Let’s unpack that.
A new comedy show that incorporates elements of therapy is selling out every month in Manhattan. “Cheap Therapy By Hoes With Feelings,” is hosted by “untrained professionals” and New York City comedians Karolena Theresa and Melissa Rich.
Rich and Theresa, who both said they’ve been in therapy for years, emphasized that they’re not just poking fun of therapy – they’re also hoping to make people feel comfortable about exploring it, particularly at a time when young people have reported high levels of mental distress.
“Sometimes I think the discourse around mental health can get either so heavy or sometimes so cringe,” said Rich. “You really don’t have to make it that way. You can have fun and heal, but not take it too seriously.”
The show, which started in January, and happens about twice a month, features a rotating mix of five stand-up comedians who perform short sets about any subject. Afterward, they discuss some of the topics from their set with the hosts, as if they are in a therapy session.
Previous shows have featured “Saturday Night Live” cast member Devon Walker as well as up-and-coming comedians Jake Cornell and Brittany Carney.
In between sets, the hosts also answer anonymous audience questions and dispense advice on how to find a relationship, how to navigate friend drama, and how to make friends as an adult.
Though they offer lots of advice, Theresa and Rich make it clear they have no professional training or expertise.
“I don’t have anything to offer other than just a good sense of humor and life experience,” said Theresa. “I have a minor in women’s studies and a minor in Latina studies. I’m not qualified.”
Nicole Nienaber, who was visiting from Ohio, attended a recent “Cheap Therapy” show and said she liked that the hosts make light of therapy instead of taking it too seriously.
“We all pretty much probably need it and they’re trying to put a fun spin on it,” said Nineaber.
Jackie Charles, in town from Paris, attended the show with her friend Angel Metellus-Jacques, who lives in Massachusetts. Charles said she supported the show because she loves any opportunity to talk about therapy.
“Everyone’s kind of used to talking about therapy or knows someone who’s been in therapy,” Charles said. “So the show made you reflect. If there was something you thought about, then it’s like, “maybe I should talk to my therapist about that, too.’”
Rich didn’t cite any downsides of therapy, but said she once had a “hot therapist” for two years and advised against being attracted to your therapist.
“It’s fun and you’re flirting and you’re having a great time,” she said. “But I did definitely make more progress with a therapist I wasn’t attracted to.”
The next “Cheap Therapy By Hoes With Feelings” is Friday, March 22. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are around $23. For more information visit here.
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