?

.How can I seek help and healing through Dr. Hensley's services so I too can rise from the ashes like a pheonix? 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-12-10
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Episode 29 | That's My Life

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

In episode 29 of The Love Doc Podcast titled ?That?s My Life,? Dr. Hensley takes listeners on an emotional journey through her life story. Beginning with her childhood, she candidly describes growing up with a bipolar father whose unpredictable moods created a home filled with anxiety and instability. She explores the dynamics between her parents, highlighting her mother?s unhappiness in the marriage, her Catholic faith that kept her from leaving, and the burdens she carried as the family?s financial provider.

Dr. Hensley reflects on how these experiences shaped her early romantic relationships, sharing the trauma of her first love and the patterns that led her to tolerate toxic behavior. She dives into the pivotal moments of meeting and marrying her first husband, recounting the red flags she overlooked, the abuse she endured, and the heartbreaking decisions she made in an attempt to salvage the marriage?including having children during fleeting moments of sobriety.

With raw honesty, Dr. Hensley shares painful details of domestic abuse, her ex-husband?s alcoholism, infidelity, and the events that ultimately led her to file for divorce. This deeply personal episode concludes with a teaser for part two, where she promises to share her inspiring journey of healing and resilience. Tune in if you?ve ever faced similar struggles and are ready to witness a story of rising from the ashes.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media.

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating DecoderYoutube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:

·Dr. Hensley's childhood and how it shaped her.

.Dr. Hensley's first romatic expereinces and how they shaped her.

·The story of how she met her first husband.

·The story of her abuse and her first husband's infidelity. 

.How she finally got the nerve to file for divorce.    
                                                                               
Consider/Ask Yourself:

·Can I relate to the type of childhood Dr. Hensley had?

.How have my own childhood experiences shaped my choices in romantic partners?

·Can I relate to Dr. Hensley's first marriage?

.If I can relate to Dr. Hensley's first marriage is it time for me to leave? 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-12-03
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Episode 28 | The Self-Aware Narcissist with Special Guest "The Nameless Narcissist"

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 28: The Self-Aware Narcissist with Special Guest The Nameless Narcissist

In this captivating episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley sits down with ?The Nameless Narcissist,? a self-aware content creator diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Through his TikTok content, he shares raw and insightful accounts of living with NPD, and Dr. Hensley reflects on how his perspective has deepened her understanding of the condition, especially its origins and impact on relationships.

The episode begins with The Nameless Narcissist recounting his journey to self-awareness, including his path to an NPD diagnosis after two years of therapy. He candidly discusses the challenge of being diagnosed due to the nature of NPD, where manipulation and deflection can mask the true symptoms.

Dr. Hensley then poses a compelling question: ?What?s the one thing you wish people knew about NPD?? His answer highlights the human side of narcissism?that beneath the harmful behaviors, people with NPD still seek connection, worth, and love. He explains that while experts often understand the behaviors, they sometimes miss the underlying motivations.

The conversation shifts to the role of control in narcissism. Dr. Hensley brings up a fascinating point from The Nameless Narcissist?s content?that control isn?t about achieving specific outcomes but proving one?s capability to control. This stems from a need for self-esteem regulation, a recurring theme in the discussion.

Dr. Hensley shares her personal experience with a narcissistic ex-partner who was a serial cheater. She theorizes his behavior stemmed from a need for constant external validation, which The Nameless Narcissist connects back to the ?grandiose highs? that regulate self-esteem.

The Nameless Narcissist also delves into his healing journey, including how exploring his caregivers? pain and trauma helped him release some of his childhood wounds. This insight into intergenerational trauma is a powerful reminder of the complexities behind NPD.

The episode touches on the rare self-awareness among those with NPD, with research suggesting only 1% reach this stage. However, The Nameless Narcissist argues the true number is likely higher, as many may feel too much shame to admit their struggles publicly.

Finally, the discussion turns to theories of narcissism?s origins. The Nameless Narcissist shares his perspective, describing grandiosity as a safety mechanism to counter deep feelings of unworthiness?a way to feel anything at all.

Dr. Hensley wraps up by thanking The Nameless Narcissist for his bravery and empathy, both for those with NPD and for those who?ve been hurt by narcissistic behavior. She encourages listeners to explore his content for further understanding of NPD and its complexities.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand narcissism through a lens of compassion, insight, and healing. Please go follow The Nameless Narcissit on all platforms @thenamelessnarcissist. 

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media.

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating DecoderYoutube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:

·Who is The Nameless Narcissit and what is his story.

.The one thing you want people to know about Narcissitic Personality Disorder (NPD).

· The role of control in narcissism.

·The theory behind why some narcissist are serial cheaters.

.The theories behind why only 1% of those with NPD become self-aware.       
                                                                               
Consider/Ask Yourself:

·Am I dealing with someone who has true NPD or someone who just has narcissitic traits?

.Do I possibly have NPD?

·What is some of the pain that those with NPD are experiencing? 

.Am I seeking understanding and forgiveness for the pain that I experienced from someone with NPD or am I holding onto resentment?

·How can I start to see more humanity in people who have diagnosed NPD?

.Do I or someone I know need to seek help and intervention for NPD and/or narcisstic traits?  

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-11-26
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Episode 27 | The Anxious Pre-Occupied

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting.

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 27 "The Anxious Pre-Occupied." In this insightful episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley delves into the intricate world of the anxious preoccupied (AP) attachment style, which she refers to as the ?least common? attachment style she encounters in her practice. While many clients initially come to her thinking that they are AP, Dr. Hensley explains that they often turn out to be fearful avoidant (FA), but think they are AP becuase thier anxiety is heightened due to a dismissive partner. She begins by distinguishing the anxious preoccupied from the fearful avoidant attachment, emphasizing how their formation and behaviors differ.

Dr. Hensley provides a thorough explanation of the key factor behind the development of AP attachment: intermittent reinforcement. She describes how AP individuals often experienced inconsistent love and affection from one or both caregivers during childhood. This unpredictability created anxiety and a deep-seated fear of not knowing when they would receive the love they craved.

How AP Behaviors Show Up in Relationships

Dr. Hensley explains that anxious preoccupied behaviors in adulthood often stem from early coping mechanisms, including a fawning response. As children, they learned to please their caregivers to gain more consistent love and affection, which translates into adult tendencies of people-pleasing. During conflict, AP individuals often sacrifice their boundaries to maintain harmony and emotional safety, leaving them feeling as though their own needs are never met.

A central wound of the AP is the fear of abandonment. Dr. Hensley shares how this manifests as a need to keep peace at all costs, leading AP individuals to apologize even when they don?t know what they?re apologizing for. The toxic trait of codependency frequently appears in their relationships, with APs adopting the belief that ?if you?re not okay, I?m not okay.? This fear of abandonment drives them to prioritize their partner?s emotional state over their own, further entrenching unhealthy dynamics.

Interestingly, Dr. Hensley notes that APs may sometimes appear dismissive or detached during conflict. However, this is not disassociation but rather a strategy to remain emotionally ?safe? by staying silent. Internally, their nervous system is overwhelmed by intense emotions, but they struggle to release or process them.

Steps Toward Healing

Midway through the episode, Dr. Hensley shifts focus to practical strategies for AP individuals to heal and regain balance in their relationships. She emphasizes two foundational tools:
1. Setting and Maintaining Boundaries
AP individuals must learn to set clear, firm boundaries and resist the urge to self-abandon to please others.
2. Improving Communication
Dr. Hensley highlights the importance of speaking up and addressing dissatisfaction directly instead of resorting to passive-aggressive behaviors, which stem from their fear of abandonment.

By recognizing these patterns and intentionally shifting their behaviors, APs can move away from toxic submissiveness and toward healthier relational dynamics.

Why AP Is the Least Seen Attachment Style

As the episode nears its conclusion, Dr. Hensley shares why the anxious preoccupied is the least common attachment style in her practice. She attributes this to the AP?s deep-seated pride and belief that they can ?fix? themselves and their relationships without outside help. AP individuals often tie their self-worth to the success of their relationships, perpetuating a cycle of self-reliance and resistance to professional support.

Listener Q&A: Can Attachment Styles Shift?

Dr. Hensley wraps up by answering a common question about attachment: Can someone shift from being AP to FA or DA? She clarifies that while all attachment styles share overlapping traits, it?s rare for a person to completely shift styles, except when progressing toward secure attachment. The core wounds of attachment are formed in childhood and cannot be undone, but healing is always possible.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with AP tendencies or seeking to understand the nuances of attachment in relationships. Dr. Hensley?s compassionate approach and actionable advice make this an empowering resource for personal growth.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media.

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating DecoderYoutube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:

·The behaviors of the Anxious Pre-Occupied.       

.Intermittent Reinforcement as a key factor in the formulation of Anxious Pre-Occupied attachment style.

· How AP's show up in relationships.

·Steps towards healing Anxious Pre-Occupied Attachment.   

.Why the Anxious Pre-Occupied is the least seen attachment style in Dr. Hensley's practice.       
                                                                               
Consider/Ask Yourself:

·Do you think that you are Anxious Pre-Occupied when you may actually be Fearful Avoidant?

·Did you grow up with a fairly good childhood but feel like you got inconsistent love and affection from one or both of your caregivers?

.Are you self abadoning inside of your relationship?

·How can you start setting healthy boundries within your relationship and how can you start to stick to them?

.How can I learn to express my needs and wants within my relationship in a healthy and compassionate way?

.Do I need to seek help and intervention for my AP attachment style? 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-11-19
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Episode 26 | Radical Acceptance

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting.

