Counselling in Fishponds, Bristol
![Photo of Nikki Holmes, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f1962df-f417-4b94-8d2b-ff13123bb886/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can bring us a variety of 'ups and downs.' Sometimes we feel able to cope with these and sometimes we need more support to see us through. You might be feeling stressed, anxious, lost or confused. It can be difficult to reach out and ask for help and you might feel worried about where or how to start. I can offer you a calm and non-judgemental space to explore whatever has brought you to Psychotherapy. I will follow your lead and work gently to support you in understanding yourself more fully, bringing self compassion to areas of difficulty and in moving towards greater freedom from whatever is troubling you.
Life can bring us a variety of 'ups and downs.' Sometimes we feel able to cope with these and sometimes we need more support to see us through. You might be feeling stressed, anxious, lost or confused. It can be difficult to reach out and ask for help and you might feel worried about where or how to start. I can offer you a calm and non-judgemental space to explore whatever has brought you to Psychotherapy. I will follow your lead and work gently to support you in understanding yourself more fully, bringing self compassion to areas of difficulty and in moving towards greater freedom from whatever is troubling you.
![Photo of Christopher James Westray - Westray Psychotherapy (EMDR, LifeSpan Integration), MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f76e7d07-fb0c-4ecc-97ad-c3c10b3326f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Westray Psychotherapy (EMDR, LifeSpan Integration)
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishponds, Bristol BS16 (Online Only)
Anxiety? Stress? Low mood? Hi, I’m Chris, I am an experienced TRAUMA specialist and can help you to a consistent, calm and confident state of being. Life can be hard and while we hope that we will be able to cope if we’re feeling low, anxious or distressed; sometimes coping just isn’t enough. Psychotherapy can help you find structure and stability when things feel chaotic. It can help when it feels like no one around you understands what it’s like to be you and when the way you feel makes no sense. With empathy and gentle curiosity, I use a combination of verbal and non-verbal, techniques to help you into your truest, clearest self.
Anxiety? Stress? Low mood? Hi, I’m Chris, I am an experienced TRAUMA specialist and can help you to a consistent, calm and confident state of being. Life can be hard and while we hope that we will be able to cope if we’re feeling low, anxious or distressed; sometimes coping just isn’t enough. Psychotherapy can help you find structure and stability when things feel chaotic. It can help when it feels like no one around you understands what it’s like to be you and when the way you feel makes no sense. With empathy and gentle curiosity, I use a combination of verbal and non-verbal, techniques to help you into your truest, clearest self.
![Photo of Diane Susan Hall - Di Hall, DCounsPsych, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0589a22d-2ef0-475c-8eaf-c03cb6721df1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you going through a challenging period that is affecting daily life? Are you struggling with issues of anxiety, anxiety disorders, depression, anger separation, loss, grief, trauma, low self esteem/confidence? I can work with you to discover new ways of responding to these different blocks and dilemmas in life. Therapy being offered is person to person & online.
Are you going through a challenging period that is affecting daily life? Are you struggling with issues of anxiety, anxiety disorders, depression, anger separation, loss, grief, trauma, low self esteem/confidence? I can work with you to discover new ways of responding to these different blocks and dilemmas in life. Therapy being offered is person to person & online.
![Photo of Dr Jonathan Kenyon, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/152db33e-b6f1-47af-a815-6824e73bf485/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Jonathan Kenyon
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Fishponds, Bristol BS16
You may have feelings of dissatisfaction and a sense that you are not getting all that you want from life. You may be finding that every day is a struggle with strong or overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, stress or anger. I believe we all strive to feel happier and more fulfilled than we currently are. We want to feel a connection with other people and have a sense that we are leading meaningful, enjoyable lives - even when we feel at a loss as to how to achieve this. I help people overcome their difficulties to become happier, more psychologically healthy and experience an improved quality of life.
You may have feelings of dissatisfaction and a sense that you are not getting all that you want from life. You may be finding that every day is a struggle with strong or overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, stress or anger. I believe we all strive to feel happier and more fulfilled than we currently are. We want to feel a connection with other people and have a sense that we are leading meaningful, enjoyable lives - even when we feel at a loss as to how to achieve this. I help people overcome their difficulties to become happier, more psychologically healthy and experience an improved quality of life.
![Photo of Deb Brown, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77ab404c-ba11-4a69-8726-752b9bb61b50/2/320x400.jpeg)
My life experiences and learning journey have influenced and shaped my passion for counselling. I feel privileged having the opportunity to walk alongside those who seek support. Indeed we are all different and each of our life stories are unique. Working with the pluralistic approach offers flexibility across every session but our work together will always be defined by you! My role is not to 'fix' you, my role is to listen to you, to learn about you and to understand you. I firmly believe the answers we may seek are held within us and the counselling journey provides a pathway leading to transformation and positive change.
My life experiences and learning journey have influenced and shaped my passion for counselling. I feel privileged having the opportunity to walk alongside those who seek support. Indeed we are all different and each of our life stories are unique. Working with the pluralistic approach offers flexibility across every session but our work together will always be defined by you! My role is not to 'fix' you, my role is to listen to you, to learn about you and to understand you. I firmly believe the answers we may seek are held within us and the counselling journey provides a pathway leading to transformation and positive change.
![Photo of James Hicks - NOSA National Outreach Service for Anxiety, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc90046e-5747-4511-8731-2000cfbdb68f/3/320x400.jpeg)
NOSA National Outreach Service for Anxiety
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Fishponds, Bristol BS16
NOSA is a national service and we are happy to asses any problem that is related to anxiety, anywhere in the country. Some of the problems we most commonly help people with include obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, panic, agoraphobia, health anxiety, specific phobias (e.g. fear of flying), emetophobia (fear of vomiting), PTSD/Trauma and social anxiety.
NOSA is a national service and we are happy to asses any problem that is related to anxiety, anywhere in the country. Some of the problems we most commonly help people with include obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, panic, agoraphobia, health anxiety, specific phobias (e.g. fear of flying), emetophobia (fear of vomiting), PTSD/Trauma and social anxiety.
Iman Idjer
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fishponds, Bristol BS16
In life’s ever-changing phases, therapy can provide a sanctuary to navigate and understand the impact of your experiences, emotions, and thoughts. Seeking a therapist is often the first step towards finding the support that you need. I strive to create a warm and compassionate space for us to explore how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, bereavement, abuse, trauma, and other life challenges, including feelings of shame or self-blame.
In life’s ever-changing phases, therapy can provide a sanctuary to navigate and understand the impact of your experiences, emotions, and thoughts. Seeking a therapist is often the first step towards finding the support that you need. I strive to create a warm and compassionate space for us to explore how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, bereavement, abuse, trauma, and other life challenges, including feelings of shame or self-blame.
![Photo of Sally Ellis, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33974dde-2897-4125-a30f-0ed1a97eb794/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodiversity, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centered core .
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodiversity, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centered core .
![Photo of Fiona Clare Hayden, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b095114e-ba53-4045-b37f-c9ddc5ecd204/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a counsellor for nearly ten years and within that time I have an extensive knowledge of most difficulties. I initially trained on placement for 2 years alongside my diploma within the Swan Project they specialise in Addiction and Trauma. I have successfully worked with many clients but not limited to Addiction, Trauma, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA, Childhood sex abuse, Childhood neglect, Domestic violence, Rape, PTSD and Eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with neurodiversity including teenagers as I have my own personal journey and I feel this helps add an extra layer of empathy and understanding.
I have been a counsellor for nearly ten years and within that time I have an extensive knowledge of most difficulties. I initially trained on placement for 2 years alongside my diploma within the Swan Project they specialise in Addiction and Trauma. I have successfully worked with many clients but not limited to Addiction, Trauma, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA, Childhood sex abuse, Childhood neglect, Domestic violence, Rape, PTSD and Eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with neurodiversity including teenagers as I have my own personal journey and I feel this helps add an extra layer of empathy and understanding.
![Photo of Katie Green, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85bd458b-dcb2-41f4-a331-ffa71a61ffbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, lost, lonely, or disconnected from others? Have you lost a loved one and are feeling overwhelmed with grief? Maybe you’re experiencing unhelpful thoughts around “not being good enough” or “feeling unable to cope”? Or are using work, shopping, exercise, food, drugs and/or alcohol as a way of coping? If any of these resonate with you, you are not alone. I can offer you a warm, empathic, safe space where you can feel comfortable to talk to me about anything, whether it is your current situation that is troubling you or something that happened to you in your past.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, lost, lonely, or disconnected from others? Have you lost a loved one and are feeling overwhelmed with grief? Maybe you’re experiencing unhelpful thoughts around “not being good enough” or “feeling unable to cope”? Or are using work, shopping, exercise, food, drugs and/or alcohol as a way of coping? If any of these resonate with you, you are not alone. I can offer you a warm, empathic, safe space where you can feel comfortable to talk to me about anything, whether it is your current situation that is troubling you or something that happened to you in your past.
![Photo of Zoe Leah Carter-Beedie - Zoe Carter-Beedie - Natural Footsteps Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f76af3e0-364f-4a05-bc98-0dadc13f11da/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zoe Carter-Beedie - Natural Footsteps Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Fishponds, Bristol BS16
My core aim as a counsellor is to provide a warm and consistent space for you to feel heard and understood. We have many parts within us that need a listening ear, and open heart. When we find acceptance and compassion for ourselves, things can start to change in our lives. I offer kindness, non-judgement, and curiosity so that you can begin to feel resilient and self-loving. Each of us is born with inherent wisdom and we are our own best expert. But you may have lost trust along the way. I strive to offer you a nurturing, therapeutic relationship that encourages a sense of safety to trust.
My core aim as a counsellor is to provide a warm and consistent space for you to feel heard and understood. We have many parts within us that need a listening ear, and open heart. When we find acceptance and compassion for ourselves, things can start to change in our lives. I offer kindness, non-judgement, and curiosity so that you can begin to feel resilient and self-loving. Each of us is born with inherent wisdom and we are our own best expert. But you may have lost trust along the way. I strive to offer you a nurturing, therapeutic relationship that encourages a sense of safety to trust.
15 Second Videos
Deb Brown
Martha Cunningham
Rebecca Smith
Heart to Heart Bristol
Patrick Fountain
Gary McFarlane
Emily Mew
![Photo of Martha Cunningham, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a207471-5b0a-4d6c-9992-ddc6a01a3f9d/2/320x400.png)
Let me tell you a bit about me... Finding a therapist that can actually relate to you is hard, can feel exhausting at times. I know because it took me a while to find an effective therapist that understands what it's like to struggle. I hope I can be that person for you. I have an intuitive, friendly approach and will work hard to empower you to make the changes you have been looking for. I work from a person centred stance as I believe the key to lasting therapy is forming strong trusting relationships, helping you to understand yourself better.
Let me tell you a bit about me... Finding a therapist that can actually relate to you is hard, can feel exhausting at times. I know because it took me a while to find an effective therapist that understands what it's like to struggle. I hope I can be that person for you. I have an intuitive, friendly approach and will work hard to empower you to make the changes you have been looking for. I work from a person centred stance as I believe the key to lasting therapy is forming strong trusting relationships, helping you to understand yourself better.
![Photo of Kerry Rawlings - KR Ltd Supervision & Consultancy, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1219184-90b1-4baf-b8a8-9c61ca793f66/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a counsellor looking for supervision within the Bristol area but also want something that is affordable? My name is Kerry I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor. I am the founder of a well established and recognised counselling company in Bristol, where I manage and support a team of up to 30 student and qualified counsellors. My ethos has always been to provide support to others that is affordable and easy to access and this is exactly what I hope to provide as a supervisor to. I am able to work both online/telephone and in person.
Are you a counsellor looking for supervision within the Bristol area but also want something that is affordable? My name is Kerry I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor. I am the founder of a well established and recognised counselling company in Bristol, where I manage and support a team of up to 30 student and qualified counsellors. My ethos has always been to provide support to others that is affordable and easy to access and this is exactly what I hope to provide as a supervisor to. I am able to work both online/telephone and in person.
![Photo of Ashlyn Firkins, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/755b9043-7fe8-4834-b6d3-b80a1beb311d/1/320x400.png)
Ashlyn Firkins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fishponds, Bristol BS16 (Online Only)
I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, with almost a decade of experience as an NHS Psychologist. I have a strong belief that people are intrinsically resilient, resourceful & that under the right therapeutic conditions, emotional suffering can be reduced & fulfilling lives, lived out. My intention is to provide a safe, hopeful space for people to explore how they would like to be in the wider world & practical ways to achieve this. I work with a broad range of difficulties, which include anxiety, low mood, trauma, chronic-illnesses, relationship and employment issues.
I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, with almost a decade of experience as an NHS Psychologist. I have a strong belief that people are intrinsically resilient, resourceful & that under the right therapeutic conditions, emotional suffering can be reduced & fulfilling lives, lived out. My intention is to provide a safe, hopeful space for people to explore how they would like to be in the wider world & practical ways to achieve this. I work with a broad range of difficulties, which include anxiety, low mood, trauma, chronic-illnesses, relationship and employment issues.
![Photo of Rebecca Smith, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/905cd418-6cfc-4d64-bbe5-c7fe04794b7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental psychotherapist and counsellor. I have worked with adults, young people and families for many years and am passionate about helping people on their way towards making change and living happier and more fulfilled lives. I offer a safe, non-judgemental environment in which you can explore what is going on for you and the impact this is having on your life. I offer a free, no-obligation, introductory session either on the telephone or online and both short term and longer term counselling is available.
I am a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental psychotherapist and counsellor. I have worked with adults, young people and families for many years and am passionate about helping people on their way towards making change and living happier and more fulfilled lives. I offer a safe, non-judgemental environment in which you can explore what is going on for you and the impact this is having on your life. I offer a free, no-obligation, introductory session either on the telephone or online and both short term and longer term counselling is available.
![Photo of Jeanette Howlett, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c16608-8022-4b5e-bf6e-cf0d3d4c94ac/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you have decided now is the time to make some changes in your life I would be very happy to hear from you. I have over 20 years experience as a counsellor with individuals, couples and as a supervisor. I am passionate about the counselling process. Contact me to find out how I can help.
