Counselling in New Town, Edinburgh
![Photo of Julia Hutter - Julia Hutter Counselling, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bf31ef7-e450-44ee-b58b-ed0554cb9ff6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Hutter Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Town, Edinburgh EH7 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you been finding it harder to cope lately? Are you looking to get some perspective on the different relationships you have in your life? You might be longing to feel more connected and more at peace with yourself and in your body, but you don't really know where to start. It can feel scary and difficult to find a professional you can trust and open up with. I believe that giving yourself permission to reach out to someone is an important step, and I am here to guide you on your onward journey.
Have you been finding it harder to cope lately? Are you looking to get some perspective on the different relationships you have in your life? You might be longing to feel more connected and more at peace with yourself and in your body, but you don't really know where to start. It can feel scary and difficult to find a professional you can trust and open up with. I believe that giving yourself permission to reach out to someone is an important step, and I am here to guide you on your onward journey.
![Photo of Gillian Reid - Gillian Reid Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b434de3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mode of therapy is psychodynamic, based on Freudian psychoanalysis, where a basic, central, premise was his view of the mind. Freud’s belief intimated that some of what we experience on a day-to-day basis e.g. emotions, beliefs and impulses; takes place in the unconscious and is not available to the conscious mind. Similarly, my belief, is that the unconscious mind governs behaviour to a much greater degree than people suspect and my therapy involves deep exploration of clients’ past to access, and understand, the root cause of their problems. The emphasis of psychodynamic therapy is on the trust between client and therapist.
My mode of therapy is psychodynamic, based on Freudian psychoanalysis, where a basic, central, premise was his view of the mind. Freud’s belief intimated that some of what we experience on a day-to-day basis e.g. emotions, beliefs and impulses; takes place in the unconscious and is not available to the conscious mind. Similarly, my belief, is that the unconscious mind governs behaviour to a much greater degree than people suspect and my therapy involves deep exploration of clients’ past to access, and understand, the root cause of their problems. The emphasis of psychodynamic therapy is on the trust between client and therapist.
![Photo of Stephanie Saunders, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6097f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Edinburgh based Sex and relationship counsellor working full time in private practice with individuals & couples. My practice is based in central Edinburgh however I am currently working online. I specialise in explorative & action based proactive talk therapy aimed at helping you achieve the changes you would like to make in your life & to help you gain clarity & understanding to the life experiences you would like to work with.
I am an Edinburgh based Sex and relationship counsellor working full time in private practice with individuals & couples. My practice is based in central Edinburgh however I am currently working online. I specialise in explorative & action based proactive talk therapy aimed at helping you achieve the changes you would like to make in your life & to help you gain clarity & understanding to the life experiences you would like to work with.
![Photo of Noam Simon, MA, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1417ea63-502e-4765-9c68-47e0239abf35/2/320x400.jpeg)
So often our difficulties make us feel stuck, bound in place. Sometimes we can see we are caught in a loop, but don't know how to get free. Or we know what to do, but just can't seem to do it. And sometimes we don't even know what is making us feel stuck and where to start. Problems with our health, mood, traumatic experiences, changes to our life circumstances such as our employment or living arrangement, relationships, achievements, habits- any of these can make us feel stuck. Even good things such as weddings or promotions can be a stressor that gets us feeling this way.
So often our difficulties make us feel stuck, bound in place. Sometimes we can see we are caught in a loop, but don't know how to get free. Or we know what to do, but just can't seem to do it. And sometimes we don't even know what is making us feel stuck and where to start. Problems with our health, mood, traumatic experiences, changes to our life circumstances such as our employment or living arrangement, relationships, achievements, habits- any of these can make us feel stuck. Even good things such as weddings or promotions can be a stressor that gets us feeling this way.
![Photo of Blanca Poveda, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e05ff57c-fb5a-4972-b00f-8baa1932c873/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist that is specialised in working with people with neurological conditions; from concussion, to strokes and brain injuries, as well as progressive conditions like MS or dementia. I can help with adjustment to the condition, learning more about it and living with it.
I am a clinical psychologist that is specialised in working with people with neurological conditions; from concussion, to strokes and brain injuries, as well as progressive conditions like MS or dementia. I can help with adjustment to the condition, learning more about it and living with it.
