How Much Does Therapy Cost in the UK? A Guide to Therapy Prices & and Affordable Options

When considering counselling or psychotherapy, one of the most common concerns is cost. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, or loss, knowing what to expect financially can help you make an informed decision about your mental health support. Prices for therapy in the UK vary depending on the type of service you choose. This article breaks down the average cost of therapy, explores the pros and cons of different options, and introduces the option of  a low-cost therapy alternative: UK Counselling Network.

Average Therapy Costs Across the UK

Private Therapy

• Typical cost: £50 to £200+ per session
• Waiting time: Often 1–2 weeks or less
• Pros: Flexibility in choosing a therapist, modality, and appointment times
• Cons: High costs can limit long-term affordability

Private therapy is widely available and offers quick access, but costs can add up quickly, especially if attending weekly sessions.

NHS Therapy

• Cost: Free
• Waiting time: Varies significantly – often 6 weeks to several months
• Pros: No cost; access to trained professionals
• Cons: Limited session numbers; less choice in therapist or approach

NHS Talking Therapies (previously IAPT) provide free, evidence-based mental health support. However, demand is high, and services may be restricted to certain types of therapy (e.g., CBT) for mild to moderate conditions.

Charitable or Community-Based Counselling

• Typical cost: £20 to £50 per session (some offer sliding scales or donation-based models)
• Waiting time: Typically 2 to 8 weeks
• Pros: Affordable; some flexibility
• Cons: Availability varies depending on location and funding

Some charities and non-profits offer affordable counselling and therapy, though access may depend on your location or specific eligibility criteria.

UK Counselling Network: High-Quality Therapy from Just £28

We are an award-winning social enterprise. We believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone, regardless of income or background.

Our mission is to break down barriers to therapy by offering:

• Low-cost counselling from £28 per session
•  This service is provided by talented trainee therapists who are near the end of their clinical training. They are supervised, fully insured, and work to professional standards
• Virtually no waiting times and flexible appointment options

Support for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, anger, bereavement, shame or guilt,low self-esteem, and much more.

How to Access Therapy at UK Counselling Network

Getting started is simple. You are just three steps away from accessing affordable support:

1. Go to the self-referral booking form
2. Choose the therapy service you are interested in
3. Fill out the referral form to book a free initial telephone assessment

Once your referral is submitted, our team will guide you through the next steps to begin cost-effective therapy with the right counsellor for your needs.

Type of Therapy	Average Cost (per session)	Waiting Time	Suitable For
Private Therapy	£50 – £100+	1–2 weeks	Flexible, fast access
NHS Therapy	Free	6 weeks to several months	Mild to moderate issues (limited availability)
Charity/Community Services	£20 – £40	2–8 weeks	Local, low-cost support
UK Counselling Network	From £28	No waiting list	Affordable, accessible, high-quality care

What Does a Therapy Session Include?

At UK Counselling Network, a standard therapy session typically includes:

• A 50-minute one-to-one session with a qualified or trainee therapist
• The option to choose remote (online or telephone) or face-to-face sessions, depending on availability – remove
• Weekly or biweekly scheduling, depending on your needs and goals (remove)
• Ongoing support tailored to your emotional and mental health challenges

All therapists at UKCN are professionally trained, insured, and supervised according to UK ethical standards such as BACP and UKCP.

Why Choose UK Counselling Network?

UK Counselling Network offers a middle ground between expensive private therapy and overstretched public services.

We provide:

• Affordable pricing from £28 per session
• A commitment to inclusive, non-discriminatory practice
• Specialist support for a wide range of emotional difficulties
• A fast and simple referral process without the need for a GP referral
  

Our approach is client-centred, compassionate, and confidential. We work with individuals from all walks of life – whether you’re seeking therapy for the first time or returning after a break.

Final Thoughts: Therapy Can Be Affordable and Accessible

Therapy is a valuable investment in your mental health and personal growth. While the cost of private therapy can be a barrier for many, it’s important to know that affordable, high-quality counselling options do exist.

At UK Counselling Network, we’re here to ensure that professional mental health support is within reach – not just for a few, but for everyone.

Take the First Step Today

Visit our website to begin your therapy journey in three simple steps:

1. Go to the Self-Referral Booking Form
2. Choose your preferred therapy service
3. Complete the referral to schedule your free telephone assessment

For more information, visit the UK Counselling Network and explore our range of services and pricing.