Question:
Hi Mike! This is long – but I have had a LOT of experience with finding therapists in the UK and I’d like to help you find a good one…..bear with me…. There are lots of places to try in the UK – we’re getting there! First stop should be your GP. If your social anxiety is having a big impact on your life (i.e. you avoid LOTS of situations), you may get referred to a psychotherapist on the NHS. So it will be free!!!! However – there is a bit of a queue (what a surprise!) – but you will usually be seen within about 6 weeks. I took this process when I was 19 and VERY anxious and got seen within 6 weeks. However, when I went back recently to enquire, I was told because my anxiety was not affecting my life too much that I would have to wait six months – this is why I decided to go privately. If your GP decides you are not an ‘emergency’ case – he may refer you to a counsellor within the surgery or local NHS trust. Again, this will be free. A lot of these counsellors are trained in integrative counselling – which combines lots of techniques to help you overcome your anxiety. OK – worst case scenario – your GP doesn’t refer you free to anyone. HOWEVER, he will be able to refer you to a recommended counsellor or therapist who can help you. The costs can range from
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