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URLhttps://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies
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Meta TitlePsychotherapies - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Meta DescriptionLearn about psychotherapies (talk therapy) such as what it is, considerations when looking for a therapist, & resources for finding help & more information.
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What is psychotherapy? Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy) refers to a variety of treatments that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Most psychotherapy takes place one-on-one with a licensed mental health professional or with other patients in a group setting. Psychotherapy and medication are the most common forms of mental health treatment. NIMH has information on mental health medications . In general, the goals of psychotherapy are to gain relief from symptoms, maintain or enhance daily functioning, and improve quality of life. You or someone you know might seek out psychotherapy for many reasons, including: Dealing with severe or long-term stress from a job or family situation, the loss of a loved one, or relationship or family problems Having symptoms with no physical explanation, such as changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, lack of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed, persistent irritability, excessive worry, or a sense of discouragement or hopelessness that won’t go away A health care provider suspecting you have or diagnosing you with a mental disorder that is interfering with your life Supporting a child or family member who has been diagnosed with a condition affecting their mental health First being examined by a health care provider can help rule out a physical health issue. This step is important because sometimes symptoms, like a change in mood or trouble concentrating, are due to a medical condition. Psychotherapy and other treatment options Psychotherapy can be used as an alternative to or alongside medication and other treatment options. Choosing the right treatment plan is based on a person's individual needs and medical situation and should occur under the guidance of a mental health professional. Even when medication relieves symptoms, psychotherapy can help address specific issues. These might include self-defeating ways of thinking; irrational fears; problems interacting with other people; or difficulty coping with situations at home, school, or work. What are the elements of psychotherapy? A variety of psychotherapies have been shown to effectively treat mental health disorders. Often, the type of treatment is tailored to the specific disorder. For example, the treatment approach for someone who has obsessive-compulsive disorder is different than the approach for someone who has bipolar disorder. Therapists may use one primary approach or incorporate elements from multiple approaches depending on their training, the disorder being treated, and the needs of the person receiving treatment. Elements of psychotherapy can include the following: Help a person become aware of automatic ways of thinking that are inaccurate or harmful (for example, having a low opinion of their abilities) and then question those thoughts, understand how the thoughts affect their emotions and behavior, and change self-defeating behavior patterns. This approach is known as  cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) . Identify ways to cope with stress and develop problem-solving strategies. Examine interactions with others and teach social and communication skills. Apply mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and breathing exercises. Use exposure therapy (a type of CBT) for anxiety disorders, in which a person spends brief periods in a supportive environment learning to tolerate the distress caused by certain items, ideas, or imagined scenes. This is continued until, over time, the fear associated with those things goes down. Track emotions and behaviors to raise awareness of their impact on each other. Use supportive counseling to explore troubling issues and receive emotional support. Create a safety plan to help with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, recognize warning signs, and use coping strategies, such as contacting friends, family, or emergency personnel. There are many types of psychotherapy. Therapies are often variations of an established approach, such as CBT. There is no formal approval process for psychotherapies like there is for medications by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, for many therapies, research involving large numbers of patients has provided evidence that the treatment is effective. These evidence-based therapies have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders.  NIMH's health topic pages list some of the evidence-based therapies used to treat specific disorders. What should I look for in a therapist? Therapists have different professional backgrounds and specialties. The approach a therapist uses depends on their training and experience and the disorder being treated. This section and the next provide information that can help you find a therapist’s credentials and resources for locating therapists. Once you have identified one or more possible therapists, a preliminary conversation can help you understand how treatment will proceed and if you feel comfortable with the therapist. Rapport and trust are essential. Discussions in therapy are deeply personal, and it’s important that you feel comfortable with the therapist and have confidence in their expertise. These preliminary conversations may happen in person, by phone, or virtually. Consider asking the following questions: What are the credentials and experience of the therapist? Does the therapist have a specialty? What approach will the therapist use to help you? Do they practice a particular type of therapy? What is the rationale for the therapy and its evidence base? Does the therapist have experience in diagnosing and treating the age group (for example, a child) and the specific condition? If the patient is a child, how will parents or caregivers be involved in treatment? What are the goals of therapy? Does the therapist recommend a specific time frame or number of sessions? How will progress be assessed? What happens if you (or the therapist) feel you aren't starting to improve? Are medications an option? Is this therapist able to prescribe medications? Are meetings confidential? How is confidentiality assured? Are there limits to confidentiality? If you have been in therapy for what feels like a reasonable amount of time and are not getting better, talk to your therapist. You might want to explore other mental health professionals or approaches. How can I find a therapist? Many types of professionals offer psychotherapy. Examples include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses. Information on providers’ credentials is available from the  National Alliance on Mental Illness  and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration  .  