The BEST episodes of Dr. Phil season 12
Every episode of Dr. Phil season 12, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Dr. Phil season 12!
Dr. Phil is a talk show hosted by Phil McGraw. After McGraw's success with his segments on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Dr. Phil debuted on September 16, 2002. On both shows McGraw offers advice in the form of "life strategies" from his life experience as a clinical psychologist.
#1 - Spies, Suspicions and Sexual Accusations
Season 12 - Episode 44 - Aired 11/7/2013
Cindy says her husband of 15 years, Mike, relentlessly accuses her of cheating and claims his unfounded mistrust has escalated to verbal and physical abuse. She says Mike will stop at nothing to catch her in the act, including hiring a private investigator, recording her phone calls and hiding cameras in the house. She says he has even faked suicide in an attempt to manipulate her to confess -- in front of their 12-year-old son. Cindy is adamant that she's never strayed but says to avoid the endless harassment, she moved out. Now, she says Mike is turning their son against her. Mike says his investigation began two-and-a-half years ago, when he caught his wife in a lie and became convinced that she cheated. What does he say happened? And, Mike says his wife passed a polygraph test to prove she’s not lying about being faithful -- so, why does he still not believe her? Plus, Dr. Phil takes a look at Mike’s evidence against Cindy -- are his suspicions valid? This program contains strong language and sexual content. Viewer discretion advised.
#2 - Chained, Tortured and Starved: The First Cleveland Kidnapping Victim Reveals All
Season 12 - Episode 43 - Aired 11/6/2013
Dr. Phil continues his exclusive interview with Michelle Knight, the first of the three Cleveland kidnapping victims to break her silence. Ariel Castro’s first and self-professed “most hated” victim reveals never-before-heard details about how she survived in the house and the day she says she was forced to "prepare" a room for Castro's third victim. Hear about the remarkable bond that developed between them — how they protected each other, and how they kept each other alive. She also recounts the day of her dramatic rescue. Did she know that one of her fellow captives was planning to escape? Plus, after finally being convicted and sentenced to life in prison, Ariel Castro was found hanged in his prison cell in September. For the first time ever, she reveals how she feels about his death. Don’t miss this emotional conclusion!
#3 - Headbutted and Choked Unconscious: A Wife and Children Left in Fear
Season 12 - Episode 164 - Aired 5/22/2014
Janette says in the past year, her husband, Clint, has turned into someone she doesn’t recognize. She says his temper is frightening, and he’s become mentally, verbally and physically abusive with her and their three children, and she’s afraid his behavior could turn deadly. Recently, Janette says one of their arguments escalated and ended with Clint choking her unconscious, while their 11-year-old son tried to pull his father off of her. Janette says there have been multiple incidents, and their children are now frightened of their father. Clint admits he has anger issues and gets physical with his wife but says she nags and provokes him until he snaps -- and he says she should be afraid of him when he’s angry. Dr. Phil makes it clear what’s at stake in this family dynamic -- will Clint take his wake-up call to heart? Then, Lindsey says she was petrified of her abusive boyfriend and after finally finding the courage to break up with him, he viciously attacked her with hot cooking oil, leaving her permanently disfigured. Don’t miss her story and the heartfelt message she has for Janette and Clint. Plus, Dr. Phil and Robin share an important announcement about their mission to end the silence on domestic violence, with the help of When Georgia Smiled, The Robin McGraw Revelation Foundation and Verizon Wireless. And, tune in to see how you can help victims of domestic abuse. This program contains graphic images. Viewer discretion advised.
