NHS therapy vs private counselling
NHS Therapy vs Private Online Counselling in the UK
NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT) is free and works well for many people, but waiting lists often run from a few weeks to over a year and sessions are usually capped at 6–12 of mostly CBT. Private online counselling with MySafeTherapy starts within 48 hours, from £50 a session, with your choice of BACP / UKCP-registered therapist and modality.
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Who this helps
- Have been on an NHS therapy waiting list for weeks or months
- Were offered fewer NHS sessions than you feel you need
- Want a specific modality (EMDR, psychodynamic, integrative) that the NHS does not routinely offer
- Want to pick your own therapist rather than be allocated one
- Need evening, weekend or anonymous sessions
- Are using the NHS for medication and want talking therapy alongside it
What MySafeTherapy offers
Start within 48 hours
Skip the NHS waiting list. Book a free 15-minute intro call and begin therapy this week.
From £50/session
Transparent session pricing. No long contracts, no commitment beyond the next session.
Choose your therapist
Browse BACP, UKCP and HCPC-registered UK therapists and pick the right fit — not whoever is next in the queue.
More than CBT
Integrative, psychodynamic, EMDR, trauma-focused and person-centred work — not only the CBT-led approach the NHS provides.
Online, on your terms
Video, audio, chat, or anonymous avatar sessions. Evenings and weekends available.
Works alongside the NHS
Many of our clients use NHS medication or crisis pathways and see us privately for talking therapy. The two can sit side by side.
How it works
- 1
Take a quick assessment
Answer a few questions about what you are looking for — it takes about 3 minutes.
- 2
Get matched
We suggest UK-registered therapists who fit your concerns, preferences and budget.
- 3
Free 15-minute intro call
Meet your therapist before booking. No charge, no pressure, switch anytime.
- 4
Begin within days
Book your first paid session from £50/session and continue weekly or fortnightly at your own pace.
NHS Talking Therapies vs MySafeTherapy at a glance
An honest side-by-side. The NHS is the right place for many people — these are the differences to weigh up.
| What to compare | NHS Talking Therapies | MySafeTherapy (Private) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical waiting time | 6 weeks to 18+ months for talking therapy | Usually within 48 hours |
| Cost | Free at the point of use | From £50/session, no long contracts |
| Session count | Usually 6–12 sessions, then discharge | Open-ended, weekly or fortnightly, your pace |
| Choice of therapist | Allocated by the service | Pick from BACP / UKCP / HCPC therapists |
| Modalities | Mostly CBT and guided self-help | Integrative — CBT, psychodynamic, EMDR, person-centred |
| Format | Phone, video or group (varies by trust) | Video, audio, chat, or anonymous avatar |
| Anonymity | Linked to your NHS record and GP | Optional pseudonymous and avatar sessions |
| How you start | GP referral or self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies | Online sign-up in minutes |
Waiting times are indicative and vary by NHS trust and region. Source: NHS Talking Therapies published service standards.
Safety & limitations
If you are in immediate crisis, private online therapy is not the right route. Call 999, contact NHS 111 option 2, or Samaritans on 116 123. The NHS remains the primary service for crisis, severe mental illness and medication. See our Safety & Crisis Support page.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent emotional support call Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258. See our safety guidance and UK crisis resources.
Frequently asked questions
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Ready to start?
Book a free 15-minute introductory call with a UK-registered therapist. No pressure, no commitment.
Book online counselling from £50/sessionNot ready to book?Share your story in a form instead