Counselling in Greater Glasgow
![Photo of Naheeda Din, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b35b052-8d1d-46b2-823f-e45fad86f875/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our journey through life can be rough at times, and when that happens it’s healthy to get a little support. It can be overwhelming to do everything alone, so taking a moment to express ourselves to a professional and empathetic CBT therapist can make a great difference in our lives. My effectiveness as a therapist stems from empathetic listening, genuine compassion, and a non-judgemental attitude. The ability to establish a trusting therapeutic alliance creates a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions.
Our journey through life can be rough at times, and when that happens it’s healthy to get a little support. It can be overwhelming to do everything alone, so taking a moment to express ourselves to a professional and empathetic CBT therapist can make a great difference in our lives. My effectiveness as a therapist stems from empathetic listening, genuine compassion, and a non-judgemental attitude. The ability to establish a trusting therapeutic alliance creates a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions.
![Photo of Dr Rachel M Allan, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad87435a-9b2a-4034-8737-708203b65ff6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Rachel M Allan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Glasgow G2 (Online Only)
When it is time to talk to someone, finding the right professional is an important step. I specialise in helping people move through traumatic events, loss, and unhelpful patterns (recent and past), towards growth, recovery and freedom. My approach is supportive and respectful. In therapy, I focus on witnessing what you have been through, understanding where you want to get to, and working with you to get the results you are looking for. Please visit my website to see what previous clients have said about our work together.
When it is time to talk to someone, finding the right professional is an important step. I specialise in helping people move through traumatic events, loss, and unhelpful patterns (recent and past), towards growth, recovery and freedom. My approach is supportive and respectful. In therapy, I focus on witnessing what you have been through, understanding where you want to get to, and working with you to get the results you are looking for. Please visit my website to see what previous clients have said about our work together.
![Photo of Jill Ogston, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f8e0aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I am Dr Jill Ogston and I am a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist at The Beacon Practice. I offer psychological assessment and therapeutic intervention in West and Central Scotland. I work with children, adults and families to help them understand and manage a wide range of emotional difficulties. In addition, I have particular expertise in working with people with Autism Spectrum Conditions and related conditions; in providing support to live in a neurotypical world, with emotional difficulties and in providing an opinion on whether a full assessment of Autism would be helpful.
Hi I am Dr Jill Ogston and I am a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist at The Beacon Practice. I offer psychological assessment and therapeutic intervention in West and Central Scotland. I work with children, adults and families to help them understand and manage a wide range of emotional difficulties. In addition, I have particular expertise in working with people with Autism Spectrum Conditions and related conditions; in providing support to live in a neurotypical world, with emotional difficulties and in providing an opinion on whether a full assessment of Autism would be helpful.
![Photo of Helen Sanders, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5117bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client would be someone wanting to gain self-awareness and insight into themselves. A person who is ready to seek a space for exploration and wants to use it to find out who they are, not what society and other people are telling them they should be, but their authentic voice. The client would want to find greater freedom by exploring the life journey they have been on and what this has meant to them. It's not for me to tell the client what their goals are but for me to provide them with a therapeutic space so they can find out for themselves.
My ideal client would be someone wanting to gain self-awareness and insight into themselves. A person who is ready to seek a space for exploration and wants to use it to find out who they are, not what society and other people are telling them they should be, but their authentic voice. The client would want to find greater freedom by exploring the life journey they have been on and what this has meant to them. It's not for me to tell the client what their goals are but for me to provide them with a therapeutic space so they can find out for themselves.
![Photo of Stacey-Jo Speirits - SJ Speirits CBT therapist , MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cfa2143-7063-4f30-af57-5af70a978bac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm SJ a fully trained and insured Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients and therapists work together. My approach is rooted in CBT, a proven method for addressing a wide range of life's challenges. I strive to create a safe and inspiring space where you can develop the skills and strategies to work on whatever you may be struggling with. I am committed to making you feel at ease and helping you reach your goals. I can help you with Anxiety - Worry - Fears & Phobias - ADHD - Addictions - Low Self Esteem - Loss- Low Mood - Depression - OCD - Frustration - Anger
Hi, I'm SJ a fully trained and insured Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients and therapists work together. My approach is rooted in CBT, a proven method for addressing a wide range of life's challenges. I strive to create a safe and inspiring space where you can develop the skills and strategies to work on whatever you may be struggling with. I am committed to making you feel at ease and helping you reach your goals. I can help you with Anxiety - Worry - Fears & Phobias - ADHD - Addictions - Low Self Esteem - Loss- Low Mood - Depression - OCD - Frustration - Anger
![Photo of Saad Malik, MRes, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d84676d-ad36-4e93-946d-9460409d637e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychodynamic counsellor based in Glasgow. I offer both in-person and online therapy. I can support you with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse and LGBTQI+ issues. Working with me will allow you to understand the impact of the past on your current situation and find creative ways for moving forward.
