Amica recommends that clients seeking more longer term counselling (more than eight sessions) should access their GP, or look for practitioners or organisations who are on the register of a membership body accredited by the Government’s Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

Three of the largest and PSA-recognised counselling registers are held by:

• The National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society
• The British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy
• The United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy

Support is also available from the NHS and third-sector organisations.

NHS services

NHS Talking Therapies locally – Vita Health Group

You may meet the clinical criteria for free talking therapies if you are distressed, aged 16 or over and registered with a GP practice in Leicester City, Leicestershire County or Rutland. You can contact your GP who may arrange a referral to Vita Health, alternatively, you can self-refer via their website.

Mental health crisis support for all adults in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland – Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust

Free NHS-funded 24-hour adult mental health telephone helpline: 111 option 2.  Alternatively, you can also text 0748 063 5199 and they will aim to get back to you within 12 hours. The service can offer face-to-face support by appointment. 

NHS Talking Therapies elsewhere

This NHS England website can signpost you to your local service.

Mental health crisis support for all adults elsewhere – NHS 111

Check your symptoms with the NHS 111 online service or call 111 and choose option 2.

Other Services in Leicestershire and Rutland

The Hub of Hope is an online resource directory that signposts to local support.

Life Links provides a service that’s available to anyone who’s recovering from, or living with, mental health problems. Available to anyone aged 18 and over based in Blaby District, Leicester City, or Oadby & Wigston.