Description: While not strictly about psychotherapy, this documentary explores the psychological interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," offering insights into how film can be used as a therapeutic tool for understanding complex human emotions and subconscious fears.

Fact: The film features no interviews with Kubrick himself, relying instead on the interpretations of film theorists and enthusiasts.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores the brain's mysteries, including episodes on how psychotherapy can alter brain function and behavior, making it a must-watch for understanding the science behind therapy.

Fact: Eagleman is known for his work in neuroscience and his ability to make complex topics accessible.

Description: This documentary takes us inside Folsom State Prison where inmates participate in intense group therapy sessions, revealing the raw emotional power of psychotherapy in a setting where vulnerability is rarely shown.

Fact: The film was shot over three days, capturing real, unscripted therapy sessions.

Description: While focusing on political ideologies, this documentary touches on the psychological manipulation and the role of fear in society, paralleling how psychotherapy can address and mitigate such fears.

Fact: The series was directed by Adam Curtis, known for his thought-provoking documentaries.

Description: This documentary series by Adam Curtis explores how Freud's theories influenced modern psychotherapy and the manipulation of public opinion, offering a historical perspective on the development of psychological practices.

Fact: It covers the rise of consumerism and the role of psychology in shaping society.

Description: Another Adam Curtis documentary, this one examines the impact of game theory and rational choice theory on society, indirectly touching on how psychotherapy can help individuals navigate these complex social dynamics.

Fact: The series critiques the application of mathematical models to human behavior.

Description: This Netflix series, while not exclusively about psychotherapy, includes episodes on memory, dreams, and mindfulness, providing a scientific backdrop to the therapeutic practices used in psychotherapy.

Fact: Each episode features expert interviews and animations to explain complex psychological concepts.

Description: This documentary examines the nature of psychopathy, exploring how therapy can or cannot help individuals with this personality disorder, offering a chilling look into the minds of those who might not benefit from traditional psychotherapy.

Fact: The film includes interviews with convicted psychopaths.

Description: Hosted by John Cleese, this documentary series explores human emotions, facial expressions, and the psychology behind them, offering a unique perspective on how psychotherapy can address emotional expression.

Fact: The series was a collaboration between the BBC and the Discovery Channel.

Description: This PBS series delves into the brain's development and function, providing a foundation for understanding how psychotherapy can influence brain chemistry and behavior.

Fact: The series won a Peabody Award for its educational value.

Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film, based on Oliver Sacks' book, provides a poignant look at the sudden awakening of catatonic patients, offering insights into the nature of consciousness and the human spirit.

Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This Netflix series explores various aspects of the human mind, including consciousness, memory, and dreams, providing a modern, accessible look at these complex phenomena.

Fact: The series features expert commentary from psychologists, neuroscientists, and other specialists.

Description: Based on the book by Norman Doidge, this documentary explores neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, and how this relates to consciousness and personal transformation.

Fact: The film features real-life stories of individuals who have rewired their brains to overcome severe disabilities.

Description: Following a massive stroke, this documentary follows the recovery of Lotje Sodderland, offering a personal and profound look at how consciousness can be altered and rebuilt.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Sodderland herself, showcasing her journey through her own lens.

Description: This documentary delves into the world of synesthesia, where individuals experience one sense through another, like seeing music or tasting words. It explores how this phenomenon challenges our understanding of perception and consciousness.

Fact: The film features interviews with renowned synesthetes like Pharrell Williams and Daniel Tammet.

Description: This film investigates the link between sensory deprivation and altered states of consciousness, including meditation and sensory deprivation tanks, to explore how these practices can lead to profound changes in perception and self-awareness.

Fact: The documentary includes a segment on the famous "Ganzfeld effect," where participants experience hallucinations due to sensory overload.

Description: This PBS series explores the development of the human brain from infancy to old age, touching on consciousness, memory, and identity, making it a comprehensive study of the mind.

Fact: The series was hosted by Alan Alda, who also contributed to the scientific discussions.

Description: Combining documentary and narrative elements, this film explores the intersection of quantum physics, consciousness, and spirituality, questioning the nature of reality itself.

Fact: The film features interviews with prominent scientists like Fred Alan Wolf and Amit Goswami.

Description: This documentary investigates the role of consciousness in healing, exploring alternative medicine and the mind-body connection, suggesting that our thoughts can influence our physical health.

Fact: The film includes interviews with leading figures in the field of energy medicine.

