Podcast · Devotional & Spiritual

Podcast Therapy with Dr. Z

by Living Lchaim · English · Devotional & Spiritual

"Podcast Therapy with Dr. Z" isn't just another podcast. It's where the Orthodox community opens up about the things we usually keep to ourselves. Hosted by Dr. Shloimie (Steven) Zimmerman, a respected figure and therapist, this call-in show offers a rare space to discuss personal struggles and seek

New episodes: Monthly
Typical length: 51 min
Latest: 1 Sep 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

1 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 5 min

I Look Like a Regular Frum Guy But Inside I'm Falling Apart

In this very honest conversation, Danny looks like a regular Torah guy living a normal life. But underneath, he struggles with anger, harsh self-criticism, and a cycle of shame that leads him to pornography and sexually acting out in search of connection. Dr. Z helps Danny recognize that constantly fighting the darkness inside him may actually be keeping him stuck. Instead, he needs to understand what triggers the negativity, learn how to sit with it without letting it control him, and accept that struggling does not mean he is failing. Danny knows many of the right things to say, but…

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Earlier episodes 22 most recent

E21 · 23 Jun 2026 · 51 min
What Happens When You Stop Saying “If Only”?
In this very relatable episode, we meet Shmuly, a man carrying the weight of beliefs shaped by childhood, financial struggles, and years of comparing himself to others. Growing up with limited means and feeling the pressure to measure up, he came to believe that if only he had more money, more success, or a different life, he would finally be happy. Like so many of us, those stories quietly became the lens through which he viewed himself and the world. Dr. Zimmerman helps Shmuly uncover the deeper beliefs driving his fears and self-doubt, explaining how our upbringing, experiences, and inner…
E20 · 15 May 2026 · 41 min
Why Am I Turning to Unhealthy Escapes?
In this very relatable episode, we meet Rachel, a young woman struggling with feeling unseen, misunderstood, and disconnected at home. With a painful relationship with her mother and a deep sense of loneliness, she turns to unhealthy escapes like talking to boys and engaging in inappropriate behaviors, searching for comfort, validation, and a sense of being wanted. Beneath the acting out is someone carrying real pain and longing to feel loved and understood. Dr. Zimmerman helps Rachel explore what is really driving these behaviors, explaining how unhealthy coping mechanisms can develop when…
E19 · 5 Mar 2026 · 51 min
My Porn Addiction Is Destroying My Marriage. Can I Change?
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses pornography addiction and sexual content. In this very honest conversation, Yaakov opens up about his chronic struggle with pornography addiction and the pain it has caused in every part of his life. Coming from a difficult childhood and becoming a baal teshuva, he shares how the lying, the shame, and the addiction led to separation from his wife and left him feeling disconnected from real Judaism. For Yaakov, watching porn often became the only way he felt soothed, even as it pulled him further from the person he wanted to be. Dr. Z helps him look…
E17 · 7 Jan 2026 · 47 min
My Sister Tried to Kill Herself
In this raw and deeply vulnerable episode of Podcast Therapy, Miriam opens up about the impact of her sibling’s suicide attempt and the quiet pain that followed. While her sibling was hospitalized, Miriam found herself spiraling, feeling unseen, overwhelmed, and pushed to the edge emotionally. Dr. Z helps Miriam explore why vulnerability feels so difficult and what it means to find one safe person she can truly trust. Together, they uncover that healing does not start with having all the answers, but with allowing yourself to be seen, heard, and supported, even when it feels uncomfortable.…
24 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
An Unfiltered Jewish Conversation We’ve Been Avoiding (with Rabbi YY Jacobson)
Rabbi YY Jacobson and Dr. Shloime Zimmerman sit down for a deep, emotional conversation about mental health, Jewish spirituality, authenticity, and trauma in modern life. Together, they explore how disconnection from the self, emotional pain, and spiritual concealment shape the challenges of today’s generation. They discuss how AI (artificial intelligence) is forcing humanity to rediscover what makes us truly human — soul, faith, and connection — and how this technological age parallels Kabbalistic prophecy about the “awakening of divine wisdom.” The conversation dives into antisemitism…
E16 · 24 Nov 2025 · 48 min
One of my kids watched inappropriate content. How do I prevent the others from doing the same?
In this very honest episode, we meet Chaya, a mother trying to navigate the overwhelming challenge of raising teenage boys in a world filled with inappropriate content. After discovering that one of her sons had been exposed to pornography, she opens up about the fear and uncertainty surrounding how to support him, while also worrying about her younger son following a similar path. With different personalities and different needs, knowing how to approach each child feels daunting. Dr. Z helps Chaya face the guilt so many parents carry and reminds her that the goal is not perfection, but…
