The Essential Role of Parental Self-Care
"It's key to make sure that as a parent, we're okay." - Kayla Tychsen
Summary
The conversation emphasises the critical need for parents to prioritise their own well-being in order to effectively nurture their children. It discusses how neglecting self-care can hinder a parent's ability to provide the love and support their children need.
Takeaways
We're just running on empty, meeting the needs of our children.
If our needs are not being met, we can't show up fully.
It's key to make sure that as a parent, we're okay.
We need to give our children the goodness and healthy parts.
Parental well-being directly impacts child development.
Self-care is not selfish; it's essential for effective parenting.
Mental and physical health are crucial for nurturing children.
Parents should prioritise their own needs alongside their children's.
Healthy parents create a loving environment for their kids.
Nurturing starts with the parent being in a good space.
Kayla Tychsen is an Accredited Parent Coach, a Certified Integrative Trauma Coach, and a
TEDx speaker who is passionate about empowering parents, educators, and caregivers to
cultivate confidence, connection, and joy in their homes and classrooms. With training in
Trauma-Informed Classrooms, Resilience in Children, Social Emotional Learning, and an AMI
Montessori certificate for ages 0-3, Kayla brings a holistic and research-backed approach to her
work.
Kayla's work has spanned the globe, from working in an inner-city classroom in Southern
California, co-founding two elementary schools for refugee populations in Lebanon, to
supporting families around the world with practical, evidence-based solutions. Having navigated
postpartum anxiety, she understands firsthand the challenges of parenting. Her journey fuels her
dedication to helping parents become aware of how their past experiences shape their present
parenting, define and live their values, and foster deep, secure relationships with their children.
Through personalised coaching, engaging workshops, and accessible online resources, she
equips families with the knowledge and tools to create a nurturing environment where children
feel safe and empowered to thrive in today’s world.
Contact: hello@yourconsciousparentcoach.com
Website: www.yourconsciousparentcoach.com
TEDx Talk: www.yourconsciousparentcoach.com/tedx
Connected Parent Course: www.yourconsciousparentcoach.com/parenting_cohort
Instagram: www.instagram.com/yourconsciousparentcoach
Unlocking Your Potential: A Journey with Juliana Damasco
"You need to find your most authentic self. - Juliana Damasco
Summary
In this episode of The Check In With Podcast, host Calvin Anderson welcomes back Juliana Damasco to discuss personal growth, the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, and the role of therapy in self-discovery.
Juliana shares her journey of living abroad, the challenges she faced, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of personal branding.
The conversation also delves into the future of personal branding in the age of AI and the significance of maintaining human connections.
Juliana emphasises the need for authenticity and gratitude in the pursuit of becoming the best version of oneself.
Takeaways
Everything starts on your routine, on your day to day.
Growth comes from suffering, pain, and feeling of failure.
Therapy is essential for mental health and personal growth.
Living abroad teaches humility and adaptability.
Personal branding is about becoming the best version of yourself.
AI will expose our need for human connection.
You need to find your most authentic self to differentiate yourself.
Gratitude is crucial while pursuing personal goals.
Building a community of like-minded individuals is important.
The future of personal branding is about offline connections.
A Journey of Change and Resilience
"We are not alone in this." - Nora Wilhelm
Summary
In this episode, Calvin Anderson interviews Nora Wilhelm, an award-winning change maker and systems innovator.
They discuss Nora's journey from childhood curiosity to global activism, her experiences with burnout, and the importance of community in change work.
Nora shares insights on sustaining impact and mental health, the significance of inner work, and offers advice for emerging change makers.
The conversation emphasises the need for collaboration, self-care, and the understanding that change is a collective effort.
Takeaways
Nora's journey began with a strong sense of justice and curiosity.
Experiencing global issues firsthand can awaken a desire for change.
Daily leadership involves small, consistent actions towards change.
Systems change focuses on addressing root causes rather than symptoms.
Recognition like Forbes 30 Under 30 can enhance legitimacy but doesn't define worth.
