Mastering Therapy

S4E9 Changing emotion with emotion in EFT | Dr Anna Oldershaw

EPISODE SUMMARY

Most therapists are comfortable talking about emotions, but Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) takes things several steps further. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Stott sits down with Dr Anna Oldershaw, consultant clinical psychologist and EFT trainer, to demystify the nuts, bolts, and chairs of EFT. They explore why “changing emotion with emotion” is central, the art of letting clients discover their own “Rome”, and why the therapy is more than a rebranding of common practice. Whether you’re curious about chairwork, anxious about secondary anger, or wondering how EFT fits in alongside Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), you’ll leave with something practical for your next session.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:03 What is Emotion Focused Therapy, and why does it matter?
• 02:20 How Dr. Anna Oldershaw stumbled upon EFT (and SPEAKS therapy for anorexia)
• 05:39 Can you integrate EFT with schema therapy or ACT?
• 07:35 Chairwork: making internal parts less terrifying
• 09:38 EFT’s view on emotions: adaptive, maladaptive, and what’s really going on when clients say they’re “just angry”
• 16:54 Working with clients’ own process, not parachuting in with answers
• 26:31 The nuts and bolts of running a chair task (and what to do if things go off piste)
• 31:19 What can clients do between sessions to keep the work alive?
• 45:24 Interested in training in EFT? How to start

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Use “chairwork” to facilitate clients’ dialogues with critical or protective parts—let them find their own insights, not yours.

• Distinguish between primary adaptive emotions (helpful, situation-relevant), primary maladaptive emotions (old wounds replaying), and secondary emotions (reactions to other feelings). Don’t take clients’ first answers at face value.

• When chairwork risks a shouting match between parts, focus on building assertiveness in the “experiencing” chair and softening of the critic—don’t force a negotiation.

• Listen for process “markers” as sessions begin to decide which EFT task (chair, focusing, imagery) will actually fit.

• To boost client awareness between sessions, ask them to notice and name when certain inner critics or feelings emerge—no need to “fix”, just notice.

• Be careful about overlaying your own formulation. Use conjecture gently, reflect back, and let the client’s experience lead.

• If a client experiences blocks (i.e., “I can’t go there”), work with the blocking part directly—don’t bulldoze through.

GUEST

Dr Anna Oldershaw

Consultant clinical psychologist, internationally accredited EFT trainer and supervisor, and director of the Emotion Focused Therapy Institute. Specialises in eating disorders and developed the SPEAKS therapy approach for anorexia.

RESOURCES

FREE EFT training- apply HERE

Emotion Speaks

Overview of Emotion-Focused Therapy, research, and videos

🔗 Link here

Core Skills Training (Level 1)

Four-day EFT training focused on core tasks you can use immediately (Next course in May 26)

🔗 Booking link

Advanced Empathic Attunement

For therapists wanting to refine moment-to-moment emotional work

🔗 Booking link

SPEAKS Therapy (Eating Disorders)

Integrates Emotion-Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy

🔗 Training link | 🔗 Book link

• Les Greenberg’s EFT videos and further resources: Emotion Focused Therapy Institute UK – Video Resource

** 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')
• To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
• For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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:

AIRNOTE | AI SCRIBE FOR THERAPISTS

AirNote is an affordable AI-powered note-taking app designed specifically for therapists in private practice.

AIRNOTE

S4E8: Beyond Diagnosis: Building Confidence in Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice | Dr Jo Mueller & Dr Lauren Breese

EPISODE SUMMARY

This episode of Mastering Therapy welcomes clinical psychologists Dr. Lauren Breese and Dr. Jo Mueller of the neurodiversity practice (alongside Dr Sibohan Higgins) for a sharp, practical exploration of adult autism and neurodivergent parenting. They discuss the misconceptions that trip up therapists, why autism isn’t synonymous with mental health struggles, and the surprisingly liberating power of discussing neurodivergence early.

There’s a clear rundown of adapting therapy for autistic adults—including navigating unpredictable sessions, sensory overwhelm, and boundaries that actually protect your client’s (and your own) battery. Whether you’re staring at daunting NHS assessment paperwork or questioning how direct to be, this episode is packed with straightforward guidance and a few witty asides.