E15 · 19 Sep 2025 · 53 min
How Can I Live a More Authentic Life ?
In this powerful episode, we meet Chaya, a young woman navigating deep inner conflict. On the outside, she appears to be a devoted religious girl, but privately, she struggles to observe the Torah and mitzvos. Haunted by the trauma of childhood abuse and the grip of an addiction she has worked to overcome, Chaya feels trapped in a double life, torn between how she looks and how she lives. With Dr. Z’s guidance, she begins to confront the pain beneath her struggles and explore what it means to live with honesty and self-compassion. Together, they uncover how embracing her story can open the…
E14 · 10 Aug 2025 · 46 min
I’m Too Hard On Myself. How Can I Stop Being So Self Critical?
In this moving episode, we meet Sarah, who grew up in a complex family environment that deeply influenced her self-perception. Burdened by feelings of toxic shame, Sarah has long grappled with self-criticism and perfectionism, impacting her relationships and sense of self-worth. With Dr. Zimmerman's guidance, Sarah begins to unravel the roots of her inner critic and the fear of embracing her imperfections. Together, they embark on a journey to build self-acceptance, aiming for healing and a more authentic connection with herself and others. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your…
E13 · 21 Jun 2025 · 1 hr 17 min
SPECIAL EPISODE: In Times of War You Are Not Alone. A conversation with Dr. Z and Rabbi Efrem Goldberg.
In this special episode, presented in partnership with Amudim and moderated by Andy Lauber, Rav Efrem Goldberg joins Dr. Zimmerman for a powerful conversation about the emotional and spiritual toll of the ongoing war in Israel. As fear and anxiety weigh heavily on so many, especially those with children or loved ones in Israel, they explore how we can stay grounded without dismissing our very real emotions. Together, they offer a framework for navigating these uncertain times with faith, perspective, and inner strength. Most importantly, they emphasize the importance of finding purpose and…
E11 · 12 Jun 2025 · 53 min
What Happens When I Finally Confront the Parts of Me I’ve Been Hiding?
In this moving episode, we meet Esty, who grew up in a turbulent home marked by conflict and a painful family secret that shaped her sense of self. Carrying deep feelings of toxic shame, Esty has long struggled to be vulnerable, especially within her marriage. Opening up felt unsafe, not just with others, but even with herself. With Dr. Zimmerman’s guidance, Esty begins to uncover the root of her guardedness and the fear that comes with facing her own emotions. Together, they navigate the delicate process of building trust from within, working toward closure, healing, and the hope of a…
E11 · 17 Mar 2025 · 54 min
I Never Feel Good Enough - How Do I Fix That?
In this deeply personal episode, we meet Noach, who grew up feeling like an outsider- never getting into the top classes and struggling with a sense of not being good enough. His journey took on a new layer when his son, a bright and capable student, was denied entry into the top Gemara classes due to learning challenges. This experience reignited feelings of exclusion and self-doubt, leading Noach to confront the broader struggle of feeling unaccepted by society, by God, and even by oneself. Through his story, Dr. Zimmerman explores the universal battle of seeking belonging and the power of…
S1 · E10 · 12 Feb 2025 · 51 min
I Was Sexually Abused as a Child, How Can I Be a Healthy Adult?
In this powerful episode, we meet Rachel, a woman whose early life was marked by the deep scars of sexual abuse inflicted by her brother. Initially drawn to therapy by memories and emerging triggers, it was the collapse of a serious relationship that finally pushed her to confront the wounds of her past. Under the guidance of Dr. Z, Rachel embarks on a transformative journey to acknowledge and confront her trauma, emphasizing the vital importance of disclosure and healing. This episode lays bare the reality that sometimes the enduring effects of trauma can weigh even more heavily than the…
19 Dec 2024 · 50 min
I Felt Unloved as a Child. How Can I Experience Love & Connection Now?
In this powerful episode, we meet Mimi, a woman whose childhood was shaped by the challenges of growing up with a mother who had borderline personality disorder. Mimi shares the profound impact of her upbringing, including feelings of toxic shame, never feeling “enough,” and an inability to experience true love. Dr. Z helps Mimi navigate her pain, leading to a remarkable breakthrough through light and love. This episode offers hope and insight into the power of healing and transformation. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You…
13 Nov 2024 · 1 hr 2 min
My Family Member Is Mentally Ill and “Off The Derech”. How Can I Be Healthy?
In this deeply personal episode, our guest shares her journey of navigating life with a brother who has left the path of religious observance (OTD) and struggles with mental health challenges. She reflects on how his journey impacted her own—shaping her values, her relationships, and ultimately her approach to life and G-d. Dr. Z addresses the guest’s confusion at G-d, offers insights on resilience, and how we can hold space for those closest to us, even when our paths diverge. This episode is a testament to the strength it takes to redefine family and faith amidst life’s uncertainties. To…
