How Much Does Private CBT Cost?

“How much does private CBT cost?” is one of the most common questions I’m asked, and one of the most sensible. Therapy is an investment of time, energy and money, and you deserve clear answers before you begin.

What private CBT typically costs

Across Bristol and the South West, private CBT sessions commonly fall within a broad range that depends on the therapist’s training, accreditation and experience. At the point of writing this in 2026, my sessions are £95 for 50 minutes.

What you’re paying for

It isn’t only the time in the room. With an accredited CBT therapist, your fee reflects:

• Years of training. I privately funded my Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy training at the University of Oxford in 2015, juggling studying whilst working part time in the NHS.
• Ongoing supervision, professional indemnity insurance and BABCP accreditation, which come with a code of ethics, confidentiality and data protection standards.
• Continuous Professional Development. Ongoing training to ensure my skills and knowledge remain up to date with the evidence base.
• Preparation and planning so that each session is used well.
• A private, calm space. Sessions are held at The Little Barn, away from clinical corridors and waiting rooms. Rather than whispered voices in the next room, you’re likely to hear sheep baa-ing in the field next door, or horses clip clopping down the country road.

How many sessions might I need?

It depends on what you’re working on. CBT is structured and goal-focused, and many people notice some benefit within a few sessions, though how quickly things change depends on the individual. Straightforward difficulties often take fewer sessions than long-standing or complex ones. We’d review progress together regularly, so you’re never left guessing.

Ways to make it more affordable

• Check your health insurance. Many policies cover CBT. I’m approved by AXA PPP, Aviva, Cigna and Healix, so it’s worth checking your cover before you book.
• Check your employer. Some workplaces offer an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with free or subsidised sessions.
• Consider the NHS. NHS Talking Therapies is free and excellent, and it may be the right starting point for you. I’m a big supporter of the NHS, having worked in it myself.

Is it worth it?

Only you can decide, but a fair way to weigh it up: CBT gives you skills you keep. The aim isn’t to keep you in therapy for as long as possible. It’s to help you become your own therapist so that you can manage things independently.

Next step

Not sure whether I’m the right fit? Get in touch for an initial conversation. There’s no obligation to continue afterwards.