Category: Therapists

09:40:40 GMT • 11 November 2024

How to become a massage therapist

15 August 2023

•

7 mins read

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Have you ever considered how to become a massage therapist, and how to turn your skilled hands and passion for care into a career opportunity? Whether working full-time or on a self-employed basis, massage therapy could be your way to do a job that you love – and potentially earn a good living at the same time.

If you want to know how to become a massage therapist, then this guide is the perfect place to start. We’ll give you all the key information you need to know: the qualifications and skills you need to be successful, how much you could potentially earn, and how to go about setting up your own massage therapy business.

Why is massage therapy so popular?

Massage therapy is being used by more and more people, hence the rise in opportunities to make it a career. The range of massages that can be administered is huge, including sports massages that help muscles and joints, shiatsu that undoes any knots and stresses, and Swedish massages that reduce tension.

The physical benefits of massage therapy are well-known, but at a time when people’s mental wellbeing is in sharper focus, massages are increasingly being used to help the mind as well as the body. Being able to relax for a period of time, and remove all the strains and pains from the body, can make a huge difference to a person’s mood and character.

What does a massage therapist do?

Obviously, the core of your role as a massage therapist will be to deliver massages of the highest possible standard, and help your clients get the best possible results. But that’s only one part of the job.

There’s a lot of planning that goes into effective massage therapy and treatment. You’ll need to identify the areas of the body which need the most attention, and work out the best way to apply your hands to good effect. Within this, you may need to speak with the client to identify their needs and objectives, and potentially explore their lifestyle, diet and medical records as part of your planning.

Your business administration tasks will include keeping client records up-to-date; maintaining clear communication with clients before, during and after therapy; and referring clients to other medical professionals if you feel that they need further help. Connected to this, you may also be required to give advice to clients on how to maintain good physical and mental wellbeing in their day-to-day lives.

What qualifications does a massage therapist need?

While it’s true to say that it isn’t a legal requirement to get massage therapy qualifications, you’ll find it very difficult to progress your career without them. Businesses hiring massage therapists will be looking for your qualifications on your CV before pretty much everything else, while clients searching for self-employed massage therapists will want concrete proof of your credentials.

The good news is that you don’t need to commit the time and money of getting a degree to obtain the qualifications that you need. Instead, you can take more vocational courses like the International Massage Diploma, or a course certified for Continuous Professional Development (CPD). You can also explore options like a BTEC in Advanced Clinical and Sports Massage, as well as advanced vocational courses which can allow you to get trained in specific massage techniques and specialisms.

If you’re looking for an alternative that can allow you to work and train at the same time, then there may well be massage therapy apprenticeships available to you, too.

How long does it take to qualify as a massage therapist?

How long is a piece of string? There are so many different qualifications that there’s no fixed timeframe you should devote to becoming qualified. Certainly, you should expect to take anywhere between one and three years to get your credentials up to a good standard for a professional. However, you should never stop learning: there are always new techniques, opportunities and specialisms to explore, so in theory, your work to get qualified should be a constant process throughout your career.

How much do massage therapists earn?

There’s no hard and fast rule about how much you can earn as a qualified professional massage therapist. That’s because your location, level of experience, and specialist areas of expertise will all influence your earning potential. There’s also a substantial difference between working full-time for an employer, and working for yourself on a self-employed basis.

As a general rule, a full-time employed massage therapist can expect to earn around £30,000 a year, although this can be higher if you have specialisms or skills that are relatively rare or in high demand. If you work for yourself, then theoretically your earning power is limitless, depending on the hours you’re willing to work, the rates that you charge, the amount you lose to tax and expenses, and how well you market yourself.

How do I start my own massage therapy business?

If you decide to go down the self-employed route, then you’ll also have plenty of business-related duties to take on, in order to maximise your profitability and comply with rules and regulations. These include (and are not necessarily limited to):

Business type

You’ll first need to work out whether you want to operate as a sole trader or register as a limited company. While the limited company option is a little bit more complex from an administration perspective, it does give you separation between your personal finances and those of your business operation. If you run into debt or you face a substantial liability, this can give you extra protection and ensure that your home or other assets don’t end up at risk.

Rates and expenses

It’s vital to strike the right balance with the fees you charge your clients. You’ll need to take into account how much you want to earn, and how much you’re paying out in your business overheads and expenses. But you’ll also have to consider how competitive your rates are against other massage therapy businesses in your area, and avoid pricing yourself too cheap – or too expensive.

Marketing

It’s vital to get your name and your unique selling point out there, especially in a relatively saturated market like massage therapy. While social media and online promotion will play a big part, don’t overlook physical methods of advertising, such as leaflets, flyers, business cards and advertising your local paper. You should also try to leave marketing materials in places relevant to your specialism (e.g. at leisure centres if you offer sports massages).

Insurance

Insurance is strongly recommended for any small business – and if you employ anyone else to work for you, then having employer’s insurance cover is a legal requirement. Even if you provide your massages from home, you may not necessarily be covered under the terms of your home insurance, so it’s always strongly recommended to take out cover that’s specific to the nature of your business. Good cover will also protect the value of your equipment such as massage tables.

Get massage therapy insurance with Protectivity

As with every type of small business, taking out comprehensive insurance cover is crucial, particularly having specialised insurance for massage therapy.

Protectivity’s massage therapy insurance is designed with skilled entrepreneurs like you in mind. Our cover includes public liability insurance of up to £5million, professional indemnity, personal accident, equipment cover, and employers’ liability if you employ other people.