#4 - A Husband Obsessed; A Wife Accused
Season 12 - Episode 45 - Aired 11/8/2013
Dr. Phil continues his examination of Mike’s evidence that his wife, Cindy, has cheated -- including polygraph results, STD tests and a DNA test. Are his suspicions justified, or is there something deeper at play? Cindy says she’s never cheated on her husband, and Mike’s endless accusations have made the last two-and-a-half years hell. She claims his mistrust has escalated to verbal and physical abuse, and she recently moved out. She says he has now turned their 12-year-old son against her, and the child hasn’t spoken to her in over a month. Dr. Phil sits down with their son one on one. Hear what he has to say about his mother. Then, Dr. Phil confronts Mike. Has he programmed their son against Cindy? And, what’s really behind Mike’s obsession to prove his wife has been unfaithful? Dr. Phil offers a solution that may change the way he sees Cindy -- and save his marriage. Will he accept? This program contains strong language and sexual content. Viewer discretion advised.
#5 - From Housewife to Secret Sex Life: A Sister Intervention
Season 12 - Episode 46 - Aired 11/11/2013
Emily and Lori say that when their oldest sister, Kim, lost 115 pounds a year and a half ago, she turned into a completely different person. A one-time devoted wife and mother, they say that Kim filed for divorce from her husband of 17 years, joined a sexual fetish group and started neglecting her 9-year-old daughter’s needs — one time even losing track of the child for several hours. The sisters also claim that their niece is being exposed to Kim’s alternative lifestyle and has become scared and withdrawn. Kim says that she’s happier than ever and insists that her daughter is well taken care of and is not being exposed to any sexual activities — and that her sisters are blowing things way out of proportion. How does she describe her new lifestyle and the changes she has made? And, hear from Kim’s soon-to-be ex-husband, James. Does he support the way Kim is living her life? Dr. Phil sorts through the allegations in search of the truth — is Kim’s daughter in an unsafe environment? Plus, Kim has a new boyfriend, Stacy, whom she calls the love of her life. Don’t miss part two tomorrow, when the sisters come face-to-face with Stacy for the first time — and learn a shocking secret about his past. This show contains strong sexual content. Viewer discretion advised.
#6 - The Mysterious Death of Jacob Limberios
Season 12 - Episode 49 - Aired 11/14/2013
On March 2, 2012, 19-year-old Jacob “Jake” Limberios was fatally shot in the head in the presence of three friends. The coroner ruled his death a suicide -- but Jake’s parents, Mike and Shannon, say it doesn’t add up. They claim there was no investigation into Jake’s death, no evidence collected and no autopsy performed before Jake's death was ruled a suicide -- and they refuse to believe their son would take his own life. Jake’s family say a lot of questions remain unanswered, including: Who fired the shot? Two witnesses, Brittany and Will, adamantly maintain that Jake accidentally shot himself, but Mike and Shannon say their son knew how to handle guns safely and that the evidence doesn’t support that conclusion. Mike takes Dr. Phil cameras to the scene of the shooting to demonstrate why he believes that Jake was shot by someone else in the room. And, Brittany and Will face Mike and Shannon on Dr. Phil’s stage, frustrated by the cloud of suspicion that they say still follows them as a result of Mike and Shannon’s allegations. When offered a chance to take a polygraph test, will they accept? Don’t miss this compelling two-part mystery.
#7 - Family Dramas, Mysteries and Facing the Unknown
Season 12 - Episode 169 - Aired 5/26/2014
Dr. Phil taps into the spiritual world with help from the next generation of psychic mediums, Thomas John and Bill Philipps. When did they first realize they had psychic abilities? And, what messages will they have for guests, viewers, audience members and Dr. Phil staff? Then, recovering addict Kathie says her daughter, Whitney, refuses to forgive her for her past mistakes, and she wants to make amends. Whitney says her mother abandoned the family after Kathie’s mother passed away in 2002, leaving Whitney to fight for — and win — custody of her younger sister.
