Counselling in Leeds: Costs, Self-Referral & What to Expect — 2025 Guide

At-a-glance

Fast facts Details

Typical NHS wait in Leeds ≈ 5 months for talking therapies

Private session price (Leeds) £55–£60 after an initial £25–£30 assessment

UK-wide private range £80–£200 per hour depending on modality & city

Can I self-refer for counselling in Leeds?

Yes. You can skip the GP and book directly into the Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS) for CBT, counselling for depression and guided self-help. Complete their online form or call the service and you’ll be triaged within a few days; treatment starts once a slot opens.

Or you can book directly with a private therapist such as Yellow Chair Therapy. Ensure they are BACP registered and if they can help with your particular issues. Many therapists have specialisms such as ADHD support or infant loss.

How long will I wait for NHS counselling in Leeds?

Current data shows an average wait of around five months from referral to first session for step-two and step-three talking therapies in the city. Shorter waits are possible for guided self-help; complex presentations may take longer.

If you need help sooner, consider private therapy while you remain on the NHS list

How much does private therapy cost in Leeds and across the UK?

• Leeds city centre: most private counsellors charge £55–£60 per 50-minute session after an introductory session that’s often discounted to ~£25.

• UK averages: expect £80–£140 for counselling and up to £200 for specialist CBT or EMDR in London and the South-East.

What type of counselling is right for me?

1. Person-centred therapy – good all-rounder for self-esteem or relationship issues.

2. CBT Leeds – structured, time-limited work for anxiety, phobias and depression.

3. Psychodynamic psychotherapy – explores deeper, often childhood roots of distress.

During your assessment, your therapist will discuss goals and recommend a modality. You can always switch if the fit isn’t right after a few sessions.

Does online therapy work as well as face-to-face sessions?

Multiple UK trials show comparable outcomes for mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression when video therapy follows the same evidence-based protocols. Online sessions also widen choice beyond LS1 and save travel time. Face-to-face may feel safer if you lack privacy at home or need trauma-focused work.

How many therapy sessions will I need?

• Brief counselling / CBT: 6–12 sessions (weekly) is standard for focused goals.

• Longer-term psychotherapy: 20+ sessions, sometimes open-ended, for complex or longstanding issues.
  Agree a review point with your therapist after six sessions to assess progress.

What happens in the first counselling session?

You’ll spend about 50 minutes covering:

1. Confidentiality & boundaries

2. Your goals (e.g., reduce panic attacks, improve mood)

3. Relevant history (health, family, previous therapy)

4. Next-step plan – frequency, approach, homework if CBT

Leave with a clear idea of how therapy will look and whether the counsellor feels like a good match.

Next steps

Book a free 15-minute call with Yellow Chair Therapy to discuss your needs.