Counselling in Bristol
![Photo of Joe Gruenewald, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2b7b3d6-d152-45b0-90e0-05327ceab97f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi and Welcome. I am an empathic, energetic and highly motivated individual who loves motivating others and helping them to work towards realising their true potential. Therapy is an option you might like to consider if you are experiencing difficulties in your life. It can help you think and feel through difficult personal questions, take stock of your life and address the issues that are making life difficult. Gaining a clearer appreciation and understanding of a problem is the first step on the road to making changes. Adapting the way I work to your specific needs, we will explore and discover, what might best assist you.
Hi and Welcome. I am an empathic, energetic and highly motivated individual who loves motivating others and helping them to work towards realising their true potential. Therapy is an option you might like to consider if you are experiencing difficulties in your life. It can help you think and feel through difficult personal questions, take stock of your life and address the issues that are making life difficult. Gaining a clearer appreciation and understanding of a problem is the first step on the road to making changes. Adapting the way I work to your specific needs, we will explore and discover, what might best assist you.
![Photo of Irene Gould, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eec4d446-510e-4546-bd0e-bc14f04cd869/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults, aged 17 and over who are experiencing the range of anxiety and depression disorders. This includes: Anger; Body dysmorphic disorder; Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or worry; Depression; Health Anxiety; Low self-esteem; Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; Panic disorder; Perfectionism; Phobias (e.g. spider, heights, vomit); Post-traumatic Stress Disorder; Self-harm; Social anxiety/phobia; people with additional needs such as physical disabilities, communication difficulties and neuro-divergence; Long-term health conditions.
I work with adults, aged 17 and over who are experiencing the range of anxiety and depression disorders. This includes: Anger; Body dysmorphic disorder; Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or worry; Depression; Health Anxiety; Low self-esteem; Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; Panic disorder; Perfectionism; Phobias (e.g. spider, heights, vomit); Post-traumatic Stress Disorder; Self-harm; Social anxiety/phobia; people with additional needs such as physical disabilities, communication difficulties and neuro-divergence; Long-term health conditions.
![Photo of Jessica Murray, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d8797b3-ef21-45da-abac-7d58841dfc45/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a BACP Registered Integrative Counsellor and mainly practice Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is an emotion-focused, trauma-informed and attachment-based approach with very positive research outcomes. Some people begin therapy clear about what they want help with, others need some assistance in understanding their difficulty. I provide a safe space for clients to better understand their behaviour and experiences by making links between the present difficulty and the past. We also work together in the session to help you explore new ways of relating to yourself and your problem.
I am a BACP Registered Integrative Counsellor and mainly practice Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is an emotion-focused, trauma-informed and attachment-based approach with very positive research outcomes. Some people begin therapy clear about what they want help with, others need some assistance in understanding their difficulty. I provide a safe space for clients to better understand their behaviour and experiences by making links between the present difficulty and the past. We also work together in the session to help you explore new ways of relating to yourself and your problem.
![Photo of Mei Choate, PhD, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebd0861c-2334-4f4a-8113-c31332431d04/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a caring, patient, and warm person and offer a safe, non-judgmental, accepting environment, where you can feel at ease and discuss what brings you to counselling. . Whether it is for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, OCD, low self-esteem, bereavement, relationships or cross-cultural issues. Having lived in the Far East and EU, I bring a lived understanding of the challenges some clients face negotiating different cultures, values and beliefs. I am an experienced BACP-accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist using an integrative approach, drawing on various models to best serve the unique person you are.
I am a caring, patient, and warm person and offer a safe, non-judgmental, accepting environment, where you can feel at ease and discuss what brings you to counselling. . Whether it is for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, OCD, low self-esteem, bereavement, relationships or cross-cultural issues. Having lived in the Far East and EU, I bring a lived understanding of the challenges some clients face negotiating different cultures, values and beliefs. I am an experienced BACP-accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist using an integrative approach, drawing on various models to best serve the unique person you are.
![Photo of Nick Benians, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc0c3bb-b6e7-43d0-8abd-04e05323fcc6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Benians
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS9
Waitlist for new clients
If you are ready for lasting change, then EMDR therapy may be for you – EMDR seeks to address the heart of the matter. I can help you to move from 'coping' to greater self-acceptance, and embracing life more fully.
If you are ready for lasting change, then EMDR therapy may be for you – EMDR seeks to address the heart of the matter. I can help you to move from 'coping' to greater self-acceptance, and embracing life more fully.
![Photo of Charlie Louise Ranchhod, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ed225c6-962e-4daa-aa8f-87856aa27dbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hey, I'm Charlie a fully accredited a CBT & Occupational Therapist. Specialised in working with children, adolescents and young adults; ages 8-25. I also work with adults. I am passionate about helping you achieve your individualised goals through evidenced based CBT for anxiety and depression (social, health, separation, phobia, OCD, self-esteem, panic, trauma). Throughout my 20 year NHS career I've worked in a range of settings - education, specialist inpatient, CAMHS, early psychosis. This means therapy will be tailored to you, planning an effective treatment plan together which keeps your goals at the heart of what we do.
Hey, I'm Charlie a fully accredited a CBT & Occupational Therapist. Specialised in working with children, adolescents and young adults; ages 8-25. I also work with adults. I am passionate about helping you achieve your individualised goals through evidenced based CBT for anxiety and depression (social, health, separation, phobia, OCD, self-esteem, panic, trauma). Throughout my 20 year NHS career I've worked in a range of settings - education, specialist inpatient, CAMHS, early psychosis. This means therapy will be tailored to you, planning an effective treatment plan together which keeps your goals at the heart of what we do.
![Photo of David Banos Smith, PhD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d04148-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people who are you feeling anxious or depressed or uncertain how to live in a way that feels satisfying. With people who have suffered bereavement, the end of a relationship or who are struggling with relationships that aren't working and leave them feeling unhappy. With people who are unhappy at work and feel stuck in a job that isn't what they'd hoped it would be, a job that's too challenging or not challenging enough. With people who are struggling with ways of being sexual, who find it hard to have the kind of sexual relationships they want, to know how to begin, negotiate or end intimate sexual relationships.
I work with people who are you feeling anxious or depressed or uncertain how to live in a way that feels satisfying. With people who have suffered bereavement, the end of a relationship or who are struggling with relationships that aren't working and leave them feeling unhappy. With people who are unhappy at work and feel stuck in a job that isn't what they'd hoped it would be, a job that's too challenging or not challenging enough. With people who are struggling with ways of being sexual, who find it hard to have the kind of sexual relationships they want, to know how to begin, negotiate or end intimate sexual relationships.
![Photo of Stuart Melvin, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd938f5e-3dae-4e70-b663-01fee82f1aad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counsellor and Psychotherapist with 30 years experience. I have worked in the NHS (Camhs) for the past 17 years. I work with adults and adolescents using diverse clinical, therapeutic interventions both online and at my clinic in Westbury on Trym. I have worked in various therapeutic contexts and disciplines, so am highly skilled at working with adolescents aged between 11 and 18 years, their parents and families as well as with adults with a range of mental health issues. My long service within this field has required me to learn about the use of specific clinical pathways relating to a range of presenting problems.
Counsellor and Psychotherapist with 30 years experience. I have worked in the NHS (Camhs) for the past 17 years. I work with adults and adolescents using diverse clinical, therapeutic interventions both online and at my clinic in Westbury on Trym. I have worked in various therapeutic contexts and disciplines, so am highly skilled at working with adolescents aged between 11 and 18 years, their parents and families as well as with adults with a range of mental health issues. My long service within this field has required me to learn about the use of specific clinical pathways relating to a range of presenting problems.
![Photo of Sarah Louise Davies - The Rose May Practice - Sarah Davies , MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc2b34f4-3b41-4d38-8754-b3a1dbad4d86/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Rose May Practice - Sarah Davies
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS5 (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychotherapist specialising in EMDR Trauma therapy. I am an accredited member of the NCPS, NCYPT & EMDRIA register. I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including IFS (informed) as a member of the IFS Online Circle in an integrative approach.
I am a clinical psychotherapist specialising in EMDR Trauma therapy. I am an accredited member of the NCPS, NCYPT & EMDRIA register. I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including IFS (informed) as a member of the IFS Online Circle in an integrative approach.
![Photo of Emily Mew, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e42d6b0-eaa1-44ad-a42b-19c3ebaced47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for an experienced counsellor who will meet you with warmth and acceptance and who will help you to find your own path forwards? I work with a wide range of clients experiencing all sorts of challenges including: anxiety, depression, bereavement, loss, relationship difficulties and low self-esteem. Whatever you bring to counselling, I will see you as a human rather than a list of problems to be solved. I am engaged and caring and will help you to develop a fuller and deeper understanding of yourself and find your way through life's challenges.
Are you looking for an experienced counsellor who will meet you with warmth and acceptance and who will help you to find your own path forwards? I work with a wide range of clients experiencing all sorts of challenges including: anxiety, depression, bereavement, loss, relationship difficulties and low self-esteem. Whatever you bring to counselling, I will see you as a human rather than a list of problems to be solved. I am engaged and caring and will help you to develop a fuller and deeper understanding of yourself and find your way through life's challenges.
![Photo of Charlotte Rose, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3099dc35-72dd-4407-9c37-4ae45bcdb285/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life is hard - and we can easily get trapped in trying to feel in control while at the same time losing contact with what's important. Therapy can provide an opportunity to carefully think things through when your attempts to get by are tiring you out and no longer working. Therapy is about teamwork: we both listen out for patterns or themes; try to understand where problems might have come from; and get a sense of your personal and social sources of stress and strength. We can also consider what meaningful change might look like, and I can support you to plan and work towards this in a safe and manageable way.