NIMH has information on ways to get help , find a health care provider, and access treatment, including reduced-cost health services. Your health insurance provider may also have a list of specific mental health professionals participating in your plan. When talking with a prospective therapist, ask about treatment fees, whether the therapist accepts insurance, and whether there is a sliding scale for fees according to income. The following professional organizations have directories or locators on their websites for finding mental health professionals: Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies  American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry  American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry  American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy  American Board of Clinical Social Work  American Board of Professional Psychology  American Psychiatric Association  American Psychological Association  Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies  National Association of Social Workers  National Register of Health Service Psychologists  Psychology Today  Society of Clinical Psychology  National advocacy organizations provide information on finding mental health professionals, and some have locators for finding a therapist on their websites. Examples include: Anxiety & Depression Association of America  Attention Deficit Disorder Association  Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder  Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance  International OCD Foundation  Mental Health America  National Alliance on Mental Illness  Note : NIMH does not evaluate the professional qualifications and competencies of individual practitioners listed on these websites. These resources are provided for informational purposes only. They are not comprehensive lists, and an organization’s inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by NIMH, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or the U.S. government. Many universities or medical schools have affiliated programs that offer treatment options, including training clinics. You can find these programs by searching the website of local university health centers for their psychiatry or psychology departments. You can also go to the website for the health department in your state or county to look for mental health-related programs they might offer. What are options for digital health care? The telephone, the internet, and mobile devices have created new opportunities for readily available and accessible treatment, including in areas where mental health professionals may not be physically available. Some of these approaches involve a therapist providing help at a distance. Others, such as web-based programs and mobile apps, are designed to provide immediate information and feedback in the absence of a therapist.  NIMH provides information on and examples of technology used for mental health treatment . How can I learn more about mental health care? Fact sheets Children and Mental Health: Is This Just a Stage?  (also available en español ): Provides information on children’s mental health, including how to assess your child’s behavior, when to seek help, first steps for parents, treatment options, and factors to consider when choosing a mental health professional My Mental Health: Do I Need Help? (also available  en español ) : Provides information on assessing your mental health and determining if you need help, including examples of mild and severe symptoms, self-care activities, and options for professional help Tips for Talking With a Health Care Provider About Your Mental Health (also available  en español ): Offers five tips to help you talk to a health care provider about your mental health and get the most out of your visit Getting Mental Health Support Virtually (also available en español) : Provides information about telehealth for mental health services, including potential benefits and drawbacks of this kind of care and factors to consider when looking for a provider Federal resources Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality   : Find resources and information about health care, including data and tools to help you make informed health decisions. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) : Learn about treatment options and ways to find treatment and access support. PubMed (National Library of Medicine)   : Read in-depth research articles on therapies for mental health disorders by using the PubMed database of medical literature to search for articles by topic. Health hotlines 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline   : This lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. Call or text  988  to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat at  988lifeline.org   . Para ayuda  en español, llame al 988 . Disaster Distress Helpline   : People affected by any disaster or tragedy can call this helpline, sponsored by SAMHSA, to receive immediate counseling. Call or text  1-800-985-5990  to connect with a trained professional from the closest crisis counseling center within the network. SAMHSA’s National Helpline   : This helpline provides free and confidential treatment referral to local facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) . Veterans Crisis Line   : This crisis line is a free, confidential resource for veterans of all ages and circumstances. Dial 988 and press 1, text 838255 , or  chat online   to connect with 24/7 support. More NIH Health Information Lines   Last Reviewed: February 2024
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[Skip to main content](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#main-content) ![](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/themes/nimhtheme/uswds/images/us_flag_small.png) An official website of the United States government Here’s how you know Here’s how you know ![](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/themes/nimhtheme/uswds/images/icon-dot-gov.svg) **Official websites use .gov** A **.gov** website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. ![](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/themes/nimhtheme/uswds/images/icon-https.svg) **Secure .gov websites use HTTPS** A **lock** ( Locked padlock icon) or **https://** means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Due to current HHS and NIH restructuring, some content on nimh.nih.gov is not being updated regularly. Please refer to [clinicaltrials.gov](https://clinicaltrials.gov/) and [nih.gov](https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/nih-director/statements/nih-launches-initiative-modernize-strengthen-biosafety-oversight) for up-to-date information on NIH research. [![NIMH Logo](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/themes/nimhtheme/nimh-logo.svg)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ "NIMH Home") [In Crisis? Call or Text 988](https://988lifeline.org/) Transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses. [Home](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/) \| [Help for Mental Illnesses](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help) [Información en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/espanol) - [Mental Health Information](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health) - [Get Involved](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/get-involved) - [Research](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research) - [Funding](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding) - [News & Events](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news) - [About Us](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about) [Health Topics NIMH offers expert-reviewed information on mental disorders and a range of topics.