Availability : Edinburgh Wide
Who is this for?
Open to everyone
Description
Connections is a Community Interest Company offering in-person counselling in Edinburgh, and online across the UK. It was created as a place where therapeutic relationships can support growth for both clients and counsellors.
We recognise the ongoing mental health crisis and the role that financial barriers play in preventing people from accessing support. In response, Connections offers an income dependant, pay-what-you-choose, tiered pricing model to increase accessibility.
This approach sits within our wider values, which include accessibility, compassion and a commitment to not being financially punitive. For example, clients are not penalised for late cancellations or missed sessions.
Connections also aim to reduce the isolation often experienced by counsellors by fostering a supportive, values-led professional community. All connections counsellors work in alignment with the organisation’s core values.
How do I access this?
- Self referral
Is there a cost?
At Connections, counselling operates on a Choose Your Contribution model.
We set three minimum starting points to ensure both accessibility and sustainability. Clients choose the level that reflects their current financial circumstances.
- Tier 1 – Community Rate. From £1 per session. For those on low or no income.
- Tier 2 – Sustainability Rate. From £40 per session. For those earning under £30,000.
- Tier 3 – Supporter Rate. From £55 per session. For those earning over £30,000 or who want to contribute more.
All contributions above the starting points go directly towards our Community rate fund (Tier 1). This expands access to counselling, supporting others to seek growth and change. For example, someone paying £45 in the Sustainability rate is contributing £5 to the Community rate fund. Someone choosing to pay £70 in our Supporter rate is contributing £15 to the Community rate fund.
We do not ask for proof of income. We trust clients to choose the rate and contribution that feels right to them.
There is a waiting list of around 3-4 months for our Tier 1 Community rate service. This is funded through donations, with every £600 raised enabling up to 15 sessions for someone who may not otherwise afford counselling.
Location information
Connections is based within the Out of the Blue Drill Hall, a multi-functional community arts venue.
Our rooms are located at the back left of the main hall on the ground floor. We have two counselling rooms and a reception area with free tea, coffee and water.
There is also a public café at the entrance to the venue, which is open to the public Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm.
Opening times
The Drill Hall is open Monday to Saturday, 10am–5pm, at 34 Dalmeny St, EH6 8RG.
Connections operates administrative hours during standard business times, with in-person counselling sessions available seven days a week, 9am–9pm and online sessions available from 8am to 10pm.
