Mastering Therapy

Natalie Stott

Welcome to the Mastering Therapy Podcast with me, Dr. Natalie Stott, a clinical psychologist. If you're a psychologist, psychotherapist, or counsellor looking to expand your skills, gain confidence, and discover fresh ways to make an impact with your clients, this is the show for you. We all know that creating meaningful change for our clients is incredibly fulfilling, but let’s face it—this work can be challenging, especially if you feel like you don’t have a big team around you. Mastering Therapy is a weekly podcast that can be your go-to source of professional development and connection, where therapists can learn from one another, share practical insights, and navigate the challenges of therapy together. Join us as Natalie sits down with experienced practitioners who dive into the nitty-gritty of what really happens in a therapy session. You’ll get a front-row seat to their methods, language, and strategies, as well as honest conversations about potential pitfalls and what to look out for. Whether you specialise in working with adults, children, or use a particular modality—or even an integrative approach—there’s something here for everyone who wants to add practical tools to their therapy toolkit. To stay up-to-date with new episodes and access valuable resources, visit www.masteringtherapy.com. You can also connect with us on social media and subscribe on all major podcast platforms. Looking forward to sharing this journey with you!

  1. S3E13: 20 Questions every therapist needs to ask themselves each year

    11/12/2025

    S3E13: 20 Questions every therapist needs to ask themselves each year

    How do you reflect on your year in practice? This episode marks the final of season three and offers a thoughtful approach to wrapping up the therapy year. Podcast Host and Clinical psychologist Dr. Natalie Stott leads listeners through the “Big 20 Questions” – a set of prompts designed to spark reflection and help therapists take stock, plan ahead, and care for themselves as well as their clients. From considering gratitude and values to learning from challenges, listeners are guided through practical steps for personal and professional growth. Highlights include: 01:02 Gratitude and noticing what’s supported you 04:23 The Big 20 Questions for reflecting on your practice 08:12 Insights learned from clients 11:13 Light bulb moments and identity as a therapist 14:02 Forward planning: Setting goals for June 2026 DOWNLOAD the 20 questions here Guest Info Dr. Natalie Stott is a clinical psychologist, founder of Supervisor Platform, and host of Mastering Therapy. She specialises in supporting therapists with supervision, reflection, and shaping meaningful careers. Website: https://www.masteringtherapy.com Resources mentioned Downloadable ‘Big 20 Questions’ reflection sheet (free on masteringtherapy.com)Supervisor Platform directoryTherapeutic writing episode with Dr Hannah TaylorStreamlining your practice episodeMailing list sign-up for further tools and updates This episode is a gentle guide to reflecting on the year gone by, noticing growth, and getting intentional about what’s next for you and your practice. Perfect if you want practical questions and tools to help you move into the new year with clarity and purpose. ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channel Follow Mastering therapy on instagram Connect with Dr Natalie Stott on LinkedIn SUPERVISOR...

    20 min
  2. SHORTS: S2E4 Why therapists need to talk about sex

    04/12/2025 · BONUS

    SHORTS: S2E4 Why therapists need to talk about sex

    SHORTS: S2E4 Why therapists need to talk about sex Full episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/s2e4-why-therapists-must-talk-about-sex-with-lu-cook/id1773673403?i=1000698029637 Youtube: https://youtu.be/C9ViCr9kmCw Guest Information: Louise Cook is a COSRT / BACP / NCPS registered Psychosexual and Relationship Psychotherapist currently working in private practice. She specialises in working with couples and individuals who are struggling in their intimate life. She runs a busy private practice, After In Love Therapy, and hosts the podcast of the same name, where she explores sex, relationships and life after rupture with refreshing honesty. You can connect with her via After In Love Therapy and on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-cook-33314a23/ https://www.afterinlove.com/ ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channel Follow Mastering therapy on instagram Connect with Dr Natalie Stott on LinkedIn SUPERVISOR PLATFORM Supervisor Platform is an online directory designed for therapists, psychologists, counsellors, and other mental health professionals to connect with qualified clinical supervisors. It makes it easy for practitioners to browse, compare, and contact supervisors based on their expertise, approach, and availability, while giving supervisors a professional space to showcase their services. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3') Disclaimer: The Mastering therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Natalie Stott (Dclinpsych, HPCP reg), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and should only be used by qualified professionals.  Mentioned in this episode: Supervisor platform SUPERVISOR PLATFORM: Visit www.supervisorplatform.com to search supervisors You can list your profile for free for 3 months Website

