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!

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271 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes271

Newest first

Feb 7, 2025 · 16 min
A Personal Update: One Year Since the Accident
In this deeply personal episode, Julia opens up about the year following her devastating skiing accident—a journey marked by a broken shoulder, multiple surgeries, and the onset of Ramsay Hunt syndrome. She candidly shares the physical and emotional toll of her recovery, from the lasting effects on her face to the daily challenges of living with pain and physical limitations. Through honesty and vulnerability, Julia reflects on the lessons of resilience, humility, and acceptance that have emerged from this experience. She expresses gratitude for the support she has received while also acknowledging the frustration of navigating ongoing setbacks. This conversation offers a powerful insight into the psychological impact of injury, the unpredictability of healing, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan 17, 2025 · 14 min
Agony Aunties on Reconnecting with an Estranged Family Member
In this heartfelt episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a listener considering whether to reconnect with their estranged father after years of no contact. Inspired by New Year reflections, the listener navigates the emotional weight of this potential decision. The Agony Aunties explore the complexities of family dynamics, discussing how to manage expectations, understand personal motivations, and protect one’s emotional well-being. They share thoughtful advice, such as seeking therapy, leaning on trusted friends for support, and remembering there is no obligation to reconnect. Whether you’re grappling with similar family challenges or simply seeking insight into navigating tricky relationships, this episode offers compassionate guidance and actionable steps to prioritise self-care. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan 3, 2025 · 11 min
Agony Aunties on Beating New Year Blues and Letting Go of Comparison
In this thoughtful and uplifting episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a listener's heartfelt concerns about feeling behind in life and grappling with self-comparison as the New Year begins. They explore why these feelings are so common and how our tendency to measure ourselves against others can create a false sense of inadequacy. The Agony Aunties share practical advice for approaching the New Year with self-compassion and positivity, encouraging listeners to focus on their personal journeys rather than comparisons. They discuss the power of recognising and challenging critical self-talk, finding small 'glimmers' of positivity in daily life, and setting resolutions that spark joy instead of fostering deprivation. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on starting the year with self-acceptance and meaningful change, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 20, 2024 · 8 min
Agony Aunties on Surviving Christmas Stress
The Agony Aunties are here to help you tackle the highs and lows of the festive season! In this episode, they share practical advice on managing Christmas stress, from handling family tensions to dealing with financial pressures and sky-high expectations. They talk about the power of setting boundaries, planning much-needed time-outs, and having open conversations about presents and plans to ease the strain. The Aunties also highlight the importance of self-care and protecting your mental health during this busy time. With tips like envisioning positive interactions and staying flexible with family traditions, they offer realistic ways to keep the season joyful. Don’t forget—you can check out past AA episodes for even more guidance on navigating holiday challenges! If you're looking for more support this Christmas, please find one of our older episodes about navigating Christmas stress here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/bonus-a-guide-to-navigating-christmas/id1646616622?i=1000639395275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 18, 2024 · 51 min
EXPERT EPISODE: Dr. Claire Plumbly’s Tools for Managing Burnout this Christmas
In this expert episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Claire Plumbly, the author of Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You, delves into the complexities of the autonomic nervous system and explores how it plays a critical role in managing stress and trauma. Using the polyvagal theory by Stephen Porges, she explains how the nervous system is impacted by these experiences and offers practical tools for prevention and healing. The conversation also focuses on key strategies for managing burnout, particularly during emotionally charged times such as the Christmas season. Dr. Plumbly highlights the significance of self-compassion and compassion for others, offering actionable techniques to regulate emotions, navigate grief and loss, and approach family conflicts with understanding. This episode provides valuable psychoeducation and advice, empowering listeners to maintain their mental and physical well-being during the holiday season and beyond. Read Claire's book: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/burnout-book Claire's website: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 13, 2024 · 11 min
