Laugh It Off: Comedy Therapy with a Real Therapist

Part stand-up showcase, part live group catharsis, Laugh It Off brings a clever, interactive twist to Bloorcourt's legendary Comedy Bar. Hosted by touring comedian Andrew Packer (Kill Tony alum, Dry Bar Comedy), the show pairs sharp stand-up talent with Andrew's actual father, Jeff Packer, a registered psychotherapist with more than 35 years of clinical experience.

The premise is simple yet effective: before the show, audience members anonymously write down genuine struggles, daily irritations, relationship grievances, or awkward secrets that have been weighing heavily on their minds. On stage, a panel of pro stand-up comics spin those anonymous submissions into spontaneous riffs and jokes, while "Therapist Jeff" chimes in with genuine clinical insight into what emotional dynamics are really at play underneath the laughter.

What to Expect The result is a remarkably empathetic, side-splitting evening where personal anxieties become communal comedy. Because submissions remain entirely anonymous, attendees can share as vulnerably or wildly as they like without the fear of being put on the spot. The format delivers big belly laughs alongside moments of unexpected validation and communal relief.

Getting There Comedy Bar is located at 945 Bloor Street West in Bloorcourt Village, conveniently situated between Ossington and Dufferin subway stations on Line 2. Arrive early to grab craft pints, canned ciders, or mixed drinks from the front bar, or explore Bloorcourt's incredible lineup of pre-show dinner spots like Lalibela Ethiopian or Paradise Grapevine.