Due to the long waiting lists, trained counsellors and therapists have developed their own practice. They often have either no waiting list or a very short waiting list, they can often be seen in person or remotely and they are not limited by the number of sessions someone can have. This sounds great doesn't it? However, there are the fees to pay and often this is where the barrier is for most people.

Alexis J. Cunningfolk developed the Green Bottle Method (image shown) to support clients to identify where they feel their affordability sits. This is a great tool to help clients think about what they can afford and how long for, it can also help to encourage a conversation with a counsellor/therapist about their fees and what you can afford.

It is important to understand that many counsellors and therapists are not "in it for the money" because this would not be sustainable (clients come and go and fees for professional standards get higher). Personally speaking, I want to support people and the money that I get for my sessions supports me to continue to do this by allowing me to pay for the ethical and professional standards I adhere to. For example, the money I earn pays for my supervision that I have once a month to ensure I am working safely and ethically with clients. The money also allows me to pay for my room rental so that I can see clients in person, if this is their preference.

This blog post is not to dismiss the upset or outrage about fees counsellors and therapists charge. However, it is an attempt to promote an understanding that most counsellors and therapists do not want to price out any client but the balance between providing support and having an income is a constant ethical dilemma. If you are looking for counselling but are unsure about the fees please speak to your counsellor about what you can afford.