Agony Aunties on Embracing Confidence and Self-Worth as We Age
In this episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a listener grappling with self-esteem and confidence as they navigate the changes that come with ageing. They share candid reflections on their own experiences, including the challenges of feeling less visible and the impact this can have on self-worth. The discussion explores how ageing can be both a loss and an opportunity to cultivate new strengths, roles, and sources of confidence. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing body positivity, redefining personal power in later years, and finding joy in the wisdom and resilience that come with age. With empathy and insight, the Agony Aunties offer practical advice on how to balance the grief of lost youth with the cultivation of new possibilities, reminding listeners of the value in supporting one another through life’s transitions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 11, 2024 · 1 hr 4 min
Miranda Hart on Chronic Illness and Finding Authenticity
In this episode, Miranda Hart opens up about living with chronic illness and the profound life changes it brought. She shares how a long-term, debilitating condition led her into solitude, challenging her to reassess her identity beyond societal expectations. Miranda reflects on her evolving relationship with vulnerability—once misunderstood as a performance but now embraced as a path to self-awareness and emotional growth. She delves into the cultural and personal challenges of admitting needs and setting boundaries, shaped by her upbringing and career demands, and how she found strength through self-compassion and authenticity. Miranda discusses insights from her book, I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest with You, which captures her path toward joy, connection, and a more meaningful life. Together, they unpack the healing power of understanding our needs, seeking help, and embracing vulnerability as a foundation for personal growth. This is an inspiring episode for anyone navigating challenges and seeking a deeper connection with themselves. Buy Miranda's Book: https://amzn.eu/d/fpMrzng Follow Miranda: @realmirandahart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 6, 2024 · 14 min
Agony Aunties on Finding Hope When Dating Feels Impossible
In this episode, we respond to a listener’s heartfelt question about why dating feels so difficult, especially in the world of apps. Together, the Agony Aunties explore the emotional challenges of modern dating—the repetitive swiping, the emotional labour involved, and the way dating platforms are designed to keep users engaged rather than help them find lasting connections. Emily shares her own experiences with loneliness and offers advice on embracing being single, focusing on self-worth and finding joy within. We also discuss the concept of 'active hope'—taking small, proactive steps to build resilience and personal happiness, regardless of relationship status. Finally, Sophie reflects on the reality that even in relationships, new challenges emerge, proving that every stage of life has its complexities. This episode is a reminder that while dating can be tough, focusing on your own well-being can make all the difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dec 4, 2024 · 56 min
Mimi Shojai on Re-Evaluating What Matters Most After Her Mother's Death
In this episode, Mimi opens up about the sudden loss of her mother at the age of 27. As an only child living in New York and emotionally distant from her family, Mimi’s world was upended when her mother, while visiting family in Stockholm, suffered a fatal heart attack. This devastating event forced Mimi to re-evaluate her priorities and self-identity, leading her to move back to London to live with her father. Mimi reflects on her regrets about not spending more time with her mother, the cultural differences that shaped her family dynamics, and her ongoing journey toward self-compassion and emotional growth. She shares how this experience has brought her closer to her father and allowed her to find a deeper connection to her late mother. Throughout the conversation, Mimi emphasises the importance of living authentically, connecting with one’s roots, and finding strength in empathy and community support while navigating grief. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 29, 2024 · 9 min
Agony Aunties on How To Support Family Through Addiction
