Jordan Peele’s Get Out has been out for some time now, making its themes and symbolism well-known. One of the most intense and widely discussed scenes is when Chris, the protagonist, unwillingly sinks into the floor after being hypnotized. As he descends into a vast, dark abyss—completely unseen and unheard—the hypnotist informs him that he is now in the Sunken Place. Throughout the film, several characters exist in this state; though their outward appearance remains unchanged, they are, in reality, imprisoned within themselves.

Many viewers reacted to this scene with phrases like, “That’s crazy!” Yet, what is even more alarming is the reality that countless individuals live in their own version of the Sunken Place due to severe depression. Because they appear functional—excelling at work, maintaining social media presence, attending church services, and providing for their families—their suffering often goes unnoticed. Others, however, experience depression so intensely that it manifests physically—numbness, significant weight fluctuations, loss of motivation, and overwhelming sadness. Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding depression discourages many from seeking help, as they fear the judgment and misconceptions that often accompany mental health struggles.

Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal decision, and having preferences—whether for a therapist’s gender, race, faith, or therapeutic approach—can play a crucial role in your healing journey. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe, understood, and comfortable enough to be open and vulnerable. If certain factors help build that trust, they’re not just preferences; they’re key components of your success in treatment.

When clients align with a therapist who resonates with their values, experiences, or communication style, they’re more likely to engage fully in the process. For example, a Black client may prefer a Black therapist to avoid having to explain cultural nuances, or a person of faith may feel more comfortable with a therapist who integrates spirituality into their approach. These preferences aren’t about exclusion—they’re about creating the right conditions for growth. Research consistently shows that the connection and trust between a client and therapist is one of the biggest predictors of positive treatment outcomes.

The 80’s made me but the 90’s raised me.  I’m proud to be a millennial. It’s not that any generation is greater than the others. It’s just that the 90’s was such as time to be alive! It was a time when technology was emerging, but it hadn’t yet taken over our lives. I was one of those kids who spent hours outside jumping rope, riding books, and playing with my cousins and neighborhood kids. Life felt simpler in so many rewarding ways.

Today, younger generations are born into a world where technology is almost second nature. Infants seem to instinctively swipe screens. That’s not a criticism—just an observation of how times have changed. As a therapist, I’ve found that younger generations, particularly Gen Z, tend to be more emotionally aware and articulate about their feelings. They have often made therapy sessions surprisingly insightful and even easier in some ways compared to other generations.

That said, one area where younger generations have shown resilience is in discussing grief, loss, and death. While these topics are universally challenging, talking to Gen Z about such matters can feel less dreadful than expected. I’d like to offer my thoughts on how to approach these sensitive conversations with them.