Finding a therapist - where do you start?

[MaggieW]

Someone close to me has realised and admitted that they are depressed - a big step in itself. They now want to see a therapist. I said I'd help to find one but I don't know where to start. Can anyone advise please?

I would suggest that your friend sees their GP and asks for a recommendation. Anyone can set themselves up as a therapist, and the GP will know which ones in your area are reputable.

I was referred by my GP - had PND and wasnt getting enough support from anyone apart from ONE friend (people cant deal with depression)

advise your friend to goto GP

GP is a good starting point, as long as they realise that counselling through a GP surgery usually has a long waiting list and they will probably only be offered a short number of sessions.

If they can afford to pay for it, they could contact the BACP (British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists). Some local hospitals also sometimes have a list of accredited local counsellors/therapists.

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