This online screening is not a diagnostic tool. Only a trained medical professional, such as a doctor or mental health professional, can help you determine the next best steps for you.

We all have experienced moments of stress and anxiety in our lives. Many of us are no strangers to the emotional and mental challenges brought on by problems at work, financial worries, issues in our relationships, or grief over the loss of a loved one.

Sometimes we can handle these challenges on our own or with the help of friends and family members we trust.

But what about when these feelings become so overwhelming that they seem to weigh you down? Who do you turn to then?

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a common treatment for a number of mental health conditions, but it can also help with day-to-day challenges and concerns.

Not all psychotherapy is the same, and not all therapists offer the same services in the same way. And, contrary to popular belief, not all therapists have a chaise lounge or couch in their office for you to lie on.

Therapy can be one-on-one, in a group setting, or done as a family. If face-to-face therapy isn’t the best option for you, there are options for online therapy.

There are many therapeutic approaches depending on your unique needs. A few common psychotherapy approaches include:

People seek therapy for many reasons — from needing help dealing with a mental health condition to just needing someone to talk with.

Therapy can be effective for a variety of situations. A 2019 review found that psychotherapy was helpful across several problem areas. The review also suggested that routine psychotherapy was especially helpful for those who had severe distress.

How effective therapy is for you will depend on you, your unique needs, and how much work you do between and during sessions. You can also see a therapist for just a few sessions or longer, depending on your needs.

No matter the topic, there’s no reason to be ashamed of seeking additional help and support. Therapy can offer a safe space for you to talk and just be yourself.

Finding the right therapist can be crucial to your decision on whether therapy is the best option for you and your needs. It can take some time but it will be worth it.

If you’re considering therapy but not sure where to start, you can check out Psych Central’s hub for finding mental health support.

This brief, time-saving questionnaire is designed for anyone who thinks they may benefit from therapy.

Psychotherapy has the ability to benefit everyone.

Anyone can attend therapy to improve or work through any concerns — from improving relationships at home to getting tools to improve focus and concentration.

This test consists of 12 questions that relate to how you’ve felt and behaved during the past month. For each question, try to respond as honestly as possible to get an accurate assessment.

Your responses will help determine whether you may need additional help and professional support for a concerning life issue.

A mental health professional can also help figure out if your issues might be a symptom of a mental health condition and recommend treatment if needed.

This online screening is not a definitive tool. It will not conclusively guarantee that you will benefit from therapy.

However, it can be useful if you’re thinking about therapy and want to determine whether therapy is the right option for you.

Only a trained medical professional, such as a doctor or mental health professional, can help you determine the next best steps for you.