Our policies are available through flexible payment plans giving you peace of mind and the confidence to grow your business. Take a closer look at our massage therapy insurance in more detail today.

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16:16:46 GMT • 13 November 2024

How to become a sports therapist

1 August 2023

•

8 mins read

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If you love sport and want to make a career out of it, then become a sports therapist: it’s an excellent way for you to do something you enjoy and make some money out of it at the same time.

Sports therapy isn’t just limited to working for professional teams and athletes: there are plenty of members of the public and amateur competitors who can benefit from treatment, too. This means there’s a huge range of opportunities open to you if you want to turn it into a career, whether you want to become a sports therapist that works for someone, or branch out on your own.

In this guide, we’ll tell you all the basics you need to know on how to become a sports therapist: the types of treatments to provide, the jobs and business models available to you, and how much you can potentially earn.

What will I do if I become a sports therapist?

There are two major variations in sports therapy: the type of work and treatments that you deliver day-to-day, and where you’ll be working from.

Your normal duties could involve any or all of the following (and is by no means an exhaustive list!): examining injuries and diagnosing issues; planning out programmes and timescales for treatment; administering a range of treatments including massage, manipulation, electrotherapy and more; and work out how long it will take someone to regain full fitness.

You should also remember that there will be paperwork to fill in, too: for example, your treatment may well require a client’s medical records to be updated. In any case, you will certainly want to keep your own records on the treatments you have administered, and allow your clients to keep track of their progress.

Most people naturally think of a sports therapist working in a studio or specialist fitness centre, but this doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. You might find yourself working in a hospital (either NHS or private), out on a sports field during the game, or as part of the back-up crew at a mass participation event like a marathon. Naturally, this means that if you want to become a sports therapist, you should be prepared to work in all kinds of environments, both indoors and outdoors, and at unsociable hours.

How do I become a sports therapist?

The first thing to say is that you will definitely need some qualifications of a good standard if you want to become a sports therapist. However, there are multiple routes you can take to get the credentials that employers, clients and health bodies will be looking for.

If you decide to take the university route, then look for degrees in Physiotherapy, and make sure that your chosen course is approved by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). There is also the option of taking a postgraduate course if you have an undergraduate degree in something related like Sports Science or Biological Science. Be aware, though, that you may well need a first or upper-second class degree in order to qualify for the postgrad course.

If the university route isn’t available to you, then you can explore getting a degree apprenticeship and gain the skills and qualifications you need on the job, instead. These typically take around four years to complete, but give you the chance to work and gain relevant experience at the same time. Ideally, you’ll need two or three good A Levels to qualify for a physiotherapy apprenticeship, and one of them should be in Biology.

In either of the above cases, don’t neglect the value of volunteering to gain extra experience and improve your suitability for the courses. These can be in any healthcare or personal care role, and it’s also worth looking for work placements in private clinics, local sports teams or even nursing homes.

Another area that you should explore at an early stage is getting all the relevant registrations that you’ll need to provide sports therapy services professionally. Start by registering with the Health and Care Professions Council, and look for further information about the industry with the CSP and with Physios in Sport.

What skills will I need if I become a sports therapist?

Having the right qualifications and treatment skills is only half the story when becoming a sports therapist: you need plenty of positive human attributes, too. Ideally, you’ll have:

Compassion: the people you treat will likely feel upset, frustrated and/or in pain because of their injury, and they’ll be looking to you for emotional support just as much as physical aid. Being able to understand how someone is feeling with sensitivity and patience is therefore critical

Team skills: unless and until you branch out with your own sports therapist business, you’ll be working with other therapists and members of healthcare, fitness and administrative staff. You’ll need to build good relationships with all these people in order to build your reputation and grow your career, and be able to share knowledge and motivate others

Good hands: the vast majority of the treatments you’ll provide will be delivered by the hands, so you will need a good sense of touch. You should be able to apply your hands strongly enough to massage muscles or to apply effective treatment, but without causing undue pain or distress to the client

IT skills: most documentation and paperwork is now digitised, so you’ll need to have a reasonable working knowledge of common computer applications. You may also be required to get to grips with hand-held devices like tablets, especially if you’re working outdoors and remotely

Background checks: as you’ll be coming into physical contact with many different people, you will be legally required to pass enhanced background checks before taking up any sports therapist employment

How much can I earn as a sports therapist?

There is no hard and fast answer to how much you can earn, because there are so many different variables involved. However, many of them are variables that you can work on and influence, in order to maximise your earning ability:

Experience: as is the case in any walk of life, you’ll be starting at the bottom and working your way up. If you can prove your ability and build up years of experience, then you should be able to increase your earnings over time

Qualifications: the more credentials and certifications you have, the greater your credibility in the eyes of companies looking at hiring you. This perhaps can make an even bigger difference if you’re self-employed and trying to attract clients directly

Specialism: certain skills and areas of work are in high demand, and being able to offer proficiency in those skills can stand you out in competitive job markets. If there’s a particular area you’re interested in, look at focusing on experience and qualifications that can add focus to your CV

Location: some parts of the UK have higher average salaries than others (although this can be tempered by higher living costs, especially in and around London). However, if you have the ability and flexibility to move further afield, then your chances of finding a job that meets your earning expectations will increase

Business model: as you gain experience, you may decide to go it alone and set up your own sports therapist business. Theoretically, this means there is no limit on what you can earn, but it comes down to your talent, work ethic, communication skills, and the level of competition in your area

Generally speaking, as an employed sports therapist, you can expect to earn anything between £24,000 and £45,000 a year if you’re working full-time hours. However, if working evenings, weekends and bank holidays, these figures can increase.