In this heartfelt episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a listener navigating a complex family dynamic. The listener shares their story of a nine-year relationship filled with love and joy alongside their three-year-old son, but also the weight of familial troubles. From addiction to parental separation and childhood trauma in their partner's family, these challenges raise questions about how to balance compassion with personal well-being. The Aunties offer thoughtful advice on how to approach these sensitive issues. They discuss the importance of open communication with the partner, understanding your own emotional limits, and seeking professional support through therapy. They explore strategies for breaking unhealthy family patterns, building emotional intelligence, and prioritising the child’s stability and happiness. This episode is a compassionate guide for anyone grappling with similar challenges, offering both practical steps and reassurance for finding balance amidst complexity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 27, 2024 · 1 hr 9 min
Tony Adams on Addiction, Therapy and Giving Back
In this heartfelt episode, Julia sits down with former footballer Tony Adams to explore his extraordinary journey through addiction, recovery, and personal growth. Tony reflects on his challenging childhood, marked by fear and loneliness, and how football became his escape. He shares candid insights into his struggles with addiction, recounting the pivotal moments that led to his ‘rock bottom’ and the transformative support he found through AA and his therapist, James West. Tony discusses the power of therapy, the importance of vulnerability, and the role of trust in his recovery, offering a deeply personal perspective on overcoming life’s hardest challenges. Now sober since 1996, Tony has dedicated himself to helping others through Sporting Chance, the charity he founded to support athletes with addiction and mental health issues. He reflects on how recovery has reshaped his relationships, particularly with his children and grandchildren, and shares the life lessons he’s learned about accountability, letting go, and finding purpose. Tune in to hear Tony’s inspiring story of redemption and the life lessons he’s learned along the way. Episode Highlights: 00:54 Challenges and Family Background 02:25 Childhood Fears and Escaping to Football 07:19 Struggles with Addiction and Recovery 16:04 Rock Bottom and Turning Point 20:44 The Role of Therapy and Support 26:03 Existential Therapy and Self-Discovery 26:41 The 12-Step Program Journey 29:04 Facing Fears and Addiction 31:58 Sporting Chance and Mental Health Advocacy 45:17 Grieving and Letting Go 48:33 Reflections on Life and Legacy Find Tony: Twitter: @TonyAdams Instagram: @tonyadamsofficial Visit Sporting Chance’s website to discover more about their work supporting athletes with addiction and mental health challenges. If you’d like to connect, follow me on Instagram @juliasamuelmbe. And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 22, 2024 · 15 min
Agony Aunties on Finding Your Path in a Difficult Relationship
A person seeks advice from the Agony Aunties about dealing with a husband who regularly expresses frustration, anger, and suicidal threats, which affects the whole family. They emphasise understanding one's own limits and seeking support, discussing concepts like codependency and the importance of self-care. They suggest looking into resources like support groups, while maintaining open communication with the children and considering the impact on their well-being. They recommend resources such as CoDA.org and the book 'Codependent No More' by Melody Beattie, while also addressing the complexities of maintaining relationships amidst conflict. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 20, 2024 · 1 hr 8 min
Zoe on Navigating Life's Struggles After Her Ex Husband's Imprisonment
In this deeply moving episode, Zoe opens up about her journey following the imprisonment of her ex-husband, sentenced to nine years. She candidly shares how this life-altering event has impacted her and her two children, as they navigate the emotional turbulence, grief, and stigma that accompany such a profound upheaval. Zoe reflects on her children’s varied emotional responses, her personal challenges in setting boundaries, and the toll on her mental health. She also explores her complicated feelings towards her ex-husband and the difficulties of maintaining connections through the prison system. Throughout the conversation, Zoe emphasises the crucial role of support systems—therapy, faith, and structured routines—in finding stability amidst chaos. Julia also highlights the importance of allowing space for joy and fun, even in the most stressful times, as part of the journey toward healing. This conversation offers a deep exploration of multi-dimensional grief, the need to adapt to new ways of living, and the powerful resilience required to rebuild and move forward. Support Resources: Children Heard and Seen Sesame Street - Little Kids, Big Challenges Storybook Dads Barnardo's If you’d like to connect, follow me on Instagram @juliasamuelmbe. And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 17, 2024 · 11 min
