Cost of a therapist in the UK

How Much Does Therapy Cost In The UK?

Certain psychological interventions are effective for many mental health and wellbeing issues. However, the cost of therapy services varies greatly. Check eligibility for free mental health services if it’s going to be tough to fund private help.

Here are some factors that determine the price of talking therapy:

• Type of therapist (see below)

• Length of treatment/intervention. Some talking therapies require a long-term commitment.

• Geographical location (incl. online therapy vs in person)

• Group (e.g., family therapist, couples therapy) vs individual therapy

The main professional groups offering psychological interventions are:

• Clinical Psychologists

• Counselling Psychologists

• Counsellors

• Psychotherapists

• Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWP) & High-Intensity Therapists (HIT)

These groups differ in cost, but also in their training (amount and skills covered), ‘models’ of therapy used (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy- CBT, Mindfulness), philosophy and style.

Sessions are usually 30-60 mins in duration. Cost generally ranges from £40 to £150. A longer and more expensive assessment appointment may be required. Prices vary considerably between groups:

• Clinical Psychologists £100-£180

• Counselling Psychologists £80-£150

• Counsellors & Psychotherapists £40 to £80

• PWP & HIT mostly operate within the NHS, but some HIT work privately at approximately £80

Some practitioners charge on a sliding scale, so it always pays to ask if reduced fees are offered before you book an appointment.

Therapy for you

Learn more about professions providing therapy via the links above. Here is some other useful information:

Therapy models

I use several models in my work with clients:

• The CBT approach and cost involved

• An introduction to Mindfulness

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

The nuts and bolts of therapy

Unsure about what to expect with talking therapies? These articles may help:

• What is therapy?

• How to start therapy

• What you can/can’t say to a therapist

• How to spot bad therapy

• Psychiatrist vs psychologist

My website has lots of other articles on various psychological issues.

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We are Coaching & Clinical Psychologists with extensive experience helping people conquer a range of wellbeing and performance issues at home and in the workplace. Read more about our work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.

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