Get sports therapist insurance with Protectivity

Every good sports therapist will understand that there can be a number of risks associated with the business. You can suffer an accident or injury, and perhaps even more concerning is if you cause injury to one of your clients. That, along with any damage to property or negligent advice, could lead to them making a claim for compensation against you, the costs of which could easily run into the thousands of pounds.

To cover yourself against these major financial consequences, we recommend taking out the comprehensive sports therapist insurance policy that we offer at Protectivity. Our cover encompasses public liability, professional indemnity up to £5million, and optional equipment cover, too.

Our policies start at just over £3 a month and can be paid for through flexible payment plans, meaning you can get protected without breaking the bank. Take a closer look at our sports therapist insurance policies today.

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16:21:23 GMT • 13 November 2024

Crystal Healing With Reiki

30 March 2023

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6 mins read

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In the same way that reiki is energy, crystals also emit energies – but why would you use crystals when giving reiki to a client? It’s because crystals are naturally formed in the Earth and vibrate at different frequencies, depending on their geological make up.

If you hold a crystal in your hand, you may feel a tingle or similar sensation which will differ from one crystal to another, and it’s these frequencies or vibrations that help to hone in to elements of our own energy. That’s why different crystals can help with different aspects that we may need help with. Using crystals can enhance the reiki and even target more substantial blockages in your client’s energy field. You could also stock crystals that you can infuse with reiki and recommend them to your clients as an upselling opportunity.

This guide covers all the basics around crystal healing with reiki.

How to pick the right crystals

Each crystal has its own set of ailments and circumstances it can help with. Broadly speaking, the colour of the crystal relates to the chakra it helps with, which is a good initial indicator when making your choice. If you feel you need to make more specific choices, then you may find looking at books or courses on crystals useful.

You don’t need to know every crystal and their uses to begin using them: with reiki, using your intuition is usually the best way to be guided when picking which crystals that client needs. As long as your intention is for the highest good of your client, you’ll be on the right track.

Best crystals for reiki healing

Make sure that you do proper research when buying crystals to make sure that they are ethically and responsibly sourced, and also of high quality. Reiki is a practice based on the highest good for all, so investing in such crystals is to remain true to these principles. We recommend the following as the best choices for reiki crystal healing:

Clear quartz

If you only start with one crystal, start with this one. As a master crystal, it can be used in place of all others and it can amplify the effects of the other crystals when used together.

Amethyst

Another good crystal to start with is amethyst, as it’s a useful all-rounder but especially good for opening up the crown and third-eye chakras. It increases intuition, calms the mind and is known for its calming properties.

Red jasper

This crystal is associated with the root chakra and is a great way to help with grounding clients at the end of a session.

Rose quartz/Jade

For gentle healing and opening up the heart chakra, these two can work to soften the heart and bring love (including self-love) for the client.

Smokey quartz

Mostly used for transmuting energy from negative into positive, smokey quartz is a great crystal to wear while conducting your reiki sessions.

Selenite

Selenite is a really effective crystal to clean the aura/energy field at the end of a session for client and practitioner and for charging the other crystals.

How to use crystals for reiki healing

How you use crystals during your sessions will depend on your preference and also how you are guided to use them if using your intuition.

Common methods include wearing crystal jewellery as a practitioner to shield yourself from your client’s energies and to keep yourself grounded, or chakra balancing by placing a corresponding crystal on each chakra for all or part of the session while you continue to send reiki. You could also consider making crystal grids under or around the reiki bed to amplify the energy, and cleansing the auras or energy fields of yourself and your client at the end of each session.

Once you’ve decided which crystal you are going to use, either place it directly on top of your client’s body (with permission) or nearby – for example, underneath the reiki bed or to the side of them. You can also hold the crystal in your hand, using it as a lens to send the reiki through.

How to clean and charge the crystals?

Crystals will accumulate energy as well as giving off their own, so it’s important to cleanse them between clients and charge them regularly to keep them working efficiently. There are several ways you can do this:

Selenite

Placing your crystals close to a piece of selenite for a few hours or overnight will cleanse and charge them. You can do this by buying selenite plates and bowls to put your crystals in.

Water

You can place some (but not all) crystals in fresh water or salt water to charge them, especially during a full moon. Make sure to check that your crystals are safe to put in water – as an example of what can go wrong, selenite should never be allowed to get wet or it will dissolve.

Smudging

Using the smoke from herbs such as sage, thyme, rosemary or lavender like an incense, you can cleanse the crystals by passing them through the smoke.

Reiki

Holding the crystals in your hands and sending them reiki can charge them with new energy, and you can set intentions for their next use.

Burial

Putting your crystals in the ground lets the Earth cleanse and charge them. As with using water, you’ll need to check which crystals are safe for this method, as some won’t be suitable.

Get your reiki insurance with Protectivity today

Whether or not you decide to integrate crystals into your reiki practice, it’s still important that you include good-quality insurance cover. As well as protecting yourself and your business against any issues, you’ll want to make sure that your investment into quality, ethically sourced crystals is protected and insured in case of damage, too.

At Protectivity, we offer specialist insurance policies for qualified reiki practitioners. Our insurance includes Public Liability cover in case of injury or damage to a third party, equipment cover and Professional Indemnity. Our cover is available from just a few pounds a month, and is available through flexible payment plans, so you can get peace of mind for minimal outlay. Take a closer look at our options for reiki insurance policies here.

