In an era where mental well-being is increasingly prioritized, podcasts have emerged as a powerful and accessible tool for self-care, education, and support. With nearly one billion people worldwide grappling with mental health challenges, these audio resources provide a convenient way to reduce stress, gain new perspectives, and feel less alone. For those seeking guidance and connection, here are some of the best mental health podcasts, recommended by therapists and mental health professionals, to enhance your mental wellness journey in 2025.
Why Podcasts for Mental Health?
Podcasts offer a unique and engaging way to learn and be entertained, making them a valuable tool for improving mental health. Listening to podcasts can:
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Engaging with interesting content can help divert your thoughts from daily worries and promote relaxation.
- Provide Emotional Support: Hearing personal stories and shared experiences can create a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Increase Self-Awareness: Podcasts can provide insights into your thoughts and emotions, helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself.
- Improve Mental Health Literacy: Listening to experts discuss mental health topics can increase your knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions.
- Reduce Stigma: By normalizing conversations about mental health, podcasts can help reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behavior.
- Offer Coping Strategies: Many podcasts offer practical advice and coping strategies for managing mental health challenges.
- Promote Self-Compassion: Podcasts can help you develop a more compassionate and understanding attitude towards yourself and others.
A study by University College Cork found that listening to mental health podcasts reduces stigma, supports the development of mental health literacy, and increases help-seeking. Participants in the study indicated that mental health-related podcasts helped them to develop a sense of connection to others, through learning that experiencing mental health issues is “normal”.
Top Mental Health Podcasts Recommended by Therapists
Here’s a curated list of podcasts, favored by therapists, offering diverse perspectives and approaches to mental well-being:
1. The Mental Illness Happy Hour
Hosted by Paul Gilmartin, this podcast features candid conversations with guests about their experiences with mental health, trauma, and substance use. Gilmartin’s self-deprecating humor and authentic approach create a welcoming space for vulnerability and honesty. The podcast aims to provide a “waiting room that doesn’t suck,” offering comfort and connection to those who feel alone in their struggles.
2. Therapy Chat
Hosted by psychotherapist Laura Reagan, LCSW-C, Therapy Chat offers in-depth discussions on a wide range of mental health topics. Featuring interviews with mental health experts, this podcast provides fresh perspectives and emotionally resonant discussions on various mental health conditions and alternative psychotherapy techniques.
3. Getting Better: Stories of Mental Health
Hosted by licensed therapists Micheline Maalouf and Nadia Adesi, Getting Better aims to destigmatize mental health through impactful conversations with special guests. The hosts recognize that mental health is a journey of acceptance and offer support along the way.
4. The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
Hosted by Robert Duff, a psychologist, this podcast delivers practical and evidence-based advice on a variety of mental health topics. Duff’s approachable style and humorous delivery make complex concepts easy to understand and apply to daily life.
5. Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel
Couples therapist Esther Perel hosts this podcast, showcasing real therapy sessions with anonymous couples. Where Should We Begin? offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of relationships and provides insights into common challenges and effective communication strategies.
6. The Happiness Lab
Based on the popular Yale University course, The Happiness Lab, hosted by Dr. Laurie Santos, explores the science of happiness and provides practical tips for improving your well-being. Drawing on research in psychology and neuroscience, this podcast offers evidence-based strategies for cultivating happiness in everyday life.
7. Inside Mental Health
Hosted by Gabe Howard, with expert analysis from Dr. Nicole Washington, a board-certified psychiatrist, Inside Mental Health offers insightful discussions on various mental health conditions and treatments. The podcast aims to provide accurate and accessible information to help listeners understand and manage their mental health.
8. Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris
Hosted by news anchor Dan Harris, Ten Percent Happier explores the topic of meditation and mindfulness. Harris interviews leading experts and shares his own experiences with meditation, offering practical guidance for incorporating mindfulness into daily life.
9. The Savvy Psychologist’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Mental Health
Hosted by Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist, this podcast offers quick and practical tips for improving your mental health. From managing anxiety to building better relationships, The Savvy Psychologist provides evidence-based advice in an accessible and engaging format.
10. Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide
Hosted by Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy, both licensed marriage and family therapists, The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide offers information from the perspective of seasoned mental health professionals looking to enhance their practice and broaden their knowledge.
11. The Practice of the Practice
Hosted by Joe Sanok, an experienced counselor and business consultant, The Practice of the Practice is a valuable resource that provides critical insight into running a successful private practice.
12. Therapy Show
Created by Dr. Bridget Nash, DSW, LCSW, Therapy Show aims to make mental health treatment accessible and understandable through interviews with leading industry experts who share the effective approaches they use in their practice and discuss how those approaches influence therapy modalities.
13. Terrible, Thanks For Asking
Hosted by Nora McInerny, Terrible, Thanks For Asking encourages honest conversations about difficult emotions and experiences. McInerny interviews guests about their struggles with grief, loss, and other challenges, creating a space for vulnerability and connection.
14. Latinx Therapy
Hosted by Adriana Alejandre, LMFT, Latinx Therapy focuses on mental health topics relevant to the Latinx community. The podcast addresses cultural issues, provides resources, and promotes mental wellness within the Latinx community.
15. The Mindful Muslim
Hosted by Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi, The Mindful Muslim explores mental health from an Islamic perspective. The podcast offers guidance on mindfulness, self-compassion, and spiritual well-being for Muslims.
16. A Bit of Optimism
Hosted by Simon Sinek, A Bit of Optimism discusses leadership and teamwork to help listeners to learn how to better inspire others.
17. Happy Place
Hosted by Fearne Cotton, Happy Place interviews a wide range of people about mental health and wellness, with previous guests including Hilary Clinton and Boy George.
Considerations When Choosing a Podcast
While podcasts can be a valuable resource for mental health support, it’s essential to choose them carefully and consider the following:
- Credibility: Look for podcasts hosted by licensed therapists, psychologists, or other qualified mental health professionals.
- Content: Choose podcasts that align with your specific needs and interests. Consider the topics covered, the host’s approach, and the overall tone of the podcast.
- Ethical Practices: Ensure that the podcasters are not engaging in erroneous advice.
Disclaimer: Podcasts are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are struggling with a mental health condition, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
By incorporating these therapist-recommended podcasts into your routine, you can proactively nurture your mental well-being and gain valuable insights into yourself and the world around you.