Burnout is a common challenge for change workers; self-care is essential.
Community support is crucial for sustaining change work.
Emerging changemakers should not take rejection personally.
Finding joy and nourishment in life is vital for mental health.
Inner work is necessary to align personal values with professional missions.
To get in touch with Nora please use the following:
Profiles Nora
www.norawilhelm.org
www.linkedin.com/in/norawilhelm
https://www.instagram.com/nora.wilhelm/
https://www.facebook.com/nora.m.wilhelm
the well • change atelier profiles
www.changeatelier.org
https://www.instagram.com/thewell.changeatelier/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewellchangeatelier
https://www.pinterest.ch/thewellchangeatelier/
Parayma profiles
www.parayma.co
https://www.linkedin.com/company/parayma
https://www.instagram.com/parayma.co
Current offerings:
Creativity Practices with Nora Wilhelm on Thursdays:
https://www.changeatelier.org/offerings/creativity-practice
Free workshop on Parayma: Purpose 101
https://www.parayma.co/fyp101
Re Source Retreat in the Swiss Mountains: 14-16 November
https://www.parayma.co/resource-retreat
"The word 'no' is a complete sentence." - Sana Kamran
Summary
In this episode, host Calvin Anderson speaks with psychotherapist Sana Kamran about the complex topic of cousin marriages within South Asian communities. They explore the cultural and historical context, the impact of intergenerational trauma, and the psychological effects of family pressure on individuals.
The conversation also addresses the stigma surrounding cousin marriages, the health risks involved, and the challenges faced by those who wish to break away from traditional norms.
Throughout the discussion, the importance of personal choice and accountability is emphasized, highlighting the need for greater awareness and understanding of these issues. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities surrounding cousin marriages, accountability, and the impact of cultural expectations on personal choices.
They explore the challenges of navigating familial pressures, the importance of recognising abuse, and the need for individuals to reclaim their agency in the face of generational trauma.
The discussion emphasises the role of therapy in helping individuals understand their feelings and make informed decisions, while also addressing the broader societal implications of these issues.
Takeaways
Cousin marriages are deeply rooted in South Asian culture.
Trust issues and trauma influence the practice of cousin marriages.
Generational perspectives on cousin marriages are changing due to social media.
Health risks associated with cousin marriages are often overlooked.
Family pressure can lead to significant psychological distress.
Stigma surrounding cousin marriages can both hinder and help awareness.
Breaking cultural norms can result in emotional blackmail.
Accountability for personal choices is essential in marriage decisions.
Cultural practices can perpetuate psychological damage.
Awareness and education are crucial for informed choices. Accountability is often avoided due to fear of honesty.
Cousin marriages can lead to significant emotional challenges.
Therapy can help individuals navigate familial pressures.
Abuse in forced marriages is often normalized and overlooked.
Generational trauma can perpetuate cycles of harm.
Trust issues arise when caregivers fail to protect their children.
Individuals have the right to choose their paths in life.
Cultural obligations should not come at the cost of personal happiness.
Therapy is a valuable tool for decision-making and self-discovery.
Asking 'What do you need?' can empower individuals to reflect.
To contact Sana please use the following:
https://www.instagram.com/innatecounselling?igsh=MThueW1nODA2c3NnMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
https://www.instagram.com/in_the_wake_of_healing?igsh=c3VoaDMxa29wemw5&utm_source=qr
Disclaimer:
This episode includes a discussion about first cousin marriages within the South Asian community.
The views expressed are those of the host and our guest, who is a licensed therapist, and are intended for educational and awareness purposes only.
They do not constitute professional or therapeutic advice.We acknowledge that this topic can be deeply personal and may carry cultural, religious, and familial significance.
Our intention is to create space for open and respectful conversation not to pass judgment or promote any particular viewpoint.
Listener discretion is advised, especially if this topic may be sensitive or triggering for you.I'm going to put this within the episode.
Navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age
"You can create your own peace." - Dr. Sanghita Polley, MBA
Summary
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Sanghita Polley shares her journey from being a dentist to a mindfulness coach, emphasising the importance of mental health in the digital age.
