How to prepare?
Good therapy can be life-changing and the relationship between therapist and client is fundamentally important. Before you start looking for a therapist, there are some things to think about which will help you find the right therapist for you.
What’s your budget? Therapists normally charge by session and more experienced therapists will probably charge more, so the therapist’s level of experience is also something to think about.
It is very common now for therapists to offer online sessions but if you want to have sessions face-to-face, you’ll need to find someone near enough to make this happen. Face-to-face sessions could be at an office or in the therapist’s home.
Therapists often work standard office hours and it will help in your search if you can commit to a weekly session at the same time on the same day. Its worth knowing they are often busy and may not have a slot open immediately for you.
What to look for?
Unfortunately, anyone can currently advertise as a ‘therapist’ in the UK, even without a formal counselling qualification. That is changing slowly, but while it does, only choose accredited therapists for your safety and protection.
Look for an accreditation by the two central governing bodies (BACP and UKCP) on the practitioners’ profiles. Therapists with these accreditations have been trained to high standards and follow a strict code of ethics. CuraMind only lists Therapists accredited by these two organisations.
How does their profile make you feel? Do you like how they look in their photo? Do you like what they have written about themselves? Trust your instinct. In therapy, the relationship with your therapist will heal you above anything else.
Making contact
Get in touch with more than one therapist, use email or phone, whichever you’re more comfortable with. Ask questions and get to know them a little, they will ask you questions too.
Think about their responses, their style and how they made you feel. Reflect on what you notice in your body and mind. If you don’t feel comfortable, speak to other therapists.
Once you have found someone you like, commit to seeing them for three sessions. If you still like them, commit to seeing them for more!
Your first session
Let the therapist guide the first session, they’re the expert! Don’t overthink it, just share what you’re comfortable with and see how it feels.
This is a ‘get to know you’ session for you and the therapist, so ask any questions that are important to you. Do you trust being vulnerable with this person? The therapist will also be deciding if they can help you. Very occasionally, they will refer you to someone else better able to help.
Don’t expect too much from the first session, therapy takes time to work. Like any relationship, it will take a few meetings to develop trust and enable you to open up. That’s perfectly OK and it won’t happen overnight.
After your first session:
- Did the therapist make you feel heard?
- Do you feel like you can trust them?
- Did they give you the answers you were looking for?
- Did they go at a good pace for you?
- What does your gut say?
If you feel good following your first session and like you could see this person every week, then book your next three sessions and commit to a weekly time. Let the journey begin!
Hello, we are the CuraMind team, and we are dedicated to supporting your mental well-being. Our team comprises experienced therapists, caring individuals, and devoted advocates for mental health.
With our diverse backgrounds and a shared passion for helping others, we’re here to guide you on your journey to better mental health. Each of us brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table, ensuring that you receive the compassionate care you deserve.
Our team members are based in the UK, but our commitment to your well-being knows no boundaries. We are here to stand by your side, providing the support and understanding you need to lead a healthier and happier life.
With care and dedication,
The CuraMind Team
