Finding quality resources as a therapist can be daunting, especially with the abundance of options available.
The best podcasts for therapists stand out as a convenient and insightful medium for those seeking to enhance their practice, stay current with psychological advancements, or gain a mental health boost.
Our curated list highlights the best podcasts for therapists, featuring expert interviews and practical advice. These selections are designed to enrich your professional journey with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Dive in and explore how these podcasts can support your growth and development in the field.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Podcasts for Therapists
Selecting the top podcasts for therapists involves evaluating various factors to guarantee that the content is both informative and engaging. Here are the criteria we used to identify the best podcasts:
- 🎙️ Expertise: Hosted by recognized mental health professionals with substantial experience.
- 📚 Content Relevance: Covers therapy techniques, case studies, mental health trends, and self-care.
- ⭐ Popularity: High ratings, positive reviews, and significant downloads.
- 🛠️ Practical Application: Provides actionable advice and therapeutic strategies.
- 🎧 Engagement: Engaging storytelling and well-structured episodes.
- 🔊 Production Quality: High-quality audio and professional editing.
- 💡 Innovative Insights: Fresh perspectives and new research findings.
- 🤝 Community: Fosters a sense of community and opportunities for networking.
By applying these criteria, we can identify podcasts that truly enhance therapists’ professional development and provide valuable resources.
Shrink Rap Radio
- Release date: June 2005
- No. of Episodes: Over 760
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean
Shrink Rap Radio, hosted by Dr. David Van Nuys, is a pioneering podcast that has been offering rich psychological insights since 2005.
Dr. Van Nuys, a seasoned psychology professor, engages with leading experts in various fields, such as psychotherapy, social issues, and addiction. The podcast’s strength lies in making complex psychological topics accessible and engaging through in-depth conversations and expert interviews.
Each episode, typically an hour long, provides valuable knowledge and practical insights, making it a must-listen for therapists and anyone keen on understanding human behavior. With over 760 episodes, Shrink Rap Radio remains a vital resource for continuous learning and professional development in psychology.
The Couples Therapist Couch
- Release date: 2017
- No. of Episodes: Over 250
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podtail, Podbean, Audible
The Couples Therapist Couch, hosted by Shane Birkel, is an essential podcast for relationship therapists looking to enhance their practice.
Shane has been offering in-depth interviews with experts in relationship therapy, providing practical advice and strategies to support couples through various challenges.
Each episode, usually about an hour long, delves into topics ranging from effective communication techniques to managing infidelity. Shane’s approachable style and dedication to continuous learning make this podcast an invaluable resource for both seasoned therapists and those new to the field, offering fresh perspectives and actionable insights.
Hidden Brain
- Release date: September 2015
- No. of Episodes: Over 300
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR, Amazon Music
Hidden Brain, hosted by Shankar Vedantam, is a captivating podcast that explores the unconscious patterns driving human behavior through a blend of science and storytelling.
Vedantam has been unraveling the complexities of human psychology by delving into various topics, from social norms to cognitive biases. Each episode typically lasts around an hour and features engaging narratives and expert interviews, making complex scientific concepts both accessible and entertaining.
With its global perspective and empathetic approach, Hidden Brain is perfect for therapists and anyone interested in the science behind human behavior, providing valuable insights into the psychological forces that shape our lives.
Therapist Uncensored
- Release date: September 2016
- No. of Episodes: Over 220
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube
Therapist Uncensored, co-hosted by Dr. Ann Kelley and Sue Marriott, provides a unique blend of humor and scientific rigor to keep listeners informed about the latest in psychology.
Since its launch in 2016, this podcast has tackled a wide range of topics, from polyamorous relationships to effective communication strategies, making complex psychological concepts accessible and engaging.
Ann and Sue’s dynamic and unbiased approach, combined with their passion for science, makes each episode both informative and enjoyable. Therapist Uncensored is an excellent resource for therapists and the general public alike, offering fresh perspectives and updated theories on various psychological topics.
Therapy Chat
- Release date: 2015
- No. of Episodes: Over 350
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Player.FM, YouTube, Podbean
Therapy Chat, hosted by Laura Reagan, is a comprehensive podcast focusing on holistic and alternative approaches to therapy. Laura, a licensed psychotherapist, interviews a wide array of guest speakers who share their therapeutic practices and experiences, particularly in dealing with trauma.
The podcast typically runs between 30 to 60 minutes and offers valuable insights into self-care for therapists along with practical advice for managing crises. Laura’s compassionate and insightful approach ensures that listeners receive practical tools and strategies that can be applied in their practices.
Whether you are looking to incorporate holistic methods into your therapy sessions or seeking ways to maintain your well-being, Therapy Chat is an essential resource.
Mental Illness Happy Hour
- Release date: March 2011
- No. of Episodes: Over 540
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud, YouTube, Podbay
Mental Illness Happy Hour, hosted by comedian Paul Gilmartin, addresses a wide range of mental health issues with a blend of humor and candid conversations. This weekly podcast has featured interviews with a diverse array of guests, including artists, healthcare professionals, and individuals sharing their personal experiences with mental health.
Each episode, usually about an hour long, aims to foster a sense of community and break the stigma surrounding mental health through open and honest dialogue.
Paul Gilmartin’s unique approach, combining humor with deep, meaningful discussions, makes Mental Illness Happy Hour an invaluable resource for therapists and anyone interested in understanding and improving mental health.
The Trauma Therapist Podcast
- Release date: 2014
- No. of Episodes: Over 600
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, TuneIn
The Trauma Therapist Podcast, hosted by Guy Macpherson, PhD, is a profound exploration of the human spirit through the lens of trauma and recovery.
This podcast has been a beacon of hope and knowledge for trauma therapists and those interested in the field. Guy interviews thought leaders in trauma, mindfulness, addiction, and yoga, delving into their journeys and the methodologies they use to help those impacted by trauma.
Each episode offers deep insights into the complexities of trauma and provides practical advice for both new and seasoned therapists. With its focus on the personal stories and professional expertise of its guests, The Trauma Therapist Podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone dedicated to the field of trauma therapy.
The Mental Health and Wealth Show
- Release date: 2020
- No. of Episodes: Over 100
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Libsyn, Amazon Music
The Mental Health and Wealth Show, hosted by Melanie Lockert, delves into the often-overlooked intersection of money and mental health. This podcast has been breaking taboos by addressing how financial stress, debt, and other money-related issues impact mental well-being.
Melanie, the author of “Dear Debt” and founder of the Lola Retreat, interviews mental health professionals, financial experts, and individuals who share their struggles and triumphs. Listeners gain practical advice and real-life stories, making complex financial and mental health topics accessible and relatable.
Melanie’s compassionate and candid approach encourages actionable steps toward improving financial and mental health, making this podcast a valuable resource for navigating these critical challenges.
The Savvy Psychologist’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Mental Health
- Release date: July 2014
- No. of Episodes: Over 400
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer
The Savvy Psychologist’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Mental Health, hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson, offers concise and practical advice to help listeners navigate life’s challenges with evidence-based strategies.
Since its launch in 2014, this podcast has been a reliable resource for anyone looking to improve their mental health. Dr. Johnson uses a sympathetic ear and scientific research to explain the “why” behind complex emotions and behaviors, making psychology relatable and actionable.
Each episode is typically short, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. From managing anxiety and depression to improving relationships and self-understanding, The Savvy Psychologist provides quick, digestible tips to enhance your mental well-being.
Speaking of Psychology
- Release date: 2013
- No. of Episodes: Over 150
- Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, The APA, Podbean
Speaking of Psychology, produced by the American Psychological Association, is a podcast that delves into the latest, most important, and relevant psychological research.
Hosted by Kim I. Mills, this podcast aims to bridge the gap between psychological science and everyday life. Since 2013, it has featured leading researchers discussing a wide range of topics, from how to study effectively to the psychology behind political stress.
The show consistently delivers valuable insights that listeners can apply to improve various aspects of their lives, making complex research accessible and practical. Speaking of Psychology is ideal for both psychology professionals and anyone interested in understanding the human mind and behavior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can podcasts help therapists in their professional development?
Podcasts offer therapists access to the latest research, therapeutic techniques, and expert insights, allowing for continuous learning and professional growth during daily activities.
What are some podcasts specifically focused on running a private therapy practice?
“The Private Practice Startup” and “The Therapist Experience” focus on building and managing a successful private practice, covering topics like marketing, insurance, and business strategies.
Are there any podcasts that blend humor with mental health discussions?
Yes, “The Hilarious World of Depression” combines humor with mental health discussions, featuring comedians who share their personal experiences with depression to reduce stigma and offer support.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re a therapist or not, these podcasts are guaranteed to grab your attention and teach you something new.
All the podcasts here can be easily accessed through Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
The podcasts featured here are hosted by professionals in the appropriate fields, but should not be used in place of specific therapy practices.
If you’re a private practitioner or are thinking of becoming one, then you need to listen to this podcast!