02:24 Autism Misconceptions

05:07 Trauma and Autism

06:26 Raising Neurodiversity

10:05 Neuroaffirming Framing

15:21 Adapting Therapy

21:58 Assessment Paperwork

26:50 Late Diagnosis Triggers

29:43 Parenting Pressure Points

32:06 Protect Your Battery

36:15 Resources and Wrap Up

Guest Information:

Dr. Lauren Breese and Dr. Jo Mueller are clinical psychologists and co-founders of The Neurodiversity Practice. They work with neurodivergent people and their families, offering therapy, consultancy, and training. Their work includes an online community for neurodivergent parents and resources for clinicians.

Website: The Neurodiversity Practice

Resources discussed

Training for practitioners

• The Neurodivergent Parent Space (support community run by the guests)
• Autistic Girls Network website
• Jo's Blog
• The Hidden 20% Podcast
• The Neurodivergent Woman Podcast
• Deborah Kingston’s EMDR training for neurodivergent presentations

https://www.theneurodiversitypractice.com/

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 'WELCOME3')
• To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
• For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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:

Guide

S4E7: Online Therapy Across Borders: Risk, Cover, Compliance | Dr Tess Browne

EPISODE SUMMARY

What happens when your therapy room has no borders—literally? In this episode, Dr. Natalie Stott and Dr Tess Browne tackle the practical realities of working with clients overseas, from risk management to insurance headaches. If you’ve debated taking your private practice global, wondered about how to safeguard clients abroad, or been baffled by tax as a travelling clinician, this one’s for you. The discussion steers clear of legal jargon, focusing instead on the right questions to ask your insurer, accountant, and yourself. There's also a free downloadable with all questions you need to be asking so scroll down to get it

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:48 The real-world challenges of working with clients abroad
• 02:00 How Dr Tess Browne built her global practice online
• 04:12 What makes risk manageable (and when it gets tricky)
• 08:04 Screening and safeguarding clients across borders
• 15:08 Insurance, licensing, and crucial questions for your provider
• 27:07 Navigating tax if you work overseas or with international clients
• 33:21 Networks, support, and the reality of ongoing global therapy work

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Always clarify both your insurance’s worldwide coverage and its legal jurisdiction—“worldwide” isn’t always what it seems.
• Add a clause to terms and conditions about being UK-based, subject to UK law, and the limits of confidentiality (especially when escalating risk in another country).
• When onboarding clients abroad, collect in-country emergency contacts and ensure the client’s consent to use them.
• Make sure both you and the client know the emergency services number in their country—expats often don’t.
• State your title clearly and honestly (e.g., UK-registered clinical psychologist), especially in countries with protected titles or different regulations.
• Contact local psychological societies before working with clients in unfamiliar countries—responses are often more helpful than expected.
• Before changing countries or tax residency, speak to an accountant who understands cross-border income and double taxation.

RESOURCES

• Mastering Therapy website and mailing list: masteringtherapy.com
• UK Digital Nomad Psychologists Facebook group: [LINK]
• Supervisor Platform: [LINK]
• Statutory Residence Test info (HMRC): [LINK]

Guest Information:

GUEST

Dr Tess Browne is a UK-trained clinical psychologist with NHS experience who spent 7 years practising in Hong Kong and now runs a thriving global online practice. Her main clients are often high-achieving expats and perinatal women, making her a pragmatic guide on the ins and outs of overseas therapy.

Social media: @drtessbrowne (on IG & LinkedIn)

Website: www.drtessbrowne.com

Resources mentioned:

FREE RESOURCE- Downloadable Overseas toolkit- All the questions you need to ask the relevant people in one neat document

** 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')
• To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
• For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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.

S4E6: The Power of Empathic Confrontation and Mode Mapping: Schema Therapy | Dr Jo White

Ever had a client say, “I know it’s not logical, but I just feel… defective”?

This episode of Mastering Therapy unpacks schema therapy with ISST-certified schema therapist and supervisor Dr Jo White. Hosts Dr Natalie Stott and Jo tackle the origins of schema therapy, why Jeff Young developed it when CBT wasn’t cutting the mustard, and what exactly a “schema” is. Expect practical metaphors, mode maps, and hear how limited reparenting can shift entrenched patterns. From how schemas form in childhood, to the therapist’s role with healthy adult mode, this episode is full of clinical pearls for anyone curious about alternative models or thinking beyond core beliefs. There’s even a nod to chairwork, imagery rescripting, and handling those confrontational moments in therapy.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:00 What is schema therapy and why did it emerge?

