Mental Work

Bron is joined by Renae Martelli (psychologist, Board-approved supervisor, and former school psychologist) to unpack what school psychology really involves. Renae shares how the role differs from private practice, why the work is more varied than most people expect, and how to figure out if being a school psychologist is for you.  They chat about:👉 What a typical school psychologist's day actually looks like👉 How to get into school psychology and what qualifications you need👉 Navigating multiple relationships and confidentiality within schools👉 The personality traits that suit (or don't suit) school psychology Guest: Renae Martelli, Psychologist at Think Feel Grow and Board-Approved Supervisor LINKS Renae's private practice, Think Feel Grow Renae's Instagram Renae's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Amy Howell (Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Co-Founder of Centre Self Collective) to unpack what our core psychological needs actually are and why they matter so much in clinical work. Amy shares how unmet needs in childhood shape attachment styles, coping patterns, and the schemas we carry into adulthood, and why acknowledging this isn't about parent-blaming. They chat about:👉 The difference between a core need and a want👉 How unmet needs shape attachment styles and adult behaviour👉 How to explore unmet needs with clients without slipping into parent-blaming👉 Practical ways to help clients identify and meet their core needs Guest: Amy Howell, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Co-Founder of Centre Self Collective LINKS Amy's private practice - Centre Self Collective: https://centreself.com.au/ Download Amy's core needs self-assessment checklist here: https://centreself.com.au/blog Reinventing Your Life by Jeffrey Young Schema therapy training in Australia THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Anastasia Sagris-Desmond (psychologist and graduate of the Pathways to Politics Program) about advocacy beyond the therapy room. Anastasia shares how three decades working in gambling harm and family violence led her into politics, union leadership, and co-authoring a book on coercive control and financial abuse. They chat about:👉🏽 Why early-career psychologists often feel pressure to "stay small" and avoid advocacy👉🏻 How gambling harm is treated as a mitigating factor in the justice system👉 What coercive control and financial abuse actually look like👉🏿 Practical first steps for psychologists who want to get involved in advocacy or policy Guest: Anastasia Sagris-Desmond, Psychologist and AHPRA-Approved Supervisor LINKS Book authored by Tammy Casselson on surviving domestic violence: The Grimmest of Fairy Tales: A Lived Experience Voice That Offers Hope, Exposes Red Flags and Empowers Allies Pathways to Politics program (active in every Australian state and territory) Centre for Women's Economic Safety "Compulsion, convergence or crime?" A report from the Centre for Innovative Justice on contact with the criminal justice system as a form of gambling harm. Medical Scientists Association of Victoria (MSAV) The Adolescent Man Box Report THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron tackles a listener question: how do you actually stay evidence-based once you're out of university, time-poor, and no longer have easy access to academic databases? She walks through the full range of free and low-cost options, from AI search tools to library memberships, so you can keep up-to-date with research without it becoming a second job. Bron covers:👉🏽 The AI tools built specifically for searching academic literature, and where general tools like ChatGPT fall short👉🏻 Free options like Google Scholar alerts, ResearchGate, and alumni library access👉 How to quickly find the "clinical implications" of any paper👉🏿 Where to find clinical practice guidelines for the conditions you treat most LINKS Bron has put all the links for this episode into a handy blog post. Head here for the full list: https://www.mentalworkpodcast.com/blog/how-do-i-stay-evidence-based-keeping-up-with-research-after-you-graduate-a-guide-for-psychologists/ THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Kyle Miller (psychologist working in forensic private practice) about what it's really like to work with people who have committed sexual or violent offences. Kyle shares how he found his way into forensic work almost by accident, and why "I work with people" has become his guiding philosophy. They chat about:👉🏽 The biggest misconceptions about people who commit sexual offences👉🏻 How Kyle manages countertransference and the pressure to "fix" clients👉 Why learning forensic terminology and skills happens on the job, not at uni👉🏿 How to build rapport with clients who don't want to be in the room Guest: Kyle Miller, Psychologist at Melbourne Private Psychology LINKS Melbourne Private Psychology Beyond The Crime podcast THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by returning guest Harriet Isles (psychologist and founder of Restorative Space Psychology) to talk about therapist self-disclosure. Harriet shares her practical, intentional approach to deciding when sharing personal information with a client helps the therapeutic relationship, and when it gets in the way. They chat about:👉🏽 How to know when self-disclosure is actually for the client's benefit, not your own👉🏻 What the AHPRA Code of Conduct says about sharing personal information with clients👉 Findings from the 2025 "Goldilocks Disclosures" study on when self-disclosure lands well (and when it backfires)👉🏿 Why speaking "from the scar, not the wound" protects clients from role confusion Guest: Harriet Isles, Psychologist and Founder of Restorative Space Psychology LINKS Research article: "Goldilocks disclosures: A qualitative exploration of when therapist self-disclosure of lived experience is "just right" Harriet's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restorativespacepsychology/ THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Nishie Govender (clinical psychologist and occupational psychology consultant) for an honest conversation about building a career that looks nothing like the one you imagined. Nishie shares