Since 2009, youth well-being has seen a dramatic decline with anxiety, depression, and suicidality rates climbing at an alarming pace. In this continuing education Podcourse, I’m joined by Dr. Johann D'Souza, a clinical psychologist specializing in OCD and anxiety, to explore the research connecting smartphones, social media, and toxic screen use to this mental health crisis.

We break down the four harmful effects of excessive screen time: sleep deprivation, addiction, social isolation, and distraction - and discuss evidence-based solutions that parents, therapists, and communities can implement now. From phone-free schools to family screen detox plans, you’ll walk away with both the science and the strategies to support healthier habits in children and adolescents.

Purchase this Podcourse here!

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Since 2009, youth well-being has seen a dramatic decline with anxiety, depression, and suicidality rates climbing at an alarming pace. In this continuing education Podcourse, I’m joined by Dr. Johann D'Souza, a clinical psychologist specializing in OCD and anxiety, to explore the research connecting smartphones, social media, and toxic screen use to this mental health crisis.

We break down the four harmful effects of excessive screen time: sleep deprivation, addiction, social isolation, and distraction -  and discuss evidence-based solutions that parents, therapists, and communities can implement now. From phone-free schools to family screen detox plans, you’ll walk away with both the science and the strategies to support healthier habits in children and adolescents.

Remember, while you can listen to the show for free, those seeking continuing education credits can purchase them here. 

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze research findings to identify the significant decline in youth well-being beginning around 2009 and its global scope.
• Describe the four primary harmful effects of excessive screen time- sleep deprivation, addiction, social isolation, and distraction - and their impact on mental health.
• Evaluate evidence-based strategies and practical solutions for reducing harmful screen time use in children and adolescents.

About Dr. Johann D'Souza:

Dr. Johann D'Souza is a clinical psychologist based in Houston, Texas, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). He is committed to integrating modern psychological practices with traditional values, ensuring that therapy aligns with each individual's core beliefs.

Dr. D'Souza's academic journey is both diverse and distinguished. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Theology from the University of Dallas, reflecting a strong foundation in spiritual studies. He furthered his expertise with a Master of Arts in General Psychology from Boston University and another Master's in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston, where he was honored with a Presidential Fellowship. He completed his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Houston.

His clinical training includes a predoctoral internship at the Baylor College of Medicine's OCD Specialty Clinic and a postdoctoral fellowship focusing on OCD and related disorders at Psychology Houston. Additionally, Dr. D'Souza serves as a Research Affiliate with The Human Flourishing Program at Harvard University, underscoring his dedication to advancing mental health research.

In his practice, Dr. D'Souza emphasizes transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. He collaborates with clients to understand their thoughts and emotions, employing scientifically supported strategies to promote peace and focus. His guiding principles include professional excellence, the inherent dignity of human life, the natural complementarity of male and female, and the beauty of chaste love.

Through Values First Therapy, Dr. D'Souza aims to build a network of practices across the U.S. that offer science-based therapy aligned with traditional values, striving to change the world by transforming the field of psychology both professionally and ethically.

Dr. D'Souza's Podcourse on OCD and ERP.

Disclosure Statement for Dr. Johann D’Souza; Financial: Dr. Johann D’Souza receives financial compensation from Mustard Consulting, LLC for this speaking engagement.

About Lisa: Lisa Mustard, MPH, EdS, LMFT has worked for a college counseling center, addiction recovery center and has been working with a military branch for the past 14 years. Lisa is a lover of all things fitness and health, a Podcaster and Coach.

Continuing Education Contact Hours:

Mustard Consulting, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7061. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Mustard Consulting, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Completion Requirements:

To obtain your certificate of completion, you must listen entirely to the audio, pass the Podcourse completion quiz and complete a satisfaction survey.

Refund policy: No refunds are provided for self-study courses.

Disclosure Statement for Dr. Johann D'Souza; Financial: Dr. Johann D'Souza receives financial compensation from Mustard Consulting, LLC for this speaking engagement.

The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with your own healthcare provider regarding any personal health or medical conditions.

Need continuing education contact hours? If so, then be sure to check out my $5 Podcourses. Check out the other CE courses - Holistic Counseling Bundle, the Art of Breathwork and How to Resolve the Parent Trap!

Thank you for tuning into The Therapy Show. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode.

Learn more about Dr. Johann D’Souza and his work at Values First Therapy.

Other Resources:

🧠 Coping with Political Stress (eBook + Workbook) A 62-page editable guide with grounding tools and reflection prompts. Customize and share with clients.
Not a therapist but want the workbook? Click here.

🗣 Therapist Conversation Framework: Politics in Session
A printable PDF with 97 questions to navigate political talk in therapy—without taking sides.

💬 Solution-Focused Therapy Guide
72 questions + prompts to help adult clients clarify goals and move forward using SFT.