How much does therapy cost in the UK? A practical guide

One of the first things people want to know about therapy is what it will cost. It's a fair question, and it isn't always easy to get a straight answer, so here's a simple guide.

In the UK, private counselling and psychotherapy usually costs somewhere between £40 and £100 or more per session. The price depends on the therapist's experience and qualifications, where they're based, and the type of therapy. Specialist approaches such as EMDR often cost a little more, because they need extra training and sessions tend to be longer.

A few things affect the price. Accreditation with a professional body such as the BACP or UKCP usually means a higher level of training and ongoing supervision. Therapists in cities often charge more than those in smaller towns. And some therapy is time-limited, with a set number of sessions, while some is open-ended.

It helps to think about what you're paying for. It isn't just an hour of someone's time, but their training, their supervision and, most importantly, how well you work together. The right therapist at a slightly higher fee is usually better value than the wrong one at a lower fee.

My own fees are on the Fees page.