NHS self-referral enables patients to access certain mental health services directly, without first consulting a GP. This guide explains how self-referral works, which services accept it, and how it compares to other NHS pathways.
What is NHS self-referral?
NHS self-referral enables patients to access certain mental health services directly, without first consulting a GP.
This typically applies to:
- Talking therapies (NHS Talking Therapies)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Counselling for anxiety, depression, stress, and related conditions
Rather than requesting a GP referral, patients contact the local NHS service directly using an online form or telephone triage.
Self-referral services are NHS-funded.
Who can self-refer?
Eligibility for self-referral is determined by the following criteria:
- You are registered with a GP in England
- You are seeking support for common mental health conditions
- The local NHS Talking Therapies service accepts self-referrals
Eligibility is usually determined by location. Services are commissioned locally.
Self-referral is available in most areas of England through locally commissioned NHS Talking Therapies services.
What services can you access through self-referral?
Self-referral typically covers the following conditions:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress symptoms
- Stress-related conditions
Self-referral does not typically cover:
- Autism assessment
- Severe or complex psychiatric conditions requiring specialist care
- Crisis or emergency mental health support
ADHD assessment typically requires a GP referral. However, some specialist ADHD services in certain areas do accept self-referrals — patients can check with their local service to confirm whether this is available.
For urgent situations, contact your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services.
How does self-referral work?
Find your local NHS Talking Therapies service
Each region in England operates its own commissioned service provider. Identify the service covering your GP registration area.
Complete an online referral form
The form will typically request information about your symptoms, their duration, any previous treatment, and basic personal details.
Initial assessment
A clinician will conduct a telephone or video assessment to evaluate your needs and determine the appropriate level of support.
Treatment allocation
Based on the assessment, you may be offered guided self-help, online CBT, one-to-one therapy, or group therapy.
Waiting times vary by area and service capacity.
Understand the different types of NHS referrals — from GP-led pathways to self-referral and Right to Choose — and how to navigate them.
Do you need to inform your GP?
Self-referral is designed to reduce unnecessary steps in accessing therapy.
In most cases, a GP consultation is not required before self-referring.
However:
- Some services may notify your GP as part of standard clinical practice
- If medication is involved, GP involvement may be required
If you are uncertain, you can confirm directly with the service during the referral process.
How long are waiting times?
Waiting times vary significantly by region.
Understanding local service capacity can help you choose the most appropriate pathway.
Many areas aim to offer an initial assessment within a few weeks, though treatment waiting times may be longer depending on demand and service capacity.
Worth knowing
Self-referral vs GP referral
Self-referral is appropriate when:
- You are seeking talking therapy
- Your symptoms are mild to moderate
- You do not require diagnostic assessment
GP referral may be more appropriate when:
- You require medication
- You need specialist psychiatric assessment
- You are seeking ADHD or autism assessment
- Your condition is complex or severe
Selecting the correct pathway can reduce delays in accessing appropriate care.
Choosing the right pathway
Understanding the differences between self-referral, GP referral, and Right to Choose can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
| Feature | Self-referral | GP referral | Right to Choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| GP appointment required | No | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for ADHD assessment | No | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for talking therapy | Yes | Yes | Sometimes |
| NHS-funded | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Can choose provider outside local area | No (usually local service only) | Usually local pathway | Yes |
| Designed to reduce waiting times | Removes GP step only | Standard pathway | May significantly reduce waiting times |
Looking for ADHD assessment instead? Read our guide to NHS Right to Choose for faster access to NHS-funded specialist services.
Find NHS Talking Therapies in your area
Search local NHS Talking Therapies services and check self-referral eligibility in your area.
- NHS-funded services
- Self-referral eligibility
- Local waiting times
Frequently asked questions
Sources
This guide draws on publicly available NHS information.
Sources referenced include:
- NHS England — NHS Talking Therapies
- NHS — How to access mental health services
- NHS Constitution for England
- NHS Long Term Plan — Mental health commitments
Related guides
What is an NHS referral?
Understand the different types of NHS referrals and how to navigate them.
Read guide GuideThe complete guide to NHS Right to Choose
Understand how NHS patient choice works and when you can choose a different provider.
Read guide GuideHow to Get Therapy in the UK
Step-by-step guide to accessing therapy through NHS, charities, or private providers.
Read guide GuideNHS Talking Therapies explained
How NHS Talking Therapies work, what they offer, and how to self-refer.
Read guide