🎙️ Psychology, Actually with Dr Marianne Trent is a podcast about what’s really going on beneath the surface of our lives.
Through conversations with psychologists, professionals, and inspiring guests, we explore the psychology shaping our work, our relationships, and our inner worlds bringing together clinical insight with genuine human understanding.
This show was previously known as The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, and while it continues to support aspiring and qualified psychologists, it has grown into something broader. Because psychology doesn’t just shape our careers, it influences how we parent, how we grieve, how we connect, and how we cope when life doesn’t go to plan.
Alongside expert interviews, Dr Marianne Trent shares reflective solo episodes - making sense of complex human experiences with compassion, curiosity, and clarity.
Featuring conversations with leading voices in psychology including Professor Paul Gilbert, Dr Lucy Johnstone, and Dr Martha Deiros Collado - the podcast brings together a range of perspectives on what it means to live, work, and think psychologically.
New episodes are released every Monday at 6am (UK time).
Whether you’re an aspiring psychologist, a qualified practitioner, or simply someone interested in understanding yourself and others more deeply, this podcast offers thoughtful conversations that stay with you.
If you value the show please rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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Disability and Leadership in Psychology | Dr Sunil Lad, NHS Clinical Director
Episode 224
Friday, March 20, 2026 • Duration 33:15
Disability, Identity & Leadership in Psychology - Turning Difference into Strength! What if the thing that makes you feel different is actually the thing that makes you a better psychologist?In this episode we explore disability, identity, lived experience, and leadership in psychology, and how difference can shape powerful, compassionate clinical practice. I’m joined by Dr Sunil Lad, Consultant Counselling Psychologist and National NHS Clinical Director, who shares his experience of growing up in a body the world wasn’t built for and how that shaped his journey into psychology, leadership, and compassion-focused work.This episode is essential for aspiring psychologists, clinicians, and anyone who has ever felt “different” or questioned whether they belong in psychology.
Timestamps:
00:00 What if difference is your strength?
01:07 Introduction to Dr Sunil Lad
01:49 Growing up in a different body
03:07 Labels, identity, and what feels “freeing”
04:37 Family, comparison, and coping strategies
06:12 Feeling “different” and compensating through achievement
06:45 Being infantilised and navigating assumptions
07:48 Shame, asking for help, and self-compassion
09:30 Online trolling and the darker side of humanity
14:20 Working in prisons and breaking assumptions
17:11 Lived experience as clinical strength
20:43 Supporting families raising children who are “different”
23:39 The drama triangle explained
25:25 Advice for aspiring psychologists who feel different
Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
From International Student to Clinical Psychologist in the UK | Dr Samuel Chu
Episode 223
Friday, March 13, 2026 • Duration 41:52
How do international students actually become clinical psychologists in the UK? In this episode I speak with Dr Samuel Chu, originally from Hong Kong, who moved to London as an international student and is now a qualified NHS clinical psychologist.
We unpack the real pathway into UK clinical psychology training, including Tier 4 student visas, international student fees, assistant psychologist roles, NHS access, and the Clearing House application process.Samuel shares his journey of leaving Hong Kong at 18, adapting to British culture, gaining clinical experience in the NHS, and eventually qualifying as a psychologist in the UK.
If you’re an international student considering studying psychology in the UK, or an aspiring psychologist wondering how overseas applicants navigate the system, this episode offers an honest roadmap.
