What is counselling/psychotherapy?

Counselling and psychotherapy, although two completely different terms, are both essentially the same thing. Both counsellors and psychotherapists provide a service for people who are looking for support and treatment for a wide range of mental health and emotional issues. The possibility that there is a difference between the two is a heavily debated question in the field of mental health treatment, and one that has yet to be answered. Some experts claim that counselling tends to tackle problems at the time of the crises, whereas psychotherapy focuses on long-term, deeply embedded psychological problems. Having trained extensively in both traditions culminating in me holding qualifications as both a counsellor and psychotherapist, I feel I have experienced the best of both worlds allowing me to utilise both skill sets and integrate them effectively in my therapeutic practice.

Whether you choose a counsellor or psychotherapist, the main thing is to choose the right individual. How you connect with the counsellor or psychotherapist you choose is likely to determine how successful the treatment is. It is also helpful to have a little knowledge on the different therapies on offer. There are many different therapies that can be used by counsellors and psychotherapists, some involve looking at past relationships and experiences to make sense of them, and others involve looking at the 'here and now'. As a Gestalt therapist my work is rooted in the ‘here and now’ where the past, present and future all merge in the now.

What are the different therapies used?

Psychological therapies generally fall into three categories. These are behavioural therapies, which focus on cognitions and behaviours, psychoanalytical and psychodynamic therapies, which focus on the unconscious relationship patterns that evolved from childhood, and humanistic therapies, which focus on looking at the 'here and now'. This is a generalisation though and counselling and psychotherapy usually overlaps some of these techniques. My core training and methodology used is Gestalt therapy which falls into the humanistic therapy field. 

How do I know if I need counselling/psychotherapy?

Only you can decide whether you wish to try counselling or psychotherapy. Just talking to someone confidentially who is not a friend or family member can make all the difference. Counselling or psychotherapy provides a regular time for those in distress to explore their feelings and talk about their problems. A psychotherapist can help you develop better ways of coping, allowing you to live the life you deserve.

How many people in the UK have counselling or psychotherapy?

The figures are uncertain, however, the number of qualified counsellors has tripled in the last 10 years to keep up with demand. There are millions of people all over the world affected by mental health problems. Those who do not experience some form of mental distress at some time during their lives are probably fairly unusual and extremely lucky.

Are counsellors or psychotherapists regulated?

Counsellors and psychotherapists are not currently regulated in the UK.

What is registration/accreditation with a professional body?

Lots of counsellors and psychotherapists are members of a professional body. Professional bodies ensure counsellors and psychotherapists work to certain standards of good practice as a professional.

I am Accredited by the UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and a member of BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) & SCPTI (Scarborough Psychotherapy Training Institute).

What training, qualifications and experience should counsellors and psychotherapists have?

There are currently no laws in the UK regarding counselling and psychotherapy. However guidelines recommend that, in order to practice, counsellors should have completed at least an appropriate diploma or completed a minimum of 400 hours therapy training.

I Hold a Level 2 & 3 in Counselling Skills coupled with a Level 4 Diploma in Humanistic Counselling. I then completed a further four years training post counselling qualification culminating in me successfully gaining a U.K.C.P Accredited Diploma in Gestalt therapy at Masters equivalent level.

How long does each counselling sessions last?

Each session will usually last 50 minutes or one hour . However this is often flexible and should be discussed with Alex on your assessment session.

How regularly will I see my counsellor or psychotherapist?

Many counsellors and psychotherapists offer weekly sessions, however this can vary depending on the type of therapy and your personal requirements.

Do I have to pay for therapy sessions?

Fees often depend on the experience of the counsellor/psychotherapist. On average, I charge £35 per 50 minute session. I can offer reductions for the unemployed or those on a low income, so it's always worth asking.

If you go to your GP, school or a charitable organisation, some sessions are often free of charge, but you will need to check this with them directly.

Can I have counselling by email or telephone?

In this day and age lots of counsellors and psychotherapists offer online, and telephone counselling if you'd rather not see them face to face. I can offer the same, dependant on a thorough assessment being undertaken.