![Photo of Maya Tomse, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1d30664-e24a-4ab8-bb54-2ef983903199/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Maya Tomse. I'm a Psychologist, a Psychotherapist and a Counsellor. I work with couples and individuals, online. I specialise in relationships, and troubles specific to transitions we go through, especially complex life transitions. My interest in transitions and relationships stems from my own personal experiences. I was born in Yugoslavia, a country that got torn apart by war when I was around 10 years old. Later, throughout my life I've lived and worked in many different countries and at present hold 3 different citizenships.
Hi, I'm Maya Tomse. I'm a Psychologist, a Psychotherapist and a Counsellor. I work with couples and individuals, online. I specialise in relationships, and troubles specific to transitions we go through, especially complex life transitions. My interest in transitions and relationships stems from my own personal experiences. I was born in Yugoslavia, a country that got torn apart by war when I was around 10 years old. Later, throughout my life I've lived and worked in many different countries and at present hold 3 different citizenships.
![Photo of Dr Hannah Ranaldi - Health Specialist, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec25b766-f90b-4851-acbe-af7b75c5d1e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Hannah Ranaldi - Health Specialist
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Town, Edinburgh EH1
Are you looking to adapt, cope, and manage changes in your health and wellbeing? As a Health Psychologist, I specialise in working with women’s health (e.g., menopause and menstrual conditions), stress and burnout, chronic pain, and managing long-term conditions (e.g., heart conditions, diabetes, chronic fatigue, long Covid, and gut health). Psychological approaches can help manage and reduce symptom severity and help improve overall quality of life, so that you feel less restricted by your health and able to start living a rich and meaningful life. My clients often arrive feeling stuck, or depressed, anxious, and overwhelmed.
Are you looking to adapt, cope, and manage changes in your health and wellbeing? As a Health Psychologist, I specialise in working with women’s health (e.g., menopause and menstrual conditions), stress and burnout, chronic pain, and managing long-term conditions (e.g., heart conditions, diabetes, chronic fatigue, long Covid, and gut health). Psychological approaches can help manage and reduce symptom severity and help improve overall quality of life, so that you feel less restricted by your health and able to start living a rich and meaningful life. My clients often arrive feeling stuck, or depressed, anxious, and overwhelmed.
![Photo of Léonie Graham, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30e2cb22-ff05-4d5d-b19b-7d610956ef92/3/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy can be for anyone, it can be for growth, healing and learning, as much as for working through something. Choosing to set aside a pocket of time and space just for you, can provide relief from stresses of modern-day living, giving you a chance to recognise what is really important to you and working out what steps you want to take towards the life you want for yourself. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to explore things that are troubling you, process past experiences and work towards any goals you might have.
Therapy can be for anyone, it can be for growth, healing and learning, as much as for working through something. Choosing to set aside a pocket of time and space just for you, can provide relief from stresses of modern-day living, giving you a chance to recognise what is really important to you and working out what steps you want to take towards the life you want for yourself. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to explore things that are troubling you, process past experiences and work towards any goals you might have.
![Photo of Yvonne Earl, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/371096e4-8041-437f-8ce5-c29b8f33b788/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Yvonne Earl. I am a psychological therapist with over thirty years experience working in the field of child and adolescent mental health. I offer evidence based, high quality assessment and treatment to children and young people. My sessions are tailored to the needs of the individual child or adolescent, as each and every person and family has their own strengths and difficulties. Specialities Low Self Esteem, Depression, Self Harm, Exam Stress, School Difficulties Anxiety, OCD, Phobias, Parenting Problems, Family/Work, Eating Disorders, Bereavement, Lack of Confidence, Parental Consultations.
Hello, my name is Yvonne Earl. I am a psychological therapist with over thirty years experience working in the field of child and adolescent mental health. I offer evidence based, high quality assessment and treatment to children and young people. My sessions are tailored to the needs of the individual child or adolescent, as each and every person and family has their own strengths and difficulties. Specialities Low Self Esteem, Depression, Self Harm, Exam Stress, School Difficulties Anxiety, OCD, Phobias, Parenting Problems, Family/Work, Eating Disorders, Bereavement, Lack of Confidence, Parental Consultations.
