Psychology, Actually
Psychology, Actually with Dr Marianne Trent is a podcast exploring the psychology behind everyday life, work, relationships, and inner worlds. Through conversations with psychologists and inspiring guests, it brings together clinical insight with genuine human understanding. The show also features reflective solo episodes from Dr Trent, covering topics like parenting, grief, and coping. New episodes are released every Monday at 6am UK time.
Episodes
Can Babies Have Mental Health? Infant Mental Health and Attachment Explained
Can a baby have mental health before they can even talk? The earliest months of life may shape far more than most of us realise. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Charlotte Dunster-Page to explore infant mental health, attachment and bonding, and what can happen when early parenting doesn't go to plan. They discuss why the first 1,001 days matter, how to sp
Gender Disappointment Isn't What You Think | The Truth About Grief & Hope
Can you deeply love the child you have and still grieve the child you imagined? That shame-filled question is far more common than you think. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Nina Francis to explore why gender disappointment might be the wrong term and how RIFIs, Rupture of an Imagined Future due to infant sex, better explain the grief, identity, dark hope
What Does Your IQ Score Actually Tell You? | WAIS-5 Explained
What does an IQ score actually tell us about a person and what can it miss? The answer is far more complicated than a single number, especially when we consider strengths, weaknesses, culture, education and real-world ability.In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent joins Dr Keith Jenkins to explore the history and evolution of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), what I
When a Career Step Back Is Actually a Step Forward
Would you take a pay cut for a job that looks worse on paper? Sometimes the move that feels like a step backwards is exactly what your career needs next. In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent explores when a sideways or seemingly backwards career move, like dropping from a Band 5 to a Band 4 assistant psychologist role, could actually help you grow. Drawing on a real Reddit ca
Why We Can't Stop Replaying Our Worst Interview Answers
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. 🎧 Listen to the Professor Paul Gilbert Le
Stressed All the Time? A Psychologist Explains What's Really Going On
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
Why You've Stopped Trusting Yourself (And How to Start Again)
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
Why Do I Feel Guilty When I’m Off Sick From Work?
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 permissi
The Psychology Behind The Traitors: Trust, Lies & Human Behaviour - with Dr Ellie
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 bu
5 One-Minute Habits That Help With Depression
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
Why One Piece of Criticism Can Make You Question Everything
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 #mentalwellbei
Fitness to Practice for Trainee Psychologists: What No One Tells You
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 di
Why Charisma Makes It Hard to See Red Flags
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📚 Get your copy of The Psychopath Effect by Dr Emma Kavanagh: https://amzn.to/455qlUu 💡 Want to su
Why Psychopaths Are So Charming (And Why That's Dangerous)
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 dam
Why We Believe Rejection So Quickly (And What To Do Instead)
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 #In
How Does the BPS Assessment of Equivalence Help You Get GBC?
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
Why You're Looking for Safety (Not Confidence)
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 firs
Knitting, Crochet & Mental Health: The Science Explained
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
Why We Numb Our Pain | Trauma, Alcohol & Emotional Avoidance
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💡 Want to support the
What Is EMDR Therapy? A Clinical Psychologist Explains
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 tr
Self-Acceptance vs Self-Optimisation: Which Wins?
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. 💬 Where do you draw the line between growth and acceptance? #InnerWork #SelfAcceptance #MentalHealth💡 Want to support the channel? Like, comment, and share this episode!📩 Bu
What Is Tourette's Syndrome Really Like? A Clinical Psychologist Explains
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 00:5
What If You've Been Wrong About Yourself
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. 💬 What would you change if you could? #psychology #MentalHealth #selfgrowth💡 Want to support the channel? Like, comment, and share this episode!#psychologypodcast #chooseyours
What Is Neurofeedback The Mental Health Treatment Everyone Is Talking About
Thanks to Bee Medic for sponsoring this video. To grab an exclusive 20% off discount on all basic courses in the UK, valid until November 1, 2026. 🏷️ Use code: ACTUALLY20 at: https://beemedic.com/en/coursesNeurofeedback Research FMRI Study: https://beemedic.com/en/new-neuroimage-study-provides-mechanistic-foundation-ilf-neurofeedbackCan your brain learn to regulate itself?🧠 Discover how neurofeedb
Watching Someone You Love Struggle (And Not Being Able to Fix It)
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 c
I Had Anorexia for Years. Here's What Actually Helped Me Recover
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
Stop Waiting To Be Chosen | The Psychology of Taking Control - Inner Work
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
Why Soft Skills Matter More Than Qualifications
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, c
It's Okay To Mourn What You Missed Out On - Inner Work
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
Why You Feel Responsible for Everyone | The Psychology of People Pleasing
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
The Hidden Cost of Dismissing Your Feelings - Inner Work
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
The Psychology Behind Chronic Pain, Fatigue & Nervous System Overload - Dr Sula Windgassen
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
The Hidden Cost of Seeking Reassurance - Inner Work
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-
Ghosting, Phobias & Anxiety? The Psychology of Extinction Learning
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 fasc
Looking Back At Old Relationships With New Eyes - Inner Work
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-
The Psychology of Attachment, Dating & Relational Patterns
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
Why You’re Always Overwhelmed | The Psychology of Priorities & Procrastination
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 com
Why So Many Employees Are Burning Out | Psychology of Workplace Wellbeing
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
What Is Narrative Therapy? Psychologists Explain (And Why It Changes Everything)
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
The Psychology Behind “Nobody’s Child” Trauma, Power & Why It’s Not That Simple
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
My Child Won’t Go to School… What’s Really Going On? (EBSNA Explained)
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
The Psychology of Fame, Addiction and Recovery with 90s Pop Star Kavana
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 ch
Is It Too Late to Become a Clinical Psychologist? Retraining at 40+ Explained
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
Fatty Liver Disease Explained: Symptoms, Causes & Can It Be Reversed?
