Is it better to choose my own therapist or use a digital platform?

When you find your own counsellor or psychotherapist, you have the power to choose someone who is the right fit for you. 

That means you can consider things like:

• Their experience and qualifications
• Their therapy style and personality
• Whether they specialise in what you’re going through
• Their gender, background, specialities or other preferences that matter to you

With a digital platform such as Better Help, you could be matched by an algorithm. While you can ask to switch, it can take a few tries to find the right person – and that can be frustrating when you’re already feeling low or anxious.

Qualification Control

In the UK, I would always recommend checking out a therapist’s qualifications and whether they belong to a professional body such as the BACP https://www.bacp.co.uk/  (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) or UKCP https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/  (UK Council for Psychotherapy). That means they’ve had thorough training, follow ethical guidelines, and are committed to ongoing development in line with their body’s expectations.

Unlike professions like Physiotherapists or Paramedics, ‘Counsellor’ and ‘Psychotherapist’ are not protected titles.  This means that technically, anyone could use these role tiles, so these steps are hugely important to ensure that you’re working with someone appropriately qualified.

With digital platforms like Better Help, many are international meaning that standards may vary.  Some therapists may be based outside the UK and trained under different standards and regulations. That doesn’t mean they’re bad therapists, but it might not match your expectations.

Privacy and Confidentiality 

UK-based private therapists must follow strict rules under UK data protection laws including GDPR. This means your sessions, any notes and personal information are handled with care and legal protection.

Some digital platforms may store your data outside of the UK, which could be a concern for people who value their privacy or want extra reassurance.

Flexibility

While Better Help is entirely online and messaging-based, this style doesn’t suit everyone. Sometimes, having that in-person human connection makes all the difference.

Many therapists including myself, offer multiple options to work with clients depending on their needs.  These include face-to-face, video calls, telephone sessions or even walk-and-talk therapy.  You can choose what feels best and most natural to you!

Connection and Understanding Life in the UK

A UK-based therapist knows the culture, systems, and experiences you’re living wit.  Whether it’s understanding the NHS, the education system, work stress, the current political/economic climate or just the general vibes of life in the UK.

A therapist overseas might not be able to relate to those things, and that can lead to misunderstandings or advice that doesn’t fit with what you’re experiencing.

A Relationship that Lasts

In my experience and through feedback from clients, when they have chosen their therapist rather than being allocated through an algorithm or service, they feel that they’re building trust with someone who is in it for them, and who isn’t beholden by the terms or working model of a platform.

You can go at your own pace, check in when you need to, and develop a proper, lasting relationship that supports you through your own journey, however this looks.

Summary

Better Help and similar platforms can be a helpful starting point, especially for people who are new to therapy or need quick access. But if you’re looking for something more personalised, consistent, and grounded in UK standards, finding your own private therapist is often the better choice.

You deserve mental health support that is right for you. Take your time, do your research, and trust your gut.  It’s your journey, and you’re allowed to choose what works best for you.

You may wish to check out my blog “How to Choose the Right Counsellor/Psychotherapist”