I was devastated when I heard the details of a recent court case involving a so-called therapist who had acted in ways no ethical professional ever should. Then, as if that weren’t enough, I watched a fictional therapist in the latest season of a detective series behave in ways that were just as appalling. It’s frustrating—and heartbreaking—to see my profession misrepresented and, worse, to know that real people are being harmed by those who call themselves therapists without the training, ethics, or accountability to back it up.
It made me stop and ask: What can I do about it? I can’t change the legal loopholes that allow anyone to call themselves a therapist in the UK. I can’t rewrite TV scripts to reflect the thousands of competent, ethical professionals who do this work with integrity every day. But I can share what I know about how to find a therapist who is genuinely qualified to help.
How to Choose a Safe and Competent Therapist
1. Check Their Professional Membership
Unlike doctors or solicitors, therapists in the UK are not legally required to register with a professional body. However, reputable therapists choose to do so. Look for registration with organisations like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). These bodies require accredited training, adherence to ethical guidelines, and ongoing professional development.
2. Ask About Their Training and Experience
A credible therapist will have completed a recognised qualification and have experience in their area of practice. Don’t be afraid to ask about their training, areas of expertise, and years of experience. If they struggle to answer or seem defensive, that’s a red flag.
3. Ensure They Have Regular Clinical Supervision
One of the biggest safeguards for clients is clinical supervision. Ethical therapists meet regularly with a qualified supervisor to discuss their work, ensuring they stay accountable and maintain professional standards. If a therapist doesn’t have supervision, they’re working without a safety net—at your risk.
4. Look for Clear Professional Boundaries
Good therapy provides a safe, structured space. If a therapist overshares personal details, lacks clear boundaries, or makes you feel uncomfortable in any way, trust your instincts.
That said, some discomfort is a natural part of the therapy process—growth and change often come with difficult emotions. The challenge is distinguishing between therapeutic tension, which is a necessary part of working through issues, and unprofessional behaviour, which is never acceptable.
My tip? Bring it into the therapy session. Talk it through with your therapist. A good therapist will welcome the conversation and help you explore what’s happening. If you have doubts about whether discussing your discomfort feels safe, or if your therapist dismisses or invalidates your concerns, that may be a sign this isn’t the right fit for you.
5. Make Sure Their Approach Aligns with Your Needs
Different therapists use different approaches, from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to psychodynamic therapy, coaching, and more. A competent therapist can explain their method in plain language and discuss whether it’s a good fit for you. Beware of anyone who claims to have a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution.
6. Trust Your Gut
Ultimately, therapy is a deeply personal experience. If something feels off—whether it’s a lack of transparency, an uneasy feeling, or a pushy sales pitch—listen to that instinct. You deserve to work with someone who is both qualified and a good fit for you.
The Reality of Therapy in the UK
The sad truth is that anyone can call themselves a therapist in this country, and while most professionals uphold high ethical standards, the lack of regulation means there are gaps in client protection. That’s why it’s crucial to take an active role in choosing your therapist.
For those of us who do this work with integrity, it’s disheartening to see the damage done by unqualified or unethical practitioners. I can’t stop bad therapy from happening, but I can help you find the good. If you’re looking for support, take your time, ask the right questions, and don’t settle for anything less than a therapist who meets the highest standards of professional care.
If you’d like to work with me, I offer a free 15 minute First Step conversation … click here to book.
I’d love to hear from you,
Warmly,
Alison