Description: This documentary delves into the heart's role in consciousness, exploring how emotions and intuition can guide our lives, challenging the traditional brain-centric view of consciousness.

Fact: The film includes interviews with spiritual leaders like Deepak Chopra and Gregg Braden.

Description: Through interviews with experts and historical footage, this documentary examines the behavior of corporations, drawing parallels with psychopathic personalities, offering a critique of corporate culture.

Fact: The film was nominated for over 26 international awards and won 10 of them.

Description: This film recreates the infamous 1971 psychological experiment where college students played the roles of prisoners and guards, revealing the dark side of human nature when given power. It's a stark reminder of how quickly social roles can corrupt individuals.

Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place, adding an eerie authenticity to the reenactment.

Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film is based on true events and explores the U.S. military's experiments with psychic powers, offering a humorous yet insightful look into psychological warfare.

Fact: The film stars George Clooney and Jeff Bridges, blending comedy with real-life military history.

Description: This film explores the psychological aftermath of the Indonesian mass killings in the 1960s, where perpetrators reenact their crimes, providing a chilling insight into the mind of killers.

Fact: The film won numerous awards, including the BAFTA for Best Documentary.

Description: This personal documentary looks at how conservative media can influence and change individuals, exploring the psychological mechanisms behind political polarization.

Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own experience with her father's political transformation.

Description: Adam Curtis examines the rise of the politics of fear in the West, focusing on how politicians have exploited fears to gain power, offering insights into the manipulation of public perception.

Fact: The documentary was initially banned from broadcast in the U.S. due to its controversial content.

Description: This four-part BBC documentary series explores how Freud's theories on the unconscious shaped the 20th century, particularly in the realms of politics and consumerism. It's a must-watch for understanding the manipulation of public opinion.

Fact: The series was directed by Adam Curtis, known for his unique style of weaving archival footage with narrative to explore complex ideas.

Description: This documentary investigates the impact of social media on society, focusing on how algorithms manipulate user behavior, highlighting the psychological effects of digital addiction.

Fact: It features former tech insiders who reveal the inner workings of social media companies.

Description: Focusing on American masculinity, this documentary examines how societal expectations shape male identity, leading to issues like violence and emotional suppression.

Fact: It features interviews with psychologists, educators, and sports coaches to provide a broad perspective on the topic.

Description: This documentary revisits several key psychological experiments, including Milgram's obedience study, to explore how people conform to authority and societal norms, often at the expense of their own moral compass.

Fact: The film includes interviews with participants of the original experiments, providing firsthand accounts of their experiences.

Description: This film chronicles the life of Paramahansa Yogananda, the Indian yogi who introduced millions to the teachings of meditation and Kriya Yoga, emphasizing the quest for spiritual enlightenment.

Fact: Yogananda's book "Autobiography of a Yogi" has been translated into 45 languages and is considered a spiritual classic.

Description: This documentary explores the concept of the "Law of Attraction," suggesting that positive thinking can manifest one's desires, leading to a journey of self-empowerment and personal growth.

Fact: The film became a cultural phenomenon, spawning books, seminars, and a global movement around its teachings.

Description: This series of interviews between Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers explores the universal themes in myths and how they reflect human experiences, offering viewers a path to understanding their own life's journey.

Fact: Campbell's work influenced many, including George Lucas, who used Campbell's ideas in creating the Star Wars saga.

Description: Set inside Folsom Prison, this documentary captures a four-day group therapy session where inmates and volunteers confront their deepest emotions, leading to moments of intense self-discovery and healing.

Fact: The film was shot over three years, and the therapy sessions were real, unscripted, and deeply emotional, providing an authentic look into the lives of the participants.

Description: Two brothers embark on a journey to understand the essence of human existence by living with homeless people, visiting leprosy patients, and exploring the lives of those in extreme conditions, seeking to find meaning in their own lives.

Fact: The film was made by Grassroots Films, a company known for producing documentaries that explore deep human themes.

Description: Dr. Wayne Dyer explores the spiritual shift from ambition to meaning, guiding viewers through a journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of a more fulfilling life.

Fact: The film was inspired by Dyer's book of the same name, which became a bestseller, reflecting his transition from self-help to spiritual guidance.

Description: After a personal crisis, Tom Shadyac, the director, sets out to explore what's wrong with the world and what can be done to fix it, leading to a profound understanding of human nature and interconnectedness.

Fact: Shadyac, known for directing comedies like "Ace Ventura," sold his mansion and donated much of his wealth to charity following the insights gained from making this film.