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

In episode 26, titled Radical Acceptance, Dr. Hensley delves into the powerful concept of radical acceptance and its impact on emotional well-being. She opens by defining radical acceptance as the practice of embracing reality without self-judgment, especially when it?s challenging. Dr. Hensley explains how shame can disrupt our nervous system, often fueling a sense of failure that persists despite outward success. Sharing her personal journey, she reflects on moments of feeling inadequate, even while balancing a thriving career and family life, describing times she felt she ?dropped the ball? as a parent and business owner.

Drawing on insights from nervous system expert Dana Doswell from episode 19, Dr. Hensley underscores that how we approach our tasks, with grace and acceptance, is often more important than what we do. This foundation, she explains, is central to radical acceptance, where the practice becomes a conscious effort to recognize that one?s efforts are ?enough,? even amid mistakes.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Hensley and Raina share real-life stories, touching on childhood experiences of shame. They highlight how fostering radical acceptance in children?around mistakes and natural bodily changes?helps build resilience. Dr. Hensley then explores why radical acceptance is particularly difficult for overachievers and perfectionists. These individuals often link their self-worth to being ?the best,? struggling to relinquish control and falling into self-criticism when they cannot accomplish it all.

In a candid segment, Dr. Hensley and Raina discuss their own experiences grappling with radical acceptance of past relationships, particularly with their children?s fathers. Raina opens up about working through sexual shame from a past abusive relationship, acknowledging the growth in her journey to accept herself fully. Dr. Hensley explains that radical acceptance also means facing painful realities without minimizing their impact. It involves acknowledging trauma and choosing healing over victimhood, with radical acceptance serving as the foundation for this journey.

Finally, Dr. Hensley emphasizes the importance of accountability in relationships as a form of radical acceptance. Owning one?s mistakes and apologizing fosters authenticity and vulnerability, she explains, strengthening connections and creating a regulated nervous system. This journey of accountability and repair exemplifies radical acceptance as an honest acknowledgment of human fallibility?embracing, learning, and growing from each experience.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media.

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:     

*What is radical acceptance.     

*How Dana Doswell, nervous system regulation expert, describes radical acceptance.

*The importance of fostering radical acceptance in our children.

*Why radical acceptance is so difficult for overachievers and perfectionist.

*Radical acceptance of past selves .       

*Radical accountabilty equals radical acceptance. 

Consider/Ask Yourself:

*Are you beating yourself up too often over things that are outside of your control?

*Are you able to recognize when you are not practicing acceptance and how it affects your nervous system?       

*Are you an overachiever and perfectionist to the point where you are unable to reliquish control and properly delegate task?

*How can I practice radical acceptance of my past self?
 
*Can I start to take more radical accountability and radical acceptance inside of my romantic relationship? 


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-11-12
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Episode 25 | It's a Capacity Issue

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting.

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

In episode 25: ?It?s a Capacity Issue,? Dr. Hensley takes listeners on an in-depth journey into the concept of building capacity, emphasizing that true change and healing require more than just awareness and understanding. She explains that building capacity is about bridging the gap between intellectual understanding and actionable change, which requires specific mediators between the pathways of knowledge and behavior.

Dr. Hensley begins by discussing the psychoeducation she provides in her group coaching programs to help participants develop this capacity. She underscores that awareness alone doesn?t create transformation; instead, certain mental and emotional tools are essential to support lasting change. One of the first components she covers is self-regulation, which she describes as the ability to bring the nervous system to a place of safety. This can be challenging, she notes, particularly for those carrying attachment wounds from childhood, which shape their responses in adulthood.

Using the dismissive avoidant (DA) attachment style as a key example, Dr. Hensley delves into how attachment wounds are formed and how those with DA tendencies can build capacity for change. She discusses how early experiences of suppression and dismissal impact the DA?s brain, leading them to default to a freeze response during conflict. This response reflects the limits of their nervous system?s capacity at that moment, which, though protective, often cuts off connection to their partner.

At the midpoint of the episode, Dr. Hensley introduces the tools she provides in her hybrid group coaching program, highlighting metacognition as a crucial skill. She teaches clients to recognize and dismantle their trigger cycles, tracing the journey from trigger to trauma response. By giving the nervous system new, healthier experiences, clients can begin to build new neural pathways that reinforce these changes, helping them gradually shift their patterns.

Dr. Hensley explains the science of neuroplasticity, emphasizing that everyone has the power to rewire their brains and reshape their behavior. However, she reminds listeners that the journey from awareness to actual change requires specific guidance and support.

In the episode?s conclusion, Dr. Hensley explores the concept of radical self-acceptance. She encourages listeners to meet themselves where they are to start creating a sense of safety within their nervous system, which is foundational to building capacity. She also shares more about her coaching services, explaining how each program can support individuals or couples in their journey of growth, healing, and connection.

Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media.

Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/

Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout

Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder

Instagram: @the_dating_decoder

Facebook: The Dating Decoder

Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

What is covered:

. What it means to build capacity.

·The difference in having awareness and knowledge versus true integration of changed behavior. 

·The psychoeducation taught in Dr. Hensley's group services.

·Self regulation and what it means.

.The example of the Dismissive Avoidant and how they can start to build capacity.       

.Metacognition and what it means.                                                                             

Consider/Ask Yourself:

· Is your nervous system ready to start building capacity?

 . Have you had time to process your wounds, build awarness and knowlege around them so that you can start to change the behavior associated with them?

. Are you practicing self regulation practices when triggered?

. How can I start recognizing my triggers and the trauma responses associated with them?

. How can I start attuning to my basic human needs and practicing radical self acceptance so that my nervous system can feel safe and I can start building better capcity for change?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-11-05
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Episode 24 | Unoffendable

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. In Episode 24: ?Unoffendable? of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley dives deep into a candid exploration of our modern, easily-offended culture and the toll it takes on our nervous systems and resilience. She reflects on how people today are quick to take offense at differing opinions, which often disrupts our emotional balance and has created a deeply divided society. While Dr. Hensley emphasizes that true atrocities?such as murder, sexual abuse, and human trafficking?should rightfully offend us all, she raises concerns about the rise in offense over differences in thought and belief. This, she argues, is eroding respect and open-mindedness in society.

Dr. Hensley introduces the importance of emotional resilience versus emotional suppression. She?s clear: she is not advocating for suppressing emotions but promoting emotional resilience. This means developing the capacity to accept others? views, even when they differ from our own, without offense or alienation. She encourages introspection, urging listeners to question why certain things offend them. Offense, she explains, arises when we feel triggered or violated, highlighting the need for self-understanding as a way to manage these responses.

In a thought-provoking segment, Dr. Hensley explains Terror Management Theory, which suggests that when our values or identity feel threatened, it subconsciously evokes fear of mortality, making us feel defensive and offended. Her aim is to help listeners understand that choosing offense can narrow our minds and breed hate, especially in the age of online exchanges where it?s easy to react harshly from behind a screen.

Midway through the episode, Dr. Hensley emphasizes that these principles are vital in our closest relationships?particularly with partners, family, and friends. Constant offense, she warns, can rob us of joy and precious time. Instead, she encourages a spirit of curiosity, asking listeners to lean into understanding rather than immediate judgment. By challenging not just others? thoughts but our own, we can foster genuine connection and potentially gain new insights.

As Dr. Hensley wraps up Episode 24: ?Unoffendable?, she drives home the importance of looking inward. She advocates for listeners to pause and reflect on why certain things offend them, encouraging them to get curious about others? points of view rather than reacting. By exploring differing perspectives, she suggests, we can gain valuable insight into our own beliefs and responses. Her hope is that this practice can foster greater empathy and understanding, ultimately helping to bridge divides and bring us closer together in a more united world. This episode serves as both a challenge and a reminder from Dr. Hensley to practice resilience, self-reflection, and compassion in a world quick to divide. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·       The spirit of offense in today's culture.  ·       The toll that being easily offended takes on the nervous system.  ·       The importance of creating grit and curiosity in our children so that can be open minded to others points of view.  ·       What happens when we become offended.  .       Terror Management Theory. What is it and how does it apply to offensiveness.  .        The importance of gaining control and clarity around our offensivness within our most imtimate relationships.                                                                                 Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Are you becoming too easily offended? ·       Are you able to recognize when you are offended and how it affects your day to day life? ·       How can I create more grit and curiosity within myself in order to teach my children the same practices? .        How am I allowing offensivness to affect my most important relationships, and in turn how is it affecting my body and mind? .       How can I gain more insight around why certain things offend me?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-10-29
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Episode 23 | Raising Secure Children

