How Much Does Private Therapy Cost in the UK?

Private therapy can be life-changing, but it can also feel expensive and difficult to understand. One therapist may charge £45 per session, another £80, another £120, and a clinical psychologist or specialist trauma therapist may cost more. Some offer a free initial call, some charge for assessments, some work weekly, and some suggest longer-term therapy that can add up over months.

So how much does private therapy actually cost in the UK? The simple answer is that many private counselling and therapy sessions fall somewhere around £40 to £100 per session, with higher fees common in London, specialist clinics and private psychology services. But the real cost depends on the type of professional you see, the length of each session, how often you attend, whether you need specialist therapy, and whether your insurance or employer pays for any of it.

This guide explains typical private therapy costs in the UK, what affects the price, how therapy compares with psychiatry, whether NHS therapy is free, what hidden costs to ask about, and how to choose therapy that is safe, affordable and suitable for your needs.

Typical private therapy costs in the UK

Private therapy prices vary, but a common range for individual therapy in the UK is around £40 to £100 per 50-minute session. Some therapists charge less, especially if they are newly qualified, training under supervision, based outside major cities, or offering concessionary rates. Others charge more, especially in London, specialist private clinics, or when the therapy is provided by a clinical psychologist, counselling psychologist or highly experienced specialist.

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy says that more than half of therapists listed in its directory advertise costs between £40 and £60 per session. This is a helpful starting point, but it does not capture the whole market. In many cities, private therapy is commonly around £60 to £90 per session. In London, it is not unusual to see fees of £80 to £120 or more, especially for experienced therapists, psychologists or specialist clinics.

Some private psychology services may cost significantly more. A recent report in the UK press highlighted rising private psychology costs, with some figures suggesting that a course of 12 sessions can cost well over £1,000. This does not mean every therapist charges that much, but it shows why it is important to ask about total cost, not just the first appointment.

Private therapy price examples

The table below gives a broad guide. These are not fixed prices, and actual fees vary by provider, region, experience and therapy type.

Type of support	Typical private cost	Notes
Counselling	About £40 to £80 per session	Often one of the more affordable private therapy options.
Psychotherapy	About £50 to £100+ per session	May be short-term or longer-term depending on the approach.
CBT	About £60 to £120 per session	Often structured and goal-focused; may be available through NHS Talking Therapies.
EMDR therapy	About £70 to £130+ per session	Usually used for trauma and PTSD; fees vary by training and experience.
Clinical psychologist	About £90 to £180+ per session	Often more expensive because of advanced clinical training and specialist assessment skills.
Couples therapy	About £70 to £150+ per session	Sessions may be longer than individual therapy.
Child or adolescent therapy	About £60 to £150+ per session	May involve parent sessions, school liaison or reports.
Online therapy	About £40 to £100 per session	Sometimes slightly cheaper, but not always.

Fees at specialist private mental health clinics can be higher, especially if therapy is part of a wider package involving psychiatric review, assessment, medication, family work or reports.

How session length affects cost

Many private therapy sessions last around 50 minutes. Some are 45 minutes, some are 60 minutes, and some specialist sessions may be longer. Couples therapy, family therapy, EMDR sessions and psychological assessments may sometimes be 75 to 90 minutes or more.

This matters because a £90 session is not always directly comparable with another £90 session. One may be 50 minutes, another may be 75 minutes. One may include preparation and notes, while another may charge separately for reports or letters.

Before booking, ask:

• How long is each session?
• Is the first appointment longer than later sessions?
• Are written summaries, reports or letters included?
• Are sessions online, in person or either?
• Is the fee the same for evening or weekend appointments?

How much does weekly therapy cost per month?

Many people think about the cost per session, but the monthly cost is often more useful. If you attend weekly, the cost adds up quickly.

Session fee	Approximate monthly cost if weekly	Approximate cost for 12 sessions
£40	About £160 to £200	£480
£60	About £240 to £300	£720
£80	About £320 to £400	£960
£100	About £400 to £500	£1,200
£130	About £520 to £650	£1,560
£160	About £640 to £800	£1,920

The monthly figure can vary because some months contain four weekly sessions and others contain five. If you are budgeting, it is safer to think in terms of 12 sessions, 24 sessions or a monthly average rather than one appointment at a time.

What affects the cost of private therapy?

Therapy prices are not random. Several factors affect what a therapist or clinic charges.

Location

Therapy in London, central Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol, Oxford, Cambridge and other high-cost areas may be more expensive than therapy in smaller towns. This is partly because room rental, insurance, living costs and demand are higher.

Online therapy can sometimes reduce location-based costs, but not always. Many experienced therapists charge the same fee online and in person because the clinical time and responsibility are the same.

