Parasocial relationships are often viewed negatively, but they can play a big role in mental health and should be talked about in therapy. These one-sided emotional bonds with media figures—like celebrities or influencers—can provide comfort and connection but also bring feelings of shame due to social stigma. Therapy offers a safe space to explore the impact of parasocial relationships, reducing internalized shame and helping people better understand their emotions.

Karley White (She/Her), an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist (#118863) at Gather and Grow OC, helps clients uncover their unique life stories and find inner balance. Under the supervision of Jacqueline Plante, Director (CA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #91084), she uses humor and integrates clients’ passions into therapy. Karley is committed to LGBTQ+-affirming, sex-positive, kink-positive, antiracist, and anti-ableist care. For a compassionate guide through your unique journey, REACH OUT to Karley today.

Karley explores the benefits of shadow work and how games can help you tackle your inner shadows, navigate emotional challenges, and come out of the experience with a whole new level of self-awareness.

Here’s a very special Spoooooky Edition of ‘3 Video Games That Will Make You Feel Things’ for you to enjoy!

We’re back with Karley’s popular series, Video Games That Will Make You Feel Things! Here Karley dives into three popular games, Firewatch, Life is Strange, and Eliza.

Karley is back with three more video games that incorporate mental health themes. Learn more about Neo Cab, Tell Me Why, and As Dusk Falls and the various themes it touches upon…