If you’ve ever searched for a therapist online, you’ve probably noticed that some people call themselves counsellors, others call themselves psychotherapists, and some use both titles at the same time. It can feel confusing — especially when you’re already going through a difficult time and just want to find the right support.
So what’s the difference? And does it actually matter?
The short answer
In the UK, neither the title “counsellor” nor “psychotherapist” is legally protected. This means that technically, anyone can use either title — which is why it’s so important to check a therapist’s qualifications and professional membership before booking.
In practice however, there are some general differences between the two.
What is a counsellor?
Counselling tends to focus on specific, present-day issues. If you’re going through a difficult period — a bereavement, a relationship breakdown, work stress, or a life transition — a counsellor can offer a supportive, confidential space to talk things through, gain clarity, and develop coping strategies.
Counselling is often shorter term, typically ranging from six sessions to around six months, though this varies depending on your needs.
What is a psychotherapist?
Psychotherapy tends to go deeper. It often explores how past experiences — including childhood, relationships, and long-held patterns of thinking and behaviour — are affecting your life today. Psychotherapy is generally longer term and may be particularly helpful for complex or longstanding difficulties such as trauma, personality disorders, or deeply rooted anxiety and depression.
So which one do I need?
Honestly — for most people, the distinction matters less than you might think. What matters most is finding a therapist who is qualified, accredited, and someone you feel comfortable with.
Many therapists — myself included — are trained in both counselling and psychotherapy, and use an integrative approach that draws on a wide range of therapeutic methods. This means the depth and focus of our work together can be tailored entirely to what you need, whether that’s practical support for a current difficulty or deeper exploration of longer-term patterns.
What should I look for when choosing a therapist?
When searching for a therapist, here are the most important things to check:
- Accreditation — look for membership of a recognised professional body such as the BACP, UKCP, or NCS. Accredited members are bound by a code of ethics and required to undertake regular supervision and continuing professional development.
- Qualifications — a reputable therapist will be transparent about their training and qualifications.
- Experience — look for a therapist with experience in the specific areas you want to work on.
- The relationship — research consistently shows that the quality of the relationship between therapist and client is one of the most important factors in successful therapy. Most therapists offer a free initial consultation — use it to see how you feel.
What about CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and other approaches?
You may also have come across terms like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, person-centred counselling, or Gestalt therapy. These refer to specific therapeutic approaches or modalities rather than job titles.
- CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and is particularly effective for anxiety and depression.
- Psychodynamic therapy explores how unconscious patterns and past experiences influence present behaviour.
- Person-centred counselling emphasises empathy, unconditional positive regard, and the belief that each person has the capacity for growth.
- Gestalt therapy focuses on present-moment awareness and personal responsibility.
An integrative therapist draws on several of these approaches, adapting their methods to suit each individual client.
About my practice
I’m Klara Vantrubova, an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist based in West Hampstead, London (NW6). I hold a BSc (First Class Honours) in Psychology and Counselling, a Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling, and a Chrysalis Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice. I am an Accredited Member of the National Counselling Society (MNCS Accred).
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, relationship issues, burnout, ADHD and more. I offer in-person sessions in West Hampstead, Walk & Talk therapy in the Brondesbury and NW6 area, and online sessions worldwide.
If you’re not sure whether counselling or psychotherapy is right for you — or simply want to find out more — please get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation. There’s no pressure and no commitment.
👉 Book your free consultation here
Klara Vantrubova is an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist based in West Hampstead, London, offering in-person, Walk & Talk and online sessions. She specialises in anxiety, trauma, relationship issues and more.
Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy 