In the fifth and final of our series of podcasts exploring ways in which we can help members to thrive in psychiatry, we speak to three psychiatrists about their career – what have been their career highlights, what barriers have they faced, and what more are they looking to achieve?Our Presidential lead for Retention and Wellbeing, Dr Ananta Dave,…

In this final part of our joint CAP and GAP conference specials which follows on from a session on climate change, nature, and sustainability in mental health; Dr Matthew Leahy discusses nature-based approaches for children’s mental health with Dr Katherine Kennet, who is a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist with a keen interest in social…

In this podcast we speak to four psychiatrists who have taken a break from work for a range of reasons, and hear their thoughts about what needs to change to help our members thrive. We also hear about the SuppoRTT scheme running in England, to help resident doctors who take a break.द्वारा RCPsych

In the third of our series of podcasts exploring ways in which we can help members to thrive in psychiatry, we hear from four SAS doctors by choice. Dr Noni Kamau, Dr Abdul Oredola, Dr Jessi Kakani and Dr Becky Thomlinson discuss why they love their role, why it works for them, and what's changed for SAS doctors recently. They also talk about what …

In this special episode of Children’s Mental Health: Listen Up!, we take you inside a groundbreaking joint conference that brought together child and adolescent psychiatrists, adult psychiatrists, resident doctors and experts to tackle one of the most important challenges in mental health: supporting young people through mental health service trans…

In the second of our series of podcasts exploring ways in which we can help members to thrive in psychiatry, we're looking at the ways in which employers can create an environment for psychiatrists to feel supported and flourish in their careers. We speak to leaders and psychiatrists at Lancashire and South Cumbria Foundation Trust, where a wide ra…

In the first of a series of podcasts exploring the challenges members face, we discuss what needs to be done to support psychiatrists with carer responsibilities, and to support neurodivergent psychiatrists. We also discuss taking a break and the role of employers, and delve into leadership and why it might be something you should try. The College'…

In this Black History Month edition of our podcast, we gave the mic to the first members from the Aggrey Burke Fellowship participants. They discussed their motivations for joining, memorable experiences, the importance of representation in psychiatry, and the challenges they faced. They reflect on how the fellowship has shaped their perspectives o…

As part of their summer internship at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, 17-year-olds Anisa and Barira took on the challenge of producing their very own podcast episode. Curious about the role of artificial intelligence in mental health, they sat down with Dr Prateek Varshney, a child psychiatrist and medical educator, to explore the promises and …

In this special episode for South Asian Heritage Month, Dr Hassan Mahmood - Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Learning Disability and Autism in Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust - hosts an inspiring conversation with Dr Syeda Zakia Shaherbano - Consultant Psychiatrist specialising in learning disabilities and autism, and Dr Shaheen Sho…

In this special Pride episode of the RCPsych Podcast, we sit down with Dr Bradley Hillier, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director of HumanMind Health. With over two decades of experience in trauma, addiction, and LGBTQ+ mental health, Dr Hillier brings both clinical expertise and personal insight to a conversation that is as urgent as it is o…

In this insightful episode, consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Vic Chapman joins us to explore anorexia nervosa — a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder that affects many young people. Dr Chapman explains the key features of anorexia nervosa, early signs, the psychological and physical impacts, the diagnostic process, and wh…

In this episode, consultant child psychiatrist and NHS England GIRFT Clinical Lead for Children and Young People’s Neurodevelopmental Services, Dr. Holan Liang, discusses how Tourette’s Syndrome presents in children and young people. She provides an in-depth look at the assessment process, evidence-based management strategies, and the complexities …

Dr. Asilay Seker sits down with Professor Kapil Sayal from the University of Nottingham to discuss the STADIA trial (STAndardised DIagnostic Assessment for children and adolescents with emotional difficulties), which he led. This multicentre randomised controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of incorporating a standardised diagnostic assessmen…

In this conversation, Dr Elaine Lockhart speaks with Dr Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, about the critical importance of early intervention in mental health, the impact of social determinants and structural racism on mental health services, and the need for psychiatrists to champion community-based solutions. She stress…

In this New Year special episode, Dr Elaine Lockhart sits down with Baroness Hilary Cass to discuss her pivotal role in chairing the independent review into gender identity services for children and young people. She explores the background and growing need for the review, addressing the rise in referrals, key findings, and her recommendations for …

The conversation explores the evolving understanding of bipolar disorder in children and young people, emphasising the importance of early detection and intervention. Dr Gonzalo Salazar de Pablo discusses the challenges in diagnosing bipolar disorder, particularly the significant delays and the complexities involved in distinguishing it from other …

