When seeking support, it’s important to choose a clinician who is not only compassionate and knowledgeable but also regulated and/or accredited by a professional body. What does Regulated mean? A regulated clinician is a professional who operates within a regulated profession, meaning they have undertaken the relevant training to meet the standards of that profession. The …
When seeking support, it’s important to choose a clinician who is not only compassionate and knowledgeable but also regulated and/or accredited by a professional body.
What does Regulated mean?
A regulated clinician is a professional who operates within a regulated profession, meaning they have undertaken the relevant training to meet the standards of that profession. The title of ‘Clinical Psychologist’ is protected, meaning that individuals who hold this title have undergone thorough training and adhere to strict standards set forth by their regulatory body the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), who regulate nine distinct types of psychologists.
Becoming an HCPC-registered psychologist typically involves at least eight or nine years of training, including doctoral-level education and supervised clinical practice. This regulation ensures that the services provided are evidence-based and of the highest quality, backed by years of education, supervision, and ongoing professional development.
The title ‘psychologist’ on its own is not a protected title, and unfortunately there are an increasing number of people using this title who have not undergone the same rigorous training that HCPC regulated psychologists have completed.
What does Accredited mean?
It is not only Clinical Psychologists who provide therapy, but it is equally important that those that do have undertaken sufficient training and are accredited with a particular body e.g. the BABCP. To become accredited with these organisations, clinicians will have completed comprehensive training and demonstrated that they have safely, and competently, met the standards of that training. When looking for a therapist, organisations to look out for include the BABCP (British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies), COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) and UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy).
What about experience?
It is also important to consider the types of experience people had had and where they have gained this post qualification. This will give an indicator of the depth of their experience, and the level of complexity they have worked with. Working for organisations such as the NHS also offers extensive experience in risk assessment and networking with other multidisciplinary professionals.
Why is this important?
Not everyone working in health and social care is regulated by law, which is why it is important to choose regulated, accredited practitioners. Titles like ‘psychotherapist’, ‘therapist’, ‘counsellor’, or ‘life coach’ are not legally protected or regulated. This means that anyone can use these titles, regardless of their level of training or experience. Without regulation or accreditation, there is no guarantee that the individual providing services has the necessary skills, expertise, or qualifications to address your specific needs effectively.
When you choose a regulated, accredited clinician, you can trust that you are receiving an assessment and treatment from someone who has met specific criteria for education, training, and ethical practice – providing you with peace of mind, knowing that your care is in the hands of a qualified professional who is held accountable to established standards of practice.
By choosing a regulated, accredited clinician, you are prioritising your safety and wellbeing. You can have confidence in their expertise and professionalism, knowing that they are held to the highest standards of practice within their specialised field, and you will be receiving the highest quality of care.
At the Walden Clinic, you can be safe in the knowledge that the clinician you see is appropriately trained to undertake work with you or your loved one:
- Dr Aileen Ward, as a Clinical Psychologist regulated by the HCPC, ensures that every individual who seeks support receives evidence-based treatment that is tailored to their unique needs. As a member of the Association of Clinical Psychologists, she remains committed to upholding the highest standards of care and providing compassionate support to those in need.
- Jan Holland as a Nurse Therapist, is regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). She has undertaken post-qualification training in CBT, CFT, neurodevelopmental assessments, and is accredited with the BABCP. Jan is committed to providing a safe and caring environment, enabling greater self-compassion to overcome difficulties.
When it comes to your mental health, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Choose a regulated, accredited clinician who has the qualifications, experience, and commitment to help you.
