Self Matters

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MENTAL HEALTH
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Self Matters

The stories from the people shaping the future of mental healthcare.

OCT 16

Normalcy, Nuance & Narratives: Laura Scarrone Bonhomme on Challenging Gender, Sexual and Relationship Conformity

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells sits down with Laura Scarrone Bonhomme, a consultant clinical psychologist, to explore the evolving landscape of mental health, gender, sexual, and relationship diversity. Laura shares her journey from her upbringing in Spain to aiding earthquake survivors in Chile. The discussion traverses a variety of topics including the inherent biases in societal definitions of 'normalcy,' the complexities faced by transgender individuals and the importance of language in clinician training. They also delve into the systemic changes needed in healthcare, offering perspectives on improving global mental health by challenging traditional mental healthcare approaches. 00:08 Meet Laura Scarrone Bonhomme 01:16 Laura's Early Life and Interest in Psychology 03:30 Challenges and Learning in Chile 08:17 Transition to the UK and New Opportunities 10:03 Understanding Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity 18:25 The Importance of Labels and Language 20:57 Gender and Medicine: A Complex Relationship 28:01 Training and Bias in Therapy 31:59 Insights from the Book 37:29 Eradicating Normal

40 min
OCT 2

Research, Rehabilitation & Reform: How Professor Geraldine Akerman Helps Heal Within the Prison System

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Dr Geraldine Akerman, a consultant forensic psychologist at the Oxford Health NHS Trust, co-chair of BPS Division for Forensic Psychology and co-founder of 'Let's Talk Forensic Psychology'. Dr. Akerman shares her unique journey from growing up around a psychiatric hospital to her extensive work in forensic psychology, particularly in therapeutic prisons. She discusses the difference between forensic and clinical psychology, the evolving methods of intervention with prisoners, and the importance of holistic support for offenders. The conversation also explores the psychological well-being of prison officers and the societal implications of prison systems. 00:14 Meet Dr. Geraldine Akerman 01:00 Geraldine's Journey into Psychology 03:40 Values and Early Influences 05:39 Choosing Forensic Psychology 08:16 Forensic vs. Clinical Psychology 09:32 Working in Prisons 11:28 Therapeutic Approaches in Prisons 18:22 Challenges and Systemic Changes 24:40 Reintegration and Support Post-Prison 26:47 Geraldine's YouTube Channel 28:17 Self-Care and Coping Strategies

32 min
SEP 18

Autism, Arousal & Advocacy: Andy McDonnell on Low Arousal Approach and Neurodiversity

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Professor Andy McDonnell, a clinical psychologist, visiting professor of autism studies at Birmingham City University and Director at Studio III. Andy shares his journey into clinical psychology, his experiences with behavioural approaches, and his development of the Low Arousal Approach to managing behaviour in individuals with neurodiversity and autism. He discusses the importance of systemic thinking in mental health, the challenges of the care system, and the need to support caregivers. Andy also provides insights on how to manage stress and create effective therapeutic environments. 00:08 Meet Professor Andy McDonnell 00:49 Andy's Journey to Clinical Psychology 01:52 Early Career Challenges and Experiences 02:39 A Shift in Perspective: From Behaviorism to Humanism 05:04 The Inner Rebel: Personal Motivations and Challenges 06:58 Systemic Issues in Mental Health Care 12:01 The Low Arousal Approach Explained 14:47 Making Therapy More Effective 22:04 Therapist Well-being and Stress Management 25:42 Personal Coping Mechanisms and Hobbies

31 min
AUG 29

Impact, Identity & Intersectionality: Vanessa Boachie on Inclusive Mental Health

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Vanessa Boachie, a CBT clinician and Founder/CEO dedicated to advancing mental health. Vanessa shares her journey from a diverse upbringing in Newham to becoming a therapist and advocate for mental health literacy. She discusses founding InsideOut Wellbeing, an organisation that focuses on culturally informed mental health support and education. Vanessa emphasises the importance of cultural humility and intersectionality in mental health, her personal strategies for self-care, and her vision for extensive mental health education. 00:06 Meet Vanessa Boachie: CBT Clinician and Founder 00:57 Vanessa's Early Life and Inspirations 02:28 Journey into Psychology and Mental Health 06:45 Founding Inside Out Wellbeing 08:03 The Importance of Mental Health Literacy 08:59 Adapting to Challenges and Growing the Organisation 13:32 Intersectionality and Cultural Humility in Mental Health 24:37 Launching the Wellbeing Awards 26:56 Balancing Multiple Roles and Self-Care 29:38 Global Mental Health Education

