Research, Rehabilitation & Reform
with Dr Geraldine Akerman
About this episode
In episode nine of Self Matters, host Charlie Wells interviews Dr. Geraldine Akerman, a consultant forensic psychologist at the Oxford Health NHS Trust, co-chair of BPS Division for Forensic Psychology and co-founder of 'Let's Talk Forensic Psychology'. Dr. Akerman shares her unconventional journey into forensic psychology as well as her work in prisons, particularly focusing on therapy for individuals convicted of sexual offences.
About the guest
Dr Geraldine Akerman
Dr. Geraldine Akerman is passionate about forensic psychology and charitable work. She has worked in prisons for 26 years, primarily with men who have committed violent and sexual offences. Most of her career has been spent in a prison-based therapeutic community, but she has also worked with young offenders and currently serves in a foreign nationals jail and a remand prison. Dr. Akerman completed her PhD at the University of Birmingham, focusing on the development of a psychometric measure of current sexual interests. She was awarded an honorary Professorship at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
Episode transcript & chapters
Join host Charlie Wells on this episode of Self Matters as he interviews Dr. Geraldine Akerman, a consultant forensic psychologist at Oxford Health NHS Trust, co-chair of BPS Division for Forensic Psychology and co-founder of 'Let's Talk Forensic Psychology'. Discover Dr. Akerman's fascinating journey from growing up near a psychiatric hospital to becoming a key figure in forensic psychology. Learn about the critical differences between forensic and clinical psychology, the intricacies of working with prisoners, particularly those convicted of sexual offences, and evolving strategies in forensic therapy.
00:14 Meet Dr. Geraldine Akerman
01:00 Geraldine's Journey into Psychology
03:40 Values and Early Influences
05:39 Choosing Forensic Psychology
08:16 Forensic vs. Clinical Psychology
09:32 Working in Prisons
11:28 Therapeutic Approaches in Prisons
18:22 Challenges and Systemic Changes
24:40 Reintegration and Support Post-Prison
26:47 Geraldine's YouTube Channel
28:17 Self-Care and Coping Strategies
