Chartered Counselling Psychologists are a relatively new breed of professional applied
psychologists concerned with the integration of psychological theory and research
with therapeutic practice. The practice of Counselling Psychology requires a high
level of self-awarness and competence in relating the skills and knowledge of personal
and interpersonal dynamics to the therapeutic context.
Chartered Counselling Psychologists work almost anywhere there are people. For instance
counselling psychologists are currently employed in industry, commerce, the prison
service and in all layers of education from primary school to university. About
half of all counselling psychologists are employed to do clinical work in health
and social care settings. Other career paths can be found in teaching and research
for academic bodies. Chartered Counselling Psychologists can also practice privately
or as organisational consultants.
Chartered Counselling Psychologists work therapeutically with clients with a variety
of problems, difficulties, life issues and/or symptoms of psychological disorder.
Their work is informed by psychological theory and research, but the approach taken
in therapy (including the number and frequency of sessions) varies according to
the particular needs of the individual client and the context in which the therapy
takes place. This is normally discussed in some detail and depth during the first
one or two sessions (usually referred to as assessment) during which an agreed plan
of therapy is negotiated.