    8 min
  3. S3E12: IFS & parts work | Dr Zandra Bamford

    27/11/2025

    S3E12: IFS & parts work | Dr Zandra Bamford

    S3E12: IFS & parts work | Dr Zandra Bamford Have you ever wondered why some parts of you work so hard to protect you, while others seem to hold you back? This episode dives into Internal Family Systems (IFS) with psychologist and certified IFS consultant Dr Zandra Bamford. Together with host Dr. Natalie Stott, they break down the basics of the IFS model, from managers and firefighters to exiles and the core self. Discover how IFS works, where it comes from, and why it can help clients heal old wounds. The episode covers how IFS can be combined with other therapy styles, what training in IFS looks like, and the importance of self-awareness for therapists. There’s also a live demonstration where Dr. Natalie Stott explores her own conflicting parts, showcasing the process in action. Highlights include: 00:47 What are managers, firefighters, and exiles in IFS? 04:26 Exploring the core self: is it always present? 11:15 IFS vs other therapy methods: integrating approaches 14:02 Training in IFS: why it’s different and what to expect 38:24 Live demonstration: experiencing IFS with conflicting parts Guest Info Dr. Zandra Bamford Clinical Psychologist & Certified IFS Consultant Visit Zandra Bamford’s website here Trainings, Workshops and Retreats: https://therapy-northwest.cademy.io Book Online Internal Family Systems Therapy: https://internalfamilysystemstherapyonline.simplybook.it/v2/ Resources discussed • BOOK: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz • IFS informed EMDR (book, edited by David Pallidi, upcoming) • IFS training programmes (Level 1, Level 2, experiential workshops) • Mastering Therapy website and mailing list for further resources This episode offers a clear look at IFS, the roles different parts play in our inner world, and how connecting to our core self can change the way we live and work. Perfect for therapists wanting fresh perspective or anyone interested in therapy models that bring compassion and curiosity to the healing journey. ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** a...

    1h 19m
  4. S3E11: Values Clarification beyond the card sort

    19/11/2025

    S3E11: Values Clarification beyond the card sort

    S3E11: Values Clarification beyond the card sort What’s your go-to values exercise in therapy? This episode dives into values work in ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) with Dr. Natalie Stott, a clinical psychologist and founder of Supervisor Platform. The conversation busts the myth that values work is just about worksheets and gives creative ways for therapists to help clients clarify and live by their values. Dr. Natalie Stott shares practical tools, approaches for overcoming common obstacles in values work, and highlights how values fit into different models of therapy. If you’ve ever felt uninspired by the usual card sorts, this episode offers a fresh menu of ideas to use right away. Highlights include: 03:09 What are values in ACT – a simple definition 10:04 Creative values exercises beyond card sorts 16:33 Using pain and irritation to clarify values 21:42 Common problems in values work and troubleshooting 26:37 Integrating values across ACT, CBT, and other models Guest Info Dr. Natalie Stott Clinical psychologist, supervisor, and founder of Supervisor Platform Website: Supervisor Platform (link to be added) LinkedIn: (link to be added) Resources mentioned Values Card Sort (www.valuescardsort.com) SUPPORT it here Bullseye Exercise by Russ HarrisPlum et al. (2009) paper on valuesVIA Character Strengths SurveyPleasant Events List for DBT Links to these resources can be found in the show notes. Looking for inspiration in your values work? This episode is packed with practical ideas for therapists who want to help clients connect motivation to meaningful directions in life, no matter what approach you use. Guest Information: Social media: Website: Resources mentioned: In Search of Meaning: Values in Modern Clinical Behavior Analysis - PMC ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channel Follow Mastering therapy on instagram Connect with Dr Natalie Stott on...

