Why Do People Do That?

Stacy and Heather chat with Renee Haber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in treating PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections). PANS/PANDAS is a neuroimmune condition where infections in the body can trigger sudden, severe psychiatric symptoms—often misdiagnosed as anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mental health disorders. Renee explains how she works therapeutically with children and families while guiding them to the right physicians for accurate screening and treatment, what parents, educators, and clinicians need to look for, and why early recognition is essential for positive outcomes. If you or someone you know has ever faced a sudden onset of mental health symptoms that didn’t quite add up, this conversation could provide the missing piece. Contact Renee Haber, LCSW and learn about her foundation: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/renee-haber-merrick-ny/306435 More info and resources : https://pandasnetwork.org/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com

In this episode, we explore why artificial intelligence, no matter how advanced, can never replicate the transformative power of human therapy. While AI offers quick validation and instant responses, therapy is far more than problem-solving — it’s a nuanced process rooted in trust, transference, and the healing relationship between client and clinician. We discuss how true therapeutic growth comes from the corrective emotional experiences only a trained therapist can provide. Unlike AI, therapists navigate the complexities of human emotions, guide clients through deeper exploration, and foster lasting repair that technology simply cannot replicate. Join us as we unpack the risks of relying on AI for mental health support, the dangers of reducing complex human struggles into simplistic solutions, and why the human connection at the heart of therapy remains irreplaceable. AI might give an instant simplistic response, but it cannot heal. Disclaimer: When discussing cases, Stacy and Heather will change details around to hide identities of patients so it is not possible to detect who they are discussing, keeping things vague and partially fiction for privacy compliance. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com

In this episode, we journey to a galaxy far, far away to explore the very real psychology behind fandom. Using Star Wars as our launchpad, we dive into the emotional draw of expansive fictional universes and why they resonate so deeply with us. From analyzing iconic characters to unpacking the societal nuances reflected in their stories, we ask the timeless question: why do people do that? Our guest, Kristine McPartlin — host of @MindtheForce , a podcast dedicated to examining mental health through the lens of Star Wars—joins us for a thoughtful conversation on how fiction mirrors reality. Together, we explore how connecting with characters helps us connect with ourselves and each other, and why fandom isn’t just escapism — it’s a way of exploring humanity. Whether you're a lifelong Star Wars fan or simply curious about the power of storytelling, this episode invites you to look deeper into the stories we love—and what they reveal about us. Check out "Mind The Force" podcast with Kristine at this link here - https://www.mindtheforce.com/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast

In this powerful and timely episode, I sit down with Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin to discuss the critical importance of the upcoming local elections and the often-overlooked role local government plays in shaping our daily lives. But the conversation goes much deeper than politics—we explore the current political climate and the growing divide across the country. Rebecca brings thoughtful insights into what’s fueling this polarization, from cognitive dissonance and fear to the breakdown of meaningful communication. Together, we unpack how individual citizens can take small but impactful steps toward bridging the divide, fostering unity, and building a more harmonious society. We dive into the tough questions: How do we have unifying conversations in such a tense environment? What does it take to truly listen to — and understand — those we may not agree with? And how can we find common ground without compromising our values? Whether you're politically active or just trying to make sense of the world around you, this episode offers a refreshing, hopeful, and grounded perspective on how we move forward — together. https://www.rebeccasanin.com/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com

In this deeply insightful and honest conversation, I sat down with licensed sex therapist Heather Simonson, LCSW, CST, CSE, ERYT, RPYT (Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sexuality Educator, Reiki Master, and Registered Yoga Teacher (specializing in kids and pre/postnatal) to explore some of the most vulnerable and often unspoken challenges couples face around intimacy. We dive into what happens when partners have mismatched libidos, how self-esteem and body image shape our sexual experiences, and why desire often fades after having children. We also unpack the layers of shame tied to sexuality—especially for women—and the societal conditioning that makes it hard for many to express what they truly want. From infidelity to the importance of safety in asking for what you need, we cover the complex emotional terrain of modern relationships and sexuality. Whether you're in a long-term relationship, navigating post-baby intimacy, or just curious about how to better understand your own desires, this episode offers real talk, compassionate insights, and practical wisdom. Heather's contact info: seachangehwc.com Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com