Description: An Indian-American filmmaker poses as a wise guru from the East, only to discover that his teachings, though initially fake, lead to genuine self-discovery for both him and his followers.

Fact: The film raises questions about the nature of spirituality and the role of gurus in modern society.

Description: This documentary explores how trauma shapes our lives and how understanding it can lead to profound personal transformation. It features Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned expert on addiction and trauma, who shares his insights on healing.

Fact: The film was inspired by Maté's book "In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts" and has been praised for its compassionate approach to understanding trauma.

Description: This film blends science, spirituality, and philosophy to explore how our thoughts and perceptions shape our reality, offering a unique perspective on self-discovery through quantum physics.

Fact: The film features interviews with leading scientists and philosophers, making it a blend of documentary and narrative storytelling.

Description: While not a traditional documentary, this animated film from Pixar provides a creative and insightful look at how emotions and memories interact within the mind, making it a unique addition to this list.

Fact: The film was praised for its accurate depiction of psychological concepts, earning it an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores the brain's role in shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This documentary series is included for its deep dive into the neuroscience behind thinking.

Fact: Eagleman is known for his work in sensory substitution, which is explored in one of the episodes.

Description: This series delves into various aspects of the human mind, from memory to dreams, providing a comprehensive look at how our brains function. It's a perfect fit for this collection as it directly addresses different facets of thinking and cognition.

Fact: The series was produced by Vox Media and features narration by Emma Stone, making it both informative and engaging.

Description: While focusing on evolution, this documentary also delves into how Darwin's thinking and observations shaped our understanding of human cognition and behavior.

Fact: The series was presented by Richard Dawkins, a prominent evolutionary biologist and thinker.

Description: This PBS documentary series examines the development of the brain from infancy to old age, offering insights into how our thinking evolves over a lifetime.

Fact: The series was a collaboration between PBS, WNET, and the David S. and Ruth L. Gottesman Institute for Neuroscience.

Description: This documentary series explores the complexities of human psychology, including how we think, learn, and remember, making it a valuable addition to this collection.

Fact: It was produced by the BBC and features interviews with leading psychologists and neuroscientists.

Description: This documentary investigates the potential of the human mind to overcome physical and psychological barriers, showcasing extraordinary feats of mental strength.

Fact: It includes stories of individuals with exceptional mental abilities, like synesthetes and memory champions.

Description: This documentary explores how our thinking influences financial decisions, offering insights into behavioral economics and the psychology of money.

Fact: It features interviews with Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman, known for his work on the psychology of judgment and decision-making.

Description: This series traces the history of brain research, focusing on how our understanding of the mind has evolved, which is crucial for understanding modern thinking processes.

Fact: It was presented by Michael Mosley, who has a background in medicine and science journalism.

Description: This documentary explores the cognitive revolution that occurred around 50,000 years ago, examining how human thinking changed dramatically.

Fact: It was part of the NOVA series, known for its scientific documentaries.

Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film explores the concept of intuition through the eyes of a young boy who sees dead people. Its inclusion in this list highlights the cultural impact of intuition in storytelling.

Fact: The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for M. Night Shyamalan.

Description: While primarily about the law of attraction, "The Secret" also touches on intuition as a tool for manifesting desires and understanding the universe's hidden messages.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book of the same name by Rhonda Byrne.

Description: Based on the novel by James Redfield, this film explores spiritual insights and intuitive awakenings through an adventure in Peru, highlighting the role of intuition in personal transformation.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Peru to capture the authentic setting of the story.

Description: This documentary blends quantum physics with spirituality, exploring how intuition might be linked to the quantum world. It challenges viewers to rethink their understanding of reality.

Fact: The film features interviews with scientists like Dr. Fred Alan Wolf and Dr. Amit Goswami.

Description: This film follows the journey of individuals who have honed their intuitive abilities, showcasing how intuition can lead to profound life changes and personal growth.

Fact: The film includes insights from renowned intuitive Penny Pierce.

Description: This documentary investigates how intuition has influenced major decisions in business, science, and personal life, featuring interviews with experts and everyday people.

Fact: It includes a segment on how intuition played a role in the development of the iPhone.

Description: This film delves into the world of psychic phenomena, exploring how intuition might be a form of extrasensory perception, supported by scientific research and personal accounts.

Fact: The documentary features a segment on the CIA's remote viewing program.

Description: Focusing on the business world, this documentary shows how intuition can be a competitive advantage, with interviews from successful entrepreneurs and CEOs.

