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What happens when therapy becomes just another tech startup looking to maximize profits? In our deep dive into BetterHelp, we uncover the troubling reality behind the polished marketing of America's largest online therapy platform.

Behind those ubiquitous podcast advertisements lies a business model that's crushing therapists while potentially harming the very clients it claims to help. We break down exactly how the platform's payment structure forces therapists to maintain unsustainable caseloads – as many as 75 clients per therapist – while paying them a fraction of what clients are charged. When therapists inevitably burn out and leave the platform, clients (some dealing with abandonment issues) are simply reassigned without warning or closure.

The questionable practices don't end there. From the FTC's $7.8 million fine for selling sensitive client data to Facebook and Snapchat, to a system that penalizes therapists for writing thorough responses to client messages, the platform seems designed to extract maximum profit while providing minimal support. As former BetterHelp therapists ourselves, we share firsthand experiences with the platform's troubling approach to mental healthcare.

Don't settle for exploitative therapy. We discuss better alternatives for both affordable and online therapy options, including insurance-covered teletherapy and therapists who offer sliding scale payments. Your mental health journey deserves ethical, sustainable care from properly compensated professionals who have the time and resources to truly help you heal.

Have you had experiences with BetterHelp or similar platforms? Share your story with us at [email protected] and join our conversation about creating a more ethical mental health ecosystem.

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We've all seen the ads - BetterHelp promises convenient therapy at your fingertips. But behind the slick marketing lies a company with deeply troubling business practices that every therapy-seeker should know about.

When Christopher Patchet, a licensed therapist, along with Lindsay McClane, looks on how BetterHelp operates. From selling sensitive user data to Facebook (resulting in a $7.8 million FTC fine) to allegedly creating fake profiles for real therapists without their consent, the revelations are genuinely shocking.

The toxic ingredients are plentiful: until 2017, BetterHelp didn't even require therapists to be licensed. The platform allegedly directed potential clients away from therapists they specifically sought out. Most disturbing is the revelation that BetterHelp notified Facebook each time users logged into their accounts or attended therapy sessions, creating a pipeline for targeted ads at vulnerable moments.

Despite knowing all this, many mental health influencers continue promoting BetterHelp to their followers. Even more telling: the company spent $8 million on podcast advertising in a single month - more than they paid in fines for violating user privacy.

This episode is just part one of our investigation. Next week, we'll explore how BetterHelp's practices harm both therapists and the clients who trust them with their mental health. If you've used online therapy services or considered them, this two-part series is essential listening that might change how you view digital mental healthcare forever.

https://www.socialworkers.org/News/News-Releases/ID/2613/Online-therapy-referral-company-that-used-deceptive-marketing-practices-is-no-longer-in-business

https://www.faithfulmind.org/listing/203185-Christopher-Patchet

https://www.hipaajournal.com/betterhelp-settlement-ftc-health-data-privacy/

https://vator.tv/2020-11-11-when-betterhelp-was-young-the-early-years/

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The modern manosphere has created a pantheon of male archetypes, but none quite as supposedly elusive and mysterious as the "Sigma Male." Emerging around 2017-2018, this concept markets itself as the rarest, coolest type of masculinity—the lone wolf operating outside traditional hierarchies while maintaining alpha-level respect.

But peek behind the curtain, and you'll find fascinating contradictions. The very examples held up as quintessential Sigmas—James Bond, Batman, John Wick—actually reveal the myth's fatal flaw. Each of these characters relies deeply on community and support systems. Bruce Wayne has Alfred. Bond has Q and an entire spy network. The truly independent man simply doesn't exist, and the glorification of extreme isolation contributes directly to the male loneliness epidemic ravaging modern society.

What's particularly striking is that genuinely confident, independent people rarely label themselves. When examining real-world figures sometimes referenced as Sigmas (like Keanu Reeves or David Bowie), we find individuals who openly acknowledged the communities that supported them. The loudest self-proclaimed Sigma Males tend to be those most desperately seeking validation and a sense of belonging—the very opposite of the archetype they claim to embody.

This paradox reveals something profound about modern masculinity: the desperate search for identity often leads to self-defeating behaviors. Men rejecting social connections in the name of independence find themselves isolated, vulnerable, and without the very community safeguards that keep us healthy and grounded. There's nothing wrong with introversion or independence, but when taken to extremes and worn as an identity shield, these traits become potentially deadly.

Have you encountered self-proclaimed Sigma Males in your life? We'd love to hear your experiences and perspectives—write to us at [email protected] or find us on social media to continue the conversation.

