Finding the right therapist
A recent BACP survey found that 20 percent of people in the UK have consulted a counsellor.
Choosing a therapist is never an easy decision and the process of finding a professional can be extremely daunting. In choosing your therapist you might want to consider some of the following:
Are they fully trained and registered with either the BACP or the UKCP? As such they will be practising under a robust and professional code of ethics.
A connection and rapport is key to building a good working relationship. Deciding if you have the right chemistry with your therapist may require you to meet them just once for a trial session. If it’s not there, talk to your counsellor about a change or if they can refer you on.
Professionalism, maintaining boundaries and accepting that therapy may not be the answer in itself, but through process and change they are there to empower you to get the best in yourself.
Working with you to become confident and independent, not dependent on therapy, empowering you over time to make lasting change in your life and become autonomous.
One I feel strongly about, a good therapist will use a willingness to listen, adapt and be creative, bringing the whole of themselves and their training and experience in life in order to tailor your treatment to your needs. Paying attention and keeping the sessions relevant throughout the process. Therapy does not work at its best when it feels formulaic.
You may need to speak to a few different therapists to know when it feels right.