In this podcast, Dr Adi Sharma discusses bipolar disorder, focusing on its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment approaches, and the challenges faced by adolescents and their families. He emphasises the importance of understanding the condition, the need for effective treatment, and the significance of psychoeducation for families. The conversation also h…

In this conversation, Angela McCrimmon shares her personal journey with bipolar disorder, discussing her diagnosis at a young age, the challenges of treatment, and the importance of supportive healthcare relationships. She emphasises the need for better understanding and communication in mental health care, as well as the significance of reducing s…

In this episode a listener recently ended a relationship with her therapist after she violated her trust. Now she is grieving the loss and wonders if she should go back. We would love to hear from you! You can email or send a voicemail on our website or contact us directly at [email protected]…

In this conversation, Naa Adoley Addo shares her journey from psychiatric training in Ghana to her practice in the NHS. She discusses the rigorous training she underwent, the challenges and rewards of working in the UK, and the cultural differences she encounters in mental health care. Naa also reflects on her achievements as a psychiatrist, the ba…

In this informative episode, child psychiatrist Dr. Jenny Parker provides an in-depth exploration of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), discussing its neurodevelopmental nature, common symptoms, and the effects it can have on children and young people. Dr. Parker explains the process of diagnosing ADHD and examines a range of treatmen…

This podcast, hosted by Drs Elaine Lockhart and Asilay Seker, will focus on ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), a common neurodevelopmental condition affecting children and young people. Prof Samuele Cortese from the University of Southampton will give an update on the latest research in this area. This is followed by an interview with…

Mood States is a collection of sculptures by artist Annabel Merrett. They investigate how emotions, feelings and motivations can be exposed by art.Merrett began this series by constructing self-portrait heads using her own cranial measurements. Cross sections were then cut into heads – in the grand tradition of the anatomists – to plumb the depths …

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Manoj Kumar, the RCPsych South Asian Chair, to discuss the mental health landscape in South Asia, with a focus on India. Dr Kumar shares insights into the region's mental health challenges, cultural attitudes, and systemic barriers to care. We explore innovative solutions, the role of technology, and the importa…

Who is responsible for setting the agenda in a therapy session? Angie wonders if it's really up to her to bring up hard topics with her therapist. Chelsea's therapist (8:48) doesn't ask questions about her life, making her feel like her therapist doesn't care about her. Finally, Claire's therapist (17:31) likes to explore the topics that interest h…

The vice-chair in Scotland, Dr Pavan Srireddy took part in a special podcast for the Public Audit Committee in the Scottish Parliament. Dr Srireddy was joined by convener of the Committee Richard Leonard MSP and Anne Rowan, found of suicide charity, Chris’s House. The group discussed the findings of a recent report into mental health and what shoul…

An open and honest conversation looking at living with schizophrenia. Hosted by Dr Jane Morris, with guest Graham Morgan.Graham has authored the books 'Start' and 'Blackbird Singing'.द्वारा RCPsych

On this episode Karol asks for our opinion on The 5 Love Languages: are they useful or are they harmful? The study we referenced from University of Toronto which summarizes recent attempts at empirically validating the "love languages" can be found here. In part 2 (19:30), a listener feels like her therapist is not on her side and said something hu…

In this episode of the Royal College of Psychiatrists Podcast, host Dr Daniela Borges, a general adult psychiatry registrar and secretary of the Psychiatric Trainees Committee (PTC), delves into the theme of the national trainees conference: "Next Generation in Psychiatry." With insights from key figures like the Dean of RCPysch, Professor Subodh D…

In this bumper episode to mark International Women's Day, our Presidential Leads for Women and Mental Health Dr Philippa Greenfield and Dr Catherine Durkin host a conversation with Dr Amrit Sachar, Joint Presidential Lead for Equity and Equality, and Louise Howard, Professor of Women's Mental Health at Kings College London. The conversation looks o…

Curious about what it takes to contribute to the College's vibrant community? This episode is a must-listen! Join us and Dr. Daniela Borges, a dedicated Psychiatric Trainees' Committee (PTC) Rep, as she shares the motivations behind her College role, keeping the balance between professional and College commitments, and encouraging you to contemplat…

Krystal's therapist would prefer she not use marijuana before a session even though she thinks it would be helpful to loosen her "emotional logjam". Michael (17:02) questions his decision to be a therapist and whether he is actually helping anyone. We discuss possible burnout and steps Michael could consider before making any major career changes. …