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 23 ?Raising Secure Children,? Dr. Hensley delves into how attachment theory is not just relevant to romantic relationships but also plays a critical role in parenting. She explains that our attachment styles directly affect our children?s attachment styles, which can shape how they choose romantic partners in the future. Dr. Hensley emphasizes that achieving your own attachment security is essential for raising secure children. The episode begins with Dr. Hensley reflecting on what she would have done differently as a parent, starting with the importance of choosing the right partner. She highlights that secure individuals tend to attract secure partners, while insecure individuals often attract others with insecure attachment styles. Dr. Hensley notes that this choice of partner not only influences attachment but also affects overall life happiness and success. Raina shares a personal story about how triggers from a past relationship impacted her parenting recently. She discusses a situation where her unresolved emotional pain affected her interaction with her son. Raina describes the guilt she felt but focuses on the repair process, where she admitted her mistake to her son and explained that she is still working through her own challenges. Dr. Hensley stresses that mistakes in parenting are inevitable, but secure parenting lies in how we repair those mistakes?similar to how conflicts are resolved in romantic relationships. Dr. Hensley goes on to explain that our nervous systems remember trauma, which is why repairing emotional rifts with children is crucial. Children constantly seek emotional safety from their caregivers, so it?s important to show them that parents are human while ensuring that they don?t remain dysregulated or uncertain about the stability of the relationship. Dr. Hensley emphasizes the importance of teaching children how to regulate their emotions and modeling accountability when parents make mistakes. She also discusses parenting tactics she would avoid, starting with the ?cry-it-out? method. Dr. Hensley admits she used this method with her first child but now challenges the approach, arguing that it can negatively impact a child?s nervous system and attachment security. She critiques sleep training specialists who promote this tactic, citing the scientific connection between crying it out and attachment insecurity. Another parenting pitfall Dr. Hensley would avoid is dismissing or punishing a child?s emotions. She explains that phrases like ?You?re fine? or ?Get over it? can invalidate a child?s feelings and hinder their emotional development. Instead, she recommends guiding children through the process of understanding and labeling their emotions, which aids in emotional regulation and prevents suppressing feelings, which can lead to avoidant attachment. Dr. Hensley provides a real-life example of how she helps her daughter process big emotions, emphasizing the importance of validating a child?s experiences. As the episode progresses, Dr. Hensley talks about teaching children how to feel and energetically move their emotions through their bodies. This practice, she says, is key to mood regulation, physiological health, and helping children develop a deeper awareness of their bodies. She also underscores the value of teaching children to set boundaries confidently so they grow up knowing how to prioritize their own needs and desires, rather than becoming people-pleasers. The episode wraps up with a discussion about the importance of teaching accountability. Dr. Hensley encourages parents to show children how to apologize sincerely, without shifting blame or including excuses. Raina and Dr. Hensley conclude by reiterating the significance of parents working on their own attachment security to model healthy, secure behavior for their children. They emphasize that it?s never too late to start teaching children what secure attachment looks like and how to nurture it. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·       How attachment plays a role in how we parent our children. ·       The importance of choosing the correct partner to have or raise children with. ·       The importance of how we repair emotional situations with our children ·       The importance of teaching children emotional regulation.  .       Things Dr. Hensley would have done different or would never do on her quest to raising secure children.  .        The importance of reaching your own attachment security in order to raise secure children.                                                                                       Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Are you allowing your own attachment wounds to influence how you parent your children? ·       Is your relationship with your current or ex partner influencing how you parent your children? ·       How can I start attuning to my children's emotional needs better? .        Am I dismissing or even punishing my children's emotions at times? .        Am I teaching my children how to set appropriate boundries and how to take accountability? 

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2024-10-22
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Episode 22 | Our Walks with God

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 22 ? ?Our Walks with God? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Hensley and Raina take a deep dive into their personal faith journeys and how they became the strong Christian women they are today. They start by addressing the backlash they?ve received for speaking openly about their faith in previous episodes and dedicate this entire episode to explaining why their faith is so important. Right from the beginning, they provide a disclaimer, encouraging listeners who may not be interested in the topic to skip this episode without judgment. However, they also invite anyone who is curious about how people, including them, develop such strong faith to stay and listen. Dr. Hensley draws powerful connections between psychology and spirituality, highlighting how many psychological principles have roots in the Bible. She shares her belief that God speaks to us through our thoughts and that while He doesn?t interfere with free will, He gives us the chance every day to align with Him or with opposing forces. The episode then shifts to their personal stories, with both women reflecting on their upbringings. They also openly admit that their faith hasn?t always been easy. They discuss their past struggles, often questioning God?s existence, and wondering why bad things happen to good people. Dr. Hensley offers a candid, human perspective on these questions. Midway through, Dr. Hensley shares a transformative experience from a ?Be in Health? retreat where she underwent deliverance. Initially skeptical and fearful, she describes how deliverance healed her from pain and debilitating vestibular migraines, leaving her feeling like a new person. This experience also deepened her understanding of the connection between spirituality, physiology, and psychology. To wrap up, Dr. Hensley delves into how her healing experience led her to explore the psychology of healing, uncovering profound parallels between the two disciplines. She emphasizes her practice?s inclusivity, where clients are welcome to choose between Christian or secular approaches to coaching, stressing the importance of acceptance and respect for all faiths. This episode is a vulnerable and insightful look into the personal walks of faith that have shaped these two women?s lives and their work. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        How each host experienced religion and spirtuality growing up. ·       Emphasized acceptance if you prefer to not listen to this episode. ·       The parallels between spirtuality and psychology. ·       Each host personal story of how and when their fiath shifted.    .       Deliverance and how Dr. Hensley personally experienced it through "Be In Health" a personal retreat that she attended that healed her pain and changed her life. .        The importance of acceptance and how Dr. Hensley practices both a secular and spirtual coaching strategy for her clients. She allows the client to choose which they prefer.                                                                                      Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Are you allowing your personal upbrining around faith to interfere with your relationship with God.  ·       Even if you aren't a Christian, is this episode worth listening to in order to explore a deeper understanding around faith? ·       How can I start seeing the similarites in psychology and spirtuality, and how can I combine the two to make my relationships stronger? .        Am I afraid to be on fire about my faith for fear of turning people away? .        Regardless of my faith perspective, could Dr. Hensley's coaching strategies be right for me? 

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2024-10-15
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Episode 21 | Pop Psychology is Not Psychology

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 21: "Pop Psychology is Not Psychology." In this episode, Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher break down several misconceptions and misuses of psychological concepts that are often spread through social media and pop culture. ?Not everyone you dislike is a narcissist.? Dr. Hensley explains how narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is difficult to diagnose and measure, primarily because individuals with NPD are often manipulative and lack self-awareness. NPD exists on a spectrum, and while some people may show narcissistic traits, it doesn?t necessarily mean they have NPD. She encourages listeners to revisit episode 10, ?Are They a Narcissist?? to learn the differences between narcissistic traits and attachment insecurities. ?Not every unpleasant experience is trauma.? Trauma is highly nuanced and specific to each individual?s perception and experience. Labeling every unpleasant event as trauma can actually undermine one?s nervous system and create a victim mentality. Dr. Hensley and Raina discuss how their generation has raised children with an aversion to all discomfort, resulting in a generation with poor coping skills. Dr. Hensley advocates for attachment-based parenting and shares tools she used with her own children, emphasizing the importance of teaching regulation as a foundation for resilience. ?Having needs does not make you co-dependent.? Dr. Hensley breaks down the difference between expressing needs and being co-dependent. Raina shares a personal story about her son and his young relationship, illustrating that stating your needs doesn?t make you a bad partner?sacrificing them to keep the peace, however, may indicate co-dependency.  ?Disagreeing does not mean someone is gaslighting you.? Disagreements are a normal part of communication, and differing perspectives don?t necessarily equate to gaslighting. Dr. Hensley explains that people view reality through their own lenses, shaped by experiences and upbringing. Just because someone has a different opinion doesn?t mean they are trying to manipulate you; they may simply be trying to convey their reality.  ?Not all conflict is abuse.? The hosts tackle the misconception that any form of conflict is abusive. Dr. Hensley highlights that voice inflation is a normal part of heated discussions and does not equate to abuse. She shares her own boundaries around conflict in her marriage, such as not tolerating yelling, cursing, physical aggression, or threatening divorce. Through her personal experiences, Dr. Hensley gives listeners a clearer picture of what abuse actually looks like.  ?Taking offense is not being triggered.? Being unoffendable is a key skill for regulating attachment insecurities. Dr. Hensley explains that being offended by someone?s words on social media doesn?t mean you?re being triggered. Understanding what a true trigger is?something that activates deep-seated trauma or unresolved issues?is crucial for emotional regulation.  ?Everything does not need to be normalized.? ?Normal as in common does not always mean normal as in healthy,? Dr. Hensley states. The hosts discuss the societal push to ?normalize? things that may not be healthy, sometimes confusing social acceptance with psychological wellness. Dr. Hensley emphasizes that some behaviors we try to normalize might be indicative of mental illness.  ?Speaking like an HR memo is not self-awareness.? Dr. Hensley shares a personal anecdote about falling into ?teacher mode? in her own marriage and how her husband has to call her on it. She then realizes that it creates distance rather than connection. Speaking in an authoritative or clinical tone, even with good intentions, can come across as detached and lack vulnerability.                                                    Dr. Hensley wraps up by advising listeners to seek professionals who are well-versed in real psychological principles. She warns against the proliferation of self-proclaimed experts on the internet and encourages her audience to research credentials and ensure they?re working with someone who has the proper education and expertise. Tune in to this episode for a thought-provoking discussion on the difference between genuine psychological understanding and the oversimplified ?pop psychology? narratives that dominate social media.                                                                                                                                                            Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        What is pop psychology. ·       Not everyone you dislike is a narcissit.  ·       Not every unpleasant experience is trauma. ·       Having needs does not make you co-dependent. ·       Disagreeing does not mean someone is gaslighting you.    .       Not all conflict is abuse                                                                                                                                                                                                                               .     Taking offense is not being triggered.                                                                                                                                                                                                           .     Everything does not need to be normalized.                                                                                                                                                                                               .     Speaking like an HR memo is not self-awareness.                                                                                                                                                                                       .     The importance of finding trained and educated professionals in the field of psychology that can help you on your healing journey.  Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Are you allowing pop psychology to influence your feelings? ·       How is social media influencing your ideas and knowledge around mental health?  ·       How can you take each of the topics discussed in this episode and digest them to ensure you are not allowing pop psychology to influence the way you feel and act?   .        Are you seeking out credible resources and doing your due diligence when it comes to finding the correct mental health professional?