In this episode, we dive into the world of Reddit’s Am I the A**hole?—not to pass judgment, but to unpack the deeper emotional layers behind a few standout posts. As licensed therapists, we explore why people turn to the internet for validation, what their stories reveal about human behavior, and why things are rarely as black and white as they seem. Spoiler: Even when someone seems like the a**hole, there’s usually a lot more going on! Let’s talk about nuance, empathy, and the messy beauty of being human. Everyone has a story, and no one is ever “just an a-hole!” Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com

Social workers are the backbone of countless communities, showing up in hospitals, schools, courtrooms, shelters, and beyond—wherever there is need, there we are. In this special episode, we celebrate the vast and vital profession of social work by speaking with dedicated professionals from across the country. From child welfare to hospice care, from policy advocacy to crisis intervention, we explore the many ways social workers create change, provide support, and uplift lives.We’ll also take a journey through the history of social work, reflecting on its roots and evolution, and honoring the legacy of those who paved the way. As Margaret Mead so powerfully said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Bios of our amazing guests: Michelle Baeza, LMSW, has been working in the field of mental health for 16 years. She received her bachelor's in sociology from the University of Tennessee in 2008 and took some time off school to gain some experience in the field. She returned for graduate school at the University of Tennessee College of Social Work in 2012 and graduated in 2015 with her MSSW. While in graduate school, she was the president of Phi Alpha, the College of Social Work National Honor Society. After graduating, she received her LMSW in August of 2015. For the first 7 years of her career, she worked in the mental health field. She then transitioned to working with individuals that have intellectual and developmental disabilities along with a mental health disorder; she has been working in that specialty for the past 9 years. In this time, she has been working to help with the development and expansion of programs specific to working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in multiple states. Along with the development, there has been work to help to educate the community about the gaps in care and awareness of the need for services. In the past 9 years, Michelle has worked alongside the state as well as the Medicaid providers for ongoing collaboration in the development of different levels of care and identifying ongoing needs in the communities. Elizabeth Eckhardt, PhD. In addition to being Director of the Nassau County Bar Association's Lawyer Assistance Program, Dr. Elizabeth Eckhardt has had a private psychotherapy practice for 30 years. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/elizabeth-eckhardt-east-northport-ny/363928 https://www.nassaubar.org/lawyer-assistance-program/ Pamela Lowell, MSW, LICSW, has treated complex emotional trauma for almost four decades. She has served as a clinical director, consultant, and trainer for minority-operated not-for-profit agencies. She is an avid birder, watercolor artist, and award-winning author. After a kayak trip to a local osprey estuary in 2022, she began painting large watercolors of those raptors, their nests, and platforms and donating them to local nature organizations. This experience culminated with her writing My Summer with Ospreys: A Therapist’s Journey toward Hope, Community, and Healing our Planet,” complete with her original watercolor sketches. Her website is http://www.pamelalowell.com and Instagram is @palwrites. Mike Crum is a former Marine with a bachelor's and master's in social work and near completion of his doctorate in social work. For the last 10 years, Mike has worked in suicide prevention at a community and macro level, educating about the needs of service members and veterans. Mike's work within the Army National Guard has led to training thousands of soldiers in resilience and suicide prevention and education. Mike currently works to address protective and risk factors for the Army National Guard and informs leadership how to curb trends on topics like suicide, domestic violence, sexual assault, abuse, and neglect. Mike currently lives in Florida, where he enjoys the sunshine and beach! People can connect with me

Wouldn't it be great if we could actually harness happiness just from changing the way we think? Well... we actually can. There is science-based research that explains how shifting our mindset into a place of gratitude manipulates the neurotransmitters in our brains, creates new neural pathways, reduces stress hormones and creates a cognitive restructuring of how our mind works. That's right! Simply ( we know this may not feel simple) by changing our inner headlines, we do have the power to live happier and more fulfilled lives. We know this is not as easy as it sounds. There can be hurdles in the way, and this can even feel invalidating if you are going through something hard. Please join us as we get into the details of just how this all works and how to practice gratitude even in times of darkness. Let's move into gratitude together and reduce the stress, anxiety, and depression that we may be facing in our lives. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhyDoPeopleDoThat Visit our website: https://whydopeopledothat.com/ If you'd like to contact Stacy and Heather or learn more about their practices, visit the following sites: Long Island Counseling Services - www.longislandcounselingservices.com District Support Services - www.districtsupportservices.com ADHD Training Center - www.adhdtrainingcenter.com Follow the "Why Do People Do That?" Podcast on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whydopeopledothatpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569908326130 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whydopeopledothatpodcast This episode was produced at Press Record Studios in NYC: www.pressrecordstudios.com