What is talking therapy? 
What is Talking Therapy?
NHS Talking Therapies is a free and confidential service provided by the NHS to help people who are dealing with common mental health conditions. Our service offers evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), counselling, and other psychological interventions that are tailored to each individual’s needs. These therapies are delivered through workshops or one-on-one sessions with trained professionals. The aim of NHS Talking Therapies is to empower individuals to manage their symptoms effectively and improve their overall mental wellbeing. Our service is available to anyone registered with a Barnsley GP and individuals can self-refer or be referred by their GP.
Make a referralHow can Barnsley Talking Therapies help me?
Once you make a referral you will work with a team of qualified and experienced professionals specially chosen to work alongside your local GP. We can help you:
- Address current problems
- Gain a new understanding of your difficulties and develop new ways of coping
- Make changes in your life
- Talk about your difficulties in a non-judgemental and supportive environment
What can you expect?
When you are referred to Talking Therapies, you will be offered an initial assessment lasting up to 45 minutes. This may be carried out over the phone or in a GP surgery. We also have clinics in centres around Barnsley. The assessment takes place with one of our friendly Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners and it is entirely confidential. They will ask you some questions about how you are feeling and this will help determine whether the IAPT service can help you.
How do I know if I need short or long-term help?
We will work with you and together decide what help and support you may need. Everyone is different so we offer different levels of support so that you get the best results – helping you to help yourself. Sometimes we recommend other services that can provide the most appropriate support for you.
Young people
You need to be aged 16 or over to access Barnsley Talking Therapies.
Children and young people who are not able to access adult talking therapies can get support with mental and emotional problems from their local children and young people’s mental health service (CYPMHS).
Pregnancy and new parents
If you’re feeling anxious or depressed during pregnancy or after becoming a parent you can also access NHS talking therapies services.
Talk to your midwife, healthcare worker or GP about your mental health, or you can refer yourself to an NHS talking therapies service online.
Older people
Talking therapies have been shown to be very successful and beneficial for older people.
Find out more about how talking helps on the Age UK website