In this episode we discuss:
• studying psychology in the UK as an international student
• Tier 4 student visas and graduate visas
• international university fees and funding challenges
• gaining assistant psychologist experience
• applying to the DClinPsy through Clearing House• working in the NHS as an international trainee
• adapting to British culture and professional life
Whether you're already studying psychology abroad or exploring the idea of training in the UK, this conversation will help you understand what the journey really looks like.DClinPsy International
Timestamps
00:00 The reality of becoming a psychologist in the UK as an international student
01:25 Why Samuel moved from Hong Kong to study psychology in London
03:27 Cultural differences and adapting to life in the UK
06:02 Tier 4 visas and how international students study in the UK
07:31 International student fees and funding challenges
Why LinkedIn Matters for Psychologists (Even If You Hate Social Media)
Episode 214
Friday, January 9, 2026 • Duration 30:25
In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, we explore why LinkedIn matters for psychologists, even if social media feels uncomfortable or intimidating. I’m joined by Shirin Yazdian, and together we discuss visibility, authenticity, neurodiversity, advocacy, and the fear of getting things wrong online. We explore how LinkedIn can support aspiring and early-career psychologists through networking, learning, conferences, volunteering, Master’s applications, and professional development, while also addressing boundaries, professionalism, and digital footprints. This episode is ideal for aspiring psychologists, psychology students, early-career clinicians, and anyone curious about using LinkedIn in a way that feels safe, ethical, and genuinely human.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Why many psychologists avoid LinkedIn and why that might be a mistake
01:05 – Early assumptions about LinkedIn and what changed
01:42 – Humanising LinkedIn: being yourself first, professional second
03:28 – Getting past the “cringe” of first posts and fear of visibility
04:30 – Why LinkedIn can feel safer than other social platforms
05:59 – Turning online connections into real-world opportunities
08:17 – Providing value through curiosity, comments, and sharing resources
09:14 – Finding courses, talks, and opportunities via LinkedIn
11:19 – TEDx opportunities, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt
13:38 – Practical tips for optimising your LinkedIn profile
15:26 – Advocacy, values, and building a personal brand
17:14 – Neurodiversity, authenticity, and choosing aligned workplaces
21:44 – Being a person first, psychologist second
26:50 – Final reflections and encouragement to engage
Show Notes for The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast Episode 124: What is a Clinical Associate Psychologist? With Dr Dawn Reeves
Thank you for listening to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
In this episode we dive into the world of Clinical Associate Psychologists (CAPs) with our guest Dr. Dawn Reeves! We explore the role, training, and unique experiences within this dynamic field of psychology. We discover the diverse pathways and opportunities for aspiring psychologists. Tune in for insights on training, supervision, and how CAPs contribute to mental health services. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!
We hope you find it so useful.
I’d love any feedback you might have, and I’d love to know what your offers are and to be connected with you on socials so I can help you to celebrate your wins!
The Highlights:
(00:00) Dr. Marianne Trent introduces the topic of clinical associate psychologists
(01:03) Dr. Dawn Reeves joins as a guest
(01:57) Description of the CAP apprenticeship program
(02:16) Discussion on supervision and requirements
(03:05) Dr. Dawn Reeves talks about her background in psychology ·
(05:49) Varied experiences in psychology careers
(06:27) Diversity of roles within psychology
(07:23) Active nature of therapy work
(08:38) Dr. Dawn Reeves elaborates on her role in training CAPs
(12:47) Description of CAPs' varied placements
(14:36) Funding and employment details for CAP apprenticeships ·
(18:30) Flexibility and breaks in CAP training
(22:00) Advice for aspiring psychologists to avoid burnout
(26:11) Conclusion and encouragement for listeners
Links:
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🖥️ Check out my brand new short courses for aspiring psychologists and mental health professionals here:
How to Master Public Speaking - Psychologist Insights
Episode 123
Monday, April 15, 2024 • Duration 53:52
Show Notes for The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast Episode 123: How to master public speaking - psychologist insights
Thank you for listening to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
For those who have received interview offers this year for the DClinPsy, congratulations! You might be feeling nervous around this time and that is okay, perhaps this episode might be helpful to you (and for those who struggle with public speaking!). In this episode of the Aspiring Psychologist podcast, we speak with Assistant Psychologist, Jasmine, as we compare and contrast our experiences of speaking in public, group settings, meetings and the growth, self-care and bravery that comes with it. Join us as we discuss how our experiences shape our work as a psychologist, discuss tips to overcoming fear and anxiety associated with public speaking, and the value of speaking, feedback and self-care.
We hope you find it so useful.
I’d love any feedback you might have, and I’d love to know what your offers are and to be connected with you on socials so I can help you to celebrate your wins!
