Counselling in SW1X
I provide a premium doctorate-level service for ambitious individuals and families who value a results-driven approach built on a simple truth: your potential is often limited by external pressures and old patterns, not your actual ability. Like you, I often see things differently. I work uniquely by using proven methods to map out why you feel stuck or exhausted, recalibrating your approach so you can be at your best. I believe high-performing individuals are the essential building blocks of any successful system, so I maintain a very small, exclusive cohort of private clients alongside my work with families and corporations.
I provide a premium doctorate-level service for ambitious individuals and families who value a results-driven approach built on a simple truth: your potential is often limited by external pressures and old patterns, not your actual ability. Like you, I often see things differently. I work uniquely by using proven methods to map out why you feel stuck or exhausted, recalibrating your approach so you can be at your best. I believe high-performing individuals are the essential building blocks of any successful system, so I maintain a very small, exclusive cohort of private clients alongside my work with families and corporations.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, lonely — or simply not yourself anymore?
Are you tired of being misunderstood, taken for granted, or repeating the same painful patterns in relationships?
Are you facing a major life change — separation, divorce, a new career, relocation — and quietly wondering, “How will I cope?”
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Aliona is a highly experienced Relationship and Trauma Counsellor based in London, UK, offering compassionate, results-focused therapy for individuals, couples, families, professionals, students and parents. She specialises in helping clients heal emotional wounds.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, lonely — or simply not yourself anymore?
Are you tired of being misunderstood, taken for granted, or repeating the same painful patterns in relationships?
Are you facing a major life change — separation, divorce, a new career, relocation — and quietly wondering, “How will I cope?”
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Aliona is a highly experienced Relationship and Trauma Counsellor based in London, UK, offering compassionate, results-focused therapy for individuals, couples, families, professionals, students and parents. She specialises in helping clients heal emotional wounds.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of private and NHS experience, working with adults, children and families. I have a particular interest in co-researching identity with people at significant transition points in their lives. This includes, but is not limited to, loss and bereavement, the challenges of a health condition, parenting, life-stage transitions, fertility issues, trauma. People may be experiencing low mood, anxiety & hopelessness and I offer a space to navigate these challenges and help people live in line with their values.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of private and NHS experience, working with adults, children and families. I have a particular interest in co-researching identity with people at significant transition points in their lives. This includes, but is not limited to, loss and bereavement, the challenges of a health condition, parenting, life-stage transitions, fertility issues, trauma. People may be experiencing low mood, anxiety & hopelessness and I offer a space to navigate these challenges and help people live in line with their values.
Many people reach a point where anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, overwhelm or disconnection feels all encompassing. You may be managing on the surface but privately struggling with pressure, loss, or uncertainty. For some, this shows up in patterns around food, alcohol or performance. For others, it may be linked to direction, responsibility, or self-worth. I work with a broad range of clients, from those navigating studies and early adulthood to those with recurring challenges and stress at any phase of adult life. I also offer specific grief counselling for bereavement as well as circumstantial loss.
Many people reach a point where anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, overwhelm or disconnection feels all encompassing. You may be managing on the surface but privately struggling with pressure, loss, or uncertainty. For some, this shows up in patterns around food, alcohol or performance. For others, it may be linked to direction, responsibility, or self-worth. I work with a broad range of clients, from those navigating studies and early adulthood to those with recurring challenges and stress at any phase of adult life. I also offer specific grief counselling for bereavement as well as circumstantial loss.
My name is Dr Daniel O’Toole (Danny) and I am the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Citadel Psychology. I have over 20 years experience working in the NHS and have also worked in the private and voluntary sectors. As a clinical psychologist, I have worked with patients experiencing a variety of psychological difficulties. I take a person-centred approach to my therapeutic work and draw on a number of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
My name is Dr Daniel O’Toole (Danny) and I am the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Citadel Psychology. I have over 20 years experience working in the NHS and have also worked in the private and voluntary sectors. As a clinical psychologist, I have worked with patients experiencing a variety of psychological difficulties. I take a person-centred approach to my therapeutic work and draw on a number of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor, I am a member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy, and I adhere to the high standards and ethical framework for this membership. I provide a supportive, non-judgemental and confidential space for you which is compassionate, understanding, professional and focused. People I work with have stated that in working with me they have experienced improvements in their life, from increased emotional robustness, mental strength to a stronger sense of self, confidence and self esteem with increased awareness and improvements in their relationships with partners, family and friends.
