Counselling

The advice and support provided by BAPN is NOT the same as that which would be provided by a qualified Counsellor.  However, we are aware that in some circumstances, when members contact us, they'd benefit from the help of a professional Counselling Service  which is why we offer the following advice:

 

Counselling is a talking therapy that involves a trained therapist listening to you and helping you find ways to deal with emotional issues.

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Sometimes the term "counselling" is used to refer to talking therapies in general, but counselling is also a type of therapy in its own right.

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What can counselling help with?

Counselling can help you cope with: 

  • a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety or an eating disorder

  • an upsetting physical health condition, such as infertility

  • a difficult life event, such as a bereavement, a relationship breakdown or work-related stress

  • difficult emotions – for example, low self-esteem or anger

  • other issues, such as sexual identity

  • some work related issues such as anxiety at work, dealing with bullying behaviour, work related stress.

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What to expect from counselling

Counselling can take place:

  • face to face 

  • in a group 

  • over the phone 

  • by email 

  • online through live chat services 

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You may be offered a single session of counselling, a short course of sessions over a few weeks or months, or a longer course that lasts for several months or years.

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It can take a number of sessions before you start to see progress, but you should gradually start to feel better with the help and support of your therapist.

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Can you get free counselling on the NHS?

  • You can get free psychological therapies, including counselling for depression, on the NHS.

  • You don't need a referral from your GP.

  • You can refer yourself directly to a psychological therapies service.

  • Or you can get a referral from your GP if you prefer.

  • Private counselling

  • If you decide to pay to see a private therapist, make sure they're qualified and you feel comfortable with them. 

  • The cost of private counselling can vary depending on where you live, with a session costing anywhere between £10 and £70. 

  • Many private therapists offer an initial free session and lower rates for students, job seekers and those on low incomes. 

  • You should ask about charges and agree a price before starting a course of counselling.

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Charities and voluntary organisations

Some charities and voluntary organisations also offer counselling. These organisations usually specialise in a particular area, such as couples counselling, bereavement or family guidance.

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You don't need a referral from your GP for an appointment for these services, but you may have to pay a fee to cover the cost of your sessions.

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Charities that may offer counselling include:

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You may also be able to access support groups through your local community, church or social services.

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Finding a qualified therapist

As counselling involves talking about sensitive issues and revealing personal thoughts and feelings, your counsellor should be experienced and professionally qualified.

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Reputable therapists will be registered with a professional organisation that's been accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). This means they have met the PSA's required professional standards to practise.

https://www.professionalstandards.org.uk/what-we-do/accredited-registers/find-a-register/-in-category/categories/professions/counselling 

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You can find a qualified therapist through the PSA check a practitioner page. https://www.professionalstandards.org.uk/check-practitioners 

Source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Counselling/