The mark of a professional

The Federation of Holistic Therapists’ Karen Young looks at some simple ways to help you promote your professional status…

WHETHER you are new to the industry or returning to therapy work as we ease our way out of the pandemic, it’s important to make a positive impression on your clients. Below are a few suggestions on how to demonstrate your professionalism …

Professional recognition

Therapy work is very personal by nature and requires a high level of trust on the client’s part. Being part of a professional association such as the FHT not only demonstrates that you are appropriately qualified and insured, it shows that you adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and Professional Practice and are accountable for your actions. It will also mean you can access a range of support materials to show off your professional status, including a membership certificate, logo and badge, as well as a directory listing and printed and digital collateral to help promote you and the therapies you practice.

In safe hands

While the majority of clients have been very eager to return to their therapist after the lockdowns, some may still be a little concerned about having close contact with someone other than their immediate family and friends, and particularly if they have a condition that makes them vulnerable. While hygienic practice is of course second nature to professional therapists, be sure to highlight in all of your communications that you adhere to government guidelines for COVID-19 and that protecting your clients’ health and safety is at the heart of everything you do.

Scope of practice and your clients’ best interests

The mark of a good therapist is sometimes knowing when it’s best not to treat a client and having the confidence to refer them on to a more appropriate health professional or service provider. No matter how advanced your training or how experienced you are, there will be times when it is best to signpost a client to their doctor, an allied health professional, or another therapist, charity or support group, because you recognise that their individual needs fall outside of your scope of practice.

Lifelong learning

Continuing professional development (CPD) is a great way of keeping up to date with changes in the industry, honing your skills and learning new ways to support your clients. It is a common misconception that CPD always involves attending a training course or spending lots of money – reflective practice, case studies, developing a marketing plan and attending local group meetings can also count towards CPD for FHT members (find out more at www.fht.org. uk/cpd or contact your professional association for more information).

Plan in some me-time

Therapy work is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be a little draining, particularly if your work is very physical or involves regularly supporting poorly clients. It is important to take good care of your own physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, in order to be able to truly support others. Telling your clients that you can’t see them on a particular day because you are taking some me-time might also help to reinforce the importance of self-care. You may even want to consider supervision or another form of peer support if you work with certain client groups (for example, those receiving palliative or end of life care). n

iThe FHT offers a range of membership benefits to holistic therapists and runs the largest independently Accredited Register for complementary healthcare therapists. For more information visit www.fht.org.uk or call 023 8062 4350.