Some things to note before choosing a counsellor

FINDING the right person to deal with your counselling requirements is the first step when considering one-to-one therapy. This not only negates the chances of a mismatch between you and your counsellor, but also saves you time and money.

In some cases you may be referred to a specific counsellor suited to your needs. But if you’re embarking on choosing one on your own, take time and do your homework. The obvious starting point is assessing the counsellor’s credentials, their qualifications, that they are regulated, etc. There is nothing at all wrong with someone assessing a therapist in the pre-therapy stages to get the right person.

Shop around before you choose. Ask questions like ‘ how long they have been practising?’ Ask about their qualifications in their field and experience, bearing in mind that an experienced counsellor might be good, but an emerging one might be just as good.

Asking what field they specialise in and the approach they use with clients is another question to ask. Some people will ask who the counsellor is accredited with, which is fine if you want to be totally at ease before commencing therapy. Remember, your mental health is a precious thing that needs to be minded and kept in good order. Know that the therapist you’re selecting is cognisant of this (which, in fairness, 99.99 percent of them are)

Ireland has a number of accreditation bodies that work to maintain standards and ensure a professional approach to clients is paramount. For example, you could check with the

Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy; the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy, and the Psychological Society of Ireland. Any of these bodies will carry an extensive list of members that will be more than capable and suited to meeting your needs.

Of course, word of mouth is another excellent way to acquire a good counsellor. Maybe someone you know, a friend of a friend, had a positive experience with a counsellor in your locality. Whatever you do, take the time to pick the best fit for you.