Mastering Therapy

Have you ever wondered how therapy might change if you included the body’s energy systems, not just thoughts and feelings?

This episode features clinical psychologist Dr Coral Westaway, who brings her training in energy psychotherapy to show how tapping, chakras, and meridians can be used safely alongside models like EMDR and IFS. The discussion covers how clinicians can use standardised energy psychology techniques in practice, how to explain them to clients, and why they can feel both gentle and powerful when working with trauma.

The conversation also includes a live demonstration of EFT (Emotional freedom technique). They talk about the role of blocked energy, what happens when feelings move or change location, and how therapists can use these tools for their own boundaries as well as with clients.

Highlights include:

03:00 What is energy psychology and how does it work?

08:00 Coral’s personal journey into this way of working

12:30 Combining energy psychology with EMDR and IFS

19:00 Live EFT demonstration for stress and anxiety

28:00 What tapping is actually doing in the body

35:00 The evidence base and where to find research

37:30 Using energy psychology to support therapist boundaries

Guest Information

Coral Westaway is a clinical psychologist and energy psychotherapist who integrates talking therapy with energy-based techniques. She shares resources on her website and YouTube channel.

https://www.theenergypsychologist.org/

Instagram

Facebook

Youtube

Website:

Resources mentioned:

• Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP) – research and practitioner resources
• EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) – tapping protocols and training videos on YouTube
• “Ask and Receive” technique for connecting to self-leadership

** 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

*****

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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')

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. 

Have you ever wondered how to help clients safely rewrite the ending to painful memories?

This episode features clinical psychologist and trauma specialist Dr. Melissa Snaith, who shares her training in schema therapy, trauma-focused CBT, and imagery rescripting. The discussion covers how clinicians can use rescripting techniques with clients who have experienced trauma, offering simple ways to introduce, adapt, and safely practise this powerful method in different therapeutic models. The conversation covers how to help clients manage strong feelings while working with imagery, how to use grounding if sessions become too intense, and how to tailor rescripting for individual needs. Includes practical examples, a step-by-step role play, and a friendly look at when, why, and how to use rescripting in your own therapy room.

Highlights include:

03:00 What is rescripting? Key principles and how it helps with trauma

06:28 Working with clients who don’t remember clear details

12:30 Introducing rescripting and helping clients feel safe

24:00 Creative rescripting—using imagination and humour

31:54 Planning rescripting sessions and session structure

Guest Information:

Guest Info

Dr. Melissa is a clinical psychologist with specialist training in schema therapy, trauma, CBT and emotionally focused couple therapy. She trains cognitive behavioural therapists at the Charlie Waller Institute and runs her own private practice.

Links to Melissa’s site: https://www.drmelissasnaith.com/

Resources discussed

• Kerry Young’s imagery-focused training (Bespoke, BABCP)
• Remco van der Wijngaart’s schema therapy role-play videos
• Justin Haven’s Dream completion technique (YouTube)

• Ernst (2012) review across disorders
• Rescripting early memories linked to negative images in social phobia: a pilot study - PubMed

** 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')

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. 

S3E3 Burnout in therapists | with Dr Claire Plumbly

This episode unpacks the topic of burnout in therapy, featuring Dr. Natalie Stott in conversation with clinical psychologist, trauma expert, and author Claire Plumbly. Claire outlines how burnout affects therapists, why it can be tricky to spot, and what to do about it. The discussion covers key risk factors, the link between trauma and burnout, signs to watch for, how to intervene early, and practical ways to reset. Listeners will find clear ideas for preventing burnout, both for themselves and for their clients.

Highlights include:

03:00 Tops myths about burnout

07:34 The five stages of burnout and key signs to look out for

11:25 Beyond work: burnout in life, parenting and caring

15:11 Spotting subtle signs of burnout in yourself as a therapist

32:45 What can you do to support yourself before burnout hits?

Guest Info

Claire Plumbly is a clinical psychologist, EMDR consultant, and author of “Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You” (UK) / “The Trauma of Burnout” (US).

