There are a multitude of reasons you may seek the guidance of a therapist in London. People’s lives are complex, and a therapist can help them to unpack and manage their feelings and therefore lives more effectively. Paul Barrett is an integrative psychotherapist based in Chelsea and Little Venice. He has a full clinical accreditation as a UKCP counsellor and psychotherapist. He is also a member of the BACP and CCPE and follows their codes of conduct and ethics.
When looking for a therapist in London you need to take your time and ensure you find the right connection. Choosing a therapist is not a procedure you should rush, and it is essential you are able to feel comfortable and safe with your chosen therapist. Let’s look more closely at some of the important steps in the process of finding the right therapist for you.
Do your Research
Researching your therapist is very important. Finding a therapist in London is easy with a quick Google search but this shouldn’t be the beginning and end of your research. You should look into different therapists working in the area you need. You should also take the time to research different types of therapy to see if a particular kind suits your needs. Therapists may offer group therapy, for example, which may or may not be something you are interested in.
Explore their Experience
If you have a particular issue to discuss with your therapist, look for those who specialise in this field. Consider it as you would a medical appointment – if you needed a new sight prescription, you wouldn’t visit the dentist. The same applies to therapists. You will find those who specialise in many different fields and if you look into the experience of each before making a final decision.
Make Connections
Therapy appointments can be nerve-wracking, but it is important to try and make early connections with you chosen therapist. Many therapists offer initial consultations. This can be a great starting point to see whether you are a good fit. You can ask questions about their treatment processes and philosophies and see whether they fit well with your hopes and expectations. After the consultation, take time to evaluate how you feel and whether the person you’ve just met seems able to help and support you through the process. You may not feel an instant connection and it may be uncomfortable at first, but a good therapist should put you at ease and provide you with a safe environment to explore your thoughts and feelings.
Paul Barrett offers counselling in Chelsea, London with a range of different options available. For more information or to make an appointment, please contact Paul Barrett’s PA, Sally: sally@paul-barrett.co.uk.