Practice Management with iMatta - Non-Judgement as a Way of Living In episode 348 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the barriers to diversity in supervision – exploring the importance of cultural attunement, honesty, and managing bias. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Chris Metcalfe and Kent Riley from iMatta – a practice management platform for therapists looking to streamline their admin and protect client data. And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, we discuss how non-judgement can be more than a counselling condition – it can become a valuable way of living. Barriers to Diversity in Supervision [starts at 03:43 mins] Rory and Ken explore how barriers to diversity in supervision can arise when issues of equality and inclusion are overlooked, causing supervisees to hold back and ultimately impacting the client relationship. Key points include: Why supervisors need cultural awareness and CPD in diversity. How hidden clients can emerge when supervisees fear judgement or misunderstanding. The impact of language, unconscious bias, and national symbols in triggering discomfort. A powerful contribution from Sarah Henry, Racial Diversity and Training Correspondent, on attunement versus competence. Practice Management with iMatta [starts at 33:00 mins] This week, Rory is joined by Chris Metcalfe and Kent Riley from iMatta, a secure, easy-to-use platform designed for therapists. Discussion points include: iMatta’s origins supporting ex-service personnel and the therapists who worked with them. Core features: GDPR-compliant data storage, secure video calling, notes, assessments, reminders, and invoicing. Community-building and training support built into the platform. How iMatta helps practitioners focus on therapy, not admin. Non-Judgement as a Way of Living [starts at 55:55 mins] Ken and Rory reflect on the deeper meaning of non-judgement and how it can shape, not just our therapy rooms, but our lives. Key takeaways include: Understanding the difference between judgement and assessment. How being non-judgemental starts with self and improves emotional regulation. The role of curiosity, empathy, and critical thinking in reducing bias. How non-judgement brings harmony to personal and professional relationships. Links and Resources Counselling Skills Academy Advanced Certificate in Counselling Supervision Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide Counsellor CPD Counselling Study Resource Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide Counselling Tutor Training and CPD Facebook group Website Online and Telephone Counselling: A Practitioner’s Guide Online and Telephone Counselling Course