Website: drclaireplumbly.com

Get the book: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/burnout-book

Claires Youtube:

Roadmap Out of Burnout

landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/w7b3h7

Guide to Setting Boundaries

subscribepage.com/drclaireplumbly_copy2

Instagram

instagram.com/drclaireplumbly

Tiktoktiktok.com/@drclaireplumbly

Reources discussed

• Claire's book: "Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You" https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/burnout-book
• Parental Burnout Inventory (freely available online)
• OURA ring
• HeartMath (app for HRV and biofeedback)
• Compassion Focused Therapy and Chris Irons & Elaine Beaumont’s The Compassion App
• Claire’s YouTube channel and Nervous System Reset Kit
• EMDR Intensives for burnout (offered by Claire)

** 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

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. 

S3E2 A therapists guide to ADHD | Dr Michaela Thomas

In this episode of the Mastering Therapy Podcast, Dr. Natalie Stott is joined by Dr Michaela Thomas, an ADHD expert with lived experience. They discuss key aspects of ADHD, including the importance of neuroaffirmative language, the complexity of ADHD diagnoses, and practical strategies for therapists to support neurodivergent clients. Michaela shares her personal journey with ADHD, the challenges associated with masking, and the stigma around ADHD assessments. They also explore how therapists can create a safe and supportive environment for clients with ADHD, the nuances in using mindfulness and psychotherapeutic techniques, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in therapy practice.

00:37 Understanding ADHD

03:07 The Importance of Language

15:17 Types and Manifestations of ADHD

19:58 Medication and Support for ADHD

22:26 Navigating ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis

27:30 Understanding ADHD and Its Complexities

34:27 Adapting Therapeutic Approaches for ADHD

35:34 Mindfulness and ADHD: Practical Tips

39:12 Using Metaphors and Special Interests in Therapy

44:25 Resources and Final Thoughts

Guest Information:

Dr Michaela Thomas

FREE resource: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/reset

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection/#

Twitter: https://x.com/ThomasConnect

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-thomas-51b38914/

Website: The Thomas Connection www.thethomasconnection.co.uk

Burn Bright Course: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/pause-purpose-play/id1526872789

** 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- Directory for searching clinical supervision

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. 

In this first episode of Season 3, Dr. Natalie Stott dives into one of the biggest disruptors facing our profession: AI, and specifically ChatGPT.

The conversation unpacks how therapists and clients are already using AI—sometimes to surprising effectand where the fault lines lie:

• Why clients are turning to ChatGPT for emotional support outside sessions
• How therapists are experimenting with AI for supervision, content, and admin
• The blind spots of AI: emotion, nuance, nonverbal cues, and tone
• What we risk if we lean too heavily on AI—de-skilling, diluted voices, and a drift from human connection
• Key ethical and safety considerations, plus the built-in biases of AI models
• Practical ways to make AI work for you (brainstorming, admin, clinical perspectives) without handing it the steering wheel
• A live demonstration of using ChatGPT to formulate cases through IFS and CBT lenses
• How to build and tailor your own GPTs for specific tasks
• Where the future may take us,AI recognising tone, emotion, and beyond

This episode is both a warning and an invitation: AI is here, and therapy is changing. The question is how we shape it, without losing what makes therapy human.

Season Three of Mastering Therapy Sept 4th 2025

In this announcement for Season Three of Mastering Therapy, Dr. Natalie Stott reveals the new episodes set to release on September 4th. The season will explore a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR intensives, energy psychology, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Unique to this season are live demonstrations and role plays to showcase practical clinician methods. Special episodes will address the impact of AI, specifically ChatGPT, in therapy, as well as delve into topics like therapist burnout and supervising challenges. Featuring expert interviews and role plays, this season aims to enhance learning, confidence, and the application of diverse therapeutic tools.

How are you using your supervision?

This solo episode wraps up the season with Dr. Natalie Stott inviting listeners to reflect on the supervision process in their therapy practice. Dr. Stott shares personal observations, practical questions, and strategies to support therapists in making the most out of supervision, whether in private practice or employed settings. She introduces Supervisor Platform, a new tool to help UK based practitioners find the right supervisor, and encourages a thoughtful approach to supervision to nurture growth and avoid therapist drift.

