Integrative counselling: what the research says

Integrative therapy blends methods and has not been studied as one method. Ask which methods are used; some, such as CBT, have evidence.

What a session is

An integrative therapist combines ideas and tools from several talking therapies, such as counselling, CBT or hypnotherapy, to suit you. Sessions vary from therapist to therapist.

What the research says

• Low mood: Not studied as one method. Studies of talking therapies in general find that the main types help depression, with few differences between them. No good evidence yet · World Psychiatry (network meta-analysis), 2021 · NICE, 2022
• Worry and anxiety: Not studied as one method. For long-lasting anxiety, UK guidance recommends CBT or applied relaxation, so ask whether these are part of your sessions. No good evidence yet · NICE, 2020
• Stress, sleep, pain, menopause and grief: Not studied as one method in the sources we use. Some of the methods it borrows, such as CBT, have their own evidence. No good evidence yet · NHS, 2026 · NHS, 2024 · NHS, 2026

More on each need: Lift your mood · Feel calmer · Handle stress better

Is it safe?

Ask which methods your therapist uses and what training they have. If you have bipolar disorder, psychosis, an eating disorder or a personality disorder, talk to your GP first. Choose a therapist on a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority. NHS, 2025 · NHS, 2025

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

Sessions on Sissoo

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Checked 22 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.