Top Therapist Podcasts: 12 Must-Listen Shows for Professional Growth and Insight

In our fast-paced world, keeping up with the latest trends and techniques in therapy can feel overwhelming. With the demands of managing a caseload, handling administrative tasks, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, professional development often gets sidelined.

But imagine continuing to learn and grow as a therapist without sacrificing valuable time or resources. Podcasts offer a practical solution for mental health professionals eager to expand their knowledge and skills.

Podcasts have surged in popularity recently, and for good reason. They provide a convenient and engaging way to absorb information while on the move. For therapists, podcasts serve as a valuable resource for staying current with research, exploring new treatment methods, and gaining insights from seasoned practitioners.

Why Podcasts Matter for Therapists

• Flexibility: Learn during commutes or downtime.
• Exposure to a variety of therapeutic approaches and trends.
• Access to expert opinions, case studies, and real-life examples.

Top 9 Therapist Podcasts to Listen To

Take a look at this curated list of must-listen podcasts designed to support your growth as a therapist. Each show offers unique insights, practical strategies, and expert interviews to help you stay informed and inspired in your practice.

1. The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide: Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy are two seasoned clinicians who provide candid conversations, expert insights, and humor while exploring the real-life challenges and triumphs of being a modern mental health professional
2. Therapists Uncensored: Sue Marriott, LCSW, CGP, and Dr. Ann Kelley, Ph.D., explore attachment theory, relational neuroscience, and psychotherapy techniques. Examine the impact of early experiences on brain development and learn strategies for promoting growth and healing.
3. Selling the Couch: Hosted by psychologist Dr. Melvin Varghese, this podcast helps therapists grow their businesses, build meaningful private practices, and create impactful online income streams. Explore topics like marketing, productivity, and the journey of therapist entrepreneurship—all with a focus on purpose, authenticity, and sustainability.
4. Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Podcast: Hosted by psychiatrist Dr. David Puder, this podcast explores the art and science of mental health treatment. Dive into evidence-based practices, the therapeutic alliance, and the latest research in psychiatry and psychotherapy. Gain insight into how to be a more effective, compassionate clinician through thoughtful interviews and in-depth clinical discussions.
5. Psychology in Seattle: Hosted by Dr. Kirk Honda, this podcast blends deep dives into psychological topics with pop culture analysis, real-life case discussions, and therapist education. From attachment theory to media psychology, explore mental health through an engaging, accessible lens that’s both informative and entertaining.
6. The Practice of Therapy: Hosted by therapist and consultant Gordon Brewer, LMFT, this podcast offers practical insights for building and growing a successful private practice. Learn about business strategies, clinical tools, ethical considerations, and the personal side of being a therapist—designed to support you at every stage of your practice journey.
7. The Radical Therapist: Hosted by Dr. Chris Hoff, this podcast explores the intersections of therapy, social justice, and cultural transformation. Through conversations with thought leaders, activists, and clinicians, challenge traditional narratives in mental health and discover progressive, inclusive approaches to healing and therapeutic practice.
8. Shrink Rap Radio: Hosted by Dr. David Van Nuys, this long-running podcast features in-depth interviews with leading psychologists, therapists, and researchers. Covering a wide range of topics—from depth psychology and mindfulness to neuroscience and creativity—Shrink Rap Radio offers rich conversations at the intersection of psychology, healing, and human experience.
9. The Practice of the Practice: Hosted by Joe Sanok, this podcast helps therapists and entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale private practices with confidence. Dive into expert interviews, marketing strategies, and innovative ideas for building a thriving business—whether you're just getting started or ready to level up your impact and income.

How to Choose the Right Podcasts for Your Professional Growth

With so many therapist podcasts available, it's important to select shows that match your professional interests and goals. Consider these factors when creating your podcast playlist:

• Specialization and Niche: Identify your areas of specialization or topics you'd like to learn more about. Look for podcasts that focus on specific therapeutic approaches, such as CBT, DBT, or trauma-informed care, to expand your knowledge and skills in those areas.
• Evidence-Based Practices: Give priority to podcasts that focus on evidence-based practices and feature experts discussing the latest research and proven interventions. This ensures you're learning from reliable sources and can apply advanced techniques in your practice.
• Business and Practice Management: As a therapist, it's important to develop business skills along with clinical skills. Seek out podcasts that offer insights into marketing your practice, client retention strategies, and building a successful therapy business. These shows can help you navigate the challenges of being a modern therapist and achieve long-term success.
• Engaging Hosts and Guests: Choose podcasts with engaging, knowledgeable hosts who interview a wide range of experts in the field. Look for shows that feature renowned researchers, experienced clinicians, and thought leaders who can provide valuable insights and fresh perspectives on relevant topics.
• Listener Reviews and Recommendations: Pay attention to listener reviews and ratings to gauge the quality and relevance of a podcast. Seek recommendations from colleagues or online therapist communities to find shows that have resonated with others in your field.

Remember, the key is to find podcasts that not only catch your interest but also encourage you to grow as a therapist. Don't hesitate to explore new topics or step outside your comfort zone – you never know what valuable insights you might gain.

Benefits of Continuing Education Through Podcasts

Podcasts offer many advantages for therapists looking to expand their knowledge and skills. As a cost-effective and time-efficient form of professional development, they allow you to learn at your own pace without the need for expensive conferences or workshops.

