By Claire Tune, Counsellor and Supervisor in Godalming, Surrey

When you first step into counselling training, it can feel as though you’re entering a whole new world. Suddenly you’re immersed in skills practice, theory, ethics and placement opportunities. Among these new experiences, one of the most important requirements is engaging in your own personal therapy.

For some counselling students, the idea of therapy feels like an exciting opportunity to explore yourself more deeply. For others, it might seem like just another course requirement to “get through.” But the truth is, therapy during your training is about so much more than meeting your BACP or UKCP hours. It’s a powerful way of shaping your professional identity as a future counsellor.

From “Student” to “Counsellor”: The Role of Therapy in Professional Development

Counselling training isn’t just about learning skills, it’s about becoming a counsellor, it’s a vocation. Personal therapy provides a safe space where you can reflect on your personal and familial history which shapes and informs your own values, beliefs, biases and emotional responses, all of which is essential in helping you understand yourself and becoming the best practitioner you can be.

In your own sessions, you might notice:

• The ways you respond when someone truly listens without judgment
• How your personal history influences your style of relating to others
• The parts of yourself you struggle to sit with (which may show up in client work)
• Your feelings around authority, boundaries, and confidence as a trainee

These insights are the foundations of your professional identity. By noticing your own process in therapy, you’ll be better equipped to recognise what belongs to you and what belongs to your clients, something every ethical counsellor needs to be aware of and practice.

Why Therapy Is More Than “Personal Development Hours”

Most courses require a minimum number of therapy hours (often around 40 per year), and some students initially view these as boxes to tick. Therapy should never be viewed as a tick box exercise, but an aspect of your training that is essential, enlightening and powerful.

Unlike skills practice or supervision, personal therapy is a place where the spotlight is fully on you. This can feel challenging at times, especially if you’re more comfortable in the role of listener. Sitting in this vulnerable place is what allows you to develop resilience, self-awareness, and empathy, qualities that set the groundwork for your counselling practice.

Many students find online therapy especially helpful when balancing study, placements, and personal life. Whether you’re based in Guildford, Farnham, Woking, or further afield, you can access support without adding travel time into your schedule. I also offer in person counselling within my private practice in Godalming.

What to Expect in Therapy as a Counselling Student

In sessions, we may explore:

• How your training is impacting you emotionally
• The challenges of starting placement or managing “imposter syndrome”
• Past experiences that shape the way you listen and respond
• Your developing sense of self as a counsellor

My role isn’t to supervise or assess you, but to provide a confidential space where you can be fully yourself. Over time, this work often helps trainees feel more grounded, confident, and congruent.

Beginning the Counselling Journey

Starting out in counselling training can feel overwhelming, but personal therapy gives you a consistent anchor as you grow into your professional role. Whether you’re nervous about beginning sessions, curious about what might come up, or just looking for an affordable therapist who understands training requirements, I can support you.

If you’re a trainee counsellor looking for personal therapy in Surrey or online, I offer an initial call so we can explore whether working together feels right. You don’t have to figure it all out alone, therapy can be the place where your professional journey truly begins.
Get in touch if you have any questions or to arrange your first session

FAQS

Do you offer reduced-rate therapy for counselling students?
Yes. I offer a student counsellor rate of £60.00 for a 60-minute session. This reduced fee is designed to make personal therapy more accessible while you’re balancing training costs, placements, and personal commitments.

Is online therapy suitable for counselling trainees?
Yes. Many students find online therapy helpful when balancing coursework, placements, and personal commitments. It offers flexibility without compromising on depth or quality of support. However, please check with your course provider as some may specify that some or all of your therapy should be face to face.

What’s the difference between personal therapy and supervision during training?
Supervision focuses on your client work and professional practice, while personal therapy focuses on you. Therapy allows you to process your emotions, explore your history, and develop greater self-awareness, all of which are essential to strengthen your work with clients.