![Photo of Marie MacLeod, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65960065-615a-47ab-9c3d-02f6167c1d3b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Difficulties and stress in the relationships that matter most to you can be a source of distress, anxiety, frustration or despair. When all your efforts to make things better still haven't worked, maybe it's time to think about trying a different approach. Working with a experienced relationship counsellor can give you the time and space to explore what is troubling you. I work with individual adults and couples from all backgrounds, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities to help them gain insight and fresh perspectives on life, relationships, and other issues that cause distress.
Difficulties and stress in the relationships that matter most to you can be a source of distress, anxiety, frustration or despair. When all your efforts to make things better still haven't worked, maybe it's time to think about trying a different approach. Working with a experienced relationship counsellor can give you the time and space to explore what is troubling you. I work with individual adults and couples from all backgrounds, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities to help them gain insight and fresh perspectives on life, relationships, and other issues that cause distress.
![Photo of Jude Sevestre - Through The Woods Therapy - Jude Sevestre, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdb60c69-5f6c-48d6-bb59-f0e46f844057/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through The Woods Therapy - Jude Sevestre
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
New Town, Edinburgh EH1
Waitlist for new clients
Most people come to counselling with a big story - a life full of experiences and challenges that brought them to where they are now. I'd really like to hear your story if you would like to tell it. I am a relational, TA-trained counsellor with extensive experience in working with anxiety, panic attacks, (complex) trauma, self harm, suicidal thoughts and depression. I enjoy working with the LGBTQI+ community, and have specific experience in working with Trans/Non-binary clients. I also have a passion for working with mental health symptoms related to the hormonal cycle, such as Endometriosis, PCOS, PMDD, and (Peri-)Menopause.
Most people come to counselling with a big story - a life full of experiences and challenges that brought them to where they are now. I'd really like to hear your story if you would like to tell it. I am a relational, TA-trained counsellor with extensive experience in working with anxiety, panic attacks, (complex) trauma, self harm, suicidal thoughts and depression. I enjoy working with the LGBTQI+ community, and have specific experience in working with Trans/Non-binary clients. I also have a passion for working with mental health symptoms related to the hormonal cycle, such as Endometriosis, PCOS, PMDD, and (Peri-)Menopause.
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Anxiety, family/relationship struggles, traumatic past experiences, feeling low...there are lots of reasons that may have driven you in search of someone to speak with. I offer a safe, confidential and grounded space to share whatever might be concerning you. We will explore whatever has led you to seek counselling at whatever pace feels safest and easiest for you. In terms of how you might experience me...Open, warm, grounded, not afraid to have a laugh or shed a tear, sensitive, non-judgemental and welcoming of all regardless of race, age, gender, sexuality or history.
Anxiety, family/relationship struggles, traumatic past experiences, feeling low...there are lots of reasons that may have driven you in search of someone to speak with. I offer a safe, confidential and grounded space to share whatever might be concerning you. We will explore whatever has led you to seek counselling at whatever pace feels safest and easiest for you. In terms of how you might experience me...Open, warm, grounded, not afraid to have a laugh or shed a tear, sensitive, non-judgemental and welcoming of all regardless of race, age, gender, sexuality or history.
![Photo of Dr Anna Planedin, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f05534f1-2259-470b-b024-411708874cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Anna Planedin
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Town, Edinburgh EH2
Hello, my name is Anna Planedin and my main approach is psychodynamic but I am also trained in person-centered practice. I am interested in helping people find relief and movement from a place of feeling 'stuck.' I specialize in working with chronic pain, loss, trauma and sex/sexuality. I view therapy as a process of helping you listen to your gut feelings, find safety and containment and feel less alone in overwhelming life experiences. It is my hope that through speaking about difficult or taboo feelings with me, you will feel understood and accepted, and that over time you feel more powerful in how you respond to difficulty.
