In this refreshingly candid episode of The Gabi Koyenov Podcast, I sit down with Juda Alcabes—therapist, stand-up comedian, and the mind behind The Improv Therapist. We explore the fascinating intersection of comedy and mental health, diving into how humor can be a powerful therapeutic tool when used with care and intention. From group therapy to one-on-one sessions, Juda shares how laughter can help clients disarm, connect, and heal.Our conversation spans a wide range of topics: the risks and rewards of using comedy in clinical settings, the rise of psychedelics in therapy, and the role of curiosity and creativity in emotional growth. Juda also opens up about his own therapeutic breakthroughs, including a surreal journey with his inner child and the transformative power of Gestalt supervision.We close with practical advice on public speaking, the path to becoming a therapist, and how rediscovering playfulness through improv can awaken deeper healing. Whether you’re a therapist, comedian, or simply someone fascinated by the power of human connection, this episode is packed with laughter, insight, and depth.

Juda Alcabes, The Improv Therapist, therapy and comedy, humor in therapy, stand-up therapy, group therapy humor, psychedelic therapy, Gestalt supervision, childhood healing, therapeutic breakthroughs, improv therapy, curiosity in education, public speaking tips, therapist life, comedians and therapy, Gabi Koyenov Podcast

Connect with Juda!Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_improvtherapist/#Connect with Gabi!Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_gabi/Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2SoydqNskaV9wOra0Yh6Z3?si=d1891df9a822414cBook a session!The Men's Therapy Studiohttps://themenstherapystudio.com/00:00 Introduction: Therapists and Stand-Up Comedy01:30 The Intersection of Comedy and Therapy05:02 Group Therapy and Humor11:26 Unique Therapies and Their Challenges12:07 Psychedelics in Therapy18:07 Therapists as Modern-Day Wizards26:10 Personal Stories and Reflections37:48 A Surreal Journey with Childhood Self39:00 Therapeutic Breakthroughs and Gestalt Supervision41:19 The Path to Becoming a Therapist45:48 Stand-Up Comedy as Therapy50:32 Improv Therapy and Rediscovering Playfulness56:00 The Importance of Curiosity in Education01:03:20 Combining Therapy with Comedy01:09:33 Public Speaking Tips and Final Thoughts