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
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
No Assistant Psychologist Role? How Job Crafting Can Shape Your Psychology Career
Worried you're falling behind because you haven’t secured an assistant psychologist (AP) role yet? You’re not alone - but don’t panic. In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent explores how job crafting can help you shape a successful psychology career even without a formal AP title.Learn how to adapt your current or future roles to gain relevant
Assisted Dying in the UK: A Psychologist’s Perspective on Choice, Suffering & Compassion
Should assisted dying be legal in the UK and what role can psychologists play in this deeply personal, ethical debate? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent shares reflections on end-of-life care, personal experiences of witnessing suffering, and the psychological complexities surrounding assisted dying.You’ll learn about the current legal stance in the UK, the ro
Death Anxiety: What It Is, Why It Happens & How Therapy Can Help - Thanatophia
Are you struggling with a fear of death or constantly thinking about your own mortality? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent explores death anxiety also known as thanatophobia and why some people experience an intense fear of dying or non-existence.We discuss how childhood experiences, trauma, attachment, and even parenting styles can contr
Adult Autism Diagnosis: Signs You Might Be Autistic and What the Process Involves
Could you be autistic and not know it? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by clinical psychologist and autism specialist Dr Katie Adolphus to unpack what adult autism diagnosis really involves.They explore the signs that may be missed in childhood, why women and marginalised groups often go undiagnosed, and what the formal assessment process looks lik
Could It Be ADHD? Understanding Adult Diagnosis & Coaching
Could your distractibility, overwhelm, or forgetfulness be signs of ADHD — even in adulthood? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Kara Davey, Clinical Psychologist and ADHD assessor and coach to explore what ADHD can look like in adults, especially those missed in childhood.They discuss common adult ADHD symptoms, how late diagnoses are made, and
HCPC Audit Survival Guide: What Psychologists Need to Know
What happens during an HCPC CPD audit and how do you pass it with confidence? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, clinical psychologist Dr Carly Pointon joins Dr Marianne Trent to explain the CPD audit process for psychologists regulated by the HCPC. Learn what documents to include in your portfolio, how long you have to respond, and what the HCPC is really looking for in your su
What Happens During an HCPC FTP Investigation? Emotional and Legal Insights - Fitness to Practise
What really happens during an HCPC Fitness to Practise (FTP) investigation? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent speaks with legal consultant Nicholas Stöckling to break down the HCPC FTP process, what it involves, how long it takes, and what it feels like to be under investigation. Designed for psychologists and healthcare professionals, this conversation covers
Feeling Broken by Your Job? It Could Be Moral Injury
Have you ever felt like your job goes against your values? You might be experiencing moral injury a powerful concept that explains why work can sometimes feel emotionally overwhelming, especially in healthcare, education, policing and public services. In this solo episode, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent explores how moral injury shows up, its link to burnout, and what you can do to feel m
Started a New Job and Hate It? What to Do Next
Started a new job and instantly felt like it was the wrong move? You’re not alone and you’re not failing. In this episode, Clinical Psychologist Dr Marianne Trent & Kelly-Marie Lovesy explore what to do when a new job doesn’t feel right. From recognising early warning signs and managing anxiety to dealing with guilt, regret, and pressure to push through this episode offers compassionate, pract
Teen Dad Support: Real Help for Young Fathers
What support is available for teenage dads and why does it matter? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent speaks with assistant psychologist Allie, who works on a groundbreaking pilot project in Bristol supporting young fathers under 25. They explore the challenges teen dads face, from being excluded by perinatal services to navigating stigma, co-parenting, and lac
Why ME/CFS Isn’t Just Tiredness: A Psychologist Breaks It Down
ME/CFS isn’t just tiredness, it’s a life-changing, often misunderstood neurological condition that impacts everything from mobility and cognition to emotional wellbeing. In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr Beth Godwin shares her powerful lived experience with ME/CFS, including how it affected her career, identity, and day-to-day life. We discuss spoon theory, post-exertional malaise, pacing,
Grief in Young Adulthood: Losing a Parent Before 30
Losing a parent in your teens or twenties is a uniquely painful experience that can shape your identity, relationships, and mental health for years to come. In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent speaks with Harry and Hannah from It's Time Charity, which supports young adults aged 16–30 who have experienced parental loss. Together, they explore the impact of grief
What Do Occupational Psychologists Actually Do? Organisational Psychology
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent talks to Dr. Joe Grey, an experienced organisational psychologist, about what occupational and organisational psychologists actually do. We explore how occupational psychology helps to improve workplace wellbeing, support employees during major change, reduce burnout, and build proactive, psychologically safe cultures. Whethe
The Psychology of Feedback: How to Receive It (Without Falling Apart)
Why does feedback sometimes feel like a personal attack, even when it’s meant to help? In this episode, Dr Marianne Trent explores the emotional and psychological reactions we have to feedback, particularly when it touches on our sense of self-worth. Whether it’s a peer review, a supervisor’s suggestion, or an unsolicited comment, learning to receive feedback without spiralling can transform your
Becoming a Clinical Psychologist: My Story - Dr Marianne Trent
Ever wondered what it really takes to become a clinical psychologist? In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Marianne Trent reads her personal chapter from The Clinical Psychologist Collective for the very first time. She shares her authentic journey from assistant psychologist to qualification, including setbacks, creative CV boosters, tips for reflective writing, and advice for standing ou
Do You Have to Drive to Be a Psychologist? Hidden Discrimination in Mental Health Employment?
