The 6 best psychologists in London who genuinely care and listen
A few months ago, my friend brushed off his burnout as “just being tired.” He was constantly exhausted, increasingly irritable, and snapping at the people he cared about. He kept telling himself it would pass.
It didn’t.
When he finally searched for a psychologist, he had no idea where to start. Everyone looked qualified. Every clinic promised results. He had no clue what actually mattered or how to choose the right professional.
Desperate to help, I gathered my team and did the hard work. We dug into credentials, approaches, and real patient experiences. Below are the psychologists in London we found to be genuinely reliable and worth considering.
How much does a psychologist charge in London?
A psychologist in London may charge £100 to £250 per session, depending on the practitioner’s experience. Typically, initial consultations and specialised assessments are more expensive than follow-up appointments.
1. Dr Ashling Doherty, Counselling & Psychotherapy Service
Address: Flat 1, 8 Akenside Terrace, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1TN
Contact Details: 07871 301 079
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 – 7:00 PM
Dr Ashling Doherty is a private psychologist based in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, offering compassionate and professional psychological support. While the clinic is located in Newcastle, Dr Ashling also provides online and phone therapy, giving clients greater flexibility and access to care without the need to travel. This approach helps reduce common barriers such as scheduling constraints, while maintaining the same standards of confidentiality and support as in-person sessions.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr Ashling offers a calm, confidential environment where clients feel safe, heard, and understood. Her work is grounded in creating a therapeutic space that supports trust, reflection, and meaningful change.
As a Chartered Counselling Psychologist and HCPC-registered practitioner, Dr Ashling brings a high level of clinical credibility to her practice. Her professional membership with the British Psychological Society reflects a strong commitment to ethical standards and evidence-based care.
Dr Ashling’s practice focuses on relationships, with self and others. Her work is trauma-informed, drawing on a psychodynamic and integrative approach alongside forward-focused goal setting to support lasting change. She adapts her methods flexibly to meet the diverse needs and experiences of each client.
Before transitioning fully into private practice, Dr Ashling worked part-time within the NHS as a specialist in weight management. This experience strengthened her expertise in mindfulness, self-esteem, and body image, which continue to inform her therapeutic approach today.
In 2021, Dr Ashling established her private clinic in Jesmond with the intention of creating a peaceful and secure setting. The thoughtfully designed space reflects her emphasis on emotional safety, comfort, and client wellbeing.
Client feedback frequently highlights Dr Ashling’s kindness, patience, and depth of insight. Many describe her support as transformative, crediting her work with meaningful improvements in their mental health, relationships, and self-understanding.
Consideration: Dr Ashling works exclusively with private-paying clients or those using private health insurance, as NHS-funded sessions are not available.
Overall, Dr Ashling Doherty offers experienced, relationship-focused psychological care delivered with empathy, professionalism, and flexibility—both in person and remotely—for clients seeking thoughtful and trauma-informed support.
Ash provides a welcoming, safe space to talk.
“Ash provides a welcoming, safe space to talk. She’s calming, compassionate, friendly and approachable and has helped steer me through difficult times and allowed me the space to align with my true, authentic self. I can’t recommend her highly enough.”
–Debs Southwood, Facebook Review
2. London Psychologist Centre
Address: 3 Lynwood Dr, Worcester Park
Contact Details: +447539281958
Operating Hours:
London Psychologist Centre is a great pick if you want professional support without the cold, clinical atmosphere that can make therapy intimidating.
From our perspective and conversation with others, they strike a great balance between professionalism and genuine human connection.
We appreciate how their psychologist creates a comfortable environment. Clients mentioned being able to speek freely without being cut off and feeling rushed. A lot of people also shared that they feel genuinely understood and heard after every session.
It’s also a plus that the clinic offers various therapy methods, like cognitive behaviour therapy, counselling, and the human givens approach. Having multiple options makes it easier for clients to find an approach that actually works for them.
We also love how supportive they are outside of sessions. They provide tools and resources to their clients, which helps them continue working on their mental health between appointments.
Their 20 years of experience is also imprressive. That gained them a clear edge when it comes to understanding a wide range of mental health challenges and providing practical support.
The only hitch is that they have a small team, which could potentially affect their availability.
Comfortable and safe environment
“Lauretta makes you feel comfortable and safe during sessions. She’s kind, easy to talk to and extremely knowledgeable in her field. Excited and proud of the progress I’ve made so far in managing my OCD/GAD. Thank you!”
-Ms. E BB, Google Review
Helpful session
“We had a very helpful session with Lauretta today, the summary feedback assessment was very helpful and reassuring”
-Ms. Meera Raymond, Google Review
3. Dr Siobhan McCarthy (UK Psychologists)
Address: 39 Gilkes Cres
Contact Details: +447796530406
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: Open 24 Hours
If you’re new to therapy and don’t know where to start, Dr Siobhan McCarthy makes the whole process feel a lot less scary. She has a way of easing people into therapy without making it feel overwhelming or formal.
There’s a genuinely friendly atmosphere in her sessions, and many clients describe it as feeling more like having a conversation with someone they trust rather than a clinical appointment.
Dr. Siobhan’s team is also composed of well-experienced psychologists. She has therapists and psychologists who have years of experience in providing effective adult, couples, and child therapy. She also has a psychiatrist on board.
Having such a solid team means they’re able to support more clients who genuinely need help rather than having long waiting lists.
We also appreciate that they accept coverage from insurance companies like Aviva, Vitality, and Allianz. This is good news for those who want to access professional support without worrying about large upfront costs.
A small drawback is that there are occasional reports of appointments starting a little late. It’s a good idea to plan some extra time just in case.
