7 Tips For Finding A Good Therapist

We all have times where we feel overwhelmed or troubled, but sometimes things get too much. Often we need someone to talk to people often think that you have to have a mental health problem to see a therapist but this is not the case. Some people have phobias or may need to work on their self-esteem. Whatever the reason it is important to make sure you seek out a professional person.

Below are some tips on how to find a good therapist.

• Look in a professional directory such as the association of counsellors. Read the reviews and check out the areas of expertise. Look at qualifications.
• Ask friends and families for recommendations
• Ensure the therapist is accredited, you can check this if they are registered as above on the British Association of Counselling, or British Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Psychotherapies.
• Check out costs the average counselling session can vary from £45-90 per session. See if any concessions are offered for people on a low income. It is always good if you can find a therapist who offers consessions.
• Look on mental health charities websites such as MIND and see what services are available. For example improving access to psychological therapies (IAPT) this is an NHS programme which can provide cognitive behavioral therapy for various mental health conditions such as anxiety, or depression. Check out the IAPT website https:/www.england.uk/mental-health/adults/Iapt
• If you are under a community mental health team for something, you may be able to access services this way or be referred by your psychiatrist if you are seeing one.
• See your doctor and ask them to make a referral but bear in mind that sessions on the NHS are normally limited to seven sessions and there is normally a long waiting list.

Also if you have phobias or anxiety you can access services through charities like Anxiety UK but remember often these services are limited.

Good Luck x

Claudette is a passionate campaigner and activist for mental health stigma and domestic abuse. She believes that everyone should be treated equally regardless of their disability or gender. She has diagnoses of Bipolar Disorder, endometriosis, Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia. Claudette has a certificate in Management studies.  Her interests include beauty, makeup, animals politics, current affairs and social networking.

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