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Conspiracy theories have evolved from reasonable skepticism about government deception to dangerous delusions with real-world consequences, tracing their development from Cold War distrust to internet-fueled paranoia.

• American trust in government began eroding in the 1940s with the Roswell incident and changing official explanations
• MK Ultra program confirmation proved the government conducted unethical human experiments with LSD and torture
• The internet's emergence around 1999-2000 created perfect conditions for conspiracy theories to spread rapidly
• Major conspiracy drivers include 9/11 "Loose Change" video, Pizzagate, QAnon, and modern election fraud claims
• Scientific approach requires observation, question, hypothesis, testing, and conclusion—steps conspiracies often skip
• Understanding the difference between likelihood based on evidence and absolute factual certainty is crucial
• Conspiracy theories rated as "antifreeze" on the toxicity scale—deceptively appealing but potentially deadly
• Healthy skepticism is valuable, but requires relying on credible sources and willingness to change beliefs
• Some conspiracies have deadly consequences through direct violence or dangerous health decisions

Rate and like our show! Write to us about your favorite conspiracy theories at [email protected]. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and soon on Bluesky.

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We've all felt that gut-punch moment. You discover that celebrity you've adored for years—whose work shaped your identity or brought you comfort—has revealed themselves to be deeply problematic. Your social media feed floods with damning evidence, your friends debate whether to throw away their merchandise, and you're left wondering: what now?

This episode dives headfirst into the messy, emotional territory of fallen idols. From JK Rowling's transformation from beloved author to controversial TERF figure, Johnny Depp's complicated history of abuse allegations masked by brilliant PR, to Elon Musk's increasingly erratic behavior and Neil Gaiman's disturbing accusations—we explore what happens when heroes become villains in their own stories.

But this conversation goes deeper than celebrity gossip. We're examining the moral gymnastics we perform to justify continuing to support problematic creators. Does "separating the art from the artist" hold up when your financial support enables ongoing harmful behavior? Can you draw a clear line between enjoying someone's creative work and endorsing their worldview?

The reality is both complex and simple. While completely eliminating all problematic consumption might be impossible (yes, we all need smartphones), small changes collectively make massive impacts. Every ticket unsold, every subscription canceled, every book unbought sends a message. Whether it's cutting your Target visits in half or passing on the newest Tesla, these decisions reflect our values in action.

Perhaps the healthiest approach is to abandon the concept of heroes altogether. No gods, no heroes, no idols—just people, all flawed, all capable of both brilliance and terrible judgment. The choice to withdraw your support isn't about purity; it's about aligning your actions with your values, even when it means letting go of things you once loved.

What celebrities have you struggled to separate from their work? Where do you draw your personal line? Share your thoughts with us and join the conversation about ethical consumption in a world where information travels at the speed of a tweet.

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Empathy seems like a universally positive trait - until it's weaponized against you. In this eye-opening exploration of emotional boundaries, hosts Lindsay McClain and Christopher Patchet, LCSW unpack the surprising dangers of being "too nice" in a world that's quick to exploit kindness.

Drawing from psychological research and personal experience, they distinguish between empathy (actually feeling others' emotions) and sympathy (feeling compassion without absorbing emotions), revealing how these traits evolved to strengthen human communities. The benefits are undeniable - studies show sympathetic physicians make more accurate diagnoses, while empathetic leaders build stronger teams. But where's the line between healthy connection and self-destruction?

The conversation takes a powerful turn when examining how excessive empathy leads to burnout, poor decision-making, and vulnerability to manipulation. Christopher candidly acknowledges his own struggles with setting boundaries, offering listeners a relatable perspective on breaking free from the people-pleasing trap. Their discussion illuminates how narcissists and scammers specifically target empathetic individuals, using emotional urgency ("I'll be homeless tomorrow!") to bypass rational thinking.

Perhaps most valuably, they provide practical strategies for maintaining compassion without sacrificing yourself. From identifying manipulation tactics to recognizing when someone's crossing your boundaries, their advice empowers listeners to protect their emotional well-being without becoming callous. They also issue a thoughtful call to check on friends who "always say yes" - these individuals may be drowning in empathy burnout without realizing it.

Whether you're recovering from being taken advantage of or trying to support someone who gives too much, this episode offers the perfect balance of scientific insight, personal vulnerability, and actionable wisdom. The next time someone tells you that you can never be "too nice," you'll know exactly why that's dangerously untrue.

