Shoulder to Shoulder by With-you
Welcome to Shoulder to Shoulder
Shoulder to Shoulder is a podcast about the power of peer support and lived experience, and what happens when people who've been through tough times use that experience to help others.
But what is peer support? It's simple: people who've faced their own challenges offer understanding, connection, and hope to others going through similar challenges. That's the meaning of peer support, and it's at the heart of everything we do.
In a world that can make us feel alone when we're struggling, this podcast is a reminder that connection changes everything.
I'm Cate Munro, and each episode I talk with people who've faced real challenges - mental health struggles, addiction, trauma, grief, life-changing moments - and who now stand shoulder to shoulder with others on their own journeys.
My guests include peer support workers, people running peer support groups, and individuals whose lived experience has become their greatest strength.
They share their stories honestly: what happened, what helped, and how peer support made a difference.
Whether you're a peer support worker, thinking about becoming one, part of a peer support group, or simply believe in the power of human connection and shared experience, there's something here for you.
Before you listen: This podcast explores personal stories of growth, mental health and resilience. Some episodes include descriptions of trauma and distress. Please trust your instincts and look after yourself - it's always okay to pause or come back another time.
Thank you for being here.
Find out more about With-you Consultancy at www.with-you.co.uk
Shoulder to Shoulder by With-you
EP 22: From OCD to Occupational Therapy: Matt’s Story of Peer Support and Hope
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In this episode of Shoulder to Shoulder, Cate speaks with Matt - a Peer supporter and Assistant occupational therapist in Hertfordshire’s mental health crisis team.
After nearly two decades working in the water industry, Matt made a bold career change following his own experience of living with OCD. He shares what that transition was like, how his diagnosis shaped his outlook, and why peer support plays such a vital role in recovery.
You’ll hear how Matt uses lived experience to support others facing mental health crises, what a typical day looks like in frontline care, and how his own radio show on OCD is breaking stigma and building connection.
We also explore the difference between peer support and clinical therapy, how to get involved in mental health services, and what hope can sound like at your lowest moment.
Topics include:
- Living with OCD and recognising the signs
- Peer support vs. traditional mental health care
- Making a midlife career change into mental health work
- Stories from the frontline of crisis support
- Using lived experience to create change
- Why Matt started his own radio show on OCD
- Encouragement for those afraid to seek help
For more stories — and to learn about peer support — visit with-you.co.uk
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
With-you consultancy: www.with-you.co.uk