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 los
Why Psychology Graduates Struggle to Get Assistant Psychologist Jobs (And What To Do Instead)
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
Girls, Sport & Confidence: The Psychology Schools Need to Understand
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 muc
Embodied Practice in Psychology: Managing Anger, Stress and Burnout
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 clinician
Disability and Leadership in Psychology | Dr Sunil Lad, NHS Clinical Director
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, Consulta
From International Student to Clinical Psychologist in the UK | Dr Samuel Chu
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 role
What Does an Educational Psychologist Actually Do? School Examples
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
What Teenage Mothers Really Need - A Teen Mum Psychologist’s Perspective
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 psycholog
The Psychology Mum: From NHS Clinician to Global Mental Health Creator
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 d
What Is It Really Like Working as a UK Clinical Psychologist in the UAE?
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
Has ‘Let Them’ Theory Gone Too Far? A Clinical Psychology Perspective
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 refle
What It Really Takes to Succeed After Growing Up in Care
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 syst
Life After the DClinPsy: Job Uncertainty, Anxiety & Real Choices
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
The Realities of Clinical Psychology Training (What Trainees Don’t Always Hear)
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,
Why LinkedIn Matters for Psychologists (Even If You Hate Social Media)
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore why LinkedIn matters for psychologists, even if social media feels uncomfortable or intimidating. I’m joined by Shirin Yazdian, and together we discuss visibility, authenticity, neurodiversity, advocacy, and the fear of getting things wrong online. We explore how LinkedIn can support aspiring and early-career psychologists through ne
The Psychology of Raising Boys Today (Beyond Toxic Masculinity)
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore the psychology of raising boys in today’s cultural climate. I’m joined by clinical psychologist Dr Matt Slavin, and together we discuss masculinity, misogyny, adolescence, identity, belonging, and emotional development. We explore why polarising narratives about manhood can feel so compelling, how fear and shame shape behaviour, and
Your Brain Is Ancient: Why Modern Life Feels So Hard
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore why modern life feels so overwhelming through the lens of evolutionary psychology and neuroscience. I’m joined by clinical psychologist Dr Matt Slavin, and together we discuss how our brains are still wired for survival in an ancient world, not the constant demands, uncertainty, and stimulation of modern society. We explore anxiety,
Travel, Identity & Becoming a Psychologist: Why the World Is Your Best Teacher
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore how travelling can genuinely make you a better psychologist by building empathy, perspective, flexibility and emotional intelligence in ways that classrooms cannot. I speak with Ben, an aspiring psychologist currently travelling in Chile, about backpacking across Canada and South America, using Workaway to combine voluntary work with
Training as a Psychologist While Blind: The Barriers No One Talks About
In this episode, I speak with trainee clinical psychologist Skie Hewitt about the reality of training and working in psychology while registered blind. We discuss stigma at interview, navigating inaccessible systems, working with a guide dog, using technology to adapt practice, identity-first language, the emotional labour of disability, and what supervisors and services need t
From Football Coach to Trainee Psychologist | Jack’s Unconventional Journey
In this episode, I speak with first year trainee clinical psychologist Jack Griffiths about his unconventional journey from football coaching in Wales to securing a training place after six DClinPsy application cycles. We discuss how he used non traditional experience to build his psychology identity, the challenges of being a male applicant in a female dominated profession, the pressure to demons
What Happens When You Leave Prison? Life After Release Explained
Dr Tania Rodrigues and Natalie Miller join Dr Marianne Trent to discuss what happens when someone leaves prison, why the first 48 hours after release are the most dangerous, and how homelessness, trauma, institutionalisation and lack of support contribute to reoffending. We explore real experiences of people leaving custody, the emotional toll on staff, the challenges with probation and GP registr
Justice on Trial: Why Punishment Doesn’t Heal | Chris Daw KC & Dr Marianne Trent
Barrister and author Chris Daw KC joins Dr Marianne Trent to discuss why punishment does not reduce crime and how trauma, inequality, childhood adversity and addiction drive people into the justice system. We explore the limitations of “getting tough on crime”, the impact of criminalising children, and what countries like Luxembourg and Switzerland can teach us about more effective, trauma-informe
From Radiography to Psychology | It’s Never Too Late to Change
Changing careers in your 30s or 40s can feel daunting — but it might also be the best decision you ever make. In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent talks with a former cancer-care radiographer who retrained as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP). They explore the emotional impact of working in healthcare, recognising burnout, overcoming fear, managing fin
Baby Bonding Activities: Why Bathing & Water Play Build Attachment
Looking for gentle and meaningful ways to bond with your baby? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent and Jo Wilson founder of Aqua Sensory and Bath Babies, explore how bath time, baby swimming, and water play can strengthen parent-baby bonding and early attachment.You’ll learn how simple baby bath routines, skin-to-skin moments, sensory play, and warm water can su
