How Much Does a Therapist Cost UK?

Caring for your mind shouldn’t feel like a luxury. So, how much does a therapist cost UK in 2025? This year, more people than ever are reaching out for therapy — to talk, heal, and find real support. But before booking your first session, it’s completely natural to ask, ‘How much will it actually cost?’

On average, a private therapy session in the UK costs about £129 in 2025, with most sessions ranging from £50 to £138. In London, sessions are higher, usually between £70 and £173. NHS Talking Therapies are free, though waiting times can vary depending on where you live.

Let’s make it simple so you can find support that fits your life and budget.

What Is the Typical Hourly Rate for a Therapist in the UK?

Most private therapy sessions in the UK last around 50 minutes. They usually cost around £60 to £100 nationally. Prices can vary depending on where you live and the therapist’s experience. For example, outside London, many therapists charge £50 to £90 per session. In London, specialists or highly experienced therapists often charge £100 or more.

These numbers show what people typically pay and give a good sense of what to expect when budgeting for therapy.

How Much Do Private Counsellors and Psychologists Charge Per Session?

When considering a therapist’s cost, the type of professional you choose can make a big difference. The cost of private therapy in the UK depends on the therapist’s type, training, and location. Generally, London sessions are usually the most expensive.

Typical session costs:

Most sessions last 50 minutes. For example, one London clinic charges £130–£140 for a 50–60 minute individual session.

Factors That Affect Price:

• Qualifications: Clinical psychologists have more training and can diagnose, so they generally charge more.
• Location: London and the South East are pricier.
• Experience & Specialisation: Therapists with niche skills or many years of experience often charge higher fees.
• Online vs In-Person: Online sessions are sometimes 10 to 20% cheaper.

How Much Does a Therapist Cost UK by Location (London vs Other Areas)?

Yes, therapy costs change depending on where you live. London is usually the most expensive. This is because living costs and office rent are higher in the capital.

Typical session costs:

Note: Specialist therapy and sessions with clinical psychologists usually cost more.

Private Psychologist Consultation Costs (2025):

Regional Differences:

• London & South East: Highest, £70 to £173 per session
  
• Northern England: £50 to £104 per session
  
• Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland: £40 to £98 per session

Other Things That Affect Cost:

• Qualifications: Clinical Psychologists charge more than counsellors.
  
• Type of Therapy: Special therapies like EMDR or Schema cost more.
  
• Low-Cost Options: Charities and training clinics can offer sessions for £25 to £50.
  
• Online Therapy: Sometimes cheaper than in-person, but London online sessions can still be high (~£158.60).

These numbers from the 2025 data show how location can affect therapy prices and help you plan your budget.

Understanding the Impact of Qualifications

Getting support for your mental health is a brilliant step. Costs can be confusing at first, but here’s the simple truth: more training and experience usually mean higher fees. Then, how do therapist qualifications affect cost?

Therapists with advanced qualifications, specialised training, or years of experience often charge higher fees, reflecting their expertise and the quality of care they provide. Those newer to the field or still completing certifications may offer lower rates. Understanding this can help you find the right therapist for your needs without overspending.

Let’s walk through it together, step by step.

First, the most affordable option: Counsellors

• What to expect: a warm, supportive space to talk things through.
• Typical fee: £40 to £70 per session.
• Best when: You’re starting out, want to explore feelings, or need a safe place to process life events.

Next, a more structured route: BABCP-accredited CBT Therapists

• What to expect: practical tools, clear goals, and homework to help you make changes.
• Typical fee: £85–£110.
• Best when: You want evidence‑based strategies for anxiety, low mood, OCD, phobias, or unhelpful thinking patterns.

Then, the highest level of training: HCPC‑registered Psychologists

• What to expect: doctorate‑level training, specialist assessment, and tailored approaches.
• Typical fee: £100 to £180+.
• Best when: You have complex needs, want a formal assessment, or need a highly specialist perspective.

Also helpful to know

• Prices vary by location (London is often higher), experience, and session length.
• Titles matter: BABCP = British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. HCPC = Health and Care Professions Council (a legal regulator).
• And remember: higher fees don’t automatically mean a “better” right fit, and approach matters most.

Then, how to choose the right fit!

• Start with your goals: Do you want space to explore or a structured plan with tools?
• Try a free discovery call: A quick chat helps you check rapport, approach, and budget.
• Trust the vibe: feeling safe and understood is key to progress.

The good news is that there are ways to save!

• Ask about concession or sliding‑scale rates (students, low income, key workers, off‑peak times).
• Check if your insurer or employer (EAP) can cover sessions.
• Consider online therapy, shorter‑term plans, or less frequent sessions.
• Explore low‑cost options: NHS Talking Therapies (self‑referral in England), charities, community services, or university clinics with supervised trainees.

So, the bottom line is to choose the level that fits your goals, comfort, and budget.

What Type of Therapy Costs More (CBT, Psychotherapy, Couples Therapy)?

