Counselling and psychotherapy, couples therapy
You can access therapy via three main routes – public sector (NHS, universities, schools and colleges), third sector (voluntary or charitable organisations), and private sector (qualified therapists in private practice). Some workplaces now offer access to a counselling services through an Employee Assistance Scheme.
Whilst therapy provided by public or third sector is usually free (some charities ask for a donation) the waiting lists can be very long. You can usually start therapy straight away when you approach a therapist in private practice but the cost of each session can be anything between £10 and £80.
Many charities and voluntary organisations offer counselling often provided by students in placement. Some third sector counselling services across West Yorkshire are:
Bradford
Doncaster
Leeds
Halifax
Harrogate
Huddersfield
Wakefield:
If you are considering seeing a therapist privately it is important to ensure that they hold appropriate qualifications. They will be a member of a professional body and you will be able to check their registration status on the professional body’s website. That is also where you can search for a therapist in your local area.
Being a member of one of the professional bodies ensures that the therapist completed professional training and is under regular supervision. They are also required to maintain high ethical and professional standards of work and CPD (continuing professional development) is a mandatory requirement for membership.