Best Online Therapy: UK Options
Teletherapy has been used in various forms since the 1950s. Once the internet became more widely available in the 1980s, people began using online chat rooms to discuss mental health. In the 1990s, providers established the International Society for Mental Health Online (ISMHO) to support and regulate interactions between practitioners and clients in formal therapy settings online.
The popularity of virtual therapy accelerated considerably during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and has continued to rise ever since. Its availability, convenience, and affordability relative to traditional in-person sessions are a few contributing reasons for this. Here, we’ll explore the best options for online therapy in the UK, what to expect from online therapy, and how to get the most out of your experience.
Why choose online therapy?
Plus, some people might feel more comfortable discussing sensitive details about their feelings and experiences with a therapist via video, phone, or chat than face to face. Individuals experiencing stigma associated with having mental health challenges or seeking mental health support might also appreciate the discretion that attending sessions from home may offer.
Types of online therapist providers in the UK
There are several types of online therapy platforms available in the UK. You can choose a pay-per-session or a subscription-based service that offers messaging and live sessions for a monthly fee. You may work one-on-one with the same therapist or within a network where you’ll be matched with different therapists.
BetterHelp is a widely used virtual therapy platform globally. It's subscription-based and offers a wide range of therapy types, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and others . Subscriptions can be as low as £65, billed every four weeks.
Specialized therapy online
Some people seeking therapy may prefer to speak to a counselor via a platform catering to a specific group that they belong to. For example, Regain is a virtual therapy platform for couples, and TeenCounseling specializes in helping teens aged 13–19.
Many mainstream platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace also host therapists who specialize in serving specific communities, such as LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of color, and individuals from various cultural and religious backgrounds.
Key features of the best online therapy (UK) services
Online therapy platforms differ in the types of treatment and features they provide. The best online therapy platforms typically offer a wide range of therapeutic modalities (e.g., CBT, family therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, etc.) and multiple ways to communicate with your therapist, such as text, email, phone, video, or chat. Find out about their policies on contacting your therapist between sessions if necessary. Many platforms provide asynchronous care that allows clients to send messages to their therapist outside of scheduled sessions, with the therapist responding as soon as they can.
Counselors and clients should work as a team to monitor their progress and adjust treatment accordingly. If the counselor and client aren't a therapeutic match, a quality online therapy platform will allow the client to switch therapists easily if needed. Finally, most quality platforms offer transparent pricing without hidden fees and, in some cases, provide financial assistance programs to help make affordable therapy more widely available.
Therapist requirements for the best online therapy (UK) platforms
One of the most essential features of a reputable online therapy service is how they vet the counselors they work with to ensure they have proper qualifications, training, and ethical standards. To become a therapist in the UK, individuals typically must finish a postgraduate training program accredited by the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), which usually involves a degree in a relevant field like psychology, social work, or nursing. Professionals must also complete personal therapy and 450 supervised practice hours in clinical psychology. These conditions typically take three to six years to complete.
How to get started with therapy online
Most online therapy platforms require individuals to create an account providing details like their name and contact information, then complete an intake questionnaire about their specific mental health goals. This information helps the platform's algorithm match you with a suitable experienced therapist based on your unique needs and preferences.
Some platforms set up a short initial consultation call where clients meet with their prospective therapist to discuss their needs, ask questions, and assess overall rapport. If the individual is comfortable with the match, they can schedule their first official session. Therapy session structure and duration may vary depending on the therapist, the client’s needs, and the type of treatment used.
Techniques commonly used in online therapy
One of the most common mental health treatments used in online therapy UK today is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This approach focuses on helping the client cultivate self-awareness so they can better identify and shift distorted thought patterns that affect feelings and behavior. The structured nature of CBT allows for easy delivery through text, video, or voice communication, making it convenient for virtual therapy.
Other modalities often used in online therapy
Examples of other types of talking therapies sometimes used in online treatment (depending on the platform and therapist's expertise) include:
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): focuses on accepting thoughts and feelings while committing to positive actions
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT): used for developing coping skills to manage intense emotions and improving interpersonal skills
- Exposure therapy: can sometimes be adapted to online therapy for treating phobias by gradually and safely exposing individuals to virtual representations of their fears
Research on the effectiveness of online counselling
Some people may assume that online therapy isn’t as effective as conventional treatment; however, a growing body of research suggests that it can be in many cases. Here are a few studies outlining how online therapy compares to traditional treatment outcomes:
- Researchers at UCLA Health reviewed over 60 studies on the topic. Their findings indicate that virtual therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for most people with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research reviewed 12 randomized controlled trials, with findings suggesting that video therapy can be “equivalent to face-to-face care for clinical effectiveness, treatment adherence, and patient satisfaction.”
- A study published in the journal Nature Mental Health analyzed the outcomes of more than 27,500 NHS patients. It indicates that clients who participated in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) online received treatment faster, improving their quality of life more quickly and contributing to better long-term outcomes.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
What do therapists say about the efficacy of online therapy?
While some mental health professionals offered online sessions before COVID-19, many began using the medium during the early years of the pandemic. Since then, many psychologists have continued to provide virtual services, and some have now transitioned to work exclusively online.
According to current research, many psychologists using online therapy platforms have positive experiences, reporting treatment outcomes for their clients that are similar to those associated with in-person therapy.
For instance, one qualitative study examined the experiences of nine mental health professionals offering online therapy during the earlier years of the pandemic. These participants reported satisfaction with treatment outcomes and noted that some clients showed increased treatment adherence. The same study also indicated several potential challenges. Areas for proposed improvements included technology-specific training and support.