The Highlights:
(00:00): Introduction
(00:39): Introducing Jasmine
(01:40): Jasmine’s entry to the psychology world
(05:22): Stigma’s around older adult experiences
(08:11): The importance of public speaking in psychology roles
(09:18): Reflecting on childhood experiences that shape our careers as psychologists
(14:16): The importance of where you place your attention
(16:39): Being nervous is okay too (especially when it’s new)
(18:28): Practicing leadership skills doesn’t mean getting it right first, every time
(21:25): Finding long-term sustainable solutions to overcome difficulty
(23:31): The importance of space spaces
(27:12): It takes bravery to speak about vulnerabilities
(29:26): Using our voice is not only just important to psychology
(33:58): The value of feedback
(36:45): Thinking about the bigger picture and the purpose of public speaking
(39:58): Stop, drop (your shoulders) and breathe
What's it like working in politics as a psychologist?
Episode 122
Monday, April 8, 2024 • Duration 47:42
Show Notes for The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast Episode 121: Politics, Parliament and Psychology with Brad Powell
Thank you for listening to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
In this episode of the Aspiring Psychologist podcast, we speak with Trainee Clinical Psychologist, Bradley Powell, who is in his 3rd year of the doctorate and in a fascinating placement, which is certainly different to what you might normally think of, when you hear the world “placement”. Join Brad and I as we delve into the world of Parliament and UK politics, psychology and policy-making. We also discuss the importance of protecting the psychologist title in the UK and the impact of having an unprotected title on the wider public. If you would like to hear how Brad even got into this placement, how he appeared on the front page, and hear about a day in the life of a trainee in parliament, listen on!
We hope you find it so useful.
I’d love any feedback you might have, and I’d love to know what your offers are and to be connected with you on socials so I can help you to celebrate your wins!
The Highlights:
(00:00): Introduction
(01:42): Bradley’s journey to Psychology
(03:12): Imposter syndrome – everyone has them
(05:12): The importance of having life on the other side of the doctorate
(07:45): The power of psychology in policy making
(11:35): What work does a trainee psychologist do in politics?
(14:09): Protecting the psychologist title – why is it critical?
(17:08): The resistance in not protecting titles
(20:11): Learning from countries in policy-making and the role of learning in placements
(24:03): A day in the life of trainee clinical psychologist on placement
(27:58): The purpose of placements
(29:18): Prime Minister’s questions
(30:45): Making the front page
(33:56): That fascinating feeling of taking it all in
(36:17): The extensive checks that (sometimes) happen pre-placement
(37:42): The lasting impression of Parliament
The Honorary Psychology Role: 7 reasons it sparks debates
Episode 121
Monday, April 1, 2024 • Duration 24:20
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
It's a controversial one where I discus the controversy surrounding honorary assistant psychologist roles. These positions involve unpaid work supporting qualified psychologists in hospitals, clinics, or research settings. I highlight seven reasons why these roles are controversial. I argue that these roles are unethical and calls for a change in the way these positions are advertised and filled.
I hope you find it so useful and I would LOVE your feedback on this! Let me know in the comments on social media what you think!
Highlights:
00:00: Introduction to the controversy surrounding unpaid yet essential honorary assistant psychologist roles.
Working creatively as a psychologist with The Creative Clinical Psychologist - Dr Juliet Young
Episode 120
Monday, March 25, 2024 • Duration 43:24
Show Notes for The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast Episode 120: Working creatively in psychology with Dr Juliet Young
Thank you for listening to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
In this episode of the Aspiring Psychologist podcast, we speak with an already well-known creative figure, Dr Juliet Young, more widely known as creative clinical psychologist on Instagram. We speak about the beautiful illustrations of clinical psychology, her journey through navigating the pandemic and the hurdles to clinical psychology, and her work with clients in Foster Care and those seeking asylum. Juliet also speaks about her upcoming illustrated guide for aspiring psychologists to support with their journey in becoming fully qualified – all in her brilliantly creative way.
We hope you find it so useful.
I’d love any feedback you might have, and I’d love to know what your offers are and to be connected with you on socials so I can help you to celebrate your wins!
