• What New Fathers Need to Hear: Practical Advice for Dads Starting Out
    Sep 12 2025

    TheraDad is back for Season 2! Join Micah Shapiro, LCSW, PMH-C as he deep-dives on all things parenting and male mental health.

    Becoming a father for the first time is exciting — but it also comes with pressure, uncertainty, and a lot of questions no one prepares you for. In this episode, I explore what new dads really need to know about fatherhood. From handling first-time dad anxiety and balancing responsibilities, to building confidence and strengthening your bond with your baby, you’ll gain practical tips and emotional insights to guide your journey. Whether you’re worried about getting it right, struggling with self-doubt, or simply looking for reassurance that you’re not alone, this episode offers the support and advice every new dad deserves. Tune in and discover how to step into fatherhood with confidence, patience, and purpose.

    #NewDad #FatherhoodTips #DadPodcast #FirstTimeDad #FatherhoodJourney #DadAdvice #ParentingForDads #NewFathers #DadLife

    Visit www.shapiropsych.com to schedule a free intro therapy session.

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    11 mins
  • The Power of the Father-Daughter Relationship
    Jun 20 2025

    Let's explore how fathers shape daughters’ self-esteem, relationships, and emotional health in this deep dive into the father-daughter bond.

    In this heartfelt episode, I explore the unique and deeply influential relationship between fathers and daughters. From early childhood through adulthood, a father's presence—or absence—can shape a daughter's sense of self-worth, confidence, boundaries, and even her future relationships. I'll dive into the psychological and emotional dynamics of this bond and offer insights for dads who want to strengthen their connection with their daughters. Whether you're a father, daughter, or someone curious about family dynamics, this conversation sheds light on how meaningful this relationship can be—and how to nurture it with love, intention, and presence.

    Also, my miniature poodle makes a cameo.

    #FatherDaughter #ParentingPodcast #DadsAndDaughters #FatherhoodMatters #SelfEsteem #AttachmentParenting #GirlDad #EmotionalDevelopment #FatherFigure #HealthyParenting

    Visit me at www.shapiropsych.com or e-mail me at info@shapiropsych.com.

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    14 mins
  • All About Polyvagal Theory
    May 30 2025

    Your nervous system is pretty complex. Let's talk about it.

    Need a therapy appointment? Give me a shout at info@shapiropsych.com.

    www.shapiropsych.com

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    22 mins
  • Things That Start With An 'M'
    May 16 2025

    What do meditation, Mediterranean diets, and mowing the lawn have in common? They all start with "M." Also, they all appear in this episode. Find out why.

    Need to talk? Schedule a free consultation today at https://www.shapiropsych.com/

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    21 mins
  • For Those About To Rock (a diaper change), I Salute You
    May 9 2025

    In this episode, I wax poetic about the power of using hobbies, creative outlets, and personal relationships to manage depressive symptoms. Here's an example of one kick-ass dad sharing a creative outlet with his infant.

    Are you a dude feeling down after becoming a dad? Send me a message. I can help you through it.

    Check out my website, too!

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    18 mins
  • Male Postpartum Depression
    Apr 25 2025

    Did you know dads get postpartum depression, too? In this episode, I outline Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPPD) and how to treat it.

    I also advocate for the passage of HB1806 to regulate the use of AI chatbots in mental health care. If you live in Illinois, here's how to support the bill:

    https://www.votervoice.net/NASWIL/Campaigns/124881/Respond?vvsn=BAAAAAJBBCRfeACJzmf7DAA

    Are you a new dad struggling with postpartum depression? Send me a message at info@shapiropsych.com or visit my website, www.shapiropsych.com.

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    15 mins
  • Put On Your Effing Shoes: How to ACT When Your Kid Won't Listen
    Apr 19 2025

    In this episode I go through the core principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a technique proven to help you detach from difficult feelings, re-center, and do what matters to you. And there's no better time to practice this than when your kid is pissing the crap out of you.

    I also discuss why you shouldn't use online therapy platforms like 7 Cups, Better Help, and Headway.

    Finally, I encourage you to support a bill that would increase reimbursement rates for mental health providers.

    Need a therapy appointment? Visit www.shapiropsych.com or e-mail me.

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    19 mins
  • Anger!!!!
    Apr 10 2025

    What is anger and why is it a problem. Or it is?

    In this episode, I define anger and discuss how to deal with it. I also cite a new article that describes how traditional masculine gender expression puts men at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

    Basically, talking to me could save you a trip to the cardiologist. Just sayin'.

    Speaking of talking to me, here's how to do that.

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    11 mins