If you’re wondering, how much does a therapist cost in the UK? It often depends on the type of therapy you choose! Here’s a quick, clear guide:

1. CBT (individual) — £85 to £110
   Help you spot and change unhelpful thoughts; practical tools for stress, anxiety, and low mood.

2. EMDR (individual) — £70 to £150
   Supports processing distressing memories to reduce emotional intensity; sessions can run longer.

3. Couples Therapy (London) — £90 to £180 (often £200+ at premium clinics)
   Focuses on communication, understanding, and resolving conflict; typically 60–90 minutes.

What affects the price?

• Session length (EMDR and couples often longer)
• Location (London is usually higher)
• Accreditation and experience

In short, therapies for two people (like couples therapy) or for complex trauma (like EMDR) usually cost more. A basic CBT session is often the most affordable specialist option. Also, location matters, as prices in big cities like London are almost always higher. 

Do Online Therapy Sessions Cost Less in the UK?

You’ll be happy to hear that, in most cases, yes! Online therapy usually costs about 10 to 20% less than seeing the same therapist in person.  According to research from 2025,  going online can make getting help a little easier on your wallet and simpler to fit into your day.

Quick Examples

• If an in-person CBT session costs £85–£110, the online version might be £70–£100.
  
• EMDR therapy often drops from £70–£150 in person to around £60–£135 online.
  
• Couples therapy varies — some London clinics keep prices the same, while others lower them by 10–15%.

Why Online Can Be Cheaper

Therapists don’t need to rent an office, and online sessions are easier to schedule, giving both sides more flexibility. 

When It’s Not 

Some therapists use one flat rate, and demand keeps prices high in busy places like London. Also, online platforms can take small fees that reduce savings.

Before You Book

Check what’s included — Look at session length (some online ones are a bit shorter), extras like letters or reports, the cancellation policy, and your therapist’s credentials (BABCP, BACP, UKCP, or HCPC).

So overall, when it comes to how much does a therapist cost in the UK, online therapy can be a smart way to save about 10–20%. Always confirm the price first.

What Are the Costs for NHS vs Private Therapy in the UK?

Let’s make this simple! NHS Talking Therapies are free, whether you choose face-to-face sessions or online support.

However, access can depend on where you live. In some areas, you might wait a few weeks, while in others, it can take several months due to high demand and limited availability. On the other hand, private therapy comes with faster access and more choice of therapists, but you’ll need to pay out of pocket. As mentioned earlier, prices usually range from £50 to £138 per session across the UK or £70 to £173 in London.

So, the answer depends on whether you choose free NHS care (with a wait) or private sessions (with a fee but quicker support).

Are There Sliding Scale or Low-Cost Therapies in the UK?

Yes, and that’s really good news if you’re on a budget! Many therapists and organisations offer sliding-scale sessions. It means the price changes depending on what you can afford. These sessions usually cost around £30 to £81 each.

If that still feels too high, don’t worry! Some charities and trainee counsellors (who are fully supervised) offer sessions starting from £15. Also, many therapy websites list counsellors who offer cheaper or sliding-scale sessions.

And here’s a nice bonus: online therapy is often 10 to 20% cheaper, so it’s a great way to keep costs lower while still getting the help you need.

How Often Do People Pay Subscription or Package Fees for Therapy?

More and more people are now choosing therapy packages or subscriptions instead of paying per session. This trend has grown with online therapy platforms and larger private clinics across the UK.

These plans can make therapy feel more affordable because you often get a discount for booking several sessions in advance or paying monthly. 

1. Subscriptions and Bundles are Growing in 

• Online platforms: Many now use a weekly or monthly subscription model. In the UK, prices usually range from £45 to £70 per week, billed monthly. It helps make costs easier to plan instead of paying for each session separately.
• Private clinics: Some therapists offer bundle deals, such as 6 sessions upfront, which supports steady progress and builds commitment.

2. How Much You Can Save

When you choose a package or subscription, you usually pay 10 to 20% less than the single-session price. It’s a little reward for sticking with your therapy journey.

3. Couples and Relationship Therapy

Couples therapy often costs more per session, especially in London. A single session usually costs between £90 and £180, but package deals can make it cheaper. For example, some clinics charge around £170 to £185 per session instead of over £200 for one-off bookings.

In short, packages and subscriptions are a budget-friendly way to stay on track and keep therapy easy to manage.

How Much Do Specialised Therapists (SEN, Trauma, EMDR) Charge?

Therapy prices can be confusing. First, see what each type usually costs. Next, use the tips to choose what fits your budget.

What each type usually costs

• EMDR (for trauma) — £70 to £150 per session (often 60–90 minutes). Helps you process upsetting memories. Some online EMDR starts at £55 to £70.
• Trauma-focused Clinical Psychologist (London) — £140 to £200+ for 50 to 60 minutes. Very highly trained experts for complex trauma. London prices are higher.
• SEN therapy (Special Educational Needs) — £100 to £160. Support for children with autism or ADHD. Reports and full assessments cost extra and can be much more.
• Premium Central London clinics — £200 to £500. Senior specialists and top locations cost the most. Trauma “intensives” can be £600–£1,200 per day, or several thousand for 3–5 days.

