Psychological Therapy for Alopecia & Hair Loss

Specialist emotional support for the psychological impact of hair loss.

From a Consultant Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with people with a visible difference or appearance change.

Request your Free 15 minute Initial Phone Call

A gentle conversation to find out whether this support feels right for you.

We understand that the effects of hair loss go far beyond the physical. In fact, many people find the emotional aspect just as difficult, if not more, than the physical and practical aspects. Your confidence, relationships with loved ones, social life, work life, mood and identity may be affected. And it doesn't matter how much or how little hair you have lost, the emotional impact can hit hard. If you're finding things tough emotionally, your feelings are valid.

Psychological therapy offers a confidential, supportive space to talk through what you're experiencing and help you develop ways to cope that feel manageable and realistic.

Meet Dr Helen Watkins - Consultant Clinical Psychologist

Psychological support is provided by Dr Helen Watkins, a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 30 years of experience. Dr Watkins specialises in helping individuals whose confidence, identity or well-being has been affected by changes in how they look and visible differences.

About Dr Watkins
Hello, I’m Helen, a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. My aim within therapy is to provide a safe space for people who are struggling with their psychological wellbeing and are keen to gain a better understanding of why this might be the
case and learn ways of moving forward in a positive direction.

I have particular interest and expertise in working with visible difference and body image issues, having previously been the service lead for the psychology service in the Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery for over 10 years.

I understand for many people seeking help can be a very daunting step to take and that it’s important to find a therapist you have confidence in and feel comfortable with. For that reason, I offer a free 15-minute phone-call prior to booking your first appointment to make sure we would be a good fit in working together.

Training, Experience and Approaches used
I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2000 and worked in various settings in the NHS until 2025. Previously I combined my part-time NHS role with part-time private practice before moving fully into independent practice in 2025.

I have trained in a number of psychological approaches and integrate these into my work depending on the issues brought to therapy. These include cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT), trauma-focussed cognitive-behaviour therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based stress reduction/cognitive therapy (MBSR/MBCT) and compassion focussed approaches. I always endeavour to take a neuro-affirmative approach with all clients.

I am registered as a Clinical Psychologist with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) and as a mindfulness teacher with the British Association of Mindfulness-based Approaches (BAMBA). I am also chartered with the British
Psychological Society (BPS).

How can therapy help me?

Therapy can help you:

Understand and process the emotional shock of hair loss
Learn effective ways to manage anxiety, stress, and low mood.
Build confidence and self-compassion.
Cope with fear about the future and uncertainty
Reduce avoidance of everyday situations
Handle reactions from others
Feel more in control again
Improve relationships affected by stress or withdrawal
Navigate social or workplace challenges that feel harder since losing hair.
Talk honestly without feeling like a burden to family or friends

Every person’s experience is unique. Each session will be tailored to you - whether your hair loss is new or something you’ve been living with for years.

Request your Free 15 minute Initial Phone Call

Why psychological support matters

Hair is closely tied to identity, gender, culture and how we see ourselves. When it changes or is lost, it can feel like losing part of who you are.

Like any significant loss, hair loss can trigger difficult feelings and it's ok to ask for help.

What's involved?

Initial Phone Call. A free, relaxed phone chat with Dr Helen at a pre-planned convenient time.
First Appointment (Assessment). Your first therapy session.
Therapy Session Appointments (on average 5-6 in total, but can vary from a few to a longer standing relationship).

Therapy is available online primarily. You can make yourself comfortable at home or anywhere you choose.

If you would prefer in person, this may also be available and can be discussed in your Initial Phone Call.

How much does expert Clinical Psychologist Therapy
for Alopecia cost?

Clinical Psychologists are the highest level of providers of psychological therapy. You can expect expert help including coping strategies tailored to you to help you manage your feelings about hair loss.

Initial Phone Call (15 minutes) £0

Online therapy sessions are £110 each.

Request Your Call

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a diagnosis of alopecia to access this therapy?

No. You're welcome whether you have undiagnosed hair loss or an alopecia diagnosis.

Is this service only for existing Growth Factor Hair Clinic?

No. Psychological therapy is open to anyone affected by hair loss. You don't need to be receiving any other treatment from the clinic.

What is therapy like?

Therapy sessions are collaborative and tailored to you. They provide a confidential space to explore how hair loss has affected you and to develop ways of coping. Sessions are structured tailored to your needs and goals.

How many therapy sessions will I need?

Six sessions is average, but some people may want more or less.

Other Emotional Help

Support groups like Alopecia UK groups can be helpful to many people.

Click here for details of your nearest group: Find an Alopecia Support Group

NHS psychological support provision varies across the UK, but you can ask your GP for help.

There are general mental health support and self-care tools available on Mind.org.uk

Urgent Help / Crisis

NHS 111 for urgent mental health support
Your GP
A&E

If You're Not Ready Yet

If you've just found this page, you may want some time to think about whether this service is something that might help you. You are welcome to come back another time. We will be here.