This Trusted Place with John-Paul Davies: Mental Health, Therapy & Becoming a Therapist

In this episode, I welcome Mark Cusack from  @notdefining an author, lecturer, content creator, and coach specialising in supporting individuals with complex, fluid, or undefined orientations and genders. Mark shares insights from his personal experiences and professional expertise, focusing on bisexuality and the broader spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identity.

1. Introduction to Mark:
- Mark's background as an author and content creator.
- His work with  @notdefining a platform for educational content on sexuality and gender diversity

2. Mark's Personal Journey:
- Growing up with diverse attractions and the struggle with identity in a binary world  
- The motivation behind starting his YouTube channel and writing his book "Fluid"

3. Understanding Bisexuality:
- Common misconceptions about bisexuality and the importance of visibility
- The challenges faced by bisexual individuals in relationships and society

4. Community and Support:
- The role of online platforms like YouTube in providing community and support
- Recommendations for finding bisexual communities and resources

5. The Five Things all Bisexual People should know: 
- It's way more common than you think
- Can be very vulnerable to mental health issues / how to heal
- It often changes and shifts
- There are many different types of bi+
- Absolutely "queer enough"

6. Mark's Advice and Insights:
   - Encouragement to embrace one's identity and live authentically
   - The significance of self-acceptance and advocating for oneself

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

More YouTube videos just like this:
https://youtu.be/baqmVJtuCV0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olW2-s3IM6s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-EJgAoHess
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH7w0l3hFPQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5YIsXwH2mM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QyFTqHQpjg

Mark’s book and YouTube links below:

https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/mark-cusack/fluid/9781805013686/
https://www.youtube.com/@notdefining

My podcast with the audio of this video is at: https//www.buzzsprout.com/2067601

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include "The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

Therapy's FUTURE?: Exploring the Integration of Neuroscience and AI in Therapy Training and Therapy (Subscriber's Question)

Here is the Subscriber's question: 'Moving over from an industry that has become dominated by AI (and having a lot of working years left), one of my concerns is for longevity of a profession. A friend of mine who recently finished a therapy adjacent Masters thinks that as mental health becomes increasingly integrated into the health system, less 'scientific' qualifications like a Diploma may hold less long-term value in terms of professional recognition or legal right to practice. Would you be able to offer your view on the topic (or dismiss it!), or point me towards any sources that offer some insight before I make my choice of training?'

In this episode, I addresses a subscriber's question about the future of the therapy profession and therapy training, focusing on the integration of neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI). I explore how these fields are influencing training and practice in therapy, and the potential impact on the profession over the next 10 to 15 years.

1. Neuroscience in Therapy Training and Therapy:

   - The increasing integration of mental health into the health system in the UK.
   - The role of neuroscience concepts such as the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, windows of tolerance, and polyvagal theory in trauma treatment and therapy training
   - The importance of combining scientific and symbolic approaches in therapy, allowing for a more holistic understanding of clients

2. Artificial Intelligence in Therapy:

   - The use of AI tools like ChatGPT in providing support between therapy sessions, offering quick, balanced cognitive assessments
   - The potential benefits and limitations of AI in therapy, including its inability to replace the empathetic and relational aspects of human therapists. Looking at issues including care, empathy and attunement, challenge, imperfection, embodiment and intuition.

3. The Future of Therapy Training:

   - The evolving nature of therapy diplomas and the integration of neuroscience into training programmes
   - The potential for therapy to become a more regulated profession, with a focus on maintaining the relational aspects of therapy alongside scientific advancements and the importance of integrating both scientific and relational approaches in therapy to address the diverse needs of clients.

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: "The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

In this really insightful and hopefully helpful podcast, I interview Karl Melvin, a therapist with over 13 years of experience in the area of navigating family estrangement. Karl defines estrangement as creating distance between family members, which can vary in degree and form, which can be emotional, geographical, or communicative. The discussion highlights the challenges and dynamics involved in estrangement, emphasising its complexity and the continuum from complete disconnection to minimal contact.

Karl shares some therapeutic approaches for dealing with estrangement, focusing on individual circumstances and the importance of understanding family dynamics. He discusses the role of communication in reconnection, suggesting the use of different mediums like video and voice notes, and stresses the importance of timing and changing circumstances.

