

Therapy Works
Julia Samuel
Bestselling author and psychotherapist, Julia Samuel, invites us into her therapy room as she talks to both known and unknown voices about some of life’s biggest challenges.Therapy Works is full of therapeutic conversations which may contain difficult emotions but those that can paradoxically bring light, in all its form.Listeners will hear what the guests have learnt, failed to learn and how they have grown through their experience. At the end of each episode, Julia reflects on her session with her two psychotherapist daughters who will share their thoughts on the conversation. You’ll quickly discover that not all therapists agree on everything!Follow @juliasamuelmbe
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 26, 2024 • 11min
Agony Aunties: Mastering boundaries
The podcast explores the complexities of boundaries in the context of social media, discussing concerns about vulnerability, listening, and the potential misuse of boundaries. They delve into the importance of boundaries in relationships and therapy, highlighting the need for open conversations, understanding, and empathy. The hosts emphasize the significance of maintaining boundaries in therapy to ensure a healthy therapeutic relationship.

Jan 19, 2024 • 12min
Agony Aunties: Sibling struggles
The Agony Aunties tackle the complex world of sibling relationships, offering insights on dealing with an estranged sibling and the toll of being a scapegoat. They explore self-reflection, reconnection, and establishing healthy boundaries. Personal growth and healing are emphasized amidst the complexities of family dynamics.

Jan 12, 2024 • 12min
Agony Aunties: Navigating divorce and affairs
Join Julia, Emily, and Sophie as they delve deep into the complexities of relationships, focusing on the intricate web of divorce and affairs. With compassionate hearts and keen insights, our Agony Aunties are here to offer guidance and support.The Agony Aunties answer the following questions:"My three kids are 19, 17 and 13 and they regularly ask their dad had an affair. The affair woman is now his wife and their stepmother.""My husband had an affair and he's left the family home. We have two young children. Can you give me tips to build my strength?""I'm weathering divorce and an ex who moved on immediately. How do I rebuild my self-esteem?"As the episode concludes, Julia, Emily, and Sophie reiterate the importance of self-love, open communication, and seeking support during tumultuous times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 5, 2024 • 7min
BONUS: How do I know when it's time to end therapy?
In this special bonus episode of Therapy Works, we tackle a critical question many individuals grapple with: "How do I know when it's time to end therapy?". We navigate the complexities of concluding a therapeutic journey, discussing the nuanced factors that contribute to recognising the right time for transition. We explore scenarios where individuals may feel they've achieved specific goals or addressed particular challenges, as well as moments when unexpected issues arise, prompting a desire for continued therapeutic support. We emphasise the significance of mutual recognition between therapist and client, discussing the gradual reduction of sessions and the importance of fostering open communication throughout this process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 29, 2023 • 9min
BONUS: How can therapy help me?
In this special bonus episode of Therapy Works, we demystify the question, "How can therapy help me?". We underscore that therapy isn't a magic wand but a transformative journey that offers a confidential space to explore patterns, relationships, and life's complexities. Whether navigating destructive relationship patterns or monumental life events, therapy serves as a unique relationship characterised by empathy, trust, and confidentiality.Highlighting the multifaceted benefits of therapy, we discuss its relevance across different stages of life and emphasise its distinct role in providing personalised support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 22, 2023 • 21min
BONUS: A guide to navigating Christmas
In this special bonus episode, Julia and Emily offer listeners insightful strategies for navigating the complexities of Christmas. The discussion covers a range of topics, including gracefully handling awkward questions from family members, embracing the experience of spending Christmas alone, and managing the overwhelming pressures that often accompany this festive period. Julia and Emily provide practical advice on setting boundaries, fostering self-care, and cultivating meaningful connections, whether with family or within oneself. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating peaceful moments amidst the holiday chaos.This episode aims to empower listeners with the tools and understanding needed to navigate the emotional landscape of the festive season, fostering resilience and well-being in the midst of family gatherings, solitude, and societal pressures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 20, 2023 • 1h 2min
Alain de Botton’s insights on psychotherapy, love and navigating Christmas
To mark the end of a wonderful series, I am joined by the insightful Alain de Botton, an author, respected philosopher and founder of The School of Life. Get ready for a journey through the history of psychotherapy, the nuances of the true and false self, and the power of the inner child.In this episode, we discuss: The Gift of the Modern Age: Unveiling the History of PsychotherapyWe explore the evolution of psychotherapy as a novel concept in the modern age, delving into its transformative power as both an idea and a treatment.The Annoying Power of the Inner ChildWe unpack the concept of the inner child and its significant influence on adult behaviour, and our desire for 'the tender heart of a small child and the wisdom of an old man.'Navigating the Layers of IdentityWe engage in a thoughtful discussion on the duality of the true and false self, examining the impact of understanding these layers on personal growth and authenticity.The Senses as Gateways to Emotion: Art as the Conduit to SelfWe explore how the senses shape emotions, both positively and negatively, uncovering the profound connection between art and the journey of self-discovery.A Unique Perspective on BreakdownsGain insights into the concept of 'mental reversals' and their influence on mental health, receiving original perspectives on coping with breakdowns and the potential benefits they might offer.Love and Self-SabotageWe delve into the complexities of love and the common tendency to sabotage our deepest desires, exploring strategies to overcome self-destructive patterns when it comes to love.Navigating the Challenges of ChristmasAlain ends the conversation with practical perspectives on navigating the challenges presented by the festive season.Bamford are inviting listeners of the podcast an exclusive 15% off all spa bookings until the end of December. To book your treatment at their wellness spas in London or the Cotswolds phone quoting ‘THERAPY WORKS’ to receive your exclusive discount or online at bamford.com. The code THERAPYWORKS is valid on all spa bookings.Find Alain: Website: https://www.alaindebotton.com/Buy Alain's new book, A Therapeutic Journey: Lessons from the School of Life: https://amzn.eu/d/8bfHmqBThe School of Life: https://www.theschooloflife.com/Find Julia:Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/Instagram: @juliasamuelmbeProduced by Rutherford Productions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 13, 2023 • 57min
Gabby Logan on her strength beyond sports
Sports and radio presenter Gabby Logan reflects on the link between physical and mental strength, shares insights into discipline and commitment, discusses the transformative journey of grief, explores generational perspectives on trauma, emphasizes the complexities of marriage and the ongoing practice of love, and touches on the importance of humor and lightness despite serious themes.

Dec 6, 2023 • 1h 1min
Lesley on the impact of unearthing family secrets
Lesley, a guest on the podcast, shares her experience of discovering her true identity through a DNA test. Topics discussed include the impact of how bad news is delivered, the complexities of family secrets, reconfiguring identity, managing unanswered questions, navigating the search for new family, nature vs. nurture, and supportive communities.

Nov 29, 2023 • 1h 6min
Lorraine Candy on unravelling, menopause, and the power of identity
Former Editor of Elle, Cosmopolitan, and Style Magazine, Lorraine Candy, opens up about the challenges of mid-life unravelling and navigating menopause. The episode sheds light on the importance of accurate information about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and the alarming statistics linking hormone imbalances to mental health challenges. Lorraine also discusses the role of identity in navigating change, embracing adaptability, and the significance of slowing down and making space for exploration.