A Psychiatrist Breaks Down Medication, Therapy & Real Healing [Dr. Eric Bender]

What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist — and how do you know which one you need? In this episode of Ask Kati Anything, licensed therapist Kati Morton sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Eric Bender to explore psychiatry vs therapy, medication stigma, antidepressant withdrawal, and how to know when it’s time to seek help.

Dr. Bender shares his journey from teaching and social work into psychiatry, what it’s really like to balance prescribing with therapy, and how he helps patients navigate shame, fear, and medication side effects. We also dive into borderline personality disorder, genetic testing, and the art of tailoring treatment to each individual. Plus — his fascinating work consulting on Batman and other characters for media projects.

This conversation is honest, practical, and full of insights to help you better understand yourself and your mental health journey.

Timestamps (Ask Kati Anything ep. 277)
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Dr. Eric Bender
00:17 – Psychiatry vs. Psychology: What’s the Difference?
02:09 – Dr. Bender’s Unconventional Path to Becoming a Psychiatrist
07:10 – Working with Children & Parents in Therapy
09:01 – Why He Still Does Therapy (Not Just Medication)
13:16 – Conversations Around Medication & Stigma
17:18 – Antidepressant Withdrawal & Side Effects Explained
23:36 – Treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
29:48 – Therapy, Medication & Insurance Challenges
35:13 – Should You See a Psychiatrist or a Therapist?
43:47 – Offering Hope & Knowing When to Seek Help
47:31 – Psychiatry Meets Pop Culture: Consulting on Batman & Media
52:14 – How Media Shapes Mental Health Stigma
53:04 – Closing Thoughts

My New Book (Pre-Order)
Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ

If you’ve ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I’d be so grateful for your support.

Other Books
Traumatized → https://geni.us/Bfak0j
Are u ok? → https://geni.us/sva4iUY

Connect with Dr. Eric Bender
YouTube:    / @dr.ericbender  
Website: http://www.doctorericbender.com/

Kati’s Main YouTube Channel
   / katimorton  

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Partnerships
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