Doorknob Comments

Dr. Fara White & Dr. Grant Brenner

Doorknob Comments was named for a phenomenon that sometimes happens at the end of a therapy session, when the patient may mention something important and riddled with conflict, right as you’re walking out the door. Equal parts frustrating and enlightening, it surfaces key issues which may--or may not!-- get addressed anytime soon.

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June 3 · 1 hr 6 min
The Clinical Effectiveness of Psychoanalysis Today: Freud's Living Legacy, Neuroscience, and the Brain with Dr. Mark Solms #91
In this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Professor Mark Solms, a psychoanalyst, neuropsychologist, and pioneering figure in neuropsychoanalysis. Professor Solms discusses his new book, The Only Cure: Freud and the Neuroscience of Mental Healing, and explores what it means to translate Freud from the language of early psychoanalysis into the language of contemporary neuroscience. He brings a critical scientific perspective to psychoanalysis while asking what psychoanalysis can still offer modern psychiatry and brain science. Listeners will learn about Freud’s pioneering work in neuroscience, and what inspired his shift toward psychological methods for understanding mental and brain function. The conversation explores why subjectivity matters, how feelings and emotional drives shape behavior, and how functionalist approaches to the mind can bridge psychoanalysis, neuropsychiatry, and contemporary neuroscience. They also discuss TMS, deep brain stimulation, neuroplasticity, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and the need for an integrated psychiatry that takes biology, psychology, and lived experience seriously. We hope you enjoy it. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Mark Solms https://x.com/Mark_Solms https://npsa-association.org/ Preorder The Only Cure at https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Mark-Solms/253231176 Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
March 26 · 50 min
Why You Can't "Just Do It": The Intention-Action Gap with Dr. Tom Froese #90
Have you ever wondered about the relationship between your brain and your mind? How does that wrinkled, gel-like matter in our head dictate our understanding of ourselves and the world? On today’s episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara are joined by Dr. Tom Froese, a cognitive scientist at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) who researches the origin and nature of the human mind by integrating philosophy of mind, computational modeling, and human subjects research. The conversation centers on what Froese calls the intention-action gap: the stubborn fact that knowing what we want to do and actually doing it are never the same thing. Why can't we simply force our bodies to comply with our intentions? And what does this mean for how long real change actually takes? Together, they explore frustration tolerance, boredom, and the role of friction in psychological development, landing on a key therapeutic insight: sitting with uncertainty rather than demanding immediate resolution. We hope you enjoy! Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Tom Froese Consciousness may be more than the brain’s output — it may be an input, too https://loc.closertotruth.com/theory/froese-s-irruption-theory https://www.oist.jp/research/research-units/ecsu/tom-froese Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
February 5 · 48 min
When Psychiatry Meets the Immune System with Dr. Tom Pollak
In this episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara chat with Dr. Tom Pollak about the complex relationship between the immune system, the brain, and mental illness. Dr. Pollak is a NIHR Clinical Lecturer at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King’s College London and a specialty trainee general adult psychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust with a specialist interest in neuropsychiatry. Listeners will learn how doctors distinguish true autoimmune brain disorders from primary psychiatric conditions, why tests like spinal fluid analysis are complicated but sometimes crucial, and how both “it’s all psychological” and “it’s all biological” explanations can miss the bigger picture. Their conversation offers a nuanced look at how mind, brain, body, and environment interact, and why good psychiatric care requires holding all of those pieces together. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Tom Pollak https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/thomas-pollak https://drtompollak.substack.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Nov 17, 2025 · 47 min
A Conversation with Dr. Siddharth Shah on Well-being, Resilience, and his Personal Journey
On today’s episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Siddharth Shah, the Founder and President of Greenleaf Integrative. Dr. Shah is a preventive medicine physician whose path into medicine wound through the humanities, a year traveling in India, and early work in interfaith dialogue and social justice. Siddharth talks about how he found his way into psychiatry after leaving medical school twice, the mentors who shaped his approach, and why he sees agency, curiosity, and small wins as central to healing. He also reflects on the challenges of working in a world full of injustice and how practices of rest and embodied presence help sustain both clinicians and the communities they serve. We hope you enjoy it. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Siddharth Shah Dr. Shah Guided Meditations Greenleaf Integrative Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Aug 10, 2025 · 41 min
