Therapy Works

Julia Samuel
  • 5.0 (22)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Therapy Works

Bestselling author and psychotherapist, Julia Samuel, invites us into her therapy room as she talks to both known and unknown voices about some of life’s biggest challenges. Therapy Works is full of therapeutic conversations which may contain difficult emotions but those that can paradoxically bring light, in all its form. Listeners will hear what the guests have learnt, failed to learn and how they have grown through their experience. At the end of each episode, Julia reflects on her session with her two psychotherapist daughters who will share their thoughts on the conversation. You’ll quickly discover that not all therapists agree on everything! Follow @juliasamuelmbe

  1. Nadiya Hussain on Defying Expectations & Fighting Self-Doubt

    20M AGO

    Nadiya Hussain on Defying Expectations & Fighting Self-Doubt

    In this episode of the Therapy Works podcast, Nadiya Hussain shares her journey from a housewife to a renowned baker and author, detailing the challenges she faced along the way. She discusses the impact of her immigrant background, societal pressures, and personal struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. Nadiya touches upon her career’s milestones, including her victory on The Great British Bake Off, and how each new project brings its own set of challenges and expectations. She also reflects on family dynamics, the significance of open communication, and the importance of maintaining dreams and aspirations despite obstacles. The conversation highlights Nadiya's relentless determination, love for family, and the unique challenges she faces as a British Bangladeshi Muslim woman in the public eye. 00:09 Nadiya's Multifaceted Identity 00:54 Challenges and Overcoming Them 02:15 Facing Criticism and Bias 06:25 Childhood Dreams and Realizations 09:34 Family Dynamics and Cultural Expectations 11:35 Pursuing Education Against All Odds 23:57 Marriage and Personal Growth 25:06 Navigating Family Dynamics and Adaptability 27:47 Understanding Parental Decisions and Forgiveness 29:23 The Legacy of Courage and Change 32:08 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Achievements 36:31 Facing Cultural and Professional Hurdles 41:39 Family, Fame, and Open Communication 48:11 Embracing Challenges and Personal Growth Find Nadiya: Website: https://www.nadiyahussain.com/ Instagram: @nadiyajhussain Buy Nadiya's new book 'Rooza': https://www.nadiyahussain.com/book/rooza/ Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 12m

  2. 5D AGO

    Agony Aunties: Should You Tell Someone They Were Donor-Conceived?

    In this episode, the Agony Aunties discuss a delicate and complex issue brought up by a listener whose partner's brother has two adult daughters conceived using a sperm donor. Despite being aware of the donor conception, the daughters have never been told, and the listener seeks advice on whether and how they should be informed. The Agony Aunties emphasise the importance of the biological parents handling the conversation and suggest seeking support from organisations like the Donor Conception Network. They also recommend exploring personal fears around disclosure and preparing for the conversation through therapy. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the roles family members can play in providing support and maintaining strong relationships. Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    10 min
  3. Lucy Brazier on How Life Changing a Diagnosis Can Be

    MAR 5

    Lucy Brazier on How Life Changing a Diagnosis Can Be

    In this episode of the Therapy Works podcast, Julia Samuel welcomes Lucy Brazier, the author of 'The Honesty Box', who candidly shares the challenges she faces in her marriage due to her husband's longstanding struggles with depression. Lucy discusses the transformative impact of an eventual ADHD and autism diagnosis on their relationship, their coping mechanisms, and the critical role of honest communication.  Their story also highlights systemic issues in mental health diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the episode features a discussion among Julia and her daughters about the broader implications of these struggles in marriages, underscoring the importance of understanding, patience, and resilience. 00:32 Struggles with Depression in Marriage 00:59 Decision to Divorce 02:25 Emotional Impact and Resentment 03:20 Challenges of Supporting a Depressed Partner 11:32 Discovery of ADHD 13:04 The Honesty Box Project 16:46 Impact of ADHD Diagnosis 26:44 Dual Diagnosis: ADHD and ASD 30:54 Understanding Family Dynamics 31:17 Balancing Openness and Protection 33:02 Collective Agency in Mental Health 34:23 Navigating Differences in Marriage 36:31 Embracing Imperfections and Courage 39:14 The Importance of Honest Conversations 40:24 Coping Mechanisms and Adaptations 54:05 The Role of Diagnosis and Acceptance 57:08 Reflections on Divorce and Relationships Buy Lucy's book: https://amzn.eu/d/990Khdl Instagram: @brazier.lucy Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 8m

  4. FEB 28

    EXPERT EPISODE: Owen O'Kane on why anxiety feels addictive

    In this engaging episode, Owen O'Kane, a psychotherapist, former palliative care specialist, and ex-NHS clinical lead for mental health, shares his professional journey and deeply personal story. He reflects on his transition from nursing in palliative care to training as a psychotherapist, a shift inspired by witnessing the profound psychological distress many patients faced. Owen also opens up about his upbringing in Northern Ireland during the Troubles and the personal struggles of coming out as gay in a Catholic family. He highlights how his lived experiences shape his therapeutic approach, emphasising the power of empathy, trauma awareness, and emotional resilience in mental health care. Drawing from his latest book, Addicted to Anxiety, Owen introduces the concept that anxiety can function like an addiction, offering a false sense of safety while keeping individuals trapped in cycles of fear. He discusses practical strategies for managing anxiety, including learning to acknowledge, accept, and even befriend the anxious self rather than resisting it. His insights provide a fresh and compassionate perspective on understanding anxiety, helping listeners develop greater self-awareness and healthier coping mechanisms to break free from its grip. Buy Owen's new book, 'Addicted to Anxiety': https://amzn.eu/d/cxRKYCD Follow Owen: @owenokaneten Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    50 min