    31 min
  5. S3E10: Bringing body work into the room | Dr Stephanie Minchin

    13/11/2025

    S3E10: Bringing body work into the room | Dr Stephanie Minchin

    S3E10: Bringing body work into the room | Dr Stephanie Minchin Do you want concrete ways to bring the body into your therapy room without losing clinical rigour? In this episode, Dr Stephanie Minchin (The Yoga Psychologist) lays out a clear, usable approach to integrating body work with talking therapy. We cover how to notice and use nonverbal data, why “embodiment” isn’t optional for clinicians, and simple practices you can introduce safely—no mats, no incense, just clinically sound, consent-led interventions. We also talk about pacing, consent, and how to avoid performative “somatic add-ons.” Highlights include: 02:10 Why the body isn’t optional: the 90% nonverbal problem05:00 Quick wins: noticing breath, posture, micro-shifts (no yoga poses required)08:15 Pacing and consent: how to invite, not impose12:20 Therapist embodiment: doing your own work so clients don’t carry it16:05 Using the body in CBT: making the “missing quarter” explicit in formulation19:30 Language for the room: “Would it be okay to check what your ribs are doing?”23:10 Working with disconnection: repetition, misunderstanding, repair27:40 Safety first: red flags, grounding, and when not to proceed31:00 Case vignettes: micro-interventions that shift the session35:20 Integrating, not bolting on: making body work part of supervision and CPD Guest Information: Dr Stephanie Minchin is a clinical psychologist and yoga-informed therapist known as The Yoga Psychologist. Her work sits at the intersection of evidence-based therapy and bodywork, helping clinicians move beyond “head-only” practice. She teaches practical, consent-led ways to use breath, posture and nonverbal cues in session, and champions therapist embodiment as core CPD, not an optional extra. Embodied Entrepreneur Circle - monthly membership - a scared sanctuary for therapists, coaches, yogis who centre their self care at the heart of their business https://www.houseofyogapsychology.com/embodied-entrepreneur-circle Embodied Entrepreneur Mentorship - 6 months - for aspiring professionals who work in the field of psychology and/or yoga, and want to navigate their professional identity, discover their inner leader, build confidence, create purpose and passion and build dharma-based businesses https://www.houseofyogapsychology.com/embodied-entrepreneur INTEGRATE course - for therapists and yogis who want to learn the framework of Yoga Psychology to deepen their understanding and expand their knowledge and broaden their skills set of mind body approaches to become more integrative practitioners - self-led programme; 6 modules, online https://www.houseofyogapsychology.com/integrate other self-led programmes on my website (3 day, 5 day packages) https://www.houseofyogapsychology.com/self-practice Instagram: @theyogapsychologist @houseofyogapsychology https://www.houseofyogapsychology.com/ ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the...

    52 min
  6. S3E9 Therapeutic writing & journal prompts in therapy | Dr Hannah Taylor

    06/11/2025

    S3E9 Therapeutic writing & journal prompts in therapy | Dr Hannah Taylor

    S3E9 Therapeutic writing & journal prompts in therapy | Dr Hannah Taylor Do you use therapeutic writing in your sessions? This episode looks at therapeutic writing with clinical psychologist Dr Hannah Taylor. She shares practical ways journalling can support clients both inside and outside sessions, drawing from her background in compassion focused therapy. The conversation covers common barriers to journalling, the difference between journalling and therapeutic writing, and tips for making writing a helpful part of the therapy process. If you’re a therapist wanting to add simple writing tools to your practice, or someone thinking about journalling for yourself, this episode is full of ideas you can try straight away. Highlights include: 02:43 Defining therapeutic writing versus journalling 06:40 Introducing writing as a therapy tool and tackling common judgments 11:00 Practical tips for creating awareness through writing 14:20 Pen and paper vs. digital journalling 23:25 Using writing in therapy sessions and working with client resistance Guest Information: Dr Hannah Elizabeth Taylor’s Substack: Inner Pages Resources discussed Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (morning pages practice) ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channel Follow Mastering therapy on instagram Connect with Dr Natalie Stott on LinkedIn SUPERVISOR PLATFORM Supervisor Platform is an online directory designed for therapists, psychologists, counsellors, and other mental health professionals to connect with qualified clinical supervisors. It makes it easy for practitioners to browse, compare, and contact supervisors based on their expertise, approach, and availability, while giving supervisors a professional space to showcase their services. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3') Disclaimer: The Mastering therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Natalie Stott (Dclinpsych, HPCP reg), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and should only be used by qualified professionals.  Mentioned in this episode: Supervisor platform SUPERVISOR PLATFORM: Visit www.supervisorplatform.com to search supervisors You can list your...

