The main difference in using a private Counsellor is that you can usually access the help you need within a few days versus the current long waiting times that you have with the NHS. When it comes to Mental Health it is vital to tackle it as early as possible and not allow it to take hold. The NHS is a free service where you pay a session fee for using a private Counsellor.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself to work out whether you need private or NHS counselling
How fast do you need help?
Depending on your circumstances the wait for an NHS counsellor can many months. When booking a private session, your preferred counsellor can often get you in for an appointment within the next week. This is something to heavily consider as over time mental health issues can worsen. Some counsellors like myself offer emergency out of hours sessions.
How much am I willing to pay for therapy?
One of the main benefits of NHS counselling is the free price tag. However, waiting for counselling can cost you in the long run – being depressed or anxious can mean you overspend money to feel better and it can potentially affect your work. The cost of Private counselling can vary from around £50 to £150 per 50 min session.
Virtual therapy is now becoming ever more popular and with Covid-19 forcing people to work from home most counsellors now offer this, including me click here to enquire.
How many people do you want to speak to?
With a private counsellor like myself, we will speak about your mental health history. Often with the NHS, you might have to talk to several people, for example, you will speak with your GP and then receive a call from a mental health practitioner and then you will be offered a therapist.
These three things can help you to determine which type of counselling is right for you. Private counselling is reactive and proactive but comes as a price, therefore I would urge anyone that is in desperate need of help to contact me through my enquiry page.