If you’re thinking about speaking to a counsellor, that’s a brave and positive step – well done. Talking things through with someone trained to help can make a huge difference. But one common question people ask is:

“Do I need to go through my GP to get counselling?”

The short answer is: Not always.
In London, there are lots of free counselling options, and many of them don’t need a GP referral. Here’s a guide to help you understand your choices.

1. You Don’t Always Need a GP

Let’s start with the good news: you can get free counselling without speaking to your doctor.

There are services in London – both online and in-person – that you can access on your own, especially if you’re:

• Feeling low or anxious

• Struggling with school, work, relationships or family

• Finding it hard to cope with day-to-day life

You don’t have to wait until things get really bad. If something feels wrong, it’s okay to ask for help now.

2. Free Online Counselling Without a GP – Try Kooth

If you’re aged 10 to 25 and live in London, Kooth.com might be the best place to start.

Kooth is a free, safe, and anonymous mental health platform where you can:

• Chat to a real counsellor online – no appointment or GP referral needed

• Read helpful articles and advice

• Join discussion boards and hear from others like you

• Write about how you’re feeling in a private journal

Kooth is trusted by the NHS and schools across the UK, and it’s easy to sign up and get started today. Just visit www.kooth.com and enter your area to see if it’s available to you.

3. NHS Talking Therapies (16+) – Self-Referral is Available

If you’re 16 or older, you can also refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies in London.

These services offer free counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for people who are struggling with:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Stress

• Panic attacks

• Sleep problems

You can find your local service and refer yourself directly at:
👉 www.nhs.uk/talk

Again, no GP required.

4. When Might I Need to See a GP?

There are a few cases where your GP can be really helpful:

• If you’re not sure what kind of support you need

• If your mental health is affecting your physical health

• If you might need medication or a mental health diagnosis

• If you want a referral to more specialist NHS services (like CAMHS for under-18s)

Your GP is there to support you – not judge you – and will help you find the right service.

You Have Options

So, if you’re asking, “Do I need a GP to get counselling in London?” – the answer is not usually.

You can:

✅ Use Kooth for online, no-pressure counselling
✅ Refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies if you’re 16+
✅ Call or message support services like The Mix or Shout if you need to talk right now
✅ Visit your GP if you need help deciding what’s best for you

Whatever you choose, just know this: you’re not alone, and support is out there.

Taking that first step is a big deal – and you’ve already started.