Sometimes life is hard - and we can easily get trapped in trying to feel in control while at the same time losing contact with what's important. Therapy can provide an opportunity to carefully think things through when your attempts to get by are tiring you out and no longer working. Therapy is about teamwork: we both listen out for patterns or themes; try to understand where problems might have come from; and get a sense of your personal and social sources of stress and strength. We can also consider what meaningful change might look like, and I can support you to plan and work towards this in a safe and manageable way.
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![Photo of Nicky Smith @ Vermonti Health, MA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5e822ef-1327-4918-881c-0ededabb855d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I consider collaboration, compassion, curiosity and “unconditional positive regard,” at the heart of my role as a therapist. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment which cultivates trust, integrity and connection. I’m truly passionate about mental health and the holistic wellbeing of people. It’s a privilege to hold space and work alongside people within the therapy process. I hope through offering a meaning making framework, which honours an individual’s difficulties, their lived experience and acknowledges the inter-relationship between mind-body. A pathway towards healing, recovery and growth can be nurtured.
I consider collaboration, compassion, curiosity and “unconditional positive regard,” at the heart of my role as a therapist. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment which cultivates trust, integrity and connection. I’m truly passionate about mental health and the holistic wellbeing of people. It’s a privilege to hold space and work alongside people within the therapy process. I hope through offering a meaning making framework, which honours an individual’s difficulties, their lived experience and acknowledges the inter-relationship between mind-body. A pathway towards healing, recovery and growth can be nurtured.
![Photo of Michael F Harris, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/185ebe6c-926f-4206-923a-9120299d61c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Michael Harris, a fully qualified therapist, governed by BACP, NCPS & BPS accredited counselling bodies. I offer Life and Wellness therapy in Bristol (and beyond) to individuals, couples, groups and companies. My Bristol Counselling practice (and beyond) is online, or by telephone, across English-speaking time zones, at a schedule that works for you. I help you find your Blazing Soul - balance and direction, clarity and focus, increased confidence and self-esteem, and improved mental, physical and emotional wealth.
I'm Michael Harris, a fully qualified therapist, governed by BACP, NCPS & BPS accredited counselling bodies. I offer Life and Wellness therapy in Bristol (and beyond) to individuals, couples, groups and companies. My Bristol Counselling practice (and beyond) is online, or by telephone, across English-speaking time zones, at a schedule that works for you. I help you find your Blazing Soul - balance and direction, clarity and focus, increased confidence and self-esteem, and improved mental, physical and emotional wealth.
![Photo of Steve Moore, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e2108d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
So often in our lives we reach a place where we are struggling in some capacity or another. It may be a deep-rooted issue that goes back to childhood, a past relationship or a trauma. It may be some destructive behaviour such as a form of self-harm or an eating disorder. It may be a negative thought process that is having an impact on our daily life. Whatever the issue, I believe counselling can help. Having a place where we can allow ourselves time and a calm space to think, talk and work things out can be absolutely priceless.
So often in our lives we reach a place where we are struggling in some capacity or another. It may be a deep-rooted issue that goes back to childhood, a past relationship or a trauma. It may be some destructive behaviour such as a form of self-harm or an eating disorder. It may be a negative thought process that is having an impact on our daily life. Whatever the issue, I believe counselling can help. Having a place where we can allow ourselves time and a calm space to think, talk and work things out can be absolutely priceless.
![Photo of Joanna Solazzo - Joanna Solazzo Psychotherapy, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f02e7935-b897-46d7-b6b9-f649dba4752c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy can meet our innate need to be heard and deeply understood. Together we can explore your sense of being in the world and process difficult emotions, recurring difficulties or questions. Working with safety and sensitivity we can also process early life experience, past trauma and complex relational dynamics. My holistic approach aims to work with the whole of a person - I work relationally and openly with you to build awareness of psyche, body, memory, energy. As you deepen your understanding of self, you may start to let go of old patterns, restore a sense of balance and begin to build foundations for growth.
Psychotherapy can meet our innate need to be heard and deeply understood. Together we can explore your sense of being in the world and process difficult emotions, recurring difficulties or questions. Working with safety and sensitivity we can also process early life experience, past trauma and complex relational dynamics. My holistic approach aims to work with the whole of a person - I work relationally and openly with you to build awareness of psyche, body, memory, energy. As you deepen your understanding of self, you may start to let go of old patterns, restore a sense of balance and begin to build foundations for growth.