32 min
AUG 15

Therapy, Thrillers & Teaching: Dr. Philippa East on How Literature Can Address Mental Health Stigma

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Dr. Philippa East, a clinical psychologist and award-winning author. They discuss Philippa's unique journey from studying psychology and philosophy to becoming a psychologist specialising in eating disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Philippa shares how her passion for writing evolved alongside her clinical work, leading to her success in publishing award-winning psychological thrillers. They also explore how her background in psychology influences her character development and the importance of correctly portraying mental health in literature to combat stigma. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Philippa East 00:37 Dr. Philippa's Journey into Psychology 03:39 Specializations and NHS Experience 05:08 Transition to Private Practice 08:03 Discovering The Writing Bug 11:11 Crafting Psychological Thrillers 16:28 Balancing Psychology and Writing 19:52 Impact of COVID on Mental Health Awareness 22:51 Personal Mental Health and Self-Care 25:51 Advice for Aspiring Writers 27:56 Future of Mental Health Services

32 min
JUL 31

Psychology, Parents & Play: Laura Hanks on Play Therapy and Family Systems

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Laura Hanks, a specialist in play therapy and senior lecturer at the University of South Wales. Laura shares her journey into play and filial therapy, walking us through how her early career experiences in social care and psychology shaped her career. Learn more about the principles and benefits of play therapy, its applications for children with various difficulties, and the importance of involving family systems in therapy. Laura also discusses an exciting new project that she is involved with as part of her role as a board member of Association of Child and Adolescent Mental Health (ACAMH) as well as her efforts in educating future play therapists. She advocates for more trained therapists and better support for parents and siblings of children with mental health issues. 00:00 Introduction to Self Matters Podcast 00:07 Meet Laura Hanks: Play Therapy Specialist 00:33 Laura's Journey into Play Therapy 03:55 Understanding Play Therapy 09:09 Applications and Effectiveness of Play Therapy 10:33 Outcome Measures in Play Therapy 12:23 The Role of Family 16:48 Challenges and Future of CAMHS Education 18:41 ACAMH and Disseminating Best Practices 21:41 Balancing Professional and Personal Life 22:52 Final Thoughts

27 min
JUL 17

Research, Recovery & Resilience: Dr. Dennis Ougrin on Child Psychiatry and Mental Health Interventions in UK and Ukraine

In episode four of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Dr. Dennis Ougrin, a consultant psychiatrist specialising in child and adolescent mental health. They discuss Dr. Ougrin's journey from Ukraine to becoming a prominent figure in the UK mental health field. Uncover Dr. Ougrin's journey from growing up in Ukraine during the Soviet era to his current work in the UK and learn more about the psychiatric landscape in post-Soviet states, the rise in mental health issues among youth. Dr. Ougrin also shares insights from his research and initiatives aimed at improving mental health services for children in conflict zones like Ukraine and reducing childhood suicide and self-harm globally. 00:00 Welcome to Self Matters with Charlie Wells 00:56 Meet Dr. Dennis Ougrin: A Journey from Ukraine to London 01:22 The Soviet Union's Impact on Psychiatry 01:58 From Military Aspirations to Child Psychiatry 05:57 The Crisis in Child and Adolescent Mental Health 07:34 Understanding and Preventing Youth Suicide 10:50 Innovative Approaches to Mental Health Care 20:44 Mental Health Challenges in Ukraine 26:07 The Importance of Social Connection 28:01 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

30 min
JUL 3

Movement, Mindset & Motivation: Martin Yelling's Approach to Preventive Mental Health Care for Kids

