Self Matters

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

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

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

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

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