Sometimes the term "counselling" is used to refer to talking therapies in general, but counselling is also a type of therapy in its own right.
Counselling can help you cope with:
- a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety or an eating disorder
- an upsetting physical health condition
- a difficult life event, such as a bereavement, a relationship breakdown or work-related stress
- difficult emotions – for example, low self-esteem or anger or feelings of emptiness.
What to expect from counselling
To begin, you will meet with a therapist who will offer a meeting for an assessment or a telephone consultation this will give opportunity to explore how counselling can work for you and what to expect from counselling if you decide to go ahead.
You will be encouraged to talk about what you have been struggling with and from this together set therapy goals and objectives.
The therapist can help you gain a better understanding of your feelings and thought processes, and find your own solutions to problems. Therapists won't give advice or tell you what to do.
Counselling can take place:
- face to face
- in a group
- over the phone
- by email
- online through live chat services (learn more about online tools for mental health)
It can take a number of sessions before you start to see progress, but you should gradually start to feel better with the help and support of your therapist.
Can you get free counselling on the NHS?
You can get free psychological therapies, including counselling for depression, on the NHS.
You don't need a referral from your GP.
You can refer yourself directly to a psychological therapies service.
Or you can get a referral from your GP if you prefer.
Find out more about free psychological therapies on the NHS.
Private counselling
If you decide to pay to see a private therapist, make sure they're qualified and you feel comfortable with them.
The cost of private counselling can vary depending on where you live.
Many private therapists offer an initial free session and lower rates for students, job seekers and those on low wages.
You should ask about charges and agree a price before starting a course of counselling.
Charities and voluntary organisations
Some charities and voluntary organisations also offer counselling. These organisations usually specialise in a particular area, such as couples counselling, bereavement or family guidance.
You don't need a referral from your GP for an appointment for these services, but you may have to pay a fee to cover the cost of your sessions.
Charities that may offer counselling include:
- Cruse Bereavement Care – for bereavement advice and support
- Rape Crisis England and Wales – for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused
- Relate – for relationship advice and counselling
- Samaritans – for people to talk about whatever's troubling them at any time
- Victim Support – for victims and witnesses of crime
- You may also be able to access support groups through your local community, church or social services.
Finding a qualified therapist
As counselling involves talking about sensitive issues and revealing personal thoughts and feelings, your counsellor should be experienced and professionally qualified.