Fact: It includes a case study on how Steve Jobs used intuition in his leadership at Apple.

Description: This documentary explores the scientific basis of intuition, looking at brain studies and psychological experiments to understand how intuition works.

Fact: The film features experiments conducted at the University of Edinburgh's Koestler Parapsychology Unit.

Description: This film investigates the role of intuition in survival, creativity, and decision-making, featuring stories from around the world that showcase the power of the sixth sense.

Fact: It includes a segment on how intuition has saved lives in natural disasters.

Description: This documentary investigates the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, exploring how they can alter consciousness and potentially treat mental health issues.

Fact: It features interviews with leading experts in the field of psychedelic research.

Description: This documentary delves into the effects of DMT, a powerful psychedelic compound, and its potential to alter consciousness. It features interviews with scientists, researchers, and individuals who have experienced DMT.

Fact: The film was inspired by Dr. Rick Strassman's book of the same name, which details his groundbreaking research into DMT.

Description: This film explores the life of a man who, after a traumatic brain injury, experiences a profound shift in his perception of reality, leading to a deeper understanding of consciousness.

Fact: The documentary was a personal project for the director, who is the brother of the subject.

Description: It examines the use of Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, for spiritual and psychological healing, showcasing its impact on consciousness.

Fact: The film includes footage from ceremonies in Peru, providing a rare glimpse into indigenous practices.

Description: Focused on the intersection of science and spirituality, this film looks at how meditation and altered states can lead to profound insights about the universe.

Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the Dalai Lama's office.

Description: A companion piece to "DMT: The Spirit Molecule," this documentary provides additional insights into the DMT experience and its implications for consciousness.

Fact: It includes new interviews and footage not seen in the original film.

Description: This film explores lucid dreaming as a form of altered consciousness, showing how individuals can control and interact with their dreams.

Fact: The director himself is an avid lucid dreamer and shares his personal experiences.

Description: Focusing on 5-MeO-DMT, this documentary explores its use in spiritual practices and its effects on consciousness, often described as a "God experience."

Fact: The film includes interviews with shamans and practitioners from various cultures.

Description: This documentary examines the concept of self through various altered states, from meditation to psychedelics, questioning the nature of identity.

Fact: It features a diverse range of experts from psychology, philosophy, and spirituality.

Description: This film explores the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality, focusing on how altered states can reveal deeper truths about the mind.

Fact: It includes cutting-edge research from leading institutions around the world.

Description: This documentary chronicles the life of Daniel Johnston, a cult musician and artist, showcasing his creative genius alongside his battle with mental illness.

Fact: The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: While primarily about sushi, this documentary delves into the artistry and dedication of Jiro Ono, a sushi master, showcasing the creative process in culinary arts.

Fact: Jiro Ono was awarded three Michelin stars, making him the oldest chef to receive this honor.

Description: A portrait of Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, known for his provocative art and activism, this film examines his creative process and the political implications of his work.

Fact: The film was banned in China, reflecting the artist's contentious relationship with the government.

Description: A deep dive into the life and work of performance artist Marina Abramović, exploring her radical approach to art and her influence on the creative community.

Fact: The film includes footage from Abramović's retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Description: A poignant look at the lives of Ushio and Noriko Shinohara, a Japanese artist couple living in New York, exploring their art, marriage, and the creative process.

Fact: The film won the U.S. Documentary Directing Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This documentary follows Teri Horton, a truck driver who discovers a painting she believes to be by Jackson Pollock, exploring the art world's gatekeeping and the nature of authenticity.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life story and includes interviews with art experts and critics.

Description: A unique film where director Lars von Trier challenges filmmaker Jørgen Leth to remake his 1967 short film "The Perfect Human" under increasingly difficult constraints.

Fact: The film was shot in five different countries, each representing one of the obstructions.

Description: This film blurs the line between documentary and art, following Thierry Guetta, an eccentric Frenchman, as he becomes an accidental artist in the world of street art.

Fact: The film was nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 83rd Academy Awards.

Description: A touching exploration of the life and work of Francesca Woodman, a young photographer, through the eyes of her family, revealing the creative and emotional struggles of an artist.

Fact: The film was screened at the Sundance Film Festival and received critical acclaim for its intimate portrayal.

Description: This documentary explores the neuroscience behind creativity, featuring interviews with artists, scientists, and psychologists to understand how the brain generates new ideas.

Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the National Science Foundation and includes insights from renowned neuroscientists.

