Depression services

Not always. NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT) accepts self-referrals for common issues like anxiety and depression — no GP visit needed. For specialist NHS care (CMHT, psychiatry) you usually do need a GP referral. Private therapists and psychiatrists accept patients directly.

NHS support is free but waiting lists for talking therapies and specialist services can be long, and session counts are often capped. Private support typically starts within days or weeks, lets you choose your therapist, and isn't limited by NHS commissioning rules — but you pay per session.

It depends on what you're looking for: counsellors and psychotherapists help with talking-based support; clinical psychologists handle complex or trauma-related work; psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Check each provider's regulator (BACP, UKCP, BPS, GMC) on their profile.

Yes — UK therapists are bound by their regulator's ethics framework, which requires confidentiality except in specific safeguarding situations (risk of serious harm to you or others). Your therapist will explain the limits at your first session.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support: call NHS 111 and select option 2 for mental health, call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7), or text SHOUT to 85258. This site is for finding routine support, not crisis care.

Yes. NHS Talking Therapies accepts self-referrals for depression. You do not need a GP referral. If your depression is severe or you have been experiencing it for a long time, your GP can also refer you to a specialist service for more intensive support.

NICE recommends several evidence-based therapies for depression including CBT, behavioural activation, interpersonal therapy (IPT), and counselling. For more severe or treatment-resistant depression, longer-term psychodynamic therapy or a combination of therapy and medication may be recommended.

This is a personal decision best made with your GP or psychiatrist. NICE guidelines suggest that for mild depression, talking therapy is usually tried first. For moderate to severe depression, medication may be recommended alongside therapy. Antidepressants are not addictive, but they should be started and stopped gradually with medical guidance.

A GP or therapist can help assess this. Generally, mild depression affects your daily life but you can still manage most activities. Moderate depression makes daily functioning noticeably harder. Severe depression significantly impairs your ability to work, socialise, or look after yourself, and may include thoughts of self-harm. If you are in crisis, contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call the Samaritans on 116 123.

A typical course of talking therapy is 6 to 20 sessions depending on severity and the type of therapy. If medication is prescribed, it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to feel the full effect, and most people take it for at least 6 to 12 months. Recovery is not linear - ongoing support can make a real difference.

Yes. Depression and anxiety commonly occur together, and most services treat both. NHS Talking Therapies is specifically designed for anxiety and depression. Your therapist will work with you on whichever symptoms are most affecting your life.