Clinic Musings

Finding the right therapist is crucial in determining the best outcome for your therapy. Evidence suggests that those whom develop a positive therapeutic relationship with their therapist are much more likely to benefit from their treatment. So how do you decide on who to choose? I believe that by following the 5 steps below, you will give yourself the best chance of finding the right fit for you:

1. Is the therapist suitably qualified? 

The act of Psychotherapy is not regulated in the UK and anyone can call themselves a Therapist or Counsellor. This means that your therapist may not have appropriate training or qualifications to help you with your problem. It also means that your therapist may not be having regular supervision to make sure that they are providing evidence-based treatments to their clients. Fortunately, there is a way of identifying appropriately trained therapists. The British Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapists (BABCP) is the leading organisation for CBT in the UK. They operate a 'highly respected' voluntary register of accredited CBT therapists whom have met the standards of training, maintain clinical practice, supervision, and professional development. Therapists whom wish to apply to join the register must have received over 200-hours of supervised practice from an accredited CBT therapist. To search the register, click here.

2. Is gender a concern?

Sometimes, clients request to see either a male or female therapist, for a number of different reasons. It may be because you have been through a domestic violent relationship and the gender of your therapist could be a trigger for your anxiety. It may be that you wish to discuss something that you feel only a male or female therapist could relate or understand. Whatever your preferences, take the time to think about whether gender is a concern for you.

3. How quickly do you want treatment?

Often, clients turn to private practice as the waiting times in the NHS are lengthy. Within private practice, waiting times can be significantly reduced compared to the NHS but there may still be a short period of time until your therapist has a free slot in which to see you. This can be helpful, however, as it gives you some time to think about what you would like to get out of treatment.

4. Can the therapist help with the problem you are looking for help with?

Whilst CBT is an effective treatment for a number of common mental health problems, it is not a one-size-fits-all therapy. There are a number of reasons why CBT may not be recommended, including: excessive drug and alcohol misuse; unstable mental illness; and high levels of risk to self. Be wary of therapists whom accept you in to their practice without prior consultation. It will only lead to frustrations and a potential rupture in the therapeutic relationship further down the line.

5. Be wary of your own biases

When I first began working in psychological therapy services, I had a couple of clients who commented that I looked too young to be helping them. Whilst I understood their reservations, age is not always a good reflection of a person's experience or competence. Likewise, don't always assume that an older therapist won't be able to relate and empathise with a younger client. 

I hope this has been helpful in supporting you to identify the right therapist for you. If you have any observations or would like to get in-touch, please click the link below.