Agony Aunties on Supporting Your Child Through Friendship Challenges
In this episode, the Agony Aunties respond to a parent’s question on supporting their child through the grief of not having friendships and dealing with the discrepancy between parental expectations and reality. They discuss the emotional difficulties parents face when their children struggle socially, the importance of acknowledging and validating both the parent's and child's feelings, and practical strategies to help the child find social connections. They emphasise the significance of resilience, finding alternative environments for belonging, and role modelling healthy relationships within the family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 13, 2024 · 1 hr
Sophie Ellis-Bextor on Juggling Music and Motherhood
In this heartwarming episode, Sophie Ellis-Bextor opens up about her diverse roles as a musician, songwriter, podcaster, and mother of five boys. She delves into how music has been a constant, deeply personal passion since childhood, likening its impact to a time portal connecting her with her past selves. The conversation explores her early career highs and lows, her pragmatic and resilient approach to life's challenges, and the importance she places on family and close relationships. Sophie also reflects on how motherhood has influenced her work and vice versa, her structured approach to juggling professional and personal life, and her recent experiences rejuvenating her music career. Sophie also discusses the importance of surrounding oneself with good people, and the wisdom she's gained along the way. Don't miss this candid conversation filled with honesty, joy, and inspiration. 00:35 The Power of Music 03:52 Facing Challenges and Overcoming Adversity 05:32 Early Career and Lessons Learned 07:46 Family Life and Parenting 12:04 Balancing Fame and Core Values 15:18 Navigating Work and Motherhood 21:19 Unexpected Success and Future Plans 23:45 Unpredictable Work and Family Life 24:27 School Closures and Bedroom Changes 25:15 Managing Parental Expectations 25:39 A Call from Elton John 26:45 Balancing Work and Family 27:53 The Joy of Performing 32:41 The Challenge of Engaging Crowds 36:17 Maintaining Perspective and Humility 39:46 The Importance of Friendships 41:02 Wisdom and Reflections Find Sophie: Instagram: @sophieellisbextor Podcast: You can listen to her podcast, Spinning Plates, where she interviews inspiring women about balancing work and family on platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Music: Stream her music on Spotify and YouTube. If you’d like to connect, follow me on Instagram @juliasamuelmbe. And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 10, 2024 · 9 min
Agony Aunties on Rediscovering Sexuality
A listener inquires about reclaiming their sexual self after dedicated years as a single parent of adopted children. The Agony Aunties provide reassuring advice, emphasising that it is never too late. They recommend starting with self-exploration, grieving past losses, and giving oneself permission to pursue sexual pleasure. Several resources are suggested, including the Savage Love cast and books like 'Come As You Are' by Dr. Emily Nogoski and 'Naked at Our Age' by Joan Price. They also suggest engaging in activities that stimulate erotic energy and emphasise self-worth. Link to Maya Angelou's poem 'Phenomenal Woman’: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/48985/phenomenal-woman If you’d like to connect, I post regularly on Instagram, with more thoughts and some Monday Top Tips. Follow me on @juliasamuelmbe.And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 6, 2024 · 55 min
Jenny Gibbs on Having the Courage to Embrace Change After an Accident
In this heartfelt episode, psychotherapist Jenny Gibbs shares her deeply personal story of a life-changing accident just months before her wedding. She recounts her experiences with pain, both physical and psychological, and describes the long journey towards accepting her new reality. Jenny talks about the support systems that helped her, including her work as a therapist, her family, and a significant therapeutic somatic experience. She also reflects on the impact of her accident on her personal relationships and career, ultimately finding meaning and acceptance in her changed circumstances. 01:19 The Life-Changing Accident 03:13 Coping with Disfigurement and Isolation 06:25 The Journey to Acceptance 08:36 The Role of Therapy and Support 10:13 Reflections on Relationships and Identity 13:34 The Healing Process and Moving Forward 20:24 Lessons Learned and Future Outlook 32:42 Embracing Imperfections and Finding Beauty 33:28 The Power of Connection and Loneliness 35:12 Navigating Trauma and Personal Growth 42:16 The Role of Therapy and Emotional Release 45:03 The Impact of Compliments and Praise 48:56 Coping with Public Spaces and Vulnerability 58:32 Reflections on Personal Change and Relationships 01:06:33 The Importance of Acceptance and Moving Forward If you’d like to connect, I post regularly on Instagram, with more thoughts and some Monday Top Tips. Follow me on @juliasamuelmbe.And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nov 1, 2024 · 13 min
