Free And Affordable Online Therapy Options In The UK
If you are looking for someone to talk to but worry about cost, you are not alone. Many people in the UK want support yet feel unsure where to start, or whether free or low cost options exist. The good news is that help is available. From NHS services and charities to digital tools and community resources, you can access online therapy and counselling without high fees.
This guide walks you through your options and answers common questions so you can choose the route that fits your needs and budget.
Can you get free online counselling in the UK?
Yes, you can. Several routes provide free online support, either through the NHS or charitable organisations. While availability and waiting times vary, these options are real, practical, and designed to help you move forward.
NHS Talking Therapies: You can self refer in most areas of England for anxiety, depression, trauma related difficulties, and more. Many services offer video or phone sessions and guided online programmes.
Search “NHS Talking Therapies” with your postcode, then self refer directly without seeing a GP first in most regions.
GP referral: If you prefer, speak to your GP about your mental health. They can refer you to local NHS services, note any additional needs, and advise on medication or crisis support if needed.
University and college services: If you are a student, your institution may offer free online counselling, workshops, and crisis lines. These services are often quick to access and can include specialist support for LGBTQ+ students or men’s mental health.
Charities and helplines: Organisations such as Samaritans, Shout, Mind, CALM, and Anxiety UK offer free or low cost support. While some focus on listening and guidance rather than therapy, they can bridge the gap while you wait for longer term counselling.
Tip: If one option has a long wait, apply to more than one route. You can be on an NHS waiting list and use a helpline or online programme at the same time.
What counts as free online counselling?
Free counselling usually means time limited sessions paid for by the NHS, your university, or a charity. You might access:
A set number of video or phone sessions with a therapist.
Guided self help programmes delivered online with brief therapist check ins.
Text based support via chat services.
These can be helpful, especially if you want structure and tools. If you need longer term therapy or a specific approach, you might consider low cost options or private therapy on a sliding scale.
The best online counselling in the UK, for you
There is no single best service for everyone. The right choice depends on your needs, identity, and budget. Consider:
Scope: Do you want short term support for anxiety or low mood, or longer term work on relationships, identity, or trauma?
Fit: Do you want an affirming therapist who understands LGBTQ+ experiences or men’s mental health, or a specialist in grief, anger, or stress?
Format: Do you prefer video, phone, or message based support? Do you want between session worksheets or a more exploratory style?
NHS services can be excellent for short term, structured help. Charities can offer responsive support when you need to talk now. Private therapy can provide continuity, the choice of therapist, and approaches tailored to you.
If you are exploring different modalities, you might be curious about approaches like Internal Family Systems. To learn how this model works online, you can read more about ifs therapy online.
Free and low cost routes you can start today
Self refer to NHS Talking Therapies: Use your postcode to find your local service and complete the online form. Many offer video sessions, group workshops, and digital programmes with therapist guidance.
Try text based support: Shout provides free, confidential text support, 24 or 7. This can help you feel grounded while you wait for therapy.
Contact charities for specific issues: Mind offers information and signposting; Anxiety UK and OCD Action provide low cost therapy options for members; CALM supports men in crisis or distress.
Ask your GP about local schemes: Some areas fund community counselling or peer support groups online. Your GP can share options that do not always appear in a web search.
Check student or workplace benefits: Universities and many employers offer confidential counselling sessions, employee assistance programmes, and wellbeing apps.
What if you need specialist, affirming support?
Specialist support can make a difference. If you want a therapist who understands sexuality, gender, or the pressures men face, look for services that name these needs directly. You deserve a space that feels safe and affirming.
LGBTQ+ support: LGBTQ+ and trans led organisations provide helplines, peer groups, and low cost counselling. If private therapy is an option now or later, you can explore lgbtq therapy online to see what affirming work can look like.
Men’s mental health: If you prefer to speak with someone who recognises how men are taught to manage emotions, consider services built around men’s experiences. You can read about men’s therapy uk for an example of what a focused, supportive space can offer.
How to decide quickly and confidently
Clarify your priority: relief from anxiety, help with grief, or support with identity and relationships.
Choose a route you can start this week: NHS self referral, a charity helpline, or a student service.
Set a review date: after four weeks, note what has helped and what you still need.
Adjust as you go: it is ok to try another service, ask for a different therapist, or add a support group.
If you move to private therapy later, you can still keep free supports in place. Many people blend options so they have both immediate help and depth over time.
Common questions, answered
Is there any free online counselling? Yes. NHS Talking Therapies, university services, and charities offer free or low cost online support across the UK.
Can I get free counselling online in the UK? Yes. You can self refer to NHS Talking Therapies, speak to your GP, or use student and charity services that provide online sessions.
Is BetterHelp free in the UK? No. It is a paid service. For free options, use the NHS, education providers, or charities.
What is the best online counselling in the UK? The best is the one that fits your needs, identity, and budget. Start with accessible supports, then refine your choice as you learn what helps.
Final thoughts
You deserve support that meets you where you are. Free and affordable online options exist across the UK, and you can start today with a self referral, a text line, or a university service. If you want longer term, affirming work later, private therapy can add depth and continuity; the key is choosing what helps you feel understood and supported now.
At Good To Talk Therapy, we offer confidential online sessions for people across the UK, with a warm, affirming approach for men and LGBTQ+ clients. When you are ready to explore longer term support, you can reach out and we will help you find a pace and style that fits your life.
