105: Is It Dopamine or Just Unmet Needs? Let’s Redefine 'Addiction' [Why Women Go To Therapy Series]

In this episode of the Zero Disturbance Podcast and our Why Women Go to Therapy series, we bust the myth of "dopamine addiction" and dive deep into the truth about what your nervous system is really trying to do. Through powerful storytelling, neuroscience-backed insight, and trauma-informed wisdom, we reframe the language around dopamine, addiction, trauma bonding, and self-soothing. If you’ve ever wondered why you feel "addicted" to love, validation, work, or chaos—this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Dopamine is not "good" or "bad" — it's a chemical signal tied to positive feeling states, not addiction.
• The real issue isn't dopamine; it’s unmet needs for self-soothing and safety.
• Trauma and early experiences create subconscious associations your brain tries to repeat—even decades later.
• EMDR and Brainspotting can help rewire those associations with intention.
• Predators (like narcissists) exploit your biology, but that doesn’t mean it’s your fault.
• Society conditions women to fall for love-bombing and dysfunctional romance, and it’s time to unlearn that.
• You can build a self-soothing, self-led system—on purpose.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you’re experiencing difficulties, please seek guidance from a licensed mental health provider. All stories, examples, and characters shared are fictionalized or composite representations. Any resemblance to actual persons or situations is purely coincidental and intended solely for educational illustration.

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With a Masters in Education from Vanderbilt, Kambria has been creating trainings and teaching adult learners for over 20 years. As the Director of Education and Quality Improvement at Stanford Medical School, she created ease in complex systems, thereby giving medical trainees successful learning experiences. Now, as a dedicated mom, therapist, and EMDR Consultant, Kambria knows what it means to do things efficiently, effectively, and in a learner-centered way. When she isn't podcasting or creating online courses, you can find Kambria playing with her twins on a beach in California.