#8 - Saving Loni: From the Suburbs to the Slums
Season 12 - Episode 171 - Aired 6/5/2014
Lynn and Paul say their 20-year-old daughter, Loni, went from a straight-A student to a heroin addict, and they’re desperate to get her help. After two felony arrests — including one for allegedly selling heroin to an undercover officer — Loni spent 30 days in rehab, but they say it wasn’t long before they discovered she was using heroin again — and stealing money and jewelry from family members to pay for it. Now, Lynn and Paul say Loni is living in a trailer with strangers, in the middle of nowhere, and they fear for her life. Dr. Phil sends mother-son intervention team Debbie and Brandon to track down Loni and offer her a chance to face her family and make a plan for a healthier future. Will Loni grab onto the lifeline?
#9 - My Husband Wants Me to Look Like Beyoncé
Season 12 - Episode 120 - Aired 3/11/2014
Marlon says his five-year marriage to his wife, Dedrea, is on the rocks because she has “let herself go,” and he’s ready to leave her if she doesn’t “step it up.” He says that he wants Dedrea to lose 20 pounds, wear more makeup and dress sexier & to look more like his dream woman, Beyoncé — while also cooking, cleaning and caring for their 5-year-old son. Marlon says he puts a lot of effort into his own appearance — which he thinks is “close to perfect” — and he doesn’t understand why his wife doesn’t do the same. Dedrea insists that Marlon’s narcissism is the real problem in their marriage. She says that his many demands for her are unrealistic — and have hurt her self-esteem. Dr. Phil calls on lifestyle and fashion expert Lawrence Zarian, author of the new book Lawrence Zarian’s 10 Commandments for a Perfect Wardrobe, to give Dedrea a look that she can call her own. How will Marlon react? And, can this couple reconnect — and fix their marriage moving forward? Plus, American Idol winner Ruben Studdard is returning to the music scene after competing on NBC’s The Biggest Loser and dropping 120 pounds. He opens up about his struggles with weight — and why he finally made the commitment to get healthy. Plus, Ruben, accompanied by legendary music producer David Foster, performs a single from his new album!
#10 - My Head-Butting, Punching, Kicking, Bruising, Biting, Knife-Wielding 8-Year-Old
Season 12 - Episode 122 - Aired 3/13/2014
Dawn says she has become increasingly afraid of her 8-year-old son, Gaje, who she says is out of control — and has threatened to kill her multiple times. She says Gaje flies into rages where he swears, hits, kicks, spits and throws things — once even punching her in the stomach while she was pregnant. Dawn also says Gaje has become violent at school, where he head-butted a teacher and broke her nose. Dr. Phil has some tough questions for Dawn, and Gaje’s father, Lee, who admit they had a volatile relationship before their divorce, when Gaje was 3. How may have those early experiences affected their son? Plus, Gaje’s stepfather, Mike, admits he spanks Gaje to discipline him, because nothing else seems to work — but is that the best approach? Then, Dr. Phil sits down with Gaje for a revealing one-on-one talk. What does he think is at the root of the boy’s anger? And, how can the family help Gaje get back on track? Then, Crystal suffers from Fibromyalgia and says the chronic pain and fatigue are taking a toll on her — and her marriage. Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall, Chief Medical Officer of Pfizer, shares important information about managing the disease. Will Crystal finally find some relief?
#11 - Beautiful People in an Ugly Divorce, with a Baby Trapped in the Middle
Season 12 - Episode 113 - Aired 2/27/2014
Francesca says her husband of two years, Hawk, recently filed for divorce and is building a case of lies against her, in an effort to gain full custody of their 10-month-old son. She claims he constantly calls police and falsely accuses her of domestic violence every time they have a disagreement — which is usually about who gets to spend time with their child. She also says Hawk is controlling and jealous of her bond with their baby — but could she be keeping their son from bonding with his father? Hawk says Francesca is violent, unstable, and won’t let him spend any time with their son, which is why he says he’ll go to extreme lengths to get custody. He admits to calling the police during their disputes but says it’s to keep the situation from escalating. Francesca’s mother, Debra, says her son-in-law is a “sociopath” who cannot be trusted, and she fears for the safety of her daughter and grandson. Dr. Phil doesn’t mince words about the risks this couple is taking with their behavior. Can they stop the mudslinging and learn to peacefully co-parent for the sake of their child?
