The counselling process often involves sharing intimate thoughts and feelings with your therapist.

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It may sound strange but this neutral environment will mean that you are able to explore your feelings in confidence, without guilt or fear of judgement.

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If you are seeking support and advice from a counsellor or psychotherapist, it is always reassuring to know that they are working to high standards of practice within the profession. 

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It is therefore important that you check the qualifications and experience of your counsellor or psychotherapist, so that you can feel rest assured that they are who they say who they are, and that they are indeed qualified.  

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You may also find it comforting to know that your counsellor or psychotherapist is a member of a professional body.

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Whilst counsellors and psychotherapists are under no legal obligation to become a member of a professional body, membership will mean a member has met certain requirements set by their professional body and must abide by a code of ethics and complaints procedure.​

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Samantha J Hudson is an Accredited Member of the National Counselling Society.