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Best Hypnotherapy Techniques

14 February 2023

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6 mins read

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You might think that hypnotherapy is all about spinning spirals and feeling very sleepy. But there’s actually much more science behind it than you might think.

Hypnotherapy has its foundations in psychotherapy and neuroscience, and it’s been practised to great success since the late 19th century. Today, it’s used by people from all walks of life to help them improve their lifestyle and mental wellbeing: this means there are plentiful opportunities for hypnotherapists to offer treatments and establish successful, profitable businesses.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the basics of hypnotherapy, including how it works, the main types of treatment, and what to remember if setting up a hypnotherapy business.

What is hypnotherapy and how does it work?

First of all, it’s important to make clear that hypnotherapy is not a kind of mind control, despite what you might have seen on TV or in films over the years. Instead, it aims to get the mind into a more relaxed state, by taking it out of consciousness, so that it’s more open to new thoughts and ideas.

A hypnotherapist uses proven techniques to move the mind into an unconscious state that is only slightly above that of sleep. As a result, the mind is controlled by theta brain waves that can receive different thoughts, and not be constrained by the conscious mind finding reasons to close off those thoughts. It’s for this reason that hypnotherapy can be so effective and fast-acting for people who want to make changes in their life, from curing themselves of a phobia to giving up smoking.

How effective can hypnotherapy be?

The effectiveness of hypnotherapy naturally varies from person to person, depending on how their individual minds work and which types of hypnotherapy are most effective for them (more on those below).

However, when it works, the results can be astonishing. When people are trying to get into a new habit, or give up a bad one, it can take weeks or months for them to bake those changes into their minds, if indeed they ever manage it. Hypnotherapy, at its most effective, can almost be like flicking a switch, helping them embrace those changes in a matter of hours.

The speed of the change makes it a highly accessible and affordable means of therapy, especially for those who might not be able to afford long and expensive courses of psychotherapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Which are the most popular hypnotherapy techniques?

There are many different hypnotherapy techniques in use around the world, some of which are more well-known than others. But in the main, these six are the most common that people considering treatment are most likely to be looking for:

Suggestion hypnosis: perhaps the most common type, to the point of it often being called ‘traditional’ hypnosis, this is where hypnotherapists make suggestions to patients that encourage them to make changes in their lives. These suggestions don’t have to be dictated by the therapist: they can be mutually agreed before the treatment starts
Ericksonian hypnotherapy: this is more or less the opposite of suggestion hypnosis, where clients gradually reach a state of hypnosis over the course of a conversation. Clients play a much more active role in their treatment as they reach the intended mental state with the help of their therapist
Regression hypnotherapy: this type is perhaps closest to what people would consider psychiatry. In their hypnotic state, clients are encouraged to recall any memories from their past that may be causing the problem they want to solve, and apply new information to resolve the issue
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP): these techniques don’t involve bringing the client into any sort of hypnotic state – instead, the conversational principles of Ericksonian hypnotherapy are applied to people at any time and in any place. NLP has gained particular traction among business leaders to help them succeed
Self-hypnosis: while it is possible for people to hypnotise themselves, it can be extremely difficult to achieve, even for experienced professional hypnotherapists. Those capable of doing so can apply it at any time in their lives, to help them resolve any problems that might come their way
Primers: this is the name given to hypnosis delivered through pre-recorded audio. Previously, this would have been on cassettes or CDs, but technology now makes it much easier to deliver these treatments to clients digitally. They are generally the cheapest and most accessible means of trying hypnotherapy, and so are ideal for those new to the concept

Which hypnotherapy techniques are best?

There’s no simple answer to this question, as it will vary so much for both parties. As mentioned above, some people will be far more receptive to some types of hypnotherapy than others. Additionally, from a business perspective, you may find that certain types are more popular (and therefore more profitable) with customers in your local area.

So the best way to proceed as a hypnotherapist is not to put all your eggs in one basket. Often, a combination of multiple types of hypnotherapy can generate better results, while being able to deliver many different types broadens your potential customer base as wide as possible. That’s why it’s important to get trained and qualified in as many techniques as you can, and brush up on your knowledge and expertise on a regular basis.

Get hypnotherapist insurance with Protectivity

Hypnotherapy is not without its risks, and it’s always possible that treatment can have unintended consequences that may cause patients to get hurt, even if you’re highly trained and qualified. If you’re running a hypnotherapy business, this can leave you vulnerable to a claim that can have severe ramifications from a financial perspective. This is why, just like any other type of therapy enterprise, it’s absolutely essential to have comprehensive insurance cover in place.

Protectivity is one of the only insurers in the UK that offers specific hypnotherapy insurance cover. Our policies can include public liability cover of up to £5 million, in case your treatment or advice leads to accident or injury, as well as professional indemnity, and optional equipment cover of up to £3000. That way, you can treat people with any type of hypnotherapy with confidence, and give yourself peace of mind.

Take a more detailed look at everything our hypnotherapy insurance and counselling insurance have to offer.

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Six Key Benefits of Massage Therapy

9 February 2023

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5 mins read

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Massage is often thought of as a way to improve the condition of specific areas of the body, or to achieve an overall feeling of relaxation. But that’s only scratching the surface of what it can do to the human body.