She discusses the impact of technology on our attention spans, the rise of virtual relationships, and the psychological effects of notifications.
Dr. Polley also addresses the issue of self-worth in the context of social media, offering practical tips for cultivating internal validation and mindfulness in a hyper-connected world.
Takeaways
The digital age has increased anxiety and disrupted mental health.
Mindfulness is essential for maintaining focus and clarity.
Multitasking is a myth; it reduces productivity and increases stress.
Digital hygiene is crucial for mental well-being.
Virtual relationships can feel hollow without real emotional presence.
Notifications create a constant state of distraction and anxiety.
Self-worth should not be tied to social media validation.
Mindfulness practices can help reclaim our attention and peace.
Setting boundaries with technology is vital for mental health.
Gratitude and self-acceptance are key to true self-worth.
Protecting What Matters: A Cybersecurity Conversation
"Your business is worth protecting."
Summary
In this episode, Calvin Anderson speaks with Katie Shanahan, founder of YourCyberCoach, about the critical importance of cybersecurity and GDPR for businesses, particularly for self-employed mental health practitioners.
They discuss the emotional and mental toll of cybersecurity breaches, the necessity of a people-first approach, and the role of trust in business.
Katie emphasizes that protecting what matters is not just a technical issue but a fundamental business philosophy that can lead to growth and opportunity.
The conversation also covers practical steps for improving cybersecurity and the importance of mental wellbeing for business owners.
Takeaways
Trust is a valuable asset for businesses.
Cybersecurity should be approached from a people-first perspective.
Mental health practitioners face unique challenges in data protection.
The emotional toll of cybersecurity incidents can be significant.
It's important to create a psychologically safe environment in businesses.
GDPR is about protecting fundamental rights.
Small businesses are often targeted for cyber attacks.
Protecting what matters involves prioritizing key data and relationships.
Simple steps can significantly improve cybersecurity.
You don't have to navigate cybersecurity alone.
"Nothing can beat the human connection." - George Stevens
Summary
In this episode, host Calvin Anderson speaks with George Stevens, a trainee counsellor and founder of Soother, a workplace mental wellbeing company.
They discuss George's journey into therapy, the surprising aspects of his training, and the gaps in mental health support that Soother aims to fill.
The conversation explores the importance of access and quality in therapy, the impact of Soother on George's personal wellbeing, and the future of therapy in relation to technology.
George emphasises the significance of human connection in therapy and encourages those unsure about seeking help to explore their options.
Takeaways
George Stevens is a trainee counsellor and founder of Soother.
Soother aims to improve access to mental health support.
George's journey into therapy was driven by a passion for helping people.
Training in counseling involves significant self-discovery.
Access to therapy is a major issue, with many on waiting lists.
Quality of therapy must be maintained while increasing access.
The future of therapy is optimistic, with more people seeking help.
Human connection is irreplaceable in the therapeutic process.
Technology can aid therapy but should not replace human therapists.
People should feel empowered to choose their therapy path.
"Awareness is the freedom to life." - Dr. Shannon Daneshrad
Summary
In this episode of the Check In with Podcast, host Calvin Anderson speaks with Dr. Shannon Daneshrad, a licensed psychologist with extensive experience in individual, couple, and family therapy.
Dr. D discusses her journey into therapy, the dynamics of individual versus couples therapy, the importance of self-awareness, and the impact of attachment styles on relationships.
She emphasises the need for continuous learning in the field of psychology and offers valuable advice for aspiring therapists. The conversation also touches on the significance of understanding emotional needs in relationships and the therapeutic modalities that can enhance couple's therapy.
Takeaways
Dr. Shannon Daneshrad has a diverse background in therapy.
Therapists learn from their clients as much as they teach.
Self-awareness is crucial for personal growth and therapy.
Understanding attachment styles can improve relationship dynamics.
Healthy relationships require understanding and meeting emotional needs.
Therapists should maintain a balance between personal and professional life.