Rupture and Repair with Dr. Soe Thein
In today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara are joined by Dr. Soe Thein, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and the founder of the Good Enough Psychiatrist YouTube channel. On his channel, Dr. Thein creates animated videos that explain psychodynamic therapy concepts for a general audience and has won numerous awards for his work. Together, they discuss moments of rupture that can occur in relationships and the importance of repair. They emphasize that occasional ruptures are a normal part of any healthy relationship; what truly matters is how the individuals involved address these breaks and work together to mend what has been damaged. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Soe Thein https://downtownpsychiatry.com/about-soe-thein-md Good Enough Psychiatrist YouTube Channel Why Conflicts Make Relationships Stronger - Video Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Jul 21, 2025 · 47 min
Suicide Prevention with Dr. Igor Galynker
On today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Igor Galynker, a psychiatrist, clinician, and researcher known for his work in bipolar disorder, suicide prevention, and the role of family dynamics in psychiatric illness, who currently serves as the Associate Chairman for Research in the department of psychiatry at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. Dr. Galynker talks about how he got interested in exploring suicide prevention, the signs that typically appear before someone commits suicide, and how therapists can better attune themselves to these markers. We hope you enjoy. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, please seek help immediately by contacting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, visiting the nearest emergency department, or calling 911. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Igor Galynker https://profiles.mountsinai.org/igor-galynker https://labs.icahn.mssm.edu/galynkerlab/ https://www.bpfamily.org/about-2 Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Jun 17, 2025 · 44 min
Organizational Psychiatry with Dr. Daven Morrison
On today’s episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Dr. Daven Morrison, a psychiatrist with deep expertise in organizational and occupational psychiatry. A member of the Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry and an officer of the Academy of Organizational and Occupational Psychiatry, Dr. Morrison shares insights into the psychological dimensions of workplace life. From managing mergers and downsizing to fostering self-aware leadership, he walks us through the core principles of organizational psychiatry. We hope you enjoy! Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Daven Morrison https://www.ourgap.org/committees/work-organizations https://www.morrisonltd.com/about-us/daven-morrison-m-d https://www.aoop.org/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/ If you like our podcast, please leave a review! Thanks in advance!
May 26, 2025 · 33 min
Looking at Art with Kate Werble
In today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Kate Werble, a longtime friend of Fara's and founder of her own New York City art gallery. They talk about the intimidating world of contemporary art, breaking down the mystique of the gallery scene and offering practical advice on how to begin engaging with galleries. Kate emphasizes that looking at art is a skill developed over time, encouraging curiosity over expertise for newcomers interested in learning how to engage with art. Finally, they talk about what art is ultimately about and what it offers psychologically. We hope you enjoy it. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Kate Werble https://www.katewerblegallery.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kate_werble_gallery/?hl=en Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Apr 20, 2025 · 55 min
Bringing Clarity to Psychiatric Chaos
In today’s episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara sit down with Dr. Glenn Saxe to discuss the development and impact of Trauma Systems Therapy (TST), a model that addresses both emotional regulation in traumatized children and the complexities of their social environments. Dr. Saxe highlights how TST’s open-source approach has allowed practitioners worldwide to innovate and adapt the model for diverse settings, from child welfare to refugee care. The conversation explores the importance of honoring intergenerational wisdom while adapting to new challenges like cyberbullying and the digital age. They also touch on the promise of causal data science to advance psychiatric research and the need to embrace complexity rather than oversimplify mental health solutions. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Glenn Saxe https://med.nyu.edu/faculty/glenn-saxe https://med.nyu.edu/departments-institutes/child-adolescent-psychiatry/trauma-systems-therapy-training-center Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/ If you like our podcast, please leave a review! Thanks in advance!
