Counselling in BS1
![Photo of Pablo Reina Martinez, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3aaa8fb-10f2-4fda-b0b9-5d5bc6086a0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
My aim is to help you explore any issues that interfere with your mental and emotional wellbeing. Together we will find the resources that enable you to live better. I am passionate in supporting people cope, heal and thrive. I provide an environment that fosters your self-reflection and growth. Fostering the alignment with your values. Counselling gives us that time and space we need to make sense of our experiences and to explore our identity. This clarifies our stressors and updates our strategies and resources.
My aim is to help you explore any issues that interfere with your mental and emotional wellbeing. Together we will find the resources that enable you to live better. I am passionate in supporting people cope, heal and thrive. I provide an environment that fosters your self-reflection and growth. Fostering the alignment with your values. Counselling gives us that time and space we need to make sense of our experiences and to explore our identity. This clarifies our stressors and updates our strategies and resources.
![Photo of Daniel Fryer, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ee3ebb3-0665-4624-8ed2-652442648e76/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there, I'm a mental health and wellbeing consultant and have been in practicefor nearly 20 years now. I've worked in a variety of settings, including private practice (in both London and Bristol), the NHS, occupational health, private healthcare and The Priory Hospital. I also develop workshops, webinars and live presentations and am the author of two pop psych self-help titles. I bring wit, wisdom and experience into the room. If you need help with your anxiety and stress, including work stress, life stress and burnout, if you want help with your confidence, or in overcoming a life challenge, I can help
Hello there, I'm a mental health and wellbeing consultant and have been in practicefor nearly 20 years now. I've worked in a variety of settings, including private practice (in both London and Bristol), the NHS, occupational health, private healthcare and The Priory Hospital. I also develop workshops, webinars and live presentations and am the author of two pop psych self-help titles. I bring wit, wisdom and experience into the room. If you need help with your anxiety and stress, including work stress, life stress and burnout, if you want help with your confidence, or in overcoming a life challenge, I can help
![Photo of Dr Suzy Anderson, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4f9283d-06d6-46d2-a8e3-4f4727dbf601/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Suzy Anderson
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
There's always more to a problem than its headline, and that the foundations of meaningful change are in careful, critical understanding. I work with my clients to formulate their problems in all their complexity, and to develop focussed strategies for intervention. I often work with people struggling with low mood, anxiety, esteem issues, obsessive thoughts, relationship issues, problematic behaviours (such as problematic skin picking), traumatic experiences and unhelpful coping. I work responsively, realistically and pragmatically, according to my clients' priorities.
There's always more to a problem than its headline, and that the foundations of meaningful change are in careful, critical understanding. I work with my clients to formulate their problems in all their complexity, and to develop focussed strategies for intervention. I often work with people struggling with low mood, anxiety, esteem issues, obsessive thoughts, relationship issues, problematic behaviours (such as problematic skin picking), traumatic experiences and unhelpful coping. I work responsively, realistically and pragmatically, according to my clients' priorities.
![Photo of Samantha Lloyd, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a2e914d-0513-49b8-9082-3101efd817db/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience of working with clients experiencing a range of emotional difficulties including anxiety, low mood, PTSD, stress and burnout, low self-esteem and shame. I am experienced in working with trauma, adjustment to major life events, loss and bereavement. I also have a special interest in clinical health psychology and in supporting individuals who are experiencing health related emotional difficulties, such as adjusting to living with a diagnosis or physical symptoms, anxiety, low mood or treatment related trauma. I draw flexibly upon a range of evidence based approaches tailored to the individual and their needs.
I have experience of working with clients experiencing a range of emotional difficulties including anxiety, low mood, PTSD, stress and burnout, low self-esteem and shame. I am experienced in working with trauma, adjustment to major life events, loss and bereavement. I also have a special interest in clinical health psychology and in supporting individuals who are experiencing health related emotional difficulties, such as adjusting to living with a diagnosis or physical symptoms, anxiety, low mood or treatment related trauma. I draw flexibly upon a range of evidence based approaches tailored to the individual and their needs.
