Therapy - some questions

[Piplette]

I've been considering getting therapy on and off for a while now.

I don't have one big issue to address - but I'd like to become a better, more patient and empathetic person for the sake of my children. There are some definite underlying issues from my childhood (creepy, inappropriate uncle, horrendous bullying in school) and while I'm sure they have a lasting affect its not my main concern.

I know therapy is really big in America but less so here - and because I don't have one specific issue I don't know where to start; what type of therapist do I need? How often should I see them? How much will it cost? Is it even useful for people like me or is it more beneficial for people who have larger issues to tackle?

Would really appreciate peoples thoughts - I don't actually know of anyone personally who has had therapy so really have no clue!

A good place to start would be Counselling Directory or BACP (British Association of Counselling and Pychotherapy) because everyone on there has to be qualified as counsellor.
You can enter key word searches based on what you want counselling for.

It's really important to talk to any counsellors before making an appointment. Having someone you feel comfortable with is vital.

I hope that you find the support you need

Have a look at: www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/talking-therapy-and-counselling/about-talking-therapies/

And: www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/talking-therapy-and-counselling/what-happens-in-therapy/

I’m a therapist.

Look on ukcp or bacp website. Meet with a few therapists or counsellors and see what fits. You might find someone at a local centre which is cheaper - usually (but not always) people advertising on those sites are doing it from their own private practice.

Locations which have a training centre will often have student therapists too which is cheaper - if you’re in a major city this can be an option.

Second the recommendation for counselling directory. I found my therapist there.

I'd start off seeing a counsellor as they can help you get to the bottom of what you want to address. That is how I started and eventually we came to the conclusion that I needed a specific type of therapy and he helped me find a therapist who specialises in it.

You sound like you’d do well with someone who practices in a relational way, humanistic eg person centred, gestalt or transactional analysis. Those types of therapy are about growth and development rather than treatment as such, I’d echo the suggestion to meet or speak to a couple before you settle on someone - you want someone you can connect with.

I think everyone should have therapy. It’s bloody brilliant.

You don’t have have something specific I don’t think… and any skilled therapist will soon figure out where to probe more…

Good luck!