Counselling in Newtownabbey

Photo of Kiri McLaughlin, Counsellor, MBACP
Kiri McLaughlin
Counsellor, MBACP
My experience in psycho-education and counselling has focused on supporting individuals living with stress, mental illness & suicidal thoughts. I've supported people who aren't sure what to do next with situations & relationships, or are struggling with feelings of overwhelm or depression. Most people who I've worked with just don't want to be in pain anymore, but everyone's needs & wants are different & it's important to get to know you & meet you where you are on your journey.
My experience in psycho-education and counselling has focused on supporting individuals living with stress, mental illness & suicidal thoughts. I've supported people who aren't sure what to do next with situations & relationships, or are struggling with feelings of overwhelm or depression. Most people who I've worked with just don't want to be in pain anymore, but everyone's needs & wants are different & it's important to get to know you & meet you where you are on your journey.
07872 177631 View 07872 177631
Photo of Jennifer Lyness, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Jennifer Lyness
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my profile today. I am a psychologist, psychotherapist and pluralistic counsellor, I have been working and studying in the mental health field for 20 years and have a wealth of experience supporting clients with a variety of mental illnesses and struggling with a range of issues. I am passionate about the ability of the brain to heal and helping clients to understand how this is possible, enabling recovery, the strengthening of resilience and the ability to cope with life and the accompanying stressors in a much more effective way. This will greatly benefit yourself and others around you.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my profile today. I am a psychologist, psychotherapist and pluralistic counsellor, I have been working and studying in the mental health field for 20 years and have a wealth of experience supporting clients with a variety of mental illnesses and struggling with a range of issues. I am passionate about the ability of the brain to heal and helping clients to understand how this is possible, enabling recovery, the strengthening of resilience and the ability to cope with life and the accompanying stressors in a much more effective way. This will greatly benefit yourself and others around you.
028 9694 3408 View 028 9694 3408
Photo of Claire Thompson - Creative Therapies-Claire Thompson, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Creative Therapies-Claire Thompson
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hi, my name is Claire, an Art Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I have worked in suicide prevention and self-harm as well as in primary and post-primary schools alongside my private practice. I am currently completing an interdisciplinary PhD study exploring intergenerational conflict-related trauma in Northern Ireland. I am keenly interested in community art therapy, participation and its part in building local resilience.
Hi, my name is Claire, an Art Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I have worked in suicide prevention and self-harm as well as in primary and post-primary schools alongside my private practice. I am currently completing an interdisciplinary PhD study exploring intergenerational conflict-related trauma in Northern Ireland. I am keenly interested in community art therapy, participation and its part in building local resilience.
028 9692 8222 View 028 9692 8222
Photo of Julie Halliday - The Breakthrough Project, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Julie Halliday and I am a qualified integrative counsellor at The Breakthrough Project. I provide a confidential counselling service based on the belief that you are the expert on your own life and that with help, you will find the solutions to your problems. I will support you on your journey by offering acceptance, non-judgement and a fresh perspective. I provide a safe and secure therapeutic space for self-discovery, reflection and problem-solving to allow you to move forward towards improved wellbeing.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Julie Halliday and I am a qualified integrative counsellor at The Breakthrough Project. I provide a confidential counselling service based on the belief that you are the expert on your own life and that with help, you will find the solutions to your problems. I will support you on your journey by offering acceptance, non-judgement and a fresh perspective. I provide a safe and secure therapeutic space for self-discovery, reflection and problem-solving to allow you to move forward towards improved wellbeing.
028 9433 8764 View 028 9433 8764
Photo of Belinda Bennetts, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Belinda Bennetts
