People often ask me ‘what is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?’

In general terms counselling is more a short term process, focussing on a specific issue, whilst psychotherapy is a longer term process which looks for personal growth and change. There is a difference in level of training requirements needed in order to qualify as either a counsellor or psychotherapist.

Psychotherapy training, the core of which is over four years at Masters level, requires the trainee to engage in their own in depth personal therapy. A trainee psychotherapist must meet rigorous clinical training and supervision hours, alongside written assessments, before sitting further oral presentations and examinations. Psychotherapists are trained, not to diagnose mental health issues but, to recognise symptoms of serious mental health difficulty, and to work with individuals once diagnosed.