• 04:22 How to explain a schema to clients (metaphors that actually work)

• 09:48 Introducing “modes”—and why behaviours matter

• 17:58 Limited reparenting: what it is and how boundaries play a role

• 21:59 Empathic confrontation: cold tap, hot tap, and getting the balance right

• 28:29 Schema therapy in brief: is short-term work possible?

• 31:15 Mapping out modes and schemas with clients

• 33:53 Experiential techniques: chairwork, imagery, and mode mapping

• 40:11 Therapist schemas and supervision: you’re in it too

• 45:39 Training routes and schema therapy resources

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Use “schema glasses” as a client-friendly metaphor—schemas filter every situation.

• Limited reparenting is in-session modelling of healthy adult responses; boundaries are key.

• Modes describe how schemas play out: learn to identify vulnerable child, coping, critic and healthy modes.

• Empathic confrontation helps clients change entrenched patterns—adjust the “hot and cold” for effectiveness.

• Always map modes and schemas collaboratively—help clients spot their emotional triggers and bodily responses.

• Imagery rescripting can reduce schema sensitivity; the therapist actively steps in to rewrite old memories.

• Long-term schema therapy is ideal, but elements can be adapted for briefer interventions (with caution).

Guest Information: Dr Jo White

ISST-certified schema therapist, trainer, and supervisor. Experienced in integrating schema therapy into clinical practice and supervision. Clear, practical approach to teaching therapists.

Website: https://www.schematherapyworks.co.uk/dr-jo-white

Resources mentioned:

• BESQ - Brief Early Schema Questionnaire
• Schema youtube
• Schema blog

** 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.

1. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3')
2. To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
3. For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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.

What happens when you blend the structured world of EMDR with the nuanced, parts-based approach of IFS?

Dr. Natalie Stott sits down with David Polidi—EMDR therapist and “IFS guru” (his clients’ words, not his)—to get practical about integrating Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing in complex trauma work. They tackle everything from how to honour protectors (without bulldozing them) to what actually happens in this mysterious “Phase 2.5,” and how to avoid getting tangled in your own parts as a therapist. Plus, the age-old questions: Do you really need bilateral stimulation? And can you use a parts lens without an IFS certificate? No hype, just candour, solid tips, and welcome reassurance for therapists at every stage.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:00 Introduction and purpose of blending IFS and EMDR

• 02:41 The “Syzygy model” and holding both maps in session

• 06:24 EMDR’s Phase 2.5/Discovery Phase—what is it, why is it useful?

• 14:43 What to do when protectors hijack reprocessing work

• 24:24 When negotiations with parts fail—what next?

• 27:13 Why blend models at all? And do you have to pick sides?

• 33:15 What happens between sessions? Homework for clients (and therapists)

• 36:42 Getting started: books, trainings, and the value of consultation

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Always check in with every part—genuine consent trumps protocol when reprocessing trauma memories.

• Use “Phase 2.5” (Discovery Phase) with blended protectors—pause, get curious, and only proceed when all parts are on board.

• The “fire drill” is a quick, practical tool: name your own therapist parts at the start of sessions and gently ask them to step aside.

• Don't bulldoze protectors—forced reprocessing often brings backlash and, at best, patchy results.

• EMDR's structure maps well onto IFS’s parts work, but the pace needs to match your client’s system—not your agenda.

• It’s OK to use parts language without formal IFS training, as long as you’re respectful, collaborative, and guided by your client’s experience.

• Encourage clients to build ongoing relationships with their parts between sessions (quick daily check-ins can genuinely help).

RESOURCES

S4E5: Stop processing parts without mapping their purpose first (IFS & EMDR)| Dr David Polidi

Guest Information: David Polidi is a practising EMDR therapist known for integrating IFS into trauma work. He recently edited a collaborative book on IFS-informed EMDR, gathering voices from trainers, teachers, and therapists innovating at the frontier of blended models.

Social media:

Website:

Resources mentioned:

• IFS Training Programs | IFS Institute
• Intro to IFS informed EMDR – EMDR Insight
• IFS Informed EMDR Training Program — Syzygy Institute
• David's Book

** 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.

1. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3')
2. To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
3. For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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:

Guide

S4E4: Therapist Drift. Skill or laziness? | Dr Gracie Mclaven

EPISODE SUMMARY

Is “therapist drift” a mark of incompetence, or creative clinical freedom? In this episode, Dr. Gracie McLaven sits down with Dr. Natalie Stott to deconstruct the practical realities of blending therapy models, from DDP to EMDR and ACT, in a world obsessed with protocols and evidence bases.