6 Oct 2024 · 1 hr 11 min
How Do I Break The Cycle of Trauma?
This episode reflects on the Ten Days of Repentance, featuring Yanky’s journey of healing and repentance. He shares how his trauma led him to behaviors he was deeply ashamed of. Ultimately, Yanky embraced internal work, change, and forgiveness. As Yom Kippur nears, Dr. Z offers insights into healing, moving past our past, and transformation thereby reminding us of our power to break negative cycles, return to our true selves, and bring light to the darkest places. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of…
5 Sep 2024 · 1 hr
I’ve Been Profoundly Hurt by My Parents, Should I Let Them Back Into My Life?
Trigger Warning: This episode deals with emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and suicide. We delve into a harrowing story of abuse and survival. Our guest, who endured physical and emotional abuse from his parents and was molested by a community member, shares his painful journey. Having cut off communication with his parents, he struggles with anger and questions whether confronting them could bring peace. Dr. Z provides profound insights into processing past trauma, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and moving beyond pain. This episode highlights the power of resilience and the…
9 Aug 2024 · 49 min
Why Do I Have Such a Hard Time Taking Care of Myself?
Leah, a busy mother, wife, and full-time employee, calls in to discuss her struggles with self-care. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that Leah's challenges are deeply rooted in her childhood experiences and the immense pressure she places on herself. Doctor Z helps Leah explore the emotional and psychological barriers preventing her from prioritizing self-care, revealing a complex interplay of past traumas, current responsibilities, and internal conflicts. This episode offers a profound look into the hidden obstacles many face in their journey towards self-care and personal…
11 Jul 2024 · 36 min
I’ve Been Betrayed and Traumatized. How Do I Heal?
This episode provides inspiration and insights for anyone facing life's hurdles. Join us for an empowering session of "Therapy" where Chaya (alias and AI-masked voice) shares her journey with Dr. Z. From battling addiction to facing infidelity and ultimately finding strength as a single mom, Chaya's story is one of resilience and growth. Listen as Dr. Z offers advice and guidance, helping Chaya navigate her path. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue":…
28 Jun 2024 · 52 min
How Do I Process The Shocking Tragedy in Lakewood? (SPECIAL EPISODE)
Trigger warning: this episode deals with death and mental illness. Lakewood and the wider Jewish community are reeling from an unthinkable tragedy: a mother had a psychotic break and tragically drowned two of her children. In the face of such profound shock and grief, we are all grappling with how to move forward. Dr. Z addresses the pressing questions we have about this heartbreaking incident and explores broader issues surrounding mental health. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health…
17 May 2024 · 50 min
My Kids Are Struggling with ADHD. Do I Have it Too?
Atara (alias name and Ai masked voice) and 2 of her kids struggle with ADHD. She asks Dr. Z how to navigate it. This episode also explores how we can cope with mental health challenges and help educate our children. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue": https://plinkhq.com/i/1607752110/e/?to=page Reach out to Dr. Z here: Child and Adult Psychological Services, PLLC Email: [email protected] Office: (718) 338-4477 Lchaim.
1 Apr 2024 · 54 min
I’m Addicted to My Phone and It's Out of Control
In each episode, Dr. Shloimie Zimmerman will sit down with a real person to discuss their real challenges. In this episode, the caller brings up his unhealthy technology habits. We explore the source of his issue and possible solutions to help mitigate the issue. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue": https://plinkhq.com/i/1607752110/e/?to=page Reach out to Dr. Z here: Child and Adult Psychological Services, PLLC Email: [email protected] Office:…
1 Apr 2024 · 4 min
What Is Podcast Therapy?
In each episode, Dr. Shloimie (Steven) Zimmerman will sit down with a real person to discuss their real challenges. This is like no other show in the Jewish world and we're excited you can enjoy and learn from it. To be a future guest (yes, we can distort your voice): Please visit LivingLchaim.com/podcasttherapy You can explore the world of mental health with our other show "That's An Issue": https://plinkhq.com/i/1607752110/e/?to=page Lchaim.

About Podcast Therapy with Dr. Z

Podcast Therapy with Dr. Z is a English devotional & spiritual podcast from Living Lchaim. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Living Lchaim
Language: English
Category: Devotional & Spiritual
New episodes: Monthly
Typical length: 51 min
Latest episode: 1 Sep 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1738936552
Rights: Living Lchaim

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