Any stigma that has been associated with seeking therapy is declining – which is a good thing.
Overall health, whether mental or physical is the key to happiness and well-being.
With the world having moved more online in terms of video calls, ‘zooming’ has become normal.
It is easier now to reach out to a therapist more so than ever.
How do I find the right therapist?
There are many ‘styles’ of therapy and it can be difficult to understand what is the ideal one for you.
There is also the difficulty of the terminology used and words that are commonly used by therapists and specialist organisations can be difficult to understand.
What does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy mean? Or Psychodynamic Therapy or Integrative Therapy.
This can be confusing and also how to tell which therapy is the ideal one.
Many therapists offer a free 15 minutes or so chat – it is difficult but ask questions.
Do I seek the right therapist or the right therapy?
A key factor is the relationship that you ultimately build with your therapist.
Some considerations would include their age, gender, sexuality, race, culture and experience.
When viewing a therapist – either on their website or on our website – the number of ‘issues’ listed can seem overwhelming and there can be a tendency to try and label yourself as one of them.
Everyone has googled symptoms and thought ‘that describes me’.
Most therapists will consider you ‘holistically’ and not simply try and label you.
Getting to know your therapist is a key component of seeking help and understanding your own unique consideration.
Location of your therapist – is this important?
The location of a therapist used to be important, and if you prefer to meet your therapist then it is a key consideration.
Many therapists now work online and so you may never physically meet your therapist.
This may help and you can have sessions with your therapist in your own home – which may make things easier.
You will know if meeting your therapist or working with them online better suits your needs.
How do I know if my therapist is qualified?
This is important.
As recently highlighted by BACP, many people don’t realise that almost anyone can call themselves a counsellor or psychotherapist.
This can create confusion when looking for an accredited professional.
A reputable therapist will be a member of professional therapy associations
BACP, BPS, UKCP, NCS and
BABCP
Are the lead organisation for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in the UK and Ireland.
They promote, improve and uphold standards of CBT practice, supervision and training.
They support their members to develop professionally and link with the CBT community.
BABCP operate a highly-respected voluntary register for our accredited cognitive behavioural psychotherapists and helps to protect the public by supporting best practices.
How much will therapy cost me?
You will find the cost of therapy can vary a lot. This can depend on the expertise of the therapist, their specialisms and also their location. London therapists may charge more (e.g. £100.00 and more for 50 minutes) whilst other areas can be as low as £30.00.
Many training centres also provide access to students who can provide therapy as this is part of their training and this can be at a reduced rate.
Many therapists offer a free initial consultation (e.g. 15 min call) and this can be ideal to help you frame what type of therapy many be appropriate for you.
Many therapist offer concessions (e.g. low-income)
Where do I start if I think I need therapy?
Often the best place to start is with your GP.