mental health

How Much Does Therapy Cost In The UK?

We do a deep dive into the cost of therapy within the UK and the factors that influence it.
By:
Daniel Botcherby (he/him)
May 1, 2023

According to the British Psychological Society (BPS), visiting a clinical or counselling psychologist can cost between £120 and $180 a session (50-60 minutes). 

Various variables can influence the cost of therapy, including where you reside and the amount of training and expertise of your psychologist.

The most straightforward answer is that the price of therapy in the UK varies. 

Therapy does not immediately enhance the quality of your life. In most cases, therapy is a long-term endeavour that requires commitment and perseverance. This is why getting a good idea of the treatment expenses before you begin is important.

The common perception about therapy in the UK is that it is unreasonably expensive. Most people have no idea what the costs are.

It is time to learn about the costs of therapy in the UK!

What Is Therapy And How Does It Work?

Therapy is a process that helps people with mental health issues to improve their mental state.

Therapy treats various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, etc. can be done in person, over the phone, or online. It can also be done in groups or one-on-one. 

The length of therapy varies depending on the severity of the problem and how long it takes to recover from it.

A therapist works with an individual or a group of individuals to identify their needs, goals, and current state of mind. The therapist will then help these individuals overcome their obstacles, achieve their goals, and achieve a healthier mental state.  

Therapy is also used as a form of prevention for those at risk of developing mental problems.

What Are The Different Types Of Therapy Available To Treat Mental Illness?

Therapy uses psychological methods to help people change or cope with problems, typically in a clinical setting.

There are many types of therapy to treat mental illness. For example, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychotherapy, psychoanalytic therapy, and mental health counselling

The most common type of therapy is cognitive behavioural therapy.

Cognitive behavioural therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps people with mental illness by changing their thoughts and behaviours.

It can treat depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. 

People with mental illness are often discouraged from seeking help due to the stigma attached to the disorder. However, many people have found that therapy can be very helpful. It can help them cope with their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.

How Much Does Therapy Cost In The UK?

There is a wide range of counselling costs in the UK, which varies depending on the type of therapy, therapist's qualifications, geographical location, and whether or not you need a referral from your GP before you can start your treatment.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can cost around £50 per session. Psychotherapy can cost around £80 per session, while Psychoanalytic Therapy costs around £150.

Most people think of a clinical psychologist as having a three-year clinical psychology certificate. A doctorate in clinical psychology requires a four-year bachelor's degree in psychology.

On the other hand, a psychologist has a far deeper grasp of the mind (and all its marvellous workings) and so can get you to where you need to go a lot quicker than a counsellor or psychotherapist.

One-on-one sessions with a professional are called "individual therapy," as opposed to group sessions, which are attended by several individuals simultaneously.

Group treatment is less costly than individual therapy. It can cost around 25 to 30 Pounds.

You may choose individual counselling if you are apprehensive about beginning therapy and want to speak to someone in a more private setting. 

Individual sessions often last 50 minutes, whereas group sessions generally run 90 minutes to accommodate everyone.

What Factors Influence The Wide Range Of Therapeutic Costs?

One of the challenges in the UK is that the term therapist is not a protected term in the same way that psychiatrist is. Anyone may promote themselves as a psychotherapist or counsellor, which may come as a shock to some.

Unlike many other professions, such as doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists, counselling and psychotherapy have no regulating authority. 

It is important to verify the credentials of any potential Counsellor, Psychotherapist, or Psychologist before hiring them.

Any professional worth their salt will mention their education on their website or directory entry. You can always call them and inquire about the matter if it doesn't.

Conclusion

Now you know the average cost of a counsellor or therapist in the United Kingdom. 

More money is required for the mental health care system. According to the NHS, there has been an investment of up to £1.4 billion in the financing, and 120,000 individuals have received better specialised mental health care over the last three years.

Despite this, many individuals remain on waiting lists, are given Skype or Zoom sessions instead of face-to-face appointments, and struggle to have their opinions heard in the process.

FAQs

How do people in the United Kingdom afford therapy?

You may have to contact charitable organisations. For example, local Mind branches provide services such as talking therapies, crisis helplines, drop-in centres, employment and training programs, counselling, and befriending.

Is private therapy in the UK expensive?

Private counsellors in the UK typically charge between £40 and £150 per session. A session can last anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the circumstances, with an average of around 50 minutes.

Is paying for therapy worth it?

It can help you change the behaviours and emotions harming your mental health. It also leads to fewer disabilities and sick days, which may be enough to cover the actual cost for some people. Many people believe that the money they spend on therapy is well spent.

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