#12 - I Think My Daughter-in-Law Poisoned My Son to Death
Season 12 - Episode 121 - Aired 3/12/2014
In July 2012, Lorrie’s 36-year-old son, Aaron, was found dead on his couch — and she claims her daughter-in-law, Fawn, murdered him by giving him a marijuana cigarette laced with a poisonous herb. Lorrie says the couple was separated, and she believes Fawn wanted to collect Aaron’s life insurance before the divorce was finalized. Fawn says although her marriage to Aaron was on the rocks, she had nothing to do with her husband’s death. What does she say happened that night? And, how does she explain moving on with a new man, weeks after Aaron’s death? Plus, hear the coroner’s autopsy report — was anything suspicious found? Emotions run high when Fawn and Lorrie face each other on Dr. Phil’s stage. How does Fawn answer to Lorrie’s allegation that she once threatened to kill Aaron? And, why did Aaron file a protective order against Fawn one month before his death? Dr. Phil sorts through the details and enlists the help of a toxicologist to provide some answers. Could Aaron have been poisoned to death?
#13 - Best Friend Killers: What Happened to Skylar Neese?
Season 12 - Episode 119 - Aired 3/10/2014
On July 6, 2012, 16-year-old Skylar Neese was stabbed to death by her two best friends, Shelia Eddy and Rachel Shoaf. Six months later, Rachel confessed to police and led them to Skylar’s remains. Sheilia continued to plead not guilty -- until January 2014, when she finally admitted her part in the brutal murder. Both teens claimed they killed Skylar because they “didn’t want to be friends with her anymore” -- but was that their real motive? And, who was the mastermind behind the plot? Dr. Phil sits down with Sklylar’s parents, Dave and Mary, who say they’re struggling to comprehend what happened to their little girl. How can they heal after such a horrific tragedy? And, how could Shelia -- who had been friends with Skylar since she was 8 -- and Rachel commit such a heinous crime? Hear from Shelia’s cousin, who says Shelia isn’t the monster that people say she is. And, friends of Rachel’s family weigh in. Were there any red flags they say they missed? Then, a close friend of Shelia and Skylar claims she knows the real reason behind the murder. Does Skylar’s journal entry confirm her suspicions?
#14 - The Fight Over Justina: Medical Child Abuse by Parents or Abuse of Power by a Hospital?
Season 12 - Episode 123 - Aired 3/17/2014
A couple battle the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the custody of their teen daughter, who they say has been held against her will by a hospital in a dispute about her diagnosis and treatment; a cancer survivor and a sun worshiper need help.
#15 - Ultimate Betrayal: Forced to Kill His Father
Season 12 - Episode 118 - Aired 3/6/2014
Twenty-one-year-old Corey was only 10 when he walked into his sleeping father’s room and killed him with a single gunshot to the head. He claims he was manipulated into committing the unthinkable act by his stepmother, Judith, after allegedly suffering years of horrific mental and physical abuse at her hands. Corey says he told police the shooting was accidental — and kept the secret for nine years, before finally confiding in teachers. Judith is now serving a life sentence for aggravated murder, child endangerment and insurance fraud. However, Corey says there’s another person he blames for his father’s death — his birth mother, Wendy, who signed away her parental rights when he was 8. Did she put Corey in harm’s way? Wendy insists that she thought she was giving Corey a stable home — and had no idea about the abuse he says he suffered. But were there warning signs she may have missed? Can Dr. Phil help this mother and son heal the wounds of the past and rebuild their relationship? Plus, Michelle says her sister, Tashena’s, phone call to Child Protective Services caused her to lose custody of her 6-month-old daughter, who has special medical needs. Tashena denies contacting CPS — and says Michelle’s irresponsible parenting, including missing several doctor’s appointments, is to blame. Is Michelle really ready to be a mother? What does Dr. Phil say she must do if she wants her daughter back?