In this episode of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Martin Yelling, a renowned running coach, mental health advocate, and CEO of the charity Stormbreak. Martin shares his inspiring journey from a disadvantaged upbringing to becoming an elite athlete and mental health advocate. Discussing his experiences, he explains how running helped him manage his emotions and shaped his life. Martin also talks about founding Stormbreak, a charity focused on using movement to improve the mental health of children. With over a million 'stormbreaks' delivered, Martin highlights the importance of early intervention and the balance between digital innovation and human well-being. Listen in to learn how Martin's initiatives are creating a positive impact on mental health for both children and adults. 00:00 Introduction to Self Matters00:06 Meet Martin Yelling: Runner and Advocate01:07 Martin's Early Life and Running Journey04:09 From Athlete to Coach and Advocate10:57 The Birth of Stormbreak19:56 Stormbreak's Impact and Expansion24:24 Martin's Personal Wellbeing Strategies26:53 A Vision for the Future of Mental Health29:58 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

31 min
JUN 18

Pain, Progress & Psychedelics: Dr. Wayne Kampers on Chronic Primary Pain, Psychedelics and Mental Health

In this episode, Dr. Wayne Kampers, a consultant psychiatrist with a deep interest in pain, shares his personal journey and professional insights into chronic primary pain. He discusses his journey from suffering debilitating back pain to finding relief and developing a comprehensive pain recovery program. Dr. Kampers highlights the role of the autonomic nervous system and the importance of addressing both physical and emotional aspects of pain. He also delves into the limitations of Western medicine, the potential of integrating Eastern philosophies, and the emerging role of psychedelics in psychiatry. The conversation also delves into the importance of self-care, curiosity in medical practice, and a holistic approach. 00:00 Introduction to Self Matters Podcast 00:32 Dr. Kampers' Journey into Psychiatry 01:02 The Struggle with Chronic Pain 04:59 Discovering the Root Cause of Pain 06:52 Understanding Pain and the Nervous System 09:34 Charlie's Personal Pain Experience 14:54 Approaching Pain in the Clinic 19:51 The Future of Psychiatry: Psychedelics and New Therapies 23:58 Dr. Kampers' Self-Care Routine 25:15 Improving the Mental Healthcare System 27:20 Closing Remarks and Farewell

28 min
JUN 5

Medicine, Music & The Mind: The Unconventional Journey of Consultant Liaison Neuropsychiatrist Dr. Sotiris Posporelis

In our inaugural episode of "Self Matters," we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Sotiris Posporelis. As a liaison neuropsychiatrist at the Maudsley in London, Dr. Pospo has been at the forefront of mental healthcare for decades. He shared with us how his childhood in Greece and his initial fascination with becoming a doctor were instrumental in paving his career path. He expressed his awe at how one cubic millimetre of the brain is a chaotic yet beautiful mystery, emphasising how far we are from fully understanding it. Dr. Pospo’s passion extends beyond clinical practice to teaching and sharing knowledge. He wants to do more than just educate; but foster interdisciplinary collaboration among mental healthcare professionals worldwide, transcending cultural and systemic differences. When asked how he would improve mental health care in the UK, Dr. Pospo emphasised the need for clinician-led systems. He believes that giving power back to clinicians who see patients daily could help mend the fragmented, overly complex healthcare systems in the UK. On a global scale, Dr. Pospo acknowledges the vast inequalities in mental health care but remains hopeful. 00:00 Introduction to Self Matters Podcast 00:48 Dr. Sotiris Posporelis: Journey to Neuropsychiatry 04:26 The Fascination with the Human Brain 06:56 The Impact of a Life-Altering Accident 09:22 Innovations in Psychiatry and Teaching10:38 Bridging Clinical and Academic Worlds12:20 Innovations in Grand Rounds 17:40 Balancing a Multifaceted Life 20:36 Challenges and Future of Mental Health Care Systems 26:56 Global Perspective on Mental Health 29:19 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

31 min

10 Episodes

The stories from the people shaping the future of mental healthcare.

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