The Highlights:
(00:00): Introduction
(00:34): Welcoming Dr Juliet Young
(01:42): Juliet’s start in her psychology journey
(03:26): Unconventional routes
(06:09): Commuting from Bristol to London?
(07:47): Learning what Clinical Psychology is a little later on
(09:39): Perseverance – the keystone to being successful?
(11:04): It is okay to take a break from psychology
(11:56): There is freedom in being an unqualified psychologist
(14:11): Your life comes first
(15:07): The troubles during training
(18:35): the importance of instilling confidence
(20:47): There is always time
(21:44): Juliet’s current step in her journey
(23:51): Systems, swirling and Validation
(26:28): There is magic in what you do
(29:42): The first strokes of illustrating
(33:50): From Instagram to a book: An Illustrated Guide
(38:46): Keep in touch with Dr Juliet Young
(39:48): Summary and close
Navigating psychology from a wheelchair with complex pain
Episode 1119
Monday, March 18, 2024 • Duration 36:07
Show Notes for The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast Episode 119: Navigating psychology from a wheelchair
Thank you for listening to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
In this episode of the Aspiring Psychologist podcast, we speak with Gavin Clarke, a previous guest on this podcast, where we discuss the complexity and spectrum of disability and types of disability. Gavin talks us through embracing and accepting his disability and being a wheelchair user, as well as the support that is out there for people with disabilities. Join us as we explore Gavin’s podcast, life experiences and the importance of acceptance with Gavin.
We hope you find it so useful.
I’d love any feedback you might have, and I’d love to know what your offers are and to be connected with you on socials so I can help you to celebrate your wins!
The Highlights
(00:00): Introduction
(01:31): Some freebies for my loyal listeners!
(03:02): Introducing Gavin
(04:19): Congenital talipes equinovarus and it’s lifelong impact
(06:10): The different types of wheelchair users
(07:22): The development of congenital talipes equinovarus
(09:29): Driving with a wheelchair?
(11:32): The wheelchair gave me opportunity
(14:09): Acceptance is freedom
(17:08): The difficulty in trying to remove politics from disability in society
(19:35): Experiences do not necessarily make you a better or worse person – it is just you
(21:48): There is no specific list of people with disabilities
(22:56): Some support is out there!
(26:36): Sometimes there is no “enhanced” experience as a person with a disability
Show Notes for The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast Episode 118: Exploring LGBTQ+ Identity in Psychology
Thank you for listening to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast.
In this episode of the Aspiring Psychologist podcast, we speak with Phil Pampoulou, a trainee clinical psychologist in his third year where we speak about all things on LGPBTQ+ identity and mental health. You might remember Phil from a previous episode speaking about personal growth and self-discovery, so definitely check that out. Join us as we delve into why research matters, the experience of working in the mental health field as someone with an LGBTQ+ identity, the importance of understanding cross-cultural differences and how you can get involved in Phil’s fascinating research study!
We hope you find it so useful.
I’d love any feedback you might have, and I’d love to know what your offers are and to be connected with you on socials so I can help you to celebrate your wins!
The Highlights:
(00:00): Introduction
(00:59): Welcoming back Phil
(02:36): A little background on Phil – in case you missed it!
(03:23): Exploring what your third-year research project may be
(05:09): More about Phil’s research study
(06:04): The current stage of the study
(08:05): The experience of being a gay man whilst on training
(10:47): Exploring the intricacy of relationships and what that means for sexually diverse people
(13:23): On the difficulty of internal acceptance and guardedness
(14:45): How are people culturally shaped in a society?
(17:28): Research matters because it can transcend different cultures
(18:53): Thinking beyond the surface on the flipside of those with an LQBTQ+ identity
Ask Marianne your most pressing psychology career question and she will send you a FREE bespoke reply! Grab your free psychology success guide here and fill in the most pressing concern box: https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk (scroll to the bottom of the page)
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent
If you enjoy the podcast, please do subscribe and rate and review episodes. If you'd like to learn how to record and submit your own audio testimonial to be included in future shows head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/podcast and click the blue request info button at the top of the page.
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