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Finding the right therapist can be life-changing for personal growth and emotional healing, but unfortunately, not all therapists are legally required to have formal qualifications. Unlike professions such as solicitors or architects, the title “psychologist” is not legally protected in the UK. This means anyone- regardless of training- can call themselves a psychologist and offer therapy. Since determining whether to go to therapy is an important decision for your mental wellbeing, ensuring you receive the right treatment from a qualified professional is essential. To help you make an informed choice, we spoke to Dr. Bradley Powell, Clinical Psychologist at Nos Curare Mental Health Clinic, who shares 7 key checks to consider before choosing an accredited therapist.
Dr. Bradley Powell spearheaded a national petition calling for the legal protection of the “psychologist” title, which gathered over 12,000 signatures and caught the attention of government officials. The petition aimed to ensure that only those with proper training and accreditation can use the title, protecting vulnerable individuals from potentially unsafe therapy.
Why is proper accreditation so important when choosing a therapist?
“When people seek psychological support, they assume that ‘psychologists’ are qualified professionals. But in reality, anyone can call themselves a psychologist without any formal education or clinical training. This loophole puts vulnerable individuals at risk of ineffective or even harmful interventions. With mental health services under strain and many people seeking private therapy due to lengthy NHS waiting lists, it’s essential that the public be aware of the risks posed by unqualified professionals. Mental health care should be safe, ethical, and evidence-based so this gap in regulation must close before any more harm is done.”
What can patients do to ensure they are choosing an accredited therapist?
1. Check for HCPC registration
“The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the official regulatory body for Clinical, Counselling, Educational, Forensic, and Health Psychologists. If your therapist claims to be a psychologist, verify their credentials on the HCPC register. Registration ensures they have completed rigorous training and adhere to strict ethical standards.”
2. Enquire about their qualifications
“Becoming a regulated psychologist in the UK takes between 7-9 years, including doctoral-level training and supervised clinical practice. If a therapist cannot provide proof of their qualifications, it’s a major red flag.”
3. Beware of misleading titles
“While titles like “Clinical Psychologist” are protected by law, the broader term “psychologist” is not. This loophole allows individuals without accredited training to mislead the public. Always verify what type of psychologist they claim to be.”
4. Look for professional memberships
“Reputable psychologists often belong to professional organisations such as the British Psychological Society (BPS) or the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Membership in these bodies indicates adherence to ethical and professional standards.”
5. Ask about their approach
“Qualified therapists use evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). If a therapist promotes vague, unproven, or “miracle” treatments, research into whether these are regulated and reputable practices.”
6. Research their reviews and reputation
“Look for client testimonials, independent reviews, or referrals from trusted medical professionals. A well-established therapist should have a track record of ethical and effective care.”
7. Trust your instincts
“Even if a therapist appears qualified, the right fit is essential. If something feels off-whether it’s their credentials, communication style, or approach- don’t hesitate to seek another professional or get a second opinion.”
