Following Laura Clark‘s recent workshop on Jargon Busting the different types of therapy, we thought it would be useful to write a blog post on the topic for World Mental Health Day 2024. Deciding to start therapy is a significant step in taking care of your mental health. However, with so many different types of therapists available, it can be confusing to know which one is the best fit for your needs. At Illuminated Thinking, we aim to make that choice clearer by breaking down the differences between the most common types of therapists you’ll encounter in the UK. Understanding these roles will not only help you feel more confident in your decision but also ensure you get the most appropriate support for your specific situation.

Counsellor

A counsellor is often the first point of contact for individuals seeking emotional support. They provide a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. Counsellors work with you to reflect on your challenges, helping you find solutions that come from within rather than prescribing advice. They are skilled in creating a space where you feel heard, allowing you to discuss life transitions, relationship issues, stress, or general mental health concerns.

Training: In the UK, counsellors typically hold a diploma or degree in counselling, supported by supervised practice to ensure professional standards are met.

Best for: If you are looking for emotional support during difficult times, coping with stress, or navigating life changes, a counsellor might be the right choice.

Key difference: Counsellors do not prescribe medication or diagnose mental health conditions. Their role is primarily supportive, helping you work through challenges in a conversational, non-directive manner.

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists differ from most other therapists in that they are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. They are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and can prescribe medication, making them particularly helpful for individuals with severe or complex conditions.

Training: Psychiatrists complete a medical degree followed by several years of specialist training in psychiatry. This rigorous training enables them to manage the medical aspects of mental health care.

Best for: Those dealing with more serious conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or major depression that may require medication as part of the treatment plan.

Key difference: Psychiatrists are the only mental health professionals in the UK who can prescribe medication. They often work with individuals whose mental health challenges may be more severe or long-term.

Psychologist

Psychologists are highly trained in understanding mental health from a scientific perspective. They often specialise in areas such as clinical, counselling or forensic psychology, allowing them to provide structured therapeutic approaches tailored to their clients’ needs. Psychologists use evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR or Schema Therapy to address specific conditions (such as anxiety, depression, or trauma), support individuals navigating life difficulties (e.g. trauma) or break unhelpful patterns (e.g. substance or relationship difficulties). While they cannot prescribe medication, their expertise lies in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders or long running difficulties through a range of psychological techniques.

Training: Psychologists typically hold a degree in psychology, followed by extensive postgraduate training, such as a masters or doctorate degree, in their chosen specialism. This allows them to conduct detailed assessments and deliver structured, targeted therapies.

Best for: If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health issues that require structured, evidence-based therapy, a psychologist could be the right choice.

Key difference: While they don’t prescribe medication, psychologists offer a deeper level of assessment and treatment through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. They are particularly effective for those looking for a more structured, clinical approach to mental health care.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

CBT therapists specialise in a specific form of therapy known as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. CBT is widely recognised as an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, and phobias, among other issues. This therapy focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour. A CBT therapist will work with you to develop practical skills and techniques that help you manage your thoughts and emotions more effectively, often providing tasks or exercises to complete between sessions.

Training: CBT therapists usually have a background in psychology or a related field, followed by specialised training in CBT. They often work within a shorter timeframe, focusing on current problems rather than past experiences.

Best for: Anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, and phobias.

Key difference: CBT therapists offer short-term, focused interventions that aim to bring about change in specific behaviours or thought patterns. This approach is structured, goal-oriented, and practical, often involving homework and exercises between sessions.

Therapist vs. Counsellor vs. Psychologist

One of the most common areas of confusion for those new to therapy is the difference between a therapist, counsellor, and psychologist. In the UK, the term “therapist” is often used as an umbrella term to refer to anyone providing mental health support, including counsellors, psychologists, and CBT therapists. However, it’s important to understand the distinctions:

Counsellor: Offers emotional support and guidance, finding the solutions within, often focusing on present-day issues like stress or relationship problems.

Psychologist: Provides structured, evidence-based treatments and can assess and diagnose mental health conditions, but they do not prescribe medication.

CBT Therapist: Specialises in short-term, structured therapy aimed at changing unhelpful behaviours and thought patterns.

Considerations When Choosing a Therapist

When it comes to choosing the right therapist, there are several key factors to consider.

The nature of your problem: If you’re dealing with severe mental health conditions that may require medication, a psychiatrist is likely your best option. For issues like anxiety or depression, a psychologist or CBT therapist may be more suitable.

Duration of therapy: CBT is often short-term and focused, making it ideal for those looking to work on specific problems. If you’re seeking longer-term support for more complex emotional difficulties, a psychologist or counsellor may be a better fit.

Budget: Fees vary depending on the type of therapist you choose. Counsellors generally charge lower rates than psychologists or psychiatrists, but it’s important to balance cost with the type of support you need.

Medication: Only psychiatrists can prescribe medication, so if you believe you may need pharmaceutical intervention, they will be the professional to consult.

Comfort and rapport: Above all, the relationship between you and your therapist is crucial. It’s important to feel comfortable with the person you’re working with. Don’t be afraid to consult a few different therapists before finding the one who feels like the best fit.

Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision, and the right one for you will depend on your individual circumstances, goals, and the nature of the issues you want to address. Whichever route you take, remember that seeking help is an important and positive step towards improving your mental well-being.