Incredible psychologist
“I had therapy with Siobhan for 18 months, and she is honestly incredible. She is very patient and helped me find the tools and confidence to navigate the challenges of life. I am really grateful for her support and couldn’t recommend her enough.”
-Mr. Aoife Cauneze, Google Review
Smart and professional
“I started having regular sessions with Siobhan last year.
She has helped me in so many ways and I cannot recommend her highly enough. She is a very smart and kind professional and every session made me feel very comfortable.
I have had mixed experiences in the past with other therapists but she has really made me believe in the process.”
-Ms. Morgan Hooper, Google Review
4. Harley Therapy
Address: 10 Harley St
Contact Details: +443454741724
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Harley Therapy keeps things simple as they welcome self-referrals. It’s a big thing for us since some clinics require a General Practitioner (GP) referral, which can slow down the process.
Their pool of psychologists also caught our attention. They thoroughly hand-picked each one to make sure that their clients receive approachable and experienced support for their needs.
We also love that they’re not selective about their clients. They cater to couples and families, teenagers, and even corporate staff. They actually made their therapies accessible to a wide range of people with different needs and life situations.
Their counselling services are also well-structured, with clear session plans and practical tools. This helps clients feel the guidance and care even outside their session hours.
The clinic space is another win in our book. The space feels more like a comfortable lounge than a clinical office, which we think helps clients relax and settle in more easily.
However, their pricing is something to consider. They’re a bit expensive compared to other clinics.
Reassuring experience
“My experience with Harley Therapy – Psychotherapy & Counselling was very reassuring and positive. The psychologist was attentive, understanding, and handled every session with great professionalism. I felt listened to and supported throughout the process. Their counselling services are well-structured and genuinely helpful. Highly recommended for anyone seeking trusted mental health support.”
-Ms. Anna Blair, Google Review
Compassionate and supportive
“My overall experience with Harley Therapy – Psychotherapy & Counselling was outstanding. The team was extremely supportive, compassionate, and maintained a very friendly yet professional approach. The psychologist took time to understand my concerns and provided thoughtful guidance throughout the sessions. I felt genuinely supported and would highly recommend their counselling services to anyone seeking professional mental health care.”
-Ms. Alice Coles, Google Review
5. KlearMinds Therapy
Address: 11/12 Tokenhouse Yard
Contact Details: +443337720256
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
KlearMinds Therapy is all about making therapy approachable and easy to stick with, especially if you’re trying it for the first time. They’re focused on providing a relaxed, supportive space so you can open up without feeling overwhelmed.
One thing that really supports this approach is their free initial telephone consultations. This gives clients a chance to ask questions and get a feel for their therapist before committing to a full session.
The convenience of their online therapies also makes it easier for clients to continue with their care despite their busy schedules.
We’re also impressed by the range of concerns they support. From anxiety to chronic fatigue, KlearMinds Therapy is well-equipped to help clients dealing with both mental and emotional challenges.
Another standout offering that we didn’t see a lot in other psychology clinics in London is their confidence coaching and career coaching. We find it a great option for people who want practical, goal-focused support alongside traditional therapy.
What we also love about KlearMinds Therapy is that they have clinic directors who match you with the right psychologist. This is a great way to ensure you’re paired with someone whose approach suits your needs.
We’re just disappointed with their email communication. They’re very slow to respond, with some clients even noting they didn’t receive any response at all. We’d recommend calling their office to avoid delays.
Supportive and insightful
“I had therapy sessions with Maggie every other week for six months and they we invaluable. Maggie was amazing — supportive, insightful, and easy to talk to. Each session gave me tools and perspectives that I still reflect on today, long after our sessions ended. The work we did together continues to help me navigate challenges more effectively. If I ever felt I needed support again, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Maggie.”
-Ms. Sarah, Google Review
Professional and helpful service
“Tania Turner from Klearminds has been absolutely great. Would highly recommend her services. She is patient, helpful, professional and has had a great impact on helping us to communicate better and manage life changing events as a couple.”
-Mr. Anon WD, Google Review
6. Therapy Central
Address: Floor 3, 50 Great Portland St
Contact Details: +442034882797
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Therapy Central is one of the best psychologists in London for those looking for accessible, well-rounded support. They offer a wide range of support, from depression counselling to panic attack treatment.
One of the things we liked about Therapy Central is that it offers online therapy sessions. This feels especially helpful for introverts or for anyone who isn’t quite ready to attend in-person sessions but still wants professional guidance.
Their team of psychologists and counsellors is impressive too. Each brings their own approach to the table, allowing clients to be matched with a practitioner who genuinely understands and can support their specific concerns.
Another point in their favour is insurance coverage. Accepting providers like AXA, Cigna, and Bupa makes therapy feel far more accessible, especially for those worrying about out-of-pocket costs.
Their clinic is also calming with comfy seating, soft lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere that puts you at ease the moment you sit.
The only disadvantage? Their email and phone service is unresponsive, which can be frustrating if you’re urgently looking for help.
Patient and understanding psychologist
“I have been working with Nicholas at Therapy Central for over a year now. I started the process with a lot of scepticism, however it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. Nicholas has been extremely patient, understanding and has pushed me just the right amount. I went to him during one of the hardest times of my life and I am quite sure, I wouldn’t be happier and healthier without his support and knowledge.”
-Ms. Debika Sen Chaudhury, Google Review
Honest and compassionate
“Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for support. It’s a scary thing to seek help for feelings and thoughts but I am so glad I did, the care I received was brilliant. I found Anna to be great at allowing me to see my own potential through her methods, for how I could improve my mental health, she is a very compassionate and honest person, easy to talk to and gave me a great help throughout my therapy. The advice and tools I learned throughout my sessions have allowed me to be a happier, more content and stronger person and I am really grateful to Anna for that.”
-Ms. Sarah Guilfoyle, Google Review