Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting. This guide answers everything you need to know about finding and starting therapy in the UK.
What’s the Difference Between a Counsellor and a Psychotherapist?
One of the most common questions people have when looking for support is: what’s the difference between a counsellor and a psychotherapist? The honest answer is that the terms are often used interchangeably in the UK, but there are some general distinctions worth knowing.
Counsellors typically work with specific issues or life events — relationship difficulties, bereavement, work stress, anxiety or depression. Counselling tends to be shorter term and focused on the present.
Psychotherapists often work more in depth, exploring patterns of behaviour, childhood experiences and longer-standing emotional difficulties. Psychotherapy tends to be longer term.
In practice, many therapists are trained in both and will describe themselves as a counsellor/psychotherapist. What matters most is finding someone you feel comfortable with, who has experience in the area you need support with.
Other types of support you might come across:
CBT therapists — focus on thoughts, feelings and behaviours
Psychodynamic therapists — explore unconscious patterns and past experiences
Person-centred therapists — focus on the relationship and your own capacity to grow
Integrative therapists — draw from multiple approaches depending on your needs
Supervisors — work specifically with other therapists and counsellors
Wellbeing practitioners — may include somatic therapists, breathwork facilitators, yoga therapists and more
How to Access Therapy on a Budget in the UK
Cost is one of the biggest barriers to accessing therapy. The BACP Public Perceptions Survey 2026 found that 35% of people who considered therapy but didn’t go ahead said cost was the reason. Here’s how to find affordable support:
Sliding scale fees
Many private therapists offer a sliding scale — charging less for lower income clients. It’s always worth asking when you make initial contact.
Charities and low-cost services
Organisations like Mind, Relate, Cruse Bereavement Care and local counselling services often offer low-cost or free therapy. Waiting lists can be longer but the support is genuine.
NHS therapy
You can self-refer to NHS talking therapies (previously IAPT) in England for free CBT and other evidence-based therapies. Wait times vary but this is a genuinely valuable option for anxiety and depression.
Student and trainee therapists
Counselling students and trainees often see clients at reduced rates as part of their placement hours. They are supervised throughout and many clients find this very effective.
EAP schemes
If you’re employed, check whether your employer offers an Employee Assistance Programme — many include a number of free therapy sessions.
Online therapy
Online therapy is often more affordable than in-person, with lower overheads for therapists meaning savings can be passed on to clients.
At The Therapy Hub UK, our referral service takes your budget into account when matching you with a therapist — simply let us know your budget range when you submit your referral request.
What to Expect from Your First Therapy Session
Starting therapy for the first time can feel nerve-wracking. Knowing what to expect can help.
Before the session
Your therapist will usually offer an initial consultation — sometimes free, sometimes at a reduced rate. This is a chance to ask questions, share what’s brought you to therapy and get a feel for whether they’re the right fit for you.
During the first session
Your therapist will likely ask about what’s brought you to therapy, your background and what you’re hoping to get from the sessions. You don’t need to have all the answers — it’s okay to say you’re not sure. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with.
It’s okay if it feels strange at first
Many people find the first session — or even the first few sessions — feel a little awkward. That’s completely normal. The therapeutic relationship builds over time, and most people find it gets easier.
You’re in control
You can end therapy at any time. You can change therapist if it doesn’t feel right. You can take a break and come back. Therapy works best when you feel safe, respected and heard — and a good therapist will always prioritise that.
After the session
It’s common to feel a range of emotions after a therapy session — sometimes relief, sometimes unsettled. Both are normal. Give yourself time to process and be gentle with yourself.
Ready to Find the Right Therapist?
At The Therapy Hub UK, we make finding the right therapist simple. Just fill in our referral request form with details about the type of support you’re looking for, your budget, location and availability — and we’ll match you with a verified therapist, counsellor or supervisor who fits your needs.
Whether you’re looking for online therapy, in person sessions, telephone support or something more specialist — we’re here to help you find the right fit.