If you have decided now is the time to make some changes in your life I would be very happy to hear from you. I have over 20 years experience as a counsellor with individuals, couples and as a supervisor. I am passionate about the counselling process. Contact me to find out how I can help.
![Photo of Carla Patino, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21bd9cc0-4dc1-47aa-a608-3a4335f839f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Carla. I am a psychotherapeutic Counsellor and member of the BACP. I work in an open, warm and non-judgmental way. I believe my job is not to tell you what to do, but to create a safe space for you to feel heard. Drawing on different therapeutic approaches, I aim to support you in gaining deeper awareness of behaviour patterns and difficult feelings. Therapy is an opportunity to reconnect with your authentic self and to develop a better relationship with yourself and others. My hourly rate is £45. I offer discounted sessions of £35 to teachers, students, military families, NHS staff and new parents (kids under 3).
Hello, my name is Carla. I am a psychotherapeutic Counsellor and member of the BACP. I work in an open, warm and non-judgmental way. I believe my job is not to tell you what to do, but to create a safe space for you to feel heard. Drawing on different therapeutic approaches, I aim to support you in gaining deeper awareness of behaviour patterns and difficult feelings. Therapy is an opportunity to reconnect with your authentic self and to develop a better relationship with yourself and others. My hourly rate is £45. I offer discounted sessions of £35 to teachers, students, military families, NHS staff and new parents (kids under 3).
![Photo of Kerry Rawlings - Heart to Heart Bristol, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1902576-0f0a-4ad7-83da-3a80f318bbfb/1/320x400.png)
We understand that everyone has their own story to tell and that life's experiences can sometimes be a struggle to hold. Do you want to feel herd and dont no where to go or even where to start? Counselling may be the place for you. We are here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about and explore your concerns and issues. Counselling offers you the chance to gain a more secure sense of self. Working together with a counsellor can provide you with the tools to take control of your struggles and lighten the weight you carry.
We understand that everyone has their own story to tell and that life's experiences can sometimes be a struggle to hold. Do you want to feel herd and dont no where to go or even where to start? Counselling may be the place for you. We are here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about and explore your concerns and issues. Counselling offers you the chance to gain a more secure sense of self. Working together with a counsellor can provide you with the tools to take control of your struggles and lighten the weight you carry.
![Photo of Peter M. Lowis, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ccd6a37-9366-4461-8a60-118e08e69505/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist, with more than 25 years' experience of working with adult clients in both private practice and NHS settings. I also have extensive experience as a couples therapist, group facilitator, trainer and educator in psychotherapy, and as a supervisor of other practitioners. My therapeutic approach integrates elements of contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy with a Humanistic emphasis on a direct and real relationship. To find out more about me, visit my website: bristolpsychotherapist.com
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist, with more than 25 years' experience of working with adult clients in both private practice and NHS settings. I also have extensive experience as a couples therapist, group facilitator, trainer and educator in psychotherapy, and as a supervisor of other practitioners. My therapeutic approach integrates elements of contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy with a Humanistic emphasis on a direct and real relationship. To find out more about me, visit my website: bristolpsychotherapist.com
![Photo of Michelle Dias, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a78f8445-5fe7-4577-bf62-0176dc92cb1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey, I’m Michelle, an insured and qualified Counsellor and Supervisor. As a Person-Centred integrative Counsellor, within the bounds of a supportive, therapeutic relationship. I am here to listen and support you with whatever you bring to sessions. The sessions are tailored to you as your journey is unique, and so is your therapy. Therefore, I would draw on various approaches and models which would best benefit you in a safe, non judgemental and supportive space in order for you to gain clarity, self-awareness and confidence in life. I offer individual sessions for both short or long term counselling, dependent what you'd like.
Hey, I’m Michelle, an insured and qualified Counsellor and Supervisor. As a Person-Centred integrative Counsellor, within the bounds of a supportive, therapeutic relationship. I am here to listen and support you with whatever you bring to sessions. The sessions are tailored to you as your journey is unique, and so is your therapy. Therefore, I would draw on various approaches and models which would best benefit you in a safe, non judgemental and supportive space in order for you to gain clarity, self-awareness and confidence in life. I offer individual sessions for both short or long term counselling, dependent what you'd like.
See more therapy options for Fishponds, Bristol
Nearby Searches for Fishponds, Bristol
- Bishopston
- Brislington
- City Center
- Cotham
- Frenchay
- Henleaze
- Horfield
- Old City
- Redcliffe
- St George
- Stapleton
- Totterdown
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Fishponds, Bristol
40+
Average cost per session
£55
Counsellors in Fishponds, Bristol who prioritize treating:
86% | Relationship Issues |
86% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
81% | Stress |
79% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aviva |
50% | Bupa |
38% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Counsellors in Fishponds, Bristol see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Fishponds, Bristol?
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.