Welcome back to Once Upon a Session — where stories meet healing.

Let’s be honest: fantasy men have been setting the bar way too high… or maybe exactly where it should be.

In this session, Vanessa and Nareesa unpack why we fall for fictional archetypes — and what those crushes actually reveal about our real-world desires and emotional needs.

We’re talking attraction, projection, and the psychology behind our favorite literary love interests. Consider this a guided conversation on attachment styles, fantasy fulfillment, and why we deserve soft love off the page, too.

Because it’s not that our standards are unrealistic — it’s that real men could stand to read more fiction.

Disclaimer: We’re licensed therapists, but we’re not your therapists. Everything shared here is for conversation, reflection, and entertainment.

✨ Follow Once Upon a Session for new episodes exploring stories, psychology, and healing.

Welcome back to Once Upon a Session — where stories meet healing.

You know that moment when someone’s energy starts to feel… expensive? That’s the emotional cover charge.

In this episode, Vanessa and Nareesa unpack what it means to protect your peace without guilt, how to recognize when emotional labor becomes transactional, and why boundaries aren’t walls — they’re invitations for healthy access.

From therapy rooms to friendships to fantasy worlds, we explore self-worth, emotional reciprocity, and the art of saying, “You can’t afford admission right now” — with clarity, compassion, and a little humor.

Disclaimer: We’re licensed therapists, but not your therapists. This podcast is for conversation, reflection, and inspiration.

Follow Once Upon a Session for new exploring stories, psychology, and healing.

Welcome back to Once Upon a Session — where stories meet healing.

Some villains just needed a session — or ten.

In this episode, Nareesa and Vanessa unpack the psychology of literary and fantasy antagonists: the misunderstood, the morally gray, and the ones who were one good therapist away from redemption.

From trauma responses to origin stories, we explore what makes a “villain,” why context matters, and how storytelling shapes who gets labeled the bad guy.

Insightful, funny, and just a little unhinged — because even villains deserve reflection.

Disclaimer: We're licensed therapists, but not your therapists. This podcast is for education, reflection, and inspiration.

Follow Once Upon a Session for new episodes exploring stories, psychology, and healing.