In short
- When choosing a therapist in the UK, check they belong to a professional body such as the BACP or UKCP, because 'counsellor' and 'therapist' are not protected titles.
- Registered and accredited therapists work to an ethical framework, have regular supervision, and offer a clear complaints route if something goes wrong.
- Different therapy approaches suit different difficulties, and many therapists combine approaches depending on what you need.
- The relationship with your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of whether therapy helps, so notice whether you feel comfortable enough to be honest with them.
Looking for a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you are already struggling. A few simple checks make it much easier.
Check registration
In the UK, “counsellor” and “therapist” are not protected titles. Look for membership of a professional body such as the BACP or UKCP, and check the therapist on the public register. Registered and accredited members work to an ethical framework, have regular supervision, and there is a clear complaints route if something goes wrong.
Think about approach
Different approaches suit different difficulties. CBT and exposure and response prevention (ERP) have a strong evidence base for anxiety and OCD. Person‑centred therapy offers a warm, open space to explore. Many therapists, including me, combine approaches depending on what you need.
Consider practicalities
Location, cost and availability matter. In a city the size of London, think about which areas are easy for you to get to, whether you’d prefer in‑person or online sessions, and what times you can reliably make each week.
“The relationship with your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of whether therapy helps.”
Questions to ask on an intro call
- How do you usually work with what I’m describing?
- How long does therapy tend to last?
- What happens if I want to stop or take a break?
- How do confidentiality and its limits work?
Most of all, notice how it feels to talk to them. Feeling comfortable enough to be honest matters a great deal.
Common questions
Can anyone call themselves a therapist in the UK?
Yes. 'Counsellor' and 'therapist' are not protected titles in the UK, so it is worth checking the therapist on the public register of a professional body such as the BACP or UKCP.
Which type of therapy is best for anxiety or OCD?
CBT and exposure and response prevention (ERP) have a strong evidence base for anxiety and OCD. Person-centred therapy offers a warm, open space to explore, and some therapists combine these approaches.
Should I choose in-person or online therapy in London?
It depends on what works for you. In a city the size of London, think about which areas are easy for you to get to, whether you'd prefer in-person or online sessions, and what times you can reliably make each week.
This article is general information, not a substitute for therapy or medical advice. If you are in crisis, call 999 or the Samaritans on 116 123.