Good massage therapy, administered correctly and in the right environment, can transform a person’s wellbeing, both physically and mentally. In this guide, we’ll explore six of the biggest benefits that massage therapists like you can deliver to your clients, all of which can act as strong selling points for your business.

What kinds of massage can be beneficial?

As long as they’re done properly, any type of massage can help a person improve their physical and mental condition. This applies whether it’s a sports massage that targets the muscles and joints, a relaxing Swedish massage aimed at reducing tension, or even a shiatsu massage that relieves the body of any specific stresses and knots.

The key is to match the right massage approach to the right client, depending on their needs and preferences. For example, somebody who is wanting to relax and destress will be far more suited to aromatherapy or hot stone massages than a more intensive sports massage.

For more detailed information on different types of massage, have a look at our special guide.

The physical benefits

The most obvious benefits of a massage are to the body of the person being treated. This will vary from person to person, and across different types of massage, but there are many different positives that a client can take, including:

Muscles and circulation

Massages can help reduce any tightness or stiffness in muscles that can hamper the ability of people to move freely and without any pain. Related to this, a massage can also improve the circulation of blood through the body for a better body condition overall, and reduce any inflammation that may occur in joints over time.

Sleep and energy

When a massage removes any pain or stress from the body, the person being treated will find it much easier to get a good night’s sleep. This can have huge knock-on benefits to a person’s overall health, as they will have more energy and focus during the day, whether they’re at work, at home or exercising. Those who regularly work out will also find their bodies recover from exertion much faster.

Comfort and immune system

Being in regular or constant pain can be extremely draining, both physically and mentally, so a massage that relieves that pain (even if only temporarily) can make a huge difference to a person. With a better condition inside and out, people may also find themselves with a stronger immune response and more able to fend off illnesses and bugs. For older people in particular, this can be especially valuable.

The mental benefits

The difference that massage therapy can make to a person’s mental wellbeing is often overlooked, but it can’t be underestimated. While the mental benefits aren’t always obvious, they can be long-lasting and transformative to a person’s life:

Stress and relaxation levels

Perhaps the clearest mental benefit is that people generally feel more relaxed after a massage, and certainly less stressed than they were before it started. This can help people relax more at home and not get overly wound up by things and people around them, which can make a huge difference in day-to-day life.

Mood and relationships

Connected to the previous point, a more relaxed and less stressed person is far more likely to be in a better mood more of the time. This can improve the relationships a person has in their lives, from their partner or family through to their professional relationships at work. It can also help decrease anxiety levels and minimise the risk of people worrying about things in life unnecessarily.

Sense of wellbeing

A massage can help promote a more general sense of wellness within a person: they can feel more balanced and comfortable with the world around them. Even if there is no specific reason that a person comes for a massage, it can still be beneficial for their general wellbeing, acting as a time and space to unwind.

Get massage therapy insurance with Protectivity

Every type of massage comes with a certain element of risk, whether it’s unintentional injury caused to a client or equipment being lost, damaged or stolen. When these unforeseen incidents occur, having good insurance cover in place is vital, so that you don’t end up out of pocket.

Protectivity offers comprehensive massage therapy insurance to masseurs and masseuses just like you. Including public liability, professional indemnity, equipment cover and more, you can give yourself peace of mind from just a few pounds a month. Take a closer look at our specialist massage therapist insurance here.

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What is Mediumship?

25 January 2023

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5 mins read

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We all live in a challenging world, and it’s perfectly understandable that many people feel they need spiritual help to guide them through their lives. This is especially the case for those who have lost someone close to them, and feel they need some guidance to help them along the way.

It’s for that reason that many people turn to mediumship for this spiritual guidance, which is helping mediumship become a viable business option. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the basics of mediumship, the different types of practice, and how to set up a mediumship business.

What’s the difference between a medium and a psychic?

Put simply, a medium is a type of psychic who specifically uses their powers in order to communicate with the spirits of the dead. By being able to make contact with deceased people on behalf of the living, mediums can help the living better deal with the loss of a loved one or gain spiritual advice to help them in the future.

A psychic, on the other hand, refers more generally to anybody who can connect with the paranormal in any way.

What types of mediums are there?

There are six different types of mediumship skills. Some mediums will focus mainly on one of them, while others will be able to spiritually connect through several. As this list demonstrates, the types are based around the five ‘traditional’ senses, plus one that’s emotional:

Clairvoyance: the ability to see people, places, colours, symbols or objects within the mind
Clairaudience: being able to hear sounds or speech from a spirit
Clairgustance: understanding a spiritual presence or substance through taste
Clairtangency: using the sense of touch to hold or touch an object or person, and garner information through it
Clairscent: the ability to smell a spirit’s odour or fragrance and derive information
Clairsentience:being able to receive feelings and emotions from a spirit

How do you become a medium?

Firstly, it’s vital to discern whether or not you have any psychic abilities. You may feel that you do, but it’s important to know for sure before you start marketing and selling your services to the public. A good starting point is to ask for some advice or assessment from a renowned industry professional. Many offer training courses on how to harness your psychic abilities to best effect as a medium, and these may be the best people to get in touch with.

There is no official or legal requirement to possess any qualifications or licences in order to become a medium. However, taking some courses and gaining some credentials can give you some gravitas that makes you look authentic to the public. It can also help you learn new skills at the same time.

Aside from the mediumship-related areas, there are also a number of business factors and costs to consider, as is the case with any kind of therapy. For example, are you going to operate as a sole trader or as a limited company? How are you going to market your business? How will you set up your website and social media channels, and what information will they provide? Researching other mediums can give you an idea of what to do in these areas, and help you understand if there are any gaps in the market that you can exploit.

