How to find a counsellor?

[Bugsy]

I have a lumpy personal issue (not sexual or marriage related) that I would really like to discuss with someone. I don't particularly want to go through my GP as it is not really a mental health thing. I just have an enormous can of wriggly worms that has recently expanded exponentially and I need to bore someone to tears with and try and get straight in my head. How do I find the right person? Any suggestions would be very helpful.

We're all here bugsy. Alternatively, do you work? (paid outside the home that is) Some larger companies have confidential consellers that their employees can talk to.

Bugsy, might the Samaritans be able to help? Listening is what they do...

BUGSY, The samaritans are good at listening, but if you want some feedback and to begin to work through issues, I would suggest the following:

• via GP, ask for referral to counsellor or clinical psychologist;

• privately, look for a local counsellor who is BAC (British Association of Counsellors) trained. This guarantees professional and ethical conduct and clinical expertise.

I hope this is helpful and that you are able to sort out some issues. Good luck.

Bugsy, here is a link Therapy Index

I think this might tell you their qualifications and specialist areas. If this one doesn't I know there is a site that does. My workplace provided me with six free counselling sessions. They were excellent.

If you want someone to listen and help you come to a solution about specific problems, I think the type of counsellor to look out for is a cognitive therapist...sorry I have no idea how to find a good one.

This site might also help:

British Association for Counselling

Thank you all. BAC site was very helpful & I've made a few enquiries.
I do have access to a work phoneline thing but it is limited and I am reluctant to go through work for this - never quite believe the confidential bit.