The cost of private psychological therapy in the UK has risen sharply in recent years, with average fees now up by more than a third since 2022. The steep increase is leaving many people unable to afford vital mental health support, while others are facing lengthy waits as demand continues to outstrip capacity.
A new analysis by myTribe Insurance found that the average cost of a one-hour session with a private psychologist is now £129.20, compared with £96 three years ago. For those requiring a typical course of 12 sessions, the total bill has climbed to around £1,550.
The research also revealed that nearly 30% of psychologists are currently unable to take on new clients. This shortage reflects the growing demand for private care at a time when NHS services are under severe strain, with long waiting lists pushing more people to seek alternatives.
Regional differences are also striking. In London and Leicester, average fees are close to £160 per session, while in Colchester sessions may cost as little as £85. Waiting times vary significantly as well, with the national average standing at just over 20 days, but rising to more than 30 days in parts of the East of England and the South West.
Practitioners say several factors are driving the surge in costs. Inflation and rising overheads mean running a private practice is more expensive than before. Rent, utilities, professional insurance, and administrative costs are adding up, with some therapists reporting monthly business expenses of around £1,500 before salary and tax. These pressures, combined with a growing number of people seeking support, are pushing up fees across the board.
The British Psychological Society has acknowledged that inflationary pressures are part of the problem. Mental health charities warn that the rising cost of care risks deepening inequalities, creating a two-tier system where those able to pay can access timely support while others are left to wait for NHS treatment. Campaigners argue that the current trajectory threatens to widen the mental health gap across socioeconomic lines.
Some providers are exploring alternatives to traditional face-to-face sessions in an effort to keep support affordable. Online therapy platforms, group sessions, and community-based initiatives have grown in popularity, particularly since the pandemic. Digital therapy tools are often less costly and can provide more flexible access, though questions remain about consistency of quality and suitability for those with complex needs.
Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the sustainability of the private therapy market. If costs continue to rise and capacity remains limited, many fear that mental health needs will go unmet. This could add further pressure to NHS services, which are already facing record levels of demand.