In this episode, Professor Rory O’Connor and Craig spoke to author and Professor of Psychology at the University of Roehampton, Professor Mick Cooper.

Mick is an internationally recognised authority in the field of counselling and psychotherapy and a chartered psychologist. He is also a prolific writer, and has written about a range of subjects such as humanistic, existential, and relational approaches to therapy.

Mick’s latest book, “Psychology at the Heart of Social Change: Developing a Progressive Vision for Society”, delves into the idea of using psychology to transform the political landscape.

In this conversation, they discussed the rise of authoritarianism, using a person-centred approach to therapy, and using psychotherapy to foster societal well-being.

Content Warning: This episode of MQ Open Mind has discussions about suicide, self-harm and sexual violence.

In this episode, Professor Rory O’Connor and Craig spoke to the Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation, Gemma Kelly.

CEASE is a UK-based charity working to expose and dismantle the cultural and commercial drivers behind all forms of sexual exploitation in the UK. To achieve its mission, CEASE campaigns for new and better laws, advocates for policy change and holds the global sex industry to account.

In this conversation, they discussed the societal implications of adult content, the effects of adult content on young people’s mental health, and plans to safeguard vulnerable people on the internet.

In this episode, Professor Rory O’Connor and Craig spoke to Professor of Health Psychology at Northumbria University and author, Professor Vincent Deary.

In 2014, Vincent released his first book, “How We Are”, the first in the “How We” trilogy, where he brings together his clinical and academic interests, along with his interest in philosophy, literature and popular culture, to paint a portrait of human life, suffering and well-being.

In this conversation, they discussed overcoming adversity early in life, understanding humanity from a researcher’s perspective, and what we really know about willpower.