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2024-10-08
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Episode 20 | Taking Back Your Personal Power

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 20: "Taking Back Your Personal Power." In this compelling episode, Dr. Hensley dives deep into the concept of personal power, highlighting that no one can truly "take" our power; instead, we often surrender it, many times without realizing we?re doing so. Dr. Hensley explains that certain relationship dynamics, especially those involving a narcissist or a dismissive avoidant, are more prone to creating a sense of lost power for one partner. Dr. Hensley gives an example used by a fellow influencer, called "The Namless Narcissit" Narcissists, how he explains that narcissiste don?t try to control to achieve specific outcomes but rather as a way to prove to themselves that they can. This creates a dictatorial dynamic where the partner being dictated to often feels powerless and trapped. Dr. Hensley shares a vulnerable moment from her own life, discussing a recent experience where she found herself feeling desperate to regain her own sense of power. Admitting to returning to therapy, she explores the ruminating thoughts and the reasons behind her perceived loss of power. She emphasizes the importance of finding a good therapist?one who doesn?t reinforce victimhood but instead helps clients understand that surrendering power is ultimately a choice. Therapists should challenge clients to take ownership of their decisions and help them reclaim their autonomy. Dr. Hensley then explores how different attachment styles manifest in relation to personal power. She notes that dismissive avoidants are typically the ones dictating the tone of the relationship and rarely visibly surrender their power. In contrast, anxious attachment styles, such as anxious preoccupied and fearful avoidant who lean anxious, are more likely to give up their personal power, leading to increased anxiety and emotional turmoil. As the episode progresses, Dr. Hensley discusses what a healthy balance of power looks like in relationships. She outlines three key components of balanced power: (1) both partners taking personal accountability for their behaviors, (2) avoiding blame-shifting, and (3) not getting trapped in rumination or self-pity. Furthermore, maintaining a balance of power includes equitable distribution of daily responsibilities and the ability to pick up slack without building resentment. When both partners can approach these behaviors with mutual respect, grace, and humility, the power dynamics within the relationship remain balanced, fostering a healthy and thriving partnership. To wrap up, both Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher share personal anecdotes about reclaiming their power and using failed relationships as opportunities for growth. They emphasize that taking back one?s power means being secure in who you are and setting boundaries that limit access to oneself to only those who are willing to reciprocate honor, love, and respect. Ultimately, reclaiming personal power is about stepping into your authentic self and reinforcing your self-worth in every relationship dynamic. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        The difference in someone taking your personal power and surrendering it.  ·       The most prevelant relationship dynamic where one partner feels a loss of personal power.  ·       The importance of therapy, specifically good therapy, where the therapist does not reinforce victimhood, but instead helps you understand that surrendering personal power is a choice.  .       How the different attachment styles surrender thier personal power.  .        What a healthy balance of power looks like in relationships.  .         Real life examples from both host on how they reclaimed thier personal power after failed relationships.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       Are you choosing to surrender your personal power?  ·       How are you losing your personal power based on your attachment style? .       In what ways are you and your partner balancing power dynamics in your relationship?  ·       Is staying in a state of victimhood stripping you of your personal power? .       How can  you reclaim your personal power and once and for all become securely attached?  

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2024-10-01
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Episode 19 | Nervous System Regulation with Expert Guest Dana Doswell

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 19: "Nervous System Regulation with expert guest Dana Doswell." In this powerful episode, Dr. Hensley welcomes special guest Dana Doswell, a nervous system expert and mentor. Dr. Hensley begins by sharing how much she?s learned from Dana?s expertise in nervous system regulation, expressing deep gratitude for the transformative knowledge that has not only enhanced her personal life but also strengthened her professional practice. Dana takes us back to the beginning of her journey, explaining how she first became aware of her own low-level nervous system dysregulation. Like many high-functioning, successful individuals, Dana describes how she went through life ignoring the signals her body was sending her?until a complete nervous system collapse forced her to seek help. She candidly discusses how traditional talk therapy only provided short-term relief, leading her to explore deeper interventions. Her search led her to discover polyvagal theory, which became a turning point in her healing journey. Dana delves into how she realized the disorganization of her nervous system and how somatic work?integrating the body into the healing process?became essential. This discovery ignited her passion for studying evolution, psychology, neuroscience, and somatic healing, which she applied directly to her own life with profound results. Dr. Hensley then shares her parallel journey, explaining how her personal experiences similarly inspired her to dive into spiritual, somatic, and nervous system healing, eventually shaping her work to help others heal. Dana highlights one of the most profound lessons she learned in her studies: the impact of shame on the nervous system. She discusses in detail how shame, particularly within the context of religion and basic bodily functions, deeply affects our bodies and behavior. Dana emphasizes the need to acknowledge our basic physiological needs and accept our "animalistic" nature, a fundamental step in healing an overtaxed nervous system that?s often overlooked. She further explores the concept of "functional freeze," a state many high-functioning people find themselves in. Because high performers often attach their self-worth to their productivity and intelligence, they struggle with feelings of failure when they try to rest, triggering nervous system dysregulation. The conversation then turns to the topic of retraumatization and the role that rumination plays in nervous system imbalance. Dana provides practical, step-by-step guidance on how to address rumination from a somatic perspective, offering techniques to locate and resource the feelings in different parts of the body. Dana concludes by sharing that the best way to understand and regulate your nervous system is through relationships?whether that?s with a partner, yourself, or even objects in your environment. She explains how every relationship has a "flavor," and that flavor influences how your nervous system responds. Dr. Hensley wraps up the episode by highlighting that the key to nervous system regulation is to deshame your experiences. Both women express their gratitude for the conversation, and Dr. Hensley shares ways for listeners to connect with Dana on social media. This episode is rich in insights on nervous system health, offering valuable tools for both personal and relational healing. You can find Dana Doswell, Nervous System Regulation Expert & Mentor on social media @danadozzyy or see all her services at www.danadozzy.com. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        Dana's background and how she became an expert and mentor with nervous system regulation.  ·       How her learnings of somatic healing and the polyvagal theory played a big role in her own nervous system healing journey. ·       The role that shame plays on nervous system deregulation.  .       How high functioning, successful people sometimes end up in functional freeze and nervous system collapse.  .        Why and how rumination is such a large component of nervous system deregulation and how to deal with it.  .         The impact that realtionships with everything around you have on the nervous system.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       Are you acknowledging and meeting your basic physiological needs like when you have to use the bathroom, or when you are thirsty or hungry? ·       How are you allowing shame into your life in turn disregulating your nervous system? .       Are you experiencing some level of functional freeze? ·       What flavor are you giving to the relationships to the people and things around you?  .       How can I seek help and safety to heal my nervous system once and for all?  

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2024-09-24
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Episode 18 | How to Handle the Haters

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 18: "How to Handle the Haters." Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher respond to their first negative podcast review. The criticism accused them of only discussing heterosexual relationships and being overly focused on their Christian faith. Dr. Hensley addresses this by clarifying that attachment theory is a universal framework, unaffected by gender or sexual orientation. Whether in same-sex or opposite-sex relationships, attachment behaviors remain consistent. Though both women have shared their own experiences as heterosexuals, they emphasize their inclusivity of all genders and sexual orientations. Raina also humorously addresses a claim in the review regarding her husband?s influence over her reproductive choices, setting the record straight that such decisions are entirely her own. Both hosts laughed at the assumption and used the moment to assert their independence. The episode then tackles the criticism about the role of Christianity in their podcast. Dr. Hensley acknowledges her faith but explains that she provides both spiritual and secular approaches in her coaching, respecting the beliefs of her clients. She asserts that while her faith is part of her identity, it doesn?t dictate her coaching unless requested by the client. The conversation then shifts toward how to handle negative comments or "haters" in general. Dr. Hensley ties this to attachment security, highlighting the importance of not internalizing others' judgments. She shares personal stories of dealing with criticism and emphasizes the power of showing up authentically. She explains that secure attachment allows people to accept rejection without it affecting their self-worth, and that curiosity toward others' negative behavior can often reveal their own insecurities and pain. The episode concludes with Dr. Hensley?s advice: Don?t let the haters dictate your emotional state, and choose joy despite negativity. By embracing secure attachment, listeners can free themselves from being offended by the ignorance and hate of others.  Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        The negative review and how it affected both Raina and Dr. Hensley. ·       Setting the record straight on the comments in the negative review.  ·       How attachment insecurites are not gender specific, nor sexual orientation specific.  .       How Dr. Hensley approaches her Chritian perspective within her practice.  .        The importance on achieving your attachment security when dealing with haters and/or offensiveness.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       How are you allowing others to dictate your joy based on what they may say or think about you? ·       How often are you allowing people who may differ from you to offend you? .       How can you lean into people with more curiosity versus reactivity?  ·       Are you allowing someones narrative of you to ruminate in your own thoughts?  .       Do I need Dr. Hensley and her resources to achieve my attachment security?  

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2024-09-17
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Episode 17 | Post Separation Abuse