    50 min
  7. S3E9: How to use the nurturing figures exercise | Wendy Castelino

    30/10/2025

    S3E9: How to use the nurturing figures exercise | Wendy Castelino

    Have you used this nurturing figures tool in your sessions before? In this episode of the Mastering Therapy Podcast, Dr. Natalie Stott discusses the use of nurturing figures in therapy sessions with experienced psychotherapist Wendy Castelino. The conversation covers various therapeutic modalities, such as CFT and EMDR, and the importance of nurturing figures for trauma and anxiety management. Wendy, who is accredited in multiple therapeutic disciplines, shares her journey from drama therapy to integrative psychotherapy and explains how nurturing figures can significantly impact therapy outcomes. The episode also includes practical advice on introducing and practicing nurturing figures, as well as addressing potential emotional responses from clients. 00:54 Meet Wendy: An Experienced Psychotherapist 02:43 Exploring Nurturing Figures in Therapy 05:14 Practical Applications and Client Experiences 08:19 Integrating Compassion Focused Therapy and EMDR 10:53 Guiding Clients Through Nurturing Figures Exercises 12:01 Addressing Challenges and Emotional Responses 19:19 Scripts and Resources for Therapists 25:57 Conclusion and Additional Resources Guest Information: Social media: Website: https://wendycastelino.com/ ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channel Follow Mastering therapy on instagram Connect with Dr Natalie Stott on LinkedIn SUPERVISOR PLATFORM Supervisor Platform is an online directory designed for therapists, psychologists, counsellors, and other mental health professionals to connect with qualified clinical supervisors. It makes it easy for practitioners to browse, compare, and contact supervisors based on their expertise, approach, and availability, while giving supervisors a professional space to showcase their services. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3') Disclaimer: The Mastering therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Natalie Stott (Dclinpsych, HPCP reg), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and should only be used by qualified professionals.  Mentioned in this episode: Supervisor platform SUPERVISOR PLATFORM: Visit www.supervisorplatform.com to search supervisors You can list your profile for free for 3...

    27 min
  8. S3E8 A new way to formulate health anxiety | Dr Sophie Gwinnett

    23/10/2025

    S3E8 A new way to formulate health anxiety | Dr Sophie Gwinnett

    Do you work with clients who struggle with health anxiety? This episode dives into the world of health anxiety with consultant clinical psychologist Dr. Sophie Gwinett. Sophie shares her new layered model, offering a fresh and practical way to understand and formulate health anxiety. The conversation covers how traditional CBT can sometimes fall short, introduces the "house of health anxiety" metaphor, and discusses the powerful impact of early experiences. Listeners will hear practical examples for working with shame, cycles of anxiety, and how to build a more compassionate therapeutic approach. Sophie also explains how to collaborate with GPs and health teams, and the importance of addressing health anxiety at a systemic level. Highlights include: 03:05 Why current models sometimes fall short 06:52 The “house of health anxiety” metaphor 11:10 Avoidance and safety behaviours 17:03 Formulation in session and mapping with clients 23:09 EMDR and layered interventions Guest Information: Dr. Sophie Gwinett www.brightsidepsychology.com, Visit her health anxiety hub: www.healthanxietyhub.com, LinkedIn: @drsophiegwinnett Follow on Instagram: @rsophygwinnett Resources discussed CBT model for health anxiety (Salkovskis et al.)Health Anxiety Hub website – information and articlesEMDR and flash forward interventionsACT techniques for health anxietyGP formulation letter for collaborative care Social media: Website: Resources mentioned: ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes ** For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.com To recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guest For private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com ***** Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channel Follow Mastering therapy on instagram Connect with Dr Natalie Stott on LinkedIn SUPERVISOR PLATFORM Supervisor Platform is an online directory designed for therapists, psychologists, counsellors, and other mental health professionals to connect with qualified clinical supervisors. It makes it easy for practitioners to browse, compare, and contact supervisors based on their expertise, approach, and availability, while giving supervisors a professional space to showcase their services. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code...

    40 min

Trailers

5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Mastering Therapy Podcast with me, Dr. Natalie Stott, a clinical psychologist. If you're a psychologist, psychotherapist, or counsellor looking to expand your skills, gain confidence, and discover fresh ways to make an impact with your clients, this is the show for you. We all know that creating meaningful change for our clients is incredibly fulfilling, but let’s face it—this work can be challenging, especially if you feel like you don’t have a big team around you. Mastering Therapy is a weekly podcast that can be your go-to source of professional development and connection, where therapists can learn from one another, share practical insights, and navigate the challenges of therapy together. Join us as Natalie sits down with experienced practitioners who dive into the nitty-gritty of what really happens in a therapy session. You’ll get a front-row seat to their methods, language, and strategies, as well as honest conversations about potential pitfalls and what to look out for. Whether you specialise in working with adults, children, or use a particular modality—or even an integrative approach—there’s something here for everyone who wants to add practical tools to their therapy toolkit. To stay up-to-date with new episodes and access valuable resources, visit www.masteringtherapy.com. You can also connect with us on social media and subscribe on all major podcast platforms. Looking forward to sharing this journey with you!

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