Finding the right therapist
It is important that you feel comfortable with your therapist. This will depend on your own personality and that of the therapist. Read our advice on finding the right therapist for you.
Talking therapies: counselling, psychotherapy, CBT
What should I look for in a therapist?
You might want to use a therapist who has experience or an understanding of the effects of dementia.
You may need to speak to several different therapists before you find the right person. It is also important to check that the therapist:
- is accredited by the relevant professional body
- abides by a professional code of ethics
- has regular ongoing professional supervision to ensure safe and ethical practice
- discusses their approach, confidentiality, fees (if applicable), length of sessions and responsibilities (yours and theirs) with you before committing to sessions.
What is the best way to find a therapist?
Your GP is a good place to start if you are looking for a therapist. Talking therapies accessed through the NHS are usually free of charge.
Many of the talking therapies for depression and anxiety mentioned in this factsheet are now available through an NHS programme called Improving Access to Psychological Therapies.
Your doctor can refer you to a local IAPT service where you will be assessed and offered support. This could include signposting to relevant activities, self-help materials or psychological therapies. Some IAPT services also now offer people the option to refer themselves without having to go through their GP.
GPs can often provide details of other local therapists and some GP surgeries have talking therapy services based in their practices. While talking therapies are becoming increasingly available, you may still find that there is a wait before you are seen.
Your GP or local social services department may also have information about local charities offering services – the number of your local social services department will be in the phone book.
Finding a private therapist
Another option is to find a private therapist. There are many ways to find a private therapist but a recommendation from someone you trust – or possibly also your GP – can be very helpful. Most private services operate a sliding scale for fees.
- The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) can provide more information about local counselling and psychotherapy services.
- For an accredited CBT therapist, contact the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).
- For a clinical psychologist or counselling psychologist, contact the British Psychological Society (BPS).