Why prices change

• Training and experience (more training usually means a higher fee)
• Location (London and big cities cost more)
• Session length (longer sessions cost more)

Ways to save!

• Try online sessions; they are often 10–20% cheaper with the same therapist
• Ask about packages or subscriptions to lower the per‑session price
• Look for trainee counsellors or charities from £15 to £25
• Use NHS Talking Therapies (England); it’s free for anxiety and depression

What Extras Can Add to Therapy Cost (Travel, Materials, Assessments)?

Let’s talk about money! Seeing a private psychologist or therapist is great for your mental health. However, the first price isn’t always final. Assessments, reports, and longer sessions add up. If you are unsure, ask for a clear, itemised quote before you book.

Think of it like buying a video game console. You pay for the console, but then you need to buy the games, the controllers, and maybe an online membership. Therapy is kind of the same way.

Here are the sneaky extra costs you need to know about:

1. The Super-Deep “Brain Check-Up” (Assessments)

If you’re getting tested for things like ADHD, autism, or dyslexia, it’s called an assessment.

• The Big Fee: You pay a big price up front (like over £1,000 in the UK or $1,500+ in the US). This covers the main testing day.
• The Follow-Up Fee: They often don’t include the check-up meetings after the big test. If you need medicine, you have to keep meeting with a doctor (a psychiatrist) to get the right dose. These check-up sessions cost extra—sometimes £180 or more each time!
• The Paperwork Fee: Need a letter for your school or a special report for your doctor? That’s more work for the psychologist, so they charge you extra for that piece of paper.
• The “Hurry Up” Fee: If you need the results and the report super-fast, you might pay double or more for a “rush job”.

2. The Regular Talk Time (Therapy Sessions)

Even your usual weekly session can have hidden fees!

• If You Miss It: Missed sessions can be pricey. Forget your appointment or cancel within 24 hours, and you still pay the full fee, even if you did not attend. Ouch.
• Overtime Pay: Overtime can bump the bill. Most sessions are about 50 minutes, and some clinics charge per minute once you run over. That adds up fast.
• The “London Tax”: Where you live makes a huge difference. Seeing a therapist in London is way more expensive than seeing one in a smaller town. It’s like paying extra for a fancy office location!

Pro Tip: Ask, Ask, Ask!

Before you book the very first appointment, your family should always ask these three questions:

1. “What exactly is included in that main price?”
2. “What is your cancellation policy? How much notice do we need to give?”
3. “If we need a report for school, what is the charge for that?”

Knowing the answers up front means no surprise fees later!

FAQ: How Much Does a Therapist Cost in the UK

• Are therapists covered by the NHS?
  Yes. The NHS offers free talking therapies (e.g., NHS Talking Therapies in England), but availability varies by area and need.
• Can I get therapy for free in the UK?
  Yes. NHS services are free; some charities and universities also offer free or low‑cost sessions, often with waiting lists.

• Is therapy covered by insurance in the UK?
  Often. Many insurers cover a set number of sessions with approved clinicians; pre‑authorisation is usually required. Couples therapy is rarely covered.
  

• How long is the NHS therapy waiting list?
  It varies widely, from a few weeks to several months. Depends on location, demand, and urgency.
  

• What is the difference between a therapist and a psychologist?
  “Therapist” is a broad term. A psychologist (e.g., clinical/counselling) is doctorate‑trained and HCPC‑registered and can also do formal assessments.
  

• Can I pay for a private consultation and then NHS treatment?
  Sometimes. You can use private care and still access the NHS, but you generally cannot mix funding for the same appointment; local referral rules apply.
  

• How long are therapy sessions in the UK?
  Commonly 50 minutes. Couples, EMDR, and assessments may run 60–90 minutes.
  

• How many clients does a full-time therapist see in a week in the UK?
  Typically 15–25 one‑to‑one sessions, plus time for admin, notes, and supervision.
  

• What is the difference between counselling and therapy?
  Often used interchangeably. Counselling is usually shorter‑term and focused; psychotherapy is often longer‑term and deeper.
  

• Are all therapy sessions 1 hour?
  No. Most are around 50 minutes; some are 45, 60, or 90 minutes, depending on the service.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect When You Pay for Therapy

In 2025, how much does a therapist cost UK is usually between £50 and £138 per session, and it’s often higher in London. NHS therapy is free, though you may need to wait. Also, you can save with online sessions, sliding scale fees, or package deals. So, find a therapist who feels right and fits your needs and budget. And always check what’s included so you don’t get surprise fees.

Are you interested in an Online Physiotherapy Course? Start learning today with one of the UK’s prominent online course providers, Wise Campus!