![Photo of Duncan E. Stafford, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1c757f-c1a5-4bec-95ba-b94dd38195be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. During the 23 years I've been in therapy practice I've come think of my way of working with individuals or couples as creating a unique space that is facilitating for recovery or growth. I draw on a wide range of techniques and approaches to fulfil this way of working (including the use of CBT tools). Psychotherapy and counselling with me is a confidential and non-judgemental process. I won’t tell you what to do but we will talk about whatever you need to talk about and we will work on ways of developing a useful route through your issues, however difficult. (My practice is neurodiverse informed and kink friendly).
Welcome. During the 23 years I've been in therapy practice I've come think of my way of working with individuals or couples as creating a unique space that is facilitating for recovery or growth. I draw on a wide range of techniques and approaches to fulfil this way of working (including the use of CBT tools). Psychotherapy and counselling with me is a confidential and non-judgemental process. I won’t tell you what to do but we will talk about whatever you need to talk about and we will work on ways of developing a useful route through your issues, however difficult. (My practice is neurodiverse informed and kink friendly).
![Photo of Martin Robert Conway - Martin Conway Counselling, MSc, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bed2bfa0-5956-4592-b4ef-3cc194fdd61f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer counselling in Bristol and online for individuals and couples experiencing a range of issues. I completed my Level 6 Diploma with merit and MSc in Psychology with commendation. I have worked in placements at an addiction clinic and the Wellbeing Service at the University of West of England and I have 1500+ hours of therapy experience. My experience includes (but is not limited to) stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, long-term illness and self-esteem.
I offer counselling in Bristol and online for individuals and couples experiencing a range of issues. I completed my Level 6 Diploma with merit and MSc in Psychology with commendation. I have worked in placements at an addiction clinic and the Wellbeing Service at the University of West of England and I have 1500+ hours of therapy experience. My experience includes (but is not limited to) stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, long-term illness and self-esteem.
![Photo of Alex Moate, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef54dd6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counselling can provide you with much needed clarity when life seems full up, with no room left to think. As a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist I provide a non-judgemental, safe and confidential space to explore issues that you are facing, to look more closely at the impact that these are having in your life and to begin to gain new perspectives. As an integrative practitioner I am able to work flexibly with you, with my work being informed by different approaches including Gestalt, Person-centred, Psychodynamic and CBT. This means that I am able to work in a way that will best suit your individual needs.
Counselling can provide you with much needed clarity when life seems full up, with no room left to think. As a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist I provide a non-judgemental, safe and confidential space to explore issues that you are facing, to look more closely at the impact that these are having in your life and to begin to gain new perspectives. As an integrative practitioner I am able to work flexibly with you, with my work being informed by different approaches including Gestalt, Person-centred, Psychodynamic and CBT. This means that I am able to work in a way that will best suit your individual needs.
![Photo of Hannah Raine-Smith, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f8fb5f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an integrative therapist specialising in using eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to treat a wide range of psychological issues. I am highly trained in psychotherapy, neuroscience and trauma and believe that our current issues can often be traced back to early adverse experiences in childhood. Compared to standard talking therapy EMDR generally takes a shorter amount of time to get to the root cause of the issue. Rather than just dealing with symptom management (like CBT), EMDR therapy works directly with the cause of your distress.
I am an integrative therapist specialising in using eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to treat a wide range of psychological issues. I am highly trained in psychotherapy, neuroscience and trauma and believe that our current issues can often be traced back to early adverse experiences in childhood. Compared to standard talking therapy EMDR generally takes a shorter amount of time to get to the root cause of the issue. Rather than just dealing with symptom management (like CBT), EMDR therapy works directly with the cause of your distress.
![Photo of Cory Stewart, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bcca24d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer one-to-one counselling for clients who are going through difficult circumstances & feel ready to make a change in their life. I'll work with you to develop understanding of your behaviours, which I believe is important if we want to make progress. I prefer not to focus my work on specialisms, though I have a particular interest in clients struggling with their identity, relationships and anxiety.