On this episode Tess's psychiatrist revealed a shared diagnosis in their final session, making Tess wonder if withholding information is necessary. Lilith's therapist (16:50) visited her at work, leaving her feeling confused, especially since she would like the relationship to be closer. If you have questions or feedback please send a message (voic…

On this episode a listener's therapist hid behind a magazine after they saw each other in public. Yazmin (12:31) wonders if therapy could be helpful for the grief she's experiencing a year after her husband died. The resource about prolonged grief at Columbia University can be found here. A listener (21:20) gave a thank you card to their therapist …

On this episode Yolanda has a question about the moments before and after a therapy session. Lindsay specifically wonders about her preference for the relationship she has with her therapist at this periphery of the therapeutic encounter Jim (18:14) worries that he may be too smart for therapy to work. Marion (25:49) wants to know if it would be we…

In honour of Black History Month, the Royal College of Psychiatrists proudly presents a special episode dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary contributions of black female psychiatrists, and delves deep into the vital issues of racism and equity within the field of psychiatry. Hosted by Dr. Uju Ugochukwu, she is joined Dr. Itai Matumbike and D…

On this episode Amalia is annoyed that her therapist asks for lots of feedback at the end of each session. Kim (12:30) wants to address the "elephant in the room" after her therapist cut off all communication between sessions without an explanation. If you have questions or feedback please send a message (voicemail or email) on our website You can …

On this episode to commemorate World Mental Health Day, Professor Mohammed Al-Uzri, one of the College's Presidential Leads, takes us on a deep dive into his work on the Global Mental Health Strategy.द्वारा RCPsych

The College is celebrating Black History Month by exploring the relationship between Mental Health and the Arts. We've teamed up with author, poet, editor of BJPsych Muses, and psychiatrist, Dr. Dami Ajayi to create a series of content exploring the theme.For this podcast, we're delighted to introduce you to Oluwatunmise Oladapo Kuku, podcaster, li…

On this episode a listener's therapist has started rubbing her back when she's upset and she wonders if this is normal. Then we return to questions about vacation: A listener (9:03) is upset by their therapist's upcoming vacation and is thinking of not going back to the office; Beth's therapist (16:08) just got back from vacation and they're having…

Alice and her husband see the same therapist individually and as a couple. The therapist told Alice's husband they should get a divorce. At (12:43) a 17 year-old listener feels like there are things he can't talk to his therapist about after she disclosed her religious identity. If you have questions or feedback please send a message (voicemail or …

Larissa was nervous during her first online therapy session with Betterhelp and wants some tips on how to be prepared for the next session. She was told the first session "is where the magic begins". An anonymous listener (16:57) has a history of stalking their therapist and has the desire to repeat those behaviors with a new therapist. They feel a…

In this podcast to celebrate Pride 2023 we speak to Dr Chris Walsh, Chair of the College's Psychiatric Trainees Committee to discuss his journey from Liverpool to Psychiatry, his creative background, and his advice to LGBTQ+ folks looking to choose psychiatry as a career.Note this is an updated version of the podcast which was reuploaded to correct…

Danny has mixed emotions about Father's Day. He's trying to balance his needs with the demands of parenting and wants to hear more about fatherhood. He's also curious if being psychiatrists changes our views on parenting. Michelle (34:30) is a newly minted therapist and has questions about the role of transference and countertransference in our ses…

Therese's feelings have been hurt by her therapist but she feels invalidated each time she brings it up. Candice (15:51) feels ashamed of being in therapy and wants to be more comfortable with the idea of talking to others about it. Lila (30:40) wonders about Oprah's advice to be your own best friend. David guesses these sentiments come out of the …

During Mental Health Awareness Week the College is raising awareness of the challenges people with serious mental illnesses, or SMIs, face, Rehabilitation psychiatry plays a crucial role in helping individuals with serious mental illnesses to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. In this podcast we hear from Dr Katie Fergus, an ex…

We have 3 listener questions. In the first question Keith wants to know how therapists determine whether a session is good or bad. Then Ellen (11:35) tries to make sense of her reaction after her therapist names something in her past as abuse. Finally, Jane (17:42) was frozen at the end of her last therapy session and wonders if it's worth going ba…

In the first question a listener wonders why her therapist is talking about her in supervision. She's curious about what supervision is and how therapists make use of it. In the second question (23:47) a listener is concerned that she feels jealous about the client her therapist is seeing before her. Abby expresses outrage on the listener's behalf …

In the first question a listener feels slighted by her therapist's cancellation policy. We start by discussing these policies more generally. It's a little dry but the discussion gets better by 12:25 when we talk about our listener's specific situation. In the second question (17:50), someone's therapist has suggested increasing the frequency of th…