Online Counselling Services in the UK
Connect with expert UK therapists for confidential, effective support that fits your schedule and needs.
Welcome to UK Therapy Guide, your trusted partner for online counselling services. For over 12 years, we've been connecting individuals with experienced, accredited therapists through our secure and accessible platform. If you're looking for private counselling, we make the process simple, matching you with a therapist who specialises in your specific needs. In the UK, online mental health counselling is increasingly popular, with approximately 13% of UK adults now using online services for their mental well-being. We're committed to providing the best online counselling experience through convenient video counselling sessions that are proven to be as effective as traditional in-person therapy.
Online counselling offers a convenient and private way to connect with expert UK therapists who understand your unique needs, providing effective support for better mental health.
Finding Support Shouldn't Be Another Challenge
When you're already struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties, navigating the complex world of therapy options can feel overwhelming. Many people delay seeking help because they're unsure where to turn, concerned about fitting sessions into busy schedules, or worried about being truly understood by their therapist.
Online counselling services remove these barriers, offering convenient access to qualified therapists from anywhere in the country. Video counselling creates a therapeutic space that's both professional and comfortable—without the stress of commuting or sitting in waiting rooms.
With the right online counselling support, you can develop effective coping strategies, gain valuable insights into your thoughts and behaviours, and move forward with renewed clarity and confidence.
Common Questions About Online Counselling
"Is online therapy as effective as meeting in person?"
Yes—research consistently shows comparable outcomes for most common issues, with some clients actually preferring the comfort of their own space.
"What if I'm not tech-savvy?"
We've designed our online counselling UK platform to be simple and intuitive. We also provide clear instructions and support to help you connect easily.
"How can I know if my therapist is qualified?"
Every therapist on UK Therapy Guide is fully accredited, personally interviewed and with credentials verified against professional standards bodies like BACP and UKCP.
UK Therapy Guide addresses common concerns about online counselling effectively, assuring you of easy access, qualified therapists, and user-friendly platforms tailored to your technical comfort level.
Not Sure if Online Counselling is Right For You?
Curious about therapy but have questions? Our interactive quiz helps demystify counselling and clear up common misconceptions.
Our Quick Quiz Helps You:
- Learn what therapy actually involves
- Understand how it might help you
- Discover what to expect from sessions
- Get clarity on practical matters like costs
Why Choose UK Therapy Guide for Online Counselling
Benefit from tailored therapeutic connections and the highest standards of security and privacy with UK Therapy Guide's expertly matched online counselling services.
- Personalised Matching—Our free placement call service ensures you're paired with the right therapist for your specific needs and preferences
- Quality Assurance—All therapists are fully qualified, insured, and vetted for excellence.
- Flexible Sessions—Schedule online counselling appointments that work around your commitments, including evenings and weekends
- Secure and Private—End-to-end encrypted video counselling platform, compliant with all UK data protection regulations
- 12+ Years Experience—Trust in our decade-plus expertise connecting thousands of clients with the right therapeutic support
How it Works
Finding the right online counsellor shouldn't feel overwhelming. Our simple, personalised process ensures you're matched with the perfect counsellor for your needs.
Share Your Preferences
Complete our brief placement form to tell us about your needs, schedule preferences, and what you're looking for in a therapist.
Free Consultation Call
Have a friendly chat with our placement specialists who'll take the time to understand your situation and match you with the perfect therapist for your needs.
Begin Your Journey
Meet your carefully matched therapist and start working together through regular sessions to achieve your therapeutic goals.
Meet Our Online Counsellors in the UK
Finding the right online counsellor shouldn't be complicated. Our placement team personally knows every counsellor in our network, ensuring we can match you with someone who truly understands your needs.
Why we recommend Mariam
Mariam brings 18 years of experience across NHS and private settings, offering compassionate, culturally aware support to individuals, couples, and families. Her integrative, client-centred approach helps clients navigate emotional and relational challenges, with a strong focus on systemic therapy, social justice, and building lasting resilience.
United Kingdom
Family Therapy Specialist
Systemic Therapy Expert
Culturally Competent Care
With 18 years of diverse experience in clinical, therapeutic, and leadership roles across inpatient, crisis, community, and psychiatric intensive care settings, I have worked with individuals, children, young people, couples,...