how realising full-time clinical work wasn't sustainable for her led to a fulfilling dual career working between corporate psychology and private practice, and what prompted her to go back to study a Clinical Masters bridging course as a registered psychologist. They chat about: 👉🏻 What a corporate/occupational psychology role actually looks like day-to-day, and why it surprised her 👉 How clinical training transfers into nonclinical settings (and vice versa) 👉🏿 What the post-registration Clinical Masters bridging course involves, and who it's really for 👉🏾 The identity challenges of going back to being a student when you're already a competent psychologist Guest: Nishie Govender, Clinical Psychologist LINKS Cetas Psychology website THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Samantha Duroska (clinical psychologist) for a practical deep dive into using imagery techniques in therapy. They chat about: 👉🏽 How to adapt if clients struggle to visualise👉🏻 The common mistake of talking about imagery but not actually doing imagery👉🏿 How to manage dissociation risks with simple, practical grounding strategies👉 Why allowing clients to feel strong emotion in session can be a strength, not a failure 👉🏼 How Samantha manages her own emotions doing trauma work, and why she still finds it deeply meaningful Guest: Samantha Duroska, Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor LINKS Samantha Duroska's website Previous episode with Samantha on IRRT THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Richard Sedgman (social worker and founder of Live Well HQ) to talk about one of the most emotionally challenging areas in clinical work: supporting clients through grief and loss. Richard draws on his three years in palliative care and extensive private practice experience to share what actually helps, and what well-meaning therapists often get wrong. They chat about: 👉🏽 The difference between grief, bereavement, and loss, and why grief extends far beyond death👉🏻 Why ACT and narrative therapy are Richard's go-to approaches with grieving clients 👉 The powerful "wave" analogy that helps clients understand how grief shifts over time 👉🏿 The common therapist mistakes to avoid👉🏼 Why therapists don't need lived experience of a loss to do genuinely good grief work Guest: Richard Sedgman, Social Worker, Therapist, and founder of Live Well HQ LINKS Live Well HQ website Live Well HQ on Instagram THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Ethan Solomon (organisational psychologist and private practice therapist) to chat about building a career that blends both therapy and corporate work. Ethan shares how he went from wanting to be a clinical psychologist to specialising in psychometric assessment, leadership development, and coaching, while keeping one foot firmly in private practice therapy. They chat about: 👉🏽 What organisational psychology actually involves day-to-day👉🏻 The transferable skills that connect therapy and org psych work 👉🏿 Why knowing your values is the best career compass you have 👉🏾 The misconceptions early-career psychs hold about what their career can look like 👉🏼 Why the human element in psychology will always matter, even in a world of AI Thank you for sharing your story, Ethan! 😊 Guest: Ethan Solomon, Organisational Psychologist and Therapist LINKS Ethan Solomon on LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this short bonus episode, Bron discusses the financial stress experienced by many psychology students undertaking placements and the push to include psychology students in the Australian Government's Commonwealth Prac Payment scheme. She covers:👉🏽 Why psychology students currently miss out on the Commonwealth Prac Payment👉🏻 The data on financial stress during unpaid placements👉 Case studies of financial stress during psychology placements👉🏿 The petition currently before Federal Parliament and how you can support it LINKS Sign the petition to end placement poverty here "Placement poverty is holding the next generation of psychologists back" - Article published by the Australian Psychological Society THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by returning guest Matthew Jackson to celebrate episode 200 with a live recording about one of the most important questions in early-career psychology: how do you actually make this career sustainable? They chat about:👉🏽 What hasn't worked for their own sustainable practice, including poor work/life boundaries, rescuer complexes, and placement scarcity👉🏻 How time-blocking psychology roles (and building a life outside them) changed everything for Matthew👉 Why "stints" in different roles are not a red flag on your CV but a sign of healthy self-knowledge👉🏿 What has kept them both in the field, even when quitting felt very close Guest: Matthew Jackson, Registered Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Ceara Rickard (psychologist, Board-Approved Supervisor, and lived experience leader at Life Without Barriers) for a wide-ranging conversation about what it really means to be a psychologist. Ceara shares her journey to working proudly in the NGO and lived experience sector, and challenges the profession to grapple more critically with power, privilege, and human rights. They chat about: 👉🏽 Why lived experience is a legitimate and powerful clinical skill, not something to hide👉🏻 What a week in a large NGO actually looks like👉🏾 Why viewing NGO work as a "stepping stone" is problematic👉 The hidden hierarchy in psychology and why it can get in the way of therapeutic work Guest: Ceara Rickard, Psychologist, Board-Approved Supervisor, and Lived Experience Leader LINKS Ceara Rickard's website Ceara on LinkedIn Life Without Barriers THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Kate Crosher (founding director of the Australian Educational and Developmental Psychology Association, AEDPA) to unpack the Australian Psychology Board's proposed training pathway redesign. Kate breaks down what the proposed changes are in plain English, reassures current trainees and early career psychologists about what could change (and what isn't), and makes a compelling case for why every psychologist should make a submission before the consultation period closes