#16 - Party Mom: Did She Put Her Children in Danger?
Season 12 - Episode 117 - Aired 3/5/2014
Twenty-three-year-old Mercedes says that her 38-year-old mother, Sueann, has been partying and drinking several days a week for the past 18 years — forcing her to become a mother figure to her four younger siblings. She says that when she was a child, her mother often returned home intoxicated and initiated arguments — if she came home at all — and even took her to a bar when she was 15. Mercedes says despite an alcohol-related arrest and a mandatory rehab stint, her mother continues to drink excessively, and she’s at her wits’ end. Sueann admits that she goes out partying every week, and sometimes drinks until she blacks out, but insists she has always been a good mother. So, how does she explain losing custody of her 13-year-old son? Plus, hear from Sueann’s 15-year-old daughter, Destiny, who got pregnant at just 12 years old. Why does she say she blames her mother? Can Dr. Phil help Sueann realize the damage her choices are causing her family? And, is she willing to stop the drinking and partying — and be a mom?
#17 - Restraining Orders, Alleged Kidnappings and Hit with a Car: A Marriage of Accusations
Season 12 - Episode 116 - Aired 3/4/2014
Eric says his two-year marriage to his now-estranged wife, Melissa, has been like “living a nightmare.” He claims Melissa has grown so violent during their fights that the police have been called to their home at least eight times. He also says she once hit him with his car — an incident he caught on video. Melissa completely disagrees and says Eric is to blame and needs to take responsibility for his actions. She claims he has raped, kidnapped and abused her — which he vehemently denies. When it comes time to sit down with Dr. Phil, why is she a no-show? Then, hear from Eric’s 20-year-old son, Nico — whom does he blame for the turmoil? When Dr. Phil sorts through the allegations against Eric, including six restraining orders from past relationships, will he take ownership of the situation? And, can this marriage be saved?
#18 - I'm Worried My Daughter May Turn into a Terrorist
Season 12 - Episode 115 - Aired 3/3/2014
Darlene says she’s been estranged from her 27-year-old daughter, Abby, for more than a year, because she doesn’t approve of Abby converting from Southern Baptist to Islam. Darlene says that she believes Abby is being “brainwashed” by her Muslim friends — and fears that her daughter may even “turn into a terrorist.” Abby insists that her mother has taken a narrow and uninformed view about her new faith. She says that she was heading down a dangerous path of drinking and promiscuity — and becoming a Muslim helped her get her life back on track. Abby adds that her plan is to move to Saudi Arabia and never look back, whether Darlene likes it or not. Is she really ready to leave her family and her life behind? Can Dr. Phil help this mother and daughter reconnect — and move forward with acceptance for one another? Then, Maddy was the only minority jury member in the high-profile George Zimmerman case. Hear what she says really happened in the deliberation room — and shares her feelings about the not guilty verdict. Does she think justice was served? Plus, Lisa Bloom, author of the new book Suspicion Nation, shares her insight on the trial. Why does she believe that critical evidence may have been overlooked?
#19 - A Husband's Decade of Deceit: Uncovering 1,000 Affairs?
Season 12 - Episode 114 - Aired 2/28/2014
Deb says she thought she and her husband, David, had the perfect marriage, until a year ago, when she uncovered a secret world of sex and lies that she says he had been hiding for more than a decade. Deb says she suspects David of having at least 1,000 affairs with women all over the world -- the level of engagement ranging from sexting to emailing to physical contact -- and she has become obsessed with knowing the truth. David admits he had several inappropriate relationships with other women but claims he only had two physical affairs. He says he ended all contact with other women as soon as Deb found out, but she just won’t let it go. Deb admits she constantly digs for evidence that he’s still being unfaithful, including snooping on his phone and in his email, and searching for him on dating websites. She says she even had two computer professionals examine his computer for evidence -- what, if anything, did they find? David says his wife’s lack of trust and persistent prying is destroying their marriage. Deb says David has never given her a sincere apology, and she is struggling to get past the betrayal. Will she ever be able to trust her husband again? And, is there any hope of saving this marriage?