The conversation also covers emotional and practical support strategies, including some from Karl's book, "Navigating Family Estrangement," offering insights and tools for understanding and managing this difficult and complex issue. These include Karl's "estrangement toolbox," which offers tools including emotional validation and practical planning for family events. 

Karl encourages resilience and maintaining hope, advising viewers not to give up on themselves despite the difficulties they face and the challenges of estrangement. As ever, I hope it's helpful.

Karl’s Socials: 

Website: https://karlmelvin.com 

Email: [email protected]  

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-melvin- psychotherapist-ma-miacp-2a29679/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karl.melvin/  

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/ToxicEscape/  

ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Karl-Melvin

Thank you for listening to this podcast. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it and please do FOLLOW to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

My podcast with the audio of this video is at: https//www.buzzsprout.com/2067601

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

In this episode, I give some reflections on this Subscriber's Question: "Would you talk about if it makes sense to try to become a therapist if one is not healed herself, Is 'I can do this as a therapist because this helps me as a patient' realistic or delusional? Thanks!"

I talk about the complexities of being a therapist, focusing on the psychological state required to effectively support clients, revolving around the idea of whether therapists need to be fully healed themselves to offer meaningful therapy and how our personal development plays a crucial role in the therapeutic process.

Some areas I cover include:

1. The Therapist's Self as a Tool:

   - The importance of the therapist's personal development and self-awareness in creating a therapeutic relationship.
   - How the therapist's own journey and emotional regulation can influence the therapy process

2. Healing and Emotional Well-being:

   - Exploration of what it means to be "healed" and how therapists can manage their own emotional challenges while supporting clients.
   - The concept of healing as an ongoing process rather than a permanent state

3. Therapist's Emotional Regulation:

   - The role of emotional regulation in therapy and how therapists can maintain a balanced emotional state to effectively support clients.
   - Discussion on the unrealistic expectations placed on therapists to be emotionally perfect

4. Realistic vs. Delusional Expectations:

   - Addressing the question of whether it is realistic for therapists to believe that helping others can also aid in their own healing.
   - Insights into the mutual benefits of therapeutic relationships for both therapists and clients

5. Challenges and Responsibilities:

   - The challenges therapists face in managing their own emotional triggers and the responsibility to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients.
   - The importance of self-reflection and choosing the 'right' clients to work with

As ever, please do share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section!

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***Note: all therapy/counselling courses are different and it would be great to hear how yours is similar/different to Harry’s. Please do therefore feel free to comment on this below and on anything raised in the conversation generally***

Harry Japp is a trainee psychotherapist at CCPE in London, and YouTuber at https://youtube.com/@UC2H_W34ylBp3nPvv6orhG8w where he shares insights from his training journey.

In this episode, Harry and I discuss his experiences and insights gained from his foundation course psychotherapy training, including the potential costs of training. Key Points include:

- how the course includes lectures, experiential work, and personal therapy with an explanation and exploration of all these various elements, 

- the financial aspects of training, including tuition and additional costs for personal therapy and resources. The need to be aware of potential 'hidden costs' other than just the course fees, with details of these potential costs, 

-  Harry shares some experiential exercises to give an idea of what to expect of this aspect of the  course, including creating masks to symbolise persona and true self, highlighting the emotional differences when interacting as each,

- an explanation of the 'triad' work involving the roles of therapist, client, and observer that's a part of therapy training courses, 

- great advice for anyone looking to begin a therapy course, 

- Harry's personal experience of both the benefits and the challenges of undertaking a course such as this.
  
Overall, the episode provides really valuable insights into what to expect from therapy training and the  journey of self-discovery within the context of the training.

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

Other similar YouTube videos include:
Maria Parker - https://youtu.be/ajWo-N_PSRU
Lee Rasberry - https://youtu.be/04j8fVhTVTw
Richard Campbell - https://youtu.be/FuBe9lghF9w
Robert Cuming - https://youtu.be/KYaD6-ARSnA
Michael Toller - https://youtu.be/ZxDuaHRnFEY
Bob Heath - https://youtu.be/AjXbtGgTidE
Fahim Ahmed - https://youtu.be/bS05Lt2WfOg

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

This podcast features my conversation with Lindsay Percival, focusing on the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy, along with talking about Lindsay's practice as a medium. Lindsay shares her journey from journalism to therapy, emphasising her spiritual awakening through experiences with healing energy. 