on June 10th, 2026. UPDATE: While the submission period has closed, you can still read about the proposed changes in the links below. They chat about: 👉🏽 What the single five-year pathway to general registration would look like 👉🏻 Why the proposed AQF level drop from 9 to 8 matters for salaries, career progression, and research 👉 The risks and opportunities of industry-accredited workplaces replacing registrar program👉🏿 Why the Board is proposing to remove provisional registration and what student registration means instead 👉🏾 How to make a submission (even if you only have 10 minutes) using the AEDPA submission generator Guest: Kate Crosher, Educational & Developmental/Clinical Psychologist and Founding Director of AEDPA LINKS Kate's psychology practice, Enfys Psychology - Kate is also a Board-Approved supervisor 🌈 AEDPA Position Summary on PsyBA Training Pathway Redesign Consultation and here's info about the Australia Education and Developmental Psychologists Association More information on redesigning the higher degree pathway from the Australian Psychology Board Information from AAPi about the PsyBA proposal Submission from the Australian Psychological Society (APS) THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Patricia Gallagher (psychologist & EMDR consultant) to unpack how early-career clinicians can safely and confidently support survivors of family and domestic violence. They chat about:👉🏽 The difference between toxic relationships and coercive control👉 How to respond when clients don’t recognise they’re in an abusive relationship👉🏿 Managing rescuer instincts and countertransference as therapists👉🏾 Supporting clients who cannot safely leave a relationship yet👉🏼 EMDR, stabilisation, and trauma recovery for victim survivors Guest: Patricia Gallagher, Psychologist, EMDR Consultant, and Board-Approved Supervisor LINKS Patricia's psychology practice, Gallagher Psychology Understanding EMDR podcast with Tracy Lynch Neurodivergent Women podcast episode with Patricia See What You Made Me Do by Jess Hill THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Tiffany, a licensed psychotherapist based in Switzerland, to chat about the emotional realities of starting out in therapy and what it’s like working in mental health on the other side of the world. They chat about:👉🏽 Why personal therapy helped Tiffany become a better clinician👉🏻 Feeling like you’re “drowning and swimming at the same time” when starting therapy work👉 How comparison and perfectionism can fuel early-career self-doubt👉🏼 The differences between Australian and Swiss mental health systems Guest: Tiffany Kanani Limacher, Licensed Psychotherapist THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Chris Long, psychologist, to unpack two of the most widely used trauma therapies: EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT. If you’re an early-career clinician who feels nervous about trauma work, overwhelmed by the number of approaches out there, or worried about “making things worse” by asking clients about trauma, this episode is for you. They chat about:👉🏽 Common fears early-career psychologists have about trauma work👉🏻 How trauma-focused CBT uses exposure and behavioural experiments👉 The Adaptive Information Processing model behind EMDR👉🏼 Why structured therapies can help early-career clinicians feel more confident Guest: Chris Long, Psychologist LINKS 'Notice That' EMDR Podcast Phoenix Australia often offers professional development on trauma, including TF-CBT THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Dr Catherine Hart (Clinical Psychologist) to unpack one of the most overlooked but clinically significant parts of therapy: therapeutic endings. Catherine shares how recent large-scale clinic closures prompted her to reflect on how little training clinicians receive on ending therapy, despite how emotionally complex and ethically important it is. Together, she and Bron explore why endings can stir up attachment wounds, countertransference, and grief for both clients and clinicians. They chat about:👉🏽 Why therapeutic endings are often neglected in training and why it matters👉🏻 The difference between planned and unplanned endings (and why unplanned endings can increase risk)👉 How to prepare clients for endings from the very first session👉🏿 What ethical, “good” endings actually look like, including transparency, collaboration, and continuity of care👉🏾 Managing strong client reactions like anger, distress, or withdrawal👉🏼 What to do when clients suddenly drop out or “ghost” therapy Thanks as always Catherine for this informative and engaging episode! Guest: Dr Catherine Hart (Clinical Psychologist, Director of Succoris Psychology and Succoris Psychology Partnerships, Private Practice Business Coach) LINKS Catherine's psychology practice, Succoris Psychology Catherine's on-demand course, "DBT Launchpad: Build & Run a Successful Program" THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Dr George Loram (Psychologist working in Mparntwe/Alice Springs) to explore what it’s like to work as a psychologist in very remote Australia and with Aboriginal mob. George shares how a placement during lockdown led him to stay long-term, and what surprised him most about working with Aboriginal communities. They chat about:👉🏽 What a typical week looks like across remote clinics and private practice👉🏻 How being a “person first and psychologist second” can transform your work and relationships👉🏾 Practical ways to work in culturally safe ways, including listening, observing, and letting go of the expert role👉🏼 Navigating perfectionism, structure, and uncertainty as an early-career psychologist This episode is a powerful reflection on what happens when you let go of doing therapy “the right way” and instead focus on connection, culture, and community. Thanks so much George, we loved having you on the podcast! 😊 Guest: Dr George Loram - Clinical Psychologist at Central Australian Aboriginal Congress LINKS George's LinkedIn Central Australian Aboriginal Congress THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Tess Philip (psychologist and founder of Tess Philip Psychology) to chat about her provisional psychology journey and what it takes to keep going when everything feels stacked against you. They chat about:👉🏽 Tess' experience of working across six different workplaces during her internship.