The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast

Replaying your worst interview answer on a loop? You're not alone and it probably says less about you than you think. In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores why we ruminate over interview mistakes, the difference between a poor answer and a poor candidate, and how to use post-interview embarrassment as information rather than punishment.

Ever wonder how much of your stress is actually yours or whether you've quietly picked up someone else's expectations along the way? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent explores where stress really comes from, the difference between acute and chronic stress, and the hidden costs of ignoring it, from sleep and relationships to burnout. She shares practical ways to audit your own pressure points, spot the "shoulds" driving your decisions, and figure out what's genuinely within your control. #StressManagement #PsychologyActually #MentalHealthPodcast Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:10 Where is your stress really coming from? 03:40 Peer pressure and the comparison trap 06:15 Are you ready, or just chancing it? 08:20 The "shoulds" that add up 10:05 Auditing what you can actually control 12:30 Acute vs chronic stress 15:50 Noticing stress in your body and mind 17:40 A quick physical health check-in 19:15 The real cost of ignoring stress: sleep 23:00 The real cost of ignoring stress: relationships and joy 25:50 Burnout and taking time off 27:45 Quick-fire reflections 30:20 Closing thoughts

What if the person you've stopped trusting is yourself? In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores why self-doubt often traces back to childhood experiences, and how to gently begin trusting your own judgement, hopes, and dreams again.#InnerWork #TrustYourself #mentalhealthawarenessGrab Simon Squibb's What's Your Dream book: https://amzn.to/4d57H3cAnother Inner Work Episode I think you'll love: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/bd386694-3b7e-4400-b628-b7bad1bedd74/ or on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvlVQo3ORrs

Why can being signed off work feel like you're doing something wrong, even when you know you're genuinely unwell? Resting can become tangled up with guilt, productivity, and self-worth. In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores why we compare ourselves to colleagues, feel the need to prove we're ill, struggle to switch off from work, and find it difficult to give ourselves permission to rest and recover.#WorkplaceMentalHealth #BurnoutRecovery #SelfWorthListen or watch next: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9883f9ec-d1f3-4669-b3aa-57b191b26507/ or YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp_61T3Jf8I

The Traitors is a game of lies, but what does it really reveal about how our brains decide who to trust? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Ellie Buckley to explore first impressions, thin slice judgements, confidence versus competence, and why our instincts often fail us. From roundtable pressure to the risks of over-trusting AI, they unpack how trust is built, broken, and manipulated both on reality TV and in everyday life. #PsychologyActually #TheTraitors #TrustAndDeception Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: The Psychology Behind The Traitors 01:09 Meet Dr Ellie Buckley 01:41 Quick-Fire Round: Life Inside The Traitors 04:03 Ellie and Ross: The Secret Couple 06:50 Life Inside the Castle 09:29 Trusting Your Own Instincts 12:19 Thin-Slice Judgements and First Impressions 14:46 In-Group Bias and Social Influence 16:28 Suggestibility and Psychological Safety 17:31 How Likeability Builds Trust 18:20 Confidence vs Competence 20:47 Why Our Judgements Can Be Wrong 22:21 Trust, Mistakes and Real Relationships 23:31 How Trust Is Built Through Evidence 24:02 The Psychology of Team Building 25:29 Trust After The Traitors 26:18 Can We Trust AI? 27:16 AI Therapy and Overtrusting AI 29:16 Why Expertise Helps Spot AI's Mistakes 30:39 Can We Trust People in Research? Other episode I think you'll love: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/18bda108-fc14-4d33-9f8c-a4d6e038f4b3/ or on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwb4Llv0hZc Links:

When depression makes even the smallest things feel enormous, knowing where to start can feel impossible. But sometimes, one minute is enough to begin making a small shift. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent explores five one-minute habits that helped her with depression and low mood. She discusses behavioural activation and why you may need to take action before motivation returns. You'll discover simple ways to clean something, go outside, connect with another living thing, complete one tiny task and practise purposeful self-care. Dr Marianne also explores sick leave, all-or-nothing thinking, self-worth and how small everyday actions can support recovery from depression. #Depression #MentalHealth #Psychology Highlights 00:00 Introduction: Why Small Things Feel Enormous 02:05 Behavioural Activation: You Don't Need to Feel Better First 04:18 My Own Experience With Low Mood 05:32 Technique 1: Clean Something, Clean Anything 09:14 Technique 2: Go Outside 13:42 Technique 3: Interact With Another Living Thing 17:08 Technique 4: Complete One Tiny Task 19:45 Technique 5: Treat Yourself Purposefully 23:12 A Personal Audit: Is Your Time Off Actually Helping? 26:18 All-or-Nothing Thinking and Self-Worth 28:55 Closing Thoughts Watch next: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N40b5TmxQko Also: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOXhljPY558 Links:

One piece of criticism. A thousand catastrophic thoughts. Sound familiar? In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent unpacks why work feedback can spiral into self-doubt, how to separate thoughts from facts, and practical ways to steady yourself, from breathing techniques to knowing when to lean on a union, HR, or a trusted person in your corner. #InnerWork #WorkplaceCriticism #mentalwellbeing Watch next: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcP4SZto1Ww

Could one badly judged email, social media post, or rough patch at work put your psychology career at risk before it even begins? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent joins Nicholas Stöckling to explore fitness-to-practice proceedings for trainee psychologists and other pre-qualified healthcare professionals. They unpack what actually triggers FTP concerns, how the process differs across universities, why communication issues and unmanaged health conditions are common flashpoints, and how neurodivergent trainees can be disproportionately affected. Nicholas shares practical advice on social media conduct, self-disclosure, engaging with proceedings, and when to seek legal support. A must-listen for trainees, supervisors, and anyone supporting students through clinical training. #FitnessToPractice #TraineePsychologist #ClinicalPsychology #FitnessToPractise Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:20 The pre-qualification "grey zone" explained 01:52 Why there's no standardised university FTP process 04:15 Juggling training, placements and personal life 05:34 Common examples of FTP issues for trainees 11:01 What kind of psychologist should training produce? 12:20 Cultural norms, swearing and miscommunication 15:44 The stress of undergoing an FTP investigation 16:51 Are universities there to support or to protect the public? 20:09 Why FTP processes vary so much between universities 22:01 Employer vs university: who's really accountable? 27:01 Can stage one concerns be resolved without escalating? 27:45 How careful do trainees need to be on social media? 29:31 Does a "views are my own" disclaimer protect you? 31:15 Do failed assignments lead to fitness to practise? 34:11 AI note-taking: help or new FTP risk? 36:16 Can a trainee refuse to engage with proceedings? 37:57 Should you self-disclose struggles early? 42:08 Advice for trainees facing FTP concerns 45:49 Where to find Nicholas Sterling Links:

Why did no one see who he really was sooner? The answer might be charisma itself.In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent reflects on Netflix's Worst Ex Ever and unpacks why charm, confidence, and love bombing can quietly shut down our ability to spot red flags.#Charisma #RedFlags #LoveBombing