I am a psychodynamic counsellor based in Glasgow. I offer both in-person and online therapy. I can support you with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse and LGBTQI+ issues. Working with me will allow you to understand the impact of the past on your current situation and find creative ways for moving forward.
![Photo of Satinder Panesar, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f05a3e2-480e-4236-a5e0-679e7db44df3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Satinder Panesar
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G3 (Online Only)
If you are reading this you will be searching for someone that is able to support you at a time you need it most. . My suggestion is to read the statements and contact the individual that can support you directly with the issue you would like to work with. I am a registered accredited member of BACP & NCPS. I have over 25+ years of working in Third Sector, NHS, Education & Private Sector. I work as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor & Coach - I work from a Integrative perspective - working with Person Centred, CBT or Attachment modalities enables me to work uniquely with the modality that suits you.
If you are reading this you will be searching for someone that is able to support you at a time you need it most. . My suggestion is to read the statements and contact the individual that can support you directly with the issue you would like to work with. I am a registered accredited member of BACP & NCPS. I have over 25+ years of working in Third Sector, NHS, Education & Private Sector. I work as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor & Coach - I work from a Integrative perspective - working with Person Centred, CBT or Attachment modalities enables me to work uniquely with the modality that suits you.
![Photo of Emma Sarah Field - ADHD Scotland, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f119f338-e7c6-4a6e-a7ae-0cd2e95da5e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are Scotland's first neurodivergent clinic and not only offer assessment for ADHD and ASD but also offer support through ADHD coaching services, occupational therapy services (including sensory integration) and affiliated neurodivergent counsellors and therapists. We offer a professional service which is tailored to your needs.
We are Scotland's first neurodivergent clinic and not only offer assessment for ADHD and ASD but also offer support through ADHD coaching services, occupational therapy services (including sensory integration) and affiliated neurodivergent counsellors and therapists. We offer a professional service which is tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Fiona Perkins, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ca276b8-c0f5-446c-ab6f-4d26613421cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fiona Perkins
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G33
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel right now that you're struggling with your problems or just feeling stuck with your direction in life? Be rest assured that my approach comes from a place of compassion, understanding and support which helps to provide a good start to help implement change and enhance personal growth. I'm sure you will find our sessions friendly and authentic to find the best solution to help move you forward in life. Or perhaps you're just needing a safe space to offload right now and seeking a different perspective with no solutions just yet but with someone impartial just to gain a clearer view in life.
Do you feel right now that you're struggling with your problems or just feeling stuck with your direction in life? Be rest assured that my approach comes from a place of compassion, understanding and support which helps to provide a good start to help implement change and enhance personal growth. I'm sure you will find our sessions friendly and authentic to find the best solution to help move you forward in life. Or perhaps you're just needing a safe space to offload right now and seeking a different perspective with no solutions just yet but with someone impartial just to gain a clearer view in life.
![Photo of Nicola Toye - Nicola Toye Relationship Therapy , MSc, COSRT General, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0c6c951-ad73-45f7-bf1c-b9544672e2c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel you would like your relationship to be in a better place? Perhaps you're going through a life transition, such as becoming parents, or you're raising a family and you would love to find that spark between you as a couple again. Have you noticed a distance between you, and that you miss the closeness and intimacy you once shared? Maybe your relationship has reached a crisis point such as an affair and you're looking to help your relationship heal. Or maybe communication has become an issue, leaving you feeling that your true needs are not being met and you would like to understand each other better.
Do you feel you would like your relationship to be in a better place? Perhaps you're going through a life transition, such as becoming parents, or you're raising a family and you would love to find that spark between you as a couple again. Have you noticed a distance between you, and that you miss the closeness and intimacy you once shared? Maybe your relationship has reached a crisis point such as an affair and you're looking to help your relationship heal. Or maybe communication has become an issue, leaving you feeling that your true needs are not being met and you would like to understand each other better.
![Photo of Lynne McKay - Mbacp, BACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1aa32892-7d28-4d14-bfe1-b659e7914817/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Lynne, I am an experienced Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with a specialism in suicidal ideation and bereavement of suicide. I work with young adults from the age of 16 and adults over the age of 18. I am based in Glasgow and offer therapy sessions face to face and online. Other disorders and issues I can support you with are depression, trauma, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, self harm, and self-esteem to name just a few.
I'm Lynne, I am an experienced Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with a specialism in suicidal ideation and bereavement of suicide. I work with young adults from the age of 16 and adults over the age of 18. I am based in Glasgow and offer therapy sessions face to face and online. Other disorders and issues I can support you with are depression, trauma, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, self harm, and self-esteem to name just a few.