👉🏻 What workplace bullying can look like in psychology training👉 How Tess navigated repeated setbacks and environments that left her questioning her competence and career path👉🏾 How creativity, purpose, and persistence can help you get through Definitely give this episode a listen! Thanks Tess! 💖 Guest: Tess Philip - Registered Psychologist, mentor for support workers and founder of a former national award-winning psychosocial support service provider LINKS Website: tessphilippsychology.com.au Instagram: @tessphilip.psychology THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Ben Searle (Organisational Psychologist and burnout researcher) to unpack what it really looks like to treat clients with severe burnout. Ben shares his own experience of burning out during COVID after years of researching stress, and why even doing “all the right things” didn’t lead to quick recovery. They chat about:👉🏽 Why burnout is still poorly understood and often lacks clear treatment pathways👉🏻 How to tell the difference between stress and severe burnout in your clients👉 The hidden severity of burnout, including cognitive, emotional, and physical impacts👉🏿 Why time off alone often isn’t enough for recovery (and what the research actually shows)👉🏾 Practical ways to support clients, including hope-building, pacing, and re-engaging with meaningful activities👉🏼 Working with cynicism, detachment, and loss of motivation in therapy You’ll walk away from this episode with a clearer framework for recognising severe burnout and some realistic, compassionate ways to support recovery when clients feel completely stuck. Guest: Dr Ben J. Searle - Organisational psychologist, survivor of burnout, host of 'Mind on the Job' podcast LINKS Ben's podcast: Mind on the Job Ben's website Ben's newsletter THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Amy Henderson (Organisational Psychologist) to unpack psychosocial hazards in the workplace and what early-career mental health workers need to know about recognising and responding to them. They chat about:👉 What psychosocial hazards are and how they differ from physical workplace hazards👉🏾 Why high caseloads, isolation, and workplace bullying are common risks in mental health work👉 The subtle warning signs that your work might be affecting your wellbeing👉🏿 How to tell the difference between “something wrong with me” and a systemic workplace issue👉 What rights workers have if they’re experiencing psychosocial harm at work👉🏾 Practical ways psychologists can support clients dealing with workplace bullying or burnout Thanks so much Amy! Guest: Amy Henderson - Organisational Psychologist, PhD Candidate with UQ University, Psychosocial Health Coach, HR Data Analyst LINKS Amy's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Vi-An Nguyen (Organisational Psychologist and Founder of An Tâm Psychology) to talk about how culture shapes both our own experiences and those of our clients, and why conversations about culture and work matter for the clients we support. They chat about:👉🏽 Why discussions about culture and work can feel uncomfortable but necessary👉🏾 The common workplace tensions faced by people from culturally diverse backgrounds👉🏻 The pressure to assimilate versus staying authentic at work👉🏿 How family expectations and concepts like filial piety can influence career choices👉🏽 Practical ways early-career clinicians can sensitively explore culture with clients Thanks Vi-An for this important and informative conversation! Guest: Vi-An Nguyen - Organisational Psychologist passionate about culturally responsive mental health and Founder of An Tâm Psychology LINKS Vi-An's psychology and coaching practice, An Tâm Psychology Vi-An's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Dr Catherine Hart (Clinical Psychologist and Director of Succoris Psychology) to chat about how to stay relevant and innovative as a mental health worker in a rapidly changing mental health landscape. They chat about:👉 Why innovation in psychology often comes from necessity👉 How small changes in systems or services can improve client care👉 Why many clinicians want more variety than full-time one-to-one therapy👉 Managing fear of failure and backlash from colleagues when trying something new👉 Practical ways early-career psychologists can experiment with ideas safely Thanks Catherine for this important conversation! Guest: Dr Catherine Hart - Clinical Psychologist, Director of Succoris Psychology and Succoris Psychology Partnerships, Private Practice Business Coach LINKS Catherine's psychology practice, Succoris Psychology THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Laura Lee (psychologist & sexologist) to talk about why sexual healthcare matters in therapy and how to talk about sex with clients without fear, awkwardness, or shame. They chat about:👉 Laura's journey into sexology, beginning with noticing gaps in her own psychology training👉🏿 Why avoiding conversations about sex can unintentionally reinforce stigma👉🏾 Common barriers clinicians face to talking about sexual health with clients👉🏼 The EX-PLISSIT model as a practical, containing framework for opening up conversations about sex, which psychologists can use in everyday practice Thank you Laura for this incredible conversation! 🥰 Guest: Laura Lee, Psychologist and Sexologist, Board-Approved Supervisor LINKS Laura's LinkedIn Laura's Instagram @lauraleesexology Laura's private psychology practice Research paper published by Laura: "The impact of communication on sexual response: A summary of findings" Research paper: The Extended PLISSIT Model for Addressing the Sexual Wellbeing of Individuals with an Acquired Disability or Chronic Illness THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Dr Trisnasari Fraser (Community Psychologist and researcher) to explore how sharing music across cultures can foster connection, build community resilience, and deepen cultural humility in mental health work. We chat about:👉🏽 Trisnasari's music-filled pathway from running a multicultural performing arts school to completing a PhD on intercultural music engagement.