Counselling in London

I am a fully qualified psychotherapist and have over 18 years experience helping clients to clarify and resolve their life difficulties in a variety of settings, within the NHS and in private practice. It may be that you are in the middle of a crisis, lost a job, or a loved one, struggling with difficult emotions, feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, stuck, lost, confused. Or you may be experiencing a general sense of unhappiness, anxiety or dissatisfaction, unsure where these feelings come from and what they mean. Whatever problem you have, you may now feel the urgency to find the best way to resolve it and move forward in life.
I am a fully qualified psychotherapist and have over 18 years experience helping clients to clarify and resolve their life difficulties in a variety of settings, within the NHS and in private practice. It may be that you are in the middle of a crisis, lost a job, or a loved one, struggling with difficult emotions, feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, stuck, lost, confused. Or you may be experiencing a general sense of unhappiness, anxiety or dissatisfaction, unsure where these feelings come from and what they mean. Whatever problem you have, you may now feel the urgency to find the best way to resolve it and move forward in life.

Hello, I am Zalfa, a Counselling Psychologist. At the heart of my work, I strive to create a warm and empathetic space for individuals from all walks of life. I support clients facing a variety of challenges, including self-esteem issues, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and low mood. Additionally, I have substantial experience in the NHS and voluntary sector working with complex mental health difficulties such as complex trauma, substance misuse, and gender-based violence. As a Lebanese-British psychologist I have cultivated a particular interest in holistic therapeutic approaches, which consider all aspects of a person.
Hello, I am Zalfa, a Counselling Psychologist. At the heart of my work, I strive to create a warm and empathetic space for individuals from all walks of life. I support clients facing a variety of challenges, including self-esteem issues, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and low mood. Additionally, I have substantial experience in the NHS and voluntary sector working with complex mental health difficulties such as complex trauma, substance misuse, and gender-based violence. As a Lebanese-British psychologist I have cultivated a particular interest in holistic therapeutic approaches, which consider all aspects of a person.

You may be feeling worried, down, stressed, fed up, conflicted, confused, or simply wishing for change. It may feel difficult to manage life and you may have no idea why, or you might have some ideas. Perhaps you’ve had difficult experiences during childhood, adolescence or adulthood. Perhaps the thought of talking to someone feels a bit scary but better than keeping everything bottled up. You may wish to improve your relationship or relationships in general. Perhaps things happen in your life and you don’t understand why, or how. You might find that you’re drawn to distractions like the internet, or overspending.
You may be feeling worried, down, stressed, fed up, conflicted, confused, or simply wishing for change. It may feel difficult to manage life and you may have no idea why, or you might have some ideas. Perhaps you’ve had difficult experiences during childhood, adolescence or adulthood. Perhaps the thought of talking to someone feels a bit scary but better than keeping everything bottled up. You may wish to improve your relationship or relationships in general. Perhaps things happen in your life and you don’t understand why, or how. You might find that you’re drawn to distractions like the internet, or overspending.

I provide long-term individual psychotherapy to help address issues in areas such as self esteem, anxiety, sex, sexuality and relationships. I am also a supervisor of psychotherapists and teach trainee psychotherapists at the Existential Academy and Regent's University. I carried out my psychotherapy training at Regent's University and obtained my Doctorate in Psychotherapy from Middlesex University. I am fully accredited by the UKCP. The session fee is agreed between us in the first session based on what you are able to pay and what we both think is fair.
I provide long-term individual psychotherapy to help address issues in areas such as self esteem, anxiety, sex, sexuality and relationships. I am also a supervisor of psychotherapists and teach trainee psychotherapists at the Existential Academy and Regent's University. I carried out my psychotherapy training at Regent's University and obtained my Doctorate in Psychotherapy from Middlesex University. I am fully accredited by the UKCP. The session fee is agreed between us in the first session based on what you are able to pay and what we both think is fair.

