What to do when you think you need counselling but can't afford it?

[kittyfishersknickers]

Another thread on the same theme, so apologies.

After quite a lot going on I feel I need counselling. I haven't got on very well with it in the past but would like to give it another go. I have had nightmares about being attacked and raped and my sex drive has completely fallen off a cliff. I cannot contemplate having another relationship or trusting anyone (although this will probably change I know sooner or later).

But I have recently given up a pretty well-paid job to retrain for a different career and there is no way I can spare 50 quid a week for private counselling. I know it can sometimes be had on the NHS but as I have to wait 3 weeks for a GP appt (in central London) I think I'd be waiting a while. Plus there are probably people who need it more.

Are there any books that are good?

It is still worth asking. You may not even need to go via your GP, most London IAPT services now allow self-referral. All the services have CBT and trauma focussed CBT therapy may be available to you.
Find your service here www.workingforwellness.org.uk/resources/general-information/search-map/

If you are looking more for supportive counselling, you are also really well served in London by organisations who train counsellors and where you can see trainees at a reduced rate.
I'd start with your local NHS service though and see what they recommend.

For self-reading, this is written by an excellent therapist
www.amazon.co.uk/Keys-Safe-Trauma-Recovery-Take-charge/dp/0393706052/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_2

Another thing I would do is to approach a few counsellors/therapists in private practice and ask if they offer concessionary rates - many of them do, and I know my last therapist did.

They will ask you to pay something, though, because that exchange is a vital part of the therapy itself. But it might be something far more manageable than £50 a week. Some offer as low as £15 - £20 concessions.

Amazon is your friend! And also any relevant mumsnet threads - I've found the stately homes lot and the adult survivors threads both very helpful.

Do you have any children under five?

I have never paid for counselling and have had it twice in my life with the option of a third quite intensive long term. It is free on NHS the only problem is you will have to wait. You will be prioritised on your need though.

I was in central london when I had it btw.

I found a local centre which offers both counselling, and trains counsellors. They had a range of different options, including working with a counsellor who was fully qualified, but less experienced. I decided to meet this person and see whether we clicked. It worked out brilliantly in the end and only cost £20 per session.

There are organisations that offer counselling and charge based on your income. Try Tavistock & Portman and the Women's Therapy Centre.
www.tavistockandportman.nhs.uk/

www.womenstherapycentre.co.uk/

www.tavistockandportman.nhs.uk/

www.womenstherapycentre.co.uk/

Cool - thank you. I don't have a child under 5 but the other options sound doable. I don't mind paying at all, just can't stretch to 50 pounds atm.

Would your local rape crisis centre be able to provide counselling free or at reduced cost?