From search to first session, step by step.
Starting therapy can feel like a lot. This page walks you through what to actually do — searching, choosing, contacting, that first session — so you know what's coming.
No fuss, no fluff.
Searching to first message: about ten minutes. From there it's between you and the counsellor.
Search by what matters
Your postcode, what you'd like help with, online or in-person. Filter by language, gender, fee range — anything you care about.
Read profiles, in their words
Every counsellor writes their own bio. You see how they think, what they specialise in, their fees, their availability. Real profiles, not marketing.
Message directly
Send an enquiry through their profile — it lands in their inbox. Most counsellors offer a free 15-minute call to feel out the fit before booking.
Counselling isn't one thing.
Different approaches suit different concerns. Counsellor profiles describe which they use — you don't need to memorise these.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Practical and structured. Links thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Often 6–12 sessions for anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias.
Person-Centred
Non-directive. The counsellor follows your lead rather than pushing an agenda. Builds self-understanding over time.
Psychodynamic
Explores how early experiences and unconscious patterns shape you now. Tends to be longer-term, deeper work.
Integrative
Combines several approaches based on what suits you. Many UK counsellors work this way — drawing on whatever's most useful.
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. A specific, evidence-based therapy for trauma and PTSD.
Couples & relationships
Structured space for partners to be heard and work through patterns. Open to all relationship configurations.
What actually happens when you start.
Most first sessions are mostly a conversation. The counsellor will want to understand what's brought you to therapy, what you'd like to work on, plus practical bits — frequency, fees, how they handle missed sessions.
You don't need to prepare anything. Counsellors are used to people not knowing where to start — that's part of the work.
By the end you'll have a sense of whether this person feels like a good fit. There's no obligation to continue. Many people see two or three counsellors before settling — that's normal, not awkward.
If something feels off, you can always say. A good counsellor welcomes that conversation; it's often more useful than pretending.
Things people ask before starting.
If your question isn't here, send a message and we'll add it.
How much does counselling cost?
UK private counselling typically runs £40–£100 per 50-minute session, depending on location and experience. Many counsellors offer concessions (reduced rates) for students, those on benefits, or low income. Fees are listed clearly on every profile.
How many sessions will I need?
It varies a lot. Short-term CBT-style work is often 6–12 sessions. Open-ended psychodynamic or integrative work might run for months or years. You'll discuss this with your counsellor in the first session — there's no fixed answer.
Will my counsellor judge me?
No. UK counsellors are bound by their professional body's ethical framework, which explicitly prohibits judgement based on background, beliefs, lifestyle, or anything you share. If you've worried about this — please don't. It's not how this works.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes, with two specific exceptions: if there's a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or if a court orders disclosure. Counsellors also discuss anonymised cases with their clinical supervisors. They'll explain the limits in your first session.
What if I don't click with the first counsellor?
Try someone else. The relationship matters more than any specific technique — if it doesn't feel right after two or three sessions, it's normal to look for a better fit. Most people see a few counsellors before settling.
Can I see a counsellor online?
Yes — most counsellors here offer online sessions via secure video. Some offer phone sessions too. Filter by session type to see only counsellors who work online, in person, or both.
What if I can't afford private counselling?
NHS counselling is free through your GP (waiting lists vary). Charities like Mind, Samaritans, and local mental health services often offer low-cost or free counselling. Some counsellors here also offer reduced rates — filter by 'concessions available'.
Now you know. Let's find someone.
Search 1,200+ qualified UK counsellors by location, specialty, and availability. Free to use, no signup.