Continuous learning is essential for effective therapy practice.
Individual therapy can complement couples therapy for better outcomes.
Emotional security is vital for expressing one's true self.
Sensitivity can be a strength in therapeutic settings.
To get in touch with Dr. Shannon Daneshrad please use the following
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/century-psychology-group
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7lbtlK_TmRuEHcE2r8Rs_Q
Healing Through Trauma/Understanding Trauma Bonds and Their Impact : A Conversation with Sieera Ismail
"Love in your pain."
In this episode of the Check-In With Podcast, host Calvin Anderson speaks with social work specialist Sierra Ismail about her journey in healing and the establishment of the Calm Corner..
They delve into the complexities of trauma bonding, the cycles of love bombing, and the importance of recognising emotional patterns in relationships. Sieera shares her insights on the impact of parental trauma, the significance of community support, and the therapeutic techniques she employs to help clients navigate their emotional struggles.
The conversation emphasises the need for self-care, the difference between living and surviving, and the power of therapy in personal growth.
Takeaways
Trauma bonding is a common experience for many individuals.
Recognising the cycle of trauma is crucial for healing.
Parental relationships can significantly influence trauma bonds.
Love bombing can create unhealthy dependencies in relationships.
Emotional intelligence plays a key role in understanding trauma bonds.
The Calm Corner provides a safe space for healing and support.
Community involvement can amplify the impact of healing initiatives.
Self-care practices are essential for mental well-being.
Living is about finding peace amidst chaos, not just surviving.
Therapy empowers individuals to understand and navigate their emotions.
To get in touch with Si please use the following
Thecalmcorner10@gmail.com
"It's an ongoing process, not a cure." - Mick Cooper
"Today, we have a guest who has revolutionised the world of therapy and counselling someone who’s not just shaping the conversation but redefining it.
Mick Cooper is a trailblazer in psychology, a bestselling author, and a thought leader in pluralistic therapy. His work challenges the way we think about relationships, meaning, and personal growth, offering fresh, practical insights that actually make a difference.
In this engaging conversation, shares his unexpected lessons learned throughout his career, the importance of social justice in therapy, and the nuances of the therapeutic relationship. He discusses the impact of AI on therapy, the significance of silence, and how different attachment styles influence client engagement.
Mick also offers valuable advice for new therapists and reflects on common misconceptions about therapy, all while sharing personal anecdotes and insights into his self-care practices and interests.
To get in contact with Mick please use the following:
Summary
In this episode we speak with Dr. Sharmin Akhtar, a Clinical Director at MIND Remedy and an experienced counselling psychologist.
We discuss Dr. Sharmin's journey into psychology, the challenges of pursuing a doctorate, and the importance of resilience in the application process.
The conversation also delves into the dynamics of working with parents and children in therapy, the significance of culturally sensitive approaches like the Tree of Life, and the rewarding aspects of helping clients navigate their mental health challenges.
Dr. Sharmin Aktar is the Clinical Director of The Mind Remedy and a HCPC-registered Counselling Psychologist with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked across the NHS, private practice, schools, and charities, supporting children, young adults, adults, and couples.
Her therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) to create tailored treatments. Sharmin’s work balances a focus on the ‘here and now’ with exploration of childhood experiences to uncover the roots of psychological distress. Guided by Person-Centred Counselling, she brings empathy, authenticity, and a non-judgemental approach to her clients.
To get in touch with Dr Sharmin, please use the following.
@dr.SharminAktar on TikTok
@the.mind.remedy on instagram
"You can't do any of this without a team." - Russell Wall
Russell Wall CEO of Art Therapies UK, discusses the challenges of transitioning leadership, the impact of art therapy, and the importance of teamwork and community support. He emphasises the need for education about the legitimacy of art therapy and the role of technology in enhancing therapeutic practices. Russell also reflects on his leadership style, the future of art therapy, and offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders in the field.
To get in touch with Russell please use the following:
russellwall@artstherapiesuk.org.uk
"Education is key to breaking stigma."