Could you spot a psychopath before it's too late, or does their charm switch off the very part of your brain that would warn you?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Emma Kavanagh to explore the psychology of psychopathy, why charismatic people can trigger the "guru effect" in our brains, and how love bombing, gaslighting, and trauma bonding trap people in damaging relationships. Emma, author of The Psychopath Effect, explains the real traits behind psychopathy, meanness, boldness, and disinhibition and why psychopaths are far more likely to be charming colleagues or partners than violent criminals. They discuss what it's like growing up with a psychopathic parent, how psychopaths behave differently depending on your value to them, and the subtle nonverbal signals that can give them away. A fascinating, myth-busting conversation for anyone interested in psychology, relationships, and personal safety.#Psychopathy #Psychology #LoveBombing00:00 Introduction00:37 Psychopathy myth vs fact quickfire round01:51 What is the Psychopath Effect?05:37 Why subclinical psychopathic traits affect everyone07:34 Growing up with a psychopathic parent11:37 Setting boundaries as an adult child14:10 Why individuation threatens psychopaths17:03 Can you spot a psychopath immediately?20:32 The "guru effect" and charisma on the brain22:54 Warning signs and interpersonal space23:54 Why psychopaths can be selectively empathic25:24 Upward licking, downward kicking at work25:55 Hand gestures, cognitive load and persuasion29:31 Nonverbal cues: the Duchenne smile31:35 Psychopathy, personality disorders and diagnosis37:09 Love bombing explained41:41 Recognising patterns in true crime documentaries45:35 Quickfire: common myths about psychopathy46:09 Why it's hard to leave a psychopathic partner46:57 Understanding trauma bonding50:22 Why psychopaths can't sustain kindness52:39 Where to find Dr Emma Kavanagh

What if the answer that changed your life wasn't actually the final answer? Sometimes the biggest breakthrough begins with questioning a single "no".In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores why rejection hurts, how our brains respond to hearing "no", and why curiosity, perseverance, and self-reflection can sometimes open doors you thought were closed.#Rejection #PersonalGrowth #InnerWork

What if the biggest obstacle to becoming a psychologist isn't your qualifications, but simply not knowing all your options? This little-known route could save aspiring psychologists years of time, money, and unnecessary setbacks.In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Esther Teo to explore the BPS Assessment of Equivalence, how it can provide an alternative route to Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), and why perseverance can make all the difference. Esther shares her personal journey, explains who may be eligible, discusses common application pitfalls, and reveals how one phone call changed the course of her psychology career. Whether you're considering clinical psychology or another HCPC practitioner psychologist pathway, this episode offers valuable guidance for aspiring psychologists.#PsychologyCareers #ClinicalPsychology #BPS #GBCHighlights:00:00 Introduction00:59 What is the BPS Assessment of Equivalence?02:10 What is GBC and why does it matter?03:59 Why Esther didn't have GBC05:07 Neuroscience to psychology06:36 Discovering the Assessment of Equivalence08:40 Why more psychologists should know about this route09:23 Esther's free GBC guide10:26 What Esther wishes she'd known sooner11:01 Rejection, perseverance and getting GBC15:03 Why giving up could cost you your dream career17:03 Managing the emotional impact of career decisions17:56 Applying for Clinical Psychology training20:30 Why perseverance matters in psychology21:51 Finding the right career path22:52 Connecting with people as a psychologist24:59 Final thoughts

What if the thing you've been searching for isn't confidence or happiness, but a genuine sense of safety? Feeling safe can transform how you think, connect, and experience the world.In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores why psychological safety is essential for emotional wellbeing, how our nervous system learns to expect danger, and why finding moments of safety can be the first step towards healing.#PsychologicalSafety #MentalHealth #InnerWork

Could one of the most effective wellbeing tools already be sitting in a knitting bag? Sometimes the simplest habits can have a bigger psychological impact than we expect. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Mia Hobbs and Dr Paula Redmond to explore how knitting and crochet can support mental health, emotional wellbeing and self-care through evidence-informed psychological principles. #MentalHealth #Knitting #Psychology Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Why knitting benefits mental health 04:19 The rise of analogue hobbies 05:00 Why younger people are embracing knitting 09:13 Learning to knit from childhood 11:23 Knitting, safety and self-compassion 15:40 Knitting during grief and psychological distress 16:25 Is knitting an affordable wellbeing tool? 18:18 The evidence for knitting and mental health 20:38 Challenging the "grandma hobby" stereotype 21:58 Can knitting support hand health? 23:36 Creative Restoration and therapeutic knitting 25:54 Knitting, attention and screen time 29:39 Why I Knit podcast 30:43 When Work Hurts podcast 32:10 Where to learn more Links:

Trauma doesn't always look the way people expect. Sometimes it shows up as anxiety, depression, emotional numbness or unhealthy coping strategies instead. In the Episode, Dr Marianne Trent explores why we avoid emotional pain, how trauma affects the brain, and why therapies such as EMDR can help you reconnect with yourself and move towards healing. #Trauma #EMDR #MentalHealth

What if trauma isn't over because your brain still thinks you're in danger? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by clinical psychologist and EMDR trainer Dr Alex Button to explore how EMDR therapy works, why PTSD develops, and how trauma can affect grief, anxiety and everyday life. Discover the three core PTSD symptom groups, the difference between big and small traumas, and why EMDR helps the brain recognise: "That was then; this is now." #EMDR #Trauma #PTSDHighlights: 00:00 Introduction 00:30 What is EMDR therapy? 00:43 The history of EMDR 02:00 How trauma affects the brain 03:15 Why trauma feels like it's happening again 05:20 Why EMDR isn't just eye movements 07:15 How bilateral stimulation works 09:12 PTSD symptoms explained 14:56 Trauma and grief 19:06 How EMDR helps people reconnect with life 23:19 A powerful EMDR client story 24:35 Why trauma still feels present 27:31 Is EMDR overwhelming? 31:21 Why proper EMDR training matters 32:56 EMDR qualifications explained 37:04 Dr Alex Button's EMDR training 41:29 Where to learn more Links:

Are you always trying to improve yourself or is it time to accept where you are? In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores self-acceptance, perfectionism, alcohol, and the pressure to keep optimising ourselves.

Most people think Tourette's is just swearing, but that's one of the biggest myths. In this episode, Dr Marianne Trent and clinical psychologist Dr Jason Codner explore what Tourette's syndrome is really like, how it affects everyday life, common misconceptions, diagnosis, treatment, and the support available. #tourettesyndrome #MentalHealth #psychology #tourettesHighlights 00:00 Introduction 00:50 What Is Tourette's Syndrome? 02:01 Why Tourette's Is Now Called a Neurodevelopmental Condition 02:44 How Tourette's Affects Everyday Life 05:01 The BBC Awards Incident & Common Misunderstandings 08:43 Media Portrayals & Public Perception 11:35 Can Tourette's Be Funny? 13:34 Living, Working & Thriving with Tourette's 16:11 Inclusion in Psychology & Healthcare 17:40 Can Tourette's Be Treated? 22:51 Who Is More Likely to Develop Tourette's? 24:36 How Is Tourette's Diagnosed? 27:49 Relationships, Parenthood & Tourette's 30:13 Conditions That Can Look Like Tourette's 31:39 Managing Severe Tics & Self-Injury 34:05 New Treatments & Wearable Technology 36:35 The Biggest Myths About Tourette's 38:20 Final Thoughts & Resources Links:

What if the story you've been telling yourself isn't true? In this episode, Dr Marianne Trent explores why change is possible, how curiosity can transform your life, and why seeking the right support could change everything.

