Does the NHS give free therapy?
Yes, the NHS offers free talking therapies for mental health, including counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). You can self-refer or ask your GP to refer you.
What free therapy does the NHS offer?
The NHS provides a range of free talking therapies to help with mental health issues. This includes:
- Counselling
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Other evidence-based talking therapies
Every NHS trust in England offers these services.
How can you access NHS therapy?
- You can usually self-refer to your local NHS talking therapies service.
- Your GP can also refer you if you prefer.
Private therapy is available, but you would need to pay for it yourself.
Your right to NHS therapy
You have the right to use NHS mental health services. The NHS cannot refuse to help you without a good reason.
Other commonly asked questions
How to deal with depression?
Living with depression can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and find hope.
Read our guide Read our guide
How does mental illness affect daily life?
Mental illness can affect various aspects of daily life, from work and relationships to personal enjoyment and family dynamics.
Read the answer Read the answer
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a type of talking therapy. It examines how your thoughts can affect your feelings and aims to change these thought patterns.
Read the full answer Read the full answer
Can I be fired for mental illness?
Employment laws in the UK, particularly the Equality Act 2010, protect individuals from discrimination based on mental health condition.
Read the answer Read the answer