What to look for
Counsellors and psychotherapists support people through anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship difficulties, trauma, addiction, and life transitions. The profession is voluntarily regulated through accredited bodies (BACP, UKCP, BABCP, COSCA), each with their own training standards, supervision requirements, and ethical frameworks.
- BACP, UKCP, BABCP, or COSCA accredited / registered status
- Recognised training (Level 4 minimum for accreditation)
- Supervision arrangement explained
- Modality matching your need (CBT, integrative, person-centred, EMDR)
- Initial assessment session before commitment
- Ethical framework and complaints process disclosed
Typical pricing: £50-£85 per session, £80-£140 specialist (EMDR, sex therapy), £900-£1,800 typical short-term contract (UK 2026)
Regulator / certification to look for: BACP, UKCP, BABCP, COSCA (voluntary professional bodies)