👉🏻 Musicking as a social, community act that fosters belonging.👉🏿 How music can help us hold both cultural difference and shared humanity at the same time.👉🏼 How early-career psychologists can think beyond the therapy room and consider how creativity, music, and community participation can support healing, belonging, and sustainable practice. Guest: Trisnasari Fraser, Community Psychologist and Postdoctoral Researcher LINKS Trisnasari's research page at the University of Melbourne Trisnasari's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Calling new psychology Masters students - this episode is for you! Bron completed the 5+1 Masters & is now completing a Master of Clinical Psychology, and Jordan completed an Educational/Developmental Masters. In this episode, we share what we wish we knew before starting our Masters and our best tips for making it through the course. We chat about:👉🏽 Why learning matters far more than grades👉🏻 How Masters is the safest time to try out different approaches👉 The realities of juggling work and placements👉🏿 The importance of asking for help early Guest: Jordan Turner, Educational & Developmental Psychologist LINKS Jordan's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Huda Al Bukhari (clinical psychologist) for an early-career listener story that spans social work, clinical psychology training, and practising across Australia and Abu Dhabi! They chat about: 👉🏽 What it was really like to move from social work into psychology, including the fear of "not making it" 👉🏻 Managing the intensity of a clinical psychology Masters, including what helped👉🏿 Moving overseas in the middle of a Registrar program👉🏾 What it's been like working cross-culturally with children and adolescents in Abu Dhabi👉 Practical strategies that Huda uses to stay grounded and avoid burnout This episode is a reassuring reminder that early-career paths are rarely linear, and that flexibility, reflection, and support matter. Thank you Huda! 🥰 Guest: Huda Al Bukhari, Clinical Psychologist LINKS Huda's Instagram where she shares educational videos for parents: @guiding_youngminds Huda's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Claire Trevitt (psychologist and Board-approved supervisor) to unpack one of the most quietly stressful parts of early-career practice: client retention. Together, they explore why clients disengage from therapy and why it’s so often not a sign that you’re “bad at therapy.” They chat about:👉🏽 Why ambivalence and drop-out are common (and normal)👉🏻 How to spot readiness for change through attendance and in-session cues👉🏿 Practical ways to slow down, check in, and keep clients engaged👉🏾 Using permission-giving, pacing, and a “menu of choices” in sessions👉🏼 When supervision, feedback, and skill-building can genuinely help This episode is a reassuring, practical conversation for early-career psychologists who care deeply about their work and are quietly worrying they’re “not doing enough.” If you’ve ever taken client disengagement personally, this one’s for you! Guest: Claire Trevitt, Psychologist and Supervisor at The Growing Therapist and Host of the Between Two Psychs Podcast LINKS Claire's podcast, Between Two Psychs Claire's training/supervision website, The Growing Therapist Outcome Rating Scale and Session Rating Scale THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron speaks with Dr Hayley D Quinn (former clinical psychologist turned anti-burnout coach) about the realities of working in mental health when you’re still finding your feet including self-doubt, emotional load, and the pressure to feel more competent than you actually feel. Hayley also shares her personal story of changing careers from clinical psychology to business coaching, and how self-compassion helped her through this enormous period of change. They chat about:👉🏽 Early-career self-doubt and imposter syndrome👉🏻 The emotional impact of client work👉🏿 Learning to tolerate uncertainty in sessions👉🏾 Using supervision as support, not performance👉🏼 Building sustainability rather than perfection Guest: Dr Hayley D Quinn - Former clinical psychologist turned anti-burnout business coach LINKS Hayley's book, From Self-Neglect to Self-Compassion: https://drhayleydquinn.com/product/book/ Hayley's podcast "Welcome to Self": https://drhayleydquinn.com/podcasts/ Hayley's Website, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Beatrice Ng-Kessler (Clinical Psychologist, Schema Therapy Trainer) about working therapeutically with clients from collectivist cultures, and why Western, individualistic models don’t always translate as cleanly as we expect. They chat about:👉🏽 How collectivist and individualist values shape therapy👉🏻 Filial piety, family hierarchy, and unmet needs👉🏿 Cultural safety, humility, and therapist authority👉🏾 Working with emotional suppression in schema therapy👉🏼 Practical ways to build safety without pushing too fast This episode is essential listening for early-career clinicians wanting to work more thoughtfully, safely, and effectively across cultures. Guest: Beatrice Ng-Kesler – Clinical Psychologist, Schema Therapy Trainer, founder of the Chinese Schema Therapy Academy LINKS Register for Beatrice's next online workshop on Adapting Psychotherapy for Collectivistic Cultures, scheduled for February 2026! More upcoming trainings offered by Beatrice, including training on adapting psychotherapy for collectivist cultures Article written by Beatrice, published by the British Psychological Society: Connecting worlds and finding common ground Chinese Schema Therapy Academy THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Prunella Howell-Jay (Lived Experience Supervisor) to chat about what lived experience workers actually do, why peer work is a discipline (not just a vibe), and how clinicians and peer workers can work together in ways that are respectful, collaborative, and grounded in human rights. They chat about:👉🏽 What lived experience workers actually do in mental health teams👉🏻 Why peer work is a discipline, not “just sharing a story”👉🏿 Boundaries, scope of practice, and common misconceptions👉🏾 How clinicians can be allies when peer workers are tokenised or sidelined👉🏼 What good collaboration