Choosing a therapist

Where do you start?

We are a funny bunch...

From the highly intellectuals, seasoned experienced, and the newly qualified - we all bring our different theoretical frameworks (the theory we are trained in) and our personalities - in to our practices.

As we are trained in various ways and belong to different umebrella bodies or accreditors, it can be confusing for the client to find what they need.

You need someone- insured - Qualified - and personable as a starting point

Due to the different theortical frameworks, the tools therapists use in counselling may vary from one type of theory to another. Nearly all the different theoretical frameworks have powerful and useful elements, that allow the therapist to engage and work successfully with the client on the issues they bring. Most clients are unaware of the intricacies of the counselling theories.....and that is fine, as they all have their unique benefits.

Some counsellors like myself may have initially trained in one way, but developed skills and training over the years- and now work within a selections of theoretical frameworks - and tend to use whatever is appropriate for the client.

Look for someone with experience in the issue you wish to bring

It is very important ...that you trust the therapist you chose so that the work you do together feels as safe and as comfortable as possible. Very often a client will experience deep and meaningful insight and be exploring painful topics which could bring about some difficult feelings.

The therapy is much more successful if client experiences the therapist as a safe, genuine and absolutely confidential facilitator for the work they will do together.

The length of time you remain in therapy may vary. What is very important, is that the sessions continue for the correct reason: you feel you are getting help and support and making progress. You must also be sure you can afford the regular commitment. I make a point of doing my best to ensure I can afford the support and change, in the least time possible, without rushing or cutting corners. Counselling is expensive and I do not want you to suffer a financial burden.

The qualities of the therapist you chose should allow you to find real genuine support for the changes that may need to be made in your life. One way of ensuring you make the best choice possible, is to work with someone who is recommended to you. If you are not able to come in to counselling or coaching via this route then testimonials will be able to give you some idea of the benefit of choosing this particular therapist as the client demonstrates the way in which the therapy has impacted on their life... this is a good place to start!

All the testimonial on this site are genuine and you are welcome to review them in person with the identity of the client withheld.

Another way of finding a well qualified and experienced therapist is to search on sites like the BACP website or similar. The British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy 'only; register therapists that have been fully trained and fulfill their accreditation criteria.

Once you have established the therapist meets suitable standards - you might want to talkt to hem to see if you feel you can work with them. As humans we tend to get a feel for someone within the first five minutes. Therapist can also decide if they feel that they can work with the client or the issues they bring.

Then go forward to check them out for one initial sessions before committing to more.

Tips:

    • Check out qualifications

    • Are they insured

    • Go for someone who comes highly recommended

    • Check for valid testimonials

    • Ensure they are registered with BACP or similar ( check out the organisation online)

    • Try out your chosen therapist

    • Do not contract for further session unless you are sure you have found the right person

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