15 Second Videos
Andrew Power Whitelaw (Unconditional Counselling)
Catriona Harper Accredited Cbt Counsellor Psychotherapist
Maria Georgiou Shippi
Zara Mahon
Melissa D'Angelo
Prospective Counselling William Shreenan
Queen Rosa Osarumwense
Sarah Grant
Jane Hamilton
Lorenzo Mele
Yue Wu
KWStherapy
David Bloomfield
Vicki Allen
Kirsty Horne
Nicola Flanagan
Aga Teodorowska
Louise Legg
Susan Campbell
Your Life Change
Debbie Guild
Geraldine Mynors
Connection Psychotherapy
Naomi Aoife Bowers
Debbie Bolton
Dan Plant
Christine Douglas
Psyche Therapy Centre
Graham Hill
Helen Watkins
Yew Tree Counselling
Rebecca Muller
Sandra Small
Mike Delaney
Cameron Cunningham
Sharon Joyce
Dr Victoria Ross
Taylor Broughton
Linzi Henry-Watson
Jen Tays
Claire Murdoch
Rosanna Veitch
Jenny Kerr
Matthew Costello
Emily Arlidge (Stress Counsellor)
Celia Clark
Abi Lloyd-Milner
Valéry Hervé Renault
Jill Malcolm
Federico Ferrarese - CPsychol and CBT Therapist
![Photo of Samantha Wallace](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f3563ae-2e27-4d26-a3ea-e2e8a055a614/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer space for you to feel heard, understood and empowered without any judgement. Within our therapy, I can support you to understand what you are feeling and why. I understand you might feel stuck, ashamed, scared or uncertain - our sessions can give you space to share how you are truly feeling and talk through what’s on your mind. Additionally, our space can help you to build self-understanding, improve your self-confidence, trust yourself more and feel more peace. Our sessions will go at a pace that feels right for you and I can support you to identify and meet your own goals.
I offer space for you to feel heard, understood and empowered without any judgement. Within our therapy, I can support you to understand what you are feeling and why. I understand you might feel stuck, ashamed, scared or uncertain - our sessions can give you space to share how you are truly feeling and talk through what’s on your mind. Additionally, our space can help you to build self-understanding, improve your self-confidence, trust yourself more and feel more peace. Our sessions will go at a pace that feels right for you and I can support you to identify and meet your own goals.
![Photo of Nick Kartsanis, MCOSCA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66eba959-ff67-4687-acc3-d42cf64b1979/1/320x400.jpeg)
Being human is hard, but you don't have to go it alone. I can help you gain clarity about your needs and values. To slow down and pay more attention to your thoughts and emotional or behavioural patterns, which may be happening automatically or out of habit. To understand what their intentions are or what they’re trying to tell you about your life. To understand how you relate and talk to yourself, and to develop a more compassionate voice towards your self. This understanding will then be our guide for helping you to set goals and priorities for your therapy or your life, and for supporting you to work towards them.
Being human is hard, but you don't have to go it alone. I can help you gain clarity about your needs and values. To slow down and pay more attention to your thoughts and emotional or behavioural patterns, which may be happening automatically or out of habit. To understand what their intentions are or what they’re trying to tell you about your life. To understand how you relate and talk to yourself, and to develop a more compassionate voice towards your self. This understanding will then be our guide for helping you to set goals and priorities for your therapy or your life, and for supporting you to work towards them.
![Photo of Eilidh Macleod, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fd545d6-9436-438f-813c-213fd463d279/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a wide range of adults from various backgrounds and experiences related to; abuse, alcohol use, anger, anxiety, bereavement, depression, family issues, gender, grief and loss, ill health, relationship issues, substance use, trauma, victim support.
I work with a wide range of adults from various backgrounds and experiences related to; abuse, alcohol use, anger, anxiety, bereavement, depression, family issues, gender, grief and loss, ill health, relationship issues, substance use, trauma, victim support.
![Photo of Leeanne McKenna, MCOSCA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa4bdc1c-7324-491e-b2f8-9044dd2589ee/4/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that each person is unique and the expert of their own lived experience. As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
I believe that each person is unique and the expert of their own lived experience. As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
![Photo of James Patrick Ingram - Thrive Psychotherapy Ltd, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b036ff6-4adb-4f88-9ad2-3241d3ababc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
You may be struggling with direction in life/career, distressing thoughts, self-defeating behaviours or intense emotions which seem uncontrollable despite you looking for change. Perhaps you don't think you are able to change and are unsure if you really can. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based modality regarded as the gold standard to alleviate psychological distress and initiate positive behavioural changes. You are looking for change and are taking the initial steps to do so - well done! I have experience working with sports and exercise to enhance performance and also to enhance your life in all areas.
