When initially looking for a therapist there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is to seek a qualified registered or accredited counsellor. The Therapist should be a member of a recognised professional organization. The second, is to seek a therapist who is the correct fit for you.
Once you have established the therapist is qualified, meeting with them is the best way to determine whether you will be comfortable working with this therapist. There are many different approaches to therapy available, however it is widely accepted that the relationship is more important, and perhaps the most important factor in successful therapy outcomes.
All Therapists should register with a professional organisation, such as those found in our Useful Links page, when they begin their training. When they have qualified and have acheived the experience, supervision and training requirements of the organisation they may apply and receive accreditation.
By Registering and becoming accredited, a Therapist agrees to uphold the Code of Ethics of that organization and to be held accountable by them for their work. This is important because it protects the client. If you have a complaint or feel you have been hurt in some way by your work with a Therapist, you can make a complaint to the organization and they will investigate this. This process helps to ensure that the client receives therapy in a safe environment.
A professional Code of Ethics is a list of policies, rules and regulations related to maintaining ethical work practice. Every therapist registered and accredited in an organization agrees through membership to abide by these rules and regulations.
These are intended to ensure safety of the client, work practice and the Therapist and help to guide the work when difficult situations arise. In addition, all Therapists should be attending regular supervision for their work and in helping them employ, understand and maintain the code of ethics and their ethical work practice.
All Therapists should be attending regular supervision as a part
Supervision is the practice of Therapists meeting with a Supervisor to discuss and explore their work with the client so as to help the therapist to help the client more effectively. It is also a completely confidential relationship.
It also serves to keep the therapist and client safe in the work through the outside perspective of the supervisor. From the outside they may be able to spot grey areas or difficulties that could pose ethical dilemmas if not dealt with appropriately.
A Supervisor is a person who has been a Therapist for at least 5 years and has often had the appropriate training to provide supervision to Therapists.