looks like in practice Guest: Prunella Howell-Jay - Lived Experience Supervisor, Workforce Coordinator, Trainer and Facilitator LINKS Prunella's LinkedIn Lived Experience Australia THE END BITS Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Denver Simonsz (Psychologist, Supervisor, Writer) to chat about how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has shaped not only his therapeutic work with clients over the past 18 years, but also his own career trajectory and personal life. They chat about:👉🏽 How ACT can be a guiding compass for early-career psychologists👉🏻 Navigating the internal and external challenges of being a psychologist👉 Figuring out professional identity 👉🏿 How Denver once left a workplace to focus on self-care Guest: Denver Simonsz - Psychologist, Board-Approve Supervisor, Writer LINKS Denver writes a popular newsletter on Effective Practice - Join the mailing list here Denver's Instagram and LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the final episode of the year, Bron reflects on the wins and challenges of 2025, her favourite episode this year, behind-the-scenes updates to the podcast, and a sneak peek of episodes coming up in 2026. If you've enjoyed the podcast this year, please consider buying Bron & editor Michael a virtual coffee at buymeacoffee.com/mentalwork. New episodes coming to you from January 15 2026! 🌈 LINKS Burnout Part 1 and Burnout Part 2 with Matthew Jackson THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron speaks with Dr Lyn O’Grady (community psychologist and suicidology researcher) about person-centred suicide prevention. Lyn shares how decades of work across communities, schools, projects and private practice shaped her understanding of suicidality and why relying solely on checklists can shut down meaningful conversations. They chat about:👉🏽 How person-centred care differs from traditional risk assessments👉🏻 The limits of low/medium/high suicide-risk categories👉🏿 Using risk formulation and collaborative, empowering safety planning👉 Keeping conversations open without increasing shame or fear👉🏽 How clinicians can sit with uncertainty, use existing skills, and practise sustainably in this challenging space Guest: Lyn O'Grady - Community Psychologist LINKS Lyn is featured in this article: ​How to take a person-centred approach to suicide prevention, published by the Australian Psychological Society Lyn is available for supervision - you can message her on LinkedIn Open-access research paper: Cognitive Behavior Therapy With and Without Narrative Assessment and Suicide Attempts: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2025): "Results suggest that a narrative assessment (of suicide risk) may be a simple and effective way to capture the forces that lead to suicide attempts and to direct interventions toward their prevention." 👏 THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron speaks with Dr Chrissy Antonopoulos (psychologist and founder of Beyond Bias Consulting) about her PhD research on implicit bias towards people with disability in Australia. Chrissy shares how her lived experience of blindness led her to investigate the subtle and often invisible attitudes shaping workplace decisions, clinical interactions, and public policy. They chat about: 👉🏽 The difference between explicit and implicit bias 👉🏻 The Stereotype Content Model👉 Participant's views of people with disability in terms of competence and warmth👉🏿 What early-career clinicians can do to challenge implicit assumptions about people with disability Guest: Dr Chrissy Antonopoulos - Psychologist LINKS Chrissy's research paper discussed in the episode: Implicit bias towards people with disability in Australia: relationship with personal values Chrissy's consulting business, Beyond Bias Consulting Chrissy's Instagram @the_blind_psychologist THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career psychologists about working in mental health. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and guest Dr Bianca Denny unpack one of the trickiest early-career topics: professional boundaries in therapy. Together, they break down what boundaries actually mean (and don’t mean), how to navigate self-disclosure, gift-giving, ethical grey areas, and what to do when you realise a boundary has been crossed by you or a colleague. 👉 We cover:  Bianca's practical framework for handling dilemmas How to distinguish boundary crossings from violations Why supervision is your best friend How to approach online spaces responsibly. Whether you’re feeling anxious about “getting it wrong” or just want to strengthen your ethical confidence, this episode will help you manage boundaries with clarity and calm. Guest: Dr Bianca Denny - Clinical Psychologist, Board-Approved Supervisor, Author LINKS Bianca's book discussed in the episode: The How-To of Psychotherapy: A Practical Guide for Therapists (HIGHLY recommended! 🥰) Bianca's website, LinkedIn, Instagram Bianca's other book: Talk To Me: Lessons from Patients and Their Therapist THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever felt like you’re carrying the extra weight of your identity into every supervision meeting, team huddle, or client session? That’s not “just stress.” It might be identity-based burnout. In this ep, Bron and guest Shuktika Bose unpack identity-based burnout - what it is and how to navigate it. 👉🏾 We cover: How identity-based burnout differs from general workplace burnout The emotional and nervous system toll of constantly “proving yourself” What psychological safety really looks like at work Boundaries as acts of self-preservation and cultural respect How to find your voice - even when it feels risky Guest: Shuktika Bose - Clinical Psychologist, Mental Health Consultant & Speaker LINKS Shuktika's website, Instagram, LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and guest Renae Martelli explore how letting go of the tools and strategies we cling to as early-career therapists might actually make us better at our jobs. We unpack what happens when we stop trying to “do” therapy perfectly and instead tune in to the client, the context, and the process. 