Empathy Corner with Toad Counselling

Tony Matthews
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  • MENTAL HEALTH

Our podcast looks to challenge the stigma around therapy and explore how it can help anyone dealing with life issues such as identity, career, relationships, and more. We share personal stories and highlight the importance of empathy in therapy. Join us in promoting a more understanding society around mental health.

Episodes

  1. 04/30/2025

    Learning to Listen: One Counsellor’s Path Through Training and Compassion

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised.In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Clare, a student counsellor, to explore the deeply personal journey of becoming a therapist. From the first sparks of inspiration to real world experiences supporting clients with anxiety and depression, Clare shares the moments that have shaped her path. Together, we talk about the challenges, the lessons, and the emotional resilience it takes to hold space for others. This is an honest, compassionate conversation about growth, empathy, and the making of a therapist. ----- We have created a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation ----- !Support and Resources can be found ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠

    50 min

  2. 03/31/2025

    SoulCarers – Born from Experience, Built for Empowerment

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Christine — founder and director of SoulCarers — shares the story of how the company came to life five years ago. Born from her own lived experience with mental health challenges, and shaped by what she witnessed within her own family, SoulCarers was created from a place of understanding, compassion, and a desire to do things differently. Christine opens up about the moments that led her to create a service that enables, rather than just supports — one that walks alongside individuals as they work to reclaim their lives, their confidence, and their sense of self. This is more than a story of a company — it’s a story of healing, human connection, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to get back on track with the right care around them. Learn more at soulcarers.org — and thank you for joining us in hearing the heart behind SoulCarers. ----- We have created a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation ----- !Support and Resources can be found ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠

    42 min

  3. 02/28/2025

    Fighting Through Life – Steve’s Martial Arts Journey

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. Life isn’t just about the battles we face while training, it’s about the ones we fight within ourselves. Fighting Through Life is a deeply personal and inspiring podcast that follows Steve’s journey through martial arts, beginning as a teenager seeking strength after experiencing bullying. Growing up with anxiety and depression, Steve turned to martial arts as more than just a class of self-defence training, it became a lifeline, a way to find discipline, confidence, and inner peace. Through the struggles of adulthood, martial arts remained a guiding force, helping him navigate life’s challenges and manage his mental health. Now, as the leader and Sensei of his own club, Steve shares his experiences, lessons learned, and the ongoing mission to help others through the power of martial arts. Join us as we explore resilience, mental health, and the transformative impact of martial arts. Whether you’re on your own journey or simply looking for inspiration, Fighting Through Life is a testament to the strength we can find within. ----- We have created a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation ----- !Support and Resources can be found ⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠

    54 min

  4. 01/31/2025

    A Journey of Resilience with Mario

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. In our first episode of 2025, I am honoured to sit down with Mario, a former Royal Marine whose story is as inspiring as it is heartfelt. After dedicating 12 years of his life to the military, Mario faced unimaginable struggles upon leaving in 2018. A marriage breakdown, mental health challenges, and a period of feeling utterly lost left him in a dark place—but his journey didn’t end there. Through sheer determination, the courage to seek help, and an unwavering desire to rebuild his life, Mario began walking his way to healing—quite literally. Taking on multi-day treks to support charities and most recently completing a two-day bike ride from Plymouth to North Devon, Mario discovered how physical endurance could nurture his mental strength. This episode is a raw and vulnerable conversation about overcoming life’s toughest challenges, finding purpose in adversity, and giving back to others while healing yourself. Whether you’ve faced your own battles or simply want to be inspired by someone who refuses to give up, this episode is a must-listen. Let Mario’s story remind us all of the power of resilience, community, and the human spirit. ----- We have created a ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group community⁠⁠⁠⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation ----- !Support and Resources can be found ⁠⁠⁠HERE

    58 min

  5. 12/02/2024

    Depression & Anxiety with Jeff

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. In our fourth episode focused on Depression and Anxiety, we sit down with Jeff, a resilient entrepreneur and a dedicated councillor in Devon, who has faced unimaginable challenges in his life. Jeff's journey is marked by profound loss and heartbreak, with the passing of loved ones and the sudden discovery of cancer turning his world upside down. Alongside these struggles, he committed himself to providing end-of-life care for a close friend, fulfilling a promise to ensure they left this world with dignity. As Jeff navigated these turbulent waters, he found himself withdrawing from the world, wrestling with anxiety and depression, and grappling with even the simplest daily tasks. However, amidst the storm, he discovered the hidden courage to confront his circumstances, supported by his loving family and friends. In this episode, Jeff shares his poignant story of resilience, the importance of seeking professional help, and the transformative power of connection and support in reclaiming one's life. Join us as we delve into Jeff's inspiring journey, aiming to foster understanding and compassion surrounding mental health struggles. Whether you’re facing similar challenges or seeking to better understand those who are, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that no one has to navigate their battles alone. We have created a ⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group community⁠⁠⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation !Support and Resources can be found ⁠⁠HERE