Hello, my name is Anna Planedin and my main approach is psychodynamic but I am also trained in person-centered practice. I am interested in helping people find relief and movement from a place of feeling 'stuck.' I specialize in working with chronic pain, loss, trauma and sex/sexuality. I view therapy as a process of helping you listen to your gut feelings, find safety and containment and feel less alone in overwhelming life experiences. It is my hope that through speaking about difficult or taboo feelings with me, you will feel understood and accepted, and that over time you feel more powerful in how you respond to difficulty.
![Photo of Dr George Reid, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/099bf1f5-cbe5-4b84-9e70-a1e1ab176296/2/320x400.jpeg)
Having the right fit (“therapeutic alliance”) with your psychologist is viewed as the most crucial factor in the healing process. I would encourage you to choose a practitioner with a broad life experience as well as a clinical training in a range of evidence-based psychological therapies. A former lawyer, I practised human rights & social justice law for years in the courts in the UK. This led to my interest in psychology & trauma & therapies to overcome psychological difficulties. I’ve lived in Canada, France, Italy & Scotland and have travelled all over the world, so I hope to have a background which may help you.
Having the right fit (“therapeutic alliance”) with your psychologist is viewed as the most crucial factor in the healing process. I would encourage you to choose a practitioner with a broad life experience as well as a clinical training in a range of evidence-based psychological therapies. A former lawyer, I practised human rights & social justice law for years in the courts in the UK. This led to my interest in psychology & trauma & therapies to overcome psychological difficulties. I’ve lived in Canada, France, Italy & Scotland and have travelled all over the world, so I hope to have a background which may help you.
![Photo of Juulia Karlstedt, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eef31c7a-7081-40e1-86a8-ea409b97f7a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism; this triple combo of hurt can stop us from going after the things we really want in life. We can find ourselves trying to distract ourselves from the uncomfortable fear of failing, opting out of things we want to do out of fear, and getting caught up in thoughts about 'what ifs' and 'maybe' until we feel frozen. Or we might push ourselves to the point of burning out seeking the validation we only find when we achieve something driven by a fear of the day we are not good enough. If your sense of self-worth has become tied to 'doing' rather than simply existing, I may be able to help.
Anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism; this triple combo of hurt can stop us from going after the things we really want in life. We can find ourselves trying to distract ourselves from the uncomfortable fear of failing, opting out of things we want to do out of fear, and getting caught up in thoughts about 'what ifs' and 'maybe' until we feel frozen. Or we might push ourselves to the point of burning out seeking the validation we only find when we achieve something driven by a fear of the day we are not good enough. If your sense of self-worth has become tied to 'doing' rather than simply existing, I may be able to help.
![Photo of Dr Margy Bowes - The Postpartum Psychologist , HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7d58853-55b4-4443-9eb9-2133ac08238f/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Postpartum Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
New Town, Edinburgh EH2 (Online Only)
Are you a new parent struggling to cope with the transition to motherhood? Are you feeling disorientated, lost and wondering who you now are since having a baby? Are you struggling to "enjoy every minute" of motherhood and therefore feel there must be something "wrong" with you? Do you feel that everyone around you seems to be moving on with their life but you are still trying to process and understand the journey that you now find yourself on? Do you feel like you are the only one struggling with new parenthood? Do you feel "seen" or understood as a person who has gone through the life-transforming rite of passage of giving birth?
Are you a new parent struggling to cope with the transition to motherhood? Are you feeling disorientated, lost and wondering who you now are since having a baby? Are you struggling to "enjoy every minute" of motherhood and therefore feel there must be something "wrong" with you? Do you feel that everyone around you seems to be moving on with their life but you are still trying to process and understand the journey that you now find yourself on? Do you feel like you are the only one struggling with new parenthood? Do you feel "seen" or understood as a person who has gone through the life-transforming rite of passage of giving birth?
![Photo of Marie O'Neill - Space for the Soul, MCOSCA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f90ae01-1b15-44b0-949b-4f6d8a36c0cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be stressful. Balancing the pressure of our commitments with our desire for health, happiness and authenticity can feel exhausting or even impossible. We all need to slow down and carve out some space in our lives to connect with our inner selves and the deeper meaning beyond our everyday existence. I offer a holistic approach to counselling and therapy, combining evidence based practice with holistic tools such as mindfulness, meditation, somatic experiencing, self-care, personal and spiritual growth. I am committed to a deepening path of open-hearted living and self discovery.
