They say that the first step to recovery is accepting you need help. But while it’s a tough enough process for someone to conclude that they need more support, it’s only made more challenging when it becomes apparent that the help needed could be, financially, out of reach.
So, what can you do if you can’t afford to access therapy?
Firstly, get an appointment with your GP. While the waiting list for the NHS can be long, it’s worth applying to access it. Your GP can also offer a number of other options in the meantime, such as discussing taking some time off work or even medication to support you in the interim.
It’s also worth figuring out if your work has an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). A lot of larger businesses offer this as part of your HR package and it’s a great way to access fast and free private therapy. If you feel comfortable doing so, speaking to your HR team can also help you to access support, as well as discuss options that might help if your stress is work-related.
Dependent on your age, many youth clinics and youth health centres also offer rapid access to therapy. So, if you’re under 25, it might be worth contacting one local to you.
“You may find websites offering low-cost therapy online. This can be helpful if you’re uncomfortable talking to someone in person, or if you have difficulty leaving the house or using transport. But, some of these sites might not use professional therapists, so it’s important to ask enough questions to trust in the person you’re talking to.”
Mind, UK.
Some community and charity sector organisations may offer free or low-cost talking therapies.
Members of [Anxiety UK](https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/our-services/book-your-therapy-here/) gain access to their choice of reduced-cost therapy services. You simply pay a small one-off membership cost for access. This is ideal for someone on a low-income, as their fees are based on how much you earn.
Mental Health Matters (MHM) offers a telephone counselling service and talking therapies in some areas.
Cruse Bereavement Care may offer free counselling services if you have experienced the death of someone close to you. It’s available in person and over the phone.
Rape Crisis centres offer expert counselling to survivors of sexual abuse and rape. As well as this, they can sometimes support partners and close family members.
