Finding the Best Psychotherapists in Edinburgh for True Support
Seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming when you’re dealing with a lot. Whether managing relationship hurdles, deep trauma, or professional burnout, finding a practitioner who matches your needs is vital for real healing.
To help you navigate your options, I spent time looking into local practices to find the best psychotherapists in Edinburgh.
Taking care of your mind is just as essential as visiting local massage spas or enrolling in a yoga class to stay physically fit. This list cuts through the noise so you can connect with a qualified expert who truly understands how to support your journey.
How much do psychotherapists cost in Edinburgh?
A 50-minute session with a private psychotherapist in Edinburgh typically ranges from £60 to £90, though rates can vary from £35 to over £140 depending on the practitioner’s credentials and the type of care you need.
| Practitioner Type | Average Cost per Session |
| Trainee Clinics | £35 (approx.) |
| Counsellors / Standard Psychotherapists | £60 – £80 |
| Couples & Family Therapy | £80 – £145 |
| Chartered / Clinical Psychologists | £90 – £140 |
1. Edinburgh Counselling
Website: edinburghcounselling.co.uk
Areas Served: Edinburgh and in the West End of Glasgow
Contact: 0781 557 2466
Finding a truly seasoned practitioner can instantly put your mind at ease. James at Edinburgh Counselling brings almost 30 years of experience, having started his practice in 1997.
He uniquely combines Western psychology with a Buddhist understanding of human experience through Core Process Psychotherapy. He also works from a psychodynamic perspective, recognising the importance of early life experiences in shaping who we are and believing that understanding these experiences can help people make better sense of themselves.
A colleague who attended his sessions shared that his specialist training in trauma and shock therapy helped create a grounded and supportive environment when working through acute stress. He also welcomes individuals navigating sexuality and gender issues. James is fully accredited with the UKCP, reflecting a high standard of professional practice and care. His fee is £65 per session, so prospective clients can easily factor this into their decision when considering therapy.
2. Edinburgh CBT & Counselling Services
Website: https://www.edinburghcbt.com/
Social Media:
Address: 14 South Trinity Road, Edinburgh, EH5 3NR
Contact: +44 7534 672561; [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Edinburgh CBT & Counselling Services provides a welcoming and professional psychotherapy practice focused on delivering evidence-based mental health support in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Their services are available for young people aged 7 and above, adults, couples, groups, and corporate clients, making support accessible to individuals with a variety of needs.
The practice places Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centred Therapy at the heart of its approach, with therapists highly qualified in both modalities. Additional evidence-based approaches, including EMDR therapy, are incorporated where appropriate to create personalised treatment plans tailored to each client’s goals, challenges, and preferred way of working.
One of the standout features of Edinburgh CBT & Counselling Services is its team of BABCP-accredited therapists and experienced counsellors who work across multiple therapeutic approaches. Clients can feel reassured knowing they are receiving support from qualified professionals committed to maintaining high standards of practice and ethical care.
Inclusion is central to the practice’s philosophy, with flexible pricing, appointment times, and therapy available in multiple languages to help make mental health support more accessible. Rather than operating waiting lists, the team aims to find clients a suitable appointment somewhere across the week whenever possible or will signpost them to trusted colleagues within their professional network who can help.
The practice also prioritises creating a calm, confidential, and non-judgemental environment where clients can openly discuss their thoughts and emotions. Whether attending sessions in person or online, individuals are encouraged to work collaboratively with their therapist toward meaningful and lasting personal growth.
Beyond individual counselling, the practice offers a wide range of specialist services, including trauma-focused CBT, EMDR therapy, relationship counselling, group therapy, clinical supervision, menopause support, and multilingual services. This breadth of expertise enables the team to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of personal and professional needs.
Edinburgh CBT & Counselling Services further improves accessibility through multiple clinic locations, online therapy, and convenient Saturday clinics, making support easier to access for young people, working parents, and anyone with a busy schedule. Its combination of highly qualified therapists, personalised care, and commitment to timely access makes it a strong choice for those seeking evidence-based psychotherapy in a supportive setting.
