Finding A Counsellor: Beginning Your Therapeutic Journey
Firstly, if you’re reading this blog post and are in the contemplation stage of seeking counselling—congratulations! Deciding to pursue therapy is a courageous step and an act of self-care. Finding the right counsellor can take time and effort, but it’s worth it. The right counsellor will not only support you but also help you gain the clarity and uncover the tools you have within yourself to navigate life’s challenges.
Therapy is an investment—an investment in yourself, your time, your emotional energy, and yes, your finances. I like to think of therapy as a gym membership for the mind. It requires commitment, persistence, motivation, self-care, and a willingness to do the work. And make no mistake, therapy is hard work. For many, it’s a decision filled with hope but also accompanied by uncertainty and questions:
How do you find the right counsellor?
How do you know if they’re qualified?
What if they’re not the right fit?
This blog is here to help you navigate these questions and empower you to take that first step with confidence.
The relationship between a counsellor and client is unlike any other. Think about it—how many relationships do you have where you meet the same person, at the same time, every week? Where there’s no judgment, no unsolicited advice, and an equal level of commitment from both sides? Therapy provides a space with clear boundaries, ensuring emotional safety and trust.
One of my former clients once compared finding a counsellor to buying a car. It’s a major investment, and you want to make sure you get it right. You need to decide which brand of car you want, your budget, how far you are willing to travel to view potential cars and, test drive them and once purchased ensuring you have a guarantee. The same can be said for when looking for a potential counsellor. This is a huge investment of your money, time and energy. You need to decide which modality / style of therapy will suit you best, the logistics of attending weekly sessions and, how much you can afford to pay your counsellor for sessions.
Starting the process of finding a counsellor can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s completely normal to feel unsure or even a little stressed about where to begin. But remind yourself—seeking help is an act of bravery. You are taking a step toward growth, healing, and prioritizing your well-being.
So, let’s break down the search process into bite-sized, manageable steps.
Understanding Counselling: Qualifications and Ethical Bodies
It’s important to know that in the UK, counselling is not a regulated profession in the same way as doctors and nurses. Unfortunately, this means that anyone can call themselves a counsellor, regardless of training or qualifications. Therefore, it’s vital to choose a counsellor who is qualified and registered with an ethical body. This organisation is where to go if you have any queries or complaints.
Some of the key ethical bodies for counselling and psychotherapy in the UK are:
BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy)
UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy)
British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC)
NCS (National Counselling Society)
The Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC)
COSRT (College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists)
BABCP (British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies)
Counsellors registered with these organizations adhere to strict ethical guidelines, have recognized qualifications, and undergo regular supervision to ensure they provide safe and effective care.
Where to Find a Counsellor
You can begin your search using trusted therapist directories, such as:
The Black African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN)
These platforms allow you to search for counsellors by location, specialty, and type of therapy offered.
Steps to Finding the Right Counsellor
1. Shortlist Three Counsellors You Like the Look Of
When reviewing counsellor profiles, consider their qualifications, areas of expertise, and how they describe their approach. Do their words resonate with you?
2. Arrange Introductory Calls
Many counsellors offer free, no-obligation introductory calls (I do!). These calls give you a chance to ask questions, understand their approach, and get a sense of their personality.
3. Book a One-Off Session
After speaking with a few counsellors, schedule a single session with each. This allows you to experience their style and assess how comfortable you feel with them. Like test driving a number of cars before committing to investing in one
4. Choose Someone You Can Bear Your Heart and Soul To
Counselling requires vulnerability. It’s crucial to find someone you feel safe with—someone who listens without judgment and creates a space where you can express yourself freely.
5. Research different approaches and see what resonates with you.
What to Ask a Potential Counsellor
During your introductory call, consider asking:
Which days and times do you have available for sessions
Are sessions weekly, online or face to face
What is your no show /cancellation policy
Do you have an agreement / contract for us both to sign - A safe, boundaried, counsellor will offer this document setting out the boundaries of your therapeutic relationship so you both know what to expect creating emotional safety. It is something to refer back to if something goes wrong within the relationship
Do you work with a set number of sessions or, long term open ended
What are your qualifications and are you registered with an ethical body?
What type of therapy do you offer, and how might it support me?
Do you have experience working with my specific issue?
What are your fees, how do I make payment and do you offer any concessions? - Every counsellor is different, some ask for session fees in advance, some after session. Some counsellors offer lower rates for students, OAP's or those on a lower income - It is definitely worth asking
How do you facilitate endings with clients
FAQs
What does integrative mean
Integrative counselors are trained in multiple counseling and psychological theories.
What is a modality
A modality is the theory which a counsellor is trained in and uses when supporting clients
What are the different types of counselling and how do I know which one to choose?
Below are the different types of counselling, it is best to arrange initial calls with potential counsellors you like the sound of to discuss which will be most helpful for you
Individual Counseling – One-on-one sessions with a therapist to work through personal challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, or self-esteem issues.
Couples Counseling – Focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening relationships.
Family Counseling – Helps families navigate conflicts, parenting issues, or major life changes together.
Group Counseling – A therapist-led session with multiple people facing similar issues, providing support and shared experiences.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – A structured approach that helps change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Psychodynamic Therapy – Focuses on exploring past experiences and unconscious thoughts to address emotional struggles.
Person-Centered Therapy – A non-directive approach that emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and self-exploration to help clients find their own solutions.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A therapy primarily used for trauma and PTSD, involving guided eye movements to help reprocess distressing memories.
Humanistic Therapy – Focuses on personal growth, self-actualization, and fulfilling one’s potential by emphasizing an individual’s unique experiences.
Integrative Therapy – Combines techniques from multiple therapeutic approaches to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to an individual's needs.
Career Counseling – Provides guidance on career choices, transitions, and workplace challenges.
Addiction Counseling – Helps individuals struggling with substance abuse or other addictive behaviors.
Trauma Counseling – Assists individuals in processing past traumatic experiences and developing coping strategies.
Online Counseling – Offers therapy via video calls, chat, or phone, providing flexibility and accessibility.
What is the difference between counsellor, therapist, psychotherapist, psychiatrist and psychologist:
The difference between counselling and psychotherapy is debated in the therapeutic field and not universally agreed upon therefore, it is best to contact potential counsellors / psychotherapists to ask how they work.
It is thought that psychotherapists often use other methods alongside talking therapies, for example, art, music or, movement therapies
The most important thing is you choose a counsellor / psychotherapist who you feel most comfortable with
Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who treat mental health conditions with medication. They are qualified to prescribe medication. Pychologists are mental health professionals who treat mental health conditions with psychotherapy and other therapeutic approaches. They typically have a doctorate degree, but do not attend medical school
A Final Word
Remember, the fact that you’re seeking support for your emotional well-being is already a sign of strength and resilience.
Take your time, trust your instincts, and know that you are worthy of support. When choosing your counsellor go with your gut instinct. When you find the right counsellor, it can be a transformative experience.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. You’ve got this!
