Mental Work

Initially overwhelmed by the severest phase of burnout, in this Part 2 episode Matthew discusses his journey of self-reflection, acceptance, and gradual recovery. Bron and Matt delve into the stages of burnout, and the transformational shift Matthew undertook to cope and regain his sense of self. We again thank Matthew for his courage and vulnerability during this episode, and we hope this episode resonates with listeners 💖

This is Part 2 of Matthew's journey through burnout. If you haven't listened to Part 1, I HIGHLY recommend listening to it by scrolling back through your podcast feed (it's the previous episode)!

If you are experiencing burnout, we encourage you to reach out for support from BeyondBlue, a trusted supervisor, or therapist. 

Guest: Matthew Jackson, Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply personal episode, Matthew shares his experience of hitting the depths of burnout and making the difficult decision to leave his career as a therapist. We discuss the warning signs of burnout, the importance of recognising when therapy work no longer aligns with you, and the courage it takes to step into the unknown. We also explore the stigma surrounding career changes in psychology and how to navigate the uncertainty of forging a new path.

A huge thank you to Matthew for his honesty and vulnerability 💖—burnout is often discussed in theory, but we rarely hear from those in the thick of it. We're so grateful for your insights and hope this conversation resonates with listeners.

If you are experiencing burnout, we encourage you to reach out for support from BeyondBlue, a trusted supervisor, or therapist. 

Guest: Matthew Jackson, Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor

LINKS

• Enjoyed this episode? You might like Matthew's previous episodes on What Jobs Can I Get in Psychology?, How to Not do Therapy-Lite with Partners and Friends, How to Really Process What Clients Share With Us, and his Listener Story on Being a Queer Therapist and the Importance of Authenticity
• 'Am I Burnt Out?' Take the Professional Quality of Life self-test on NovoPsych

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Karen Knight and Courtney McKee, two experienced psychologists with lived experience of blindness. We dive into 👉 their personal journey with psychology, including their passions, the challenges, and the opportunities for psychologists living with disability 👉🏽 accessibility, technology, and advocacy 👉🏿 the strengths and unique perspectives they bring to their work. The episode offers valuable advice for aspiring and early career mental health workers living with disability and emphasises the importance of self-care, adaptability, and community. This is DEFINITELY a Top 10 episode for me -- I thought it was excellent 🤩. Thanks Karen and Courtney, and a big thanks to listener Sarah for requesting the topic!

Guest: Courtney McKee (Psychologist, Allied Health Team Leader) and Karen Knight (Psychologist, Board Director, Disability Advocate)

LINKS

• Loved this episode? You might like to listen to similar episodes where we've talked about disability, including Insights from an NDIS Participant (with Cameron Milkins), Working with a Visible Health Condition (with Kaedee Abel), and Working Effectively in the NDIS (with Katherine Elliston)
• "I'm not your inspiration, thank you very much" - fantastic TED talk by Stella Young

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron chats with Georgina about her journey of gaining her psychologist registration in Australia before moving to the UK. We chat about the differences between healthcare systems in Aus and the UK, the challenges and rewards of working internationally, managing imposter syndrome, and the benefits of diverse career experiences. This was a fantastic chat which I think our early-career listeners will love, thanks so much Georgina!! 😊🥰

Guest: Georgina Lennard, Clinical Psychologist

LINKS

• Learn more about working overseas as a psychologist on Georgina's Instagram @theoverseaspsychologist
• UK/Overseas Psychologists in Australia Facebook group

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and Danielle dive into animal assisted therapy! Danielle tells us how animals, especially dogs, can be integrated into therapy to support psychological treatment. Danielle shares her journey into animal assisted therapy, the science behind it, and its benefits for both children and adults, especially those with trauma histories. We also cover practical aspects of implementing animal assisted therapy, training requirements, and the importance of self-care in the profession.

Guest: Danielle Graber, Clinical Psychologist, Director of 12 Points Psychology and Animal-Assisted Therapist

LINKS

• Therapeutic Tools of the Trade program for early-career psychologists
• Danielle's private practice, 12 Points Psychology

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As mental health workers, we are so used to giving to others that our own needs can be neglected, especially our physical health. In this episode, exercise physiologist Jamie tells us about how to keep physically healthy, including 👉 myths around 'correct' posture 👉🏿 the role of incidental exercise 👉🏽 integrating movement into a busy workday 👉🏼 and BONUS! Jamie chats about the positives and challenges of running a psychology practice from a non-psychologist's perspective. Thanks so much for this informative chat, Jamie, I learned a lot and my back is happier for it!

Guest: Jamie Hart, Exercise Physiologist and Business Development Manager at Succoris Psychology

LINKS

• Evidence-based physical activity resources managed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• Enjoyed this episode? You might like our previous episodes with Dr Catherine Hart here!

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and Sam chat about how to work well with clients who come to therapy with religious trauma. They chat about 👉🏽 Sam's experience and passion for this area 👉 Therapeutic approaches for religious trauma 👉🏿 Balancing respecting clients' beliefs and addressing harm 👉🏾 Misconceptions and biases therapists may have 👉🏻 supporting LGBTQIA+ people. This was a deeply engaging chat -- I learned SO much, thank you Sam! 🥰

Guest: Samantha Sellers, Therapist and Clinical Supervisor at Anchored Counselling Services

LINKS

• Keen to learn more? Sam has two online courses about religious trauma: Understanding Religious Trauma and Religious Trauma & the LGBTQIA+ Community

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and Shane (Community Psychologist) dive into Community Psychology! We talk about 👉🏽 the role and functions of community psychologists 👉🏻 the discipline's focus on addressing societal and systemic issues 👉 Shane's personal journey and experiences within the profession 👉🏿 the decreasing number of community psychologists in Australia 👉🏾 the integration of political and social advocacy within psychological practice. LOVE love loved this chat, thank you Shane!

Guest: Shane Puxley, Community Psychologist

LINKS

• Professor Isaac Prilleltensky who writes a lot about Community Psychology
• The Community Tool Box - a free, online resource for those working to build healthier communities and bring about social change. Includes a Justice Action Toolkit and a Database of Best Practices - so cool!
• Want to Believe in Yourself? 'Mattering' is Key by Gail Cornwall (Paywalled New York Times article)

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and James talk about organisational psychology! We cover how org psychs apply psychological principles in the workplace, the differences between org psychs and HR managers, and what jobs are available in org psych. We also touch on portfolio careers, psychosocial hazards, and how to get involved in org psych. Thanks for the very interesting insight into this fascinating field, James!

Guest: James Cowan, Organisational Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor

LINKS

• National Career Development Association (Australia)

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writing a good case report is an essential skill for mental health workers but it's a hard one to master! Annie Slater has seen so many case reports in her role as Director of the Provisional Psychologist Network and knows exactly what makes a great case report. In this ep, she describes the common mistakes she sees, essential tips, resources for improving the process, and how to make the task more manageable. If you're undertaking a placement or supervised practice where you need to write case reports, you'll love Annie's tips! 😊🙌

Guest: Annie Slater, Psychologist and Director at Annie Slater Psychology

LINKS

• Supervision, professional development and support for provisional psychologists through the Provisional Psychologist Network
• Annie's Facebook group for provisional psychologists
• Annie's case report training
• Book: Treatment Plans & Interventions for Depression & Anxiety Disorders by Robert Leahy
• Book: Clinical Psychology for Trainees by Page, Stritzke & Evoy
• Access the DSM-5-TR for free with an AAPi membership - Join here

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

Support the show by buying me a virtual coffee ☕🍵

Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram or email [email protected]

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.