Some of the many topics covered include: 

- Lindsay discusses the intersection of psychotherapy and mediumship, highlighting how her mediumship work aims to provide comfort to those grieving and to help heal relationships that may have been strained before a loved one's passing. She expresses her belief in the continuity of the soul beyond a physical end.

- Lindsay introduces her program called "Soul Power," which aims to help individuals connect with their authentic selves and personal power. She discusses the importance of understanding one's soul's yearnings and the transformative journey involved.

- We cover various therapeutic techniques used in her practice, including visualisation, creative imagination, and the development of a "Soul Care Plan" to help clients manifest their desires and needs. 

- A significant theme is the need for individuals to reconnect with themselves to gain clarity about their lives and desires. Lindsay emphasises the importance of intuition in therapy and the role of the therapist in facilitating this connection.

- The conversation touches on the importance of self-love and the ongoing journey of personal development, encouraging individuals to validate themselves and cultivate healthier relationships.

- Lindsay gives some great advice to therapists in training and also some very valuable general life advice.

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

Other similar YouTube videos include:
Maria Parker - https://youtu.be/ajWo-N_PSRU
James Hawes - https://youtu.be/7Hg_pGVP6EI
Dr Nicholas Brüss - https://youtu.be/pDAcrbcdZ0M
Philippa Smethurst - https://youtu.be/Bm_0g6hfCCs
Michael Toller - https://youtu.be/ZxDuaHRnFEY
Bob Heath - https://youtu.be/AjXbtGgTidE
Fahim Ahmed - https://youtu.be/bS05Lt2WfOg

My podcast with the audio of this video is at: https//www.buzzsprout.com/2067601

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

Full YouTube videos here:
Maria Parker - https://youtu.be/ajWo-N_PSRU
James Hawes - https://youtu.be/7Hg_pGVP6EI
Dr Nicholas Brüss - https://youtu.be/pDAcrbcdZ0M
Philippa Smethurst - https://youtu.be/Bm_0g6hfCCs
Michael Toller - https://youtu.be/ZxDuaHRnFEY
Lindsay Percival (coming 5th March)
Bob Heath - https://youtu.be/AjXbtGgTidE
Fahim Ahmed - https://youtu.be/bS05Lt2WfOg

This is a compilation of responses to the question of what's your favourite piece of life advice that I've asked experienced therapists over the course of my conversations on this channel. Some suggestions include:
 
- Self-Reliance vs. Connection: the balance between being self-sufficient and recognising the need for connection with others. 

- The importance of staying curious and open to new experiences and the significance of knowing oneself deeply.

- Finding Your Voice: the journey of finding one's voice and being our authentic true selves.

- Embracing the Moment: a powerful reminder to be present and appreciate the moment.

- Insights from Ralph Waldo Emerson about starting each day anew.

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

My podcast with the audio of this video is at: https//www.buzzsprout.com/2067601

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

In this episode, I've put together the best advice for the journey of becoming a therapist from many of the great YouTube conversations I've had. We discuss the importance of personal growth, ongoing education, and the therapeutic relationship, with my guests sharing valuable insights and advice for those considering, or starting, a career in therapy. 

Full videos here:
Michael Toller - https://youtu.be/ZxDuaHRnFEY
Lindsay Percival (coming 5th March)
Robert Cuming - https://youtu.be/KYaD6-ARSnA
Lee Rasberry - https://youtu.be/04j8fVhTVTw
Richard Nicholls - https://youtu.be/2MG1JJK_wc4
Caz Binstead - https://youtu.be/AfpcssE6df8
Richard Campbell - https://youtu.be/FuBe9lghF9w
Lou Lebentz - https://youtu.be/PXx5DQEnVJk
Bob Heath - https://youtu.be/AjXbtGgTidE
Dr Leslie Lund - https://youtu.be/8kqTXs9qRsg
Mark Brayne - https://youtu.be/UJvVz0gCKhk

Some insights include: 

- Personal Growth: Becoming a therapist is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's about personal development and understanding oneself. Continuous growth is essential throughout your career  

-  Importance of Therapy: Engaging in therapy as a client can provide invaluable insights into the therapeutic process and help aspiring therapists understand their motivations 

- Finding the Right Programme: It's important to choose a training program that resonates with you. Research different modalities and institutions to find the best fit for your personal and professional goals

