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.

⏱️ Timestamps

1. 00:00 Why psychologists aren’t taught to feel
2. 01:12 What is embodied practice in psychology?
3. 02:18 Thinking vs feeling – getting out of your head
4. 02:43 Transference, countertransference and body awareness
5. 03:33 Anger, expression and safe emotional release
6. 04:35 Anger vs violence – why they’re not the same
7. 05:46 Compassion-focused therapy and emotional triggers
8. 06:35 Checking in with your body in daily life
9. 07:40 Social media, stress and nervous system activation
10. 09:30 Building body awareness through movement and curiosity
11. 11:54 Discomfort vs pain – learning your body’s signals
12. 13:25 Why growth takes time (no quick fixes)
13. 14:45 Embodiment as stress buffering for psychologists
14. 15:45 Coping vs nourishing – how we regulate after hard days
15. 17:11 “The body keeps the score” in clinical work
16. 19:30 Bringing embodiment into supervision
17. 21:00 Starting small – where to begin with embodied practice
18. 22:58 Playfulness, movement and reconnecting with the body
19. 24:04 Slowing down in a fast-paced world
20. 25:13 Trying new experiences and building neural pathways
21. 26:10 Where to find Dr Sunil Lad + his work
22. 26:50 Final reflections – what stayed with me

Links:

📲 Connect with Dr Sunil Lad here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-sunil-lad-89597446/

📚 Iconic Book: The Body Keeps the Score Book: https://amzn.to/3NJoY8F

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

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:

1. 00:00 What if difference is your strength?
2. 01:07 Introduction to Dr Sunil Lad
3. 01:49 Growing up in a different body
4. 03:07 Labels, identity, and what feels “freeing”
5. 04:37 Family, comparison, and coping strategies
6. 06:12 Feeling “different” and compensating through achievement
7. 06:45 Being infantilised and navigating assumptions
8. 07:48 Shame, asking for help, and self-compassion
9. 09:30 Online trolling and the darker side of humanity
10. 14:20 Working in prisons and breaking assumptions
11. 17:11 Lived experience as clinical strength
12. 20:43 Supporting families raising children who are “different”
13. 23:39 The drama triangle explained
14. 25:25 Advice for aspiring psychologists who feel different
15. 26:46 Leadership in NHS psychology

Links:

📲 Connect with Dr Sunil Lad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-sunil-lad-89597446/

📚 Check out Sinead Burke's Book Break The Mould: https://amzn.to/4siqo9t

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

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 life

Whether 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

1. 00:00 The reality of becoming a psychologist in the UK as an international student
2. 01:25 Why Samuel moved from Hong Kong to study psychology in London
3. 03:27 Cultural differences and adapting to life in the UK
4. 06:02 Tier 4 visas and how international students study in the UK
5. 07:31 International student fees and funding challenges
6. 08:32 NHS access and healthcare for international students
7. 09:59 Loneliness and mental health when studying abroad
8. 12:06 Finding community and support through university societies
9. 16:01 Choosing a master's after undergraduate psychology
10. 19:15 Early forensic psychology experience and clinical placements
11. 23:54 Applying for the DClinPsy through Clearing House
12. 26:32 Clinical experience requirements for psychology training
13. 28:53 DBS checks and working with vulnerable populations
14. 31:59 Life after qualifying as a clinical psychologist
15. 33:13 Surprises about British culture and humour
16. 35:34 Samuel’s YouTube channel and supporting international applicants

Links:

1. 📲 Web Page discussed in the episode: https://www.dclinpsy-international.co.uk
2. Dr Samuel Chu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelchupsych/
3. https://www.youtube.com/@samuelchupsychology

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

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/4uhX30i

Highlights

1. 00:00 Why teacher burnout and behaviour challenges are rising in schools
2. 01:21 What educational psychologists actually do in schools
3. 04:27 Case study: a school system in crisis and how psychology helped stabilise it
4. 06:08 Why role confusion in school staff fuels burnout and conflict
5. 09:59 Supporting distressed pupils while stabilising the wider school system
6. 13:04 The power of systemic thinking in educational psychology
7. 14:38 Why reflective practice is essential for teachers and school leaders
8. 17:30 Case study: a “difficult” Year 4 class and emotional regulation
9. 19:11 Observing classrooms and understanding teacher dynamics
10. 22:14 Teaching emotional literacy through the classroom “corners” strategy
11. 25:23 Why teacher relationships regulate children’s nervous systems
12. 29:04 Why children sometimes seek attention from teachers
13. 31:59 Doing better when we know better in education
14. 32:03 What education might look like in the age of AI
15. 33:32 Why creativity, connection and collaboration will remain essential skills

Links:

Listen to Adam's Podcast, Between Two Psychs: https://www.dradammccartney.com/betweentwopsychs

📲 Connect with Dr Adam McCartney here:

https://www.dradammccartney.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-adam-mccartney-afbpss-647ab1221/

https://www.instagram.com/dradammcartney/

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

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.