Her practice is a calming and caring place to be
I rent office space from ecbt, not only is it a lovely peaceful space to work from but Jacqueline is a responsive and thoughtful landlord. Her practice is a calming and caring place to be, as a client and as a practitioner and I’d highly recommend for those either looking for therapy or for a therapeutic room to work from.
Sarah Silverberg | Google Review
She created a calm, non-judgemental space
I had a really positive experience with Miriam. She created a calm, non-judgemental space where I felt comfortable talking openly. She was an excellent listener and helped me explore my own thoughts and patterns. I came away with a much better understanding of myself and some practical tools that I’ll continue to use. I’d highly recommend both Miriam and Edinburgh CBT & Counselling Services.
Rob John Hillier | Google Review
3. Exclusive Hypnotherapy Edinburgh
Website:https://www.exclusivehypnotherapy.co.uk/
Address: 10 Biggar Rd
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
Sometimes traditional talk therapy doesn’t feel like enough to break through entrenched patterns.
Robin at Exclusive Hypnotherapy Edinburgh holds the title of the longest-established, fully qualified Hypno-Psychotherapist in the city with an impressive 33 years of practice.
He brings a massive track record to his clients, having conducted over 20,000 successful sessions throughout his career.
We like that he works as the Clinical Director of Ellis REBT (Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy), directly alongside the wife of the creator of cognitive therapy.
By applying Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy alongside hypnotherapy, he offers a highly specialised and scientifically trialled avenue for healing. This specific approach tackles a huge variety of challenges, from agoraphobia to sports psychology.
Clients even receive extra therapeutic aids to keep making progress at home.
However, because his methods heavily feature hypnotherapy, it might not be the right fit if you’re strictly looking for standard cognitive behavioural therapy.
I genuinely feel a lot better about things
This man is incredible! I was actually recommended by a good client of mine who has had such success going to Robin. I have had only a few sessions with Robin now, and each time I leave, I genuinely feel a lot better about things. His professionalism & extreme knowledge is outstanding. I really do feel a change for me with my work and personal life which is very important, as I have dealing with daily anxiety from both. Thank you very much Robin.
Frankie | Google Review
Massive improvement in my mental wellbeing
I’ve only had 2 sessions with Robin so far but I’ve already noticed a massive improvement in my mental wellbeing. Robin is very friendly and professional. I was really nervous for my first session but he made me feel very safe and supported. I am grateful to have discovered Robin. Although I have only had a couple of sessions, I feel it has been a life changing experience.
Sarah King | Google Review
4. My Solution Wellbeing Counselling Edinburgh
Website:https://www.mysolutionwellbeing.com/
Address: 1st Colme Street
Contact: 0131 210 0395
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 AM–8 PM
Waiting months for an appointment can be agonising when you’re actively struggling with burnout or anxiety.
My Solution Wellbeing Counselling Edinburgh steps up by promising absolutely no waiting lists, matching you with a professional within two days of reaching out.
I actually booked a consultation through their system last year, and the prompt response was such a relief during a stressful period.
Every professional on their team carries at least five years of experience and has passed a full DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) background check. And if you don’t click with your assigned person, you can easily request a change.
They also provide convenient online assessments for conditions like ADHD or depression to help figure out your next steps.
Just keep in mind that they enforce a strict cancellation policy, meaning you lose your fee without a refund if you miss the 48-hour notice window.
Guided me through that process with so much care
I highly recommend my therapist Helen. I came to therapy to work through past trauma and learn acceptance, and she has guided me through that process with so much care and compassion. She creates a space that feels safe, non-judgmental, and supportive, which has made it easier for me to open up and do the hard work. She explains things clearly, moves at a pace that feels manageable, and checks in often to make sure I am not overwhelmed.
I M | Google Review
Compassionate guidance and effective therapy
I can’t thank Jack enough for his incredible support at my Solution Wellbeing Counseling Edinburgh. I started therapy with him to work on my claustrophobia, which has been affecting my daily life for years. Through his calm, patient, and professional approach, I have been able to overcome challenges I never thought I could face. Jack created a safe and understanding space where I always felt comfortable and listened to. Thanks to his help, I now feel much more confident and free. I truly recommend Jack to anyone looking for real, compassionate guidance and effective therapy.