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor, I am a member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy, and I adhere to the high standards and ethical framework for this membership. I provide a supportive, non-judgemental and confidential space for you which is compassionate, understanding, professional and focused. People I work with have stated that in working with me they have experienced improvements in their life, from increased emotional robustness, mental strength to a stronger sense of self, confidence and self esteem with increased awareness and improvements in their relationships with partners, family and friends.
we are a group of highly specialist clinical psychologists who can support you in navigating a range of challenges, including low mood, anxiety, burnout and stress, bereavement, loss, fertility issues, difficulties relating to gender and sexuality, parenting challenges, relationship difficulties, the effects of traumatic experiences and living with health conditions and new diagnoses. we will help you connect with the knowledges, skills and experiences held in your body, mind and community, to better understand your difficulties and find preferred paths for living your life.
we are a group of highly specialist clinical psychologists who can support you in navigating a range of challenges, including low mood, anxiety, burnout and stress, bereavement, loss, fertility issues, difficulties relating to gender and sexuality, parenting challenges, relationship difficulties, the effects of traumatic experiences and living with health conditions and new diagnoses. we will help you connect with the knowledges, skills and experiences held in your body, mind and community, to better understand your difficulties and find preferred paths for living your life.
I offer sessions face to face in my safe & comfy therapy room based in Walton on the Naze, I also work online, so wherever you are in the world. Feeling stuck, anxious, or not quite yourself — but unsure whether therapy is for you? Many people come to therapy feeling exactly this way, often after trying to manage alone for a long time. I’m an experienced therapist offering a warm, supportive space to explore what’s happening for you. I don’t see therapy as a last resort — it’s something I use myself when I need support and clarity. If this hits home, I invite you to get in touch for an initial chat.
I offer sessions face to face in my safe & comfy therapy room based in Walton on the Naze, I also work online, so wherever you are in the world. Feeling stuck, anxious, or not quite yourself — but unsure whether therapy is for you? Many people come to therapy feeling exactly this way, often after trying to manage alone for a long time. I’m an experienced therapist offering a warm, supportive space to explore what’s happening for you. I don’t see therapy as a last resort — it’s something I use myself when I need support and clarity. If this hits home, I invite you to get in touch for an initial chat.
I endeavour to provide a safe, comfortable, quiet space for clients to explore sensitive issues. The relationship between myself and the client is at the heart of my approach. I believe that being with a client and offering a compassionate holding presence while they share their story is essential to establish a therapeutic working alliance before offering insight and psycho education. I adapt my approach to suit the needs of each client and integrate suitable interventions or tools work with whatever issue the client is presenting.
I endeavour to provide a safe, comfortable, quiet space for clients to explore sensitive issues. The relationship between myself and the client is at the heart of my approach. I believe that being with a client and offering a compassionate holding presence while they share their story is essential to establish a therapeutic working alliance before offering insight and psycho education. I adapt my approach to suit the needs of each client and integrate suitable interventions or tools work with whatever issue the client is presenting.
My clients are thoughtful individuals who value depth and reflection. Many have lived through trauma, loss, or periods of profound transition, and now seek not quick solutions but sustained psychological work. They are drawn to therapy as an ongoing investment in awareness, relationship, and inner freedom — a confidential space to explore complexity, rediscover meaning, and live with greater authenticity and emotional depth. This is a process for those who wish to engage seriously with themselves and create lasting transformation at the deepest levels of experience, where real change becomes possible.
My clients are thoughtful individuals who value depth and reflection. Many have lived through trauma, loss, or periods of profound transition, and now seek not quick solutions but sustained psychological work. They are drawn to therapy as an ongoing investment in awareness, relationship, and inner freedom — a confidential space to explore complexity, rediscover meaning, and live with greater authenticity and emotional depth. This is a process for those who wish to engage seriously with themselves and create lasting transformation at the deepest levels of experience, where real change becomes possible.
What brings people to psychotherapy is as varied and individual as the people who come. Some have specific concerns, such as anxiety, depression or low mood. Others are navigating significant life events, for example, parenthood, bereavement, illness, caring responsibilities, or divorce. Some want to understand themselves better and find a meaningful narrative for their lives and relationships. Others have noticed repetitions or patterns in their relationships with others, and perhaps with themselves. For some, the reasons for coming are not yet clear, but there is a sense that something warrants exploration or attention.