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A seemingly innocent church invitation from a workplace crush led Christopher into the unsettling world of cult recruitment—complete with love bombing, isolation tactics, and a baptism offer on day two. This jarring personal story opens our deep exploration into the psychology of cults and why they're far more prevalent in society than most realize.

Cults aren't just remote compounds with strange religious practices. They're organizations built around absolute authoritarian leadership, financial exploitation, and systematic isolation that can manifest in religious groups, political factions, and even wellness communities. What makes cults truly dangerous is how they exploit our fundamental human needs for belonging, validation, and purpose.

This week Christopher Patchet, LCSW and Linday McClain examine the warning signs that help identify cult-like behavior: leaders with questionable backgrounds demanding unquestioning loyalty, recruitment tactics pushing for quick commitment, and the systematic dismantling of outside relationships. Most troubling is the financial dependency created when groups demand significant portions of members' income while providing minimal transparency about how funds are used.

For those with loved ones already ensnared in cult dynamics, direct confrontation typically backfires. Maintaining a non-judgmental connection provides a crucial lifeline for when doubts eventually arise. Recovery from cult involvement is complex, often requiring former members to relearn emotional expression beyond the limited range permitted within the group.

The most powerful defense? Education. Understanding these dynamics can help protect you and those you care about from toxic group influence. Whether you're curious about cult psychology or concerned about controlling dynamics in your own community, this episode provides crucial insights into recognizing and avoiding these dangerous systems of control.

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In a world where digital connections often come with emotional detachment, ghosting has become a prevalent topic. Lindsay McClain and Christopher Patchet, LCSW dive deep into the reasons behind ghosting, exploring personal anecdotes that range from humorous to heart-wrenching. With statistics revealing that a staggering percentage of young adults have experienced ghosting, the conversation expands beyond just dating into friendships and professional relationships.

Listeners will find insights into the psychological implications of being ghosted, alongside discussions about empathy and emotional communication. The hosts examine whether society's increasing reliance on technology is contributing to a decline in confrontation skills and curiosity about others' feelings. 

This episode aims to challenge listeners to reflect on their relationship habits and consider the importance of open dialogue in fostering meaningful connections. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion filled with laughter, stories, and valuable takeaways. Don’t forget to subscribe and engage with your own ghosting experiences—we would love to hear from you!

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Is life coaching a scam, or does it really hold the key to personal transformation? Join us on the Toxic Cooking Show as we unravel this intricate tapestry of guidance, dissecting the realms of life coaching and therapy with precision and humor. We promise an enlightening exploration into when you might benefit from the pep talks of an energetic life coach and when the profound expertise of a licensed therapist is essential. Along the way, we’ll arm you with the knowledge to make informed choices about the support you need, ensuring you never confuse quick fixes with deep healing.

In a world fraught with anxiety and societal pressures, recognizing the signs of a panic attack can be life-changing. We tackle critical conversations around drink safety and the blurred ethical lines between life coaches and therapists. With Christopher Patchet, LCSW, and Lindsay McClane at the helm, we critique the often exorbitant costs of life coaching and their implications, urging listeners to look beyond the surface for real, qualified help. As we wrap up, we invite you to share your own stories, making this podcast a dynamic dialogue about the toxic ingredients of life and how we can stir them into something meaningful.

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Ever wondered if your favorite fitness influencer is more interested in your wallet than your well-being? Join us as we humorously dissect the world of "fitfluencers" with your hosts, Lindsay McClain and Christopher Patchet, LCSW. Our mission? To help you sift through the glossy promises and algorithm-driven content that bombard our screens. We're taking a historical stroll to uncover how fitness went from being a natural part of life to the marketing behemoth it is today. Spoiler alert: It's not all kale smoothies and yoga selfies!

Our exploration kicks off with a little history lesson, tracing back to the early fitness gurus like Bernard McFadden and Charles Atlas. These trailblazers were selling supplements and advice long before Instagram's filters were even a twinkle in a developer's eye. Fast forward to today, and many modern "fitfluencers" continue this tradition, often promoting products without much regulation. By reflecting on the past, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to question the legitimacy and safety of what we're being sold in the name of health.

Manipulation isn't just for magicians and politicians—it's a staple in the fitfluencing world. We'll unravel the art of visual trickery, from strategic angles and lighting to more sophisticated filters and editing tools. Whether it's the iconic MySpace angles or Chloe Ting's catchy workout titles, there's a method to the madness. But fear not! With a touch of humor and a dash of skepticism, we're here to arm you with critical thinking skills to navigate the often deceptive landscape of fitness advice. So, buckle up and prepare for a lively ride through the world of fitness fads, scams, and everything in between!