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 17: "Post Separation Abuse." In this deeply personal and raw episode, Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher delve into the harrowing reality of post-separation abuse, particularly when children are involved. They shed light on the abuse that often continues long after separation or divorce, manifesting in ways that are often overlooked or misunderstood by the justice system. Dr. Hensley and Raina draw from their own experiences, providing a candid discussion on how the justice system failed them in the aftermath of their separations from their children?s fathers. They recount how the courts, lacking proper professionals equipped to handle the emotional complexities of post-separation dynamics, tend to revictimize families. The episode explores the challenges surrounding child custody, time-sharing, and financial arrangements, revealing how the system frequently falls short of protecting those most vulnerable?especially the children. Challenging common misconceptions, Dr. Hensley debunks the notion that post-separation abuse is solely a male-to-female phenomenon. She highlights cases where women are the abusers post-separation, suggesting that in these instances, they may have been the abusers during the relationship as well. This perspective invites listeners to rethink the narratives often presented in cases of domestic and post-separation abuse. The discussion then turns to reactive abuse, where Dr. Hensley explains how extreme stress and provocation can drive individuals to act violently, often in ways that are completely out of character. This phenomenon, she argues, is a critical aspect of understanding the dynamics of abusive relationships and the fallout that can occur even after separation. The impact of post-separation abuse on children is a central theme in the episode. Dr. Hensley emphasizes the long-term effects on children who are used as pawns in their parents' conflicts, which can lead to significant emotional and psychological problems as they grow up. She explores the psychology of abusers, who often manipulate reality to the point of believing their own lies, perpetuating a cycle of abuse that can have devastating consequences for their children. Dr. Hensley also distinguishes between attachment issues and personality disorders, such as narcissism, explaining how the latter can make co-parenting nearly impossible. She argues that the court system is often ill-equipped to recognize these psychological nuances, leading to decisions that may not be in the best interest of the children. The episode underscores the need for professionals trained in psychology, rather than solely relying on legal experts, to make informed decisions in family court cases. As the episode draws to a close, Dr. Hensley and Raina discuss the deep injustices within the family court system, particularly the ease with which false allegations can be weaponized to alienate and control. Raina shares her own painful experience of being falsely accused, detailing the profound impact it had on her and her young son.  In the final segment, Dr. Hensley advocates for systemic change, calling for the inclusion of doctorate-level professionals, skilled in psychological assessment, in family court proceedings. The episode concludes with a powerful message: the ultimate goal must be to protect the children, ensuring that they are not collateral damage in the ongoing battles between their parents. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of post-separation, offering crucial insights into the emotional and psychological challenges that persist long after the end of a relationship. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        What is post separation abuse. ·       How the justice system fails certian people who are dealing with post separation abuse.  ·       Post seperation abuse is not soley a male to female phenomenon.  .       The difference in abuse and reactive abuse.  ·       The impact of post serparation abuse on children. .        Dr. Hensley's opinion on how to change the leagal system to properly advocate for the victims of abuse and post separtation abuse.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       Are you dealing with post separation abuse? ·       Are you someone who has used your children as a pawn in the family court system? .       How can you start becoming a better co-parent for the sake of your child or children? ·       Are you seeking the proper resources to deal with your post seperation abuse?   .       How can Dr. Hensley help you in your post separation abuse journey? 

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2024-09-10
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Episode 16 | What it Looks and Feels Like to be Securely Attached

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 16: "What It Looks and Feels Like to Be Securely Attached." In this insightful episode, Dr. Hensley explores the profound transformation that occurs once you achieve secure attachment. She begins by discussing the inner peace and resilience that come with attachment security, providing listeners with a glimpse into the deep sense of emotional stability that emerges. Drawing from the core components of her hybrid group coaching program, Dr. Hensley offers a clear roadmap to secure attachment. The episode starts with an in-depth discussion on nervous system regulation, highlighting its pivotal role in achieving secure attachment. Dr. Hensley then reveals a powerful, often closely-guarded secret: meta-cognition. She explains how gaining conscious control over your thought patterns enables you to retrain your brain and provide your nervous system with new experiences of love, safety, and connection. Dr. Hensley also covers crucial concepts such as cognitive distortions and catastrophic thinking, noting that many of her clients discover how their thoughts are predominantly negative, creating feelings of insecurity within their relationships. She emphasizes that mastering these skills begins with everyday self-talk. Only by practicing these techniques daily can you successfully apply them in moments of emotional trigger, especially within romantic relationships. A key takeaway from the episode is Dr. Hensley?s "The Two Question Test" for challenging your thoughts: "Is this thought true?" and "Is this thought productive?" She encourages listeners to reframe any thought that doesn?t pass this test. As the episode progresses, Dr. Hensley dives into the powerful emotions of shame and rejection, explaining how they keep us trapped in a dysregulated state. She reveals that shame is a major barrier to secure attachment, often fueling feelings of unworthiness and blocking emotional growth. In closing, Dr. Hensley outlines practical ways to begin regulating the nervous system and releasing the burden of shame. She explains the scientific basis for achieving attachment security, underscoring its importance not just for mental health, but for overall psychological amd physical  well-being. She wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to build their capacity for secure behaviors, which she explores in greater depth in her course and hybrid group coaching program.  Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        What does Secure Attachment feel like. ·       The two biggest components in secure attachment: nervous system regulation and meta-cognition.   ·       How negative thinking keeps you stuck in attachment insecurities.  ·       The role that shame plays in nervous system disregulation.  ·       In depth tools and ideas around how to regulate your nervous system and start achieving attachment security.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       What does your inner voice sound like? ·       Are you able to consciously capture your thoughts?  .       What are some childhood wounds that are contributing to your attachment insecurities and keeping you stuck from acheiving your attachment security.   ·       Is shame keeping you stuck, and are you shaming yourself for feeling shame?  .       How can you start the practice of observing and taking authority of your thought world? 

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2024-09-03
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Episode 15 | How Poor Self Image is Affecting Your Relationships

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 15: "How Poor Self Image is Affecting Your Relationships." Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the pressures that modern social norms place on self-image. They discuss how both women and men are harder on themselves than ever before, constantly critiquing their appearance in the age of Botox, fillers, and testosterone injections. In a candid conversation, Dr. Hensley and Raina openly admit that they have both had Botox and lip filler, sharing how their husbands have questioned their motivations for these choices. The episode takes a personal turn as Dr. Hensley and Raina reveal their own struggles with self-image and how it has impacted their self-worth and relationship choices. They explore how a lack of self-esteem led them to choose unhealthy partners and stay in toxic relationships in the past. Dr. Hensley also sheds light on the often overlooked issue of men's body image struggles, sharing her husband's experiences and discussing how men, too, can be victims of abuse?both topics that are rarely acknowledged in society. The conversation then shifts to the root causes of self-image issues, including the influence of upbringing and the way caregivers' views on appearance can shape a child's self-perception. In this heartfelt and vulnerable episode, both hosts reflect on their ongoing battles with shame, negative self-talk, and perfectionism, emphasizing that healing is a journey they are still on. Toward the end, Dr. Hensley and Raina tackle the trending topic of weight loss injections, discussing their own experiences with these interventions and how emerging research suggests they might help release inflammation in those with severe trauma, who often hold onto stress hormones like cortisol. They conclude the episode by stressing the importance of not idolizing beauty and self-image above one's relationship with self, partner, and God, and they encourage listeners to let go of the pursuit of perfectionism. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        How social norms are affecting your self image.  ·       How both women and men are under tremendous pressures to keep up with social norms.  ·       How poor self worth leads to poor partner choices and staying in toxic, unhelathy relationships. ·       The root causes of poor self image issues.  ·       How to let go of the pursuit to perfectionism.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       How are you speaking to yourself? ·       What does your internal voice sound like? .       Are you allowing poor self image to affect the way you treat your partner and children?  ·       Are you idolizing beauty? .       Are you placing how you look above relationship to self, relationship to partner, and relationship to God? 

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2024-08-27
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Episode 14 | Why We Choose the Partners We Choose

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 14: "Why We Choose the Partners We Choose," Dr. Hensley delves deep into the psychology behind partner selection, focusing on how attachment styles influence our romantic choices. She begins by explaining how each attachment style?, the fearful avoidant, the anxious pre-occupied, and the dismissive avoidant, ?guides us toward certain types of partners, often driven by subconscious wounds formed in childhood. Dr. Hensley provides an in-depth analysis of the dynamics between fearful avoidants and dismissive avoidants, exploring why fearful avoidants are often drawn to partners who exhibit avoidant, narcissistic, or even abusive behaviors. She emphasizes how these dynamics are rooted in unresolved childhood needs, where the subconscious mind seeks to recreate familiar scenarios in an attempt to achieve a "happy ending." One of the key points Dr. Hensley discusses is how attachment insecurities can lead people to confuse anxiety with chemistry, resulting in strong attachments to the wrong individuals. She further examines the dismissive avoidant attachment style, shedding light on why dismissive avoidants choose the partners they do, and the patterns that emerge in these relationships. As the episode progresses, Dr. Hensley shifts focus to what happens when a securely attached person enters your life. She highlights the red flags of attachment insecurities and explains how, once you achieve attachment security, these red flags become more apparent, leading to a natural aversion?or "the ick"?toward unhealthy relationships. In the second half of the episode, Dr. Hensley dives into the characteristics and feelings that arise when the "right" person, or a securely attached partner, shows up in your life. She discusses how recognizing this kind of healthy connection is crucial for building fulfilling and lasting relationships. Dr. Hensley?s passion shines through as she expresses her mission to help as many people as possible find attachment security, ultimately leading them toward more meaningful and loving relationships. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        Why each attachment style chooses the partner they choose. ·       What role the subconscious mind plays on partner choice.  ·       An in depth review of the most common attachment insecurity dynamic Dr. Hensley sees in her practice, the FA/DA dynamic.  ·       The confusion between anxiety and chemistry.  ·       What it looks like and feels like to attract someone who is securely attached.  .       Dr. Hensley's mission on helping as many people as possible find healthy, lasting, and fulfilling relationships.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       What types of partners am I attracting? ·       What childhood wounds have contributed to my partner choices and am I trying to rewrite a happy ending to my childhood trauma? ·       How are my attachment insecurities contributing to my partner choices?  .       How can I start becoming securely attached so that I can start attracting a secure partner?