Is a driving licence an essential requirement to become a psychologist, or is it a hidden barrier that excludes talented individuals from progressing in their careers? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Jake, an aspiring psychologist, to unpack the real-world challenges of not being able to drive in a profession where mobility is often assumed. The
What to Do After a Traumatic Event: Advice from a Psychologist
Advice What should you do after experiencing a traumatic event? In this episode, Clinical Psychologist Dr. Marianne Trent breaks down key psychological advice for understanding and managing trauma. Learn what trauma is, how it affects the brain and body, and the steps you can take to start feeling safe again. This episode is ideal for those supporting others through trauma, those on their own heal
What Makes a Great Psychologist? The Skills & Traits That Matter Most
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent explores the essential skills and traits that truly make a psychologist great. Through engaging examples and roleplays (with bonus costumes!), Marianne brings to life the human qualities that set excellent practitioners apart.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction01:07 - Empathy & Emotional Intelligence02:11 - Roleplay: What
Why We Grieve Celebrities: The Psychology of Loss & Liam Payne
In this solo episode, Dr. Marianne Trent explores why the loss of a celebrity like Liam Payne or Matthew Perry can feel so personal — even if we’ve never met them. We unpack the psychology of parasocial relationships, disenfranchised grief, and how mental health professionals may feel these losses even more acutely. Whether you're grieving a public figure or supporting others who are, this episode
Supporting Autistic & LD Individuals: The Reality of PBS, TiC & ABA - Autism
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent is joined by Hannah to explore different approaches to supporting autistic individuals. They discuss the frameworks of PBS (Positive Behaviour Support), TIC (Trauma-Informed Care), and ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis), shedding light on their uses, limitations, and impact on autistic people.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding Dif
What Is Complex Trauma? Causes, Symptoms & Healing – C-PTSD
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent delves into the topic of complex trauma (C-PTSD). She explores what complex trauma is, how it manifests in adulthood, and most importantly, the potential for healing. Through a fictional but realistic case study, Marianne demonstrates the profound impact of complex trauma and shares effective therapeutic approaches for recove
Why it's never too Late to become a Psychologist - Advice for Older Applicants
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent explores why it’s never too late to pursue a psychology career. Whether you're considering a career change or thinking about applying for psychology training later in life, this episode is packed with encouragement, insights, and practical advice.Other Episodes mentioned in this one: How to start a psychology career in your 3
From NHS to Private Practice: A Psychologist's Journey
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent is joined by Dr. Rosie Gilderthorpe to discuss her journey from working in the NHS to establishing a thriving private practice. They explore the challenges, rewards, and mindset shifts required to make the transition, as well as the opportunities that private practice can offer for both clinicians and clients.Key TakeawaysUnc
Can You Have a Successful Career with Bipolar Disorder? A Real-Life Story
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent is joined by Laura Templeman, who shares her journey of managing a successful career in mental health while living with bipolar disorder. From diagnosis to daily challenges and strategies for balancing work and well-being, Laura’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and self-awareness.Key Takeaways:Living with Bipolar
Autistic Girls: Misdiagnosis, Masking, and Breaking Stereotypes
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent is joined by Hannah, an assistant psychologist, to explore the challenges autistic girls face in getting diagnosed, how masking plays a role, and why early identification is crucial. They discuss the importance of compassion, understanding, and tailored support for autistic individuals, particularly in educational settings.Ti
How Psychologists Can Build Passive Income (And Why You Should)
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent explores how psychologists and mental health professionals can build sustainable careers with passive income. She breaks down common mindset blocks, explores different income streams, and shares practical first steps to help you get started.To access Marianne's Replay masterclasses on passive income, working smarter not harde
What Happened When 8 Sane People Pretended to Be Mentally Ill - Documentary - Rosenhan Experiment
In this documentary episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent dives deep into the groundbreaking and controversial Rosenhan Experiment of the 1970s. She explores its methodology, findings, ethical implications, and ongoing relevance in psychology and beyond.Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction01:16 - The Experiment Unfolds03:33 - Psychological Insights05:56 - Fallout and Controv
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Out To Lunch
A Life More Wild
Shut Up I’m Talking
ADHD Chatter
Frank Off The Radio: The Frank Skinner Podcast
Desert Island Discs
