A BROMSGROVE psychotherapist is calling for greater regulation of private sector counsellors over fears growing numbers within the industry are presenting themselves as professionals without the necessary qualifications.
Helen Townsend, an accredited psychotherapist with over 17 years experience, is joining forces with professionals and governing bodies to advocate for government regulation of the sector following growing concerns.
She believes implementing a regulatory framework, such as those provided by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA), would enhance the quality and safety of counselling services while protecting the public from potentially harmful practices.
With the NHS struggling to meet demand due to excessive waiting lists and restrictive criteria for Talking Therapies, many people are turning to the private sector for support.
But the lack of regulation in the UK means vulnerable individuals are at risk of encountering unsafe practices.
Helen recently met with Bromsgrove MP Bradley Thomas to discuss the urgent need for mandatory government regulations for counselling and psychotherapy services.
Mr Thomas thanked Helen – who he said had helped many constituents – for raising the issue, adding he supported her cause.
“I look forward to working with Helen as we seek to protect patients and promote the valuable work of accredited counsellors and psychotherapists.”
Further support
Labour’s health minister Stephen Kinnock has also pointed out issues with unregulation and Health Secretary Wes Streeting noted an ‘overdiagnosis’ of mental health conditions.
It is believed social media platforms have exacerbated the problem, with advertisements promoting quick-fix courses such as ‘become a counsellor in a weekend’.
These courses allow individuals to set up counselling services in their communities without adequate training, insurance, or a complaints policy, leaving vulnerable clients without recourse in cases of malpractice.
Helen stressed the importance of rigorous initial training spanning four to six years, supplemented by 30 hours of annual Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
She also advocates for professional membership subscriptions, monthly clinical supervision, insurance, enhanced DBS checks, and GDPR compliance to ensure ethical and effective care.
Helen, a member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and the British Association of Counselling Psychotherapy (BACP), is urging the government to address these issues and introduce regulations.