I offer one-to-one counselling for clients who are going through difficult circumstances & feel ready to make a change in their life. I'll work with you to develop understanding of your behaviours, which I believe is important if we want to make progress. I prefer not to focus my work on specialisms, though I have a particular interest in clients struggling with their identity, relationships and anxiety.
![Photo of Luke Fielder, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbee587f-e903-4507-8373-abb9b83d4b55/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a safe space in which you can speak and be listened to without judgement or expectation. As a psychoanalytically informed counsellor, I encourage you to speak about whatever comes to mind and to follow your thoughts wherever they lead. You may have a diagnosis or have your own terms for how you are suffering - we can start there. What we may find is that issues of identity and subjectivity follow - how you see yourself in relation to those around you now or in the past and possibly, in the future....
I offer a safe space in which you can speak and be listened to without judgement or expectation. As a psychoanalytically informed counsellor, I encourage you to speak about whatever comes to mind and to follow your thoughts wherever they lead. You may have a diagnosis or have your own terms for how you are suffering - we can start there. What we may find is that issues of identity and subjectivity follow - how you see yourself in relation to those around you now or in the past and possibly, in the future....
![Photo of Patrick Fountain, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6a0b34-2bed-4d9a-9b25-0c54f0c85dcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Repertoire Counselling. At a certain point life feels overwhelming, we struggle to carry and understand the weight of our feelings, leading us to feel lost, stuck, alone, anxious, angry and fighting through life all by ourselves. My journey to becoming a therapist emerged out of painful experiences, which I am grateful because I love helping my clients to navigate their way through all that life has to throw at them. Talking to someone outside of your situation, who is not a family member or a friend can help in gaining relief, self-understanding, self-acceptance and help to build resilience and envision a way forward.
Welcome to Repertoire Counselling. At a certain point life feels overwhelming, we struggle to carry and understand the weight of our feelings, leading us to feel lost, stuck, alone, anxious, angry and fighting through life all by ourselves. My journey to becoming a therapist emerged out of painful experiences, which I am grateful because I love helping my clients to navigate their way through all that life has to throw at them. Talking to someone outside of your situation, who is not a family member or a friend can help in gaining relief, self-understanding, self-acceptance and help to build resilience and envision a way forward.
15 Second Videos
Pablo Reina Martinez
Duncan E. Stafford
Martin Conway Counselling
Cory Stewart
Patrick Fountain
Mike Swift
Hyunho Khang
Miro Cansky
Karen Deeming
Juliana Garcia
Jimi D Katsis
Toby Gray
Avon CBT & Psychotherapy
John Andrews
Wayne Walker
Frances Read
Mel Ciavucco Counselling & Training
Julie Jenner
Stuart Hannis Hypnotherapy
RT Counselling / Next Chapter Therapies
Abbie Hendy
Maura Brivio - Therapy & Coaching
Ginny Bates
Katie Payne
Suzi Morris
Mum Therapy - Zoom counselling for mums
BS2Therapy Rooms
David Pringle
Ed Jefferson
Lauenna Luddington
Melissa Kent
Grace McIntyre
Michelle Gale
Cassie de Pourtales
Tracylena Morgan
Liz Lilley
Brian Back
Holly Marie Carroll
Eoin Earley
Monika Burzykowska
Jules Reynolds
Simone Passos
Peter Hutt
Rosalind Townsend
Kesley Cage
Kayla Dunkley
Sarah Finch
Peter Carter Sex Therapist
Gary McFarlane
Kayleigh Finbow - Psychosexual Therapist
![Photo of Maria Rachel Curry, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d5ebcdd-2d85-49ab-83a4-b4806b16ef7c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a SPECIALIST RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST - working with COUPLES, FAMILIES and INDIVIDUALS who are seeking help on working with all aspects of relationship difficulties. Are you in a cycle of arguments that you cannot escape? Or faced with issues that are making you feel anxious or depressed? If so communication is often at the heart of the problem and talking with an experienced therapist in a calm and non-judgemental environment can allow for a different way to communicate leading to a more effective way to understand and be understood.