The Hidden Trauma of Male Rape | Consent, Myths & Healing
Male rape remains one of the most silenced and misunderstood forms of sexual trauma. In this powerful episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent speaks with Connor Whiteley, clinical psychology master’s student and host of The Psychology World Podcast, who courageously shares his lived experience of male sexual violence.Together, they explore the realities of male rape, the co
Why I Turned Down a DClinPsy Offer: Choosing Myself Over the Dream
What would make someone turn down a place on the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) after years of hard work and applications? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent speaks with Assistant Psychologist Will about his bold and values-led decision to decline a DClinPsy offer from Liverpool.We explore what it feels like to get the long-awaited offer only to re
Baby Loss Awareness: Why It Matters & How to Support Parents | Dr Kara Davey
Baby loss is one of the most painful and silenced experiences a parent can face. In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Clinical Psychologist Dr Kara Davey to explore why baby loss awareness matters, what bereaved parents really need, and how we can offer support with compassion rather than silence.Drawing on both professional expertise and her own liv
Compassion: The Antidote to Shame, Criticism & Trauma | Prof Paul Gilbert OBE
Why is compassion so powerful in healing shame and trauma? In this very special 200th episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast mini-series, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Professor Paul Gilbert OBE, founder of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). Together, they explore how compassion can soothe the harsh inner critic, reduce shame, and help us build healthier relationships with ourselves and othe
Prof Paul Gilbert OBE: Lessons on Compassion, Failure & Success in Psychology
Professor Paul Gilbert OBE joins Dr Marianne Trent on The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast to share powerful lessons on compassion, shame, failure and success in psychology. In this special 200th episode, Paul reflects on his career, the creation of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and what psychologists at every stage: aspiring, trainee and qualified can learn about resilience, self-kindness, and s
From Therapy to Best Selling Author: Dr Martha Deiros Collado’s Psychology Journey
Behind every bestselling psychology book is a story and a person. But what does it take to build a fulfilling psychology career and balance it with family life, writing, and impact beyond the therapy room? In this 199th episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Martha Deiros Collado, clinical psychologist and author of The Smartphone Solution and How to Be the
Recovering from Shame: Real Strategies That Actually Work
Have you ever carried a feeling that made you believe you were broken, unworthy, or unlovable? That’s the voice of shame but it doesn’t have to define you. In this follow-up to Episode 1 (“What Is Shame?”), Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent shares the practical, evidence-based strategies that help people recover from shame and rebuild their self-worth.From naming and externalising shame, to
How to Become a CBT Therapist: Training, Qualifications & What to Expect
Thinking about becoming a CBT therapist but not sure where to start? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Sahana, a qualified CBT therapist, to explore the full pathway from PWP training to becoming a band 7 CBT therapist.You’ll discover how the training works, what qualifications you need, and what life is really like during and after the course. Fr
What Is CBT? How Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Helps with Anxiety, Depression & More
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used and researched psychological therapies for anxiety, depression, and low mood but what actually happens in CBT sessions, and how does it work?In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent is joined by CBT therapist Sahana to explore what CBT is, how CBT works, and w
The Smartphone Solution: How to Mindfully Introduce Phones to Kids (and Ourselves)
Smartphones are everywhere but how do we know when (and how) to give one to our kids? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Martha Deiros Collado to talk about her new book, The Smartphone Solution. Together we explore how to mindfully introduce smartphones to children, set healthy boundaries, and rethink our own relationship
What Is Shame? A Psychologist Explains Its Hidden Power
Have you ever had a moment where you felt fundamentally flawed? Like something was wrong with you, not just what you did? That’s the voice of shame. In this solo episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent unpacks what shame really is, how it can quietly shape your mental health, and why naming it is a radical first step toward emotional healing.We explore
What Do I do if I am Heartbroken, Lost my Job or Had & Sudden Shocking News?
When your world turns upside down whether from a breakup, job loss, or sudden life-changing news it can feel impossible to cope. In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent shares essential emotional first aid strategies for managing grief, trauma, and distress after unexpected events.You’ll learn evidence-based techniques to help with overwhelm, a
From Police Officer to Trainee Clinical Psychologist at Age 47
Is it too late to become a clinical psychologist in your 40s or 50s? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Claire, a former police officer who medically retired, studied psychology with the Open University, and secured her first NHS Assistant Psychologist role at age 45. At 47, she was offered a place on the Doctorate in Clinical
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