Life can be stressful. Balancing the pressure of our commitments with our desire for health, happiness and authenticity can feel exhausting or even impossible. We all need to slow down and carve out some space in our lives to connect with our inner selves and the deeper meaning beyond our everyday existence. I offer a holistic approach to counselling and therapy, combining evidence based practice with holistic tools such as mindfulness, meditation, somatic experiencing, self-care, personal and spiritual growth. I am committed to a deepening path of open-hearted living and self discovery.
![Photo of Dr Mikaela Sansone-Pollock, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7785a66-6a1d-452d-af47-28ab1f1997d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mikaela Sansone-Pollock
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
New Town, Edinburgh EH1
Hi, I’m Mikaela, a counselling psychologist with a strong belief that every person is deserving of self-regard, respect, and support to live their best life. From the moment we meet I will receive you and your concerns without judgment. I am trained in multiple modalities to support people like you to feel better. Whether you have been experiencing low mood or anxiety, panic attacks, trauma-related symptoms, low self-esteem, or any of the many other challenges that one can experience in life, I am here to help.
Hi, I’m Mikaela, a counselling psychologist with a strong belief that every person is deserving of self-regard, respect, and support to live their best life. From the moment we meet I will receive you and your concerns without judgment. I am trained in multiple modalities to support people like you to feel better. Whether you have been experiencing low mood or anxiety, panic attacks, trauma-related symptoms, low self-esteem, or any of the many other challenges that one can experience in life, I am here to help.
![Photo of Psicología En Edimburgo - Psicología en Edimburgo, GMBPsS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3752e91c-64e6-4fd3-bf81-56afa958f83b/3/320x400.jpeg)
People usually come to therapy when they feel that they no longer have the ability to deal with the difficulties they are experiencing, or maybe when they identified a pattern in their behaviour that creates suffering, when many emotions or thoughts come at the same time and make it impossible to cope with them, when they want to learn about themselves and get deep down to get a better relationship with oneself, when the previous ways of coping and support by friends and relatives are not enough to offer them the solutions and relief they seek. Either the reason to come to therapy, it's valid because it's your own.
People usually come to therapy when they feel that they no longer have the ability to deal with the difficulties they are experiencing, or maybe when they identified a pattern in their behaviour that creates suffering, when many emotions or thoughts come at the same time and make it impossible to cope with them, when they want to learn about themselves and get deep down to get a better relationship with oneself, when the previous ways of coping and support by friends and relatives are not enough to offer them the solutions and relief they seek. Either the reason to come to therapy, it's valid because it's your own.
![Photo of Dawn Harris - Kedras Clinics, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2820ce2c-2412-4430-a998-871563b39bcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Imagine seeking growth and understanding, whether you're a child, adult, or professional aiming for performance enhancement. You need compassionate, experienced therapists who blend traditional therapy with neurofeedback. At Kedras Clinics we work with people by creating a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal goals. We support individuals navigating challenges and enhancing well-being to lead fulfilling, balanced lives. If this resonates with you, we are here to guide your journey towards self-awareness, resilience, and optimal performance using a mixture of therapy and neurofeedback.
Imagine seeking growth and understanding, whether you're a child, adult, or professional aiming for performance enhancement. You need compassionate, experienced therapists who blend traditional therapy with neurofeedback. At Kedras Clinics we work with people by creating a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal goals. We support individuals navigating challenges and enhancing well-being to lead fulfilling, balanced lives. If this resonates with you, we are here to guide your journey towards self-awareness, resilience, and optimal performance using a mixture of therapy and neurofeedback.
See more therapy options for New Town, Edinburgh
Nearby Searches for New Town, Edinburgh
- Bonnington
- Comely Bank
- Haymarket
- Leith
- Morningside
- Newington
- Old Town
- Roseburn
- Southside
- Stockbridge
- Warriston
- West End
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in New Town, Edinburgh
100+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in New Town, Edinburgh who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
82% | Relationship Issues |
82% | Self Esteem |
78% | Stress |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
66% | Aviva |
55% | AXA PPP |
55% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in New Town, Edinburgh see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in New Town, Edinburgh?
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.