With 18 years of diverse experience in clinical, therapeutic, and leadership roles across inpatient, crisis, community, and psychiatric intensive care settings, I have worked with individuals, children, young people, couples, and families facing various mental health and neurodivergent challenges both in NHS and private sectors.
As a UKCP-registered and AFT accredited Systemic & Family Psychotherapist and NMC registered Mental Health Nurse, I adhere to these professional regulatory bodies’ ethical standards.
I am committed to promoting mental health well-being, social justice, and anti-stigma initiatives through high-quality, intersectional care. With significant leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams, complex caseloads, and service delivery, I have contributed to improving parity of esteem for mental and physical health, embedding this within organisational culture and practice.
My approach is compassionate, culturally competent, and rooted in a deep understanding of the social and environmental factors influencing mental health. I am experienced in risk management and evidence-based frameworks to enhance care outcomes for individuals and families. I use an eclectic integrative, evidence-based approach that prioritises collaboration, non-oppressive methods, and client safety.
I offer individual, couples and family therapy, professional development coaching, and systemic consultations, working with diverse clients across independent, private and organisational health/social care sectors.
Whether you’re seeking long-term therapy, family intervention, or mental health consultancy, I am dedicated to supporting you in building resilient, supportive networks and improving your mental health and well-being.
Therapy Offered
- Client Centred Therapy
- Couples Therapy
- Person Centred Therapy
- Relational Therapy
- Systemic Therapy
- Creative therapy
Speciality areas
Qualifications
- MSc in Systemic and Family Psychotherapy
- MSc in Medical Anthropology
- BSc (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing (RMN)
- AFT-Accredited and UKCP-Registered Systemic & Family Psychotherapist
Session Fees
| Session Type | Online & Phone | In-Person |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | £65 | - |
| Couples | £85 | - |
| Family | £115 | - |
| Adolescent | £65 | - |
| Child | £65 | - |
Why we recommend Edmund
Edmund Neill-Hall provides compassionate, client-centred therapy to help individuals overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. His blend of Person-Centred and Experiential approaches creates a safe space for self-exploration, empowering clients to reconnect with themselves and find lasting healing.
Sussex
Body Awareness Specialist
Trauma-Informed Therapist
Addiction Support
I am a Psychotherapeutic Counsellor trained in the person-centred and experiential approaches. Prior to becoming a therapist, I travelled widely and worked overseas, encountering diverse people, cultures, and ways of...
I am a Psychotherapeutic Counsellor trained in the person-centred and experiential approaches. Prior to becoming a therapist, I travelled widely and worked overseas, encountering diverse people, cultures, and ways of interpreting the world. But it was the exploration of my own inner world, through therapy, that brought me the self-awareness and compassion necessary for a more balanced and contented life. My experience of both sides of the therapeutic relationship informs my trust in the value of counselling and its potential to heal and galvanise. I am registered with the BACP and adhere to their code of ethics. I hold an Accredited Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I run my own international private practice online, and hold face-to-face appointments with local clients at The Wilbury Clinic in Hove.
Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, struggling to cope, and unsure of how to navigate life’s many challenges. My aim is for us to gently unravel and untangle your thoughts and feelings, working together to make sense of what’s going on for you. Each person’s therapeutic journey is unique, yet our common desire is simply to feel better. It is important to me that from our first session together, we are working towards this goal.
My approach aims to help you reconnect with yourself, even if you are still discovering who that is. In so doing, we will start to uncover what has brought you to the place that you find yourself in. No matter how overwhelming the pain or the challenges you may feel, we will face them together in a safe and empathetic space. My role is to act as a supportive and understanding guide; enhancing your ability to draw upon your internal resources.
My therapeutic approach draws on my person-centred and experiential training.
PERSON-CENTRED
Your life is unique. I can never know you or the path you should follow better than you do. I believe that we each have within us the resources to live a healthy and fulfilling life. However, these abilities can sometimes get blocked or distorted by our personal circumstances and relationships, past and present. We will explore your issues, feelings, beliefs, behaviours, and worldview to help deepen your own understanding and self-awareness. I believe that the key to enabling another’s potential lies in consistently offering acceptance, empathy, and kindness.
EXPERIENTIAL
This approach works with the knowledge that emotions are felt, experienced and stored in our bodies. For example, for some of us anxiety may be felt as a constriction of the chest and shortness of breath, for others it might reside in the gut. An emotion may be triggered by thoughts in our head, but it is felt in our bodies. Paying attention to the wisdom of our body can give us insight into our emotional state, helping guide us towards better understanding.
