Kacy Maitland Joins Karson & Kennedy as Show’s “Official Therapist”

Change can be hard. Life events such as moving or starting a new job bring stress and uncertainty, and it can take time to adjust.

Recently, the Karson & Kennedy show on Mix 104.1 moved to a new studio location after nearly 20 years in their Brighton office space. The show’s hosts—Karson Tager and Kennedy Elsey—have openly discussed the challenges this move has brought. They sought a therapist who could support them.

“I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time—to have a show therapist,” Karson said. “When there are things going on in the world, it’s good to talk to a professional.”

Enter Kacy Maitland, LICSW, who serves as chief clinical officer at Samaritans and has nearly 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. She is good friends with Kennedy, who serves on the Samaritans Board of Directors and has been a vocal advocate for the organization.

“This is what grief looks like,” Kacy told Karson and Kennedy during the July 22 show. “This is so incredibly normal that you guys are experiencing this feeling.”

Karson acknowledged some of their struggles may classify as “first-world problems,” but Kacy advised them not to discount their feelings. “You’re not overreacting. It’s your reality; it’s what you’re experiencing.”

At the end of the conversation, Karson informed Kacy she got the job, though he warned the hosts may text her at all hours of the morning, including on short notice. Kennedy told Kacy to add the role to her LinkedIn profile: “Official Therapist for the Karson & Kennedy Show.”

You can listen to the interview here: Part 1 / Part 2

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