    49 min

  6. 10/31/2024

    A Student Counsellors Journey

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. In our third episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with L, a student counsellor who opened up about her own personal journey towards a career in counselling and therapy. With compassion and a deep sense of empathy, L shared her experiences of the many challenges she faced on her path, including the ups and downs, worries, fears, and struggles with anxiety and depression that she herself encountered along the way, and met with clients in her work. Throughout the episode, L's inspirational story underscores the vital importance of empathy and compassion in the field of counselling and mental health. Her insights and practical advice will be of immense value to anyone considering this rewarding line of work. As L helped us to understand, being a counsellor requires not only a solid foundation in theory and practice, but also a genuine, compassionate heart, balancing empathy with professionalism. So, whether you are a student counsellor yourself, or someone looking to better understand the importance of empathy and compassion in the mental health profession, this episode is a must-listen. From the personal stories to the practical advice, it's a fascinating and deeply human exploration of what it takes to make a real difference in people's lives. We have created a ⁠⁠Facebook Group community⁠⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation !Support and Resources can be found ⁠HERE

    54 min

  7. 09/30/2024

    Depression & Anxiety with Anna

    Trigger Warning: This episode includes a discussion of rape/sexual assault and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In our second episode, our guest, Anna shares her powerful story of surviving sexual assault and the resulting trauma that led to attempted suicide, and suicidal ideation. Despite struggling with the aftermath of such a violent experience, Anna has found the strength to seek help and support and shares her journey of healing with our listeners. Her story is both heart breaking and inspiring, as she discusses the importance of seeking professional help and finding a support system to aid in recovery. This episode is a powerful reminder that survivors of sexual assault are never at fault, and that healing is a process that is unique to each individual. We hope that this conversation will inspire listeners to extend empathy, compassion and support to survivors of sexual assault, as well as reduce the stigma and shame surrounding mental health struggles. We have created a ⁠Facebook Group community⁠ for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation !Support and Resources can be found HERE

    55 min

  8. 08/31/2024

    Depression & Anxiety with Liam Smith

    Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. Join us for an insightful conversation with Liam as he shares his personal journey with depression and anxiety. From childhood to joining the army and being medically discharged, we delve into the impact these experiences had on his mental health. We also discuss the difficulties of transitioning from military to civilian life and how Liam found purpose again as a police officer. Tune in for an honest and inspiring discussion about mental health and overcoming difficult challenges. We have created a Facebook Group community for our listeners to join and share their feedback, suggest further discussion topics, and even express interest in being a guest on future episodes. This is a space for open, respectful discussion and support around mental health and personal growth. Join us and be a part of the conversation!

    47 min

  9. 08/27/2021

    How to Seek Help

    MHA64 and Toad counselling collaborate again to discuss a where to get help when you discover you need it. It can be a confusing area and not everyone is aware of where to go to. A short quick fire episode but very informative.    www.toadcounselling.co.uk You can join the Mental Health Anonymous Facebook Group Community here - www.mental-health-anonymous.co.uk #mentalhealth #mentalhealthanonymous #life #recaliberate #loveyourself #motivate #adaptandovercome #takecontrol #yourenotalone #neveralone

    16 min

  10. 07/29/2021

    Relationships & Communication

    This episode is around communication in a relationship and how it can be maintained and what happens when it starts to degrade/get less and less.

    3 min
  11. An introduction to postnatal depression

    07/29/2021

    An introduction to postnatal depression

    This episode was in fact the first one Ian and I did together and I have uploaded t as episode 2 due to the poor sound quality when I spoke. The episode is around a small Q&A over postnatal depression and understanding a bit about it, what to look out for and how common it can be.

    18 min
  12. Mental Health Anonymous Facebook Group Support Community

    07/15/2021

    Mental Health Anonymous Facebook Group Support Community

    I have been getting involved in a new Facebook group called Mental Health Anonymous which has begun to take form and has introduced a new facility in Facebook groups where a member can post anonymously without their profile picture or other details being shared within the group, giving the poster complete anonymity and freedom to ask questions, share their story and seek support, advice and or guidance from other members that may be going through something similar.  This episode introduces me (Tony) talking with the creator of the group (Ian Henderson) about what I do, how the group runs and what we will be talking about, bringing to the group and how everything works. You are welcome to like the Facebook Page and join the Group, and please share and invite anyone you know that may also benefit from this growing community.

    18 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Our podcast looks to challenge the stigma around therapy and explore how it can help anyone dealing with life issues such as identity, career, relationships, and more. We share personal stories and highlight the importance of empathy in therapy. Join us in promoting a more understanding society around mental health.

Information