Feeling stressed? Maybe you are stuck in a rut and don’t know what to do next. Thinking of getting help for a problem? In this blog, I will discuss why choosing the right counsellor or hypnotherapist matters more than you might think.
I know that reaching out for a counsellor or hypnotherapist can make you feel nervous, as past clients have told me this. They have told me they want help, and the right person to help them in the right way. With so many therapists around these days, it can be a struggle to know who to go to.
Many people worry about making the wrong choice.
They worry about being judged.
They worry about wasting time or money.
Some worry they will not be taken seriously.
Some people might be swayed to visit the cheapest counsellor or hypnotherapist. I understand that, but the cheapest might not be the best fit and may result in you needing another therapist in the future, which can cost you more inthe long run. Furthermore, not all counsellors and hypnotherapists advertise their prices, and there could be hidden costs for evening and weekend sessions.
You matter. Getting the right person can help you feel safe, understood and listened to, but most of all, it can help you feel better and get on with your life.
On the flip side, you know that getting the wrong person may result in delays in feeling better, or worse still, you might not get any benefits.
So how do you find the right therapist?
This guide will help you make an informed decision that is right for you. But still ask questions and use your gut feelings also to tell you if you could work together.
1. Check qualifications and professional training.
Not all counsellors and hypnotherapists are trained in the same way or to the same standards.
In the UK, counsellors and hypnotherapists are not regulated, and they might not be trained, so you need to do your homework to feel satisfied that you have someone who is trained and works to a code of conduct.
Organisations that are linked to the Professional Standards Authority and have voluntary regulation include:
The National Hypnotherapy Society
The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society
You have the right to check:
- Where they trained
- How long have they trained for
- Whether their training is recognised
- Whether they continue professional development
A properly trained therapist understands mental health, ethics, and safety.
This protects you.
Counsellors and hypnotherapists often have additional training and qualifications that may relate specifically to your problem. For example, if you are feeling a lot of work stress and want to change jobs, you might find a therapist who also has a qualification and experience in stress management.
2. Make sure that they are ethical.
Ethical practice means adhering to a professional code of conduct from their professional body.
This includes evidence that they offer respect, confidentiality and past clients have found them helpful.
An ethical counsellor or hypnotherapist will:
- Explain confidentiality clearly
- Tell you the limits of therapy
- Maintain professional boundaries
- Work within their competence
- Refer to more qualified or experienced professionals when needed
3. Experience matters especially with your issue
Good training standards are essential, but so is experience in the area you are seeking help with.
It doesn’t matter if you are seeking help for stress, anxiety, bereavement and loss, work or personal issues,you can ask questions.
Ask the therapist about their experiences.
- Do they work regularly with this issue
- How long have they supported clients like you
- Do they explain their approach clearly
You are not being difficult by asking.
You are being sensible.
4. The relationship is as meaningful as the techniques.
There is a lot of research showing that the relationship between the client and the counsellor or hypnotherapist is more important than the techniques they use. This is often described as the therapeutic alliance.
You should feel:
- Listened to
- Taken seriously
- Respected
- Not rushed
You do not need instant trust.
But you should feel safe enough to speak honestly.
And if things don’t feel right, you can tell the therapist or decide to end the sessions.
5. Understand the difference between counselling and hypnotherapy.
Counselling/psychotherapy is a talking therapy. It involves sessions that give you time and a safe space to explore the problem and find acceptance or solutions. It is not about giving advice.
Hypnotherapy uses counselling skills, but it is primarily a therapy of focused attention and imagination to help the person change negative subconscious patterns. Clients don’t need to talk much, as the hypnotherapist does.
6. Online or in person, what suits you best?
Online counselling and hypnotherapy are now well established in the UK and around the world.
Online work can:
- Reduce travel stress
- Increase access
- Fit around work and family
- Feel safer for anxious clients
In contrast, in-person work can suit those who prefer physical presence.
However, what matters most is:
- Skill
- Experience
- Connection
Effective therapy depends on the relationship, not the room.
7. A free consultation can tell you more than any website.
Some websites have a lot of information, while others have little information.
You may also find testimonials and reviews to help you decide on a therapist.
But the most effective way to find out about a counsellor or hypnotherapist and build trust with them is to speak with them.
At Awaken the Change, I offer a free initial consultation so potential clients can ask me questions and determine whether I have the training, experience, and fit for them.
