The Meeting Matters Team · 2026-10-07
Cost should never be the reason someone goes without support. If you are looking for free or low-cost counselling in Pakistan, there are real options, from free helplines to public hospital services, though availability and waiting times vary. This guide sets out what exists, what to expect, and where a private clinic can fit in. We are a private clinic, so we list the free options first.
Free Helplines
Helplines are a good first step if you want to talk to someone now, and they cost nothing.
- Umang Mental Health Helpline: 0311-7786264. Umang describes itself as Pakistan's first 24/7 mental health helpline, staffed by clinical psychologists, therapists, counsellors and psychiatrists.
- Rozan Counselling Helpline: 0304-111-1741. Rozan offers confidential counselling support, and also lists a toll-free number, 0800-22-444. Check rozan.org for current helpline hours.
- National Youth Helpline: 0800-69457, offering psychosocial support and counselling for young people during daytime hours.
If you or someone near you is in immediate danger, call Rescue 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Public and Institutional Services
Government teaching hospitals run psychiatry outpatient departments, often at very low cost, although waiting times can be long and the availability of psychological therapy varies. Some universities and institutes also run counselling centres, for example the National Institute of Psychology at Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad. It is worth calling to ask who they serve and what is offered.
Community and NGO Support
Some organisations and community groups offer counselling at reduced or no cost. Availability changes, so it helps to ask directly about fees, eligibility and waiting times.
Where a Private Clinic Fits In
Free services are valuable, but they can have limits on waiting times, session numbers or the type of therapy offered. A private clinic can offer a specific therapist, regular weekly sessions and evening or weekend slots. At The Meeting Matters, sessions range from PKR 5,000 to PKR 15,000, with a 20 percent discount for students, and sessions are available online as well as in person in Islamabad.
Practical Ways to Make Support More Affordable
- Use a free helpline first to talk things through, then decide on next steps.
- If you are a student, ask about student discounts. We offer 20 percent off every session.
- Ask how many sessions are likely, so you can plan the cost.
- Combine a few paid sessions with free support between them.
You can read more about how much therapy costs in Pakistan and what to expect in your first therapy session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free online therapy in Pakistan?
Some helplines offer free phone or messaging support, but ongoing therapy with a named psychologist is usually paid. Helplines are best for immediate support and guidance.
Is marriage counselling free?
Some helplines and community organisations provide limited free guidance, but structured marriage counselling with a psychologist is usually a paid service. See how much marriage counseling costs.
Can I get help if I cannot afford regular sessions?
Start with a free helpline, then talk to a clinic about the plan and any discounts. A short, focused course can be more affordable than open-ended therapy.
Take the Next Step
If you would like to talk to one of our psychologists, you can book an appointment. We are not an emergency or crisis service, and in an emergency please call Rescue 1122.