Four questions to ask yourself before you start looking for a counsellor.
I’ve sat in the therapy room as a client and I’ve felt judged. It isn't nice. There was no way that I was going to continue to work with that counsellor, especially when I'm paying them my hard earned cash.
That’s why I consider the therapeutic relationship to be key to counselling being successful. As my tagline states, there needs to be a connection with your counsellor so you feel comfortable enough to reflect upon life's experiences in order to process, learn, heal and grow.
Finding the right person isn’t easy
Finding the right counsellor can prove to be a bit of a challenge for some though. There may not be many counsellors working in your area, or the choices you have may be overwhelming, it is worth taking the time though, because skilled counsellors can help find the right tools, develop confidence and new skills, support you in dealing with repressed emotions that have affected you for years or ongoing problems. So, taking the time to find the right counsellor is worth the effort.
Here are four questions that you may want to ask yourself before you start looking for the right counsellor for you.
What type of therapy do you want?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic and Humanistic are just three of the many options
Do you want Online or face to face sessions?
What’s your budget?
In times when the cost of living is high, this question may be more pertinent than ever.
The cost of a single session varies from therapist to therapist.
What are the qualifications and experience you require in a counsellor?
Is the counsellor listed on an accredited register? BACP, NCS, UKCP, ACTO to name a few. Check out https://www.professionalstandards.org.uk/check-practitioners/practitioner/counselor.
This just means they have undertaken an accredited counselling course or completed a certificate of proficiency on completion of their training and work within ethical practice. From a personal perspective a am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Out of the starting blocks
Undertaking counselling can feel scary, it's the unknown. I'm not saying it's going to be easy, in fact, the likelihood is that there will be a few bumps in the road but, you are worth it! I recently asked a client what they would say to someone considering therapy, their answer was “ Don't be afraid. You will be amazed how it can change your life.” I guess I was the right counsellor for them. If you are thinking of having counselling, take some time to find the right counsellor for you, it could make all the difference.
Give it a try
Contact me to arrange your free 20 minute session via the phone or online platforms. You can ask questions and see if there is potential for working together.
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