The conversation sidesteps the usual platitudes, digging into the messy, human reality of clinical practice, where intuition meets integration and sometimes, the best work happens outside the boxes.

Expect a wry look at the NHS, a nod to the limits of randomised controlled trials, and some honest discussion about how to find your therapeutic style amid ever-mounting pressures on frontline services.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Using multiple therapy models isn’t always “drift”—sometimes, it’s exactly what complex cases require.
2. The relationship between therapist and client can be more important than rigid protocol adherence.
3. Formulating cases can be fluid—messy minds need not stick to neatly drawn CBT diagrams.
4. Short-term models like CBT aren’t always containing enough for intense trauma work.
5. There are risks in assuming the evidence base is neutral; cultural bias and financial motivations play a role.
6. Feedback cycles with clients—check-ins, reviews, testimonials—are key to knowing whether you’re actually helping.
7. Regular, varied supervision is crucial for independent or integrative practitioners.

Guest Information:

Dr. Gracie McLaven

Clinical psychologist in private practice, with a wide-ranging background in attachment, trauma, and integrative work. Known for her reflective, relationship-focused approach to therapy and strong views on what makes therapy effective.

Social media:

Website: https://brainbodywealth.co.uk/

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.

1. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3')
2. To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
3. For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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.

S4E3: Clinical Supervision PART 2: The Bits Nobody Taught You | Dr Paul Grantham

EPISODE SUMMARY

What really makes supervision high quality, and why do most of us avoid thinking about it until there’s a complaint on the horizon? In this episode, Dr. Natalie Stott and Dr Paul Grantham wade into the murky waters of supervision for therapists—shining a light on everything from note-taking and record keeping to supervision of supervision (yes, it’s a thing). Listen in as they pick apart the shoulds, coulds, and musts of being a supervisor, who should keep the notes, what to do when things go off-piste, and how private practice is a whole different kettle of fish. Plenty here for supervisors and supervisees alike, plus a nod to models like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for good measure.

TIMESTAMPS

1. 00:00:02 – Why supervision matters (and what nobody tells you)
2. 00:01:57 – How to become a supervisor, and does accreditation matter?
3. 00:04:10 – Bridging theory and practice: why ongoing support trumps a certificate
4. 00:05:42 – Supervision of supervisors: why “peer groups” aren’t just for show
5. 00:10:48 – How supervisors can (accidentally) do real harm
6. 00:14:58 – Supervision records and notes: who keeps them, who gets to see them, and why it matters
7. 00:20:12 – How much experience do you really need before supervising others?
8. 00:23:04 – The markers of a genuinely good supervisor
9. 00:26:01 – What supervisees should do if their gut says “something’s not right”
10. 00:29:45 – Training, resources, and the elusive ‘perfect supervisor’

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Choose supervision courses that are third-party accredited if you want real quality control—anyone can call themselves a supervisor, but not all courses are equal.

• Peer supervision groups are helpful, but having an external, experienced facilitator can turn “that’s interesting…” into real professional growth.

• Private practice supervisors risk creating echo chambers—seek out challenge, not just comfort.

• Keep supervision records: treat them like client notes, ensure they’re agreed upon by both supervisor and supervisee, and know under what conditions they might be accessed.

• Good contracts should specify who holds the records, when they can be released, and include a process for conflict (consider a “grandparent” supervisor).

• For ethical dilemmas and fitness-to-practice queries, clear note-keeping protects everyone—don’t rely on memory when the court calls.

• Supervision of supervision prevents stagnation and isolation and helps supervisors tackle challenges they missed in training.

GUEST

Dr Paul Grantham

A seasoned psychologist and clinical supervisor who runs one of the few independent, BPS-accredited supervision training courses. Draws on decades of experience with clinical supervision in both organisational and private practice settings.

RESOURCES

• SDS Seminars: info and supervision courses – [LINK]

• David Milne’s book: Evidence-Based Clinical Supervision – [LINK]

CALL TO ACTION

Subscribe to the podcast and join the mailing list for more CPD essentials, supervision tips, and frank discussion—minus the fluff.

DISCLAIMER

For education only. Not a substitute for professional supervision or clinical judgement.