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2024-08-20
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Episode 13 | What Happens to the Brain After Relational/Emotional Trauma

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 13: What Happens to the Brain After Relational and Emotional Trauma. In this insightful episode of "The Love Doc Podcast", Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher explore the profound impact that relational and emotional trauma has on the brain, particularly when abuse is involved. Dr. Hensley takes listeners on a deep dive into the neurological science behind trauma, focusing on the roles of the prefrontal cortex, the amygdala, and the hippocampus. Dr. Hensley explains how these critical areas of the brain are affected by trauma, describing in detail how they may grow or shrink in response to sustained emotional stress. This transformation within the brain can lead to significant consequences, such as poor impulse control, heightened anxiety, depression, memory loss, and even addiction. The episode also includes personal reflections from both Dr. Hensley and Raina Butcher, as they share their own experiences with relational trauma. They discuss how some memories remain vivid while others fade, offering a personal perspective on the impact of trauma on memory. The discussion progresses to the effects of retraumatization, where Dr. Hensley uses the analogy of breaking an arm in the same place to illustrate how the brain becomes more susceptible to re-injury if and when it is exposed again to any level of emotional trauma. Even though the impact of retraumatization might not be as severe, it can trigger a resurgence of specific issues or ailments within the body, particularly due to the reactivation of existing neural grooves. As the episode wraps up, Dr. Hensley emphasizes the interconnectedness between brain health and the central nervous system. She underscores the importance of healing the brain to improve overall nervous system function, thereby reducing the risk of disease. The episode concludes on a powerful note, with Dr. Hensley and Raina highlighting the importance of healing for the sake of future generations. They stress that providing children with emotional stability and teaching them about the value of secure attachments is one of the greatest gifts a parent can offer. Tune in for an episode that blends scientific insight with heartfelt personal stories, all aimed at helping listeners understand the profound effects trauma has on the brain and the importance of healing. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        How each part of the brain is affected by relational/emotional trauma.  ·       How emotional/relational trauma on the brain lead to things like anxiety, depression, poor impulse control, and even addictions.  ·       What happens to the brain and how it reacts when there is a retraumatization.  ·       The effects the brain has on the central nervous system.  ·       How healing the brain and central nervous system can reduce the risk of disease.  .       The importance of healing relational/emotional trauma for future generations.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       How has/is my relational/emotional trauma affecting me? ·       Have I experienced memory loss due to my emotional trauma? ·       Am I currently focused on the correct work to heal my nervous system and train my brain to know when I am experiencing a true threat to my well-being? .       How can I explore further healing for my own well-being and the well-being of my children and future generations? 

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2024-08-13
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Episode 12 | Dating in the Modern World

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 12: Dating in the Modern World. In this insightful episode of "The Love Doc Podcast," Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher delve into the complexities of modern dating. Recently married, both hosts reflect on their own experiences from just a few years ago, noting how challenging the dating scene was?and likely even more so today. Dr. Hensley highlights the struggles faced by those with insecure attachment styles, particularly the dismissive-avoidant. She explains how their limited emotional needs can complicate the use of dating apps, often leading to ghosting without explanation. The hosts share personal stories about their own challenges with dating apps and how they eventually met their husbands. Raina Butcher recounts her organic meeting with her husband, prompting Dr. Hensley to offer listeners practical advice on meeting potential partners outside of dating apps. Dr. Hensley provides extensive guidance on approaching someone you're interested in. She offers concrete tips for initiating conversations and gauging mutual interest, as well as advice on enhancing attractiveness on dating apps. Drawing on the science of attraction, she discusses common physical traits that tend to be appealing. Wrapping up the episode, Dr. Hensley emphasizes the importance of earning your attachment security in the dating process. She warns that those with anxious attachment often mistake red flags for chemistry and describes how avoidants may come on strong initially only to pull away later. With both issues contributing to the complexities of the dating world. Both hosts discuss how achieving secure attachment helps in recognizing red flags and avoiding time-wasters, ultimately attracting the right partner. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        The complexities of the dating world. ·       Why the dismissive avoidant does what they do in the dating phase of a relationship.  ·       Organic ways that you can meet someone.  ·       Attraction science and what makes someone attracted to you based on physical appearance alone.  ·       Why ghosting is never okay.  .       The importance of achieving your attachment security in the modern dating world.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       Are dating apps working for me? ·       Am I putting myself out into the world in a way that would allow for me to meet someone organically? ·       Does my dating app profile reflect an appearance that someone would find attractive? .       Am I securely dating? Meaning am I showing up as my honest, unapologetic self, while also being honest with others? If not, is it time to work on healing my attachment wounds so that I can attract the right partner?

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2024-08-06
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Episode 11 | Let Them

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC.  Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 11: Let Them. In Episode 11 of "The Love Doc Podcast," Dr. Hensley explores the concept of "let them" and its profound impact on relationships. She begins by addressing the common question she encounters in her practice: "How do I get my partner to [insert behavior]?" Dr. Hensley emphasizes that trying to change someone else's behavior is futile. Instead, she advises listeners to "let them" show up in their chosen way and then evaluate if that behavior aligns with their needs and desires. If it does, the relationship can flourish. If not, she discusses healthy ways to move on. Dr. Hensley explains that secure individuals do not abandon their own needs or compromise their desires in a romantic relationship. She delves into how different attachment styles struggle with the idea of "letting them." Fearful avoidant and anxious preoccupied individuals often grapple with high anxiety and fear of rejection, making it difficult for them to relinquish control. On the other hand, dismissive avoidants often fail to create an emotionally safe environment for their partners. The episode underscores the importance of achieving attachment security to navigate these complex dynamics. Continuing, Dr. Hensley highlights how modeling secure behavior can positively influence a more insecure partner, sometimes bringing about substantial change. She stresses the significance of setting boundaries and then being comfortable with others' perceptions of you and the relationship you share. By "letting them" hold their own narratives, you can find peace and freedom in living your truth. This of course does not go without your own self reflection to ensure that you are also showing up in a healthy, secure way. Dr. Hensley and co-host Raina Butcher share personal anecdotes about friends and ex-partners they have had to let go, allowing these individuals to maintain their own (sometimes erroneous) narratives. The episode concludes with Dr. Hensley addressing a popular question: "How do I get my ex back?" She breaks down the science of attraction and offers practical steps to assess whether rekindling a past relationship is worthwhile. Dr. Hensley also introduces her upcoming course, "How to Get Your Ex Back," set to release this fall. In the end, both Dr. Hensley and Raina Butcher emphasize the importance of letting go of people and things not meant for you, making room for what truly is. They reflect on how finding their own attachment security and practicing "letting them" ultimately led them to a deep sense of self love and to finding their husnands.  Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        The ideas and importance behind the statement "let them." ·       Addressing how the statement "How do I get my partner to" is the wrong approach when entering coaching. ·       "Let them" behave how they choose to behave, then take inventory of how this aligns with you own wants and needs. ·       The difference between how insecure attachment styles struggle with the idea of "let them" versus the securley attached. ·       Letting go of certian people in your life and the narrative they may have about you and the relationship you shared.  .       Is the effort on trying to get your ex back warrented and if so steps and advice on how to do so.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       Are anxiety and a strong need to control things standing in the way of your true healing? ·       Does it bother you when someone thinks poorly of you when you try to set an appropriate boundary? ·       Have you stated your needs and wants compassionatley and then let them (your partner) show up, and then taken real inventory? If so, how is your partner showing up for you? .       Are you holding onto your relationship simply so you can hold onto the narrative that you feel is the right one? Sometimes it is okay to be the villian in someone else's story as long as it grants you your peace and freedom. 

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2024-07-30
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Episode 10 | Are They A Narcissist?

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 10: Are They a Narcissist? In this enlightening episode of "The Love Doc Podcast," Dr. Hensley dives into the complex world of narcissism. Drawing from a rich array of perspectives, including social psychology, evolutionary psychology, developmental psychology, and clinical psychology, Dr. Hensley explores the intricate nature of narcissism and why it?s such a widely studied yet frequently misunderstood field. Dr. Hensley begins by examining the various theories that explain how narcissism develops in individuals. She highlights how the term "narcissist" is often overused in contemporary discourse, leading to confusion between narcissistic traits and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). This distinction is crucial, as NPD can be both over-diagnosed and under-diagnosed. True narcissists possess a remarkable ability to manipulate those around them, including their therapists, making accurate diagnosis challenging. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing how romantic relationships can exacerbate narcissistic traits. Dr. Hensley explains that the degree of perceived threat within these relationships can amplify existing narcissistic behaviors, complicating the dynamics between partners. One of the highlights of the episode is Dr. Hensley's in-depth analysis of attachment styles and their potential to be misinterpreted as NPD. She clarifies that attachment behaviors, while sometimes similar to narcissistic traits, are rooted in changeable behaviors that primarily manifest in romantic relationships. In contrast, true narcissism permeates all areas of a narcissist's life, including relationships with authority figures.  Dr. Hensley also sheds light on the differences between overt and covert narcissists, offering her perspective on which type she considers more dangerous. This segment provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of how narcissistic behaviors can vary widely and the specific risks associated with each type.  Throughout the episode, both Dr. Hensley and her co-host, Raina Butcher, share their  personal experiences with narcissists, adding a relatable and practical dimension to the discussion. In the final segment, Dr. Hensley addresses the profound impact of narcissism on children, emphasizing how narcissists often use their children to exert control and manipulate, resulting in deep psychological scars. Dr. Hensley and Raina conclude the episode with a message of hope, providing practical advice and resources for those dealing with narcissistic abuse. They emphasize that understanding and addressing narcissism can lead to healthier relationships and personal growth. Join Dr. Hensley and Raina Butcher for this compelling and insightful exploration of narcissism, offering valuable perspectives for anyone navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals. Disclaimer: None of the material contained herein is medical advice. The advice and perspective that Dr. Hensley suggest are strictly that of opinion with highlights of scientific research.   Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        The science behind narcissism. ·       The theories that explain how narcissism develops. ·       The threat that narcisstic traits play in our romatic relationships. ·       The difference between behaviors of specific attachment styles and the narcissist.  ·       The difference between the overt and covert narcissist.  Consider/Ask Yourself ·       What are the differences between Narcissitic Personality Disorder and narcissitic traits?  ·       Is your partner a true narcissist or do they just have attachement wounding and insecurities?   ·       If dealing with a narcissitic partner how can I seek intervention for myself and my children? 