Therapy Offered
- Body Therapy
- Client Centred Therapy
- Person Centred Therapy
Speciality areas
Qualifications
- L4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- Theories of Personality and Behaviour
- Person-Centred and Experiential Approach
Session Fees
| Session Type | Online & Phone | In-Person |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | £60 | £60 |
| Adolescent | £60 | £60 |
Why we recommend Jennifer
Jennifer offers a compassionate, person-centred approach to help clients navigate anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. She creates a safe space where you feel heard and empowered to move forward with confidence.
West Yorkshire
Person-Centred Specialist
Bereavement Support Expert
Anxiety and Trauma Specialist
If you're struggling with low mood, anxiety, self-esteem issues or just feel something isn’t right, I can help you find a way through. I offer person-centred counselling which will enable...
If you’re struggling with low mood, anxiety, self-esteem issues or just feel something isn’t right, I can help you find a way through. I offer person-centred counselling which will enable you to trust your own judgement and decide what you want from life.
Together, we can explore any challenges you may have with communication or with experiencing difficult emotions. Sometimes it can be scary to start the journey, particularly if you are new to therapy. That is why I like to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where you lead the way.
I believe strongly in equality and fairness for everybody, so I will take any concerns you may have in your life seriously and I will respond with empathy and ethically to whatever you share with me.
I can support you with: anxiety, depression, stress, burn out, social anxiety, relationship breakdown and divorce, loneliness, bereavement, low self-confidence, imposter syndrome, intergenerational trauma, and menopause.
Therapy Offered
- Bereavement Therapy
- Integrative Therapy
- Person Centred Therapy
- Psychotherapy
Speciality areas
Qualifications
- Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (Level 5), Chrysalis
- Level 5 Professional Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, Supporting Minds
Session Fees
| Session Type | Online & Phone | In-Person |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | £45 | £45 |
How Online Therapy Works
Online therapy sessions provide a convenient platform to receive professional support, allowing you to connect with a qualified therapist from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
UK online counselling delivers professional therapy services via secure video platforms, allowing you to connect with a qualified therapist from your home or any private space. Sessions typically last 50 minutes, just like traditional therapy, but eliminate travel time and waiting rooms.
We make the process straightforward. You'll start by registering on our platform and sharing your needs and preferences. Our team then carefully matches you with suitable therapists based on your requirements. Our secure video counselling platform ensures confidentiality through end-to-end encryption that meets all UK data protection standards.
Benefits of UK Online Counselling Services
Online counselling offers numerous advantages that traditional in-person sessions cannot match:
These benefits make online mental health counselling an increasingly popular choice for UK residents seeking convenient, effective support.
- Improved Accessibility: Online therapy removes barriers for those with mobility issues, in rural areas, or with busy schedules, making mental health support more readily available.
- Reduced Costs & Travel Time: Online sessions are typically more affordable than in-person therapy, with average costs starting from £50 per session – a significant saving compared to London-based services. Plus, eliminate travel time and expenses.
- Wider Choice of Therapists: Access a broader network of qualified therapists across the UK, allowing for a more tailored match based on your specific needs and specialisations.
- Flexible Scheduling: Benefit from appointment times that fit your lifestyle, including evenings and weekends.
- Enhanced Privacy: Enjoy discreet and confidential therapy from the comfort of your own space, addressing concerns about visibility and stigma.
Enjoy greater accessibility, reduced costs, and a broader choice of therapists with online counselling services tailored to suit diverse preferences and schedules in the UK.
Finding the Best Online Counselling for Your Needs
Select the right online counselling services by ensuring therapist qualifications, specialty areas, and preferred therapy approaches meet your individual needs.
When searching for the best online counselling services in the UK, several factors should guide your decision:
- Verify Therapist Accreditation: Ensure your therapist is registered with a recognised professional body like the BACP or UKCP for guaranteed standards and ethical practice.
- Explore Different Therapy Types: Understand that various therapeutic approaches (e.g., CBT, psychodynamic, humanistic) are more effective for specific issues. Consider which modality best suits your needs.
- Seek Specialised Expertise: If you have specific needs, such as couples counselling, young adult therapy, or cultural background considerations, look for therapists with relevant specialisations.
- Assess Compatibility in the First Session: Use your initial consultation to gauge your comfort level and build a connection with the therapist. This is crucial for a successful therapeutic relationship.
