Comments from MP about 'unregulated private sector' of therapists...

Just in case anyone saw or heard comments from Stephen Kinnock MP this week regarding the ‘unregulated private sector' of therapists contributing to an ‘overdiagnosis' of mental health conditions and being concerned about how easy it is for people to set up as a therapist and start charging for it within the next day.

As a private therapist I wanted to reassure clients and those looking for counselling with me....

1. Counsellors/Therapists don't diagnose any mental health conditions, its not our job to. Our job is to provide a safe space for people to explore their worries and concerns.

2. I studied over a period of 10 years for my qualifications which allow me to be an autism specialist counsellor. Yes, there are some online courses out there that promise you a counselling qualification in 6 weeks for £25, but not mine! Mine involved a 3 year undergraduate degree with work placement minimum of 100 counselling hours, a post-graduate degree, a post-graduate diploma, ongoing monthly clinical supervision and continuous CPD.

3. I am a member of a professional body, following ethical guidelines and professional standards.

I have insurance and I am DBS checked.

If you are looking for a counsellor/therapist I would absolutely encourage you to check out the credentials of the counsellor/therapist you would like to work with.

Do a bit of research and ask questions! I am always happy to provide information when asked ☺

Here's a link to how my professional body is challenging this: https://ncps.com/blog/posts/ncps-response-to-stephen-kinnock-mp-minister-of-state-for-care-regarding-an-unregulated-private-sector-of-counsellors-and-therapists?fbclid=IwY2xjawJPt5lleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHRsohxhyFO3mpcv3HggAYqg-tMWyfDJnUVVxGyXRnSdmVJqZHmy0lPojwA_aem_Nhtl9kR6Hk9Qih4Fe10fWA