Guest Information:

Social media:

Website:

Resources mentioned:

• Free Editable Supervision Contract
• Evidence-Based Clinical Supervision: Principles and Practice | Wiley
• SDS Seminars: info and supervision courses –

** 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.

1. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3')
2. To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
3. For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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:

Supervision Contract download

FREE Supervision Contract- Download yours at

Guide

S4E2: What's the point in Clinical Supervision Part 1: Dr Paul Grantham

Supervision in therapy: necessary evil or vital lifeline? This episode of Mastering Therapy sees Dr. Natalie Stott joined by Dr Paul Grantham, founder of SDS Seminars, to dig into the messy world of supervision standards, expectations, and practicalities. Whether you’re working in private practice or deep in the NHS trenches, clarity matters—especially when every regulatory body seems to follow its own script. From navigating BPS and HCPC requirements to handling complaints (without breaking into a sweat), this is a sharp, practical guide to making supervision work for you. If you’ve ever wondered whether a WhatsApp group counts (spoiler: it doesn’t), or how to get feedback that actually helps, grab your notebook. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) may not be centre stage, but process and collaboration are—prepare for useful distinctions and a few uncomfortable truths.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. HCPC doesn’t require clinical supervision, but don’t get complacent—when complaints arise, absence of supervision looks very bad.
2. BPS and BABCP differ wildly: BABCP insists on close supervision and evidence for accreditation, while BPS offers detailed but mostly “advisory” guidance.
3. WhatsApp chats and peer chitchat do not count as proper supervision, especially when you need defensible records.
4. Contracts in supervision are more than admin—they clarify roles, expectations, and safety, and should be reviewed regularly (not just filed and forgotten).
5. Discussing mutual expectations before signing a contract prevents mismatched assumptions and hidden frustrations.
6. Supervisors should actively seek feedback, using simple, solution-focused questions (not lengthy forms), to measure usefulness and adjust approaches.
7. Power dynamics in supervision are real—addressing time, boundaries, and change needs honest discussion for effective, ethical practice.

GUEST

Dr Paul Grantham

Consultant clinical psychologist and founder of SDS Seminars, known for shaping supervision training across the UK.

Resources mentioned:

• FREE supervision contract
• Supervision Guidance – BABCP
• Supervision guidance for psychologists – page with PDF download
• Guidance for supervisees | The HCPC
• Guidance for supervisors | The HCPC

** 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.

1. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3')
2. To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
3. For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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:

Supervision Contract download

FREE Supervision Contract- Download yours at

Guide

S4E1: 6 things the best ACT therapists do differently: Dr Joe Oliver

Are you curious about what sets great ACT therapists apart?

This episode of Mastering Therapy looks at ACT with special guest Dr Joe Oliver, director of contextual consulting, a highly skilled clinical psychologist and ACT trainer. The discussion covers what experienced ACT therapists do differently, how to use perspective taking, metaphors, and present moment work well, and how to guide clients from values to real action. Listeners will get ideas on avoiding common pitfalls and practical tips to take into sessions straight away.

Highlights include:

03:52 Pivoting perspectives in ACT

10:32 Using the therapy relationship for perspective work

16:36 Crafting and using metaphors

25:45 Working with workability and when clients feel stuck

37:07 Turning values into committed action

Guest Info

Dr Joe Oliver is a clinical psychologist, ACT trainer, supervisor, and researcher, known for making ACT’s key ideas clear and useful in day-to-day therapy. He is founder of Contextual Consulting and has written several ACT books for therapists.

Website: Contextual Consulting

Instagram: Contextual Consulting (search on Instagram for up-to-date resources)

Resources discussed

1. Article: Six things experienced ACT therapists do (by Joe Oliver)
2. BOOK: 100 Key Points and Techniques in Act by Joe Oliver & Richard Bennett (2nd Edition)
3. Free one-hour intro to ACT (available at Contextual Consulting website)
4. ACT Pathway – longer-form ACT training and supervision (details on the Contextual Consulting website)

This episode is perfect for therapists wanting practical ACT skills, fresh ways to work with metaphors, and new strategies to go beyond the basics with clients.

Guest Information:

Dr Joe Oliver

Social media: https://www.instagram.com/contextualconsulting/?hl=en

Website: https://contextualconsulting.co.uk/

** 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.

1. Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'WELCOME3')
2. To search for a new supervisor visit HERE
3. For free resources on supervision visit HERE

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.

Season 4 coming on Thursday 12th Feb 2026

** 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.

1. 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.