#20 - You're Not Hot Enough
Season 12 - Episode 134 - Aired 4/10/2014
Jerame says his wife, Jessica, was “smoking hot” back in high school, but now a decade later, he says she has let herself go — and his attraction toward her has fizzled. He says that he wants Jessica to lose weight and put more effort into her appearance. Jessica says that between being the primary breadwinner of the family and raising two kids, she’s just too exhausted to worry about shopping, putting on make-up or working out. She also says Jeremy’s snide comments about her appearance have completely deflated her self-esteem. Dr. Phil calls in “the big guns” — his wife, Robin — to help the couple get back on track. She has some stern words for Jerame, who admits he can be insensitive, and important advice for Jessica about making herself a priority. Then, Robin whisks Jessica backstage for a confidence-boosting makeover, including a pampering facial with products from her new skincare line, Robin McGraw Revelation. Learn about Robin’s simple three-step regimen for a healthier, younger-looking complexion and why she created the products in conjunction with her foundation, When Georgia Smiled, to help stop domestic violence. See Jessica’s brand-new look! How will Jerame react? Can he and Jessica put the sizzle back in their marriage?
#21 - An Accused Man Dead: Murder or Suicide?
Season 12 - Episode 124 - Aired 3/24/2014
On August 28, 2013, Traivon “Trai” Asterino, 35, was discovered face down in a field, dead from a gunshot wound to the chest. Trai’s death was ruled a suicide, but his wife, Michelle, says he wouldn’t have killed himself, and she’s accusing his ex-fiancée, Mysti, of murdering him. Michelle says since Trai’s death, Mysti has been slandering Trai’s name by claiming he was a pedophile -- an allegation Michelle says she refuses to believe. Mysti denies any involvement in Trai’s death and says the day before it happened, her 13-year old daughter revealed that Trai had been molesting her for years. Since then, she says her 9-year-old daughter -- Trai’s biological child -- has made the same claim. She says she believes Trai was consumed with guilt and took his own life. Dr. Phil sorts through the details and accusations in search of answers. Did guilt drive Trai to commit suicide, or was he murdered? Then, hear from Trai’s mother, Leonna, who makes a shocking revelation about her son’s past. What does she believe happened to Trai? Plus, Dr. Phil meets with Mysti’s daughters backstage for a very candid conversation -- and then has some strong words for both Mysti and Michelle. Can they put the mudslinging aside and focus on the welfare of the children?
#22 - Animal Obsessed
Season 12 - Episode 125 - Aired 3/25/2014
Frances, 48, says she loves being a good “mother” to her 13 pet rabbits — and does everything that she can to bond with them. She says she dresses her bunnies in matching outfits, reads them bedtime stories — and admits she even tried to breastfeed one of them. Frances’ daughter, Katarina, says her mother’s bunny obsession has gone too far and has taken a toll on their relationship — and Frances’ dating life. What does Dr. Phil think is at the root of Frances’ behavior? And, can she learn to balance a healthy family and social life with her love for her pets? Then, Gary, aka “Boomer the Dog,” says he believes he’s half human and half dog. He says he eats dog food, carries a squeaky toy, sleeps in a dog house and sometimes even wears a sheepdog costume. At 48, Gary admits he’s never had a girlfriend but insists that living the dog’s life makes him happy. Is he hiding behind his canine persona? Plus, Lori says she hates that her 20-year-old daughter, Seanna, spends her time dressing up in an animal costume and going to “furry” conventions. She says she thinks “furries” are “freaks” and “misfits,” and she wants Seanna to go to college and start a career. Seanna insists that “furries” are friendly, welcoming and safe — and says her mother needs to back off. Can Dr. Phil help this mother and daughter reach a compromise?
