McGraw uses a "get real" behavior modification approach to psychology, which involves making behavioral changes to improve one's life rather than dwelling on the past. On the Dr. Phil show, he applies these strategies to his guests' problems in an attempt to help them overcome issues ranging from rebellious teenagers to obesity.

Before Dr. Phil, McGraw appeared as the weekly "Relationship and Life Strategy Expert" on The Oprah Winfrey Show from 1998-2002.

McGraw has written six New York Times bestselling books and, in 2003, founded the nonprofit charity organization, The Dr. Phil Foundation to "help children and families at risk."

On April 14, 2008, Dr. Phil came under fire for reportedly posting bail for Victoria Lindsay attack suspect and potential guest Mercades Nichols. In a statement, the show conceded that staff members "went beyond their guidelines" and the show would not go forward with the episode.

In November of 2007, McGraw and his wife of over 30 years, Robin McGraw, dismissed rumors that they were getting divorced. However, on April 12, 2008, the rumors resurfaced.

In late 2007, McGraw announced that a new Dr. Phil spin off series, The Doctors, was in the works and would premiere in September of 2008.

• "I'm not the Hush-Puppies, pipe and 'Let's talk about your mother' kind of psychologist."

• "Nothing's funnier to me than laughing at myself."

• "Obesity has overtaken cancer as the No. 1 cause of avoidable, preventable death in American society. It's an epidemic-level problem."