• Keeping Up-to-Date: Podcasts provide a steady flow of information about the latest research, trends, and interventions in the mental health field. Regularly listening to relevant shows helps you stay informed about recent developments and best practices.
• Varied Perspectives: One of the greatest benefits of podcasts is the exposure to a wide range of therapeutic approaches and philosophies. Listening to shows hosted by experts from different backgrounds and specializations broadens your understanding of various treatment methods and helps you incorporate new techniques into your practice.
• Convenient Learning: Podcasts fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, allowing you to learn during your commute, workout, or downtime. This flexibility makes it easier to focus on your professional growth without sacrificing other commitments.
• Earning CEUs: Some select therapist podcasts now offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs), enabling you to earn credits while learning. This option helps you meet your professional development requirements without the need for additional coursework or travel.
• Building Community: Engaging with therapist podcasts connects you to a supportive community of like-minded professionals. Participating in online discussions, sharing insights, and collaborating with fellow listeners fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation in your practice.

Podcasts as a tool for continuing education not only enhance your clinical skills but also inspire you to explore new ideas and approaches in your work with clients. The accessibility, diversity, and convenience of podcasts make them a valuable resource for any therapist committed to lifelong learning and professional growth.

Building a Podcast Listening Routine

Developing a consistent podcast listening routine can enhance your learning experience. Here are some tips to help you make time for podcasts and incorporate them into your professional development plan:

• Schedule Listening Time: Allocate specific times in your calendar for podcast listening, just like any other important task. Whether it's during your morning commute, lunch break, or evening walk, choose a time that fits your schedule and commit to it.
• Use Downtime Wisely: Make the most of moments throughout the day when you can multitask, such as while doing household chores, exercising, or waiting in line. These small pockets of time add up and allow you to fit in more podcast learning without neglecting other responsibilities.
• Create a Playlist: Compile a playlist of your favorite therapist podcasts or episodes you want to listen to. Having a pre-selected list makes it easier to jump right in when you have a few minutes, rather than spending time searching for something to listen to.
• Set Learning Goals: Identify specific areas of your practice you want to improve or topics you want to learn more about. Look for podcasts that align with these goals and prioritize them in your listening queue. This focused approach helps you make progress toward your professional development objectives.
• Engage with the Content: Instead of just listening passively, actively engage with the material. Take notes, pause to reflect on key points, and think about how you can apply the insights to your work with clients. This deeper level of engagement helps solidify your learning and makes the content more memorable.
• Combine with Other Learning Methods: While podcasts are a great learning tool, they work best when paired with other forms of education. Read books or articles related to the topics covered in your favorite episodes, attend webinars or conferences featuring podcast hosts or guests, and discuss with colleagues to further expand your knowledge and skills.

Remember, building a podcast listening routine is a personal journey. Experiment with different strategies and find what suits your learning style and schedule best. The goal is to be consistent and purposeful in your approach, making podcasts a regular part of your professional development toolkit.

Combining Podcasts with Other Learning Methods

While podcasts offer a valuable resource for therapists' professional growth, they are most effective when combined with other learning methods. Here are some ways to improve your podcast learning experience:

• Engage in Online Communities: Join online forums, social media groups, or discussion boards related to the podcasts you enjoy. Share your insights, ask questions, and interact with fellow therapists to deepen your grasp of the topics covered in the episodes.
• Apply Insights to Your Practice: After listening to a podcast episode, take some time to consider how you can incorporate the key takeaways into your client work. Think about specific cases or situations where the strategies discussed could be useful, and plan how to use them in your sessions.
• Supplement with Other Resources: Use podcasts as a starting point for further exploration. Seek out related books, articles, or research papers that explore the topics that interest you more deeply. Attend webinars or workshops hosted by podcast guests or experts to gain additional knowledge and skills.
• Incorporate into Supervision and Training: Discuss relevant podcast episodes with your clinical supervisor or colleagues during case consultations or team meetings. Share how you've used the insights in your work and seek feedback on your approach. Use podcasts as a tool for ongoing professional growth and training.
• Create a Learning Journal: Keep a dedicated notebook or digital document to jot down key points, reflections, and action steps from the podcasts you listen to. Regularly review your notes to reinforce your learning and track your progress over time.

The aim is to make podcasts a meaningful part of your overall learning strategy. By actively engaging with the content, applying the insights to your practice, and combining them with other educational resources, you can fully benefit from therapist podcasts for your professional growth.

Podcasts have become a vital resource for therapists looking to boost their professional growth and keep up with the latest trends, techniques, and research in the mental health field. As the need for accessible, high-quality learning opportunities continues to grow, podcasts provide a convenient and engaging option.

• Ongoing Value: Therapist podcasts offer a wealth of knowledge and insights that can be directly applied to clinical practice. They cover a diverse range of topics, feature expert interviews, and present real-world examples that inspire new ideas and approaches to client care.
• Staying Updated: In a rapidly changing field, podcasts help therapists stay informed about the latest research developments, treatment methods, and best practices. They provide a continuous flow of information that keeps practitioners at the forefront of their profession.
• Commitment to Learning: Podcasts encourage therapists to adopt a lifelong learning mindset and focus on their professional development. By making podcast listening a part of their routine, therapists show a dedication to growth and excellence in their practice.

As we progress into 2025, the role of podcasts in therapist professional development will only continue to grow. With more high-quality shows available and increasing recognition of their value, more therapists will turn to podcasts as a key source of learning and inspiration.

Whether you're an experienced practitioner or just starting your therapy career, spending time listening to therapist podcasts can profoundly impact your professional growth. Explore the power of podcasting and find new opportunities for learning, connection, and success in your practice.

‍