Gillian is registered as an Integrative Psychotherapist and works with adult, couple relationships, adolescent, group and family therapy and career consulting. Integrative psychotherapy works with the whole person taking into consideration the body, mind, emotions and familial, social and cultural context of the individual. She will aim to explore a broad range of influences throughout the lifespan to assist the client to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationship to others and to society. There will be an exploration of both the internal and external world of the client and the interaction between the two.
Gillian is registered as an Integrative Psychotherapist and works with adult, couple relationships, adolescent, group and family therapy and career consulting. Integrative psychotherapy works with the whole person taking into consideration the body, mind, emotions and familial, social and cultural context of the individual. She will aim to explore a broad range of influences throughout the lifespan to assist the client to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationship to others and to society. There will be an exploration of both the internal and external world of the client and the interaction between the two.

I am a person who believes that our capacity to embrace the ups and downs of life is our greatest strength. Adversity can be a brilliant teacher if we are willing to learn and consequently, change. My objective is to help you find your own voice, recognise your greatest strengths and empower you to live a fulfilling life. I am confident that by working together we will make sense of your fears, whether you are struggling with debilitating anxiety, or you feel isolated from your friends and family. It is important that you know that paths exist that can help you to move ahead.
I am a person who believes that our capacity to embrace the ups and downs of life is our greatest strength. Adversity can be a brilliant teacher if we are willing to learn and consequently, change. My objective is to help you find your own voice, recognise your greatest strengths and empower you to live a fulfilling life. I am confident that by working together we will make sense of your fears, whether you are struggling with debilitating anxiety, or you feel isolated from your friends and family. It is important that you know that paths exist that can help you to move ahead.

With vast experience in the field on a national as well as international level, I offer highly skilled psychotherapy to individuals and groups in my private practice. I am also a Senior Psychological Therapist for a highly specialist forensic service in London treating high and very high-risk adults with personality difficulties who are involved in the criminal justice system. I supervise other psychologists and psychotherapists as well as provide specialist group and individual consultations to probation offices and approved premises.
With vast experience in the field on a national as well as international level, I offer highly skilled psychotherapy to individuals and groups in my private practice. I am also a Senior Psychological Therapist for a highly specialist forensic service in London treating high and very high-risk adults with personality difficulties who are involved in the criminal justice system. I supervise other psychologists and psychotherapists as well as provide specialist group and individual consultations to probation offices and approved premises.

Life can be complicated, and it’s not unusual to feel stuck, in pain, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a meaningful way. My approach is centred around the philosophy that you already hold the answers to your challenges, even if they feel out of reach right now. Together, we’ll explore what’s been happening for you—how past experiences, patterns, or relationships might be influencing your present as well as taking into account the broader socio-political conditions that lead to mental health distress.
Life can be complicated, and it’s not unusual to feel stuck, in pain, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a meaningful way. My approach is centred around the philosophy that you already hold the answers to your challenges, even if they feel out of reach right now. Together, we’ll explore what’s been happening for you—how past experiences, patterns, or relationships might be influencing your present as well as taking into account the broader socio-political conditions that lead to mental health distress.

My goal is to provide you with a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space in which you can open up and really talk about what's on your mind. With the help of therapy, we can work through the distressing and overwhelming feelings of depression, trauma, anxiety, worry, stress, and any other difficulties you might be experiencing.
My goal is to provide you with a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space in which you can open up and really talk about what's on your mind. With the help of therapy, we can work through the distressing and overwhelming feelings of depression, trauma, anxiety, worry, stress, and any other difficulties you might be experiencing.

I am a professionally qualified counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have experience of working with adults and young people. I have helped clients suffering with loss, relationship/family issues, anxiety, depression, abuse, and suicidal ideation's. I also have experience in the areas of - low self esteem, stress, work issues, sexuality, culture, diversity and bullying. I have an understanding of cultural needs and expectations.
I am a professionally qualified counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have experience of working with adults and young people. I have helped clients suffering with loss, relationship/family issues, anxiety, depression, abuse, and suicidal ideation's. I also have experience in the areas of - low self esteem, stress, work issues, sexuality, culture, diversity and bullying. I have an understanding of cultural needs and expectations.