Potential limitations
While it can be effective in many cases, online therapy can present certain limitations in some cases. For example, it may be more difficult to see facial expressions, hear voices, or see body language—particularly when therapy takes place primarily through live chat or when there are technical difficulties affecting audio or video. Technical issues can also disrupt sessions and cause frustration.
Mental health conditions that may require in-person care rather than online counselling
Online therapy may not be suitable for people with a severe or long-term mental health condition. For example, in-person intervention or direct treatment may be required in cases where individuals experience delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thinking. Symptoms commonly associated with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), eating disorders, and other severe mental health conditions often require more intensive, in-person treatment modalities.
Questions to ask when vetting therapists
Before your first meeting with an online therapist, you might reflect on any questions you have about the therapeutic process. For example, you may inquire about treatment modalities and the tools they use to address your specific concerns. You might ask about the therapist’s qualifications as well. Are they a mental health professional who has met all their educational requirements? How many years have they been in practice?
Does the therapist specialize in certain areas or topics related to mental health? Do these specialties align with your needs? Have they worked with clients who have faced concerns similar to yours? Finally, it can be important to understand the platform's payment policies and subscription guidelines. For example, what is their cancellation policy? What are your options if you’d like to switch therapists?
Tips for maximizing the mental health benefits of online therapy
Ensuring you’re technologically prepared can be a helpful first step towards getting the most out of your online therapy experience. Test your internet connection and charge your devices before each session and familiarize yourself with the platform to minimize disruptions. Choose a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed or overheard during your sessions. Other tips for maximizing your online therapy experience include:
- Be open and honest about your thoughts and feelings
- Discuss and establish clear goals with your therapist
- Ask questions about therapeutic concepts and methods to gain clarification or further understanding as needed
- Reflect on your progress and complete any “homework” assigned by your therapist between sessions
- Provide feedback to your therapist about what you think is working and what may not be
- Work with your therapist to make adjustments as needed
Takeaway
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK equivalent of BetterHelp?
The UK Counselling Network is a UK-based online therapy platform. However, BetterHelp also supports those living in the UK, with plans starting as low as 65 pounds, billed every four weeks. You can access BetterHelp from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
What is the best online therapy website?
Many online therapy websites offer unique benefits, so choosing the best for you depends on the features you seek. For example, sites like Regain offer online therapy for couples. Sites like BetterHelp may offer access to extra tools like weekly support groups and worksheets, which can be helpful alongside weekly individual sessions.
Can I use BetterHelp in the UK?
Those who live in the UK can use BetterHelp from any location with an internet connection and access to a smart device like a smartphone or computer. Plans start as low as 65 pounds, billed every four weeks. In addition, clients can often get matched with a therapist within 48 hours of signing up, allowing them access to providers with experience in many areas of mental health and wellness.
How much does online therapy cost in the UK?
Online therapy costs in the UK can depend on the option you choose. An online therapy platform can be as low as 65 pounds weekly. However, if you work with an online individual practice provider the average cost of an individual therapist in the UK can surpass 100 pounds per session.
What is the most popular therapy in the UK?
The most popular therapeutic modality in the UK is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can support individuals with various mental health problems and conditions, including but not limited to anxiety disorders, social anxiety, stress, life changes, and ways to overcome trauma and family issues. Through CBT, clients learn how to replace unwanted thoughts and behaviors with new coping skills and beliefs. CBT can be taken at your own pace and may be accessed online from your own home or in your area with a qualified therapist.
Can BetterHelp be used internationally?
BetterHelp can be accessed internationally by those with an internet connection and personal smart devices with access to apps or a website. This platform offers a low-cost therapy service accessed via telephone counselling, video, or live chat therapy options. After getting matched with a therapist within 48 hours of signing up, clients can have their first session with a counsellor at a time that works for them. BetterHelp therapists have unique backgrounds and professional experience, offering support for challenges from day-to-day life to coping skills when you feel anxious.
Why is therapy so expensive in the UK?
Individual therapy may be expensive in the UK because of limited insurance options and specialty providers and because of the unique training and expertise therapists require to offer counseling online or in person in the UK. Despite the high cost of many therapists in the UK, some offer financial aid through a sliding-scale system to allow more low-income clients to receive support. Counseling online can be another low-cost option for therapy.
How do I choose a good therapist in the UK?
To choose a therapist you connect with, look for one who specializes in the area you hope to get advice with. For example, a therapist who works primarily with depressive disorders may not be a helpful option for someone seeking support with psychosis, even if they’ve trained in supporting all types of clients. In addition, consider your budget and whether insurance will cover therapy. If you’ve decided to try online therapy sessions, consider whether you want video, phone, or live chat support. Finally, you might ask yourself whether you prefer a male, female, LGBTQ+, or BIPOC therapist. Some clients may also want to work with a religious or spiritual provider.
How long is the waiting list for therapy in the UK?
The waitlist for therapy through the NHS can depend on where you live and the number of providers available to take new clients with your unique challenge. Specialists may have a longer waitlist than general therapists. However, these wait times can vary, so speak to your general practitioner when getting your referral about potential options in the meantime. They may be able to help you find a medication or another support option while you wait.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medication or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. Do not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
What is the difference between therapy and counselling in the UK?
In general, therapy is a broader term meant to encompass any type of mental health counseling offered to clients, but especially therapy focused on a mental illness or symptom. Counseling can be more specifically applied to less-intensive sessions, such as career advice, guidance through a big decision, or relationship advice sessions. However, both terms have the same meaning and are usually used interchangeably.
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