⏱️ Timestamps

1. 00:00 Why teenage pregnancy is so often misunderstood
2. 02:50 Falling pregnant at 14 and family conflict
3. 05:39 Judgement from professionals during birth
4. 08:32 What parents should do when their teenage daughter is pregnant
5. 12:11 Reframing “ruined life” narratives
6. 14:38 Poverty, food insecurity and survival
7. 16:21 The UK benefits system and long-term investment
8. 18:26 What gold-standard support could look like
9. 21:50 Why young mothers need mentorship, not surveillance
10. 25:50 Becoming a psychologist after teenage motherhood
11. 29:37 The impact of low expectations
12. 31:29 Practical support available in the UK today

Links:

📲 Connect with Dr Hayley Lugassy: https://lugassylearningsolutions.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-hayley-lugassy-26750426a/

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#teenmum #teenageparent #youngparent #teendad

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

1. 00:00 – The quiet phase before burnout
2. 02:35 – How The Psychology Mum began in NHS brain injury groups
3. 05:20 – When Emma’s illustrations started to snowball
4. 07:18 – Co-creation and why her work resonated during the pandemic
5. 09:45 – Writing her first book just before lockdown
6. 14:07 – Introducing her fourth book: The Anti-Burnout Book
7. 16:42 – The Edinburgh weekend that became a turning point
8. 20:35 – When your body says “stop”
9. 22:09 – Burnout, shame, and being a clinical psychologist
10. 24:32 – Externalising shame and the “negative ninja takeover”
11. 28:45 – The “teeny tiny thing” that tips you over
12. 30:07 – Why slowing down increases long-term achievement
13. 33:06 – Technology, social media and burnout
14. 34:43 – Where to find The Anti-Burnout Book

Links:

📲 Follow Dr Emma Hepburn on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepsychologymum/

📚 Check out Emma's books here: https://amzn.to/4rvh6GI

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

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:

1. UK Clinical Psychologists considering relocation
2. DClinPsy applicants thinking long-term about career options
3. Psychologists navigating burnout or financial pressures
4. Anyone curious about working in private healthcare abroad

Timestamps:

1. 00:00 – Why psychologists are considering working abroad
2. 04:03 – How the opportunity to move to the UAE emerged
3. 06:51 – Telling family and friends about relocating
4. 08:27 – Why more young professionals are leaving the UK
5. 10:00 – The lifestyle reality of living in Abu Dhabi
6. 15:39 – Cohabitation laws and cultural considerations
7. 17:00 – What CAMHS looks like in the UAE
8. 21:02 – Insurance-based healthcare explained
9. 25:15 – Clinical severity and thresholds compared to the NHS
10. 27:27 – CPD, conferences and career development abroad
11. 28:48 – Visas, licensing and Emirates ID
12. 31:13 – Pension, leave and employment differences
13. 34:52 – Bringing UK service models into UAE schools
14. 38:37 – Assistant Psychologist roles and early-career pathways

Links:

🫶 To join my podcast membership to get early access to episodes and / or exclusive weekly content head to: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support or to the Apple Podcasts App: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-aspiring-psychologist-podcast/id1605628278 or to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOwjrIP_jatiqlAivJE2mgQ/join

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/membership

🖥️ Check out my short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/online-courses

Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)

✍️ Get your FREE Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/free-resources

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

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:

1. 00:00 – Why the “Let Them” movement feels empowering but may hide avoidance
2. 03:19 – When self-focused wellness becomes relational disconnection
3. 04:24 – A clinical example: family holidays, boundaries, and disappointment
4. 06:37 – Why boundaries aren’t about dropping emotional hand grenades
5. 08:32 – The importance of curiosity in relationships
6. 09:25 – AI, validation, and emotional outsourcing
7. 11:51 – Why human understanding matters more than generic reassurance
8. 15:12 – How “Let Them” can quietly erode emotional intimacy
9. 18:51 – Avoidance, anxiety, and the cost of protecting peace at all costs
10. 22:05 – Grief, unmet needs, and what we lose when we disengage
11. 28:13 – Using “Let Them” after reflection, not before
12. 31:12 – When “Let Them” does help – and why context matters

Links:

📚 📲

🫶 To support me by donating to help cover my costs for the free resources I provide click here: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/membership-interested

🖥️ Check out my brand new short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/short-courses

✍️ Get your Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/supervision

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.