You may be struggling with direction in life/career, distressing thoughts, self-defeating behaviours or intense emotions which seem uncontrollable despite you looking for change. Perhaps you don't think you are able to change and are unsure if you really can. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based modality regarded as the gold standard to alleviate psychological distress and initiate positive behavioural changes. You are looking for change and are taking the initial steps to do so - well done! I have experience working with sports and exercise to enhance performance and also to enhance your life in all areas.
![Photo of Linda Smith, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49c1e5f8-42e0-42ae-b4e1-e8d8de48bb9e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes we experience changes or traumas that leave us struggling with the pressures of life, relationships, work, or studies. This can affect our self-esteem, our sense of identity, and our ability to cope. This can become overwhelming and may lead us to unhelpful or harmful thoughts and behaviours. With help, we can overcome our difficulties and learn to manage our emotions more effectively. With compassion, empathy, respect, and a safe space, we feel heard, considered, and valued. By understanding our thoughts and behaviours we can feel empowered to make positive changes that can lead us to fuller and more enjoyable lives.
Sometimes we experience changes or traumas that leave us struggling with the pressures of life, relationships, work, or studies. This can affect our self-esteem, our sense of identity, and our ability to cope. This can become overwhelming and may lead us to unhelpful or harmful thoughts and behaviours. With help, we can overcome our difficulties and learn to manage our emotions more effectively. With compassion, empathy, respect, and a safe space, we feel heard, considered, and valued. By understanding our thoughts and behaviours we can feel empowered to make positive changes that can lead us to fuller and more enjoyable lives.
![Photo of Andrew Power Whitelaw (Unconditional Counselling), MSc, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58c35a5d-34de-46b9-a5e5-f7722993a98c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Power Whitelaw (Unconditional Counselling)
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G44
I want to offer you some encouragement as you scroll through this site looking for a counsellor - it is not easy to do when you're experiencing all sorts of complicated thoughts and emotions. You're here though. You're already doing something to help yourself, and my hope is that you'll find the support you need either with myself or another counsellor. I am qualified and experienced in holding and responding to complex experiences and emotions. However, equally important to the training and experience of a counsellor is how you feel in their presence.
I want to offer you some encouragement as you scroll through this site looking for a counsellor - it is not easy to do when you're experiencing all sorts of complicated thoughts and emotions. You're here though. You're already doing something to help yourself, and my hope is that you'll find the support you need either with myself or another counsellor. I am qualified and experienced in holding and responding to complex experiences and emotions. However, equally important to the training and experience of a counsellor is how you feel in their presence.
![Photo of Keeley Craw, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb46b71a-9a14-4feb-9087-0ce2a6581b77/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Keeley and I’m here to support you and your child. Let me help you bring some harmony back to your family. Being a parent or a carer presents a whole range of challenges, and there are times when you may feel that you need the support of a professional to help your child to make sense of a difficult or complex experience, or to understand why they are behaving in a particular way. Everyone’s needs will be different, but whatever needs to be done to support you and your child you will always be at the heart of my work. The chance to be heard and to see concerns in a new light can make all the difference.
Welcome! My name is Keeley and I’m here to support you and your child. Let me help you bring some harmony back to your family. Being a parent or a carer presents a whole range of challenges, and there are times when you may feel that you need the support of a professional to help your child to make sense of a difficult or complex experience, or to understand why they are behaving in a particular way. Everyone’s needs will be different, but whatever needs to be done to support you and your child you will always be at the heart of my work. The chance to be heard and to see concerns in a new light can make all the difference.
![Photo of Dr Ross Deuchar - Ross Deuchar Coaching, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69239a6e-9c34-49d7-8960-ab0f8bed7334/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Professional Hypnotherapist, Life Coach, Mindfulness & Breathing Coach, NLP Practitioner and Personal Trainer I very much believe in a holistic approach - supporting clients to improve their overall mental, physical and cognitive wellbeing. In my work as a coach and therapist, I support clients who have been struggling with their physical and mental health - tapping into their subconscious mind to help them overcome the fears, habits, addictions or patterns of behaviour that have been holding them back, enabling them to become the best version of themselves. Within this process, hypnotherapy is a central transformative tool.
As a Professional Hypnotherapist, Life Coach, Mindfulness & Breathing Coach, NLP Practitioner and Personal Trainer I very much believe in a holistic approach - supporting clients to improve their overall mental, physical and cognitive wellbeing. In my work as a coach and therapist, I support clients who have been struggling with their physical and mental health - tapping into their subconscious mind to help them overcome the fears, habits, addictions or patterns of behaviour that have been holding them back, enabling them to become the best version of themselves. Within this process, hypnotherapy is a central transformative tool.
See more therapy options for Greater Glasgow
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Greater Glasgow
500+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in Greater Glasgow who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Self Esteem |
85% | Depression |
82% | Stress |
74% | Relationship Issues |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
62% | Aviva |
59% | AXA PPP |
52% | Vitality |
How Counsellors in Greater Glasgow see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Greater Glasgow?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.