Searching online for a therapist might not be easy, but finding a good fit is essential to feel safe and get the most out of your effort, time, and money. If you are reading this... ...then the chances are, something is troubling you, something is not right, something is not working for you right now in your life. So, something needs to be addressed, acknowledged, processed, changed and healed in order for you to move forward with your life. You have the opportunity in therapy to learn how to reassert control over your heart, mind, body and soul. ...and that's where I can help!
Searching online for a therapist might not be easy, but finding a good fit is essential to feel safe and get the most out of your effort, time, and money. If you are reading this... ...then the chances are, something is troubling you, something is not right, something is not working for you right now in your life. So, something needs to be addressed, acknowledged, processed, changed and healed in order for you to move forward with your life. You have the opportunity in therapy to learn how to reassert control over your heart, mind, body and soul. ...and that's where I can help!

I am a Clinical Psychologist with specialist expertise in helping people work through issues such as depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, anger, and intimacy issues. I use evidence-based psychological therapies to help people find meaning, improve relationships, and reduce suffering. I have additional training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and therapies focused on processing trauma. In addition to my private practice, I'm proud to hold a senior role in a mental health service based in London. I offer sessions in the Swiss Cottage and Belsize Park area of London.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with specialist expertise in helping people work through issues such as depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, anger, and intimacy issues. I use evidence-based psychological therapies to help people find meaning, improve relationships, and reduce suffering. I have additional training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and therapies focused on processing trauma. In addition to my private practice, I'm proud to hold a senior role in a mental health service based in London. I offer sessions in the Swiss Cottage and Belsize Park area of London.

I am a Clinical Psychologist & Neuropyschologist (registered with the HCPC). I completed my DClinPsy qualification at King's College London, following a PhD from the University of Cambridge and MSc in Neuropsychology from the University of Bristol. I conduct comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combined with other psychological models to explore beliefs and actions that may be maintaining emotional difficulties. I also support people to develop a compassionate self-understanding; to regain purpose and meaning by exploring personal values; and to be more aware of the present moment.
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Neuropyschologist (registered with the HCPC). I completed my DClinPsy qualification at King's College London, following a PhD from the University of Cambridge and MSc in Neuropsychology from the University of Bristol. I conduct comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combined with other psychological models to explore beliefs and actions that may be maintaining emotional difficulties. I also support people to develop a compassionate self-understanding; to regain purpose and meaning by exploring personal values; and to be more aware of the present moment.

I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic space. Feeling safe and understood can allow you to share your difficulties. Through the assessment process, we can develop a shared understanding of what has contributed to your feeling this way and your desired goals for therapy. We can then start to identify and establish new ways of coping in line with your values. I have experience working with people from a variety of backgrounds and difficulties.
I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic space. Feeling safe and understood can allow you to share your difficulties. Through the assessment process, we can develop a shared understanding of what has contributed to your feeling this way and your desired goals for therapy. We can then start to identify and establish new ways of coping in line with your values. I have experience working with people from a variety of backgrounds and difficulties.

With over 15 years experience, every single client I worked with was ideal to me, as being unique, with his/her story, difficulties, weaknesses but also strengths. At times clients come to therapy with a specific goal, other times they do not have a clue, and this is part of the process. If a client is now reading my profile, he/she may be struggling with a recent or more long-standing emotional distress, not able to sleep, concentrate, work, relate to others, etc. He/she may be worrying about what to say to a psychologist; what to expect; possibly fearful of being judged, not understood; if the psychologist would be good enough...
With over 15 years experience, every single client I worked with was ideal to me, as being unique, with his/her story, difficulties, weaknesses but also strengths. At times clients come to therapy with a specific goal, other times they do not have a clue, and this is part of the process. If a client is now reading my profile, he/she may be struggling with a recent or more long-standing emotional distress, not able to sleep, concentrate, work, relate to others, etc. He/she may be worrying about what to say to a psychologist; what to expect; possibly fearful of being judged, not understood; if the psychologist would be good enough...

