LA Shrinks: Peeling Back the Layers of the Human Psyche in Tinseltown

Series Overview

Bravo’s “LA Shrinks” takes viewers on a riveting journey into therapy and psychology against the glamorous backdrop of Los Angeles. Premiering in 2013, this reality TV series invites audiences to witness three prominent therapists’ professional and personal lives as they navigate the challenges of helping their clients while facing their intricate realities.

The Therapeutic Trio

At the core of “LA Shrinks” are three distinct and accomplished therapists, each bringing their unique approach to the field. Dr. Venus Nicolino, known as “Dr. V,” is a relationship expert with a no-nonsense attitude. Dr. Gregory Cason, a psychologist specializing in sex therapy, offers a refreshing and open perspective on intimacy and relationships. Finally, Dr. Eris Huemer, a marriage and family therapist, adds her insights into the mix, rounding out the trio of professionals.

Tackling Tinseltown Issues

Set against the vibrant and often chaotic backdrop of Los Angeles, the show delves into the unique challenges faced by individuals in the entertainment industry. From navigating the pressures of fame to dealing with the complex interplay of personal and professional relationships, “LA Shrinks” explores the psychological intricacies of Tinseltown’s denizens.

LA Shrinks Puts Therapy in the Limelight

One of the distinctive features of “LA Shrinks” is its unfiltered look at therapy sessions. Unlike traditional therapy settings, the show offers viewers an intimate glimpse into the counseling process, providing insight into the struggles and breakthroughs experienced by the clients. The therapists’ diverse approaches and their clients’ varied issues add depth and authenticity to the series.

Personal and Professional Balancing Act

Beyond the therapeutic sessions, “LA Shrinks” pulls back the curtain on the therapists’ lives, illustrating the delicate balance between their professional responsibilities and personal challenges. Viewers witness the therapists navigating their relationships, family dynamics, and the inevitable stresses of their chosen profession. This dual focus on the personal and professional aspects of their lives adds a layer of complexity and relatability to the series.

Cultural and Psychological Exploration

As the therapists delve into the unique cultural landscape of Los Angeles, “LA Shrinks” becomes a fascinating exploration of the intersection between psychology and pop culture. The series doesn’t shy away from addressing the impact of societal expectations, celebrity culture, and the pursuit of perfection on the mental well-being of individuals in this iconic city.

Ongoing Impact

While “LA Shrinks” had a relatively short run, spanning one season, it left a lasting impression on Bravo’s reality TV catalog. The series offered a nuanced and humanizing perspective on therapy, shedding light on the universal nature of mental health struggles. By bringing psychology into the limelight, “LA Shrinks” contributed to a broader cultural conversation about the importance of mental well-being and therapy’s role in navigating life’s challenges.

Cast Overview

Following is a list of the primary cast members for the show.

• Eris Huemer, a marriage and family therapist who faces issues in her marriage
• Gregory Casona, a psychologist specializing in cognitive therapy
• Dr. Venus Nicolino, Ph.D., a life consultant and mother of four boys

List of Episodes

LA Shrinks aired for one season with a total of 8 episodes. Each episode was 42 to 43 minutes in length. The episodes are available to stream online via Amazon Video.

Season 1

• Episode 1 – Sexual Healing – The therapists have clients who are having trouble in the bedroom.
• Episode 2 – Fear and Loving in Los Angeles – First, Dr. V listens to a recording of her clients in the bedroom. At the same time, she deals with the pressure of running her own business with four children to care for. Dr. Eris tries to coach her client not to be so controlling. In her personal life, she experiments with tantric sex. Dr. Greg takes his client on a drive and is surprised by her behavior. Later, he has lunch with his father.
• Episode 3 – Carry the Weight – Dr. helps a couple with their sex life. Next, she meets with two twin brothers who have different sexual preferences. Next, Dr. Greg meets with a new client who doesn’t like anyone who is overweight. Then, Dr. Eris has a breakdown during a therapy session.
• Episode 4 – The Naked Truth – Dr. Eris helps a plastic surgeon deal with difficult news. In another session, her client, Kimberly, walks out of a session with her husband. Dr. V gives her clients Georgia and Michael a few gifts to help their relationship. Next, she takes the twin brothers (from the previous episode) to a gay nightclub. Later, Dr. Greg continues to work with his client, who struggles with accepting overweight people.
• Episode 5 – Under My Skin – In the beginning, Dr. Eris helps Kimberly and Neil after a big breakdown. Later, she gets a new client (a Playboy bunny) who is having trouble meeting the right men. Next, Greg takes his client Chris to a “fat camp.” Dr. V begins to worry if her breast implants give the wrong impression. Meanwhile, she gets a new client who is addicted to online dating.
• Episode 6 – Family Affairs – Dr. Eris meets with her Playboy bunny client, who shows us in a pair of ridiculous PJs. Next, she asks her husband if he is willing to see a fertility doctor. Dr. V talks to one of her friends about her frustrating client. Later, she tells Shane that he is not being realistic. Finally, Dr. Greg has an emotional therapy session with his father.   
• Episode 7 – Swimming Up Stream – Dr. Eris and Claton meet with their fertility doctor. Next, she finds out that her air-headed Playboy client is now engaged to someone. Then, Dr. V sets her client up on a few dates so she can watch him in action. Later, she sees a surgeon about possibly removing her implants.
• Episode 8 – Final Thoughts – Dr. V and Matthew first go on a romantic getaway to Palm Springs. However, they worry about their father’s babysitting skills. Dr. Eris and Clayton make a big announcement at a family party. Dr. Greg receives bad news right before the wedding.

Production Company and Executive Producers

Intuitive Entertainment produced the show. The executive producers include Elise Duran, Kevin Dill, and Mechelle Collins.

Critical Response and Awards

• LA Shrinks was not nominated for any awards.
• The series received 6.7 out of 10 stars on IMDB.
• The series received 3.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon Video

Facts and Trivia

The following lists little-known facts and trivia about the show and its cast members.

• We’re still gathering facts and trivia about the series. If you have anything to share, please post below.

Questions and Comments

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