👉🏽 We cover: Why tools and worksheets can sometimes hold us back The shift from doing therapy to being a therapist How supervision helps refine your therapist lens Letting go of self-criticism and embracing self-compassion in your practice Expect practical insights, plenty of “I’ve done that too” moments, and an honest conversation about what it really takes to grow as a therapist. Thanks Renae! 😊 Guest: Renae Martelli, Psychologist, supervisor and owner of Think Feel Grow LINKS Renae's private practice Renae's Instagram Renae's LinkedIn The DNA-V model (We talked about this approach in the episode)  THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and guest Claire Trevitt discuss the concepts of transference and countertransference. Bron has been eager to record this episode for two years, and it does not disappoint! Claire explains the nuances of these concepts that are essential for every mental health professional to understand. The episode covers what transference and countertransference are, why they're important in therapy, and offers practical strategies for managing them. Claire shares personal anecdotes from her extensive psychodynamic training and supervision, making the concepts relatable and easier to grasp. Bron and Claire also discuss the importance of supervision, personal therapy, and how to handle these reactions professionally. Enjoy and don't miss listening to this episode! 🤩 Guest: Claire Trevitt, Psychologist and Supervisor at The Growing Therapist and Host of the 'Between Two Psychs' Podcast LINKS Claire's podcast, Between Two Psychs Claire's training/supervision website, The Growing Therapist Nancy McWilliam's books on Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (recommended by Claire) An Introduction to Contemporary Psychodynamic Psychotherapy by Jonathan Shelder (recommended by Bron - an easier introduction to psychodynamic concepts) THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and guest Harriet Iles chat about managing common feelings that show up alongside running a private practice early in your career, including imposter syndrome, anxiety, and overthinking. Harriet shares her valuable insights, including her personal experiences with imposter syndrome while running her own private practice. We discuss common definitions, myths, and misunderstandings about imposter syndrome, and explore practical strategies like self-compassion, peer support, and value alignment for managing these feelings. Tune in for an engaging and enlightening conversation aimed at helping mental health workers build confidence and navigate their early careers with compassion and curiosity. Guest: Harriet Iles, Consultant Psychologist LINKS Harriet's LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and guest Dr Amy Talbot discuss how to manage the emotional and clinical challenges that often show up when working with complex presentations. Amy shares her journey, starting with treating enduring eating disorders to tackling less understood issues like tic disorders. Then we go through practical strategies for managing our own emotional responses to complex clients. The episode offers practical tips for dealing with anxiety, frustration, and uncertainty, stressing the importance of supervision and self-care. Guest: Dr Amy Talbot, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Founder & Director of Clinical Services at The Talbot Centre LINKS Amy's psychology practice, The Talbot Centre (main website) and Facebook Amy regularly delivers training for early-career psychologists and supervisors of early-career psychologists, click here for more info THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We covered imposter syndrome wayyy back when the podcast started in 2021 - it's time for a revisit now that we're older and... wiser? Bron is joined by Marie to share new thoughts and research on how imposter syndrome affects early career mental health workers, how feelings of self-doubt can both hinder and help, how workplace environments play a significant role in fueling imposter syndrome, and what helps to reduce imposter feelings. If you've ever felt like an imposter, this episode is for you! Guest: Marie Vakakis, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (MHSW), and Family & Couples Therapist at The Therapy Hub LINKS "Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome" by Ruchika Tulshyan and Jodi-Ann Burey Research article: "They will discover I’m a fraud!" The Impostor Syndrome Among Psychology Students (2021) (spoiler: 56.15% of study participants experienced high and intense impostor syndrome 😱) Research article: Are You Better Than Me? Competitive Work Climates Fuel Impostorism via Upward Social Comparisons (2025) Marie's original episode on Imposter Syndrome on the Inside Social Work Podcast This Complex Life - Marie's podcast where she delves into the messiness of wellbeing and relationships. Sign-up to Marie's professional development workshops and live events for professionals working with couples, families, and relationships. Connect with Marie on LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and Marie (Mental Health Social Worker) dive into the mailbag and answer listener questions about how to decline seeing clients who aren't a good fit, promoting yourself in a competitive market, and what to do when another mental health professional in your local area muscles in on your niche - are they are your friend or foe? 🤔 We covered a lot of ground in this episode and hope you enjoy the discussion! Guest: Marie Vakakis, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (MHSW), and Family & Couples Therapist at The Therapy Hub LINKS This Complex Life - Marie's podcast where she delves into the messiness of wellbeing and relationships. Inside Social Work Podcast - Marie's podcast taking you behind the scenes of the social work profession. Connect with Marie on LinkedIn THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a quick solo episode with Bron! I chat about why closing my solo private practice after four years was the right decision for me, how I feel after taking a break from clinical work for 6 months, the factors that influence job satisfaction in mental health, and opportunities for growth in non-private roles. LINKS Tim Ballard - Job-Related Predictors of Satisfaction Among Australian Workers THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Anita (newly registered psychologist) to chat about Anita's journey through her internship and early career, exploring topics like psychological safety at work, burnout prevention, and tricky contract clauses such as non-competes and supervision repayments. Anita reflects on how she found the right supervision and workplace, as well as the lessons she has learned along the way. Thank you Anita for your clarity and practical tips on these important topics - early-career listeners will learn a LOT from this episode! 