Mar 24, 2025 · 52 min
Engineering Body and Mind with Michael Levin
On today's episode of Doorknob Comments Fara and Grant are joined by Dr. Michael Levin, the Vannevar Bush Distinguished Professor of Biology and the Director of the Allen Discovery Center at Tufts University. Dr. Levin publishes across developmental biology, computer science, bioengineering, and philosophy of mind, with work spanning from fundamental conceptual frameworks, to applications in birth defects, regeneration, and cancer. Fara and Grant discuss Dr. Levin's groundbreaking research, how he came to his research interests, and the potential linkages or applications his research might have for the future of therapeutic care. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Michael Levin https://thoughtforms.life/ https://drmichaellevin.org/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
S2 · E40
Mar 3, 2025 · 42 min
Embracing Your Many Sides for Growth & Productivity
On this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant focus on why people often struggle to do things that are good for them while continuing habits that might be harmful. They discuss the concept of multiple self-states or personality parts that can sometimes conflict with each other, leading to procrastination, guilt, and difficulty in enjoying leisure activities. The conversation touches on topics such as the challenges of balancing productivity with self-care, the role of brain activity in procrastination, and the importance of self-reflection in understanding one's own motivations and behaviors. Throughout the episode, Fara and Grant draw on psychoanalytic theories, personal experiences, and clinical observations to offer insights into how individuals can better navigate their internal conflicts and make more constructive choices. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Feb 10, 2025 · 32 min
Valentine's Day Episode: Relationships, trauma and psychotherapy with Dr. Erica Krakovitz
On today's episode of Doorknob Comments, Grant and Fara sit down with Erica Krakovitz, a clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist, to explore the complexities of relationships, self-trust, and emotional healing. They dive into the patterns that keep people stuck in toxic dynamics, the role of intuition in recognizing red flags, and how different therapeutic approaches—like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR—can help people rebuild their sense of self. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak, questioning your relationship, or simply curious about how therapy works, this conversation sheds light on the deep psychological forces that shape our connections with others. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Erica Krakovitz https://www.drkrakovitz.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drericakrakovitz/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Jan 18, 2025 · 44 min
Would You Rather Have An AI or a Human Therapist?
On this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Professor Nir Eisikovits, a philosopher and the founding director of the Applied Ethics Center at UMass Boston. They delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence, ethics, and psychotherapy, exploring how AI technologies can impact therapeutic practices. The discussion highlights the growing loneliness crisis and the potential role of chatbots in providing accessible mental health support, while also addressing the ethical implications and potential hazards of automating therapy. Professor Eisikovits shares insights from his research on the moral dilemmas surrounding technology and war, questioning whether AI can genuinely replicate human empathy and emotional connections in therapeutic settings. The episode raises critical questions about the future of psychotherapy in an age increasingly influenced by AI advancements. We hope you enjoy it! Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Nir Eisikovits https://www.umb.edu/directory/nireisikovits/ https://prostheticgods.podbean.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Dec 27, 2024 · 1 hr 3 min
Neuropsychoanalysis, Revisiting Freud, and Living Well: A Conversation with Dr. Mark Solms
In this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Mark Solms, a renowned neuropsychologist and psychoanalyst. Dr. Solms discusses his groundbreaking work in neuropsychoanalysis, which bridges the gap between neuroscience and psychoanalysis. He shares insights from his 30-year project of retranslating Freud's complete works, including previously untranslated neuroscientific papers, revealing how this process has deepened our understanding of Freud's ideas. The conversation explores the fundamental role of emotions and consciousness in brain function, the importance of understanding subjective experience in mental health, and the potential future of artificial consciousness. Dr. Solms also touches on the relevance of Freud's work in modern neuroscience and psychotherapy, offering valuable perspectives for both professionals and those undergoing psychotherapy We hope you enjoy it. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Mark Solms https://x.com/Mark_Solms Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Dec 9, 2024 · 52 min
Navigating Education Challenges with Sharon Thomas
