Currently Closed to New Requests

Unfortunately, the PF is not able to accept new Requests for counselling at the moment.

Our waiting list is currently closed to new requests.

Due to huge demand, we will not be able to accept new applications for the foreseeable future. Please go to the Resources pages on our website for information on other agencies and self-help guides. You are invited to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook to receive notification when we reopen for new clients, and any additional announcements.

Regrettable Limited Capacity

The PF Counselling Service deeply regrets that it cannot meet the needs of all those who would like to receive counselling/psychotherapy from the volunteer counsellors who support our service. We have a maximum capacity to see around 350 weekly clients at any one time.  We usually offer counselling to around 40 new clients each month, which is both a substantial amount for a voluntary organisation, and our limit.

As a small, independently funded local charity we simply cannot expect to be able to meet the demand for mental health and wellbeing services in Edinburgh and the Lothians. We try to make what contribution we can, but it is limited by our organisational capacity.

Waiting Lists Closed

In recent years we have had to close completely to new clients for lengthy periods, while we work through existing requests.  We used to have lists of those who had requested counselling, lists of those waiting to make their request, and an unknown number of people who were not on either list!

We currently have a list of many potential clients who have been waiting patiently for a number of weeks. It is for this reason that we are closed to new clients for the foreseeable future. Of course, we will re-open for new requests as soon as progress through this list allows. When we do, we will announce this on our Instagram, Twitter and Facebook pages.

Managing Expectations

We hope that this gives a little bit more information about how we work, and will help everyone to understand our situation and manage expectations. We understand how frustrating it is to be on a waiting list, and not even to be able to get onto that list.