- Self-Care and Burnout Prevention: Therapists should prioritise self-care to avoid burnout. Recognising personal limits and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital

- The Role of Curiosity and Courage: Successful therapists often embody curiosity and courage, allowing them to connect deeply with clients and facilitate meaningful change

- Commitment to Service: A career in therapy is a lifelong commitment to serving others, requiring dedication and a genuine desire to help

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

My podcast with the audio of this video is at: https//www.buzzsprout.com/2067601

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of psychedelic assisted therapy, discussing various substances such as ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin. Nick shares personal experiences and insights on how these medicines can facilitate profound healing and self-discovery, particularly when combined with Internal Family Systems ('IFS'). We explore the neurological effects of these substances, the importance of integration sessions, and the therapeutic processes involved in working with different parts of the self.

Key Topics Discussed:

- Psychedelic Substances: an overview of ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin and the differences between synthetic and naturally occurring psychedelics.

- Therapeutic Benefits: How psychedelics can help reduce fear and enhance trust in relationships and the role of these substances in revealing deeper aspects of the self.

- Safety and Guidance: The significance of having a therapist or guide during psychedelic experiences and strategies for creating a safe environment for exploration.

- Integration Process: Importance of preparation and integration sessions with psychedelic experiences.

- Techniques for building relationships with different parts of oneself through the use of IFS.

- The transformative potential of psychedelics in understanding vulnerability and compassion and the ongoing journey of integrating insights gained from psychedelic experiences into daily life.

Nick's web and social media links:
IG: @drnickbruss
Website: www.apracticeoffreedom.com
https://psychedelics.berkeley.edu/
https://doubleblindmag.com/
He'll be presenting with Dick Schwartz (IFS founder) on psychedelics at a trauma conference in Oxford in Sept: 
https://mastersevents.com/oxford-2025/

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

In this episode, I discuss growing a YouTube channel, particularly for a therapists, based on my own experiences and offering practical tips to enhance channel growth and engagement.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Three Key Areas for Growth

   - Video 'Packaging':
     - The significance of eye-catching thumbnails and compelling titles.
     - The role of dramatic descriptions in increasing click-through rates.
   - Content Creation:
     - Importance of creating engaging and relevant content.
     - Exploring various mental health topics that resonate with viewers.
   - Community Engagement:
     - Building a supportive community around your channel.
     - The impact of regular interaction with viewers.

2. Utilising YouTube Shorts:

   - How posting Shorts can drive traffic to your channel.
   - Tips for integrating Shorts with long-form content.

3. SEO and Discoverability:

   - The role of tags and descriptions in improving video visibility.
   - Strategies for optimising content for YouTube's algorithm.

4. Consistency is Key:

   - The necessity of regular content posting for channel growth.
   - Balancing personal interests with audience expectations.

5. Final Thoughts:

   - Encouragement to embrace creativity and authenticity in content creation.
   - Invitation for viewers to reach out for one-on-one consultations regarding channel development.
   - The importance of passion and consistency in creating content that not only attracts viewers but also fosters a meaningful community.

Thank you for listening. If you do enjoy it, please feel free to SHARE it, don't forget to 'FOLLOW' to show your support, it would be much appreciated!

My podcast with the audio of this video is at: https//www.buzzsprout.com/2067601

Website at: https://www.thistrustedplace.co.uk

***My FREE personal development course 'Life Unlimited: 10 Steps to Real Change is now available on this channel in a playlist you'll find on the channel homepage. Whether you're looking to move through anxiety, stress, depression, chronic anger, addictive behaviour, co-dependency, narcissism, low self-esteem/confidence, relationship problems, feeling stuck, lost or lacking in purpose – or simply want to experience more happiness, contentment and fulfilment in your life – see this free course and you'll discover it's carefully designed to help you to do this.*** 
 
'Life Unlimited' Course testimonials include: 

"John-Paul's course Life Unlimited more than lives up to its promise as a practical and accessible guide to making meaningful, positive changes in your life. He takes you on a clear path towards self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you to set healthy boundaries in your relationships with others." and

"The course is packed with valuable content, yet John-Paul's warm, non-judgemental style makes it feel more as if a friend is sharing some wonderful wisdom. 100% recommend."

Support the show

If there’s anything else you’d like to know about John-Paul and how he might be able to help you, please do contact him via his website www.thistrustedplace.co.uk