Psychological Therapists: Who They Are and What they Do
Therapists are trained to help individuals make sense of their feelings, thoughts and behaviour. This article outlines who therapists are, their training, and the variety of therapeutic methods they use.
Defining the Psychological Therapist
A psychological therapist is a professional trained to provide therapy focusing on mental and emotional challenges. Their expertise lies in understanding human behaviour, thought processes, and emotional responses, enabling them to address a spectrum of issues, from anxiety and depression, to stress, relationship problems, and PTSD and trauma.
Professions Within Psychological Therapy
Therapist is a generic term that applies to anyone providing therapy. Various professionals may call themselves a therapist, including:
Clinical Psychologists: Trained to doctorate level, competence with at least two psychological approaches (e.g. CBT and EMDR), skilled at interpreting research and clinical evidence and using this to guide treatment approach.
Counselling Psychologists: Focus on helping clients cope with everyday life challenges, from personal issues to transitional phases like adolescence or retirement.
Psychoanalysts: Use techniques rooted in Freudian theory, delving into unconscious patterns and past experiences to guide healing.
Psychotherapists: Another general term, these therapists may utilise various therapy modalities to support emotional and mental well-being.
Training of Psychological Therapists
Embarking on a career as a psychological therapist requires both academic learning and hands on experiences. A typical path involves obtaining a Master's or Doctorate degree in psychology or a related field, followed by supervised clinical practice. Continual learning and staying abreast of the latest research and techniques are also crucial components of a therapist's professional journey.
The Impetus for Seeking Psychological Therapy
The motivations for reaching out to a psychological therapist are as diverse as they are personal:
Self-Exploration: Some seek therapy to achieve greater self-awareness and understand deep-seated patterns.
Psychological issues: Issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief sometimes prompt individuals to reach out for a trained therapist.
Life Events: Challenging situations, whether a relationship breakdown, grief, or other significant transitions, can be made more navigable with professional support.
In Conclusion
Receiving psychological support is becoming more mainstream in the UK, and more people are therefore looking for a therapist. Understanding the different types of therapist is helpful when looking for support.