Finding the right sleep consultant can be daunting, but with a few tips to guide your search, you can make sure you find a consultant that fits your budget and meets all of your needs. Learn what to look for in a qualified sleep consultant, as well as secrets to help you determine if they are right for you and your family.
Research Credentials and Certifications
Child sleep consulting is an unregulated industry, so it can be hard to know how to find a good one. Before selecting a sleep consultant, it’s important to do your research and make sure they have the appropriate certifications and have undertaken a course that includes live lessons with tutors and a large number of study hours. Look for a consultant that has credentials from well-regarded organisations, such as the London School of Childcare Studies which has a Sleep Practitioner course accredited at level 5 by the Open College Network (OCN).
Make Sure Their Values Align With Yours
It is also helpful to research a sleep consultant’s values and beliefs before selecting them for the job. Consider whether the consultant’s sleep philosophy matches up with your own family values. Additionally, review their policies for scheduling appointments, fees for services, and refund/cancellation policies. Doing this will ensure that the consultant you choose aligns with the way you prefer to be treated as a consumer.
Know Their Typical Process and Fee Structure
A trustworthy sleep consultant should have a transparent fee structure and process. It is best to ask the consultant directly about their typical process and fee structure. Common questions to ask include what services they offer, how they deliver them (in person or online), how long those services usually last, and whether they accommodate those with budgetary constraints. It’s also a good idea to inquire if the consultant offers any discounts for families in need or multi-session packages.
Read Reviews and Testimonials From Other Clients
When researching sleep consultants, it’s important to look for reviews and testimonials from past and current clients. Reading first-hand accounts of people who have used the consultant's services can give you an idea of what their experience was like. If you are unable to find any reviews online, consider asking the consultant if they have any testimonials that could be shared with you. Knowing how satisfied or unsatisfied other clients were can help you make a more informed decision about who to hire as your sleep consultant.
Even better, ask some friends if they can recommend someone they have used - it's a sure-fire way to find someone who is likely to be trustworthy, reliable and a good fit.
If you want to find out more about what it's like working with me, then please feel free to get in touch.