😊 Guest: Anita Knezevic, Psychologist at MindMovers Psychology LINKS Anita's LinkedIn Fair Work Australia FYI: Some professional indemnity/public liability insurer policies for Australian psychologists include 2 hours of free legal advice per year (E.g., Aon)! Check your policy for details. THE END BITS Mental Work is the Australian podcast for early-career mental health workers about working in mental health. Hosted by Psychologist/Researcher Dr 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Danielle Graber to explore a no-nonsense approach to burnout prevention called S.P.A.R.K.S. Danielle shares how her experience during Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns sparked the creation of this method, and together they unpack why traditional self-care often falls short. The conversation redefines what therapist wellness really means, highlights the importance of genuine, sustainable self-care, and shows how practical strategies can improve both clinician wellbeing and client outcomes. Packed with personal stories, actionable tips, and an overview of the SPARKS approach, this episode is essential listening for early-career and experienced mental health professionals alike. Guest: Danielle Graber - Clinical Psychologist, Director of 12 Points Psychology, Animal-Assisted Therapist, Supervisor & Trainer LINKS More about the SPARKS approach to burnout prevention, created by Danielle More professional development opportunities from Danielle (there's A LOT!) Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and Michael (Mental Work podcast editor) unpack the complex and often misunderstood topic of dissociation in children and adolescents. Drawing on Bron’s recent experience as a researcher in this area, they explore what dissociation is, how it shows up in young people, common causes, and why early recognition is so important. They also dive into gaps in research, the lack of youth-specific treatments, and share practical strategies to help clinicians feel more confident when working with dissociation. This is a must-listen for mental health workers wanting to deepen their understanding and improve client care! LINKS Bron's open-access paper on dissociation in adolescents 🥳 The essential book on dissociation in children: "The Child Survivor: Healing Developmental Trauma and Dissociation" by Joyanna Silberg Book: The Handbook of Complex Trauma and Dissociation in Children: Theory, Research, and Clinical Applications (2025) Training on complex trauma and dissociation provided by Arianne Struik Training on dissociation in adults provided by Dr Catherine Hynes 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron is joined by Dr Hayley Kelly for an honest conversation about why therapist visibility matters now more than ever, especially for early-career professionals. Hayley challenges the status quo, calling for innovation in the mental health profession to meet the growing community need for evidence-based expertise and support. She explores why many therapists feel the urge to shrink, and how to break free from staying small. Hayley also shares the story behind her viral social media post that led to her account being removed, and how she continues to show up confidently with an ethics-driven approach to visibility. This episode is packed with insight and inspiration for anyone in the mental health field. Guest: Dr Hayley Kelly - CEO of Therapists Rising, Clinical Psychologist, Mental Health Innovation Strategist, and Speaker LINKS The podcast episode Hayley's viral LinkedIn post was based on: Why "I Can’t Stay Quiet Anymore: What Our Mental Health System Isn’t Ready to Face" Another of Hayley's podcast episodes: How to Stay Visible (Even When You’re Terrified of Being Reported) Hayley's podcast, Therapists Rising 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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 employer, service, or organisation past or present. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bron and Marie (Accredited Mental Health Social Worker) explore how mental health workers can sometimes hold idealised, unrealistic expectations of one another – and how this can lead to surprise or disappointment when we encounter each other’s emotion regulation struggles or interpersonal differences. We discuss the importance of holding realistic expectations, and of meeting our own humanity with humility and ongoing self-reflection. This is a non-judgemental and practical conversation about what we’ve observed and experienced working in mental health. Guest: Marie Vakakis - Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (MHSW), and Family & Couples Therapist at The Therapy Hub LINKS This Complex Life - Marie's podcast where she delves into the messiness of wellbeing and relationships. Inside Social Work Podcast - Marie's podcast taking you behind the scenes of the social work profession. Sign-up to Marie's professional development workshops and live events for professionals working with couples, families, and relationships. Connect with Marie on LinkedIn 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, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email [email protected] Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website CREDITS Producer: Michael English Music: Home 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 and language. 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 unceded Whadjuk Noongar land. Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a clinical or non-clinical 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.