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What do you do when someone you love is struggling, but you can't fix what they're going through? In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores the importance of holding hope, focusing on what we can control and responding to distress with compassion rather than shame.Drawing on psychology, systemic therapy and personal reflections, Marianne discusses how curiosity, understanding and compassion can help us support others while accepting the limits of what we can change.#innerwork #compassionovershame #supportingsomeoneyoulove

What actually helps someone recover from anorexia? After developing anorexia as a teenager, Tiffany Luxford spent approximately two years receiving inpatient treatment. Today, she is fully recovered and using her lived experience to improve how eating disorders are understood and supported. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Tiffany joins Dr Marianne Trent to share what genuinely helped her recover, what she wishes had been different during treatment, and why compassion, connection and feeling understood matter. Together, they explore the emotional distress behind eating disorders, the role of trauma, control and self-criticism, and why separating the person from the eating disorder can help reduce shame and blame. Whether you have experienced an eating disorder, are supporting someone through recovery or work within mental health services, this conversation offers valuable insight and hope. #AnorexiaRecovery #EatingDisorderRecovery #PsychologyActually Highlights 00:00 Understanding the person behind the eating disorder 01:02 Avoiding triggering imagery and numbers 02:43 Eating disorders are more than physical symptoms 03:31 Understanding distress and control 05:03 Loving food while living with anorexia 06:19 Tiffany's experience of anorexia and inpatient treatment 08:59 How compassion can support recovery 09:14 Separating the person from the eating disorder 10:36 What Tiffany needed during treatment 12:35 The role of trauma 13:33 What full recovery feels like 14:53 Can eating disorder thoughts return? 16:16 Rebuilding a healthier relationship with exercise 17:14 Moving beyond comparison 19:38 Externalising the eating disorder 22:35 Reducing shame and self-blame 23:41 The value of lived experience 25:45 Why recovery stories matter 28:21 Tiffany's TEDx talk and The Recovery Wave 30:07 Final thoughts Links:

Are you waiting to be chosen… or are you choosing yourself?How often do we wait for permission before pursuing the life we really want? Whether it's applying for a new job, reaching out to someone we admire, asking for help or taking the first step towards a goal, it can feel safer to wait for someone else to notice us.In this episode of Inner Work, I reflect on one of the biggest ideas to emerge from my conversation with Clinical Psychologist Cliff Hawkins: the importance of agency, self-belief and learning to raise your hand rather than waiting to be picked.Together, we explore why confidence often follows action, how small acts of courage can change the direction of our lives, and why nobody is coming to rescue us—but that might actually be empowering rather than frightening.If you've ever wondered whether you're holding yourself back, this gentle reflection is for you.

Are soft skills more important than qualifications?When people think about building a successful psychology career, it's easy to focus on degrees, experience and technical expertise. But what if the qualities that matter most are the ones we don't always put on our CV?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I'm joined by Clinical Psychologist Cliff Hawkins to explore why reliability, curiosity, communication, professionalism and emotional intelligence may be the real ingredients of a successful psychology career.Whether you're an aspiring psychologist hoping to secure your first Assistant Psychologist post, a trainee navigating placements, or an experienced clinician wanting to reflect on what makes teams truly thrive, this conversation is packed with practical insights and honest reflections.We explore why fresh perspectives matter, how transferable skills can become your biggest strength, why confidence sometimes grows through taking opportunities rather than waiting for them, and why being dependable may be one of the most underrated professional skills of all.If you've ever wondered whether you're "enough", questioned what you really bring to a team, or worried that everyone else knows more than you do, this episode is for you.⏱️ Highlights00:00 Why soft skills might matter more than qualifications00:45 Meet Clinical Psychologist Cliff Hawkins01:45 Why trainees and assistants bring fresh thinking to teams03:18 Feeling like "just the trainee"04:44 Why your value isn't defined by your job title06:04 When soft skills become your greatest strength06:47 Why "soft skills" aren't soft at all08:19 Reliability, respect and professional relationships09:43 Marianne reflects on breaking cycles around punctuality11:37 Seizing opportunities and building confidence13:21 Creating your own opportunities in psychology15:24 Why being yourself matters more than sounding perfect16:34 Keeping promises and building trust18:23 The McKinsey 7S Model explained20:49 Using soft skills to strengthen psychology interviews21:31 Where to find Cliff Hawkins22:00 Marianne's reflections and resources for aspiring psychologistsLinks:

In this week's Inner Work, I reflect on the surprising grief that can emerge when we begin to understand our patterns more clearly. Sometimes the sadness isn't about what happened. It's about what didn't happen.The support, safety, consistency or care that might have changed everything.We explore grief, boundaries, childhood experiences and what happens when we begin to realise that our needs were valid all along.These Inner Work videos were previously members only but I have decided to share them with you so thanks for being here.

Why do so many of us feel responsible for everyone else's emotions?Have you ever found yourself saying yes when you wanted to say no? Feeling guilty for setting boundaries? Or carrying the weight of other people's feelings long after the conversation has ended?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I am joined by forensic psychologist Dr Nicole Harvey to explore the psychology of people pleasing, emotional responsibility, boundaries and the surprisingly powerful "dog poo bag" analogy.We discuss why people pleasers often become exhausted, overwhelmed and resentful, how childhood experiences can shape our relationship patterns, and why saying no can feel genuinely frightening for some people. We also explore complex trauma, coercive control, workplace dynamics, anger, self-worth and the process of learning to put down emotional baggage that was never yours to carry in the first place.Whether you're a recovering people pleaser, someone who struggles with boundaries, or simply curious about relationship psychology, this episode offers practical insights and plenty of moments that may feel uncomfortably familiar.Timestamps:00:00 The dog poo bag analogy explained01:23 Why Dr Nicole Harvey became interested in people pleasing02:36 Carrying emotions that don't belong to you03:29 How resentment quietly builds04:28 Early signs you may be a people pleaser05:46 Saying yes when you really mean no06:45 How people pleasing shows up at work07:56 Power dynamics, managers and authority figures08:20 Why saying no can feel genuinely frightening09:20 Anger, boundaries and complex trauma10:07 Losing yourself in relationships11:15 Parenting, autonomy and enmeshment12:40 How people pleasing develops in childhood13:45 The impact on physical and emotional health14:26 Recovery as a lifelong process15:40 The Dog Poo Bag Test16:36 Final reflections and next stepsLinks:

What if your nervous system is paying attention to far more than you realise?In this week's Inner Work, I reflect on my conversation with Health Psychologist Dr Sula Windgassen and explore the idea that our bodies are constantly taking in messages about safety, worth and belonging.We consider what happens when we repeatedly dismiss our own feelings, stay silent when something doesn't sit right, or fill our environments with content that leaves us feeling "less than".This isn't about dramatic life changes. It's about the small moments of self-advocacy, self-respect and self-compassion that can quietly reshape how we experience ourselves and the world around us.Highlights00:00 Your nervous system is always listening00:32 The cost of invalidating yourself01:01 Self-advocacy and safe relationships02:06 Doomscrolling and protecting your nervous system02:38 Retraining your algorithm03:11 Final reflectionsMy Inner Work series is a space to pause and think more deeply about yourself. I explore where those roles come from… and whether they're still serving you now.These videos were previously members only but I have decided to share them with you so thanks for being here.

