Is anyone here a Psychologist/Psychotherapist/Counsellor?

[CareerChangeMum]

I want to go back to work and change careers but I'm not sure how to go about this.

I have a Psychology degree - it's a desmond, but it's from a Russell Group university. I have a very strong interest in psychology, especially since having children, though I am not sure that it was my real passion at university.

I have small children and think/& have been advised that as my husband works exceptionally long hours and I have little support, it is not going to be possible to become a Chartered Psychologist. I should add that I am late 40s.

I am, however, really interested in becoming a psychotherapist. My problem here is that the time and money commitment is scaring me. I am finding it hard to find out how much it is likely to train (I know this is a bit of a 'how long is a piece of string' question) and exactly what is involved.

I know pretty much anyone can call themselves a counsellor after a short course, and I don't want a short course with no depth, but I am wondering if there is a qualification that is robust, but less time/money intensive than the whole 6 year psychotherapy training?

Any help, or links to helpful websites would be most grateful received.

Many thanks.

How about doing an into to counselling course to find out if you like it? Apparently loads of people go off the idea of being a counsellor/psychotherapist as its sooo full on.

also how about
organisational psychology
careers counselling

both can be done with big doses of distance learning

Thanks Ekidna. Good idea. Also careers counselling would fit in with my past work history - do you know anything about it?

OP I've emailed you war and peace on the subject

Thank you so much . I have just replied.

Ekidna - sorry to hijack but would you mind pm-img me any info too? Have just obtained a first in psychology from OU and in similar position to OP. Thankyou. Good luck OP.

Hi,
I'm a chartered psychologist. I was wondering if you have considered the psychological wellbeing practitioner courses? Many universities do these and they enable you to work using low intensity therapies with people with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. They are accredited by universities and I think take a year full time or two part time. I think that the qualification enables you to work in the NHS (or privately) as a psychological wellbeing pracitioner using CBT and similar therapies.

Just marking place. Another first in psychology from ou here ( initial degree oxbridge). Had hoped to go down chartered route but not sure the training years will work with family and looking at other options.

Trailing that sounds extremely interesting. I can only see a masters course at UCL - do you know any others?

Beatrice & Silkwood - oooh, look at you two with your firsts! Well done! (Just make sure you're not applying for the same jobs as me pls!).

I know there's one at Essex university. For London, you could try the tavi.

Hi, don't want to hijack the thread but am looking to make a move into HR with a view to eventually becoming an Organisational Psychologist so just marking my place. Any advice gratefully received

What did mrtu say?