Alvaro Villoria | Google Review
5. One Psychology – Online Psychological Services UK
Website:https://www.theonepsychology.com/
Address: Lothian
Contact: +44 131 5070378
Hours: Wednesday to Friday 1 PM–8 PM, Saturday 2 PM–7 PM
High-stress professionals often need flexible, evidence-based interventions to manage intense schedules and relational conflicts.
One Psychology is founded and run by highly qualified Clinical Psychologists who deliver strictly doctoral-level care.
Their expertise spans both individual therapy and customised corporate training, tackling heavy topics like conflict resolution and burnout recovery.
They even offer specialised couples therapy to navigate dynamic issues like broken trust or communication hurdles.
Because the psychological techniques they use are strictly evidence-based, clients can expect a high degree of clinical reliability. Plus, they accept major health insurance providers, making their premium services a bit more accessible.
The flexibility here is fantastic for busy executives, as almost all sessions happen virtually.
But, because they function heavily as an online psychological service, they won’t be the best pick for Edinburgh locals who strongly prefer sitting in a room face-to-face.
Helped me frame the work that needed doing
I have been attending online sessions with Dr Bea for about a year and a half. It has been life changing. She is kind, engaging, and is an excellent fit as a therapist for me.
Dr Bea’s approach considers many different ways of looking at things and really centres around having compassion for yourself. The balance between exploring different or even uncomfortable ways of thinking and then challenging them helped me frame the work that needed doing, and Bea’s varied and vast knowledge was there to encourage me to do the work.
Scott Hunter | Google Review
One of the best choices I have ever made
I cannot recommend Bea enough. She is incredibly supportive and kind, always making space for you to work through things at your own pace. There is a really healthy emphasis on being able to continue applying therapy techniques on your own, so you are not overly reliant on the sessions. One of the best choices I have ever made was to start sessions with Bea; she has helped me enormously.
Emma Hill | Google Review
6. Gin Lalli – Solution Focused Therapy
Website:https://ginlalli.com/
Address: Online via Zoom
Contact: 07590 317 318
Hours: Monday to Wednesday 12 PM–7:30 PM, Thursday 12 PM–5 PM, Friday 12 PM–3 PM
Open-ended weekly sessions don’t always appeal to everyone, especially if you prefer a clear roadmap to feeling better.
Gin Lalli practices a specific Solution-Focused Therapy that uses neuroscience to help you understand your brain and empty your mental “stress bucket.”
Instead of indefinite appointments, she guides clients through a set 10-week online intensive program via Zoom. This structured format teaches sustainable stress management skills and actually includes unlimited sessions during that time frame.
And we love that she incorporates NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) recommended guidelines for sleep issues, which is brilliant for anyone dealing with chronic insomnia.
Clients also unlock a wealth of extra resources, including her published book and relaxation recordings. She also offers a free initial consultation to see if her style fits your personality.
Just be aware that her program requires a fairly large upfront financial commitment of £1,295, which might be tough for a standard therapy budget.
Our conversations really put life into perspective
Wonderful experience. I personally have never been to any kind of therapy and as a first timer, I can honestly say that it’s hard to put into words how helpful Gin has been. Our conversations really put life into perspective and she has helped me become my best self again. She is full of practical advice, positive energy and provides lots of useful coping tools in day-to-day life. Huge thank you Gin, your solution focussed approach is simply the best.
Vero Reyes | Google Review
Helped me find and become the very best version of myself
My solution focussed therapy with Gin Lalli has been a life changer. She has helped me find and become the very best version of myself, which has meant that I am now excelling in all areas of my life. From the very first session, I experienced and unforgettable “light bulb moment” that literally lit up the way forward and I have never looked back. She is engaging and warm and put me at ease from the very first moment we met. I can’t recommend her enough. If I could give more than 5 stars – I would.
Helen Lund | Google Review