Welcome to The Talk Works Podcast, a space where we explore mental health, therapy, practical advice, and the tools needed to support wellbeing in the workplace.

In this episode, host Jen Cottam speaks with Vicki Kneafsey, HR Manager for the outsourced partnership at Jackson Hogg, about how organisations can better support employees during sick leave.

Vicki shares why first-line managers are key to shaping workplace culture and highlights the urgent need to equip them with the skills to handle mental health challenges empathetically and confidently.

You’ll learn how to conduct meaningful first check-ins, design flexible return-to-work plans, and stay connected with employees without overstepping boundaries.

Vicki also shares common pitfalls, such as being overly transactional and shares best practices that promote employee wellbeing and business outcomes.

Visit Talk Works: https://talk-works.org.uk/

Connect with Jen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jencottam/

Connect with Vicki:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriakneafsey/

Welcome to the Talk Works Podcast, a space where we explore mental health, therapy, practical advice, and the tools needed to support wellbeing in the workplace.

In this first episode, host Jen Cottam is joined by Paul O'Donnell, Clinical Lead at Talk Works, to discuss the different types of therapy available and how to choose the approach that's right for you.

Whether you are managing trauma, anxiety, or simply looking to improve your mental wellbeing, this episode offers valuable, accessible insights.

Paul shares his perspective on the growing demand for mental health support, including a 33% rise in NHS referrals since 2019, and why making therapy more approachable and less intimidating is vital. He explains the importance of the therapeutic relationship, what to expect in a first session, and how therapy can support personal growth.

Key approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), counselling, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) are explored, with practical guidance for anyone curious about therapy, not just those facing a crisis.

Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or simply want to understand the options available, this episode provides expert, down-to-earth advice to help you take the next step.

Visit Talk Works: https://talk-works.org.uk/

Connect with Paul:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-o-donnell-145764280/

Connect with Jen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jencottam/