Description: Robert S. McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, reflects on his life, decisions, and the emotional weight of war, offering insights into regret, responsibility, and the complexity of human emotions in conflict.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and McNamara's reflections are often used in discussions about military ethics.

Description: Focusing on the Golden Gate Bridge, this documentary explores the emotions surrounding suicide, capturing the stories of those who jumped, those who were saved, and the witnesses.

Fact: The film was controversial for its method of filming, which included capturing actual suicides, leading to ethical debates in documentary filmmaking.

Description: This film captures the intense emotions of competition, obsession, and the quest for recognition in the world of competitive arcade gaming.

Fact: The film has become a cult classic, often cited for its portrayal of underdog stories and the human drive for achievement.

Description: This heart-wrenching documentary captures the raw emotions of grief, love, and the quest for justice as a father documents his son's life for his unborn grandson.

Fact: The film was initially intended as a private video but became a public documentary due to its powerful narrative.

Description: While primarily about dolphin hunting, this documentary also explores the emotions of empathy, anger, and activism as activists fight to stop the slaughter.

Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, highlighting its impact on global awareness of dolphin conservation.

Description: While not a traditional documentary, this animated film by Pixar explores the inner workings of emotions in a way that's both educational and entertaining, making it a perfect fit for this collection.

Fact: The film was developed with the help of psychologists to ensure the portrayal of emotions was accurate. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Description: Focusing on the emotional trauma of sexual assault within the U.S. military, this documentary sheds light on a hidden epidemic, exploring the emotions of survivors and their fight for justice.

Fact: The film led to significant policy changes in the military regarding sexual assault reporting and handling.

Description: This film delves into the emotions of guilt, denial, and the psychological impact of violence through the reenactment of the Indonesian mass killings by the perpetrators themselves.

Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and has been praised for its innovative approach to documentary filmmaking.

Description: This documentary examines the societal pressures on boys to conform to traditional masculinity, exploring the emotional toll this takes on them.

Fact: The film was directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, who also directed "Miss Representation," another documentary on gender stereotypes.

Description: This documentary captures the hope, resilience, and emotional struggles of children born to prostitutes in Calcutta, as they find solace and expression through photography.

Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and the project led to the creation of the Kids with Cameras Foundation.

Description: This film recreates the infamous 1971 experiment where college students were assigned roles as prisoners or guards, leading to shocking results on how quickly people conform to their roles.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual basement of Jordan Hall at Stanford University where the original experiment took place.

Description: A biographical drama about Stanley Milgram, focusing on his controversial obedience experiments, exploring the ethical dilemmas and the impact of his work on society.

Fact: The film uses a unique narrative style, with Milgram often breaking the fourth wall to address the audience directly.

Description: A four-part documentary series by Adam Curtis that explores how Freud's theories on the unconscious influenced 20th-century politics and consumerism, touching on psychological manipulation.

Fact: The series uses archival footage and interviews to weave a compelling narrative about the manipulation of the masses.

Description: While not directly about psychological experiments, this documentary explores the psychological manipulation behind the diet industry, touching on social psychology and behavior modification.

Fact: It features interviews with psychologists and industry insiders, shedding light on the psychological tactics used.

Description: This documentary delves into various psychological experiments, including the Milgram experiment, the Stanford Prison Experiment, and the Asch conformity experiments, providing a comprehensive overview.

Fact: It features interviews with participants and psychologists who were involved in or studied these experiments.

Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at the Stanford Prison Experiment, including interviews with participants and Dr. Philip Zimbardo, offering insights into the experiment's aftermath.

Fact: It includes footage from the original experiment, making it a primary source for understanding the event.

Description: A documentary that captures the original Milgram experiment, showing how ordinary people could be led to administer what they believed were painful electric shocks to others.

Fact: The film was initially controversial, leading to ethical debates about the treatment of participants.

Description: This documentary examines Solomon Asch's experiments on conformity, where individuals conformed to incorrect answers given by a majority, highlighting the power of social pressure.

Fact: The experiments were simple but revealed profound insights into human behavior.

Description: This series includes segments on psychological experiments, particularly focusing on mind control, obedience, and the nature of consciousness, offering a broader look at psychological research.

Fact: It was produced by the BBC and covers a wide range of psychological topics.

Description: This documentary explores how situational factors can influence behavior, drawing from various psychological experiments to illustrate the concept of situational ethics.

Fact: It includes reenactments and interviews with psychologists to explain complex psychological phenomena in an accessible way.