In this special crossover bonus episode, we share an insightful conversation from our sister podcast, Horror Heals, where we explore how horror can be a powerful tool for healing trauma. Corey and Kendall dive into Kendall’s adoption journey and DNA found family story, connecting it to the themes of resilience and recovery that often arise in both horror films and real-life experiences.

What Your Therapist Isn’t Telling You

Guest: Dr. Ashley Allen

We’re joined by Dr. Ashley Allen, a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in mood disorders, PTSD, grief, and trauma. Known for her work with neurodivergent LGBTQ+ individuals, Ashley offers a surprising perspective on how horror films can provide emotional processing, catharsis, and empowerment.

What We Discuss:

• Kendall’s adoption story: A personal look at how Kendall’s DNA found family story ties into themes of trauma, discovery, and healing.
• The link between horror and mental health: How horror can help individuals cope with anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders by creating a controlled environment for confronting fears.
• Horror as a therapeutic tool: Why Dr. Ashley Allen introduces horror to her neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ clients to foster resilience and provide a sense of control over their emotions.
• The inclusive nature of horror conventions: How horror fan communities offer nonjudgmental, safe spaces for those who often feel like outsiders.
• Facing fears through film: Exploring how horror allows both therapists and clients to tackle real-life challenges by building resilience through fictional fear.

Key Takeaways:

• Horror movies can offer a unique therapeutic experience, allowing people to process trauma and gain control over their emotions in a safe way.
• The horror community often serves as an inclusive, accepting space for neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals to connect with others and find empowerment.
• By confronting fictional fears, people can build resilience and emotional strength that helps them tackle real-life challenges.

Quotes from Dr. Ashley Allen:

• "For those with trauma or mood disorders, horror offers a controlled way to confront overwhelming emotions."
• "Horror creates a safe space for fear—perfect for my neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ clients to find empowerment and relief."
• "Even therapists sometimes need an escape; for me, horror provides that in the most cathartic way."

Listen to the Full Episode:

If you’re curious about how horror can unlock new paths to healing, don’t miss this powerful conversation. Tune in to learn how fictional fear can transform into real-life resilience. And be sure to check out more episodes from Horror Heals for similar stories of healing through horror.