Finding a Counsellor

What’s the difference between a counsellor and a psychotherapist?

These terms are often used interchangeably and are understandably confusing. You will likely get different answers to this question depending on where you look. For me, the distinction lies in the training and style of practice of the practitioner. Someone with a psychotherapy background is more likely to work with you in an analytical way, offering interpretations and understanding your early development.

As a counsellor, I am still interested in exploring early development, and doing deep long-term work, but am more likely to seek your interpretations than to offer my own.

Neither of these is legally protected, and so technically anyone can use either of these labels for themselves. If someone is offering counselling or psychotherapy, I would advise checking that they are a practising member of a legitimate governing body such as the BACP or UKCP.

What does it mean when a counsellor says they are psychodynamic, relational, humanistic etc.?

There are many terms in this industry that counsellors and therapists use to describe themselves that aren’t intuitive unless you have a background in counselling or psychotherapy. While there are important differences in each of these approaches, I would suggest that the most important factor in seeking a new counsellor or psychotherapist is whether or not you feel safe with them.

I personally have trained as a Humanistic Integrative therapist, meaning that I am trained in many modalities of counselling, and am focused on finding which style works best for you.

You can find a helpful breakdown on what a lot of these terms mean here: https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy/

What's the difference between private and NHS counselling?

NHS counselling is free of charge as part of nationalised healthcare. Due to this, the service provided can be limited. Most often, clients seeking counselling through the NHS will be provided 6-12 weeks of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Many clients find this limited style of counselling is not for them as it can be specific to one issue, and the time limitation of 12 weeks means that issues cannot be fully unpacked. 

Seeking counselling privately means you will be able to choose the style of counselling you want, with a counsellor you feel safe with. It also means you can work with them for as long as you like.

How many sessions will I need?

The answer to this can vary greatly. Some clients might say that the work they do in counselling is never finished, whereas others report that they feel better after a few months.

Many clients who are new to counselling can come in with the expectation that they have one acute issue they would like to resolve in counselling over a short number of sessions, only to discover that they would like ongoing sessions. If, for example, you can only afford a limited number of sessions, it can be helpful to set an expectation ahead of time, so you can work with your counsellor to make the most of the time you have.

Is it better to have counselling in-person or online?

There are advantages to both styles of counselling. Many clients enjoy the convenience of online work, as it means they do not have to commute to and from counselling. However, many clients see value in having a separate space to engage with heavy themes in their life. Moreover, clients sometimes feel more connected to their counsellors when working in person. These preferences are individual and so I would advise listening to what feels best for you. I offer hybrid counselling, meaning sessions can be online or in-person as and when you would like.