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) [Statistics NIMH statistics pages include statistics on the prevalence, treatment, and costs of mental illness for the population of the United States.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics) [Brochures and Fact Sheets Download, read, and order free NIMH brochures and fact sheets about mental disorders and related topics.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications) [Help for Mental Illnesses If you or someone you know has a mental illness, there are ways to get help. Use these resources to find help for yourself, a friend, or a family member.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help) [Clinical Trials If you or a friend or family member are thinking about taking part in clinical research, this page contains basic information about clinical trials.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/trials) [Stakeholder Engagement Find out how NIMH engages a range of stakeholder organizations as part of its efforts to ensure the greatest public health impact of the research we support.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/get-involved/public-involvement) [Connect with NIMH Learn more about NIMH newsletters, public participation in grant reviews, research funding, clinical trials, the NIMH Gift Fund, and connecting with NIMH on social media.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/get-involved/connect-with-nimh) [Digital Shareables Use these free education and outreach materials in your community and on social media to spread the word about mental health and related topics.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/get-involved/digital-shareables) [Science Education Use these free digital, outreach materials in your community and on social media to spread the word about mental health.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/get-involved/science-education) [Research Funded by NIMH NIMH supports research at universities, medical centers, and other institutions via grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements. Learn more about NIMH research areas, policies, resources, and initiatives.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-funded-by-nimh) [Research Conducted at NIMH (Intramural Research Program) The Division of Intramural Research Programs (IRP) is the internal research division of the NIMH. Over 40 research groups conduct basic neuroscience research and clinical investigations of mental illnesses, brain function, and behavior at the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. Learn more about research conducted at NIMH.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-conducted-at-nimh) [Priority Research Areas Learn about NIMH priority areas for research and funding that have the potential to improve mental health care over the short, medium, and long term.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/priority-research-areas) [Resources for Researchers Information about resources such as data, tissue, model organisms and imaging resources to support the NIMH research community.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-funded-by-nimh/research-resources) [Opportunities & Announcements Find all NIMH and cross-NIH funding opportunities.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/opportunities-announcements) [Funding Strategy for Grants Read more about the NIMH Strategic Plan for Research, Strategic Research Priorities, the anatomy of NIMH funding, and our yearly funding strategy for research grants.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/funding-strategy-for-research-grants) [Application Process Explore the NIMH grant application process, including how to write your grant, how to submit your grant, and how the review process works.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/grant-writing-and-application-process) [Managing Grants Learn about how NIMH manages research grants, including policies and reporting requirements.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/managing-your-grant) [Clinical Research Find the latest NIH and NIMH policies, guidance, and resources for clinical research.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/clinical-research) [Training Explore NIMH research training and career development opportunities.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/training) [Small Business Research Learn about funding opportunities for small businesses.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/sbir) ### Quick Links [Funding & Grant News](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/opportunities-announcements/funding-grant-news) [Support for Clinical Trials at NIMH](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/opportunities-announcements/clinical-trials-foas) [Science Updates List of NIMH science updates including press releases, research highlights, and institute announcements.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates) [Meetings and Events Details about upcoming events—including meetings, conferences, workshops, lectures, webinars, and chats—sponsored by NIMH.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/events) [Multimedia NIMH videos and podcasts featuring science news, lecture series, meetings, seminars, and special events.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/media) [Innovation Speaker Series An annual lecture series dedicated to innovation, invention, and scientific discovery.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/innovation-speaker-series) [About the Acting NIMH Director Learn more about the Acting Director of the NIMH, Shelli Avenevoli, Ph.D.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/director) [Advisory Boards and Groups Read about the boards and groups that advise and provide guidance to the Institute.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/advisory-boards-and-groups) [Strategic Plan Learn more about NIMH's roadmap for the Institute’s research priorities over the next five years.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/strategic-planning-reports) [Offices and Divisions Learn more about the functions of each NIMH office and division.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/organization) [Budget Read the annual NIMH Congressional Justifications.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/budget) [Careers at NIMH Search for jobs, including scientific, administrative and executive careers at NIMH.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/careers) [Staff Directories Find the names, telephone numbers, email addresses, and office locations of NIMH staff.