What brings people to psychotherapy is as varied and individual as the people who come. Some have specific concerns, such as anxiety, depression or low mood. Others are navigating significant life events, for example, parenthood, bereavement, illness, caring responsibilities, or divorce. Some want to understand themselves better and find a meaningful narrative for their lives and relationships. Others have noticed repetitions or patterns in their relationships with others, and perhaps with themselves. For some, the reasons for coming are not yet clear, but there is a sense that something warrants exploration or attention.
If you are feeling alone, overwhelmed and experiencing difficulties in relationship or noticing the same unwanted behaviors repeating, we can bring a sense of health and forward movement to your life. We can work with a range of issues like anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, nervous system activation, relationship issues, abandonment, rumination, phobias, physical pain, trauma, and early trauma.
If you are feeling alone, overwhelmed and experiencing difficulties in relationship or noticing the same unwanted behaviors repeating, we can bring a sense of health and forward movement to your life. We can work with a range of issues like anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, nervous system activation, relationship issues, abandonment, rumination, phobias, physical pain, trauma, and early trauma.
Do you suffer from home and work-based anxiety, stress management, workplace performance, grief/bereavement and/or family conflict? Clients seeing me want help to succeed at work, help with achieving work/life balance from COVID-19, and help resolving communication difficulties with co-workers and family members. Clients who see me come for solutions to problems, not drawn out therapy or coaching. My aim is to help you in a minimal amount of time, for an affordable price that beats out most psychologists and coaches.
Do you suffer from home and work-based anxiety, stress management, workplace performance, grief/bereavement and/or family conflict? Clients seeing me want help to succeed at work, help with achieving work/life balance from COVID-19, and help resolving communication difficulties with co-workers and family members. Clients who see me come for solutions to problems, not drawn out therapy or coaching. My aim is to help you in a minimal amount of time, for an affordable price that beats out most psychologists and coaches.
The first step towards asking for help can be the hardest. Get in touch and we can take it together. My name is Claudine Astles and I work with clients in the Victoria area of central London, SW1, and also online. I am committed to offering a safe, non-judgemental space in which we can use counselling and therapy to explore your concerns, fears, and anxieties, and work together to help you reconnect with joy. I work with individuals on an open-ended basis or for an agreed time period, with the aim of enabling you to enhance your life and to live it more fully.
The first step towards asking for help can be the hardest. Get in touch and we can take it together. My name is Claudine Astles and I work with clients in the Victoria area of central London, SW1, and also online. I am committed to offering a safe, non-judgemental space in which we can use counselling and therapy to explore your concerns, fears, and anxieties, and work together to help you reconnect with joy. I work with individuals on an open-ended basis or for an agreed time period, with the aim of enabling you to enhance your life and to live it more fully.
Intimacy and connection are among the most powerful sources of energy we have - when things are good between the two, everything else, including work, kids and life challenges, feels lighter, easier and more fun. I help individuals and couples to understand and use this energy through the psychology of desire, motivation, and connection.
I work with couples who experience loss of libido, mismatched desire, or the aftermath of infidelity and with those who are in a good, stable relationship and want more. More depth, more excitement, more aliveness.
Intimacy and connection are among the most powerful sources of energy we have - when things are good between the two, everything else, including work, kids and life challenges, feels lighter, easier and more fun. I help individuals and couples to understand and use this energy through the psychology of desire, motivation, and connection.
I work with couples who experience loss of libido, mismatched desire, or the aftermath of infidelity and with those who are in a good, stable relationship and want more. More depth, more excitement, more aliveness.
I am an experienced psychotherapist, psychosexual and couples psychotherapist based in South Kensington, with a strong history in assisting individuals and couples in navigating various challenges in their lives. Together with private practice, I have also worked at the Homerton University Hospital - NHS Foundation Trust in the Cliveden Centre – specialising in sexual dysfunctions/STI’s/living with HIV/sexual trauma as well as psychosexual dysfunctions and relationship conflict. I work with both individuals and couples . I spent two years on the Neurological Rehabilitation Ward – UCLH – Queen Square. Over the course of five
I am an experienced psychotherapist, psychosexual and couples psychotherapist based in South Kensington, with a strong history in assisting individuals and couples in navigating various challenges in their lives. Together with private practice, I have also worked at the Homerton University Hospital - NHS Foundation Trust in the Cliveden Centre – specialising in sexual dysfunctions/STI’s/living with HIV/sexual trauma as well as psychosexual dysfunctions and relationship conflict. I work with both individuals and couples . I spent two years on the Neurological Rehabilitation Ward – UCLH – Queen Square. Over the course of five
Dr. Pointer, OCD Specialist -OCD Therapy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Both my own personal experiences of OCD from an early age & my trainings have led me to deeply understand OCD, & how to recover from it. I have been where you are now, & have successfully recovered from OCD. Therefore, I understand that your intrusive thoughts are not are reflection of you or your values & can lead you out of your OCD labyrinth. I provide therapy that goes right to the heart of our OCD experiences, with a special focus upon taboo, bad, sexual, violent, weird, magical, & surreal intrusive thoughts, images, obsessions, urges, physical sensations, & compulsions (mainly covert).