When doctors tell us our tests are normal, many people hear a very different message: "It's all in your head." But what if that phrase is based on a complete misunderstanding of how the mind and body actually work together?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I am joined by Health Psychologist Dr Sula Windgassen, author of It's All In Your Body, to explore chronic illness, pain, recurrent UTIs, adenomyosis, periods, stress, nervous system regulation and the powerful relationship between physical and psychological health.We discuss why so many people feel dismissed when living with chronic symptoms, how medical uncertainty can become psychologically overwhelming, and why understanding the mind-body connection can be deeply validating rather than blaming.Whether you're living with chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how psychology and physical health interact, this episode offers practical insights and hope.Highlights00:00 Why "it's all in your head" misses the point01:06 Dr Sula's personal journey with chronic illness02:51 Why the book is called It's All In Your Body04:09 The problem with normal test results06:36 Chronic illness, fibromyalgia and feeling blamed10:36 Periods, pain and adenomyosis13:33 Why women often normalise suffering14:39 Chronic illness and trauma responses16:33 Why we need better conversations about periods18:00 Psychobiological loops explained21:23 Biology-balanced behaviour and allostatic load25:47 Migraines, sleep and routine27:15 Glutamate, decision fatigue and modern life29:26 The Default Mode Network and creativity33:19 Chronic illness, fear and nervous system responses36:11 How breathing changes physiology39:13 Hope, healing and taking back controlLinks:

What happens when you begin recognising old relational patterns… and start looking back at past relationships differently?In this week's Inner Work episode, I reflect on grief, hindsight, growth, emotional memory and the complicated feelings that can emerge when we realise we might make very different choices now than we once did.We explore:changing values and prioritiesrelational growth and self-reflectioncompassion for former versions of ourselvesgrief for what could have beenemotional reactions to photos, memories and relationships from the pasthealing old emotional woundshow therapy can help memories feel less emotionally jaggedThis is a reflective, compassionate episode about growth, hindsight and learning to hold both sadness and fondness at the same time.My Inner Work series is a space to pause and think more deeply about yourself. I explore where those roles come from… and whether they're still serving you now.These videos were previously members only but I have decided to share them with you so thanks for being here.

Why do some fears disappear whilst others seem to stay with us for years? Why can one bad experience shape the way we think, feel and behave long after the danger has passed? And why do humans keep expecting the worst, even when things are actually okay?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I'm joined by Dr Martyn Quigley, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Swansea University, to explore the fascinating psychology of extinction learning, phobias, anxiety, exposure therapy, conditioning and habit change.We discuss why fear responses develop, why they can be so difficult to shift, and how our brains learn safety through experience. Along the way we also explore the surprising psychology behind ghosting, positive reinforcement, expectancy violations and why noticing when things go right might be one of the most powerful psychological tools we have.Whether you're interested in anxiety, phobias, psychology, mental health, behaviour change, exposure therapy or simply understanding why humans think and act the way they do, this episode is packed with practical insights.Highlights00:00 Why fears can last for years00:57 Meet Dr Martyn Quigley01:53 What is extinction learning?02:55 The psychology of ghosting05:29 Breaking habits through extinction learning07:10 Parenting, behaviour and reinforcement07:50 Habituation explained11:18 Why some sounds drive us mad12:01 Extinction learning vs errorless learning14:33 Positive reinforcement at home18:12 Why we notice complaints more than praise21:53 From ghosting to phobias22:53 What actually is a phobia?24:52 The Little Albert experiment25:56 How extinction learning helps treat phobias27:01 Why fear can come back29:01 Dogs, anxiety and context-dependent learning30:58 Exposure therapy and systematic desensitisation35:19 Virtual reality treatments for phobias37:43 Shark phobias and everyday anxiety39:54 Expectancy violations and anxiety41:46 Learning to notice when things go right44:12 Future psychology topics and closing reflections Interested in working in research? I think you'll love this episode with my guest Jess: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/fb1c8b18-620d-474e-bcc8-d7224e4b449f/ Links:

What happens when you begin recognising old relational patterns… and start looking back at past relationships differently?In this week's Inner Work episode, I reflect on grief, hindsight, growth, emotional memory and the complicated feelings that can emerge when we realise we might make very different choices now than we once did.We explore:changing values and prioritiesrelational growth and self-reflectioncompassion for former versions of ourselvesgrief for what could have beenemotional reactions to photos, memories and relationships from the pasthealing old emotional woundshow therapy can help memories feel less emotionally jaggedThis is a reflective, compassionate episode about growth, hindsight and learning to hold both sadness and fondness at the same time.My Inner Work series is a space to pause and think more deeply about yourself. I explore where those roles come from… and whether they're still serving you now.These videos were previously members only but I have decided to share them with you so thanks for being here.

Why do we keep repeating relationship patterns that no longer serve us?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by fellow Clinical Psychologist Dr Kate Sherratt to explore attachment, relational patterns, dating psychology, burnout, self-esteem and why our earliest relationships can quietly shape the way we navigate adult life.From people-pleasing and emotional shutdown… to burnout at work, dating “catnip”, anxious attachment and struggling to ask for needs to be met - this conversation explores the hidden relational patterns that often sit underneath our everyday struggles.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Why relationship problems often begin long before dating01:14 What are relational patterns?02:46 Burnout and old emotional patterns05:30 Formulation and understanding your “user manual”07:09 Protector patterns and emotional self-reliance09:14 Supervision, attachment and criticism sensitivity11:10 Why praise sometimes doesn't go in14:49 Building healthier self-esteem16:30 Dating, consistency and emotional safety17:25 Attachment theory and dating patterns20:04 Dating “icks”, red flags and emotional catnip22:29 Love bombing and unhealthy intensity23:34 People-pleasing in relationships26:27 What does a healthy relationship actually look like?28:46 Deal breakers, values and emotional safety30:51 Why emotional catnip can keep you stuck33:36 Inner Work and deeper reflections Links:

What if the problem isn't that you're lazy… but that modern life is designed to overwhelm you?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by author Lily Silverton to explore the psychology of procrastination, overwhelm, attention, comparison and why so many people struggle to prioritise what actually matters.If you constantly feel behind, overstimulated or exhausted by competing demands, this conversation may really resonate.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Netflix says sleep is the competition01:07 Why prioritising matters psychologically01:59 A wealth of information creates a poverty of attention03:10 Even the Romans felt overwhelmed04:32 Why modern companies compete for your focus05:55 The psychology of procrastination08:30 Emotional avoidance and fear of failure09:59 Why “future you” won't magically change11:47 Breaking tasks down and body doubling15:02 The Eisenhower Matrix explained17:22 Why small tasks feel addictive18:03 Other people's urgency isn't always yours19:20 Boundaries, parenting and workload pressure22:10 Comparison, social media and self-worth24:23 When social media becomes self-harm25:21 “Do you actually want their whole life?”28:13 Resetting your algorithm and protecting wellbeing29:28 The Wellbeing Cups exercise31:01 Why Lily wrote Prioritise This33:33 Inner Work and deeper reflectionsLinks:

Why are so many employees burning out sometimes before their careers have even properly begun? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined once again by educational psychologist Dr Adam McCartney to explore the psychology of workplace wellbeing, burnout, leadership, identity, organisational culture and the growing impact of AI on confidence and autonomy at work. We discuss how modern workplaces often prioritise productivity and metrics over human wellbeing, why early career professionals are struggling, and how organisational systems can either support or damage psychological safety.The conversation explores mentorship, identity, communities of practise, whistleblowing, emotional labour, compassion fatigue, autonomy, burnout in healthcare and education, and why people thrive when they feel like they matter.Timestamps00:00 Why employees are burning out01:47 Workplace wellbeing and organisations04:09 Communities of practise and identity06:52 Whistleblowing and organisational culture10:54 Burnout in healthcare roles13:40 Autonomy, competency and wellbeing17:09 Why informal support matters20:39 The pressure of performance metrics24:39 Learning leadership safely27:26 Mentorship and onboarding29:46 Emotional collection and mattering31:41 Identity, roles and belonging35:52 Is AI reducing confidence and autonomy?38:07 Adam's podcast and final reflections#PsychologyActually #Burnout #WorkplaceWellbeing Links:

Most therapy tries to understand what's “wrong” with someone. But what if the person isn't the problem at all? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by clinical psychologists Rosslyn Offord, Elizabeth Field and Polly Kaiser to explore narrative therapy a therapeutic approach that helps people separate themselves from problems, reconnect with identity, and rewrite the stories they hold about themselves. We discuss trauma, grief, dementia, migration, stigma, ageing, burnout, community work, and how narrative therapy can support people across cultures and across the lifespan. The conversation also explores externalising problems, Tree of Life work, systemic therapy ideas, narrative approaches to dementia care, and how stories can shape both distress and recovery. This episode will be especially valuable for psychologists, therapists, counselling trainees, mental health professionals, systemic practitioners, and anyone curious about identity, therapy, and human stories. Check out the book, Narrative Therapy and Older People: Challenging Stigma, Supporting Connection and Building Hope https://amzn.to/3PFW8qNTimestamps 00:00 You are not the problem 01:00 What is narrative therapy? 04:28 How Rosslyn discovered narrative therapy 06:18 Narrative therapy in CAMHS and “Sneaky Poo” 08:29 Working with dementia and cognitive difficulties 11:38 Grief, remembering and storytelling 15:29 Why language matters in therapy 16:02 Narrative therapy, migration and trauma 18:01 Using a person's own language in therapy 19:11 Tree of Life and cross-cultural work 20:32 Is narrative therapy evidence-based? 24:20 Life story work and dementia care 26:35 Is it ever too late to learn narrative therapy? 28:39 Dementia stigma and community connection 31:29 Who might benefit from narrative therapy? 34:27 The new narrative therapy book 38:41 Final reflections and resources #PsychologyActually #NarrativeTherapy #ClinicalPsychologyLinks:

Why do people stay in abusive relationships?It's one of the most common questions people ask after stories of trauma, coercion and abuse. But it's often the wrong one.In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I explore the psychology behind the question “Why didn't she leave?” through the lens of Virginia Giuffre's memoir Nobody's Girl https://amzn.to/4tAA93f - unpacking trauma, grooming, coercive control, attachment, dissociation, threat, and why survival can look deeply misunderstood from the outside.We explore what keeps people in harmful situations, why trauma reshapes choice, and how compassion helps us ask better questions.If you work in mental health, support survivors, or want to understand trauma more deeply, this is an important conversation.Read Nobody's Girl, by Virginia Roberts Giuffre here: https://amzn.to/4tAA93fRead Dave Pelzer Books: https://amzn.to/49bM5jE⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Why “Why didn't she leave?” is the wrong question01:58 The trauma, grooming and abuse at the centre of the story03:09 Why we're drawn to stories like this05:19 Trauma and the need to make meaning06:29 What stories like this teach us about prevention07:54 Compassionate curiosity in mental health work08:57 Trauma, parenting and keeping children safe10:04 Why survivors may reconnect with harmful people11:04 Attachment, longing and early wounds12:16 Why she stayed – trauma, coercion and threat13:38 Grooming, dissociation and distorted self-worth14:41 Why fear and loyalty can override escape15:40 Why this story still mattersIf you find this video helpful you might also like my other videos in the psychology behind the story. There's Lily Allen, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Johanes Radebe & Kieron Dyer. You can find the playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLatjYNXFAzGc_x3sPfAKBsUIhIoi8YcrjLinks:

What do you do when your child won't go to school… and it doesn't feel like defiance? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, we explore emotional based school avoidance (EBSA / EBSNA) – why it happens, when it's most likely to start, and what actually helps children feel able to return to education.I'm joined by Educational Psychologist ⁨@Dr.AdamMcCartney⁩ and we discuss the psychology behind school refusal, the pressure on families and schools, and why one trusted teacher can sometimes make all the difference.If you're a parent, professional, or aspiring psychologist trying to understand school anxiety, attendance difficulties, or child mental health, this episode will help you think about it differently. ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Why “school refusal” might be the wrong term01:36 What is EBSA / EBSNA?04:09 Changing attitudes to education06:12 Attendance pressure and parental stress08:52 Why support becomes harder over time15:04 The most common age for school avoidance16:42 Secondary school transitions explained17:38 The power of one teacher relationship19:01 School attendance pressures and systems21:27 What parents can do to support their child22:22 What good pastoral care actually looks like23:45 Relational vs behavioural approaches24:41 Supporting children without blame27:11 Real-life parenting reflections30:08 Why emotional validation mattersLinks:

What happens when fame arrives before you know who you are… and then disappears? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I'm joined by 90s pop star Kavana (Anthony Kavanagh) to explore the psychology of fame, addiction, identity and recovery.We talk openly about the reality behind the spotlight - from chart success and public adoration to addiction, shame, and rebuilding a life when everything changes.Anthony shares his journey into sobriety, what recovery really looks like day-to-day, and how writing his memoir became part of that healing process.If you've ever wondered about the emotional cost of success, or what it takes to come back from rock bottom, this is a powerful and honest conversation.Check out Anthony Kavanagh's brilliant book, Pop Scars, a memoir on fame, addiction and the darker side of 90's pop: https://amzn.to/3O2R8fhThis episode is sponsored by WriteUpp the online practice management software I use in my own practice. To grab a 30 day free trial & 30% off for 60 months for up to 6 users use code Marianne30 here: https://writeupp.com/?refid=142336⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Fame vs reality – what we don't see01:42 Writing a memoir during recovery03:23 Pain vs humour in storytelling05:23 Early life and first job08:13 Getting discovered and becoming Kavana10:38 First experiences of fame13:04 Identity, sexuality and performance15:45 Pressure of maintaining a persona20:54 When things started to shift24:39 Losing momentum and public attention26:14 Alcohol as coping29:01 Hollywood years and escape31:06 Addiction, denial and rock bottom33:41 Loss of control and blackouts37:17 Loose Women interview experience39:01 4 years sober – what recovery looks like41:00 Daily practices and staying well42:42 Being sober in social spaces44:30 Rebuilding identity without alcohol47:39 Life now, creativity and future plansLinks:

Is it too late to become a clinical psychologist?In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I'm joined by trainee clinical psychologist Claire Dunn, who started her journey at 40 and secured a place on the doctorate at 47.Together, we break down what retraining in psychology actually looks like practically, emotionally, and strategically. Using real-life style examples of older applicants navigating career change, family life, and self-doubt.We explore pathways into clinical psychology, including conversion courses, assistant psychologist roles, NHS experience, and how to stay competitive when you feel “behind”.If you're an aspiring psychologist wondering whether you've left it too late - this episode offers a grounded, honest roadmap.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Is it too late to retrain in psychology?01:13 Claire's journey to training at 4702:23 Case study: Sarah (career change from teaching)04:30 Transferable skills and real-world experience05:41 How much do you need to want this?06:39 Studying later in life (Open University + flexibility)08:56 Balancing study, work and parenting10:35 When is the “right” time to retrain?12:20 Should you focus on study or experience first?14:32 Testing whether psychology is right for you15:25 Making the most of academic support16:19 Case study: Mark (NHS admin to psychology)18:10 Feeling “behind” and imposter syndrome19:05 Does a 2:2 limit your chances?20:31 Strengthening applications with a master's21:51 Assistant psychologist vs further study23:02 Why academic references matter24:06 Staying connected with referees25:27 Avoiding generic references26:35 Gaining relevant clinical experience28:21 Alternative pathways (CAP / PWP roles)30:18 Is it really too late? Final thoughtsLinks:

Most people think liver disease is only caused by alcohol. It isn't. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, we explore fatty liver disease (now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease), a common but often silent condition affecting 1 in 5 people in the UK.I'm joined by NHS health coach Sharan Verma, who shares both professional insight and her personal experience of losing her father to the disease. We discuss symptoms, diagnosis, reversibility, and why so many people are unaware they have it until it's progressed.This episode also explores the psychological impact of illness, caregiving, and grief including how difficult it can be to witness physical decline in someone you love.If you're interested in health psychology, prevention, or understanding how physical and emotional wellbeing connect, this episode offers an important and eye-opening perspective.Highlights00:00 Why liver disease isn't just about alcohol01:22 What fatty liver disease actually is02:15 Early symptoms and why it's often missed03:04 Stages of liver disease and reversibility04:47 Why awareness needs to change06:48 Sharan's father's diagnosis and missed opportunities08:59 Rapid deterioration and hospitalisation09:49 Losing a parent to liver disease10:30 Guilt, hindsight and what we didn't know11:29 Stigma and misunderstanding around liver disease12:44 Genetics and family patterns14:01 Living with increased health risk15:12 The emotional impact of watching someone decline15:39 Physical changes at end of life16:18 Trauma, memory and grief17:36 Where the liver is and what it does18:46 Diet, lifestyle and prevention21:47 Barriers to healthy eating22:03 Risk factors and population differences22:42 Where to learn more Links:

Becoming an Assistant Psychologist in the UK can feel frustrating, competitive, and at times deeply personal – especially when applications don't lead to interviews or offers. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, we explore why Assistant Psychologist roles are so difficult to secure, what experience is actually needed before applying, and how to navigate rejection without burning out or losing confidence.We discuss the reality of psychology career pathways in the UK, including why many successful applicants have prior relevant roles, how to build experience strategically, and how to approach interviews as a two-way process – including checking whether a role truly fits you and whether employers can support reasonable adjustments.If you're an aspiring psychologist feeling stuck, overlooked, or questioning your path, this episode will help you reframe your journey and take your next steps with clarity and compassion.Timestamps: 00:00 Why psychology graduates feel “behind” after uni01:02 What university careers services actually do02:13 Support available after graduation (and why it matters)03:06 Why psychology careers feel confusing compared to others04:26 Different mental health career pathways explained05:40 Low pay early on and managing expectations06:06 Understanding your career values07:18 Why experience matters more than income early on08:20 Building experience during university09:18 Real example of paid student support work10:35 Why your effort might go unnoticed (but still matters)11:25 Creative ways to gain relevant experience12:05 Mental health roles within universities13:11 Building relationships for references14:14 Why tutors need to actually know you15:11 The long-term impact of mentors and lecturers16:06 Mock interviews and building confidence16:52 Practising interviews and finding your voice17:52 Interviews are human – not designed to catch you out18:59 Interviews are a two-way process20:02 Checking job fit and reasonable adjustments21:17 Diversity and inclusion in psychology pathways22:17 Internship opportunities and widening access22:57 Celebrating first Assistant Psychologist roles23:55 Why AP roles aren't entry-level24:37 Managing expectations around experience25:59 Discouragement and proving people wrong26:40 Choosing your own career path (not others')27:49 Backup plans and flexibility in goals28:30 Burnout, pacing yourself and taking breaks29:25 Noticing when you're ready for the next step30:19 Following your natural interests and curiosityLinks:

What if one of the most powerful tools for girls' confidence, resilience and emotional wellbeing was already on the school timetable? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, we explore why girls in sport is about so much more than physical fitness. Joined by educational psychologist Dr Mel Morrison (The Sporty Ed Psych), we discuss how sport supports emotional regulation, identity development, belonging, and confidence in girls and young women.We also unpack the barriers that still exist – including gender stereotypes, access, cost, and school culture – and how we can create more inclusive opportunities so all girls can thrive, both in education and beyond.If you're a parent, educator, or aspiring psychologist, this episode offers a powerful, systemic perspective on how sport can transform not just physical health, but psychological wellbeing and engagement in learning.Highlights00:00 Why girls' confidence might be hiding in sport01:13 Emotional regulation through sport02:21 Belonging, connection and social development03:25 Identity, body image and confidence in adolescence04:39 Resilience, discomfort and mental strength05:01 Missed opportunities and changing narratives06:29 Why sport isn't just for the “naturally sporty”07:24 Adult rediscovery of sport and identity08:43 From punishment to joy – changing your relationship with movement10:30 Sport as emotional regulation for psychologists11:34 Strength training, femininity and breaking stereotypes12:57 “Sporty Spice was right” – cultural shifts in women's sport13:38 Strong is sexy – reframing strength and identity14:15 Denise Lewis and the power of role models15:20 Barriers for girls – body image, visibility and fear16:33 Using sport to support education and engagement18:01 Sport as intervention for disengaged pupils19:02 Motivation, behaviour and classroom impact20:14 Making PE inclusive and meaningful21:31 Supporting neurodiverse young people through sport22:53 Sensory needs, structure and safe environments24:37 Cost, access and inequality in sport26:10 Dr Mel Morrison's work and The Sporty Ed Psych28:59 Applying sports psychology to educationLinks:

We train psychologists to think brilliantly… but no one really teaches us how to feel. In this episode we explore embodied practice in psychology, including how to manage stress, anger, burnout, trauma, and emotional overwhelm through the body rather than just the mind.I'm joined again by Dr Sunil Lad, Consultant Counselling Psychologist and NHS Clinical Director, and we discuss why many clinicians feel disconnected from their bodies and what changes when we begin to work bottom-up instead of top-down.This episode is essential for psychologists, therapists, and anyone who feels stuck in their head, overwhelmed, or unable to switch off.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Why psychologists aren't taught to feel01:12 What is embodied practice in psychology?02:18 Thinking vs feeling – getting out of your head02:43 Transference, countertransference and body awareness03:33 Anger, expression and safe emotional release04:35 Anger vs violence – why they're not the same05:46 Compassion-focused therapy and emotional triggers06:35 Checking in with your body in daily life07:40 Social media, stress and nervous system activation09:30 Building body awareness through movement and curiosity11:54 Discomfort vs pain – learning your body's signals13:25 Why growth takes time (no quick fixes)14:45 Embodiment as stress buffering for psychologists15:45 Coping vs nourishing – how we regulate after hard days17:11 “The body keeps the score” in clinical work19:30 Bringing embodiment into supervision21:00 Starting small – where to begin with embodied practice22:58 Playfulness, movement and reconnecting with the body24:04 Slowing down in a fast-paced world25:13 Trying new experiences and building neural pathways26:10 Where to find Dr Sunil Lad + his work26:50 Final reflections – what stayed with meLinks:

Disability, Identity & Leadership in Psychology - Turning Difference into Strength! What if the thing that makes you feel different is actually the thing that makes you a better psychologist?In this episode we explore disability, identity, lived experience, and leadership in psychology, and how difference can shape powerful, compassionate clinical practice. I'm joined by Dr Sunil Lad, Consultant Counselling Psychologist and National NHS Clinical Director, who shares his experience of growing up in a body the world wasn't built for and how that shaped his journey into psychology, leadership, and compassion-focused work.This episode is essential for aspiring psychologists, clinicians, and anyone who has ever felt “different” or questioned whether they belong in psychology.Timestamps: 00:00 What if difference is your strength?01:07 Introduction to Dr Sunil Lad01:49 Growing up in a different body03:07 Labels, identity, and what feels “freeing”04:37 Family, comparison, and coping strategies06:12 Feeling “different” and compensating through achievement06:45 Being infantilised and navigating assumptions07:48 Shame, asking for help, and self-compassion09:30 Online trolling and the darker side of humanity14:20 Working in prisons and breaking assumptions17:11 Lived experience as clinical strength20:43 Supporting families raising children who are “different”23:39 The drama triangle explained25:25 Advice for aspiring psychologists who feel different26:46 Leadership in NHS psychologyLinks:

How do international students actually become clinical psychologists in the UK? In this episode I speak with Dr Samuel Chu, originally from Hong Kong, who moved to London as an international student and is now a qualified NHS clinical psychologist.We unpack the real pathway into UK clinical psychology training, including Tier 4 student visas, international student fees, assistant psychologist roles, NHS access, and the Clearing House application process.Samuel shares his journey of leaving Hong Kong at 18, adapting to British culture, gaining clinical experience in the NHS, and eventually qualifying as a psychologist in the UK.If you're an international student considering studying psychology in the UK, or an aspiring psychologist wondering how overseas applicants navigate the system, this episode offers an honest roadmap.In this episode we discuss:• studying psychology in the UK as an international student• Tier 4 student visas and graduate visas• international university fees and funding challenges• gaining assistant psychologist experience• applying to the DClinPsy through Clearing House• working in the NHS as an international trainee• adapting to British culture and professional lifeWhether you're already studying psychology abroad or exploring the idea of training in the UK, this conversation will help you understand what the journey really looks like.DClinPsy International Timestamps 00:00 The reality of becoming a psychologist in the UK as an international student01:25 Why Samuel moved from Hong Kong to study psychology in London03:27 Cultural differences and adapting to life in the UK06:02 Tier 4 visas and how international students study in the UK07:31 International student fees and funding challenges08:32 NHS access and healthcare for international students09:59 Loneliness and mental health when studying abroad12:06 Finding community and support through university societies16:01 Choosing a master's after undergraduate psychology19:15 Early forensic psychology experience and clinical placements23:54 Applying for the DClinPsy through Clearing House26:32 Clinical experience requirements for psychology training28:53 DBS checks and working with vulnerable populations31:59 Life after qualifying as a clinical psychologist33:13 Surprises about British culture and humour35:34 Samuel's YouTube channel and supporting international applicantsLinks:

Teachers are burning out. Classrooms are becoming harder to manage. And children are struggling to regulate their emotions in school. In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr Marianne Trent speaks with educational psychologist Dr Adam McCartney about what educational psychologists actually do in schools - and how psychological thinking can help transform behaviour, emotional regulation and staff wellbeing across entire school systems. Using real case studies from UK schools, we explore classroom behaviour challenges, teacher burnout, SEND pressures and practical emotional regulation strategies that help children and teachers thrive. Whether you're an aspiring psychologist, teacher, SEN professional, or simply curious about how schools support children's emotional wellbeing, this episode provides a powerful look at psychology in action.Useful Book Mentioned in the Podcast: Gabor Mate, Hold on to your kids: https://amzn.to/4uhX30iHighlights00:00 Why teacher burnout and behaviour challenges are rising in schools01:21 What educational psychologists actually do in schools04:27 Case study: a school system in crisis and how psychology helped stabilise it06:08 Why role confusion in school staff fuels burnout and conflict09:59 Supporting distressed pupils while stabilising the wider school system13:04 The power of systemic thinking in educational psychology14:38 Why reflective practice is essential for teachers and school leaders17:30 Case study: a “difficult” Year 4 class and emotional regulation19:11 Observing classrooms and understanding teacher dynamics22:14 Teaching emotional literacy through the classroom “corners” strategy25:23 Why teacher relationships regulate children's nervous systems29:04 Why children sometimes seek attention from teachers31:59 Doing better when we know better in education32:03 What education might look like in the age of AI33:32 Why creativity, connection and collaboration will remain essential skillsLinks:Listen to Adam's Podcast, Between Two Psychs: https://www.dradammccartney.com/betweentwopsychs