#23 - Sexual Standoffs
Season 12 - Episode 126 - Aired 3/26/2014
Dr. Phil offers to arrange professional help for Ryan and Skyla, and they accept. Reagan says his wife of two years, Sara, refuses to have sex with him, and the lack of attention has forced him to turn to gambling and other women “for an adrenaline rush.” He admits that he’s cheated twice, including a recent “sexting” affair with a woman, which prompted Sara to take their two kids and move out. Hear the shocking way she says she discovered the racy texts. Sara says she wants to fix their relationship, but she needs Reagan to stop acting like an impulsive teenager — and work harder to meet her emotional needs. Dr. Phil reviews the couple’s history, which includes allegations of physical abuse on both sides, as well as numerous break-ups and make-ups. Is this marriage worth saving? And, when Sara makes a confession of her own, will Reagan still want to reconcile? Then after only a year of marriage, Skyla and Ryan say they are at a sexual standoff that has pushed them to the brink of divorce. Skyla says Ryan acts like a child when she says “no” to sex — throwing tantrums that include yelling, slamming doors and punching walls. Ryan says their sex life has gone from very active to almost nonexistent, and he admits his frustration has pushed him to the edge. Can Dr. Phil help Ryan learn to control his temper — and help these newlyweds rekindle their relationship?
#24 - I Fear My Daughter Will Be Kidnapped and Forced into Sex Trafficking
Season 12 - Episode 127 - Aired 3/31/2014
Fifty-year-old Dee says that at 17, she was drugged, kidnapped and forced to work in a brothel for three months — and she fears her 20-year-old daughter, Lacey, may be headed toward the same fate. She says Lacey moved out of the house at 15, has been in abusive relationships, got pregnant for the first time at 16 and is addicted to marijuana and prescription pills — a habit Lacey supports by erotic dancing. She also says Lacey has anger issues and often lashes out at family members. What does she say started her daughter’s downward spiral? And, does Dee take any ownership in the situation? Lacey’s older sister, Devin, calls Lacey a “ticking time bomb” and says her lifestyle is putting a strain on the whole family. Who does she say she blames for her sister’s behavior? Lacey says she feels betrayed and misunderstood by her family and claims she’ll never make the same mistakes as her mother, because she’s smarter. Still, she admits she abuses drugs and needs help getting her life back on track. Dr. Phil digs into Lacey’s past and uncovers a source of pain. Will she grab onto the lifeline he offers and put an end to her self-destructive behavior?
#25 - Wedding Day Disaster: A Family Torn Apart
Season 12 - Episode 128 - Aired 4/1/2014
It was supposed to be the happiest day of her life, but last June, Lisa says her “fairytale” wedding turned into a total nightmare that has torn her family apart. Lisa and her Uncle Bill — who she says was like a father to her and even walked her down the aisle — were trying to break up a fight at the reception, when they were run over by a minivan. Bill sustained serious injuries, and is now partially paralyzed. Since the wedding, Lisa admits that her relationship with her family, and with Bill especially, has been strained — and says she just wants everyone to stop talking about the accident. Bill and his wife, Nelly, say they feel like Lisa has turned her back on them, adding insult to injury. Lisa’s grandmother, Theresa, agrees, and says she thinks Lisa only cares about her new life with her husband. Emotions run high when the family sits down together on Dr. Phil’s stage. What is the real reason Lisa is avoiding Bill? Then, Bill’s daughter, Dixie, says she is worried that her dad won’t be able to walk her down the aisle one day, and she blames Lisa. Why does she claim Lisa escalated the situation that day? Can Dr. Phil help this family heal? Then, Sarah Jakes, daughter of Bishop T.D. Jakes and author of the new book Lost & Found, opens up about her personal struggles — including getting pregnant at 13. How was she able to get her life back on track? And, what is the one message she says she would give to her younger self?