Special Forces: Why Shawn Johnson Consulted A Child Psychiatrist Before Filming?

Special Forces pushed Shawn Johnson and Andrew East far outside their comfort zone long before they set foot on the training course. The couple revealed that they took extra steps before agreeing to appear on the show, especially when it came to protecting their three young children from any emotional impact their absence might cause. Their decision came after serious discussions about the intensity of filming and the potential strain of being gone for 10 days.

Their concerns didn’t stop at physical challenges. They worried about how the experience would affect their family dynamic back home. Why did they feel the need to seek outside guidance? And what convinced them that joining the show would ultimately be the right choice? Keep on reading to know more.

Special Forces: Season 4 Ended With Shawn Johnson Completing The Course

Special Forces wrapped up its Season 4 finale by narrowing the remaining recruits to just two winners. Heading into the last day of the course, Kody Brown, Andrew East, Shawn Johnson, Brianna LaPaglia, and Gia Giudice remained in the running. The final phase involved a draining interrogation designed to push the recruits past their mental limits. Interrogators demanded plausible cover stories while using physical pressure to break their focus. Andrew East struggled during this phase.

The directing staff figured that out after Andrew didn’t respond correctly while interrogators submerged Shawn and Gia underwater. Rudy Reyes stated that Andrew failed to humanize the situation and failed to provide a convincing story. Kody followed soon after when he didn’t help his teammates during sandbag punishment. Brianna also gave up moments before the finish. This left Shawn and Gia to complete the full selection process and win the season.

Special Forces: Shawn Johnson & Andrew East Explain Why They Met A Child Psychiatrist First

Special Forces demanded extreme grit from Shawn Johnson and Andrew East, but the toughest decision happened before filming even began. Shawn revealed that she met with a child psychiatrist to ensure participating in the show wouldn’t harm their three kids, Drew, 6, Jett, 4, and Bear, 23 months. She feared the sudden 10-day absence might emotionally affect them, so the couple planned carefully. They prepped their children with conversations about the trip and filled their days with activities, family visits, and outings to keep them engaged.

Shawn later mentioned that the plan worked just as they had hoped. Their kids were able to enjoy their time with grandparents and cousins. Although the children were having their fun, their parents were facing some tough times while participating in the show. Shawn said the long days left her mentally numb. Her husband, Andrew, admitted that while he enjoyed most of the experience, the final challenge was a bit overwhelming.

Still, they both felt proud of each other for challenging themselves. Shawn said crossing the finish line gave some sort of meaning to whatever she had endured previously. Andrew then said that watching his wife compete was a highlight of his life. He even admired how she handled every challenge. Shawn also praised Andrew’s steady presence, noting that even fellow recruit Kody relied on him during vulnerable moments. Their shared experience ultimately strengthened their bond on and off the course. For the latest Special Forces tea, stay tuned to TV Season & Spoilers.