The Centre for Psychotherapy in Hebrew
The Centre was established 3 years ago by a group of Hebrew speaking therapists who are mental health specialists.
The Centre has two primary aims:
- To assist Israelis residing in London who are in need of psychological counselling or therapy in accessing suitable treatment.
- To consult to newly arriving Israeli mental health professionals on opportunities for study and work in the field in London.
Mental health services in the UK:
There are different mental health services in the UK and therefore also therapists from different training and professional backgrounds.
In the public sectors there are outpatient clinics for children and adolescents (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and for adults. Therapists from different professions work in these clinics – psychotherapists, clinical psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists. There are also counsellors who are generally attached to General Practices in health centres.
Referral to these services can be made by a GP or, in some instances, another professional, or a person can self refer.
There are often lengthy waiting lists in the public health sector (National Health Service) and the treatment offered is likely to be short term.
In Israel there are 3 core profession in the field of mental health: psychiatry, clinical psychology and social work. In the UK, in addition to these, there is a separate profession of psychotherapy which is studied in psychotherapy training schools/institutions. Qualified psychotherapists are registered with professional associations (BCP, UKCP). It is recommended that when choosing a psychotherapist in private practice, only those registered with the above organisations should be approached.
In England there is a difference between a counsellor and a psychotherapist. Usually the training of the counsellor is shorter and is directed to short term focused interventions to resolve specific problems. Sometimes difficulties do not resolve easily and repeat themselves. This may be because problems in the present stir up feelings from the past of which the person is not consciously aware. The psychotherapist is equipped to help people understand hidden aspects of themselves and through this promote change and development. Clinical psychologists in England are usually trained in a cognitive behavioural approach. Psychotherapists are mainly trained in a psychoanalytic or psychodynamic approach. Clinical psychologists have their own professional association (BPS).
Assistance to Israelis needing counselling or psychotherapy.
Immigration and migration from one country to another can be problematic. Many Israelis run into difficulties because of the separation from Israel and the sense of alienation and lack of belonging in England. The transition can expose inner and familial difficulties. Israelis who are in need of help often prefer to see a professional who is himself/herself from Israel and familiar with the culture and language. This understanding underpinned the decision to establish a centre for psychotherapy in Hebrew. Our centre consists of psychotherapists who are experts in therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Anyone applying to the Centre will be given an appointment with a therapist to discuss his/her problems or those of the family. On the basis of the initial assessment we will be able to make an appropriate referral the person or family. Some will be referred for therapy within the Centre. Others will be referred to either the public or private sectors, according to need.
Consultation to mental health professionals:
In most cases even a qualified and experienced professional will be required to undergo some supplementary training before being able to work in the field. We will be pleased to give detailed information and to assist as much as possible.
We will be glad to help any Israelis who contact us.