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/staff-directories) [History Explore key milestones, discoveries, and the impact of NIMH-funded studies on mental health.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/nimh-history) [Getting to NIMH Find directions, maps, parking information, and other visitor information for NIMH.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/connect-with-nimh) ### Quick Links **[Contribute to Mental Health Research](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/connect-with-nimh/donate-to-mental-health-research "Donate to Mental Health Research")** - 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[Health Topics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) - [Statistics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics) - [Brochures and Fact Sheets](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications) - [Help for Mental Illnesses](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help) - [Clinical Trials](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/trials) [Home](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/) \> [Mental Health Information](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health) \> [Health Topics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) \> Psychotherapies ###### Share Page Menu - [What is psychotherapy?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#part_2490) - [What are the elements of psychotherapy?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#part_2493) - [What should I look for in a therapist?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#part_2494) - [How can I find a therapist?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#part_10802) - [What are options for digital health care?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#part_10800) - [How can I learn more about mental health care?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#part_10801) # Psychotherapies ## What is psychotherapy? Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy) refers to a variety of treatments that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Most psychotherapy takes place one-on-one with a licensed mental health professional or with other patients in a group setting. Psychotherapy and medication are the most common forms of mental health treatment. NIMH has information on [mental health medications](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications). In general, the goals of psychotherapy are to gain relief from symptoms, maintain or enhance daily functioning, and improve quality of life. You or someone you know might seek out psychotherapy for many reasons, including: - Dealing with severe or long-term stress from a job or family situation, the loss of a loved one, or relationship or family problems - Having symptoms with no physical explanation, such as changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, lack of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed, persistent irritability, excessive worry, or a sense of discouragement or hopelessness that won’t go away - A health care provider suspecting you have or diagnosing you with a mental disorder that is interfering with your life - Supporting a child or family member who has been diagnosed with a condition affecting their mental health First being examined by a health care provider can help rule out a physical health issue. This step is important because sometimes symptoms, like a change in mood or trouble concentrating, are due to a medical condition. ### Psychotherapy and other treatment options Psychotherapy can be used as an alternative to or alongside [medication](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications) and other treatment options. Choosing the right treatment plan is based on a person's individual needs and medical situation and should occur under the guidance of a mental health professional. Even when medication relieves symptoms, psychotherapy can help address specific issues. These might include self-defeating ways of thinking; irrational fears; problems interacting with other people; or difficulty coping with situations at home, school, or work. ## What are the elements of psychotherapy? A variety of psychotherapies have been shown to effectively treat mental health disorders. Often, the type of treatment is tailored to the specific disorder. For example, the treatment approach for someone who has obsessive-compulsive disorder is different than the approach for someone who has bipolar disorder. Therapists may use one primary approach or incorporate elements from multiple approaches depending on their training, the disorder being treated, and the needs of the person receiving treatment. Elements of psychotherapy can include the following: - Help a person become aware of automatic ways of thinking that are inaccurate or harmful (for example, having a low opinion of their abilities) and then question those thoughts, understand how the thoughts affect their emotions and behavior, and change self-defeating behavior patterns. This approach is known as [cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders#part_2225)[.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders) - Identify ways to cope with stress and develop problem-solving strategies. - Examine interactions with others and teach social and communication skills. - Apply mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and breathing exercises. - Use exposure therapy (a type of CBT) for anxiety disorders, in which a person spends brief periods in a supportive environment learning to tolerate the distress caused by certain items, ideas, or imagined scenes. This is continued until, over time, the fear associated with those things goes down. - Track emotions and behaviors to raise awareness of their impact on each other. - Use supportive counseling to explore troubling issues and receive emotional support. - Create a safety plan to help with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, recognize warning signs, and use coping strategies, such as contacting friends, family, or emergency personnel. There are many types of psychotherapy. Therapies are often variations of an established approach, such as CBT. There is no formal approval process for psychotherapies like there is for medications by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, for many therapies, research involving large numbers of patients has provided evidence that the treatment is effective. These evidence-based therapies have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. [NIMH's health topic pages](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) list some of the evidence-based therapies used to treat specific disorders. ## What should I look for in a therapist? Therapists have different professional backgrounds and specialties. The approach a therapist uses depends on their training and experience and the disorder being treated. This section and the next provide information that can help you find a therapist’s credentials and resources for locating therapists. Once you have identified one or more possible therapists, a preliminary conversation can help you understand how treatment will proceed and if you feel