How to find a counsellor or therapist

Most people are not aware that counselling and therapy is not a regulated profession which means that anyone can set up a practice and take on clients. 

Here are some pointers to help you chose the right counsellor for you: -

1. Check they are a member of a professional body who are registered with the Professional Standards Authority  This will ensure that your counsellor is fully trained and works to a high ethical standard to keep you safe.  It means the therapist is trained, insured and follows an ethical framework. Is also means the therapist is accountable for their professional conduct to that professional body. For more information this NCS video may help.

2. Does it feel right?  Most counsellors will offer an initial consultation.  This is just as much an opportunity for you to see if you 'fit' with the counsellor as it is for the counsellor to find out a little about you and why you would like counselling. 

3.  Shop around! Don't feel you need to use the first counsellor you meet - unless it feels right.  Meet with a few counsellors and take your time when choosing.  A good counsellor will not be offended if you choose someone else, they may even be able to suggest someone else. 

4. Can you afford it? There are no fee guidelines for counsellors and therapists so the prices will vary greatly. This will mostly depend on how much the therapist needs to earn, the local 'going rate' and what a therapist feels is the right fee for their individual experience and training. The more expensive the therapist do NOT mean more experienced. A good way to search is to work out how much you can afford and then search for therapists within that price range. Some therapists, like myself, offer a sliding scale which means offering some reduced fee sessions for individuals who have financial challenges.