How to Find a Counsellor in the UK: NHS and Private Routes
How to find a counsellor in the UK: NHS Talking Therapies and self-referral, private counselling costs, low-cost options and checking registration.
Workplace Counselling and Employee Assistance Programmes
How workplace counselling and Employee Assistance Programmes work: what’s offered, confidentiality, how to access sessions and what to do when they end.
Key takeaways
- Many employers offer free, confidential counselling through an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
- EAPs usually provide a short series of sessions plus advice lines.
- Your employer doesn’t normally learn who used the service or what was discussed.
On this page
If your employer offers an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), you may already have access to free counselling without realising it. EAPs are one of the quickest, most underused routes to support.
What an EAP usually offers
- A confidential helpline, often 24/7
- A short course of counselling sessions, by phone, video or in person
- Practical advice on money, legal or family issues
- Manager support for handling difficult situations
The number of sessions varies, commonly a handful per issue.
Is it confidential?
EAPs are typically run by independent providers. Employers usually receive anonymous usage statistics, not names or details. Confidentiality has the usual limits, such as serious risk of harm. Ask the provider to explain their policy.
How to access it
- Check your staff handbook, intranet or benefits portal.
- Ask HR, discreetly if you prefer; you don’t need to say why.
- Call the helpline for an assessment and to book sessions.
When EAP sessions end
Short-term counselling helps many people. If you need longer support:
- Ask the EAP counsellor for recommendations
- Self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies in England; see how to find a counsellor in the UK
- Consider private counselling; see counselling costs
Work stress and burnout
If work itself is the problem, counselling can help alongside practical changes. Our guide to burnout signs and recovery covers both.
Frequently asked questions
Will my manager know I used the EAP?
Usually not. Providers typically share only anonymous statistics. Check your EAP’s confidentiality policy.
Can I use the EAP for non-work problems?
Yes. EAPs usually cover personal issues too, such as relationships, grief and money worries.
Can family members use my EAP?
Some programmes include household members. Check your scheme.
Sources
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Keep reading
What Happens in Your First Counselling Session
Nervous about your first counselling session? What usually happens, the questions you may be asked, confidentiality and how to make it work for you.
How Much Does Counselling Cost in the UK?
What counselling costs in the UK: typical private fees, free NHS talking therapies, low-cost and sliding-scale options, workplace schemes and questions to ask.