On the Mind with The Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Psychiatry

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Jonathan Avery, Vice Chair for Addiction Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, about gambling disorder — a condition that is far more prevalent than most people recognize, yet frequently overlooked and misunderstood. Dr. Avery traces the history of gambling disorder as a diagnosis and explains the neurobiology behind why gambling can become addictive, including how it activates the brain’s reward pathways in ways that parallel substance use disorders. Their conversation explores how the explosive growth of online and sports betting has expanded the reach of problematic gambling, particularly among younger adults. Dr. Avery also discusses the warning signs clinicians and loved ones should watch for, the shame and secrecy that often delay help-seeking, and the full range of evidence-based treatments available, including psychotherapy, 12-step programs, and medications such as naltrexone and GLP-1 agonists. This episode offers a clinically grounded and compassionate look at a disorder that is hiding in plain sight.

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Evelyn Attia, Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and Director of the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Eating Disorders, and Suzanne Straebler, Clinical Director of the Center for Eating Disorders outpatient programs, about the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders. Drawing on deep clinical and research expertise, they trace the history of eating disorders from ancient accounts of self-starvation to their recognition as distinct psychiatric diagnoses and contemporary cultural impact. Their discussion covers what is known about the prevalence of these conditions and the genetic, neurobiological, and sociocultural factors that shape them. Listeners will learn the defining features of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other related diagnoses--with a focus on health disparities across underserved communities, the elevated mortality and suicide risk associated with these illnesses, and the multimodal treatment landscape, spanning medical stabilization, psychopharmacology, and evidence-based psychotherapies. This episode provides a comprehensive, up-to-date guide to eating disorders from two clinicians at the forefront of the field.

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Randy Martin about mental healthcare in the workplace. Together, they explore how employee assistance programs (EAPs) have evolved over the past few decades to meet changing demands through innovation. Their discussion covers how EAPs serve two distinct clients (employees and employers) and the ways they help foster psychological safety, address moral injury, and navigate inherent conflicts of interest. Dr. Martin also discusses his role leading CopeNYP, the internal EAP at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, which is available to thousands of employees across multiple locations. Learn more about Randall Martin, PhD

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Wilfred Farquharson about police involvement during youth mental health crises. Dr. Farquharson describes his research on the factors associated with police bringing children into psychiatry emergency rooms. Their discussion covers the social, psychological, and clinical implications of law enforcement intervention and shares solution-oriented recommendations for helping the families, schools, providers, and children involved in these challenging emergencies. Dr. Farquharson also speaks about his role leading the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Childhood and Adolescent Behavioral Health, which is meeting the challenge of escalating youth mental health needs in the community.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Nili Solomonov about her innovative psychotherapy research and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in mental healthcare. Dr. Solomonov describes how her lab harnesses the computational power of AI to investigate mechanisms underlying effective psychotherapy. Her findings have led to the creation of an evidence-based treatment modality (called Engage and Connect) initially designed for older adults. Their conversation explores how research can expand access to effective psychological treatments, the ways Engage and Connect has been adapted for diverse patient populations, and the complex landscape of AI in mental health, including its significant risks and potential clinical applications.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Katharine Phillips about two distinct but related diagnoses: obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and olfactory reference disorder (ORD), a lesser-known condition characterized by abnormal preoccupation with body odor. Dr. Phillips explains how the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors central to both OCD and ORD can cause profound distress and impairment. She discusses how the two differ in their core features, explains why ORD is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and provides an overview of the effective, evidence-based treatments for both disorders.

In this special episode of On the Mind, the tables are turned as two psychiatry residents, Dr. Phil Martinez and Dr. Jaime Peter, take over the host’s seat to interview Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, Director of Residency Training in Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. Together, they dive into the residency application and selection process from start to finish. Their candid conversation offers valuable tips and a rare, inside perspective from a program director—essential listening for any medical student considering psychiatry.

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Anne McBride, a senior child and adolescent psychiatrist and professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, about the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Drawing on her extensive expertise in psychopharmacology, Dr. McBride walks through the diagnostic process—from behavioral assessments and developmental history to common challenges in distinguishing ADHD from other conditions. They explore evidence-based treatment options, including the nuances of stimulant and non-stimulant medications, as well as behavioral therapy and complementary strategies. This conversation offers a clear, comprehensive overview of ADHD from a clinician with decades of experience.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Diana Diamond about the complex psychology of narcissism. Drawing on her deep expertise in personality disorders, Dr. Diamond explores the continuum from everyday narcissistic traits to pathological narcissism. Their wide-ranging conversation touches on the diagnosis and treatment of narcissistic personality disorder, the impact of narcissistic pathology on attachment and relationships, and whether today’s culture fosters narcissistic tendencies. Tune in for a thought-provoking and timely discussion of a topic that has increasingly captured the public's attention and sparked cultural debate.

