What Your Therapist Isn’t Telling You: How Horror Films Aid in Healing Trauma
Corey and Kendall host Dr. Ashley Allen, a licensed clinical psychologist with a surprising take on horror movies and mental health. Known for her work with neurodivergent LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as her expertise in mood disorders, PTSD, and grief, Ashley has found a unique use for horror as a therapeutic tool.
Growing up in a religious household, Ashley discovered horror at a young age and leaned on it to navigate her own struggles with PTSD, anxiety, and OCD. Now, she shares how horror films provide catharsis and emotional processing, helping her clients—many facing challenges from trauma to borderline personality disorder—to feel a sense of control and resilience. She reveals why horror conventions and fan communities offer an inclusive, nonjudgmental space for those on the neurodivergent spectrum, and how her work as a psychologist allows her to introduce horror as a powerful therapeutic medium.
If you’ve ever wondered how horror films might aid mental health, this episode explores the science, the stigma, and the unexpected support horror can bring. Listen in to learn how to unlock horror's healing potential—no therapy session required!
Topics Covered:
- The surprising link between horror and mental health: coping with PTSD, anxiety, and mood disorders
- Why horror appeals to neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals as a safe space
- Exploring themes of catharsis, trauma, and resilience through horror narratives
- Behind the scenes of horror fan conventions: a psychologist’s take on community and acceptance
- How facing fictional fears helps build real-life resilience in both therapists and their clients
Key Quotes:
- “For those with trauma or mood disorders, horror offers a controlled way to confront overwhelming emotions.”
- “Horror creates a safe space for fear—perfect for my neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ clients to find empowerment and relief.”
- “Even therapists sometimes need an escape; for me, horror provides that in the most cathartic way.”