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Are you a woman navigating a major life change such as a breakup, career shift, health diagnosis or relocation? Perhaps you’re an empath or highly sensitive, and it all feels overwhelming. Anxiety, sleeplessness and uncertainty are common during change and you may be seeking support to feel calmer so you can sleep better and feel in control. If you're standing at a crossroads with the weight of change heavy in your heart, I offer a space to help you find direction and peace. Together, we’ll reflect on your journey and help you move forward with confidence and purpose. I offer sessions in Belfast and online across the UK.
Are you a woman navigating a major life change such as a breakup, career shift, health diagnosis or relocation? Perhaps you’re an empath or highly sensitive, and it all feels overwhelming. Anxiety, sleeplessness and uncertainty are common during change and you may be seeking support to feel calmer so you can sleep better and feel in control. If you're standing at a crossroads with the weight of change heavy in your heart, I offer a space to help you find direction and peace. Together, we’ll reflect on your journey and help you move forward with confidence and purpose. I offer sessions in Belfast and online across the UK.
028 9124 2211 View 028 9124 2211
Photo of Maria Kathleen Morgan - Appreciating You Counselling and Supervision, Counsellor, MBACP
I’m glad you’re here, as it means you’re taking a significant step toward understanding yourself and improving your well-being. Life can be overwhelming, and many of us struggle with relationships, feelings of isolation, and the relentless cycle of overthinking. I understand these challenges deeply as i have navigated similar emotions myself.
I’m glad you’re here, as it means you’re taking a significant step toward understanding yourself and improving your well-being. Life can be overwhelming, and many of us struggle with relationships, feelings of isolation, and the relentless cycle of overthinking. I understand these challenges deeply as i have navigated similar emotions myself.
028 2744 0447 View 028 2744 0447
Photo of Sinead Corey - Sinead Corey Play Therapy, Counsellor, MA, PTUK Accred
Sinead Corey Play Therapy
Counsellor, MA, PTUK Accred
Waitlist for new clients
Hello my name is Sinead and I am an Accredited Play Therapist and Registered SandStory Therapist. I have twenty-six years’ experience in a mainstream primary school where I have specialised as a Nurture Room Teacher. I am experienced in supporting children with Attachment Type Difficulties, Selective Mutism, and children diagnosed with with ASD and ADHD. I have supported children experiencing isolation and bullying and have empowered children to build resilience and develop social skills with their peers. I have extensive knowledge of working with individuals and with small groups of children/young people and their parents.
Hello my name is Sinead and I am an Accredited Play Therapist and Registered SandStory Therapist. I have twenty-six years’ experience in a mainstream primary school where I have specialised as a Nurture Room Teacher. I am experienced in supporting children with Attachment Type Difficulties, Selective Mutism, and children diagnosed with with ASD and ADHD. I have supported children experiencing isolation and bullying and have empowered children to build resilience and develop social skills with their peers. I have extensive knowledge of working with individuals and with small groups of children/young people and their parents.
028 9694 3693 View 028 9694 3693
Photo of Cheryl Clokey, Counsellor, MBACP
Cheryl Clokey
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Garden Room Counselling. Life can be tough and sometimes we could do with a little support to understand, help make clear and in turn work towards healing with our trauma, issues and troubling thoughts or behaviours. These may be affecting your mood or wellbeing. My aim is for you to feel safe, valued and seen and to be heard in a non judgemental way. You are unique and we will journey together to build resilience and growth aiming for long term emotional wellbeing.
Garden Room Counselling. Life can be tough and sometimes we could do with a little support to understand, help make clear and in turn work towards healing with our trauma, issues and troubling thoughts or behaviours. These may be affecting your mood or wellbeing. My aim is for you to feel safe, valued and seen and to be heard in a non judgemental way. You are unique and we will journey together to build resilience and growth aiming for long term emotional wellbeing.
028 9124 4575 View 028 9124 4575
Photo of Ben Johnston, Counsellor, MBACP
Ben Johnston
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, my name is Ben - thank you for viewing my profile. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I am trained in different approaches and can use these different ways of working (mainly Humanistic, Psychodynamic and CBT) in our work together to best meet your needs. We are all unique individuals and as such my approach will be tailored to your specific needs. Counselling can be useful for a wide range of issues; it can allow you time and space to focus on yourself. I aim to provide a confidential safe space to allow you the time you need to explore the issues you have faced or are currently facing.