Agony Aunties on the Impact of Infidelity on Family Dynamics
A mother seeks advice from the Agony Aunties on whether to tell her 11-year-old daughter about the father's infidelity, which led to their separation. The Agony Aunties recommend that all children should know the same truth to avoid feelings of exclusion and stress. They suggest that the father might take responsibility for explaining his actions, which can be a healing opportunity. The response emphasises the importance of family transparency, co-parenting, and creating a unified, age-appropriate narrative to maintain healthy relationships and trust within the family. Additional Resources: "Parents Who Cheat: How Children and Adults are Affected When Their Parents Are Unfaithful" by Ana Nogales: https://amzn.eu/d/aUbg90h This work extensively explores the impact of parental infidelity on children, including their future relationship dynamics. "The Impact of Infidelity on Children's Psychological Development": https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373345867_The_Impact_of_Infidelity_on_Children's_Psychological_Development Listen to Where Shall We Begin? with Esther Perel: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/where-should-we-begin-with-esther-perel/id1237931798 Follow me on @juliasamuelmbe.And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Wild Nutrition are offering an exclusive limited time offer to Therapy Works’ listeners: 50% off your first 3 months when you visit wildnutrition.com/therapy, that’s wildnutrition.com/therapy for 50% off your first 3 months. T&Cs apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Oct 30, 2024 · 59 min
Sathnam Sanghera on Bridging Conflicting Cultures
In this episode of Hurt to Healing, Julia welcomes author and journalist Sathnam Sanghera for an insightful discussion on mental health, cultural identity, and navigating personal success. Together, they confront the stigma surrounding severe mental illness, highlighting the importance of open conversation and emotional resilience. Sathnam shares his experience balancing the complexities of his cultural heritage with personal identity, offering a candid look at the psychological challenges of reconciling different parts of oneself, especially in high-achieving environments like Cambridge University. They explore the intricate dance between cultural expectations, family dynamics, and the pressures of shifting social classes. With reflections on parental love, protection, and cultural loyalty, Sathnam and Julia delve into the nuanced journey of identity, belonging, and self-discovery. This compelling episode tackles the intersections of mental health, heritage, and the ever-evolving quest for a sense of home and purpose. Find Sathnam: Website: https://www.sathnam.com/ Instagram: @sathnamsanghera Otherwise, if you’d like to connect, I post regularly on Instagram, with more thoughts and some Monday Top Tips. Follow me on @juliasamuelmbe.And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Wild Nutrition are offering an exclusive limited time offer to Therapy Works’ listeners: 50% off your first 3 months when you visit wildnutrition.com/therapy, that’s wildnutrition.com/therapy for 50% off your first 3 months. T&Cs apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Oct 25, 2024 · 12 min
Agony Aunties on Healing Parent-Child Relationships
A concerned parent expresses guilt and regret over their parenting impact on their teenagers and seeks advice on repairing damaged relationships. The discussion covers the importance of acknowledging past mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and making meaningful changes. It emphasises the significance of personal therapy for self-awareness, validating children's experiences, and maintaining ongoing, honest conversations. A key point is distinguishing between seeking forgiveness from children and forgiving oneself to heal. The conversation highlights the potential for positive transformation and the importance of supportive frameworks like therapy. Follow me on @juliasamuelmbe.And for more info, check out my new website: juliasamuel.co.uk. Wild Nutrition are offering an exclusive limited time offer to Therapy Works’ listeners: 50% off your first 3 months when you visit wildnutrition.com/therapy, that’s wildnutrition.com/therapy for 50% off your first 3 months. T&Cs apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices