Counselling Tutor podcast

The Counselling Tutor podcast serves student counsellors and psychotherapists in training. Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly examine the theory and practice of counselling and deliver academic content in an easy to understand and fun podcast. Students of Person Centred counselling, Transactional Analysis and behavioural models such as CBT will find something relevant to their studies on the Counselling Tutor Podcast.

344 - Ethical Use of AI in Therapy 06/28/2025

344 - Ethical Use of AI in Therapy In Episode 344 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the ethical use of AI in therapy, highlighting potential risks and ethical responsibilities. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Caroline Evers Endicott about her lecture Introducing Therapy for Addiction - a vital area of practice that’s often underrepresented in core training. And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how learning never stops in counselling - and why planning your CPD is essential as you qualify and build your therapeutic career. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/37175615

343 - Why Have an Online and Telephone Informed Supervisor? 06/21/2025

343 - Why Have an Online and Telephone Informed Supervisor? In Episode 343 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, they explore the importance of having an online and telephone informed supervisor when you work in this way. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sarah Henry about her concept of race and everyday friction - how these subtle, often hidden experiences shape identity and create barriers in life and therapy. And finally in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the significance of ending well in counselling training - how to navigate goodbyes with your peers and why these endings matter in your development. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/37097010

342 - The Art of Apologising as a Counsellor 06/14/2025

342 - The Art of Apologising as a Counsellor In Episode 342 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the art of apologising as a counsellor - why it matters, how to do it effectively, and how to avoid making it about yourself. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Ruth Birkbeck about a powerful and often unspoken topic: shame in supervision. We explore what it looks like, how it can impact both supervision and client work, and what can be done to repair it. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at how you can make the most of your academic break with creative learning - offering tips for staying engaged without overwhelming yourself or contaminating your core training. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/37009745

341: Everyday Trauma 06/07/2025

341: Everyday Trauma In Episode 341 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the concept of everyday trauma. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ellie Finch and Dr. Jo Griffin about their CPD lecture, which focuses on working with parents of children with disabilities, complex medical conditions, and special educational needs. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss what to do if you don’t get accepted onto the next stage of your counselling training, offering support and strategies for staying motivated. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36830460

340 - Can Clients Ask You to Delete Their Data? 05/24/2025

340 - Can Clients Ask You to Delete Their Data? In Episode 340 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the question: Can clients ask you to delete their data? - covering legal, ethical, and practical considerations. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Jeremy Sachs about supporting male survivors of sexual abuse, with a focus on the intersectional challenges they face and practical considerations for therapists. And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explain and simplify Carl Rogers' Seven Stages of Process, highlighting how this core theory maps client growth in therapy. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36687215

339 - Dual Relationships in Counselling and Psychotherapy 05/17/2025

339 - Dual Relationships in Counselling and Psychotherapy In Episode 339 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the potential dangers of dual relationships in counselling and psychotherapy – how they arise, the ethical implications, and strategies to manage them appropriately. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally Anne Armitage about her lecture on practicing good self-care – a vital skill for therapists at every stage of their careers. And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken reflect on the importance of defining and understanding your personal counselling philosophy as a student and practitioner. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36589730

338 - Supporting Suicidal Clients 05/10/2025

338 - Supporting Suicidal Clients In Episode 338 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the essential and sensitive topic of supporting suicidal clients – discussing how therapists can respond ethically and effectively, including risk assessment and safety planning. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ruth Hill about her lecture on REBT for pain management and exercise – blending cognitive therapy with physical wellbeing to support client recovery. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of receiving and using counselling skills feedback – helping you get the most from peer observations and strengthen your skills in training. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36509310

337 – Talking to Children About Death 05/03/2025

337 – Talking to Children About Death In Episode 337 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore how to talk to children about death - covering developmental understanding, appropriate language, and how to support children through bereavement. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Catherine Knibbs about changes in Apple’s encryption policy and what this means for therapists in terms of data protection and confidentiality. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how to respond when a client does not attend a session, particularly while you’re on placement. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36410265

336 - Building your Counselling CV 04/26/2025

336 - Building your Counselling CV In Episode 336 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at building your counselling CV – including key features to include, ways to stand out, and how to present yourself professionally. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Nicola Durrant about working with clients who have Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) – a profile on the autism spectrum that requires a unique and flexible therapeutic approach. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at how to review a client’s progress in therapy – and why it’s an important part of ethical and effective practice. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36312705

335 - Extra-Therapeutic Factors in Supervision 04/19/2025

335 - Extra-Therapeutic Factors in Supervision In Episode 335 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at extra-therapeutic factors in Supervision and how a client’s world outside the therapy room can influence outcomes. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews James Hawes, author of The Secret Lives of Men, exploring how we can better understand and support male clients in therapy. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about how to begin a counselling session, and what to say in those crucial opening moments. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36152385

Understanding Website Design for Therapists with Daragh McLaughlin 04/05/2025

Understanding Website Design for Therapists with Daragh McLaughlin In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Daragh McLaughlin from Web Healer, a company specialising in website design for therapists, about how to create a reliable, professional online presence. Daragh shares his expert advice on avoiding common pitfalls when managing a website and digital assets. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/36004735

334 – Managing Triggers and Flashbacks 03/29/2025

334 – Managing Triggers and Flashbacks In Episode 334 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at managing triggers and flashbacks—offering insights into how counsellors can support clients dealing with trauma responses. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Antje Bothin about her book Annika and the Treasure of Iceland and how it helps give a deeper understanding of selective mutism. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the ideal client load for student counsellors, offering guidance on balancing client hours in placement while maintaining self-care. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35902245

333 - Dunning-Kruger Effect in Trauma-Informed Therapy 03/22/2025

333 - Dunning-Kruger Effect in Trauma-Informed Therapy In Episode 333 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly, take us through this week’s three key topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’ we look at understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect in trauma-informed therapy and how it can impact professional competence. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews an autistic therapist who has chosen to stay anonymous to allow for an open and honest conversation. This discussion is about their lived experience and insights into neurodivergence in the profession. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at the importance of referencing in assignments, avoiding common pitfalls, and using digital tools to ensure accuracy. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35808155

332 - Developing an Online Mindset 03/15/2025

332 - Developing an Online Mindset In Episode 332 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide you through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at developing an online mindset to effectively work with clients online. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Richard Miller, a counsellor, supervisor, and AI ethicist, about the ethical use of AI in therapy, its possibilities, challenges, and implications. Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss comparing ethical frameworks and why it’s an important exercise in counselling training. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35707305

331 – Ethical Dilemmas in Supervision 03/08/2025

331 – Ethical Dilemmas in Supervision In Episode 331 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore ethical dilemmas in supervision and discuss strategies for resolving them effectively. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dorothy Hodgkinson about working with clients who have ‘life-restricting’ conditions and how these conditions impact the therapeutic relationship. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of challenging stereotypes in counselling training, offering insights into how counsellors can avoid stereotyping clients in their practice. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35557150

330 - Working with Clients Abroad 03/01/2025

330 - Working with Clients Abroad In Episode 330 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the challenges and considerations of offering online therapy to clients abroad, particularly focusing on legal, ethical, and practical concerns. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lohani Noor about the importance of psychosexual therapy and how therapists can gain the skills to support clients navigating intimate issues. Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken provide practical advice for counselling students on meeting course requirements for supervision hours, emphasising the importance of documentation and careful planning. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35478745

329 - Distinguishing PTSD and Complex PTSD 02/22/2025

329 - Distinguishing PTSD and Complex PTSD In Episode 329 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken discuss distinguishing PTSD and Complex PTSD, exploring the evolution of trauma therapy and the importance of understanding physiological responses in trauma-informed practice. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Susie Jamieson about how to navigate client complaints effectively, sharing practical strategies and personal experiences to help therapists be complaint-ready. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about managing overwhelm during observed skills sessions, providing tips for reducing anxiety and building confidence in counselling skills practice. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35374585

Special Edition: Expanding Therapeutic Approaches with NHS Policies 02/15/2025

Special Edition: Expanding Therapeutic Approaches with NHS Policies In this Special Edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Meg Moss from the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) about how NHS policy design could support a wider range of therapeutic approaches. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35282485

