How to Choose a CBT Therapist: What to Look for and Questions to Ask

cbtbournemouth
Sep 17
2 min read

Two women sit on a sofa in a bright room. One is talking with open hands, the other listens attentively. Blinds are in the background. — Rebecca - CBT Therapist - online remote appointments across the UK & in person in Poole, Bournemouth, Dorset

As much as edcuation and stigma has adjusted in recent years, starting therapy can still feel very overwhleming and it's completly understandable to want to find a therapist who will most likely get you. Researching and choosing the right therapist makes all the difference to your experience of therapy and how likely you are to engage within sessions and see the change most important to you. A good fit means you should feel supported, motivated, and more likely to make lasting change.

What to Look for in a CBT Therapist:

🔹 Accreditation: In the UK, CBT therapist is not a protected legal title meaning there is no guarentee someone advertising themselves as a CBT therapist has had adequate training. If you are looking for a therapist with specific well respected training specific to Cognitive Behavioural Therapist you can find a list of therapists accredited with the UK's largest professional accrediting body here - British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy (BABCP). BABCP accredited CBT Therapists adhere to strict codes of practice and professional standards.

🔹 Experience with Your Concerns: If you’re seeking help for anxiety, low mood, stress, or trauma, make sure your therapist has experience in these areas. You can check for accreditation and look for their specific qualifications listed on their website or listing.

🔹 Approach & Style: CBT should be a collaborative and goal focused therapy which focuses on forming an individuial understanding of your unique difficulties and how these are affecting you. CBT is back by an extensive evidence bas but you will find each therapist brings their own style and experience. Watch this short YouTube video on what CBT is to get a feel for the CBT approach.

🔹 Practical Considerations: Check if the therapist offers online sessions, evening appointments, or accept private medical insurance as well as self funding, whichever suits your needs and availability.

Questions to Ask Before You Book

Are you BABCP accredited?
Have you worked with people experiencing what I’m going through?
How many sessions do people usually need?
Do you offer online therapy?
Can I use my private medical insurance?

These questions will give you confidence before starting.

What Change Can CBT Offer You?

CBT isn’t just about talking, it’s about understanding your difficulties, learning tools identify and respond differently to unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. With the right support, you can:

✨ Reduce anxiety and worry

✨ Lift your mood and energy

✨ Manage stress more effectively

✨ Build confidence and resilience

This is what I help my clients achieve every day.