Finally, you should also work out where you are going to provide your mediumship services from. Do you want to operate from your own home, from the homes of clients, from a dedicated venue, or from a combination of all three? Working this out will help you understand the likely costs you’ll incur, how much you’ll need to charge for each session, and any insurance cover you might need to protect your interests, revenue and equipment (if any).

Get mediumship insurance with Protectivity

However you operate as a medium, it’s important not to overlook the value of good-quality insurance cover for your business. After all, some things really are impossible to predict, and you don’t want to end up out of pocket.

At Protectivity, we offer specialist insurance policies for mediums, including Public Liability cover in case of injury or damage to a third party, equipment cover and Professional Indemnity. Our cover is available from just a few pounds a month, and is available through flexible payment plans, so you can get peace of mind for minimal outlay.

Take a closer look at our options for mediumship insurance policies here.

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8 Tools and Resources for Mental Health Therapists

10 January 2023

•

6 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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As a mental health therapist, you’re sure to want the best resources at hand to support your clients on their mental health journey. If you’re looking for tools to improve your day-to-day work as a therapist, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of valuable resources to support both your work and those who are receiving value from your services.

Here are some of the best tools for therapists to help support your day-to-day work as a mental health professional.

Recommended books for mental health therapists

Learning and developing doesn’t need to stop once you’ve graduated from university. While there are several books aimed at psychology students, licensed professional therapists should aim to continue learning and developing their knowledge throughout their careers.

Here are some of the best reading materials to help develop your expertise and refresh your knowledge.

1. Emotional Intelligence: Why it Can Matter More Than IQ – Daniel Goleman

First published in 1995, Goleman’s bestseller argues that emotional intelligence is actually a stronger indicator for success than your IQ. The book covers topics such as self-awareness, impulse control, empathy and social deftness, which Goleman explains are all integral to the workplace. This famous work is an insightful exploration into the role of emotional intelligence at work – a great perspective for therapists looking to help their clients.

2. On Becoming a Person: A Therapist’s View of Psychotherapy – Carl R. Rogers

First published in 1961, Carl R. Rogers’ renowned book offers a therapist’s perspective on psychotherapy – making it a must-read for those interested in clinical psychology. Rogers was the founder of the humanistic psychology movement – a movement in psychology that supported the belief that humans are unique beings and should be treated as such by psychologists and psychiatrists. Rogers’ influence spanned decades and became an influential part of mainstream psychology. While the book was written several decades ago, Rogers’ work remains topical and relevant in today’s world.

3. The Makings of a Therapist: A Practical Guide for the Inner Journey – Louis Cozolino

Starting out as a newly qualified therapist can feel daunting. If you’re looking for some words of wisdom by a veteran therapist, Louis Cozolino’s classic text is a must-read. This book works as a go-to guide for new therapists seeing clients for the first time, with all the things Cozolino wishes someone had told him in his first few months of clinical training. The book includes guidance about working with your clients, from handling direct questions to encouraging them to talk more. It’s an honest and thoughtful text that should give you some reassurance if you’re just starting out in your career and are in need of some guidance.

Recommended blogs for mental health therapists

Following blogs can help you keep up-to-date with the latest trends in therapy, have resources on hand for career development and be aware of any challenges faced within the practice. Each of the blogs below offer unique perspectives to therapy that you can resonate with.

1. Kim Rosenthal – kimrosenthalmd.com

Kim Rosenthal is a practicing psychiatrist who has spent most of her career as a travelling doctor. Her blog covers a range of topics from addiction to marriage and relationships, and she has also produced two workbooks on addiction to support both those in recovery, and clinicians. Each of her articles are filled with information, passion and intellect making her blog one not to be missed.

2. Psychotherapy.net

Pyschotherapy.net believes that great therapists never stop learning. Their blog is home to a variety of articles, spanning across several areas of psychology from trauma to couples therapy. Each article is written by a professional in psychotherapy, from therapists to counsellors. If you’re looking to keep in touch with the latest news surrounding the therapist field, Psychotherapy.net’s blog is the place to go. You’ll find in-depth articles written by like-minded professionals, sure to leave you inspired.

3. The British Psychological Society’s The Psychologist

The Psychologist is an official publication of the British Psychological Society. Their well-established blog includes articles, interviews, reviews and career opportunities. It’s a great way to keep in the know with all areas of the psychology discipline. The team all have qualifications in psychology and related subjects, so are well-versed to guide and inspire therapists like yourself.

Useful worksheets and downloads for mental health therapists

1. Get Self Help worksheets

Get Self Help offers free, downloadable worksheets suitable for CBT sessions with your clients.

2. Therapist Aid

Therapist Aid offers free, downloadable worksheets for mental health professionals, to help support them with their clients’ therapy sessions. They offer a variety of worksheets and information booklets on several topics to help support your clients.

Recommended social media groups for mental health therapists

Social media is a great way to get your name out there, advertise your therapy services and meet like-minded professionals.

Facebook is a valuable resource for therapists looking to connect with one another. Groups such as Online Therapist Group are a space for licensed therapists and other mental health professionals who are looking to create an online psychotherapy practice or expand their in-person private practice.

