Jon Levett notes the importance of checking a therapist’s credentials and the action that can be taken, while Stephanie Calman says it would be useful to have one official licensing and regulation body

There is a lack of understanding of the role of voluntary registers in the regulation of those practising psychotherapy ( MPs urge government to regulate UK psychotherapists and counsellors, 9 October ). The UK Council for Psychotherapy’s registers of psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors, accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA), only include practitioners who meet our exacting standards , robust training requirements and abide by our ethical and professional code .

For the small minority of clients who are not content with the service they receive from a registered practitioner, we have a clear and effective process for managing and investigating complaints. We will look into cases where there is evidence that calls into question a therapist’s suitability to be on our register. UKCP also accredits training bodies that adhere to our high standards of education and training.