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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)

1. 00:00 – Jacob’s early life in the care system and why his story matters
2. 01:50 – Defining “care experienced” and why it’s broader than people think
3. 03:26 – Why care experience can make psychology careers harder to access
4. 05:29 – Disclosure, stigma, and fear of how lived experience will be received
5. 07:26 – Financial and systemic barriers before training even begins
6. 10:53 – Hyper-independence, driving, and needing control over your future
7. 15:06 – Growing up fast and being “older than your years”
8. 18:27 – Forever people, attachment, and learning to exhale
9. 22:59 – Safety, the amygdala, and relearning trust
10. 27:15 – Adoption, systems, and not being asked what you want
11. 32:35 – Supervision styles, boundaries, and relational triggers
12. 39:46 – Readiness for training and compassion toward yourself
13. 47:35 – Repair, relationships, and what Jacob hopes for others

Links:

🫶 To support me by donating to help cover my costs for the free resources I provide click here: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/membership-interested

🖥️ Check out my brand new short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/short-courses

✍️ Get your Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/supervision

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore the realities of life after qualifying as a clinical psychologist. I’m joined by trainee clinical psychologist Taniya Wellmillage, and together we discuss job uncertainty, unemployment after qualification, fixed-term contracts, stigma, and the emotional impact of moving from trainee security into an unpredictable job market. I share my own experience of signing on after qualifying, and we explore NHS versus private practice, moral injury, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to appear successful. This episode is essential listening for trainee and newly qualified clinical psychologists, and for anyone wanting an honest, compassionate insight into post-DClinPsy life.

Timestamps

1. 00:00 – The myth that qualification guarantees a job
2. 01:41 – The bittersweet reality of finishing training
3. 03:18 – Being unemployed and signing on after qualifying
4. 04:42 – Stigma, shame, and fear around not having work
5. 05:31 – Fixed-term contracts and the shock of losing security
6. 06:14 – Course expansion, funding, and job availability
7. 07:23 – The false promise of the training “ladder”
8. 08:06 – Competing roles and widening applicant pools
9. 09:09 – Part-time posts and juggling multiple jobs
10. 10:25 – Private practice as necessity, not choice
11. 11:38 – Anxiety about going independent too soon
12. 12:10 – First qualified posts and clinical responsibility
13. 14:09 – Why support matters after qualification
14. 21:03 – Reclaiming identity, interests, and values post-training

Links:

📲 Connect with Taniya Wellmillage here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniya-w-8a010a169/

🫶 To support me by donating to help cover my costs for the free resources I provide click here: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/membership-interested

🖥️ Check out my brand new short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/short-courses

✍️ Get your Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/supervision

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore the realities of clinical psychology training beyond getting onto the course. I’m joined by final-year trainee clinical psychologist Taniya Welmillage, and together we discuss placements, supervision, competency pressure, imposter syndrome, wellbeing, leadership, and how life continues alongside training. We explore constant moving, team cultures, long commutes, therapy for trainees, and how trainees decide what is non-negotiable for their mental health. This episode is ideal for aspiring psychologists, trainee clinical psychologists, and anyone wanting a realistic, compassionate insight into training.

Timestamps:

1. 00:00 – Why getting onto training isn’t the whole story
2. 01:25 – Constant change, placements, and adjustment fatigue
3. 03:16 – Being called “the trainee” vs being seen as a person
4. 04:39 – Team cultures, safety, and belonging
5. 06:14 – Buildings, resources, and how environments shape experience
6. 08:53 – Juggling competencies, learning, and performance pressure
7. 10:05 – Authenticity vs ticking boxes on placement
8. 11:46 – Relocation, commuting, and the hidden toll of training
9. 14:10 – Flexi working, boundaries, and protecting wellbeing
10. 15:52 – The importance of trainee friendships and support
11. 18:33 – Life milestones during training
12. 20:51 – Reducing the “shoulds” and living your life alongside training
13. 26:38 – Therapy for trainees: is it useful and accessible?
14. 31:07 – Absorbing what’s useful and becoming your own psychologist

Links:

📲 Connect with Taniya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniya-w-8a010a169/

🫶 To support me by donating to help cover my costs for the free resources I provide click here: https://the-aspiring-psychologist.captivate.fm/support

📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

📖 To check out The Aspiring Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3CP2N97

💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/membership-interested

🖥️ Check out my brand new short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/short-courses

✍️ Get your Supervision Shaping Tool now: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/supervision

📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

Like, Comment, Subscribe & get involved:

If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.

Hashtags:

#aspiringpsychologist #dclinpsy #psychology #assistantpsychologist #psychologycareers #podcast #psychologypodcast #clinicalpsychologist #mentalhealth #traineeclinicalpsychologist #clinicalpsychology #drmariannetrent #mentalhealthprofessional #gettingqualified #mentalhealthprofessionals #traineepwp #mdt #qualifiedpsychologist #traineepsychologist #aspiringpsychologists #wellbeing