Mental health therapy refers to treatments that help people understand and manage emotional or psychological difficulties.
In the UK, therapy may be available through the NHS, charities, community services, or private providers. Different therapies focus on different approaches to improving mental wellbeing.
This guide explains the most common types of mental health therapy available in the UK, how they work, and how people typically access them.
At a glance
- Different therapies suit different difficulties
- NHS Talking Therapies cover the most common types
- CBT, Counselling, and Psychotherapy are the most widely used in the UK
- Your GP or therapist can help you choose the right approach
What is mental health therapy?
Mental health therapy involves structured conversations with trained professionals designed to support emotional wellbeing and mental health.
According to NHS guidance, psychological therapies may help people manage a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Source: NHS – Talking therapies and counselling
Therapy can take place:
- one-to-one with a therapist
- in group sessions
- online or by telephone
- through guided self-help programmes
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used psychological therapies in the UK.
CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour that may contribute to emotional difficulties.
According to NHS guidance, CBT is commonly used to treat:
- anxiety disorders
- depression
- panic disorder
- obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Source: NHS – Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT may be offered through NHS Talking Therapies services or private therapists.
Counselling
Counselling involves talking with a trained therapist about emotional or personal difficulties in a supportive environment.
Counselling may help people explore issues such as:
- relationship difficulties
- stress
- grief and loss
- life transitions
Sessions usually focus on listening and helping individuals explore their feelings and experiences.
Source: NHS – Counselling
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy refers to longer-term psychological treatments that explore deeper patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviour.
Psychotherapy may help people understand how past experiences influence current mental health and relationships.
Different forms of psychotherapy exist, including:
- psychodynamic therapy
- interpersonal therapy
- integrative therapy
These therapies are usually provided by trained psychotherapists or psychologists.
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Guided self-help
Some therapy programmes involve guided self-help, where people work through structured materials supported by a therapist.
These programmes may include:
- digital therapy platforms
- structured workbooks
- online therapy modules
Guided self-help is commonly used within NHS Talking Therapies services.
Source: NHS – Guided self-help
Group therapy
Group therapy involves multiple participants working with a therapist in a structured session.
These sessions may help people share experiences, learn coping strategies, and build support networks.
Group therapy is sometimes offered through NHS mental health services or specialist therapy providers.
Looking to access therapy?
Read our guide: How to Get Therapy in the UKChoosing the right therapy
Different therapies may be recommended depending on a person's needs and circumstances.
Healthcare professionals may consider factors such as:
- the type of mental health difficulty
- previous treatment history
- individual preferences
- availability of local services
Understanding the available options can help people explore appropriate support pathways.
Navigating therapy options
Mental health therapy can play an important role in supporting emotional wellbeing.
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Information in this guide is based on NHS guidance about psychological therapies.
NHS sources referenced include:
Related guides
How to Get Therapy in the UK
Understand the three main ways to access therapy in the UK — NHS, charity, and private — and how to choose the right route.
NHS Talking Therapies Explained
Free NHS psychological therapy for anxiety, depression, and common mental health conditions — self-referral available in most areas.
Mental Health Assessment: What Happens
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Private Therapy in the UK: A Practical Guide
Understand how private therapy works in the UK — costs, accreditation, and how to find a regulated therapist.