In this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant Brenner are joined by Sharon Thomas, the founder and CEO of MAIA Education Resource Center. Sharon is a child development and learning specialist with expertise in one-on-one academic interventions and school and college placement. With over two decades of experience, she shares her insights on school placement, learning challenges, and the crucial role of executive function skills in achieving academic success. Sharon discusses the delicate balance between schools, parents, and students, providing valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of the education system from kindergarten through college. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Sharon Thomas https://www.maiaeducation.com/ info@maiaeducation.com 212-426-3742 Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Nov 25, 2024 · 43 min
Overcoming Insurance Obstacles with Joe Feldman #76
In this episode, Grant and Fara are joined by Joe Feldman, the president and founder of Cover My Mental Health, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping patients and their families secure proper insurance coverage for mental health services. Joe began advocating for access to mental healthcare after facing challenges related to insurance denials for his daughter’s residential care. During the conversation, Grant and Fara discuss these obstacles with Joe and explore the role that Cover My Mental Health plays in helping everyday people access the mental healthcare they need. Be sure to check the links in the show notes for more information and resources! We hope you find it enjoyable. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Joe Feldman https://covermymentalhealth.org/ Joe's Email: joe@covermymentalhealth.com Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/ Other Resources https://www.nami.org/support-education/publications-reports/survey-reports/the-2024-nami-workplace-mental-health-poll/ https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/write-effective-letters-of-medical-necessity https://www.thekennedyforum.org/blog/10-steps-to-securing-insurance-coverage-for-mental-health-care/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/experimentations/202410/getting-insurance-to-cover-mental-health https://covermymentalhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Medical-necessity-letter_best-practices-2024-11.pdf https://journals.lww.com/practicalpsychiatry/fulltext/2021/07000/providing_a_routine_medical_necessity_letter_to.7.aspx
Nov 4, 2024 · 51 min
Navigating Adult ADHD with Dr. Scott Shapiro
In this episode, Grant and Fata are joined by Dr. Scott Shapiro. Dr. Scott Shapiro, a leading expert in Adult ADHD trained at Harvard Medical School, provides specialized care in New York City, combining psychopharmacology, medical psychiatry, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He also is a Corporate Executive Coach, helping professionals enhance their performance, productivity, and communication skills. Dr. Shapiro shares his expertise as a specialist in Adult ADHD, its treatment, and practical strategies to help individuals overcome their challenges. We hope you enjoy. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Scott Shapiro https://www.scottshapiromd.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
S2 · E33
Oct 8, 2024 · 51 min
Insight and Mental Health
In this episode, Grant and Fara delve into the topic of insight. They discuss its meaning, the benefits of having insight, and the various ways in which insight can be lacking. They also explore strategies for enhancing one's insight into their mental health and the role of therapy in encouraging patients to critically engage with their mental illness. We hope you find it enjoyable. Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
Sep 24, 2024 · 58 min
The Challenges of Modern Parenting with Angie Tekriwal
In this episode of Doorknob Comments Grant and Fara are joined by Angie Tekriwal, owner of Silver Lining Counseling LLC and counselor specializing in treating adolescents, young adults, and families at her private practice in Montclair, New Jersey. Angie is also a mother and a good friend of Fara. They talk about the impact of media consumption on kids, inside scoop on the mom experience, and a range of other subjects. We hope you enjoy it! Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Angie Tekriwal https://www.angietekriwal.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/
S2 · E31
Aug 19, 2024 · 40 min
Inside Out 2: Anxiety and Insecurity
In this episode, Grant and Fara dive into the animated film Inside Out 2, exploring its creative depiction of emotions and the educational value it offers. They begin by providing a synopsis of the film, followed by an in-depth discussion on how emotions like anxiety and sadness play a crucial role in the protagonist Riley’s conflicts and emotional growth. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of emotional frameworks in the film and how they reflect real-life therapeutic approaches. As always, they wrap up with some thoughtful closing remarks and doorknob comments. We hope you enjoy it. In This Episode [0:00] Introduction [1:20] Episode Overview [2:00] Synopsis of Inside Out 2 [5:00] Exploring Emotional Representation and Educational Themes [12:40] Anxiety's Impact on Riley's Journey [15:40] Anxiety as a Manifestation of Insecurity [19:00] Sadness and Emotional Integration [21:00] Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Depicted in the Film [23:00] Which Emotion Takes the Lead? [29:20] Navigating Social Challenges and Stereotypes in Adolescence [33:10] Linking Gendered Social Dynamics Back to Childhood [36:15] Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks Resources and Links Doorknob Comments https://www.doorknobcomments.com/ Dr. Fara White https://www.farawhitemd.com/ Dr. Grant Brenner https://www.granthbrennermd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-h-brenner-md-dfapa/

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