  5. FEB 26

    Iain Dale on Balancing Public and Private Life

    In this episode of the Therapy Works podcast, broadcaster, author, and political commentator Iain Dale shares an intimate look at his career and personal journey. He opens up about the pressures of public life, imposter syndrome, and health struggles, as well as the deeply personal experience of coming out to his family. Through candid storytelling, Iain reflects on the importance of being seen and validated by loved ones, the impact of childhood experiences, and the complex emotions surrounding his relationship with his mother. Iain discusses the challenges of navigating a public career while staying true to himself, offering insights into the role of therapy, personal reflection, and overcoming self-doubt. A thought-provoking and heartfelt episode, this discussion reminds us of the importance of embracing vulnerability and finding strength in our personal stories. 01:22 Challenges of a Public Role 10:15 Health Struggles and Personal Reflections 19:36 Coming Out and Family Reactions 28:10 Reflecting on a Mother's Love and Regret 29:04 Complex Emotions and Unspoken Wounds 30:04 Career Reflections and Family Dynamics 30:45 Navigating Public and Private Life 31:47 The Journey of Acceptance and Identity 33:03 Thoughts on Parenthood and Personal Choices 35:33 Imposter Syndrome and Professional Growth 38:06 The Role of Education and Early Influences 39:34 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Finding Confidence 40:36 The Breakthrough in Radio 44:49 Final Reflections Find Iain:  Instagram: @iaindale X: @IainDale Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 7m

  6. FEB 21

    Agony Aunties on Finding Grief Support That Fits

    In this episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a heartfelt message from a listener struggling with the loss of a close friend. As an atheist, they feel isolated and alienated by the predominantly Christian language surrounding grief. The Agony Aunties explore the importance of finding grief support that resonates with non-religious individuals and suggest alternatives like The Grief Gang. They acknowledge the profound pain and loneliness that can come with grief, emphasising the need for open expression and validation of loss. The conversation also delves into the role of anger in the grieving process, highlighting its importance as a natural emotional response. The Agony Aunties share practical ways to navigate grief, including emotional regulation techniques and finding therapists or support communities that respect non-religious perspectives. This episode serves as a reminder that everyone deserves compassionate and inclusive support, no matter their beliefs. Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    13 min

  7. FEB 19

    Lottie Clark on the Difficult Decision of Assisted Dying

    In this deeply moving episode of Therapy Works, Lottie Clark shares the story of her husband James’s battle with motor neurone disease. She opens up about the emotional and physical toll of his diagnosis, the challenges of caring for a loved one with a terminal illness, and the difficult decisions their family faced—including James’s choice to pursue assisted dying at Dignitas. Lottie speaks candidly about the impact on their children, the process of saying goodbye, and the long road of grief that follows loss. This conversation offers an intimate look at navigating life when faced with unimaginable circumstances. Lottie’s story is one of heartbreak but also of deep strength and unwavering love. She reflects on the power of open conversations, the importance of honouring personal choices in end-of-life care, and her ongoing campaign for assisted dying legislation. This is an episode about grief, but also about the extraordinary courage it takes to walk alongside someone through their final chapter. 00:55 Facing a Terminal Diagnosis 04:41 The Emotional Impact and Initial Reactions 06:36 Planning for the Future 13:01 Communicating with the Children 15:11 The Decision for Assisted Dying 26:55 Reflecting on the Impact of Loss 27:26 Honest Conversations with Children 29:32 A Final Family Trip 31:44 Saying Goodbye 33:12 Campaigning for Assisted Dying 36:29 The Journey of Repatriation 39:20 Finding Strength in Love 50:22 The Complexity of Assisted Dying 57:34 The Long Road of Grief If you are looking to campaign, please find out more here: https://www.dignityindying.org.uk/ This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self. Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 7m

  8. FEB 14

    Agony Aunties on Finding the Right Therapist

    In this episode, we discuss navigating the challenges of finding a suitable therapist, especially when finances are a concern. We cover various aspects such as therapist fees, the importance of a good therapist-client fit, and practical advice on utilising sliding scales, group therapy, and recommendations from friends. We also touch on the value of accredited therapists and the benefits of support from voluntary organizations and training institutes. The conversation includes tips on making initial free phone calls to therapists and emphasises the power and affordability of group therapy. 00:36 Challenges in Finding the Right Therapist 00:59 Financial Considerations and Sliding Scale Options 01:34 Importance of Therapist-Client Fit 04:10 Exploring Group Therapy 07:04 Alternative Therapy Options and Final Thoughts Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    11 min
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Hosts & Guests

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Bestselling author and psychotherapist, Julia Samuel, invites us into her therapy room as she talks to both known and unknown voices about some of life’s biggest challenges. Therapy Works is full of therapeutic conversations which may contain difficult emotions but those that can paradoxically bring light, in all its form. Listeners will hear what the guests have learnt, failed to learn and how they have grown through their experience. At the end of each episode, Julia reflects on her session with her two psychotherapist daughters who will share their thoughts on the conversation. You’ll quickly discover that not all therapists agree on everything! Follow @juliasamuelmbe

Information

  • Creator
    Julia Samuel
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    160
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Julia Samuel
  • Show Website
    Therapy Works

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