Are NHS talking therapies free?
Yes, NHS talking therapies are free. You do not have to pay for these services in England.
What are NHS talking therapies?
NHS talking therapies are treatments for mental health problems like anxiety and depression. They include counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and other types of support.
These therapies are designed to help you understand your feelings, develop coping skills, and improve your wellbeing.
How can you access free NHS talking therapies?
- You can usually refer yourself directly to your local NHS talking therapies service.
- Your GP can also refer you if you prefer.
- Every NHS trust in England offers these services, so search for help in your area.
You do not need to pay for NHS talking therapies. However, if you choose to see a private therapist, you would need to pay for that yourself.
Why choose NHS talking therapies?
NHS talking therapies are evidence-based and delivered by trained professionals. They are designed to support people with a range of mental health problems, and you can access them without worrying about the cost.
Find out more and get support
If you want to learn more about talking therapies, visit our talking therapies information page.
If you think talking therapy could help you, don’t wait. Reach out to your local NHS service or speak to your GP.
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
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