I am a SPECIALIST RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST - working with COUPLES, FAMILIES and INDIVIDUALS who are seeking help on working with all aspects of relationship difficulties. Are you in a cycle of arguments that you cannot escape? Or faced with issues that are making you feel anxious or depressed? If so communication is often at the heart of the problem and talking with an experienced therapist in a calm and non-judgemental environment can allow for a different way to communicate leading to a more effective way to understand and be understood.
![Photo of Milla Kenny, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d289ce1a-0f18-438f-afd3-a0ef1aaae141/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, do you need space to talk? Together we can explore issues relating to bereavement, loss and grief, depression and anxiety, loneliness and isolation, low self-esteem and self-confidence, relationship issues or challenging family dynamics. I have special interest in working with bereavement, grief and loss and can help with what can be a very difficult time in your life. I gravitate towards psychodynamic approach to therapy and I will encourage you to be self-reflective, engage in self-exploration into your thoughts, feelings, emotions, experiences from early life, and the beliefs that you hold.
Hello, do you need space to talk? Together we can explore issues relating to bereavement, loss and grief, depression and anxiety, loneliness and isolation, low self-esteem and self-confidence, relationship issues or challenging family dynamics. I have special interest in working with bereavement, grief and loss and can help with what can be a very difficult time in your life. I gravitate towards psychodynamic approach to therapy and I will encourage you to be self-reflective, engage in self-exploration into your thoughts, feelings, emotions, experiences from early life, and the beliefs that you hold.
![Photo of Dr Roberta Principi, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cc673f6-53dc-4669-b86b-d2d00f7b2a5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Roberta Principi
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
You might seek help for a variety of reasons, such as anxiety, low mood, bereavement, eating and body weight problems, relational issues, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life change situations (the list is not exhaustive). Sometimes it could be difficult to identify a specific reason for seeking support. It might be a struggle to find a sense of meaning or a way through emotional pain. Whatever the reason you are looking for emotional support, I can offer my skills and experience in a safe a confidential non-judgemental space where you can feel free to express your thoughts, and feelings.
You might seek help for a variety of reasons, such as anxiety, low mood, bereavement, eating and body weight problems, relational issues, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life change situations (the list is not exhaustive). Sometimes it could be difficult to identify a specific reason for seeking support. It might be a struggle to find a sense of meaning or a way through emotional pain. Whatever the reason you are looking for emotional support, I can offer my skills and experience in a safe a confidential non-judgemental space where you can feel free to express your thoughts, and feelings.
![Photo of Anna Bulgakova, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53449d70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for change? Do you want to move beyond the pain of your current situation or past traumas? Are you experiencing relationship difficulties and don't know how to go beyond the current situation? Whatever the issues you are facing, I will work with you to help you move towards the place you (both) want to be. I have extensive knowledge of working with clients with a range of mental health difficulties, including people in emotional crisis. I believe that every person has the potential for recovery and growth, with as an individual or within relationship with another person. Transformation is always possible.
Are you looking for change? Do you want to move beyond the pain of your current situation or past traumas? Are you experiencing relationship difficulties and don't know how to go beyond the current situation? Whatever the issues you are facing, I will work with you to help you move towards the place you (both) want to be. I have extensive knowledge of working with clients with a range of mental health difficulties, including people in emotional crisis. I believe that every person has the potential for recovery and growth, with as an individual or within relationship with another person. Transformation is always possible.
![Photo of Mike Swift, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32449137-fd47-42cb-a7e3-da30d76fd1ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is your life is feeling hard or painful in some way right now? Something needs to change but it feels like a mountain to climb? Feeling stuck or confused? If you choose to work with me, my promise to you is that I will offer curiosity, respect, care and compassion. Perhaps, together, we can develop new, useful perspectives. I believe that though counselling, it's always possible to find new ways to move forwards in positive directions. I look forward to hearing from you.
Is your life is feeling hard or painful in some way right now? Something needs to change but it feels like a mountain to climb? Feeling stuck or confused? If you choose to work with me, my promise to you is that I will offer curiosity, respect, care and compassion. Perhaps, together, we can develop new, useful perspectives. I believe that though counselling, it's always possible to find new ways to move forwards in positive directions. I look forward to hearing from you.
