Making your choice
It is likely that there will be more than one practitioner to choose from in your area of the country. BACP Accredited Counsellors, Trainers and Supervisors have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by the Association. These practitioners are clearly indicated in bold black and will have the letters ’BACP’ in the ’Registration/accreditation’ column for their entry.

However there may be other considerations to be taken into account, and the details provided will give useful information including the practitioner’s training, experience and special interests. Below is a brief explanation of the information we list, and how it can help you find a practitioner who meets your specific needs.

I am registered/accredited with: tells you which organisation the individual is registered or accredited with.
My Code(s) of Ethics is: tells you which organisation’s Code of Ethics the practitioner is covered by.
My qualifications are: tells you what qualifications the practitioner has achieved. Common qualifications such as diplomas, degrees and certificates, and subject topics such as counselling, are abbreviated. Most practitioners also give the year in which they achieved the qualification. This should give you an indication of the depth of their experience.
I have special interest/experience in: tells you in what areas the practitioner may have specialised work-experience or training, e.g. relationships, cancer or depression. It may be a good idea to seek a practitioner who has specific experience that can meet your needs.
My theoretical approach is: tells you the way in which the practitioner approaches their counselling/psychotherapy service. For example, Jungian and Freudian approaches relate to the work of specific psychotherapists. In general, theoretical approach is less important than the quality of the counsellor. In some situations though, theoretical approach can be important.
I see: tells you which types of clients the practitioner often sees. For example, some practitioners are specially trained to work with couples, families or groups. More information/explanation about this may also be found in the Additional information section.
This is how I work: tells you how the practitioner works. For example, you may feel you require a set amount of sessions (time-limited), or are sure you will require the practitioners services over a longer period of time (long-term face-to-face work).
I also work in: tells you if the practitioner speaks a language other than English. For some languages, you might need to search for a counsellor in another county to your own.
Additional information: gives you more information about the practitioner. This will help you build up a more distinctive picture of their experiences & background.
My fees: tells you what the practitioner charges for a session, which is normally 1 hour. You may also find here additional information about reduced fees (concessions) and to whom they apply. Few practitioners can afford to work for nothing, so for free or low cost counselling you need to look at the organisations.
Only you can decide whether a practitioner will be right for you. Before deciding on your therapist, do not be afraid to ask questions or request further information. Most practitioners will be happy to provide additional information over the phone. Then ask yourself if you would feel comfortable telling this person intimate details of your life. Do you feel safe with them? Do you like their manner towards you? Could you be completely open with them?