Instagram is also a great place to connect with like-minded individuals. If you’re a therapist looking to grow your online profile, advertise your services and share your thoughts – Instagram is the answer. Take a look at Dr. Nicole LePera (the.holistic.psychologist) for example – with over five million followers, her Instagram profile has become a hub of knowledge and community, allowing her to connect with others and share her expertise.

What are the benefits of using tools for day-to-day work?

As a therapist, using tools such as worksheets and books can greatly benefit your day to day work, and improve the therapy sessions you conduct with patients.

Using worksheets can help you document sessions your clients have with you, and offer you new approaches to explore in therapy sessions. They also complement the behavioural therapy you may be running with a client by allowing them to dig deeper into their emotions and meet their mental health goals.

Get your mental health therapist insurance with Protectivity

As a therapist, you’ll want to go to work each day with the confidence that should the unexpected happen, you have the support to put wrong to right. Our therapist insurance will cover you for compensation claims should you accidentally injure a client or damage their property while conducting your therapy service. You’ll also be covered for Professional Indemnity should you ever be sued for any negligent advice given to your clients. Get a quote for therapy insurance today and get the peace of mind that you deserve.

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11:59:56 GMT • 14 November 2024

7 of the Best Hypnotherapy Training Courses

By Steffi Cavaliere

30 December 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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Choosing the best hypnotherapy training for you depends on a number of factors, including location, time, whether or not you want to practice on clients, and cost. You may also need to consider whether you want to attend training in-person or online, and whether you prefer to focus on any specialist areas.

Below we’ve put together a list of some of the UK’s best hypnotherapist training providers, some of the best courses, and how much it might cost you to become a qualified hypnotherapist.

Hypnotherapist training providers

If you’re interested in becoming a certified hypnotherapist, you will likely want to consider a Hypnotherapy in Practice Diploma (HPD), which is only offered by providers accredited by the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH). An HPD is considered one of the most highly regarded qualifications a hypnotherapist can obtain and is suitable for those wanting to practice professionally.

In order to become an NCH-accredited training provider, there are a number of standards that must be met:

Minimum of 120 hours classroom teaching
Occupational competence as trainers and experienced practitioners
Learning programme covers all the HPD outcomes
Schools provide the appropriate level of teaching, support, tutoring and assessment to enable all students to gain the NCH (HPD) if they choose to

In the UK there are currently more than 40 accredited hypnotherapy training providers. Below is just a small selection you may want to consider before you begin your training.

Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy School

With more than 30 schools across the UK and beyond, Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy School shouldn’t be too far from any students interested in practicing hypnotherapy.

Hypnotherapy courses are suitable for beginners or those with experience in a similar field, and cover everything from the basics to setting up your own business. Learning is done over 10 modules and involves 120 hours of classroom sessions. It can be done full-time or over weekends for those in existing employment.

Costs are £2,950 in full or £295 per month.

UK Academy of Therapeutic Arts and Sciences

The UK Academy of Therapeutic Arts and Sciences is based in the Southwest and offers a 450-hour course that is taken part-time over the course of a year. A number of experienced tutors work with students to provide them with in-depth knowledge and prepare them for a career in hypnotherapy.

The cost of the course is £2,675.

The Quest Institute

The Quest Institute, based in Cornwall, provides three courses including an 11-month hypnotherapy diploma and an 8-month course to become a Cognitive Hypnotherapy Master Practitioner. Learning is done through a combination of in-person sessions and video conferencing.

There is a variety of payment options available and the total costs are approximately £3,525.

Hypnotherapist qualifications and training courses

As we’ve already highlighted, if you’re looking for a highly respected and regarded qualification, a Hypnotherapy in Practice Diploma will enable you to pursue a career in the field.

However, there is a range of certifications, diplomas and higher-education qualifications you may be interested in to expand your knowledge so you can offer the best possible service to your clients.

Certificates

Certificates are often introductory and will cover the basics such as post-grad certificates and certificates in personal and professional development.

Hypnotherapy Practitioner Course

The Hypnotherapy Practitioner Course at the Centre of Excellence is a 15-module, 150-hour course that is self-directed, and upon completion rewards students with two certificates. Modules cover a variety of topics including stress management, stopping smoking and suggestibility tests.

Learning is all home-based, and the cost is £147.

Certificate in Hypnotherapy

The Certificate in Hypnotherapy from Chrysalis Courses Online is the perfect place to start for those new to Hypnotherapy. Training takes a minimum of four weeks to complete, with three modules covering an introduction to hypnotherapy, knowledge development, and successful relaxation. Assessments are coursework based and there is a useful forum so students can interact.

The course costs £349 or six instalments of £58.16.

Diplomas

Diplomas are the next stage, and include diplomas, post-grad diplomas and medical diplomas. Students should study for a diploma if they wish to become qualified, professional hypnotherapists.

Hypnotherapy Diploma Course

The UK College of Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy offers a great introduction to those new to the field and teaches future hypnotherapists 35 techniques. It also ensures that 50% of the course is dedicated to practical exercises.

Costs start from £129.59 per month for online self-directed learning, or £199.50 per month for full training including one-to-one sessions.

Diploma in Advanced Clinical Hypnosis and Mind Therapies

In Scotland, The Scottish Academy of Hypnosis and Mind Therapies offers a Diploma in Advanced Clinical Hypnosis and Mind Therapies. Courses start at various times throughout the year and are classroom based. Modules cover how to approach meeting the client, working with anxiety and bad habits.

The course costs £2,600 and is taken one weekend per month over 10 months.

