There are many ways to get talk therapy (counselling and psychotherapy) for free. But some people choose to get therapy privately (pay for therapy).
You do not need a referral for most private counsellors or therapists. You can self-refer (make an appointment directly yourself). But you may need a referral for a private psychiatrist.
Even if you decide to find a counsellor or therapist yourself, it's a good idea to talk to your GP.
Why talk to your GP
Your GP:
- will listen to you
- will help find the cause of your mental health difficulties
- may do tests
- may give advice
- can tell you what treatment might help
- recommend talk therapy and tell you ways to get it
- prescribe medicine
They may refer you to:
- SilverCloud - a guided digital cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) service
- Counselling in Primary Care (CIPC)
- Primary Care Psychology
If they think you may have moderate to severe mental health difficulties, they may refer you to other services.
Choosing a trained counsellor or therapist
Talk therapy such as counselling or psychotherapy involves talking about sensitive issues and sharing personal thoughts and feelings.
If you decide to pay to see a private therapist, make sure they are experienced, qualified, registered and you feel comfortable with them.
Before or at your first session ask about costs and how many sessions you will need.
Where to find a therapist
Counsellors you can trust will be registered with a professional organisation.
You can search for a therapist through these organisations.
Psychological Society of Ireland
Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Irish Council for Psychotherapy
Find a therapist - psychotherapycouncil.ie
Irish Association of Humanistic & Integrative Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist directory - iahip.org
Family Therapy Association of Ireland
Find a family therapist - familytherapyireland.com
Paying for talk therapy
If you are worried about the cost of going to a therapist privately find out about all the ways you can get free or low cost talk therapy.
The cost of private therapy can vary. It depends on the therapist's education and training and how much experience they have. It can also depend on their location and if they specialise in certain areas of mental health.
The typical charge per session for going to a therapist privately can be between:
- €30 and €60 with a trainee counsellor, but up to €80 if they are trainee doctors
- €30 and €70 with an organisation offering low cost therapy
- €60 and €100 with a private counsellor
- €90 and €180 with a private psychologist