Training and experience

A newly qualified counsellor may charge less than a highly experienced psychotherapist, clinical psychologist or specialist trauma therapist. This does not automatically mean the more expensive person is better for your situation, but specialist training can affect cost.

For example, a therapist with advanced training in EMDR, eating disorders, OCD, complex trauma, child therapy or neurodiversity may charge more than a general counsellor.

Type of professional

Different professionals have different training routes and costs. A counsellor may be more affordable than a clinical psychologist. A psychiatrist is usually more expensive than therapy because psychiatry is a medical specialty, but a psychiatrist appointment is not the same thing as weekly therapy.

If you are unsure who you need, read our guide to psychiatrist vs psychologist vs therapist.

Therapy type

Some therapies are more specialist or require additional training. CBT, EMDR, DBT-informed therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, trauma therapy and psychological assessment may cost more than general counselling.

That does not mean one is always better. The right therapy depends on your symptoms, goals, risk level and preferences.

Clinic setting

A therapist working independently from a modest office or online may charge less than a private clinic with reception staff, central premises, clinical governance systems, insurance billing and a wider team.

A clinic may be more expensive, but it may also offer easier access to different professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and assessment services. The key is whether the extra cost gives you something useful, not just a more polished website.

Session frequency

Weekly therapy is common, but some people attend fortnightly, monthly or in blocks. Weekly sessions can help maintain momentum, especially early in therapy, but they are more expensive. Fortnightly therapy may be more affordable, although it may not suit every issue.

Ask the therapist what frequency they recommend and why. A good therapist should be able to discuss this without pressuring you.

Is private therapy cheaper online?

Sometimes, but not always. Online therapy may reduce travel time and may be easier to fit around work, childcare or mobility needs. Some online-only therapists charge lower fees because they do not rent a therapy room. Others charge the same as in-person therapy because the clinical work, training and responsibility are unchanged.

Online therapy can work well for many people with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship problems, low self-esteem or life transitions. It may be less suitable if you do not have a private space, are at high risk, need physical observations, have severe symptoms, or would feel safer in person.

For more detail, see our guide to online therapy and counselling in the UK.

Is NHS therapy free?

Yes. NHS therapy is free at the point of use if you are eligible and access it through the NHS. In England, adults can often self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression. These services may offer support such as guided self-help, CBT and other evidence-based psychological therapies.

NHS therapy is an important option, especially if cost is a barrier. However, the type of therapy, number of sessions, waiting time and eligibility can vary by area and clinical need. Some people find NHS therapy very helpful. Others choose private therapy because they want faster access, longer-term work, a particular therapist, evening appointments, a specialist approach or more choice.

You can read more in our guides to how to access mental health services in the UK, self-referring to mental health services and NHS, private and charity mental health support options.

Private therapy vs private psychiatry costs

Private therapy and private psychiatry are often confused, but they are different services.

Private therapy usually means regular talking therapy with a counsellor, psychotherapist, psychologist, CBT therapist or another therapy professional. It may cost around £40 to £120 per session depending on the provider and setting.

Private psychiatry is medical mental health care. A private psychiatrist is a doctor who can assess, diagnose, prescribe medication and review complex symptoms. Initial psychiatric assessments are usually more expensive than therapy sessions and may cost several hundred pounds. Follow-up psychiatric appointments are often shorter and less expensive than the first assessment, but still usually cost more than standard therapy.

You might need a therapist if you want regular psychological support. You might need a psychiatrist if you need diagnosis, medication, a complex review, ADHD medication, bipolar disorder assessment, severe depression review, psychosis assessment or a second opinion about psychiatric treatment.

Some people need both. For example, someone may see a psychiatrist for medication and a therapist for weekly support.

Does private health insurance cover therapy?

Some private medical insurance policies cover mental health treatment, but cover varies. Some policies include a set number of therapy sessions. Others require a GP referral, insurer authorisation or use of an approved therapist or clinic. Some policies exclude pre-existing conditions, ADHD assessments, autism assessments, addiction treatment, couples therapy or long-term psychotherapy.

If you have insurance, contact your insurer before booking therapy. Ask:

• Is mental health treatment included?
• Do I need a GP referral?
• Do I need pre-authorisation?
• Do I have to use an approved therapist or clinic?
• How many sessions are covered?
• Is there an excess?
• Are online sessions covered?
• Are psychiatric appointments covered?
• Are ADHD, autism, trauma, eating disorders or addiction excluded?
• Will I pay upfront and claim back, or will the clinic invoice the insurer?

For wider context, see our guides to private medical insurance in the UK, what private health insurance actually covers and pre-existing conditions and health insurance.

Can employers pay for therapy?