Higher education

While there are no hypnotherapy-specific higher-education courses, if you’re interested in pursuing a degree in a field related to hypnotherapy, including a BSC (Bachelor of Science), a MSc (Masters degree), or a doctorate, you may want to consider:

Psychology
Counselling
Psychotherapy
Psychiatry
Social care
Nursing

However, while a higher-education qualification will equip you with specific and in-depth knowledge, it isn’t necessary in order to become a fully qualified hypnotherapist.

Cost of becoming a qualified hypnotherapist

As we’ve already highlighted above, the cost of becoming a fully qualified hypnotherapist in the UK is between £2,500 and £3,500. Many training providers also offer a range of monthly payment plans to help you spread the cost over the duration of the course (with some also requiring a deposit). Courses will usually take around one year to complete.

Next steps after qualifying

Once you’ve completed approximately 120 – 150 hours of training and received your diploma, you’re qualified to begin working with clients.

One consideration is whether you will want to be self-employed and source and treat clients yourself, or work with an existing business (for example, a health spa). There are many advantages and disadvantages to both, and neither is the better choice – it depends on what you want out of your new career as a qualified hypnotherapist.

If you’re looking to become a self-employed hypnotherapist but you’re not sure where to start, an additional course on how to set up a business may be required. However, many hypnotherapy courses do go into detail on how to set up a hypnotherapy business and how to find clients.

Get your hypnotherapist insurance with Protectivity

Are you a qualified hypnotherapist, either new to the field or with years of experience, working with clients? Get your hypnotherapist insurance or Counselling insurance with Protectivity for a small monthly fee.

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11:50:07 GMT • 14 January 2025

How Much Does a Therapist Cost in the UK?

By Steffi Cavaliere

9 November 2022

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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As a therapist, you may be wondering how much you should charge your clients. It depends on a number of factors, including your level of experience, whether you’re a private therapist, whether you’re self-employed, your area of expertise and your whereabouts in the UK.

Generally, private therapists in the UK can charge anything from £40-150 for a 50-60 minute session. The greater your level of experience and the more specialist your area of expertise, the more you’re able to charge. The cost will also depend on any overheads you may have, such as business premises (including expenses like rent and utilities) or additional staff (such as a receptionist). For example, a therapist based in a central London practice will charge more than a home-based therapist who operates solely online.

Another variable is the number of hours a therapist works. A therapist may approximately have 30 patients per week, with the rest of their time focusing on planning sessions, writing notes and developing their skills and knowledge with additional training and certifications. As a result, their rates may be higher to account for the time spent when not one-on-one with clients.

Of course, a therapist will also want to take home a liveable salary as well. So with all these variables in mind, how much does a therapist cost in the UK? We’ve taken data available on Payscale, Talent.com, Indeed and Prospects.ac.uk to work out the average salary and average hourly earnings for therapists in the UK.

Average salary of a therapist by region in the UK

The average cost of a therapist varies widely by region. Below are the average salaries of therapists (across a wide range of specialties) across the UK, and the equivalent hourly amount based on spending time with clients for 30 hours per week.

These amounts don’t take into account experience and don’t include overheads such as rent, utilities, travel, public liability insurance and other staff wages. Because of this, therapists with additional overheads will naturally cost more – sometimes much more depending on those overheads. With this in mind, you may expect to add approximately £20-£100 to the below hourly rates.

London

Approximately £38,656 per year or £26.84 per hour.

South West

Approximately £30,385 per year or £21.10 per hour.

South East

Approximately £31,594 per year or £21.94 per hour.

Midlands

Approximately £38,551 per year or £26.77 per hour.

East

Approximately £39,360 per year or £27.33 per hour.

North East

Approximately £37,158 per year or £25.80 per hour.

North West

Approximately £38,498 per year or £26.73 per hour.

Scotland

Approximately £19,396 per year or £13.47 per hour.

Wales

Approximately £36,010 per year or £25.01 per hour.

Average cost of a therapist by specialism

So, how much does a therapist cost depending on specialism? While the average hourly rate of a therapist can vary based on region, costs are even more varied when specialism is taken into account. While all therapists require skill, training and dedication, some require more than others. As a result, some therapists will be able to charge more. However, this can fluctuate depending on skill, experience, reputation and, once again, overheads.

Below are approximations for the cost of a therapist across various specialisms. Like above, £20-100 can be added to the below hourly costs depending on experience and overheads.

Massage Therapists

Approximately £23,945 per year or £16.63 per hour.

Physical Therapists

Approximately £27,650 per year or £19.20 per hour.

Occupational Therapists

Approximately £28,412 per year or £19.73 per hour.

Respiratory Therapists

Approximately £29,000 per year or £20.14 per hour.

Mental Health Therapists

Approximately £27,565 per year or £19.14 per hour.

Beauty Therapists

Approximately £19,975 per year or £13.87 per hour.

Radiation Therapists

Approximately £27,186 per year or £18.88 per hour.

Clinical Therapists

Approximately £35,000 per year or £24.31 per hour.

Paediatric Therapists

Approximately £40,057 per year or £27.82 per hour.

Behavioural Therapists

Approximately £38,890 per year or £27.01 per hour.

Speech Therapists

Approximately £26,026 per year or £18.07 per hour.

Music Therapists

Approximately £29,297 per year or £20.35 per hour.

CBT Therapists

Approximately £42,945 per year or £29.82 per hour.

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Now that you have more of an idea as to how much a therapist earns and charges, why not secure counselling business insurance? Get your therapy business insurance from £3.14 a month.

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