If you’re considering therapy in Newcastle, it’s important to find the right professional who can provide the support and guidance you need. Choosing a therapist can be daunting, but you can make the best decision possible by knowing what to look for and what questions to ask. This article will explore the key factors to consider when choosing a therapist or counsellor in Newcastle.
Understanding the Different Types of Therapists
Before we dive into choosing a therapist, let’s cover the different types of mental health professionals you may encounter:
- Psychiatry vs Psychology
- Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders. They can prescribe medications and provide psychotherapy or referrals for other therapy.
- Psychologists have doctoral degrees in Psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and focus on emotional and behavioural aspects of mental health through therapy and non-medical interventions. They may specialise in clinical psychology, counselling psychology, or educational psychology.
- Psychotherapists provide talking therapies to help individuals with emotional, behavioural, and mental health issues. They may have backgrounds in psychology, social work, or counselling.
- Counsellors offer support and guidance to individuals facing life challenges like relationship issues, stress, anxiety, or grief. They usually have a diploma or degree in counselling.
Check qualifications and accreditations.
When choosing a therapist or counsellor, it’s important to ensure they have the right qualifications and accreditation. In the UK, there are several professional bodies that regulate and accredit mental health professionals, including:
- British Psychological Society (BPS): The professional body for UK psychologists. Look for psychologists with Chartered Psychologist status and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP): The BACP is the largest professional body for UK counsellors and psychotherapists. Accredited therapists meet rigorous training, experience, and ethical practice standards.
- UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP): The UKCP is another leading professional body for psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors. UKCP-registered therapists have completed extensive training and adhere to high standards of practice.
When researching potential therapists or counsellors, ask to see their qualifications and accreditations before attending any sessions if they aren’t publicly displayed on their website or profile.
As a professional therapy provider here in the North East, we display the qualifications and accreditations of all our therapists on their profile pages.
Questions to Ask
Before deciding on a therapist, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for you. Here are some key questions to consider:
- What is your educational background and training?
- Are you accredited by any professional bodies, such as the BPS, BACP, or UKCP?
- What is your approach to therapy, and how does it align with my needs and goals?
- What experience do you have in treating individuals with similar issues to mine?
- How long are the therapy sessions, and how frequently will we meet?
- What are your fees, and do you offer sliding scale options or accept insurance?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- How do you ensure confidentiality?
Feel free to ask any additional questions that are important to you. A reputable therapist or counsellor will be happy to answer your questions and provide the information you need to make an informed decision.
Therapeutic Approach and Specialisation
When choosing a therapist, you need to consider the different approaches they take. Research the different approaches to understand which one resonates with you the most and aligns with your personal needs and goals. Examples of therapeutic approaches and talking therapies, include:
- Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT)
- Couples Therapy
Additionally, consider whether the therapist or counsellor has experience in treating the specific issues you are facing, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems.
A therapist who has expertise in your area of concern is more likely to provide you with effective support.
Personal Fit and Comfort
Choosing a therapist is an intimate and personal decision. Ultimately, the success of therapy depends on the relationship between you and your therapist. It’s essential to find someone with whom you feel comfortable, safe, and understood. Trust your instincts and pay attention to how you feel during your initial interactions with potential therapists.
Many therapists offer a brief consultation or introductory session, which can be a good opportunity to assess your comfort level and determine if there is a good fit. Don’t hesitate to explore multiple options until you find a therapist or counsellor who feels right for you.
Accessibility and Logistics
When choosing a therapist, consider practical factors such as location, availability, and cost. Most professional therapists offer online sessions, especially since the COVID Pandemic. However, it is hard to replace the positive impact of in-person sessions, especially for talking therapies.
For example, offer a range of therapy solutions in various locations across the North East, including:
Look for a professional who is conveniently located near you and offers appointments that fit your schedule.
Choosing A Therapist
After gathering information, asking questions, and considering the various factors discussed above, you’re ready for the final step. Choosing a therapist. Remember that finding the right therapist or counsellor is a personal process. What works for someone else may not necessarily work for you.
It’s also not a permanent decision. If you feel your therapist is not right for you, try another until you find the right fit. Therapy is a journey, not a destination. Take the time to get the match right.
Trust your instincts and choose a therapist or counsellor who you believe can provide the support, guidance, and expertise you need to work through your challenges and achieve your goals. If you find that the relationship isn’t meeting your needs after a few sessions, discuss your concerns with your therapist or explore other options.
Conclusion
Choosing the right therapist in Newcastle is a crucial step in your journey towards mental well-being. You can make an informed decision and find a therapist who can provide the support you need by understanding the different types of therapy, checking qualifications and accreditation, asking the right questions, considering therapeutic approach and specialisation, assessing personal fit, and taking into account accessibility and logistics.
Remember, seeking therapy is a brave and proactive step towards improving your mental health and overall well-being. With the right therapist by your side, you can work through challenges, develop coping strategies, and build a foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
If you would like help choosing a therapist in the North East please contact us for a confidential discussion, or book an appointment directly through our therapist matching portal.