"We need to amplify immigrant voices."
"We cross borders in search of a better life." - Across The Border
In this episode, host Calvin Anderson speaks with Mawada Mohamed and Meyys Hussein from Across the Border, an organisation dedicated to supporting immigrants. They discuss the challenges immigrants face, particularly regarding mental health, and the importance of community support.
The conversation covers the founding story of ATB, the three pillars of their advocacy (race, age, and gender), and the symbolism of flowers in their work.
They also address the stigma surrounding mental health in immigrant communities, the impact of social media on youth, and the need for inclusive mental health support. The episode emphasises the collective responsibility to advocate for mental health and the importance of education in breaking down barriers.
Across the Border CIC is a community-driven organisation dedicated to supporting immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in the UK. We provide education, advocacy, and direct support to ensure that those navigating the challenges of migration have access to resources, opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
Through community initiatives, workshops, and digital advocacy, we address barriers in healthcare, employment, and social inclusion while amplifying the voices of those too often unheard.
Our work fosters empowerment, resilience, and systemic change, helping to build a society where every individual, regardless of background, can thrive.
To reach out to the ladies of ATB please use the following:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/across-the-border-cic/about/?viewAsMember=true
"It's often not what you say, it's how you say it". - Anisa Baig
Anisa Baig is a London-based Psychological Therapist, currently training in High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Having studied at King’s College London and UCL, she now works in an NHS mental health service and enjoys interacting with a diverse range of clients.
As a British-Indian, Anisa is particularly interested in ensuring people of all ethnic backgrounds can access effective mental health support. She also has a keen interest in aviation and aspires to apply her psychological knowledge in this field.
In this episode, Anisa shares her journey, the challenges and rewards of her roles, and the importance of self-care in the mental health field.
They discuss the practical applications of CBT, common misconceptions, and the significance of empowering clients in their therapeutic journey.
Anisa also highlights the need for greater awareness of mental health services, especially within minority communities, and shares her aspirations for the future of mental health care.
To get in contact with Anisa you can reach out to her on Linkedin: Anisa Baig
"I love advocating for the profession." - Andrea Jardine
Summary
In this episode of The Check-in With Podcast, we speak with Andrea Jardine, a newly qualified music therapist. we discuss Andrea's journey into music therapy, the impact of music on mental health, her training experience, and the future of music therapy.
Andrea shares her personal experiences with anxiety and autism, highlighting the importance of creative therapies in mental health care.
In this conversation, Andrea Jordan shares her experiences and insights as a music therapist, discussing the importance of neurodiversity in therapy, her personal growth through therapy, and the advocacy work she has undertaken to promote the profession.
She offers valuable advice for aspiring music therapists and engages in light-hearted rapid-fire questions that reveal her personality and interests.
Website: https://musictherapywithandrea.co.uk
Contact info: Instagram - @musictherapywithandrea
LinkedIn - Andrea Jardine (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-jardine-4a8912138?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app)
E-mail: andreajardinemusictherapy@gmail.com
In this episode, we’re joined by Alice Spencer, a creative counsellor, psychotherapist, and small business owner based in Manchester.
Alice brings a refreshing approach to therapy, blending traditional practice with creative tools to support self-awareness, emotional resilience, and healing.With experience working in private practice and with children and young people at a mental health charity, Alice's work champions the power of creativity in mental health.
She’s also the co-founder of Creative Pie—an inspiring initiative delivering creative CPD, staff wellbeing workshops, and community-based sessions for professionals and youth groups.
Whether you're a therapist, educator, creative professional or simply curious about the role of creativity in wellbeing—this conversation will leave you inspired.
Learn more:
Therapy: bacp.co.uk
profile | alicegracecounselling@gmail.com
Creative Pie: @the_creativepie on Instagram | creativepieinfo@gmail.com
Jeremy Sachs Psychotherapist | Author | Director of the COSRT-Accredited Trauma Diploma at the NAOS Institute
Jeremy Sachs joins us for a powerful and essential conversation about trauma, healing, and masculinity.