comfortable with the therapist. Rapport and trust are essential. Discussions in therapy are deeply personal, and it’s important that you feel comfortable with the therapist and have confidence in their expertise. These preliminary conversations may happen in person, by phone, or virtually. Consider asking the following questions: - What are the credentials and experience of the therapist? Does the therapist have a specialty? - What approach will the therapist use to help you? Do they practice a particular type of therapy? What is the rationale for the therapy and its evidence base? - Does the therapist have experience in diagnosing and treating the age group (for example, a child) and the specific condition? If the patient is a child, how will parents or caregivers be involved in treatment? - What are the goals of therapy? Does the therapist recommend a specific time frame or number of sessions? How will progress be assessed? What happens if you (or the therapist) feel you aren't starting to improve? - Are medications an option? Is this therapist able to prescribe medications? - Are meetings confidential? How is confidentiality assured? Are there limits to confidentiality? If you have been in therapy for what feels like a reasonable amount of time and are not getting better, talk to your therapist. You might want to explore other mental health professionals or approaches. ## How can I find a therapist? Many types of professionals offer psychotherapy. Examples include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses. Information on providers’ credentials is available from the [National Alliance on Mental Illness](http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Treatment/Types-of-Mental-Health-Professionals) and the [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/learn-about-treatment/types-of-providers) . NIMH has information on [ways to get help](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help), find a health care provider, and access treatment, including reduced-cost health services. Your health insurance provider may also have a list of specific mental health professionals participating in your plan. When talking with a prospective therapist, ask about treatment fees, whether the therapist accepts insurance, and whether there is a sliding scale for fees according to income. The following professional organizations have directories or locators on their websites for finding mental health professionals: - [Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies](https://www.academyofct.org/) - [American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry](https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Resources/CAP_Finder.aspx) - [American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry](https://aagponline.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/aagponline/publicaccess/membershipDirectory.do?md=2&) - [American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy](https://www.aamft.org/Directories/Find_a_Therapist.aspx) - [American Board of Clinical Social Work](https://www.abcsw.org/index.php?option=com_mcdirectorysearch&view=search&id=2002806#/) - [American Board of Professional Psychology](https://www.abpp.org/Directory) - [American Psychiatric Association](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/find-a-psychiatrist) - [American Psychological Association](http://locator.apa.org/?_ga=1.243070474.923112978.1477406277) - [Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies](https://services.abct.org/i4a/memberDirectory/index.cfm?directory_id=3&pageID=3282) - [National Association of Social Workers](https://www.helpstartshere.org/?page_id=3677) - [National Register of Health Service Psychologists](https://www.findapsychologist.org/) - [Psychology Today](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists) - [Society of Clinical Psychology](http://www.div12.org/therapist-search/) National advocacy organizations provide information on finding mental health professionals, and some have locators for finding a therapist on their websites. Examples include: - [Anxiety & Depression Association of America](http://www.adaa.org/) - [Attention Deficit Disorder Association](http://www.add.org/) - [Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder](http://www.chadd.org/) - [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http://www.dbsalliance.org/) - [International OCD Foundation](https://iocdf.org/) - [Mental Health America](https://mhanational.org/finding-help) - [National Alliance on Mental Illness](http://www.nami.org/) **Note**: NIMH does not evaluate the professional qualifications and competencies of individual practitioners listed on these websites. These resources are provided for informational purposes only. They are not comprehensive lists, and an organization’s inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by NIMH, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or the U.S. government. Many universities or medical schools have affiliated programs that offer treatment options, including training clinics. You can find these programs by searching the website of local university health centers for their psychiatry or psychology departments. You can also go to the website for the health department in your state or county to look for mental health-related programs they might offer. ## What are options for digital health care? The telephone, the internet, and mobile devices have created new opportunities for readily available and accessible treatment, including in areas where mental health professionals may not be physically available. Some of these approaches involve a therapist providing help at a distance. Others, such as web-based programs and mobile apps, are designed to provide immediate information and feedback in the absence of a therapist. NIMH provides information on and examples of [technology used for mental health treatment](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/technology-and-the-future-of-mental-health-treatment). ## How can I learn more about mental health care? ### Fact sheets - [**Children and Mental Health: Is This Just a Stage?**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/children-and-mental-health) (also available [en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/los-ninos-y-la-salud-mental)): Provides information on children’s mental health, including how to assess your child’s behavior, when to seek help, first steps for parents, treatment options, and factors to consider when choosing a mental health professional - [**My Mental Health: Do I Need Help?