Hi, my name is Ben - thank you for viewing my profile. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I am trained in different approaches and can use these different ways of working (mainly Humanistic, Psychodynamic and CBT) in our work together to best meet your needs. We are all unique individuals and as such my approach will be tailored to your specific needs. Counselling can be useful for a wide range of issues; it can allow you time and space to focus on yourself. I aim to provide a confidential safe space to allow you the time you need to explore the issues you have faced or are currently facing.
028 9694 3713 View 028 9694 3713
Photo of Bethany Sharpe - Bethany Sharpe - Sharpe Mind Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Bethany Sharpe - Sharpe Mind Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Bethany and welcome to Sharpe Mind Therapy. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to providing a non-judgemental space where clients can explore themselves and address any challenges they may be facing, at a pace they are comfortable with. With extensive experience working with a wide range of emotional and mental health challenges, I support clients struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, trauma, addiction and relationship issues.
Hi, my name is Bethany and welcome to Sharpe Mind Therapy. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to providing a non-judgemental space where clients can explore themselves and address any challenges they may be facing, at a pace they are comfortable with. With extensive experience working with a wide range of emotional and mental health challenges, I support clients struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, trauma, addiction and relationship issues.
028 9124 4630 View 028 9124 4630
Photo of Michelle Duffy - Creative Healing , Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Creative Healing
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
My name is Michelle. I have over 10 years of experience working with young people & families impacted by sexual trauma. I have worked in schools and the community as a counsellor supporting children and adults with a wide range of issues. I have an MSc in Children & Adolescent Psychotherapy, Dip: integrative Therapy, BSc in SW, Certificate in sandplay, & EMDR. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel safe enough to explore their thoughts and feelings through a trusted therapeutic relationship. I utilise different creative approaches alongside play and talk therapy & EMDR.
My name is Michelle. I have over 10 years of experience working with young people & families impacted by sexual trauma. I have worked in schools and the community as a counsellor supporting children and adults with a wide range of issues. I have an MSc in Children & Adolescent Psychotherapy, Dip: integrative Therapy, BSc in SW, Certificate in sandplay, & EMDR. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel safe enough to explore their thoughts and feelings through a trusted therapeutic relationship. I utilise different creative approaches alongside play and talk therapy & EMDR.
028 9694 3420 View 028 9694 3420
Photo of Grainne Griffith, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Grainne Griffith
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
Thank you for stopping by my page. With 16 years of experience as an integrative counsellor, I specialise in substance use issues and emotional wellbeing within the community and voluntary and justice sector. My tailored approach combines therapeutic techniques to empower clients, fostering resilience and growth. Dedicated to continuous learning, I strive to provide compassionate and effective support to those i work with.
Thank you for stopping by my page. With 16 years of experience as an integrative counsellor, I specialise in substance use issues and emotional wellbeing within the community and voluntary and justice sector. My tailored approach combines therapeutic techniques to empower clients, fostering resilience and growth. Dedicated to continuous learning, I strive to provide compassionate and effective support to those i work with.
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Photo of Nicola Murray, Counsellor, MBACP
Nicola Murray
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi and Welcome to my profile. Sometimes its hard to see the woods for the trees and it can feel like a loosing battle. Here at Through the Woods TherapyNI I offer a confidential, warm and judgement-free space to explore what is troubling you. People come to counselling for many different reasons. By using an integrative approach, I offer a therapy that is tailored specifically to your needs. Counselling allows you to process how you are feeling, and learn to move forward with a more balanced approach to life's challenges.
Hi and Welcome to my profile. Sometimes its hard to see the woods for the trees and it can feel like a loosing battle. Here at Through the Woods TherapyNI I offer a confidential, warm and judgement-free space to explore what is troubling you. People come to counselling for many different reasons. By using an integrative approach, I offer a therapy that is tailored specifically to your needs. Counselling allows you to process how you are feeling, and learn to move forward with a more balanced approach to life's challenges.