At UK Therapy Guide, we simplify this process through personal matching that considers these factors for you, ensuring you connect with the most suitable private counselling therapist for your unique situation.
Starting Your Online Therapy Journey
Beginning online counselling UK services is a straightforward process, but knowing what to expect can ease any initial anxiety:
- Prepare for Your First Session: Your initial meeting will focus on discussing your goals, sharing relevant background information, and establishing a comfortable rapport with your therapist.
- Create a Dedicated Therapy Space: Ensure a private, quiet environment free from interruptions. Good lighting and a stable internet connection are also essential for effective online sessions.
- Define Your Therapy Objectives: Clearly communicate your expectations and desired outcomes to your therapist. This helps them tailor their approach to meet your specific needs.
- Invest in the Therapeutic Relationship: Building trust and understanding with your therapist takes time. Be patient and open as you develop this important connection.
- Embrace the Process: Remember that therapy is a journey. By actively engaging in the process, you're taking a significant step towards positive change and well-being.
Taking the first step towards online therapy opens the door to a personalized and supportive mental health journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Counselling UK
- What is online counselling and how does it work?
- Online counselling UK services deliver professional therapy via secure video platforms, allowing you to connect with a qualified therapist from your home or any private space. Sessions typically last 50 minutes, just like traditional therapy, but eliminate travel time and waiting rooms. You'll need a reliable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and a quiet, private space where you won't be disturbed.
- Is online therapy as effective as face-to-face counselling?
- Yes. Multiple studies show that online counselling is equally effective as in-person therapy for most common mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and stress management. Meta-analyses of UK studies demonstrate equivalent efficacy between online and in-person counselling for mild-to-moderate mental health conditions.
- How do I choose the right online therapist for my needs?
- When selecting an online therapist, consider their qualifications (look for BACP, UKCP, or BPS registration), their specialisation in your areas of concern, and whether their approach resonates with you. At UK Therapy Guide, we simplify this process through our matching service, which considers your preferences, needs, and circumstances to recommend therapists best suited to help you. The initial consultation is also an excellent opportunity to assess whether you feel comfortable with the therapist.
- How secure and private are online counselling sessions?
- At UK Therapy Guide, we prioritise your confidentiality. All our video counselling sessions use end-to-end encryption and comply fully with GDPR and UK data protection regulations. Our therapists adhere to the same strict confidentiality standards as in-person therapy. We recommend you also ensure your own environment is private during sessions to maintain confidentiality.
- What technology do I need for online counselling sessions?
- You'll need a device with a camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer), a stable internet connection, and a private, quiet space. We recommend using headphones for better audio quality and increased privacy.
- How much does online therapy cost with UK Therapy Guide?
- Our therapists typically charge between £50-120 per private counselling session, which is often 20-30% less expensive than comparable in-person therapy in major UK cities. All fees are transparent and agreed upon before beginning therapy, with no hidden costs.
- What if I don't connect with the therapist I'm matched with?
- Finding the right therapeutic connection is essential for effective online mental health counselling. If you don't feel comfortable with your initially matched therapist, simply let us know, and we'll arrange an alternative match. Our goal is your successful therapy experience, not just making an initial connection.
- Are online therapists as qualified as in-person therapists?
- Absolutely. All therapists offering online counselling UK services through UK Therapy Guide hold the same professional qualifications, accreditations, and insurance as traditional therapists. They're registered with recognised UK professional bodies such as BACP, UKCP, or BPS and have specific training in delivering therapy online. Many therapists now work in both online and in-person settings, applying the same expertise across both formats.
- Is online counselling suitable for all types of mental health concerns?
- Online counselling is effective for most common mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, grief, and personal development. However, it may not be appropriate for severe mental health crises, active suicidal ideation, or certain complex conditions that benefit from in-person assessment. During your initial consultation, your therapist will assess whether online therapy is suitable for your specific situation and may recommend alternatives if appropriate. Studies show that while online counselling UK platforms excel in early intervention, they are less recommended for severe conditions.
- How soon can I start online therapy after registering?
- Many clients can begin online counselling within 48 hours of completing our matching process. After your initial enquiry, we'll arrange a free telephone consultation to understand your needs, then match you with appropriate therapists. Once you select your preferred therapist, you can often book your first session within days, depending on their availability. This is significantly faster than the average 18-week waiting time often experienced with NHS services.