**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/my-mental-health-do-i-need-help) (also available [en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/necesito-ayuda-para-mi-salud-mental)[)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/necesito-ayuda-para-mi-salud-mental): Provides information on assessing your mental health and determining if you need help, including examples of mild and severe symptoms, self-care activities, and options for professional help - [**Tips for Talking With a Health Care Provider About Your Mental Health**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/tips-for-talking-with-your-health-care-provider) (also available [en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/consejos-para-hablar-con-su-proveedor)):Offers five tips to help you talk to a health care provider about your mental health and get the most out of your visit - [**Getting Mental Health Support Virtually**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/what-is-telemental-health) (also available [en español)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/telesalud-mental): Provides information about telehealth for mental health services, including potential benefits and drawbacks of this kind of care and factors to consider when looking for a provider ### Federal resources - [**Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality**](https://www.ahrq.gov/) : Find resources and information about health care, including data and tools to help you make informed health decisions. - [**Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)**](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help): Learn about treatment options and ways to find treatment and access support. - [**PubMed (National Library of Medicine)**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) : Read in-depth research articles on therapies for mental health disorders by using the PubMed database of medical literature to search for articles by topic. ### Health hotlines - [**988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline**](https://988lifeline.org/) : This lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. Call or text **988** to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat at [**988lifeline.org**](https://988lifeline.org/) . Para ayuda **en español, llame al 988**. - [**Disaster Distress Helpline**](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline) : People affected by any disaster or tragedy can call this helpline, sponsored by SAMHSA, to receive immediate counseling. Call or text **1-800-985-5990** to connect with a trained professional from the closest crisis counseling center within the network. - [**SAMHSA’s National Helpline**](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline) : This helpline provides free and confidential treatment referral to local facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call **1-800-662-HELP (4357)**. - [**Veterans Crisis Line**](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/) : This crisis line is a free, confidential resource for veterans of all ages and circumstances. Dial **988** andpress 1, text **838255**, or [**chat online**](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/) to connect with 24/7 support. - [**More NIH Health Information Lines**](https://www.nih.gov/health-information/health-info-lines) **Last Reviewed:** February 2024 Unless otherwise specified, the information on our website and in our publications is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please [cite the National Institute of Mental Health](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/citing-nimh-publications-and-webpages) as the source. [Read our copyright policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies#part_2718) to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content. ## Join A Study - [Studies for Adults](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-conducted-at-nimh/join-a-study/adults) - [Studies for Children](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-conducted-at-nimh/join-a-study/children) ## Science Updates - [![A doctor filling out a form sitting across from a patient. ](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/sidebar_thumbnail/public/images/thumbnail-quality-outcome-measures.JPG?itok=9EAOD5-P)Developing Tools for Measuring Mental Health Outcomes](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates/developing-tools-for-measuring-mental-health-outcomes) - [![An illustration showing a profile view of a woman’s face in a peaceful pose with her eyes closed. Overlaying the back of her head is the outline of a brain. ](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/sidebar_thumbnail/public/images/thumbnail-sleep-brain-image.JPG?itok=aXAKIw5I)How the Brain Creates New Memories While Maintaining Old Ones](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates/2025/how-the-brain-creates-new-memories-while-maintaining-old-ones) - [![Medical professional holding a tablet computer.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/sidebar_thumbnail/public/images/thumbnail-medical-professional-using-tablet-square.JPG?itok=GBmyFYQ7)Predictive Models Show Promise in Preventing Suicide](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates/2025/predictive-models-show-promise-in-preventing-suicide) [More](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates) ## Disclaimer We link to external websites for informational purposes only, but we do not endorse or guarantee their accuracy. Once you leave our site, you will be subject to the new website’s privacy policy. Read NIMH’s [full external linking policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies#part_2717) for more information. ##### NIMH Resources [Health Topics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) [Brochures and Fact Sheets](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications) [Contact Us](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/contact-nimh) [Información en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/espanol) ##### Policies and Notices [Privacy Policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/privacy-policy) [Website Policies](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies) [FOIA](http://www.nih.gov/icd/od/foia/index.htm) [Accessibility](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/accessibility) [HHS Vulnerability Disclosure](https://www.hhs.gov/vulnerability-disclosure-policy/index.html) ##### Federal Resources [National Institutes of Health (NIH)](http://www.nih.gov/) [NIH Virtual Tour](https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour/) [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services](https://www.hhs.gov/) [USA.gov](http://www.usa.gov/) The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is part of NIH, a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 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Readable Markdown
