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HQ Therapy

Find the right therapist for you

Counselling and psychotherapy in East and North London, and online across the UK.

Trusted by hundreds of clients

100+ therapists · 40+ approaches · East & North London locations · BACP/UKCP standards

Why human connection matters in therapy

AI chatbots and mental health apps have their place, but they cannot replace the irreplaceable elements of human therapy. Real therapeutic change happens in relationship — in the space between two people who are paying attention to each other.

A human therapist notices when your voice changes, senses when you’re deflecting with humour, and sits with you in uncomfortable silences that turn out to be the most important moments. This is attunement — and no algorithm can replicate it.

At HQ Therapy, every one of our therapists — qualified or in training — brings their full human presence to the room. That’s the foundation everything else is built on.

Common questions

How do I choose between a qualified therapist and a trainee?

It depends on your preferences and what feels right for you — both options deliver effective therapy. Qualified therapists set their own fees (typically £50–£120 per session) and bring years of post-qualification experience. Trainee therapists are on advanced postgraduate programmes and work under dual supervision — sessions range from £27 to £45 depending on the number you commit to. Research consistently shows that the therapeutic relationship matters more than the therapist's experience level, so both paths lead to meaningful progress.

Does HQ Therapy offer online therapy?

Yes, many of our therapists offer online sessions via secure video call. You can filter by online availability when browsing our therapist directory. Online therapy is just as effective as in-person for most concerns, and it removes the barrier of travel — particularly helpful if you're outside London or have a busy schedule.

What issues and conditions do you work with?

We work with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, stress, OCD, eating difficulties, and many more. Our therapists offer 40+ therapeutic approaches, so whatever you're experiencing, there's likely someone on our team who specialises in it. Browse our full list of issues to find therapists with relevant expertise.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Most qualified therapists can offer an initial consultation within one to two weeks. For low-cost trainee therapy, you'll first attend an in-person assessment (usually available within a week or two), then be matched with a trainee therapist who typically begins sessions within two to three weeks of your assessment. We know that reaching out is the hardest step, so we work to keep waiting times as short as possible.

Is everything I say in therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential. What you share stays between you and your therapist. The only exceptions are rare situations where there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else — your therapist will explain this clearly in your first session. Trainee therapists discuss their work in clinical supervision, but your identity is protected and supervisors are bound by the same confidentiality standards.

What happens in a first therapy session?

Your first session is about getting to know each other. Your therapist will ask about what's brought you to therapy, a bit about your background, and what you're hoping to get from the process. There's no pressure to share everything at once — you set the pace. It's also your chance to see if you feel comfortable with your therapist. Think of it as a two-way conversation, not an interview.

Take the first step today

Whether you choose a qualified therapist, low-cost trainee therapy, or our matching assessment, you’re choosing real human support.