Cassiobury Court
Private
Richmond Drive, Watford WD17 3BG
Mental health support in the UK
Mental health care covers talking therapies (counselling and psychotherapy), psychiatry, and specialist services for addiction and rehabilitation. Support is available on the NHS and privately. This page is general information and signposting — it is not a substitute for professional help. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. If you need urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option, or contact Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time.
Routes to support
- NHS Talking Therapies — in England you can self-refer for help with anxiety and depression without seeing your GP first.
- Your GP — a good starting point for assessment and referral.
- Private counselling & psychotherapy — therapists should be registered with a recognised professional body such as the BACP, UKCP or NCPS.
- Private psychiatry — psychiatrists are doctors registered with the GMC; clinics and rehab services in England are CQC-registered.
Choosing a therapist or clinic
Check that a therapist is registered with an accredited body, and that any clinic or rehabilitation service holds the relevant CQC registration and rating. It is normal to ask about their approach, experience and fees before starting.
You are not alone
Many people seek help with their mental health, and effective support exists. HealthWise lists providers to help you find support; it does not provide treatment or clinical advice.
Last updated: 2026-07-22
Frequently Asked Questions
In England you can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies for help with anxiety and depression, without going through your GP — though your GP is also a good starting point. For urgent support, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
Counselling and psychotherapy are not statutorily regulated, but reputable therapists are registered with an accredited professional body such as the BACP, UKCP or NCPS. It is reasonable to ask about a therapist's training, registration, experience and fees before starting.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option. You can also contact Samaritans free, day or night, on 116 123.
Yes. Psychiatrists are doctors registered with the General Medical Council, and private psychiatric and rehabilitation clinics in England are registered with and inspected by the Care Quality Commission.