Talking therapies (sometimes called counselling) involve speaking to someone who’s trained to listen in a safe and confidential space. You can talk about your thoughts, feelings or experiences without judgement.
Many people find it helps to talk about what they’re going through to someone outside their family and friends. Therapy can support you if you’re feeling low, anxious, overwhelmed or struggling with difficult emotions.
You can get talking therapy for free on the NHS. You don’t always need to see your GP – in many cases, you can refer yourself directly. Low-cost and private (paid-for) options are also available.
Find local counselling services
Free NHS services
If you think talking therapy might help, you can refer yourself to the Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS). This local NHS service offers:
- Guided self-help
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)
- Counselling for depression
Therapy can be provided in person, by phone, over video, or online.
If you’re looking for faith-based support, the Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service also offers a free six-week course called ‘Improving Low Mood Using Islam‘, designed to help Muslim adults in Leeds explore low mood and depression from an Islamic perspective.
- Learn more about talking therapies and counselling on the NHS website.
- Read about CBT and what to expect
- Find an NHS talking therapies service.
Low-cost local services
If NHS therapy isn’t right for you, or you prefer something different, there are low-cost options in Leeds:
- Leeds Mind offers low-cost self-referral counselling and psychotherapy to anyone who lives in the Leeds area.
- Phoenix Health and Wellbeing offer subsidised counselling with limited sessions for people with long-term mental, physical or emotional health issues and low income. A referral is needed from a GP, health worker or support worker.
- The Market Place offers free and confidential services to young people aged 11 to 25 years old who live or study in Leeds. Please Telephone 0113 246 1659 or check their website for counselling services or request a referral form. Please note, as of July 2025, The Market Place is closed to new referrals.
Private (paid-for) counselling – including some lower-cost options
If you prefer to pay for therapy or want more choice, private options are available. Some therapists offer reduced rates.
Look for a counsellor who’s registered with a professional body, such as:
- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
- British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
- UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
You can search for a therapist on:
Read about choosing a qualified therapist or counsellor on the NHS website.
Counselling for autistic people
Autistic adults may find autism-specific counselling more helpful.
Visit Leeds Autism AIM and see their Mental Health Guide for Autistic Adults for more information and support options.