Talk Therapy: Benefits and Techniques

Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, involves a therapist and a person in therapy discussing and resolving emotional and psychological difficulties. It can help individuals cope with various mental health issues.

Talk therapy FAQ

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What are talking therapies?

Talking therapies, or psychological therapies, are effective and confidential treatments delivered by fully trained and accredited NHS practitioners. They can help if you're struggling with things like feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How does talking therapy work?

During talking therapy, a trained counsellor or therapist listens to you and helps you find your own answers to problems, without judging you. The therapist will give you time to talk, cry, shout or just think. It's an opportunity to look at your problems in a different way with someone who'll respect you and your opinions.

What are the different types of talking therapy?

There are lots of different types of talking therapy, but they all involve working with a trained therapist. This may be one-to-one, in a group, online, over the phone, with your family, or with your partner. The therapist helps you understand and cope with the problems you're having.

Who can benefit from talk therapy?

People who do not have mental health conditions can also benefit from talk therapy. There are many different types of talk therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, inegrative therapy, and others.

What is talking therapy?

Talking therapies are treatments which involve talking to a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. There are many different types of talking therapy, but they all aim to: give you a safe time and place to talk to someone who won't judge you

What are NHS talking therapies?

NHS Talking Therapies, for anxiety and depression services are characterised by three key principles:

Are talking therapies the same as medicine?

You may also hear them referred to as counselling, talking treatments or psychological therapies. Talking therapy is for anyone who's going through a bad time or has emotional problems they need help with. For many adults it may be the same or more effective than medicine. Can you get talking therapies on the NHS?

Are talking therapies free?

Any therapy provided through the NHS should be free of charge. The common routes to access talking therapies through the NHS are: Your GP. Your GP might refer you to a suitable service after speaking to you – that service will then get in touch with you. See our page on talking to your GP for guidance on discussing your mental health with them.