Understanding therapists’ academic qualifications

Starting with a foundation

Completing a relevant degree

Undertaking accredited postgraduate training

Building extensive experience

Understanding professional memberships

Because “therapist” isn’t a regulated title in the UK, joining a recognised professional body is one way therapists show their commitment to high standards. Professional memberships mean they meet specific training requirements, follow ethical guidelines, and are held accountable for their work.

How a therapist’s professional membership helps ensure quality care for you

Not every qualified therapist in the UK has a professional membership, and that doesn’t mean they’re not a great therapist. Most are happy to share their training and experience if you ask.

BACP – British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

One of the largest professional organisations for counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK. If you see a BACP registered or accredited therapist on emote Care, it shows they've completed recognised training, follow a strict ethical framework, and commit to ongoing professional development.

UKCP – UK Council for Psychotherapy

A leading professional body for psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors. UKCP-registered therapists have completed advanced psychotherapy training and meet high standards of supervision, ethics, and continuous learning.

BABCP – British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies

The specialist organisation for therapists trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). BABCP accreditation shows the therapist has specialist training in CBT and has been assessed as competent to deliver evidence-based support for issues such as anxiety, depression, and related conditions.

NCPS – National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society

A professional membership body for counsellors and psychotherapists across the UK. Therapists on the NCPS Register have met defined training and practice standards, follow an ethical code, and complete regular professional development.

COSCA – Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland

Scotland's professional body for counselling and psychotherapy. COSCA registration shows the therapist has completed approved training in Scotland, abides by an ethical framework, and meets recognised professional standards.

Other professional bodies you may see

The Association of Child Psychotherapists (ACP), The Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy (ADMP), The Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC), The British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT), The British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC), Play Therapy UK, The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and The EMDR Association UK.

How we verify a therapists’ credentials

1. Application review

We collect and thoroughly review personal details, professional credentials and supporting evidence from every therapist who applies to join our platform.

2. Quick verification

We verify each therapist's identity and qualifications through Veriff, our trusted third-party verification service, ensuring complete authenticity.

3. Platform approval

Only after passing all verification steps are therapists approved to offer sessions on emote Care.

The most qualified therapist on paper isn't necessarily the right fit for you personally