## What is psychotherapy? Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy) refers to a variety of treatments that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Most psychotherapy takes place one-on-one with a licensed mental health professional or with other patients in a group setting. Psychotherapy and medication are the most common forms of mental health treatment. NIMH has information on [mental health medications](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications). In general, the goals of psychotherapy are to gain relief from symptoms, maintain or enhance daily functioning, and improve quality of life. You or someone you know might seek out psychotherapy for many reasons, including: - Dealing with severe or long-term stress from a job or family situation, the loss of a loved one, or relationship or family problems - Having symptoms with no physical explanation, such as changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, lack of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed, persistent irritability, excessive worry, or a sense of discouragement or hopelessness that won’t go away - A health care provider suspecting you have or diagnosing you with a mental disorder that is interfering with your life - Supporting a child or family member who has been diagnosed with a condition affecting their mental health First being examined by a health care provider can help rule out a physical health issue. This step is important because sometimes symptoms, like a change in mood or trouble concentrating, are due to a medical condition. ### Psychotherapy and other treatment options Psychotherapy can be used as an alternative to or alongside [medication](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications) and other treatment options. Choosing the right treatment plan is based on a person's individual needs and medical situation and should occur under the guidance of a mental health professional. Even when medication relieves symptoms, psychotherapy can help address specific issues. These might include self-defeating ways of thinking; irrational fears; problems interacting with other people; or difficulty coping with situations at home, school, or work. ## What are the elements of psychotherapy? A variety of psychotherapies have been shown to effectively treat mental health disorders. Often, the type of treatment is tailored to the specific disorder. For example, the treatment approach for someone who has obsessive-compulsive disorder is different than the approach for someone who has bipolar disorder. Therapists may use one primary approach or incorporate elements from multiple approaches depending on their training, the disorder being treated, and the needs of the person receiving treatment. Elements of psychotherapy can include the following: - Help a person become aware of automatic ways of thinking that are inaccurate or harmful (for example, having a low opinion of their abilities) and then question those thoughts, understand how the thoughts affect their emotions and behavior, and change self-defeating behavior patterns. This approach is known as [cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders#part_2225)[.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders) - Identify ways to cope with stress and develop problem-solving strategies. - Examine interactions with others and teach social and communication skills. - Apply mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and breathing exercises. - Use exposure therapy (a type of CBT) for anxiety disorders, in which a person spends brief periods in a supportive environment learning to tolerate the distress caused by certain items, ideas, or imagined scenes. This is continued until, over time, the fear associated with those things goes down. - Track emotions and behaviors to raise awareness of their impact on each other. - Use supportive counseling to explore troubling issues and receive emotional support. - Create a safety plan to help with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, recognize warning signs, and use coping strategies, such as contacting friends, family, or emergency personnel. There are many types of psychotherapy. Therapies are often variations of an established approach, such as CBT. There is no formal approval process for psychotherapies like there is for medications by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, for many therapies, research involving large numbers of patients has provided evidence that the treatment is effective. These evidence-based therapies have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. [NIMH's health topic pages](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) list some of the evidence-based therapies used to treat specific disorders. ## What should I look for in a therapist? Therapists have different professional backgrounds and specialties. The approach a therapist uses depends on their training and experience and the disorder being treated. This section and the next provide information that can help you find a therapist’s credentials and resources for locating therapists. Once you have identified one or more possible therapists, a preliminary conversation can help you understand how treatment will proceed and if you feel comfortable with the therapist. Rapport and trust are essential. Discussions in therapy are deeply personal, and it’s important that you feel comfortable with the therapist and have confidence in their expertise. These preliminary conversations may happen in person, by phone, or virtually. Consider asking the following questions: - What are the credentials and experience of the therapist? Does the therapist have a specialty? - What approach will the therapist use to help you? Do they practice a particular type of therapy? What is the rationale for the therapy and its evidence base? - Does the therapist have experience in diagnosing and treating the age group (for example, a child) and the specific condition? If the patient is a child, how will parents or caregivers be involved in treatment? - What are the goals of therapy? Does the therapist recommend a specific time frame or number of sessions? How will progress be assessed? What happens if you (or the therapist) feel you aren't starting to improve? - Are medications an option? Is this therapist able to prescribe medications? - Are meetings confidential? How is confidentiality assured? Are there limits to confidentiality? If you have been in therapy for what feels like a reasonable amount of time and are not getting better, talk to your therapist. You might want to explore other mental health professionals or approaches. ## How can I find a therapist? Many types of professionals offer psychotherapy. Examples include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses. Information on providers’ credentials is available from the [National Alliance on Mental Illness](http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Treatment/Types-of-Mental-Health-Professionals) and the [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/learn-about-treatment/types-of-providers) . NIMH has information on [ways to get help](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help), find a health care provider, and access treatment, including reduced-cost health services. Your health insurance provider may also have a list of specific mental health professionals participating in your plan. When talking with a prospective therapist, ask about treatment fees, whether the therapist accepts insurance, and whether there is a sliding scale for fees according to income. The following professional organizations have directories or locators on their websites for finding mental health professionals: - [Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies](https://www.academyofct.org/) - [American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry](https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Resources/CAP_Finder.aspx) - [American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry](https://aagponline.