How to choose the right therapist in Cambridge

Searching for a therapist in Cambridge can be a daunting process — especially if you’re already feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re an adult navigating stress, a parent supporting a child, or a teenager struggling with emotional changes, choosing the right therapist is one of the most important steps you can take toward meaningful change.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how therapy works, what to look for in a therapist, and why it’s okay not to have all the answers before you begin.

Why Finding the Right Therapist Matters

The effectiveness of therapy often hinges on the relationship you build with your therapist. Research shows that feeling safe, understood, and emotionally supported leads to better outcomes.

If you're seeking a Cambridge therapist for yourself or someone in your family, know that it's completely normal to have questions — and even doubts — at the start. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is your experience.

What to Consider When Choosing a Therapist

A good therapist will hold space for your experiences without judgement. But how do you choose between so many profiles and therapy types?

Here are a few key areas to consider:

Professional Qualifications

In the UK, therapists should be registered with an organisation such as those highlighted below which i am:

1. BACP – British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

   • BACP Registered Psychotherapist (672564)

2. UKCP – UK Council for Psychotherapy

   • UKCP Registered Attachment-Based Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist

   • UKCP Registered Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist

   • UKCP Registered Supervisor

3. HCPC – Health and Care Professions Council

   • HCPC Registered Arts Therapist (AS00805)

These accreditations ensure they’ve undergone thorough training and uphold strict ethical standards. You can view my listings on:

• https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/counselling/cambridge-therapies-cambridge/1533466

• https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/clair-lewoski​

• https://www.bacp.co.uk/therapists/197740/clair-lewoski/cambridge-cb22

• https://artspsychotherapy.org/therapist/clair-lewoski/

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairlewoski/

• https://thebowlbycentre.org.uk/locator/

Therapy Type and Approach

Not all therapy is the same. Some approaches are short-term and solution-focused (like CBT), while others go deeper into relationships and past patterns (like psychodynamic or attachment-based therapy). Learn more about my approach and how it can support your journey.

I work primarily with attachment-based therapy, which is ideal for:

• Adults struggling with anxiety, loss, or relationship dynamics

• Parents needing support through challenging phases of their child’s development

• Teenagers navigating identity, self-esteem, and emotional regulation

• Children experiencing emotional, behavioural, or social difficulties, often expressed through anxiety, aggression, or withdrawal

  
  

Child Behaviour Support and Teen Therapy

If you're searching for a child behaviour specialist near me, it’s helpful to look for someone who understands both developmental psychology and parent-child attachment.

I regularly support children and adolescents dealing with:

• Anxiety or low mood

• Difficulty in school or friendships

• Family transitions (e.g., separation, loss, or blended households)

  
  

Teenagers, in particular, often benefit from having a safe, neutral space to talk — one that’s separate from school or family systems. My work with teens is guided by respect, curiosity, and a recognition of their growing autonomy. Read more about therapy for children and teens.

What to Expect from the First Session

First sessions usually involve:

• Gently exploring what brings you to therapy

• Talking through goals, needs, and hopes

• Understanding your background or current concerns

• Asking questions about how therapy works

There’s no pressure to disclose everything right away. Therapy unfolds at your pace.

How Parents Can Get Involved

If you’re a parent seeking therapy in Cambridge for your teenager or child, your support is key. I offer consultation sessions for parents to reflect on patterns, gain insights, and feel more confident navigating difficult phases. Learn more about parent consultation therapy.

How to Know If a Therapist Is Right for You

Pay attention to how you feel in the room:

• Do you feel respected and listened to?

• Can you imagine being open with this person over time?

• Do they help you feel safe, even if things are uncomfortable?

It’s okay to meet with more than one therapist before settling. What matters is finding someone who feels like a good fit — for you, your child, or your family.

Practical Considerations

• Location: I'm based in CB22, just south of Cambridge city centre, with easy access by car and public transport

• Format: I offer both in-person and online sessions

• Availability: Weekday daytime and limited after-school appointments available

You can book an initial consultation or contact me with questions before committing to ongoing work.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a therapist is an act of care for yourself or someone you love. Whether you're seeking attachment therapy in Cambridge, support for your teenager, or simply want a safe place to talk things through, help is available — and you're not alone.

If you're looking for a Cambridge therapist, I’d be happy to have an initial chat to see if we're the right fit. There’s no pressure — just a space to explore your needs.