Question 1

What is therapy?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is a confidential, supportive space where you talk with a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings and experiences. As an integrative therapist, I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches to tailor therapy to your unique needs, rather than following a single rigid model.

Question 2

How do I choose the right therapy for my needs?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the right therapy depends on what you want support with and how you prefer to work. Integrative therapy is flexible and can include elements from different approaches (e.g. person-centred, CBT, psychodynamic) to suit your goals. In your initial consultation we’ll explore your needs and decide if this style feels right for you.

Question 3

What regulatory body governs counselling psychologists in the UK?

Accepted Answer

What regulatory body governs counselling psychologists in the UK?
Counselling Psychologists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The HCPC sets standards for training, professional conduct and ethics to protect the public. You can check my registration on the HCPC register.

Question 4

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, counselling psychologist, psychotherapist and counsellor?

Accepted Answer

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, counselling psychologist, psychotherapist and counsellor?
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specialising in mental health. Their training is around 13–14 years (medical degree, foundation training, and psychiatry specialisation). They can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication. Psychiatrists are regulated by the GMC.

Counselling Psychologist
 A counselling psychologist is a doctoral-level psychologist providing psychological therapy. Their training is around 7–9 years (psychology degree plus doctoral training).
Counselling psychologists are regulated by the HCPC. They use evidence-based talking therapies and do not prescribe medication.

Psychotherapist
A psychotherapist is often trained in a specific therapeutic model (e.g. psychodynamic or CBT). Their training is usually 4–6 years of  training.  Psychotherapists are often registered with UKCP or BACP.

Counsellor
A counsellor is a professionally trained practitioner offering talking therapy. Their  training is typically 2–4 years, depending on the qualification route. They are often registered with BACP.

Each profession offers valuable support. The most appropriate choice depends on what you’re looking for and what feels right for you.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is therapy?

How do I choose the right therapy for my needs?

What regulatory body governs counselling psychologists in the UK?

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, counselling psychologist, psychotherapist and counsellor?