Therapies: Talking and self-help

Talking therapies involve talking to a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. For some problems and conditions, one type of talking therapy may be better than another. Different talking therapies also suit different people.

Self-help therapy usually involves reading books and using online tools. It has some advantages over professional face-to-face counselling. It's convenient, cheap, and you can do it when it suits you.

Self-help therapy can also be a useful first step if you're not sure you need talking therapy help.

It can be convenient if you don't want to have face-to-face therapy for cultural or family reasons. Or if you have health or mobility problems.