Some Useful Info

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With so many counsellors trained to different levels and  offering different kinds of therapy, it can be difficult to know what's best: Who is the right counsellor? And what is the right kind of counselling? Here are some suggestions that might help with your search:  

• Ask people you know for a recommendation - perhaps they have some experience of counselling they could share with you.

• Take a look at different practitioners' websites, and also check out professional directories like The Counselling Directory, Psychology Today, and BACP's Therapist Directory.

• Only consider counsellors who are a member of a professional body such as the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) or the NCS (National Counselling Society). This can help to ensure both good practice and accountability.

• Keep in mind that research indicates it is the therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor that has the biggest impact on change, rather than the type of counselling offered.  To this end, talk to different counsellors, and tune in to whether or not you feel safe and supported in their company.

GPs deal with a whole range of health problems, including mental health concerns, so they can be a valuable source of advice and support.

Whatever you're going through, call Samaritans free any time, from any phone on 116 123. You don't have to be suicidal to call them.