Sometimes. Some employers offer an Employee Assistance Programme, often called an EAP. This may include a small number of counselling sessions, a helpline, wellbeing support or referral to therapy. Some workplaces also provide private medical insurance that includes mental health cover.

EAP support can be useful, especially for stress, work worries, grief, relationship difficulties or early support. However, the number of sessions may be limited. If you need longer-term therapy, specialist trauma therapy, psychiatric assessment or more complex support, you may need a different route.

If you are worried about privacy, ask how confidentiality works. A good EAP or therapy provider should explain what is shared with your employer and what remains private. Usually, employers should not receive detailed therapy content, but there may be limits if there is risk of serious harm.

Are there low-cost private therapy options?

Yes. If standard private fees are too expensive, there may be lower-cost options.

Concessionary rates

Some therapists offer reduced fees for students, people on low incomes, carers, unemployed people or people receiving benefits. These places may be limited, so ask early.

Training clinics

Some counselling and psychotherapy training organisations offer lower-cost therapy with trainee therapists who are supervised by experienced professionals. This can be a good option for some people, but ask about supervision, suitability, confidentiality and what happens if your needs are too complex for the service.

Charities

Some charities provide free or low-cost counselling for specific issues such as bereavement, domestic abuse, addiction, trauma, young people, carers, cancer support, pregnancy loss or long-term illness.

University services

Students may be able to access counselling through their university. Availability and session numbers vary.

NHS Talking Therapies

If you are in England and have anxiety or depression symptoms, NHS Talking Therapies may be available without payment. You may be able to self-refer online.

Low-cost therapy can be very helpful, but it should still be safe. Check who provides the therapy, what training they have, how they are supervised and what happens if symptoms worsen.

What hidden costs should you ask about?

Most therapy is charged per session, but there may be extra costs depending on the provider.

Ask about:

• initial consultation fees;
• cancellation fees;
• missed appointment charges;
• longer assessment sessions;
• written reports;
• letters to GPs, schools, employers or insurers;
• review appointments;
• couples or family session fees;
• insurance admin charges;
• fees for late payment;
• whether fees increase after a certain date.

Cancellation policies matter. Some therapists require 24 hours’ notice, others 48 hours or a week. If you cancel late, you may still be charged the full fee. This is common in private therapy because the time has been reserved for you.

How many therapy sessions will you need?

There is no single answer. Some people benefit from a short course of 6 to 12 sessions. Others need longer-term therapy over several months or more. The number of sessions depends on the issue, therapy type, goals, severity, risk, previous therapy, support outside therapy and what you want to achieve.

Shorter-term therapy may suit:

• a specific anxiety problem;
• work stress;
• a recent life event;
• mild to moderate depression;
• sleep-related worry;
• coping strategies during a difficult period;
• structured CBT goals.

Longer-term therapy may be more appropriate for:

• complex trauma;
• long-standing relationship patterns;
• recurrent depression;
• emotional regulation difficulties;
• personality-related difficulties;
• childhood abuse or neglect;
• eating disorder recovery;
• complex grief;
• deep-rooted low self-esteem.

Ask the therapist how they review progress. Therapy should not continue indefinitely without reflection. You should understand what you are working on, whether it is helping, and whether the approach still makes sense.

Is more expensive therapy always better?

No. A higher fee does not automatically mean better therapy. A £120 therapist is not automatically better than a £60 therapist. The right fit depends on training, experience, specialism, personal connection, safety, ethics and whether the approach suits your needs.

However, very low-cost therapy should also be checked carefully. Lower fees may be perfectly legitimate, especially for trainee therapists, charities, concessions or online therapy. But you should still ask about qualifications, supervision, registration and risk management.

Good therapy should feel professional, boundaried and clear. You should know what you are paying for, how confidentiality works, what happens if you feel worse, and how to raise concerns.

How to check if a therapist is qualified

In the UK, counselling and psychotherapy titles are not regulated in exactly the same way as doctors or nurses. This makes it especially important to check professional registration.

You can look for therapists through recognised professional directories, such as the BACP therapist directory or the UKCP therapist directory. Clinical psychologists and counselling psychologists should usually be checked on the HCPC register.

Before booking, ask:

• What are your qualifications?
• Are you registered or accredited?
• Do you have experience with my issue?
• What therapy approach do you use?
• Do you receive clinical supervision?
• What happens if I feel worse?
• Do you work with my GP if needed?
• What are your fees and cancellation terms?

If a therapist avoids basic questions about training, registration or supervision, consider looking elsewhere.

When therapy alone may not be enough

Private therapy can be helpful, but it is not always the only support needed. You may need GP or psychiatric input if symptoms are severe, risky, unusual or linked to medication or physical health.

