I pay significantly less than the rates stated in this thread, but this has been negotiated over a long period of time with my therapist and at her instigation. It might be that once you have established a relationship, demonstrated motivation and need that your therapist would be open to further negotiation. I am not supporting the idea that you should have to "prove yourself" as a viable therapy option, but I think the reality is that therapists are more open to significant fee reduction with long term clients in need.


If you are in a university city, you might find that univerisities offer a counselling unit type service which provides training to counselling students/research clinics alongside accompanying free/low cost therapy to local residents.


Local charities and voluntary sector organisations will provide counselling, but it will most likely be short/medium term. It might be worth contacting them for suggestions about practitioners who accept those on low incomes. It is also worth looking for counselling provided by organisations specific to your presenting issues. For example, I know of local organisations who offer open-ended therapy to women who have experienced sexual violence.


I previously had NHS therapy which was only intended as 6 month service provision. However, it was extended beyond that time due to my circumstances so don't automatically discount what is being offered for free.