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/aagponline/publicaccess/membershipDirectory.do?md=2&) - [American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy](https://www.aamft.org/Directories/Find_a_Therapist.aspx) - [American Board of Clinical Social Work](https://www.abcsw.org/index.php?option=com_mcdirectorysearch&view=search&id=2002806#/) - [American Board of Professional Psychology](https://www.abpp.org/Directory) - [American Psychiatric Association](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/find-a-psychiatrist) - [American Psychological Association](http://locator.apa.org/?_ga=1.243070474.923112978.1477406277) - [Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies](https://services.abct.org/i4a/memberDirectory/index.cfm?directory_id=3&pageID=3282) - [National Association of Social Workers](https://www.helpstartshere.org/?page_id=3677) - [National Register of Health Service Psychologists](https://www.findapsychologist.org/) - [Psychology Today](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists) - [Society of Clinical Psychology](http://www.div12.org/therapist-search/) National advocacy organizations provide information on finding mental health professionals, and some have locators for finding a therapist on their websites. Examples include: - [Anxiety & Depression Association of America](http://www.adaa.org/) - [Attention Deficit Disorder Association](http://www.add.org/) - [Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder](http://www.chadd.org/) - [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http://www.dbsalliance.org/) - [International OCD Foundation](https://iocdf.org/) - [Mental Health America](https://mhanational.org/finding-help) - [National Alliance on Mental Illness](http://www.nami.org/) **Note**: NIMH does not evaluate the professional qualifications and competencies of individual practitioners listed on these websites. These resources are provided for informational purposes only. They are not comprehensive lists, and an organization’s inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by NIMH, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or the U.S. government. Many universities or medical schools have affiliated programs that offer treatment options, including training clinics. You can find these programs by searching the website of local university health centers for their psychiatry or psychology departments. You can also go to the website for the health department in your state or county to look for mental health-related programs they might offer. ## What are options for digital health care? The telephone, the internet, and mobile devices have created new opportunities for readily available and accessible treatment, including in areas where mental health professionals may not be physically available. Some of these approaches involve a therapist providing help at a distance. Others, such as web-based programs and mobile apps, are designed to provide immediate information and feedback in the absence of a therapist. NIMH provides information on and examples of [technology used for mental health treatment](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/technology-and-the-future-of-mental-health-treatment). ## How can I learn more about mental health care? ### Fact sheets - [**Children and Mental Health: Is This Just a Stage?**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/children-and-mental-health) (also available [en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/los-ninos-y-la-salud-mental)): Provides information on children’s mental health, including how to assess your child’s behavior, when to seek help, first steps for parents, treatment options, and factors to consider when choosing a mental health professional - [**My Mental Health: Do I Need Help?**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/my-mental-health-do-i-need-help) (also available [en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/necesito-ayuda-para-mi-salud-mental)[)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/necesito-ayuda-para-mi-salud-mental): Provides information on assessing your mental health and determining if you need help, including examples of mild and severe symptoms, self-care activities, and options for professional help - [**Tips for Talking With a Health Care Provider About Your Mental Health**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/tips-for-talking-with-your-health-care-provider) (also available [en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/consejos-para-hablar-con-su-proveedor)):Offers five tips to help you talk to a health care provider about your mental health and get the most out of your visit - [**Getting Mental Health Support Virtually**](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/what-is-telemental-health) (also available [en español)](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/telesalud-mental): Provides information about telehealth for mental health services, including potential benefits and drawbacks of this kind of care and factors to consider when looking for a provider ### Federal resources - [**Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality**](https://www.ahrq.gov/) : Find resources and information about health care, including data and tools to help you make informed health decisions. - [**Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)**](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help): Learn about treatment options and ways to find treatment and access support. - [**PubMed (National Library of Medicine)**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) : Read in-depth research articles on therapies for mental health disorders by using the PubMed database of medical literature to search for articles by topic. ### Health hotlines - [**988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline**](https://988lifeline.org/) : This lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. Call or text **988** to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat at [**988lifeline.org**](https://988lifeline.org/) . Para ayuda **en español, llame al 988**. - [**Disaster Distress Helpline**](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline) : People affected by any disaster or tragedy can call this helpline, sponsored by SAMHSA, to receive immediate counseling. Call or text **1-800-985-5990** to connect with a trained professional from the closest crisis counseling center within the network. - [**SAMHSA’s National Helpline**](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline) : This helpline provides free and confidential treatment referral to local facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call **1-800-662-HELP (4357)**. - [**Veterans Crisis Line**](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/) : This crisis line is a free, confidential resource for veterans of all ages and circumstances. Dial **988** andpress 1, text **838255**, or [**chat online**](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/) to connect with 24/7 support. - [**More NIH Health Information Lines**](https://www.nih.gov/health-information/health-info-lines) **Last Reviewed:** February 2024
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