I offer a space for peace and reflection, helping to understand how the way we react to what life throws at us can make things even harder. I offer individual counselling using Mindfulness-based Therapy, combining Western approaches to psychotherapy with the wisdom and awareness of Buddhism. You may feel anxious, or depressed, you may be affected by psychosexual issues, by grief and bereavement, living with illness, especially HIV/AIDS, or caring for a loved one with a mental health problem. You may be going through problems coming from your multicultural background, having identity issues and trouble at reintegration.
I offer a space for peace and reflection, helping to understand how the way we react to what life throws at us can make things even harder. I offer individual counselling using Mindfulness-based Therapy, combining Western approaches to psychotherapy with the wisdom and awareness of Buddhism. You may feel anxious, or depressed, you may be affected by psychosexual issues, by grief and bereavement, living with illness, especially HIV/AIDS, or caring for a loved one with a mental health problem. You may be going through problems coming from your multicultural background, having identity issues and trouble at reintegration.

I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I currently work as a postdoctoral research associate and as an honorary therapist in London. I am experienced in a wide range of mental health problems; eating disorders, body image issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotion regulation difficulties, and trauma.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I currently work as a postdoctoral research associate and as an honorary therapist in London. I am experienced in a wide range of mental health problems; eating disorders, body image issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotion regulation difficulties, and trauma.

Located 2 mins from Brixton station. My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, empathic and relational. When working together, you will have the space to explore your current difficulties and begin articulating confusing, sometimes conflicting, thoughts and feelings. We will explore unhelpful and destructive behaviours, identify inner strengths and resources, and build new coping strategies.
If you are struggling to form/maintain healthy relationships, we can further develop your communication skills, and work towards increasing your levels of intimacy, enriching your connections with significant others.
Sessions take place weekly.
Located 2 mins from Brixton station. My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, empathic and relational. When working together, you will have the space to explore your current difficulties and begin articulating confusing, sometimes conflicting, thoughts and feelings. We will explore unhelpful and destructive behaviours, identify inner strengths and resources, and build new coping strategies.
If you are struggling to form/maintain healthy relationships, we can further develop your communication skills, and work towards increasing your levels of intimacy, enriching your connections with significant others.
Sessions take place weekly.

Many people I work with come to therapy feeling stuck, anxious, angry, or emotionally disconnected. What is wrong is not always clear — just a sense that something isn’t working. Often, there’s a wish to understand oneself more fully. My practice is driven by curiosity, and a desire for reflection and an exploration of emotions and meaning. Over time, this process can lead to a greater sense of clarity, connection, and confidence grounded in acceptance.
Many people I work with come to therapy feeling stuck, anxious, angry, or emotionally disconnected. What is wrong is not always clear — just a sense that something isn’t working. Often, there’s a wish to understand oneself more fully. My practice is driven by curiosity, and a desire for reflection and an exploration of emotions and meaning. Over time, this process can lead to a greater sense of clarity, connection, and confidence grounded in acceptance.

My name is Hayley Anderson-Walsh, a BACP (Accred) Gestalt Therapist, Supervisor and Mediator.
As a Therapist I am acutely aware of the importance of working with a counsellor who can support your therapeutic journey.
My name is Hayley Anderson-Walsh, a BACP (Accred) Gestalt Therapist, Supervisor and Mediator.
As a Therapist I am acutely aware of the importance of working with a counsellor who can support your therapeutic journey.
See more therapy options for London
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in London
3,000+
Average cost per session
£75
Counsellors in London who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
83% | Self Esteem |
80% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Stress |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
69% | Aviva |
63% | AXA PPP |
56% | Vitality |
How Counsellors in London see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
24% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in London?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.