Free and Low-Cost Therapy Options in the UK

Private therapy is not the only route. Many people can get free or reduced-cost support through the NHS, charities, workplaces and universities. Options vary by nation and area.

NHS routes

  • NHS Talking Therapies (England): free talking therapy for anxiety and depression. In most areas you can refer yourself online. Find your local service on nhs.uk.
  • Your general practice: a GP can refer you to psychological services, community mental health teams, Psychiatrists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Dietitians or Speech and Language Therapists. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, your GP is usually the first step.
  • Self-referral to some therapies: many areas let you refer yourself to NHS Physiotherapy, and some to Speech and Language Therapy for children. Check your local NHS trust or health board website.

Charities and community services

  • Hub of Hope: a national database of local mental health support.
  • Mind and local Mind branches often offer free or low-cost counselling.
  • Specialist charities for bereavement, domestic abuse, eating difficulties and young people often provide free counselling.

Workplace and education

  • Employee Assistance Programmes: many employers fund a few free, confidential sessions. Ask human resources.
  • Universities and colleges: most have free student counselling and wellbeing services.

Lower-cost private options

  • Some practitioners offer reduced fees or sliding scales. Ask when you make contact, and use Find a therapist to compare.
  • Training clinics at universities and therapy training institutes may offer lower-cost sessions with supervised trainees.

Urgent help

If you need help now: Samaritans free on 116 123 (24 hours), text SHOUT to 85258, NHS 111, or 999 if life is at risk. More routes are on Finding NHS support and Useful links.

General information, not clinical or legal advice. Not a crisis service: in an emergency call 999, or ring NHS 111 or Samaritans free on 116 123.

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