If you have started looking for support, you have probably noticed that some practitioners call themselves counsellors, others psychotherapists, and some use both titles. It is one of the most common questions we are asked at Hackney Therapy House: what is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy, and which one do I need?
The short answer is that the two overlap a great deal. Both are confidential talking therapies with a trained professional, and both aim to help you understand yourself and feel better. The differences are mostly about focus, depth and length.
What is counselling?
Counselling usually focuses on a specific difficulty that is affecting your life now, such as a bereavement, a relationship breakdown, stress at work or a period of low mood. Sessions help you talk through what is happening, make sense of your feelings and find practical ways forward.
Counselling is often shorter term, anything from six to twelve sessions, although many people choose to continue for longer.
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy tends to explore more deeply how your personality, early experiences and relationships may be shaping the way you think, feel and behave today. It can be helpful for long-standing patterns, for example repeatedly finding yourself in similar relationships, persistent anxiety, or feelings that are hard to put into words.
Psychotherapy is often longer term, sometimes months or years, and usually takes place weekly.
Training and registration
In the UK, the titles counsellor and psychotherapist are not protected by law, so it is worth checking that your practitioner is registered with a recognised professional body such as the BACP, UKCP or BPS. Psychotherapists generally complete a longer training, often at Masters level, while counsellors typically train to diploma level. All practitioners at Hackney Therapy House are qualified, insured and registered with a professional body.
Which one is right for me?
- Counselling may suit you if you want support with a recent or specific issue and would like a more focused, shorter piece of work.
- Psychotherapy may suit you if you notice recurring patterns, have experienced difficulties for a long time, or want to understand yourself more deeply.
In practice, many of our therapists are trained in both and will adapt their approach to you. The relationship you build with your therapist matters more than the title, so it is worth choosing someone you feel comfortable with.
How to get started
You can browse our therapists to read about their training, approach and the areas they work with, or learn more about individual counselling and psychotherapy. Many of our practitioners offer a free 15-minute introductory call, so you can ask questions before booking your first session. You will also find answers to common questions on our FAQs page.
Hackney Therapy House is on Kingsland High Street in Dalston, East London, a few minutes from Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction stations. Many of our therapists also work online.