A practicing psychotherapist and author of the groundbreaking new book An Intersectional Guide for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Their Allies: Masculinity Reconnected (Routledge, 2025),
Jeremy brings a deeply compassionate and informed perspective to the challenges faced by male survivors of sexual abuse.
Based in Glasgow and working both in person and online, Jeremy also serves as a trustee at Wellbeing Scotland, a charity supporting survivors of abuse, neglect, and adversity. As Director of the COSRT-accredited Trauma Diploma at the NAOS Institute in London, he is shaping the future of trauma-informed therapy in the UK.
In this episode, we explore how intersectionality reshapes the conversation around male survivorship, how traditional masculinity can be reimagined through healing, and what allies can do to offer meaningful support.
More about Jeremy:
Website: www.jeremysachs.com
LinkedIn: Jeremy Sachs
on LinkedInTwitter/X: @JeremySachs_
His book is available now at Waterstones and Amazon.
"By us taking that step to show the importance of representation is how we'll get further with it" - Nadia Khan
An aspiring clinical psychologist and current Assistant Psychologist with rich experience across community mental health, specialist ASD services, and acute inpatient settings.
As a proud South Asian woman and ethnic minority in the field, Nadia brings powerful insight into the intersections of identity, representation, and mental health.
In this episode, we explore:
The journey through multiple Assistant Psychologist roles.
The importance of representation and breaking barriers in psychology.
Navigating culture and stigma around mental health in South Asian communities.
Nadia’s passion for ethnicity, diversity & inclusion within healthcare.
Nadia’s story is a must-hear for anyone interested in psychology, mental health careers, and building a more inclusive future in the field.
Connect with Nadia:
Instagram: @psycmeout
LinkedIn: Nadia K
" Figure out if you need to let that client go and refer them to someone else" - Kimberly Tomlinson
In this episode, we speak with Kimberly Tomlinson, founder of TomlinsonTalks Ltd, about the deep emotional work that happens in therapy both in session and within ourselves.
We explore:
The relationship clients have with themselves especially their internal monologue.
How our inner child is shaped by the way adults treated us.
When clients break up with their therapist and why that’s sometimes necessary.
Why therapists need to recognise when they’re out of their depth.
The importance of giving clients permission to be challenged without feeling attacked.
Behind the scenes of private practice and real talk on the therapy profession
Kimberly blends person‑centred therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and culturally sensitive care to help clients reconnect with themselves and move toward healing—on their own terms.
Tune in and reflect with us.
Contact Kimberly:
Instagram: @tomlinsontalks
Kimberly on LinkedIn
#Podcast #MentalHealth #InnerChild #TherapistBreakup #TherapistTalk #CBT #PersonCentredTherapy #PrivatePractice #TomlinsonTalks #KimberlyTomlinson #MBACP #CounsellingMatters #PsychologyTalks #SelfReflection #HealingJourney #BlackTherapist #UKTherapist
New Episode: Navigating Autism, Wellbeing & Self-Healing with Sam – Editor of Health and Wellbeing Magazine by Foyht
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sam, editor of the Health and Wellbeing Magazine by Foyht—a passionate storyteller, former teacher of 18 years, and mum of four—who shares her personal and professional insights on navigating the healthcare maze and supporting holistic wellbeing.
Topics we cover:
Understanding and embracing Autism, with a focus on positive affirmations Exploring supportive practices like breathwork and nutritionWhat to do when faced with long healthcare waiting timesMilestone transitions from primary to secondary school and how to adapt with empathy
Finding alternative paths to healing and growth through holistic and spiritual therapies
Sam brings warmth, lived experience, and a wealth of practical knowledge to the conversation—plus a sprinkle of cosy, creative energy that makes you feel right at home.
Tune in now for a conversation full of hope, support, and self-care strategies
To get in touch with Sam please use the following:
Magazine: mag.foyht.org
Directory: dir.foyht.org
Instagram: @healthandwellbeingmag
Tiktok: @healthandwellbeingmag
Substack:@healthandwellbeingmag