What Teenage Mothers Really Need - A Psychologist's PerspectiveTeenage pregnancy is often framed as a social problem, a failure, or a life “ruined.” But what if the real issue isn't the pregnancy - it's the stigma, judgement, and low expectations placed on young mothers?In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Hayley Lugassy, an educational psychologist who became a mother at 15. We explore the psychological impact of teenage pregnancy, the harm caused by shame-based responses from families and professionals, and what truly supports better outcomes for both young mothers and their children.We discuss teenage motherhood, attachment, stigma, poverty, safeguarding, education pathways, UK benefits, and how investing in young parents can transform lives.This episode is essential listening for parents, professionals, aspiring psychologists, teachers, and anyone interested in trauma-informed and compassionate approaches to teenage pregnancy.You do not need to be a young parent to find this powerful – this is about how we respond to people at vulnerable turning points in their lives.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Why teenage pregnancy is so often misunderstood02:50 Falling pregnant at 14 and family conflict05:39 Judgement from professionals during birth08:32 What parents should do when their teenage daughter is pregnant12:11 Reframing “ruined life” narratives14:38 Poverty, food insecurity and survival16:21 The UK benefits system and long-term investment18:26 What gold-standard support could look like21:50 Why young mothers need mentorship, not surveillance25:50 Becoming a psychologist after teenage motherhood29:37 The impact of low expectations31:29 Practical support available in the UK todayLinks:

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, I'm joined by Dr Emma Hepburn, Clinical Psychologist and creator of The Psychology Mum, to explore burnout, shame in mental health professionals, creativity in clinical psychology, and what happens when your body forces you to stop. We discuss how Emma's illustrations began in NHS brain injury groups, how her “capacity cup” drawing went viral during the pandemic, and how social media traction unexpectedly led to publishing opportunities. We unpack the psychology of burnout, emotional exhaustion, stress overload, shame narratives, and why even clinical psychologists are not immune to mental health difficulties. Emma also introduces her fourth book, The Anti-Burnout Book, and explains how visual metaphors like the match, the teeny tiny thing, Brian the Brain, and the tortoise help bring psychological theory to life. This episode is relevant for clinical psychologists, aspiring psychologists, NHS staff, teachers, parents, creators, and anyone interested in burnout recovery, stress management, shame resilience, emotional regulation, and sustainable wellbeing. Timestamps 00:00 – The quiet phase before burnout 02:35 – How The Psychology Mum began in NHS brain injury groups 05:20 – When Emma's illustrations started to snowball 07:18 – Co-creation and why her work resonated during the pandemic 09:45 – Writing her first book just before lockdown 14:07 – Introducing her fourth book: The Anti-Burnout Book 16:42 – The Edinburgh weekend that became a turning point 20:35 – When your body says “stop” 22:09 – Burnout, shame, and being a clinical psychologist 24:32 – Externalising shame and the “negative ninja takeover” 28:45 – The “teeny tiny thing” that tips you over 30:07 – Why slowing down increases long-term achievement 33:06 – Technology, social media and burnout 34:43 – Where to find The Anti-Burnout Book Links:

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore what it's really like working as a UK-trained Clinical Psychologist in the UAE. If you've ever wondered about relocating abroad, practising outside the NHS, navigating private healthcare systems, or balancing career progression with lifestyle changes, this conversation offers a realistic and informed perspective.I'm joined by Dr Jack Nejand, a UK-trained Clinical Psychologist who moved from South London to Abu Dhabi. We discuss visas, licensing, tax differences, CAMHS-style work in the UAE, insurance-based healthcare models, relocation logistics, career development abroad, service development opportunities, and what life actually feels like on the ground.Whether you're considering working as a psychologist overseas, exploring expat life, or simply curious about international career pathways in clinical psychology, this episode provides clarity without selling a fantasy.This conversation is especially relevant for:UK Clinical Psychologists considering relocationDClinPsy applicants thinking long-term about career optionsPsychologists navigating burnout or financial pressuresAnyone curious about working in private healthcare abroadTimestamps: 00:00 – Why psychologists are considering working abroad04:03 – How the opportunity to move to the UAE emerged06:51 – Telling family and friends about relocating08:27 – Why more young professionals are leaving the UK10:00 – The lifestyle reality of living in Abu Dhabi15:39 – Cohabitation laws and cultural considerations17:00 – What CAMHS looks like in the UAE21:02 – Insurance-based healthcare explained25:15 – Clinical severity and thresholds compared to the NHS27:27 – CPD, conferences and career development abroad28:48 – Visas, licensing and Emirates ID31:13 – Pension, leave and employment differences34:52 – Bringing UK service models into UAE schools38:37 – Assistant Psychologist roles and early-career pathwaysLinks:

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore whether the popular “Let Them” mindset is always as healthy as it appears.I'm joined by Dr Rana Pishva, Clinical Psychologist, to unpack how ideas intended to support empowerment and boundary-setting can sometimes slip into emotional avoidance, disconnection, and relational rupture – particularly when applied rigidly or without reflection.Together, we discuss boundaries versus avoidance, curiosity versus control, and what happens when self-focused wellness messages are used to shut down difficult conversations rather than deepen understanding. We explore real clinical examples involving family relationships, holidays, romantic partners, and unmet emotional needs, alongside a thoughtful discussion about AI, validation, and why human connection still matters.This episode invites a more nuanced, compassionate approach to boundaries – one that balances self-respect with empathy, accountability, and relational repair.Timestamps: 00:00 – Why the “Let Them” movement feels empowering but may hide avoidance03:19 – When self-focused wellness becomes relational disconnection04:24 – A clinical example: family holidays, boundaries, and disappointment06:37 – Why boundaries aren't about dropping emotional hand grenades08:32 – The importance of curiosity in relationships09:25 – AI, validation, and emotional outsourcing11:51 – Why human understanding matters more than generic reassurance15:12 – How “Let Them” can quietly erode emotional intimacy18:51 – Avoidance, anxiety, and the cost of protecting peace at all costs22:05 – Grief, unmet needs, and what we lose when we disengage28:13 – Using “Let Them” after reflection, not before31:12 – When “Let Them” does help – and why context mattersLinks:

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore what it really means to be care experienced and how early experiences of foster care and the care system can shape identity, relationships, and career journeys into clinical psychology.I'm joined by Jacob Maspero Bottaio, one of the youngest trainee clinical psychologists in the UK, who shares his experience of entering the care system at a young age, moving between foster placements, experiencing a failed adoption, and navigating the emotional and systemic barriers on the path to clinical psychology training.Together, we discuss care experience, hyper-independence, attachment, supervision dynamics, readiness for training, and what compassionate inclusion in psychology genuinely looks like. This is a thoughtful, emotionally rich conversation about resilience, systems, safety, and what it takes to feel able to lean on others after a lifetime of survival.This episode is especially relevant for aspiring psychologists, trainee clinical psychologists, supervisors, and anyone interested in widening access to clinical psychology with compassion rather than tokenism.Highlights(Timestamps)00:00 – Jacob's early life in the care system and why his story matters01:50 – Defining “care experienced” and why it's broader than people think03:26 – Why care experience can make psychology careers harder to access05:29 – Disclosure, stigma, and fear of how lived experience will be received07:26 – Financial and systemic barriers before training even begins10:53 – Hyper-independence, driving, and needing control over your future15:06 – Growing up fast and being “older than your years”18:27 – Forever people, attachment, and learning to exhale22:59 – Safety, the amygdala, and relearning trust27:15 – Adoption, systems, and not being asked what you want32:35 – Supervision styles, boundaries, and relational triggers39:46 – Readiness for training and compassion toward yourself47:35 – Repair, relationships, and what Jacob hopes for othersLinks: