From Both Sides Of The Couch with Dr. Laurie Bruce

Episode 49: Personal Responsibility: Are You Driving Your Life or Stuck in the Backseat?

Who’s really driving your life? Are you in control or just along for the ride?
In this empowering episode of From Both Sides of the Couch, Dr. Laurie Bruce—clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach—guides you through a powerful car metaphor to explore self-responsibility, resilience, and personal growth. Each seat in the car represents a level of responsibility, from feeling stuck in the backseat to fully taking the wheel of your own life.
Even when resentment, frustration, or disempowerment creep in, the truth is clear: you have the power to shift gears, take the driver’s seat, and create the life you truly want. This episode will inspire women to embrace clarity, courage, and self-honesty as they navigate challenges and step into their full power.
If you’re ready to move from survival mode to empowerment, this conversation will give you the tools and perspective to start driving your life with confidence and purpose.
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: Personal Responsibility: Are You Driving Your Life or Stuck in the Backseat?
 
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Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
 
#DriverSeatOfLife #TakeTheWheel #OwnYourLife

Episode 48: Sex After 40: Low Libido or Normal? | Dr. Diane Mueller Explains

Did you know that 70% of people want to ask their doctors about sex… but don’t?
Join me, Dr. Laurie Bruce, your clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach, along with Dr. Diane Mueller, a board-certified sexologist, for an open and insightful conversation about sex after 40 and the truth behind what’s often labeled as “low libido.” Is it really a problem or simply a natural change? 
 
In this episode, we’ll unpack the feeling of shame many adults carry around their desires, why safe and honest conversations about sex are so important, and how the medical definition of low libido can be both limiting and misleading. Dr. Diane also shares insights on the link between relationship happiness and sex frequency, the difference between men's and women's desire and arousal, and the deeper root causes behind the lack of interest in sex.
 
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: Sex After 40: Low Libido or Normal? | Dr. Diane Mueller Explains
 
Enjoy this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast platforms and leave a 5-star review!
 
Dr. Diane Mueller is a board-certified sexologist with a deep study in tantric practice, sex coaching, and relationship therapy. She has a double doctorate as a Naturopathic Doctor and Doctor of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine with 15+ years of clinical practice. She is a best-selling author,  the host of The Libido Lounge podcast, and the founder of MyLibidoDoc.com. Her mission? To make conversations about sex feel as natural as chatting over coffee. She’s all about breaking down taboos, empowering women to embrace their desires, and helping them find lasting joy in their bodies and relationships.
 
Follow her socials:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdianemueller/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mylibidodoc/ 
 
Visit her website: https://mylibidodoc.com/ 
 
Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
  
#LowLibido #SexualHealth #MindfulIntimacy

Episode 47: Why Women Cry When Angry (Angry Tears & What You Can Do)

Have you ever been in the middle of a heated argument where you’re feeling angry, but you're working very hard to keep calm… and the next thing you know, you’re crying?
 
Join me, Dr. Laurie Bruce, your clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach, as we unpack why tears sometimes show up not when we’re sad but when we’re angry. Crying when angry is actually common; it’s our body’s release valve. But when it becomes a vicious cycle that makes it worse.
Together, we’ll explore the psychological and biological reasons behind it, why women in particular are more likely to experience this, and practical ways you can handle it.
 
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: Why Women Cry When Angry (Angry Tears & What You Can Do)
 
Enjoy this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast platforms and leave a 5-star review!
 
Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
  
#EmotionalAwareness #CryingWhenAngry #AngerAndTears

Episode 46: Rediscovering Your Purpose

We’ve been the caregivers, the fixers, and the doers, but have you ever paused to ask yourself—Who am I? 
In this episode, we’ll explore how to rediscover your purpose after years of putting everyone else’s needs ahead of your own.
Join me as we talk about why women often lose track of themselves while caring for others. I’ll also share practical steps you can take to reconnect with who you are—starting simply by asking yourself, “What do I want?”
There’s nothing wrong with being a helper, but your whole identity shouldn’t be tied to it. Guilt can arise when we focus on ourselves, yet rediscovering who we are and what aligns with our values is essential for true fulfillment. Let’s take this journey together.
 
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: Rediscovering Your Purpose
 
Enjoy this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast platforms and leave a 5-star review!
 
Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
  
#RediscoverYourself #FindYourPurpose #SelfDiscoveryJourney

Episode 45: Mindfulness for Busy People

What exactly does mindfulness mean? In this episode, we’ll explore the buzzword mindfulness and why it’s such a powerful tool for improving our wellbeing and mental health. And let’s be clear—it’s more than just sitting cross-legged in silence or meditating on a mountain top.
We’ll look at who benefits most from mindfulness, how it can ease chronic pain, and share 3 simple and practical ways you can bring mindfulness into your daily routine, no matter how packed your schedule is.
Mindfulness is about noticing what’s happening in your body, being present, and choosing how you respond. 
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: Mindfulness for Busy People.
 
Enjoy this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast platforms and leave a 5-star review!
 
Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
  
#MindfulnessPractice #MentalHealthAwareness #BePresent

Episode 44: When Therapy Doesn't Work

Have you ever felt like you’ve been in therapy forever, yet it doesn’t seem to be helping anymore? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, we’ll explore why therapy doesn’t always work, the key factors that make therapy more effective, and what you can do if you’re not finding the support you need.
 
Hi friends, Dr. Laurie Bruce here, your clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. Together, we’ll talk about the moments when therapy doesn’t feel helpful and what other steps you can take for your healing and growth. I’ll also share research-backed studies that highlight the 3 patient factors that truly make therapy successful.
 
We’ll uncover why motivation to change increases your chances of progress, why trust in your therapist is essential, and why your belief in the process matters. Remember, healing isn’t linear. You are never too broken—you simply need the right fit and the right support. Keep going!
 
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: When Therapy Doesn't Work
 
Enjoy this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast platforms and leave a 5-star review!
 
Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
  
#MentalHealthAwareness #TherapyTips #HealingIsntLinear  

Episode 43: How To Manage Emotions

Do your emotions ever feel overwhelming, unpredictable, or simply “too much”? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’ll explore how to understand and manage your emotions using a simple but powerful tool—the “emotions thermometer.”
 
Hey friends! I’m Dr. Laurie Bruce, your friendly clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. Together, we’ll learn how to notice your emotional intensity, from calm to highly activated, and choose the right coping strategies that can keep a tough moment from turning into something bigger.
 
I’ll also share practical tools to help your nervous system regulate and strengthen your emotional resilience. Remember, emotions aren’t something to fear—they’re something to work with. So the next time you feel overwhelmed, pause and ask yourself: Where am I on my emotions thermometer? 
 
Listen to this week’s episode of From Both Sides Of The Couch: How to Manage Emotions
 
Enjoy this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast platforms and leave a 5-star review!
 
Dr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise is in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a treatment that combines both traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern Mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and completed a year-long intensive training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. She’s passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to help address trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders and for personal and spiritual development. 
 
Follow her socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauriebruce/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277/ 
 
Visit her website.
Website: https://www.drlauriebruce.com/ 
  
#EmotionalResilience #EmotionsThermometer #RegulateYourEmotions
 

Episode 42: Listening to Your Body: 3 Mindfulness Strategies You Can’t Ignore

Have you ever felt like your body is trying to send you a message, but you just can’t quite understand what it’s saying?
In this episode of From Both Sides of the Couch, Dr. Laurie Bruce explores three simple yet powerful mindfulness strategies you can start practicing today to slow down, tune in, and truly hear what your body is saying.
Dr. Bruce guides listeners in understanding the “love language” of the body—the subtle signals it sends to guide, protect, and heal. She also shares fascinating, research-backed insights from neuroscience on how stress and pain manifest physically, and what you can do to respond with care.
“Our bodies are lifelong companions,” Dr. Bruce reminds us. “They’re always on our side, always working to protect us.” This episode invites listeners to pause, listen deeply, and treat their bodies like the trusted friends they are.
Listen now: From Both Sides of the Couch – Listening to Your Body: 3 Mindfulness Strategies You Can’t Ignore
If you enjoy this episode, follow on your favorite podcast platform and leave a 5-star review.
About Dr. Laurie BruceDr. Laurie Bruce is a clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach who earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2000. Her expertise lies in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a treatment blending traditional cognitive and behavioral strategies with Eastern mindfulness practices. She is also a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist, having completed an intensive year-long training through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. Dr. Bruce is passionate about the safe, legal, and ethical use of psychedelic medicines to address trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and to support personal and spiritual growth.
Follow Dr. Laurie Bruce:
Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555258666969
Instagram: instagram.com/drlauriebruce
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurie-bruce-psy-d-0201277
Website: drlauriebruce.com

Episode 41: Finding Your V.O.I.C.E: A Guide For True Assertiveness for Women

Hi, everyone! Welcome back to "From Both Sides of the Couch" with me, Dr. Laurie Bruce, your friendly but direct, clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach. Today, we're diving into a topic that's crucial for every busy, badass woman I know - assertiveness. It's more than just a buzzword; it's the ability to say what's on your mind respectfully, balancing your needs with those of others. We’ll explore why being assertive is so freaking hard, including research on how boys and girls are treated differently in early childhood. I'll also teach you an acronym called VOICE to show you exactly HOW to be assertive, if you feel like you are starting at square one.
 
Looking for a coach who really understands you? Schedule a free 20 min Discovery Call to discuss your personal and professional goals and we will see if we are a good fit for each other:
https://calendly.com/laurieb922
Connect with me at www.drlauriebruce.com
 

Episode 40: Radical Responsibility: No Blame or Shame Required

Hey friends! In today's episode of From Both Sides of the Couch, we're diving into the delicate dance of taking responsibility for our own lives without getting bogged down by self-blame. 
Join me, Dr. Laurie Bruce, as we explore this mindset shift that opens doors to real change. Learn how to embrace responsibility, not as blame, but as a source of growth and personal agency. These shifts can be the difference between feeling stuck in the past and moving forward with purpose.
And hey, if you're ready to take this journey to the next level, I've got a special invite! I'm looking for a few awesome beta testers for a new group coaching program that's all about building mindfulness, joy, and connection in your everyday life. Want in? Listen through for all the details and let's make some magic happen together!
email: drlaurie@drlauriebruce.com
To join as a beta tester for my Mindful Membership Group Coaching Program, click here:
https://www.drlauriebruce.com/mindfulmembership