328: Professional Letter Writing 02/08/2025

328: Professional Letter Writing In Episode 328 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we delve into professional letter writing by counsellors when communicating with other professionals. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Claire Ratcliffe about relationship therapy using the developmental model, focusing on how couples evolve and how therapists can support growth at each stage. Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how to choose the therapy modality that is the best fit for you as a future therapist. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35188645

327 - 7-eyed Model of Supervision in Clinical Practice 02/01/2025

327 - 7-eyed Model of Supervision in Clinical Practice In Episode 327 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the 7-eyed model of supervision in clinical practice. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Sonja Falck about facilitating personal development (PD) groups and their importance for both trainees and qualified counsellors. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the essential topic of accessing supervision before going into placement and why it's crucial to be well-prepared. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/35094455

326 - Ambiguous Loss 01/25/2025

326 - Ambiguous Loss In Episode 326 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: First up in Ethical, Sustainable Practice: Understanding ambiguous loss, its complexities, and how it presents in therapy. Then in Practice Matters: Rory speaks with Nina Solomons about the innovative use of virtual reality in therapy. Lastly, in Student Services: Rory and Ken discuss a critique of the person-centred model, addressing its strengths and limitations. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34993050

325 - Applying Attachment Theory 01/18/2025

325 - Applying Attachment Theory In Episode 325 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at applying Attachment Theory in therapy, and how understanding attachment styles helps in building a strong therapeutic relationship. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Bernie Wright and Lisa Smith about the connection between eating disorders, disordered eating, and neurodivergence. Lastly, in ‘Student Services, Rory and Ken discuss how counselling students can manage overwhelm and stay motivated through their training journey. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34895035

324 - Regulation of Counselling and Psychotherapy 01/11/2025

324 - Regulation of Counselling and Psychotherapy In Episode 324 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at managing risk in online therapy and the considerations for safe practice. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Meg Moss about the regulation of counselling and psychotherapy. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of contracting in counselling. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34799980

323 - Engaging with Clinical Supervision 01/04/2025

323 - Engaging with Clinical Supervision In Episode 323 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at engaging with clinical supervision and how to get the most from it. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Susie Jamerson in the second part of a three-part series exploring regulation in counselling and psychotherapy. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss powering up your counselling skills through observation. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34707505

322 - Theory of Mind 12/14/2024

322 - Theory of Mind In Episode 322 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we discuss the theory of mind and its implications in neurodivergence. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Anne Guy about the pros and cons of statutory regulation in counselling and psychotherapy. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explore managing dual relationships in counselling. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34428645

321 - Online Counselling for Neurodivergent Clients 12/07/2024

321 - Online Counselling for Neurodivergent Clients In Episode 321 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’ we look at effective online counselling for neurodivergent clients. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Phil Mitchell about part two of his lecture on counselling boys and men. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss managing boundaries in counselling. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34316785

320 - Preparing the Therapeutic Environment 11/30/2024

320 - Preparing the Therapeutic Environment In Episode 320 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken look at preparing the therapeutic environment for autism-friendly care. Then in ‘Practice Matters’ we have part 2 of last week’s interview with Susie Jamieson about her journey navigating the complaints process. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at the skill of challenge in counselling. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34200490

319 - Double Empathy Problem 11/23/2024

319 - Double Empathy Problem In Episode 319 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at understanding the Double Empathy Problem in Neurodivergent Therapy. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, we have the first part of an interview where Rory speaks with Susie Jamieson about her journey navigating the complaints process. And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss developing your inner supervisor. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/34104706

318 - Autism and the Law 11/16/2024

318 - Autism and the Law In Episode 318 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at Autism and the Law Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Caz Binstead about her book Relational Ethics in Psychotherapy and Counselling Private Practice: Solidarity, Compassion, Justice. And lastly in ‘Student Services’ we look at claiming expenses as a placement counsellor. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/33943592

317 - Strengths and Challenges in Autism 11/09/2024

317 - Strengths and Challenges in Autism In Episode 317 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly look at this week’s three topics: Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the different strengths and challenges in autism that individuals may face. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sharon McCormick about how an ethical EAP (Employment Assistant Program) operates and the benefits for both clients and employers. And lastly in ‘Student Services, Rory and Ken discuss closing a skills session. /episode/index/show/counsellingtutor/id/33846172

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