Join Mika Warne, MBACP , qualified counsellor and student psychotherapist In this episode of Understanding Autism, where we explore what autism really is beyond the stereotypes, labels, and misunderstandings. We talk about autism as a spectrum, what that means in everyday life, and why no two autistic people experience the world in the same way.

Whether you’re a parent, carer, professional, or someone wanting to better understand a loved one (or yourself), this episode offers clear, compassionate insight into autistic thinking, communication, sensory experiences, and emotional needs. We’ll also touch on common myths about autism and why listening to lived experience is so important.

Empty nest syndrome

When the Nest Feels a Little Too Quiet

It’s a strange feeling, isn’t it? One day your home is full of noise, laughter, and endless laundry and then suddenly, it’s quiet. The kids have grown up and moved out into the world, just as we always hoped they would. But while we cheer them on from afar, many of us are left wondering… what now?

In this episode, I talk about Empty Nest Syndrome - that deep mix of pride, loss, and uncertainty that often arrives when our children leave home. It’s something so many parents experience but rarely talk about openly.

I share reflections on how this transition can bring up feelings of loneliness and identity loss, and how we can start to rebuild a sense of purpose beyond parenting. We’ll explore gentle ways to reconnect with yourself, nurture your relationships, and rediscover what brings you joy.

If you’ve found yourself standing in a suddenly quiet kitchen or missing the chaos you once wished away, this conversation is for you. You’re not alone in feeling this way and this new chapter doesn’t have to feel empty. It can also be the beginning of something deeply fulfilling.

Understanding Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Join Mika Warne, qualified counsellor and founder of Meeks Counselling and Psychotherapy, for her fortnightly podcast exploring real conversations around mental health and emotional wellbeing.

In this episode, Mika takes a deep dive into Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), what it is, how it feels, and the impact it can have on daily life. She discusses the common signs and symptoms, the difference between everyday worry and anxiety disorders, and practical ways to manage and reduce anxious thoughts.

Whether you experience anxiety yourself, support someone who does, or simply want to better understand mental health, this episode offers insight, compassion, and grounded advice from a counsellor’s perspective.

Tune in, take a breath, and remember you are not alone.

What exactly is counselling – and what isn’t it? In this episode, I explore some of the most common questions people have about therapy and clear up a few of the biggest misconceptions.

Many people imagine counselling as someone giving you advice, telling you what to do, or “fixing” your problems. In reality, counselling is something very different. It’s about creating a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. You don’t have to wait until you’re at breaking point, and you don’t even need a specific “reason” to come to counselling. Sometimes, simply wanting to understand yourself better is reason enough

I share some of my own experiences from when I was a student counsellor and how those early sessions shaped my understanding of what therapy can offer. I also talk through the different approaches I use in my work. From the deeper explorations of psychodynamic therapy, to the supportive and empathic stance of person-centred counselling, to the practical tools of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I bring these elements together as an integrative therapist to meet the individual needs of each client.

You’ll also hear what typically happens in a counselling session and how I work with people in a collaborative way. Whether you’re completely new to the idea of therapy, considering it for yourself, or simply curious about how it all works, this episode offers an honest introduction to the counselling process

If you’ve ever wondered

What really happens in counselling?

Do I need a big reason to go?

What approaches do counsellors use?

How might counselling help me?

…then this conversation is for you

Join Mika Warne - qualified counsellor as we shine a light on men’s mental health - a subject that’s too often left in the shadows. Society still places huge pressure on men to stay strong, keep quiet, and carry on, but the truth is that many are struggling silently with issues like stress, grief, burnout, relationships, and the weight of expectations.

This episode offers an honest, compassionate space to explore these challenges. We talk about what it really means to experience grief as a man, how burnout creeps in without warning, the impact of relationship struggles, and why opening up can feel so difficult. At the same time, we look at practical ways to start conversations, reduce stigma, and build support systems that work.

Whether you’re navigating your own mental health journey or want to better understand the men in your life, this episode is about breaking the silence. It’s a reminder that vulnerability is strength, that reaching out is a sign of courage, and that no man should have to carry the weight alone.

Join Mika Warne, a qualified counsellor with a passion for supporting those navigating loss, as she explores the complex and often misunderstood journey of grief. In each episode, we’ll discuss the emotional, psychological, and practical aspects of bereavement, share coping strategies, and offer guidance for both those grieving and the people who support them. Whether you’ve experienced a recent loss or want to better understand how to help others, this podcast provides insight, compassion, and hope during life’s most difficult moments.