Consider speaking to a GP, psychiatrist or urgent service if:

• you have thoughts of harming yourself;
• you feel unable to stay safe;
• you are hearing voices or seeing things others do not;
• you have extreme mood highs or possible mania;
• you are not eating or drinking enough;
• you are misusing alcohol or drugs to cope;
• you have severe panic symptoms with chest pain or breathlessness;
• you are taking psychiatric medication and having side effects;
• you may need ADHD medication or specialist diagnosis;
• your symptoms are worsening despite therapy.

Therapy and medication are not opposites. Many people benefit from both. Others prefer therapy alone. The safest choice depends on your symptoms, risk, history and goals.

How to budget for private therapy

If you are paying yourself, it helps to plan before you start. Therapy can become emotionally important, and stopping suddenly because of cost can feel difficult.

Before beginning, think about:

• how much you can afford per month;
• whether weekly or fortnightly sessions are realistic;
• whether you need a low-cost or concessionary place;
• whether your employer or insurer can help;
• whether you want a short-term goal or open-ended therapy;
• how often you will review progress;
• what you will do if costs become difficult.

You can say to a therapist: “I can afford around six sessions at the moment. Can we work with that?” A good therapist should be able to discuss realistic goals within your budget or suggest other options if they are not the right fit.

Questions to ask before paying for therapy

• How much is each session?
• How long is each session?
• Is the first appointment the same price?
• Do you offer concessions?
• How often do you recommend sessions?
• How many sessions might I need?
• Do you offer online sessions?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Are reports or letters extra?
• Do you work with insurance?
• What qualifications and registration do you have?
• What happens if I feel worse?
• Can you liaise with my GP if needed?

Final thoughts

Private therapy in the UK commonly costs somewhere around £40 to £100 per session, but the real cost depends on who you see, where they are based, what type of therapy you need and how long you continue. A few sessions may cost a few hundred pounds. Longer-term weekly therapy can cost thousands over a year.

That does not mean private therapy is not worth it. For many people, timely therapy can improve relationships, work, confidence, sleep, anxiety, mood and quality of life. But it should be chosen carefully, with clear information about fees, qualifications, therapy type and what happens if your needs change.

If cost is a barrier, consider NHS Talking Therapies, charities, training clinics, workplace support, insurance, concessionary rates or fortnightly sessions. If symptoms are severe or urgent, do not wait for affordable private therapy before seeking urgent help.

The best therapy is not simply the cheapest or the most expensive. It is therapy that is safe, appropriate, affordable enough to continue, and provided by someone qualified to help with your needs.

Frequently asked questions

How much does private therapy cost in the UK?

Many private therapy sessions in the UK cost around £40 to £100 per session. Some therapists charge less, while clinical psychologists, specialist therapists, couples therapists and London-based services may charge more.

How much does therapy cost per month?

If you attend weekly, therapy at £60 per session may cost around £240 to £300 per month, depending on the number of sessions that month. At £100 per session, weekly therapy may cost around £400 to £500 per month.

Is NHS therapy free?

Yes. NHS therapy is free at the point of use if you access it through NHS services. In England, adults can often self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression.

Why is private therapy expensive?

Fees reflect clinical time, training, supervision, insurance, room rental, admin, professional registration, ongoing development and demand. Specialist training, central locations and private clinic settings can increase costs.

Is online therapy cheaper?

Sometimes, but not always. Some online therapists charge lower fees because they have fewer room costs. Others charge the same because the clinical work and responsibility are the same.

Does private health insurance cover therapy?

Some policies cover therapy, but the details vary. You may need a GP referral, insurer authorisation or an approved provider. Some policies limit the number of sessions or exclude pre-existing conditions and certain assessments.

Can I get low-cost therapy in the UK?

Yes. Options may include NHS Talking Therapies, charities, training clinics, university counselling, employer support and therapists who offer concessionary rates.

How many therapy sessions will I need?

Some people benefit from 6 to 12 sessions. Others need longer-term therapy over months or more. It depends on the issue, goals, severity, therapy type and progress.

Is a clinical psychologist more expensive than a counsellor?

Often, yes. Clinical psychologists usually have advanced doctoral-level training and may charge more than counsellors. However, the best choice depends on your needs, not just the title.

Can a therapist prescribe medication?

Most therapists, counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists do not prescribe medication. Medication is usually prescribed by a GP, psychiatrist or another qualified prescriber.

Should I choose the cheapest therapist?

Not necessarily. Affordability matters, but you should also check qualifications, registration, experience, supervision and whether the therapist is suitable for your issue.

What should I ask before booking private therapy?

Ask about fees, session length, cancellation policy, qualifications, professional registration, experience with your issue, therapy approach, number of sessions, online options and what happens if you feel worse.