Dr. Elizabeth Anne Grill discusses the emotional journey that couples can experience during infertility. She offers invaluable insights on coping strategies that foster emotional resilience when feelings of grief, anger, and despair arise. She also delves into actionable advice for friends, family, and partners to provide the empathic support that is crucial during this time. To schedule with Dr. Elizabeth Anne Grill

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher sits down with Dr. Andrea Temkin-Yu to share essential guidance for parents navigating the adolescent years. Covering several topics from her new book, they explore how to manage screen time, use validation effectively, implement consistent consequences, and help teens weather emotional storms. Tune in for practical, science-backed strategies for supporting your teen’s mental health.

This episode explores bipolar disorder, a core psychiatric condition affecting millions globally. Join Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher and renowned mood disorders expert Dr. James Kocsis as they delve into the complexities of this condition, discuss its spectrum of symptoms, and share insights on effective management approaches.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Drs. Janna Gordon-Elliott and Virginia Mutch to explore the collaborative care model, which integrates behavioral health into primary care practices and other medical settings. This approach has proven to enhance access to mental health services, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient outcomes across diverse populations. Their in-depth conversation delves into the history of collaborative care, its evidence-based benefits, and the challenges associated with its implementation and practice. Listen to learn more about the growing adoption of this model and its promising role in addressing mental health disparities.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Yunyu Xiao to dive deep into the complex factors driving youth suicide. Dr. Xiao shares insights from her groundbreaking research, which highlights how social determinants of health are directly influencing troubling trends in suicide rates among adolescents from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through her analysis of large data sets, Dr. Xiao has uncovered distinct patterns of risk, offering a clearer understanding of the disparities fueling the rise in suicidal behaviors. Tune in to learn how her work can inform more effective public policy and guide the development of targeted interventions to help reverse the growing crisis of youth suicide.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Susan Evans about the benefits of practicing mindfulness. They explore its history and the science supporting the therapeutic benefits of mindfulness-based practices. Dr. Evans shares how mindfulness can be integrated into psychotherapy, emphasizing its role in enhancing emotional regulation, reducing self-critical judgment, and fostering self-awareness. Toward the end of the episode, listeners are invited to participate in a brief, guided meditation led by Dr. Evans, providing an opportunity to experience mindfulness in action. Join us for this enlightening discussion that uncovers the profound impact of mindfulness on mental health and well-being.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher engages in a comprehensive conversation with Dr. Leonardo Lopez about schizophrenia. Together, they explore the historical context of this significant psychiatric disorder, current standards of care, and innovative treatment options on the horizon. Dr. Lopez also discusses the shortcomings of public policy in addressing the needs of those affected by schizophrenia. Listeners will gain valuable insights and a contemporary understanding of this crucial mental health issue that impacts millions worldwide.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher talks with Dr. Jyoti Pathak about the critical role of mental health services research and the innovative use of technology in this field. Dr. Pathak describes how researchers use machine learning and artificial intelligence to identify and understand the factors contributing to disparities in mental healthcare delivery. He shares compelling examples from his work on postpartum depression and the stigma surrounding addiction, demonstrating how advanced tools uncover complex structural problems within our system. Tune in to learn how harnessing technology can lead to targeted solutions for improving access and equity in mental healthcare.

In this special election year episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher engages with Dr. Richard Friedman to explore the psychological toll of contemporary American politics. They discuss how polarization, uncertainty, and political violence contribute to rising levels of stress, anxiety, and depression across different segments of society. Dr. Friedman explains how to differentiate between normal emotional responses to the electoral process and clinically significant mental health issues. He also shares practical tips for managing stress during the election season and offers interpersonal strategies for bridging the political divide. Tune in for a timely conversation that addresses the intersection of mental health and politics.

In this episode of On the Mind, our host and Weill Cornell Medicine General Psychiatry Residency Director, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, meets with two second year residents, Drs. Maya Graves and Nathen Spitz, for an inside look at residency training. They share invaluable insights on the application process, crafting personal statements, and why psychiatry is a rewarding specialty. Hear directly from residents as they discuss the realities of work-life balance during residency, tips for choosing where to apply, and other essential advice for medical students considering a future in psychiatry.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Katharine Phillips about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Dr. Phillips provides a comprehensive overview of BDD, describing how major distortions in self-perception lead to significant impairment and suffering. She explains why this diagnosis is often missed or misunderstood, explores its wide-ranging impact, and identifies effective, evidence-backed treatments designed to help those struggling with BDD. Katharine Phillips, M.D., is internationally known for her expertise in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and related disorders. For over 30 years, Dr. Phillips has conducted ground-breaking scientific research on BDD and has provided expert evaluation and treatment with medication and therapy for people with these conditions. She is currently Professor of Psychiatry, DeWitt Wallace Senior Scholar, and Residency Research Director for the Department of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and Attending Psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.