Symantha's Talking Therapy

Sorry, no client testimonials here.

I understand how compelling it is to check out the reviews before buying anything.

I know client testimonials are found an many therapy websites.

But personally, I choose not to.

And these are my reasons why.

I abide by the ethical codes of the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) as I am on their pathway to accreditation and they consider the use of testimonials unethical. So, from the starting block the option has been removed from consideration.

But even if that were not the case, I would only ever consider posting anonymous testimonials, and what would the point of that be?

One of the key tenets of therapy is the assurance of confidentiality. It is vitally important to the therapeutic process that what is shared, is shared safely with the assurance that no part of our work is disclosed by me to anyone, in any form, whether with your permission or not. So, any client review that bore a client name or any information that could remotely identify my client would be a serious threat to my rigorous standing in respect to the sacrosanct promise of confidentiality. It simply is a no no for me.  (Please click on the link for limits of confidentiality to see the rare exceptions). I know some therapists minimise risk to confidentiality by providing anonymous testimonials but really? What is the point of that? There is no room for authentication and I am not suggesting for one moment that any therapist would fabricate good reviews but the potential is there. In addition, no one is going to post a bad testimonial on their website. So, website testimonials are biased. I understand that they are appealing, I really do, but they are just not very useful.

My clients are hugely grateful when they make headway on issues that have been troubling them for years, and yes they write and express as much to me. I am always hugely gratified when my clients blossom and move on, but like the therapy itself, shared appreciation is held safely and quietly within the boundary of therapy. 

Besides, Reviews are most useful for products not people.

I read reviews when I’m considering buying something like a mobile phone. Published feedback can sway me to buy one make or model over another. But surely, this is not appropriate for therapy. Personal therapy is just that, it is personal and no two therapy sessions, let alone two clients, are the same.  Even if I had pages of reviews here  from good to bad and everything in-between, no feedback will be applicable to you and your situation. I sincerely mean it when I say you are unique, and the work we do will be unique too. No one can write a review that will help you, except you. So there are no two ways about it, you have to dive into therapy after making the best choice you can. Do some research, then decide upon the therapy and therapist that feels “right” for you. Chances are, your instincts will be right. 

Contact me, you will be glad you did.

It can feel daunting to reach out, but I promise you that I am very friendly and I will do my utmost for you to feel as comfortable as possible about approaching me. This work is my joy and my passion, I give my all to my clients and that starts from first contact.  If you are seeking help, I’m here and I’m happy to start by answering some of your questions with no obligation. I would love to hear from you.  

* There are independent review sites like Google for example, where people can leave reviews of places, services and goods. I have no jurisdiction over these sites nor control over what people post.