028 9124 4648 View 028 9124 4648
Photo of Laura Stewart, Counsellor, MBACP
Laura Stewart
Counsellor, MBACP
Hello there, my name is Laura of Through the Woods Therapy NI. Sometimes we can't see the wood for the trees and we may need someone to talk to, to gain a new perspective. Here at Through the Woods Therapy, I offer a confidential, non judgemental and a genuine service, whilst you find your way through these difficult times. I am a fully qualified integrative counsellor who provides a safe therapeutic space for reflection and self discovery and when you are ready I can offer solution focused techniques to move forward. Each person has their own perspective and I offer bespoke therapy unique to each individual and their needs.
Hello there, my name is Laura of Through the Woods Therapy NI. Sometimes we can't see the wood for the trees and we may need someone to talk to, to gain a new perspective. Here at Through the Woods Therapy, I offer a confidential, non judgemental and a genuine service, whilst you find your way through these difficult times. I am a fully qualified integrative counsellor who provides a safe therapeutic space for reflection and self discovery and when you are ready I can offer solution focused techniques to move forward. Each person has their own perspective and I offer bespoke therapy unique to each individual and their needs.
028 9694 3561 View 028 9694 3561
Photo of Nichola Burke, Counsellor, MBACP
Nichola Burke
Counsellor, MBACP
I am what is called an ‘integrative counsellor’. What this means is that I have trained in several therapeutic approaches so I can meet each individual clients needs. I understand how hard it can be to make that first step in asking for help. I will endeavour to create a safe and welcoming environment. I firmly believe you have the answers within yourself, its just sometimes we don’t get the time or space to figure them out, and sometimes we need someone who is on the outside looking in with a bit of perspective, knowledge or experience to just helping you join up the dots and find your own solutions or conclusions.
I am what is called an ‘integrative counsellor’. What this means is that I have trained in several therapeutic approaches so I can meet each individual clients needs. I understand how hard it can be to make that first step in asking for help. I will endeavour to create a safe and welcoming environment. I firmly believe you have the answers within yourself, its just sometimes we don’t get the time or space to figure them out, and sometimes we need someone who is on the outside looking in with a bit of perspective, knowledge or experience to just helping you join up the dots and find your own solutions or conclusions.
028 9433 8815 View 028 9433 8815
Photo of Ellen Bowler-McCartney - Art Therapy with Ellen, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Art Therapy with Ellen
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Online Only
Are you feeling anxious, frustrated, or stuck in a life that feels smaller than you'd like? Maybe you're tired of keeping it all together when illness has changed so much. Perhaps you are struggling to get your head around a recent diagnosis? I understand—because I’ve been there too. Living with a chronic health condition can feel like bouncing between good days and bad and longing for balance. It can be hard to live with a forever illness and not just for you. When life serves up a chronic illness to deal with it is no wonder we can feel, anxious, low or fed up. BUT you don't have to struggle through alone.
Are you feeling anxious, frustrated, or stuck in a life that feels smaller than you'd like? Maybe you're tired of keeping it all together when illness has changed so much. Perhaps you are struggling to get your head around a recent diagnosis? I understand—because I’ve been there too. Living with a chronic health condition can feel like bouncing between good days and bad and longing for balance. It can be hard to live with a forever illness and not just for you. When life serves up a chronic illness to deal with it is no wonder we can feel, anxious, low or fed up. BUT you don't have to struggle through alone.
028 9694 3765 View 028 9694 3765
Photo of Anne O’Kelly, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Anne O’Kelly
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Are you worried for you and your family as a result of a breakdown in relationships. Are you fearful for the mental and emotional well being of all the family members especially children. Would you want to explore thoughts, feelings and behaviours in order to reach an understanding of how to cope with family change and transition? I am an experienced and skilled therapist. I provide a safe healing space for you to address your concerns and fears with a view to reaching a resolution and plan for the future.
Are you worried for you and your family as a result of a breakdown in relationships. Are you fearful for the mental and emotional well being of all the family members especially children. Would you want to explore thoughts, feelings and behaviours in order to reach an understanding of how to cope with family change and transition? I am an experienced and skilled therapist. I provide a safe healing space for you to address your concerns and fears with a view to reaching a resolution and plan for the future.
028 9163 8460 View 028 9163 8460
Photo of Mary-Jo Robinson - MJR Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Services (CBT), Psychotherapist, MBABCP
MJR Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Services (CBT)
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Acknowledging that something doesn't feel quite right and that we may need help and support can be very challenging for us to accept. In a world where anxiety, stress and depression seem all consuming, it can be hard to see a light at the end of a very dark tunnel. That's where exploring your difficulties with a trained professional can help. Working together as a team, we will work collaboratively to help you reach your goals in therapy and equip you with the tools to become your own therapist. I am available for 1-1 therapy and offer 1-1 or group clinical supervision also.
Acknowledging that something doesn't feel quite right and that we may need help and support can be very challenging for us to accept. In a world where anxiety, stress and depression seem all consuming, it can be hard to see a light at the end of a very dark tunnel. That's where exploring your difficulties with a trained professional can help. Working together as a team, we will work collaboratively to help you reach your goals in therapy and equip you with the tools to become your own therapist. I am available for 1-1 therapy and offer 1-1 or group clinical supervision also.
028 9344 7304 View 028 9344 7304
Photo of Deirdre Martin, Psychotherapist, SNCPS Acc.
Deirdre Martin
Psychotherapist, SNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Deirdre, a professional, experienced, friendly and down-to-earth therapist in Newtownabbey Belfast. I help people to manage difficulties they are experiencing and to bring about change in a warm, compassionate and safe way without judgement. Do you need help with very treatable issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma/PTSD, bereavement or loss, emotional or sexual abuse, childhood or workplace bullying, childhood/family issues or anger? Perhaps you want to stop people pleasing or to understand the causes of your unhappiness? Do you want more time to yourself but never seem to manage to get it?
Hello, I'm Deirdre, a professional, experienced, friendly and down-to-earth therapist in Newtownabbey Belfast. I help people to manage difficulties they are experiencing and to bring about change in a warm, compassionate and safe way without judgement. Do you need help with very treatable issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma/PTSD, bereavement or loss, emotional or sexual abuse, childhood or workplace bullying, childhood/family issues or anger? Perhaps you want to stop people pleasing or to understand the causes of your unhappiness? Do you want more time to yourself but never seem to manage to get it?
028 9433 1972 View 028 9433 1972
Photo of Victoria Lynn Brown, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Victoria Lynn Brown
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Not accepting new clients
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to visit my profile.  My name is Victoria, I am a qualified and registered Psychotherapist. My registration is with British association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists. As a psychotherapist, my primary focus is to provide support and guidance to individuals struggling with various mental health challenges such as depression, stress, family issues and trauma. I offer a safe and non judgemental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions and experiences.
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to visit my profile.  My name is Victoria, I am a qualified and registered Psychotherapist. My registration is with British association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists. As a psychotherapist, my primary focus is to provide support and guidance to individuals struggling with various mental health challenges such as depression, stress, family issues and trauma. I offer a safe and non judgemental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions and experiences.
028 9692 8289 View 028 9692 8289
1

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Newtownabbey

30+

Average cost per session

£50

Counsellors in Newtownabbey who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Self Esteem
77% Stress
71% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
66% Bereavement

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

63% Aviva
50% Vitality
38% AXA PPP

How Counsellors in Newtownabbey see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Newtownabbey?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?

Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.