![Photo of Samantha Coleman, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3841ef-14c3-41dc-9cba-1d1724364792/1/320x400.png)
Samantha Coleman
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS9 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you're neurodivergent, facing enduring mental health or relationship challenges, and feel overlooked by conventional approaches, I'm here to take a different path with you. I want to hear about the world from your perspective—your challenges, your aspirations, your day-to-day. This isn't about fitting you into a box or fixing what's 'wrong'. I'm keen to hear your story – the real you, with all the quirks and colours that make you, well, you. If you're ready for a fresh ear and a new chapter, I'm here to flip the script with you.
If you're neurodivergent, facing enduring mental health or relationship challenges, and feel overlooked by conventional approaches, I'm here to take a different path with you. I want to hear about the world from your perspective—your challenges, your aspirations, your day-to-day. This isn't about fitting you into a box or fixing what's 'wrong'. I'm keen to hear your story – the real you, with all the quirks and colours that make you, well, you. If you're ready for a fresh ear and a new chapter, I'm here to flip the script with you.
![Photo of Yotam Bezalel, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9939000-bc64-44a6-be8b-49bd5d99357e/2/320x400.png)
If your soul calls for a Dynamic Therapy (emotional talks) combined with Psychodrama techniques and more... A therapy that can make a real difference in your life. You are most welcome to contact me. I am a Clinical Social Worker specialized in Trauma and Addiction Therapy and will love to be in your assistant.
If your soul calls for a Dynamic Therapy (emotional talks) combined with Psychodrama techniques and more... A therapy that can make a real difference in your life. You are most welcome to contact me. I am a Clinical Social Worker specialized in Trauma and Addiction Therapy and will love to be in your assistant.
![Photo of Dr Natalie Stott, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c9eb2d2-1f9a-4bb2-9c0e-f0d7366e2801/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Natalie Stott
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS8 (Online Only)
Also trained in EMDR, I am a HCPC registered clinical psychologist specialising in working with high achievers and professionals who experience intense anxiety and burnout, often brought about by perfectionism, imposter experience and people pleasing. You may have reached a roadblock because of the demands of your job, or because of difficult life circumstances. I can help you to regain your self confidence and work through those intense feelings of anxiety or not feeling good enough. It is possible make changes and learn to see yourself differently.
Also trained in EMDR, I am a HCPC registered clinical psychologist specialising in working with high achievers and professionals who experience intense anxiety and burnout, often brought about by perfectionism, imposter experience and people pleasing. You may have reached a roadblock because of the demands of your job, or because of difficult life circumstances. I can help you to regain your self confidence and work through those intense feelings of anxiety or not feeling good enough. It is possible make changes and learn to see yourself differently.
![Photo of Alex Ogando - Alex O | Creative Psychotherapy , MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f83b03-8903-4d1a-b23c-a94297a2fe32/1/320x400.png)
Alex O | Creative Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS37
Hi there, I'm Alex (she/her). I work with adults, teens, and children (9+) who are struggling with anxiety and depression, and are finding that their energy for life, confidence, and self-esteem is diminishing. You might be spending a lot of time alone despite wanting to be connected to others, avoiding work or school due to fear of harsh judgment or bullying, having lots of intrusive or unwelcome thoughts, and/or engaging in self-harm or self-sabotaging behaviour as a means of coping with overwhelming feelings. You may also have experienced something traumatic or deeply painful which you want to explore safely with a professional.
Hi there, I'm Alex (she/her). I work with adults, teens, and children (9+) who are struggling with anxiety and depression, and are finding that their energy for life, confidence, and self-esteem is diminishing. You might be spending a lot of time alone despite wanting to be connected to others, avoiding work or school due to fear of harsh judgment or bullying, having lots of intrusive or unwelcome thoughts, and/or engaging in self-harm or self-sabotaging behaviour as a means of coping with overwhelming feelings. You may also have experienced something traumatic or deeply painful which you want to explore safely with a professional.
![Photo of Kristelle Lynne Haslam, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54c0794d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with both individuals and couples. As an individual, some sudden event may have thrown you into crisis and challenged your ability to cope. This might include, a difficulty in a relationship; a loss/bereavement of some kind; or a change that has resulted in stress/anxiety and a feeling of being destabilised. Alternatively you may be suffering from a more general, on-going struggle to see any direction or purpose. A feeling of being disconnected from yourself and others and of there being very little enjoyment in your life.
I work with both individuals and couples. As an individual, some sudden event may have thrown you into crisis and challenged your ability to cope. This might include, a difficulty in a relationship; a loss/bereavement of some kind; or a change that has resulted in stress/anxiety and a feeling of being destabilised. Alternatively you may be suffering from a more general, on-going struggle to see any direction or purpose. A feeling of being disconnected from yourself and others and of there being very little enjoyment in your life.
See more therapy options for Bristol
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Bristol
700+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in Bristol who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Self Esteem |
84% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Stress |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | AXA PPP |
62% | Aviva |
49% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Bristol see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
27% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in 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.