Highlights include:

01:15 Why supervision choices matter and the challenge of finding the right supervisor

04:22 The importance of preparation and intentionality in supervision

09:42 Supervision contracts and ways to keep supervision relevant

14:50 Using recordings, role play, and group models in supervision

19:00 Making space for personal reflection, brave conversations, and growth in supervision

Guest Info

Dr. Natalie Stott

Clinical Psychologist, host of the Mastering Therapy podcast, and founder of Supervisor Platform (the UK’s first directory for clinical supervisors). Specialises in helping psychologists, psychotherapists, and counsellors develop their skills and confidence in client work.

Mastering Therapy podcast: www.masteringtherapy.com

Resources discussed

• Supervisor Platform (with 3 months free trial code 'masteringtherapy')
• Season 1 episode on beginning therapy sessions
• Follow updates from supervisor platform on Linkedin

** 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

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. 

Are you considering private practice?

This episode features Dr. Rosie Gilderthorp, clinical psychologist, business coach, and creator of Psychology Business School and the Business of Psychology podcast. Join Dr. Natalie Stott and Dr. Rosie as they discuss the myths and realities of moving into private practice, aimed at therapists thinking about making the leap from the NHS or an employed setting. They break down practical steps, costs to consider, networking, CPD, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you're just starting or looking to grow your practice, this episode has clear advice and tools to help.

Highlights include:

04:05 Do you really make more money in private practice?

13:44 Do you need a website or social media presence?

18:09 Finding associate opportunities and the power of networking

32:52 Funding your own CPD and practical tips

38:19 Is private practice lonely, and how can you find support?

Guest Info

Dr. Rosie Gilderthorp

Clinical psychologist, business coach, founder of Psychology Business School, and host of The Business of Psychology podcast.

Website: psychologybusinessschool.com

Social media: https://www.instagram.com/rosiegilderthorp

Free Stuff from Rosie: https://psychologybusinessschool.com/freebies/

Courses and coaching for psychologists and therapists in

independent practice https://psychologybusinessschool.com/coaching/

Resources discussed

• Business of Psychology Podcast
• Private Practice Startup Checklist (free resource from Rosie)
• UK3P Facebook group

** 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

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. 

This episode had Dr Hanne Warren of Thea psychology share her expertise on how she goes about working with people pleasing tendencies in our clients.

Listen to the full episode here:

Apple:-https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-therapy/id1773673403

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3UYgYnxF2sWOc2P6skAhwb?si=83be5e34948b42f8

Watch the episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Masteringtherapy/videos

Don’t miss updates and news, sign up to the mastering therapy email list here:

https://masteringtherapy.com/

Do you approach therapy as an expert? Do you assume a position of knowing what's going on for someone?

This episode welcomes Ged, an experienced family therapist, to discuss the balance of knowing and not knowing in therapy. Hosted by Dr. Natalie Stott, the conversation looks at how to handle uncertainty, the use of questions in systemic practice, and why sometimes “not knowing” can be as important as having the answer. The discussion gives practical examples of embedded questions, playful approaches for working with children, and how to manage stuck sessions.

Ged also introduces the concept of “1.5 order therapy” working in the grey area between being the expert and being a collaborator. Simple and practical, this episode offers tools for both family and individual therapists to help clients open up, look at problems differently, and create safety in therapy.

Highlights include:

01:35 Embedded questions and reflexive thinking

04:26 Using challenge and managing rupture in therapy

08:30 Handling “I don’t know” responses in therapy

17:52 What is 1.5 order therapy?

30:47 Themes vs. details in therapy sessions

Guest Info

Ged Smith is a senior family therapist with expertise in systemic practice and collaborative work in therapy. He is known for his practical approach and clear way of explaining the use of collaboration and curiosity in therapy sessions.

For more on Ged's work and publications: HERE

Guest Information:

Connect with Ged

** 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

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.