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2024-07-23
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Episode 9 | Settling the Confusion between the Fearful Avoidant and the Dismissive Avoidant

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 9 (announced as Episode 8 in audio): "Settling the Confusion between the Fearful Avoidant and the Dismissive Avoidant." In this enlightening episode Dr. Hensley delves deep into the often misunderstood world of attachment styles, focusing specifically on the Fearful Avoidant (FA) and the Dismissive Avoidant (DA). While their names suggest similarity, Dr. Hensley reveals the significant differences in the behaviors and motivations underlying these two styles. Dr. Hensley meticulously describes how the Fearful Avoidant (FA) exhibits both anxious and avoidant behaviors due to a complex mix of fear and anxiety, often oscillating between seeking closeness and sometimes pushing away when they feel betrayed. This oscillation can be heavily influenced by various factors, including the attachment style of their partner. In contrast, the Dismissive Avoidant (DA) maintains distance primarily as a means of preserving independence and autonomy, showing little interest in emotional closeness. Through vivid examples and detailed explanations, Dr. Hensley highlights the typical dynamics seen in FA/DA partnerships. These relationships are often marked by one partner's pursuit of intimacy and connection, which can manifest as anxious behaviors or even aggression, while the other partner retreats further into avoidance. This push-pull dynamic creates a cycle of misunderstanding and frustration, leaving partners feeling perpetually out of sync. Drawing from her extensive experience in relationship coaching, Dr. Hensley shares how she navigates these complex dynamics in her hybrid group coaching program. She provides actionable tools and strategies to help couples achieve a balance that honors both the DA's need for autonomy and the FA's desire for intimacy. Through structured guidance and support, she helps partners break the vicious cycle and cultivate a harmonious and fulfilling relationship. Join Dr. Hensley in this episode as she unpacks the intricacies of these attachment styles and offers practical solutions for creating lasting change and deeper connection in romantic partnerships. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visist the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        The behaviors of the Fearful Avoidant. ·       The behaviors of the Dismissive Avoidant. ·       The subconcious wounds that each attachment style expereinces and why. ·       The Fearful Avoidant/ Dismissive Avoidant romatic relationship dynamic and why it is one of the most complex.  ·       Ways in which the FA/DA romatic relationship dynamic can make it work.  Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Are you more Fearful Avoidant or Dismissive Avoidant?  ·       How have your childhood expereinces and relationship to your caregivers influenced your attachment style? ·       Based on which attachment style that you relate to the most, are there ways in which you are willing to change to help with the outcome of your romatic relationship? ·       How committed are you to make the changes necessary to heal your attachment style? 

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2024-07-16
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Episode 8 | Be Kind but Take No Shit

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 8: Be Kind but Take No Shit. In this compelling continuation of our two-part series, we dive deeper into the critical topic of how to cope when someone wrongfully  hurts you. While the previous episode centered on the Faith perspective?emphasizing forgiveness, kindness, and holding strong to scripture as a way to stay out of the spirit of revenge and bitterness?this episode shifts focus to the essential practice of setting hard boundaries when someone wronfully hurts you. Join Dr. Hensley as she explores the art of being kind while taking no shit. She delves into the importance of establishing boundaries, recognizing when it?s time to set them, and understanding what these boundaries look like. Drawing on both psychological insights and biblical teachings, Dr. Hensley illustrates how even Jesus advocated for lovingly setting boundaries. With raw honesty, Dr. Hensley shares her personal journey of dealing with a recent painful experience. She explains how she enforced consequences for the wrongful actions of others toward her and her family, embodying the principle of being kind but firm. As the episode continues, Dr. Hensley touches on why setting boundaries can be particularly challenging for those with attachment insecurities and how fear can hinder a persons ability to set, and stick to a boundary, sometimes resulting in them being unable to protect themselves from being hurt over and over.  She explores why boundary setting is so important for both the person setting the boundary and the person that the boundary is set against. She gives concrete, real life examples of what a boundary looks like, and even what to say in particular situations within romatic relationships. Prepare to be empowered by this authentic episode, which will inspire you to establish your own personal boundaries, enabling you to live a life where you remain kind but uncompromising. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visist the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·        What it looks like to stay kind, while also taking no shit. ·       Ways in which Jesus and scripture spoke about setting firm boundaries. ·       When is the right time to set a boundary and what does a firm boundary look and sound like. ·       Why setting boundaries for specific attachment styles is so difficult.  ·       Why boundary setting is so important in all of your relationships.  Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Are you able to set the correct boundaries with the people in your life? ·       Are you being your partners doormat and in turn enabling your partner's behavior by not setting firm boundaries? ·       Are you setting boundaries out of bitterness, rebellion, or as a way to seek revenge against someone who hurt you? ·       How committed are you to your boundaries? Are you setting them and staying stedfast in your follow through, regardless of the natural consequences? 

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2024-07-09
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Episode 7 | How to Cope When Someone Wrongfully Hurts You (Part 1)

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 7: How to Cope When Someone Wrongfully Hurts You (Part 1)  In this heartfelt episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Hensley dives deep into the faith perspective on coping when wrongfully hurt by someone. Drawing from a current, profoundly painful personal experience affecting her family, Dr. Hensley shares candid real-life examples of how she navigates the challenging emotions of hate, fear, and the desire for revenge. She emphasizes the importance of transcending these feelings by embracing the spirit of God. Dr. Hensley delves into specific Bible verses that have provided her solace and guidance during times of heartache and loss of control. She also integrates a psychological perspective, offering practical tools to manage your thoughts and regulate your nervous system during distressing situations. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and find spiritual strategies to cope with pain. Dr. Hensley?s insights help listeners move from the flesh to the spirit of the Lord, fostering inner peace and resilience.  **Disclaimer:** Dr. Hensley?s practice encompasses both spiritual and secular approaches. She welcomes all faiths, including those without religious beliefs, and is committed to providing perspectives tailored to individual preferences. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·      The right ways to cope when someone hurts you.  ·       How to escape your flesh and move into the spirt and word of God to heal.  ·      Psychological perspecitves of how to cope when someone hurts you.  ·       How the different attachment styles deal with the pain of when someone wrongfully hurts them.  ·       How to overcome feelings of hate, fear, and wanting to seek revenge.  Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       How are my thoughts contributing to feelings of hate and fear when someone wrongfully hurts me? ·       Am I seeking the word of God in my healing journey? ·       Have I had ruminating thoughts around seeking revenge against the person who hurt me? ·       How is my attachment style contributing to me staying in my flesh instead of seeking the word of God? 

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2024-07-02
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Episode 6 | Understanding How You Want to be Loved Through Your Attachment Style

Episode 6: Understanding How You want to be Loved Through Your Attachment Style. Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. In this insightful episode of "How Do You Want to Be Loved," we delve into the profound ways people seek and experience love based on their attachment styles. Drawing from our personal journeys in marriage and past relationships, we reflect on how each relationship has been a stepping stone in understanding our own needs and desires, ultimately leading us to our wonderful husbands. Dr. Hensley, expands the conversation by emphasizing that truly loving your partner goes beyond the five love languages. She explains that these languages are just the beginning, a surface-level understanding. To genuinely connect, one must delve deeper. For example, a Fearful Avoidant might cherish gifts, but not just any gift?they desire something unique that mirrors their individuality, showing that you truly see and understand them. Dr. Hensley highlights the importance of studying your partner, gathering insights, and learning to avoid their triggers. This attentive approach, focused on meeting your partner's specific needs, is essential for a thriving relationship. She underscores the necessity of earning attachment security, which involves a radical self-discovery journey and a mindset shift from "how do I get them to" to "what is it about me that accepts this circumstance." Further, Dr. Hensley discusses the power of "speaking life" into your relationship. This means actively communicating with your partner about how they wish to be loved, what feels good to them, and how you can love them better. Co-host Raina Butcher wraps up the episode by affirming Dr. Hensley's insights and sharing the tangible results her clients have achieved through her guidance. Dr. Hensley's expertise in teaching people how to love one another authentically is not just theoretical; it's transformative. Join us for this episode to explore how understanding and nurturing attachment styles can lead to deeper, more meaningful connections in your relationships. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·       How each attachment style prefers to be loved.  ·       Why Attachment Style is the number one predictor of people's love needs.  ·       How the five love languages are only the surface of understanding how someone wants to be loved. ·       The deeper meaning behind all the love languages.   ·       How to avoid your partners triggers so that they feel more loved.  ·       How to gather data and take inventory on your partner so you can discover on a deeper level how they prefer to be loved.  Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       How is that you prefer to be loved? ·       Is your partner willing to understand how it is that you prefer to be loved? .       What is the deeper meaning of your love language?  ·       Are you actively working on avoiding your partners triggers as a way to show them that you see and understand them.  ·       Are you speaking up to what your needs are, so that your partner is aware of how you want to be loved? ·       How important is it to me that I achieve my attachment security so that both mine and my partners love needs are met? 

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2024-06-25
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Episode 5 | Living in Victimhood

Episode 5: Living in Victimhood Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Episode 5 ?Living in Victimhood," is where we delve into this profound and often painful topic. Join Dr. Hensley as she draws from both her extensive coaching experience and her deeply personal journey to explore why some people get stuck in a state of victimization while others rise above it to experience post-traumatic growth. In this emotional and revealing episode, Dr. Hensley opens up about her own struggles with victimhood. She shares intimate stories of her past, candidly discussing how she played a role in her own victimization and the steps she took to break free from it. Her vulnerability offers listeners a rare glimpse into the person behind "The Love Doc," showcasing her resilience and determination to transform her pain into a powerful tool for helping others. Dr. Hensley also dives into the psychology behind victimhood, explaining the pathologies that keep individuals trapped in a cycle of suffering. She explores the factors that lead some people to experience post-traumatic stress, while others find a way to grow and thrive after trauma. Through real-life examples from her coaching practice, Dr. Hensley illustrates common patterns of victimhood and provides actionable strategies to overcome them. This episode is not just about understanding victimhood; it's about empowering listeners to recognize and break free from their own cycles of self-victimization. Dr. Hensley's personal triumph story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that it is possible to heal, grow, and transform even the deepest relational traumas into a source of strength and purpose. Tune in to Episode 5 of "The Love Doc Podcast" for a heartfelt, insightful, and inspiring conversation that will challenge you to look within, confront your own victimhood, and embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with Dr. Hensley on a deeper level and gain valuable insights that can help you or someone you love break free from the chains of victimhood. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·       Victimhood and why some people get stuck in it. ·       Why some people experience post traumatic growth versus post-traumatic stress after a traumatic event. ·       How victimhood is an antidote for our pain. ·       The difference between being a victim and a volunteer. ·       How the different attachment styles live in victimization. ·       How to overcome victimhood within your own relationship. Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       How have a contributed to my own victimhood? ·       Am I looking within to understand and evaluate my own choices to stay in a perpetual state of traumatization? ·       Have I been using victimization as an antidote to my pain? ·       Am I shaming myself into healing? (Shame and healing do not mix) ·       How is my attachment style contributing to me staying in a place of victimization?

