A letter to MP Stephen Kinnock

Dear Mr. Kinnock,

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding your recent comments on private therapy. As a professional counselor, I find it troubling that such remarks risk undermining the essential role that private therapists play in providing critical mental health support to those in need.

The UK is currently facing a mental health crisis, with NHS services under immense strain and waiting lists for therapy stretching months, if not years. In this context, private therapy serves as a vital lifeline for individuals who cannot afford to wait. Dismissing or downplaying its role only exacerbates the problem by discouraging those who need urgent support from seeking help.

It is important to acknowledge that private counseling in the UK is not formally regulated. However, trained professional counselors adhere to high standards of practice and ethical guidelines by registering with reputable regulatory bodies such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), the National Counselling Society (NCS), and other recognised organisations. Membership in these bodies ensures that practitioners undergo rigorous training, maintain continuous professional development, and uphold ethical standards in their work.

Furthermore, private therapists adhere to the same rigorous ethical and professional standards as those working within the NHS. Many of us provide services at reduced rates, offer pro bono work, and contribute significantly to community well-being. Our work complements, rather than competes with, public services, helping to alleviate the burden on the NHS and ensuring that mental health support remains accessible. It is also important to clarify that as counselors and therapists, we do not diagnose mental health conditions but rather provide therapeutic support tailored to individual needs.

Your comments risk perpetuating misconceptions that could deter individuals from seeking professional support, potentially worsening their conditions. Instead of casting doubt on private therapy, I urge you to advocate for a more integrated mental health strategy—one that recognises and supports the contributions of both public and private sector professionals.

I welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter further, and I would welcome you to visit my therapy practice to see for yourself, the vital work that we do.

Yours sincerely

Bernadette Hall

Roots to Grow Counselling and Psychotherapy