For mild, moderate, & severe OCD
Both my own personal experiences of OCD from an early age & my trainings have led me to deeply understand OCD, & how to recover from it. I have been where you are now, & have successfully recovered from OCD. Therefore, I understand that your intrusive thoughts are not are reflection of you or your values & can lead you out of your OCD labyrinth. I provide therapy that goes right to the heart of our OCD experiences, with a special focus upon taboo, bad, sexual, violent, weird, magical, & surreal intrusive thoughts, images, obsessions, urges, physical sensations, & compulsions (mainly covert).
For mild, moderate, & severe OCD
I am motivated by a lifelong curiosity in people and their capacity to develop. I believe that the relationship between therapist and patient can be a vehicle for growth. I have worked with addiction, relationship and sexual issues, depression/anxiety and loss, as well as dealing with anger and violence. I am a psychodynamic practitioner. This means that as a therapist I am interested in listening to you and trying to help you understand how past experiences, often from childhood, affect your life today and the way you view yourself. Together with the therapist you can think in a different way about your past, present and future.
I am motivated by a lifelong curiosity in people and their capacity to develop. I believe that the relationship between therapist and patient can be a vehicle for growth. I have worked with addiction, relationship and sexual issues, depression/anxiety and loss, as well as dealing with anger and violence. I am a psychodynamic practitioner. This means that as a therapist I am interested in listening to you and trying to help you understand how past experiences, often from childhood, affect your life today and the way you view yourself. Together with the therapist you can think in a different way about your past, present and future.
Many of the people I work with seek therapy because they’re feeling anxious, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to shift, even while appearing to cope well on the surface. They’re often thoughtful, capable adults navigating burnout, perfectionism, low self-confidence, or relationship difficulties.
Some come to therapy after a recent diagnosis such as ADHD, while others are simply recognising long-standing struggles with anxiety or emotional regulation. These are just a few of the issues I work with, though many clients experience a mix of challenges. We will focus on what feels meaningful for you to address.
Many of the people I work with seek therapy because they’re feeling anxious, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to shift, even while appearing to cope well on the surface. They’re often thoughtful, capable adults navigating burnout, perfectionism, low self-confidence, or relationship difficulties.
Some come to therapy after a recent diagnosis such as ADHD, while others are simply recognising long-standing struggles with anxiety or emotional regulation. These are just a few of the issues I work with, though many clients experience a mix of challenges. We will focus on what feels meaningful for you to address.
I am a registered Psychosexual & Relationship Psychotherapist. I work with a wide range of presentations, including erectile difficulties, ejaculation concerns, low desire/loss of sexual desire, vaginismus (difficulty in penetration), dyspareunia (painful sex), orgasm problems, depression, sex anxiety, attachment issues, relationship and communication issues including cultural, religious diversity. I enjoy working with diversity, culturally sensitive, LBGTQIA+ and outreach with BAME communities. I work with individuals and couples, helping them to work through issues that affect their self-esteem/confidence, and sex lives.
I am a registered Psychosexual & Relationship Psychotherapist. I work with a wide range of presentations, including erectile difficulties, ejaculation concerns, low desire/loss of sexual desire, vaginismus (difficulty in penetration), dyspareunia (painful sex), orgasm problems, depression, sex anxiety, attachment issues, relationship and communication issues including cultural, religious diversity. I enjoy working with diversity, culturally sensitive, LBGTQIA+ and outreach with BAME communities. I work with individuals and couples, helping them to work through issues that affect their self-esteem/confidence, and sex lives.
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in SW1X
80+
Average cost per session
£102
Counsellors in SW1X who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Anxiety |
| 86% | Depression |
| 85% | Relationship Issues |
| 84% | Self Esteem |
| 80% | Stress |
| 64% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 58% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 67% | Aviva |
| 63% | Vitality |
| 60% | AXA PPP |
How Counsellors in SW1X see their clients
| 69% | In Person and Online | |
| 31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 70% | Female | |
| 28% | Male | |
| 2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in SW1X?
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.