Asking for help with your mental wellbeing can feel like a big step. NHS talking therapies offer a route to discuss common difficulties with trained professionals and explore practical, structured support that fits your needs.
What are talking therapies?
Talking therapies are planned conversations with a trained practitioner. Depending on an assessment and the service available, support may involve learning ways to understand difficult thoughts and feelings, respond to challenges, and practise helpful strategies in everyday life. You can ask the service what approaches it offers and what might suit your situation.
How do I find out about getting support?
In many parts of England, adults can contact an NHS talking therapies service directly, without first asking a GP for a referral. Referral routes and eligibility vary by service and area. Berkshire Healthcare provides information for people looking for support in its local area; check the service's current guidance to see whether it covers where you live and how to get in touch.
What might happen after I make contact?
A first conversation or assessment helps the service understand what you are experiencing and what kind of help may be appropriate. You can ask how appointments are delivered, how long the process may take, what happens to your information, and how to rearrange an appointment. If a particular service is not the right fit, ask about other local options or speak with your GP.
Make the first conversation easier
- Write down what has been difficult and how it affects your day-to-day life.
- Note any questions, access needs or preferences you would like the service to know about.
- If you cannot attend, let the service know as early as possible so it can explain its cancellation policy.
If you need urgent help
Talking therapy appointments are not an emergency response. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. If you need urgent mental health help in England but it is not an emergency, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option where available.
Please note: This article is for general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for personalised medical advice. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your circumstances. If you need urgent help, contact NHS 111; call 999 in an emergency.