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Software for counsellors in the UK

If you're a counsellor in private practice, you need software that handles the basics well: scheduling, client records, session notes, and payments. The challenge is finding something that's actually built for counsellors rather than repurposed from a tool designed for GPs or physiotherapists. Here's what to look for and how the main options compare.

Ryan Hooper17 March 2026

What counsellors actually need from software

At minimum, you need the essentials below. Everything else is nice to have.
  • A calendar that syncs to your phone
  • Encrypted session notes
  • A way to send and sign counselling agreements
  • Automated reminders so clients don't forget sessions
  • Payment tracking so you're not chasing invoices manually
  • GDPR-compliant data storage

The main options

Bloom keeps your whole practice in one calm place, built specifically for UK therapists and counsellors. Encrypted session notes (AES-256), automated client onboarding with e-signatures, drag-and-drop scheduling, payment tracking with reminders, and a public booking page. £29/month, everything included. Learn more about Bloom.

WriteUpp has been one of the longest-running options in the UK. Good for general healthcare practitioners. From £19.95/month. Recently acquired by a Canadian company (Owl Practice). Online booking costs extra. No note encryption. Read our WriteUpp comparison.

Kiku was built by a counselling psychologist in Newcastle. Affordable (from around £16/month) and designed specifically for counsellors. Has secure messaging and a client portal. No note encryption, no e-signatures, no drag-and-drop calendar. Read our Kiku comparison.

bacpac was originally developed with BACP. Basic but reliable. Good for counsellors who just need simple records and scheduling. Around £18/month. No payment tracking, no e-signatures, dated interface. Read our bacpac comparison.

Cliniko is Australian-built and popular with physios. Works for counsellors but the features and terminology are geared toward allied health. Priced in AUD. Read our Cliniko comparison.

How to choose

If you want something built specifically for UK counsellors with strong encryption and modern features, Bloom or Kiku are your best options. If you want the cheapest basic option, bacpac or Kiku's lower tier works. If you're part of a multi-disciplinary practice, WriteUpp or Cliniko might be better fits. Avoid paying for features you'll never use - therapists don't need lab integrations, prescribing tools, or insurance billing.

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