![Photo of Chloe Powell, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77608227-6674-4ba6-a12a-3e524ff67091/1/320x400.jpeg)
Searching for the right counsellor can feel daunting. How do you know which one to choose, and who you will be comfortable with? It's a big decision. Let me tell you a little about me and the way I work. I am a dedicated and compassionate psychodynamic counsellor, a member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) and the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I believe that our past experiences shape who we are today and that by uncovering and understanding unconscious behaviours and choices, we can gain insight and self-awareness, and light the way for future growth.
Searching for the right counsellor can feel daunting. How do you know which one to choose, and who you will be comfortable with? It's a big decision. Let me tell you a little about me and the way I work. I am a dedicated and compassionate psychodynamic counsellor, a member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) and the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I believe that our past experiences shape who we are today and that by uncovering and understanding unconscious behaviours and choices, we can gain insight and self-awareness, and light the way for future growth.
![Photo of Asa Sanderson Msc Ma Mbacp, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab71ffe1-ad8d-407f-8595-4c85daff2a16/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise in mental health challenges and men's related issues such as barriers to intimacy, ED, low sex drive, pornography addiction, and relationship or social challenges. In psychotherapy sessions I provide a confidential setting that encourages you to reflect on your journey. We will explore the feelings, emotions and impact significant events have had on the way you experience day-to-day life. We will work through your thought process moving towards the version of you that you've always wanted to be. Who is that person? Are they confident in themselves? And, do they allow themselves to smile, laugh and be happy?
I specialise in mental health challenges and men's related issues such as barriers to intimacy, ED, low sex drive, pornography addiction, and relationship or social challenges. In psychotherapy sessions I provide a confidential setting that encourages you to reflect on your journey. We will explore the feelings, emotions and impact significant events have had on the way you experience day-to-day life. We will work through your thought process moving towards the version of you that you've always wanted to be. Who is that person? Are they confident in themselves? And, do they allow themselves to smile, laugh and be happy?
![Photo of Nadinne Dyen, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f98088-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Perhaps you're feeling trapped or blocked by the past, confused knowing there must be more to life but feeling stuck in survival. Maybe you feel in the depths of despair with feelings of stress, depression and anxiety or recently grieving from a bereavement, a loss of some kind or simply can’t make sense of a general flatness and loss of meaning. You know changes need to be made and seeking a safe supportive space to work through your process to find greater balance and meaning to life, allowing you to really live your life fully.
Perhaps you're feeling trapped or blocked by the past, confused knowing there must be more to life but feeling stuck in survival. Maybe you feel in the depths of despair with feelings of stress, depression and anxiety or recently grieving from a bereavement, a loss of some kind or simply can’t make sense of a general flatness and loss of meaning. You know changes need to be made and seeking a safe supportive space to work through your process to find greater balance and meaning to life, allowing you to really live your life fully.
![Photo of Jonathan Wilkes, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc9973b8-1e09-4966-aef5-101e75c2735f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a qualified Psychosynthesis counsellor. Psychosynthesis is a broad and inclusive system which has many different techniques and approaches that can be tailored to you and your needs, given that you are unique! I emphasize warmth, kindness, sensitivity and empathy in my approach. I work with people who are experiencing; depression, anxiety, anger and rage, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, feelings of despair and childhood abuse and trauma. I work with people to achieve real, concrete, lasting change in their lives - and have received plenty of positive feedback confirming this!
I’m a qualified Psychosynthesis counsellor. Psychosynthesis is a broad and inclusive system which has many different techniques and approaches that can be tailored to you and your needs, given that you are unique! I emphasize warmth, kindness, sensitivity and empathy in my approach. I work with people who are experiencing; depression, anxiety, anger and rage, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, feelings of despair and childhood abuse and trauma. I work with people to achieve real, concrete, lasting change in their lives - and have received plenty of positive feedback confirming this!
See more therapy options for BS1
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in BS1
300+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in BS1 who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
88% | Self Esteem |
86% | Depression |
85% | Stress |
78% | Relationship Issues |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | AXA PPP |
62% | Aviva |
48% | Vitality |
How Counsellors in BS1 see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in BS1?
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.