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2024-06-18
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Episode 4 | Why Women Won't have Sex with their Husbands/Partners

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. In this enlightening episode Dr. Hensley delves into a controversial topic that many couples struggle with: the decline in sexual intimacy over time. She begins by exploring why attraction and sex come so easily during the dating phase of a relationship, but often wane as the relationship matures. Dr. Hensley highlights a significant gender difference in sexual experiences, focusing on the primary reason many women lose interest in sex with their husbands. She explains that unmet attachment needs lead women to feel emotionally unsafe, which in turn affects their desire for sexual intimacy. To fully understand this episode, listeners are introduced to key concepts of attachment. Dr. Hensley details how different attachment style dynamics, such as Fearful Avoidant/Dismissive Avoidant and Fearful Avoidant/Fearful Avoidant, impact sexual intimacy when it comes to their individual needs. She also discusses why both men and women seek sex for validation, albeit for different reasons. The episode covers several critical points: - The challenges women face in experiencing pleasure during sex. - The roles of feminine and masculine energy in sexual intimacy. - The characteristics of the wounded masculine energy versus true masculine energy, emphasizing the importance of a man being a trusted decision-maker, who deeply understands and sees his wife. Dr. Hensley provides a broad perspective on what a happy marriage with a healthy sex life looks like and concludes by offering specific insights into what each female attachment style needs for sexual intimacy and emotional safety. While acknowledging the controversial nature of this topic, Dr. Hensley aims to help couples achieve true sexual intimacy, leading to a beautiful and healthy sex life. Tune in for an episode filled with valuable insights and practical advice for rekindling the spark in your long-term relationship.  Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visit the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: ·       The gender difference with sexual needs.   ·       One of the main reasons why wives won?t have sex with their husbands. ·       The different attachment style pairings when it comes to sexual intimacy needs. ·       How feminine and masculine energy play a role in sexual intimacy. ·       What the wounded masculine looks like versus the true masculine. ·       What each female attachment style needs to experience sexual pleasure and emotional safety.  Consider/Ask Yourself: ·       Am I contributing to my partners emotional safety to keep our spark alive? ·       Have I ever used sex as a band aid to avoid bigger problems in our relationship? ·       What does it mean for my wife to experience true sexual pleasure? Hint: it is more than just a physical need. ·       For husbands: am I being the emotional leader in my household? ·       For wives: am I allowing my husband to take on a leadership role or am I criticizing him too much? ·       What are my partners attachment needs and am I contributing to meeting them?

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2024-06-11
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Episode 3 | How Does this Hurt You?

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. In a profound exploration of relationship dynamics, *The Love Doc* podcast presents Episode 3: "How Does This Hurt You?" Dr. Hensley embarks on a transformative journey into the heart of conflict resolution, revealing how a single question can hold the key to unlocking deeper understanding and connection in romantic partnerships. The episode opens with Dr. Hensley's poignant reflection on the transformative power of asking the question, "How does this hurt you?" Drawing from her own personal experiences, she shares a compelling real-life example of how this simple yet profound question allowed her to dismantle her own trigger cycle with her husband, leading to breakthroughs in communication and emotional intimacy. Listeners are invited to explore how this question serves as a catalyst for empathy, compassion, and curiosity within relationships, offering partners the opportunity to truly see and hear each other's perspectives. Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, Dr. Hensley illuminates how embracing vulnerability and openness can pave the way for resolved conflict resolution and deeper emotional connection. Delving deeper into the complexities of relationship dynamics, Dr. Hensley unpacks why so many couples find themselves trapped in never-ending conflict cycles. She shines a light on the destructive nature of defensiveness and the tendency to perceive one's own reality as the only truth, ultimately leading to stagnation and disconnection in relationships. As the episode unfolds, Dr. Hensley offers practical strategies and tools for breaking free from the cycle of conflict and forging a path towards lasting resolution and harmony with your partner. From fostering active listening skills to cultivating a mindset of empathy and understanding, listeners are empowered to navigate conflict with grace and compassion. By the episode's conclusion, listeners are equipped with a newfound understanding of the transformative power of vulnerability, empathy, and open communication in romantic partnerships. Through Dr. Hensley's expert guidance and heartfelt wisdom, *The Love Doc* podcast Episode 3 serves as a beacon of hope for couples seeking to heal, grow, and thrive in their relationships.   What is covered:  Dr. Hensley?s real life experience on how she used this question with her husband. How this question translates into showing empathy towards your partner in the mist of conflict. How this creates space to show love and compassion towards your partner versus defensiveness. How this question creates space for introspection and growth with you and your partner. Letting go of offensiveness. How conflict should create more closeness and trust in your relationship. Why so many couples get stuck in the never ending conflict cycle.   Consider/Ask Yourself: What is your level of offensiveness/defensiveness within conflict? Are you considering how the things you say may hurt your partner? Are you willing to apologize within conflict? Be the change you want to see in your relationship. Why does being right within conflict matter so much to you? Reality is subjective. How can I be non-defensive enough to ask my partner the question of ?how does this hurt you?? Am I allowing my thoughts to ruminate and make me more defensive with my partner?   Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

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2024-06-04
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Episode 2 | Unveiling the Subconscious Mind

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. In the captivating second episode of *The Love Doc* podcast, listeners are taken on an enlightening journey into the depths of the subconscious mind. Dr. Hensley, a specialized social psychologist and host of the show, delves into the intricate workings of this elusive part of the brain, unraveling its mysteries and shedding light on its profound influence on our relationships and emotional well-being. The episode begins with a comprehensive exploration of what exactly the subconscious mind is, backed by solid scientific research and insights. Dr. Hensley breaks down complex concepts into digestible chunks, offering listeners a clear understanding of the subconscious and its role in shaping our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Drawing from years of coaching experience and psychological expertise, Dr. Hensley highlights the profound impact that our early caregivers and childhood wounds have on the development of the subconscious mind. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own upbringing and how it might have influenced their subconscious patterns and beliefs. As the episode progresses, Dr. Hensley unveils the fascinating ways in which the subconscious mind comes to the forefront during times of conflict, illuminating why it can be so challenging to access and understand. Through compelling examples and real-life anecdotes, listeners gain valuable insights into their own subconscious processes and how they manifest in their relationships. One of the most compelling aspects of the episode is Dr. Hensley's exploration of how the subconscious mind operates with each attachment style, but perhaps the most anticipated moment of the episode comes when Dr. Hensley shares powerful strategies for hacking the subconscious mind, empowering listeners to become more securely attached individuals in their relationships. What is covered: What is the subconscious mind and the science behind it. Why the subconscious mind controls nearly 90% of human behavior. How our childhood wounds imprint the subconscious mind. The impact our caregivers have on the subconscious mind. The different sections/types of the brain. How the subconscious mind operates with each attachment style. Understanding how to hack the subconscious mind.   Consider/ Ask yourself How am I responding in conflict? What are some childhood wounds that are influencing my subconscious mind? Are there things I need to forgive my parents for? Is my attachment style influencing how I behave during conflict? How can I start dismantling my own trigger cycle in order to be a better partner and parent? Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-05-28
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Episode 1 | Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Dating Decoder with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind?s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. In the debut Episode of The Love Doc Podcast, "Should I Stay, or Should I Go" Dr. Hensley and Raina Butcher explore the timeless dilemma of whether to remain in a relationship or to part ways. Drawing from her expertise in attachment theory and relationship dynamics, Dr. Hensley examines the various factors that contribute to relationship satisfaction and longevity. Listeners will learn to recognize signs of a healthy relationship, understand red flags indicating it may be time to move on, and gain valuable insights into the decision-making process when it comes to matters of the heart. Listeners can expect engaging discussions, expert insights, and actionable advice that will empower them to make informed decisions about their relationships and personal growth. Tune in to "The Love Doc Podcast" every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert guidance, and a deeper understanding of love and relationships in the modern world. To see all of Dr. Hensley?s services please visist the links below and follow her on social media. Dr. Hensley?s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/group-coaching/ Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: https://www.thedatingdecoder.com/book-appointment/ Purchase Dr. Hensley?s online course: https://dating-decoder.mykajabi.com/offers/PpEPKnsM/checkout Tik-Tok: the_dating_decoder Instagram: @the_dating_decoder Facebook: The Dating Decoder Youtube: @Dr.SarahHensley What is covered: The trauma bond and how the brain operates within a trauma bond The cycle of intermittent reinforcement  Toxic hope  The different psychological pathologies that create toxic environments  The psychological science behind infidelity  Why each attachment style cheats Consider/Ask Yourself: Dr. Hensley?s two non-negotiables??. Is there emotional, physical, sexual or financial abuse happening in the relationship? Has there been repeated infidelity?  What does emotional and financial abuse look like? What have you and your partner already tried? How committed is your partner to the process of improving your relationship?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-love-doc-podcast--6390558/support.
2024-05-21
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