specialistVerified Medical Guide

Who is a Mental Health Therapist?

A mental health therapist is a trained professional who helps people deal with emotional, psychological, and behavioural challenges that affect their daily life. They work with individuals, couples, and families to address issues such as stress, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. If you are struggling with your thoughts, feelings, or behaviour, a mental health therapist can provide a safe space to talk and guide you towards feeling better.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Mental Health Therapist

Listens to and assesses a patient's emotional and mental health concerns
Diagnoses and treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma
Provides talk therapy (counselling) sessions to help patients understand and manage their feelings
Teaches coping skills and practical strategies for handling stress and difficult situations
Supports patients going through grief, loss, or major life changes
Works with couples and families to improve communication and resolve conflicts
Monitors progress over time and adjusts the treatment plan as needed
Refers patients to a psychiatrist when medication may also be needed

When to See a Mental Health Therapist

You should consider booking an consultation if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or conditions:

  • Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty for more than two weeks
  • Constant worry or fear that is hard to control
  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much due to emotional distress
  • Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
  • Experiencing flashbacks or nightmares after a traumatic event
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life
  • Struggling with alcohol or drug use
  • Going through a difficult divorce, bereavement, or job loss
  • Frequent arguments or serious problems in your relationship or family
  • Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with daily responsibilities

Conditions & Visit Reasons

Select a specific condition to learn more or search for specialists offering directed therapy plans:

Conditions Treated

Common conditions that a Mental Health Therapist can diagnose, manage, or treat:

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Also known as: Impotence, Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, Erectile issues, Male sexual dysfunction, Erection problems

Tiredness

Also known as: loss of energy, malaise, tiredness

Mental health

Types of Mental Health Therapist Specialists

Clinical Psychologist

A psychologist who specialises in assessing and treating serious mental health conditions using structured psychological therapies.

Counselling Therapist

Focuses on helping people work through everyday emotional difficulties, relationship issues, and life transitions through guided conversation.

Child and Adolescent Therapist

Specialises in supporting children and teenagers with emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges.

Trauma Therapist

Helps patients heal from traumatic experiences such as abuse, accidents, or violence using specialised therapy techniques.

Couples and Family Therapist

Works with couples and families to improve relationships, resolve conflicts, and strengthen communication.

Addiction Counsellor

Supports individuals struggling with alcohol, drug, or behavioural addictions through counselling and recovery planning.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

At your first appointment, the therapist will take time to listen to your concerns and ask questions about your feelings, daily life, and personal history — there is nothing to fear, as everything you share is kept confidential. They will not judge you; their goal is simply to understand what you are going through so they can find the best way to help. By the end of the session, they will discuss a plan with you, which may include regular therapy sessions and, if needed, a referral to a doctor for further support.

Training & Education Credentials

Mental health therapists typically hold a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by a master's degree or postgraduate diploma in counselling or clinical psychology. In Ghana and across West Africa, practitioners are expected to be registered with the relevant national health or psychology regulatory body before they can practise.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to see a mental health therapist in Ghana?

The cost of therapy in Ghana varies depending on the therapist's qualifications and location. Sessions at private clinics can range from GHS 150 to GHS 500 or more, while some NGOs, community health centres, and teaching hospitals offer lower-cost or free counselling services. It is worth asking about fees before your first appointment.

What should I bring to my first therapy appointment?

You do not need to bring much — just yourself and a willingness to talk. If you have any previous medical or psychiatric records, it can be helpful to bring them along. You may also want to write down the main concerns or feelings you want to discuss so you do not forget anything during the session.

How do I prepare for my first session with a therapist?

Try to arrive a few minutes early and think about what has been troubling you most. There are no right or wrong answers — just speak honestly about how you have been feeling. Remember that the therapist is there to help you, not to judge you, so you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.

When should I seek urgent help for a mental health problem?

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harming others, seek help immediately — go to the nearest hospital emergency unit or call a trusted person right away. You should also seek urgent care if someone is completely unable to care for themselves, is hearing or seeing things that are not there, or is behaving in a way that puts them or others at risk.

Is what I tell my therapist kept private?

Yes, everything you share with your therapist is confidential and will not be shared with your family, employer, or anyone else without your permission. The only exception is if the therapist believes you or someone else is in immediate danger — in that case, they may need to involve other professionals to keep everyone safe. Your privacy is taken very seriously.

Book a Mental Health Therapist

Find verified board-certified Mental Health Therapists on DrDoGood. Compare reviews, check real-time availability, and schedule your appointment online.

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Ethel
Accepting Patients

Dr. Ethel Obeng-Treve

Mental Health Therapist

Mrs. Ethel Obeng-Treve is a registered Clinical Psychologist and consultant with a specialization working with children and adolescents. Her extensive training in both Ghana and the UK has provided her with a versatile skill set, enabling her to effectively support individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. In this decade long career, she has successfully helped individuals navigate a range of emotional and behavioural challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and developmental disorders. As the Executive Director of Fafanto Psych Organization, Ethel and her team of professionals are dedicated to promoting mental health and wellbeing, reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing dependable mental health support through comprehensive assessments and interventions including therapy, counselling and family support programs. With a strong focus on collaboration, Ethel and her team, work with individuals, families, students and schools, serving as a counselor and consultant at various educational institutions to foster positive environment and psychological growth. Additionally, she and the team offer Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services offering guidance to numerous organizations, further extending their expertise and commitment to mental well-being

Dorcas
Accepting Patients

Dr. Dorcas Ntiamoah

Mental Health Therapist

Clinical Health Psychologist|| Psycho-Oncologist|| Certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist|| Psychological Educator A Licensed Clinical Health Psychologist with Ghana Psychological Council (GPC), a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with years of experience in performing clinical interview and psychological assessment, psychological testing, scoring and interpretation, diagnosing of psychological conditions and providing psychotherapy. Highly Patient Centered.

IA
Accepting Patients

Dr. Israel Agbeja

Mental Health Therapist

A psychologist with experience using eclectic approaches to provide support to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, anger management, and personal growth concerns. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can discuss their experiences and work toward healthier emotional well-being using practical, evidence-based approaches.

Samuel
Accepting Patients

Dr. Samuel Panti

Mental Health Therapist

Samuel Gyandoh Panti is a licensed Clinical Health Psychologist with a passion for promoting mental health in children, young adults, and families. He brings years of experience as a therapist and advocate to his work. He is passionate about guiding his clients to understand the power of the mind in relation to their mental and holistic health and passionate about sleep hygiene. Samuel also consults as a school counselor and child protection officer at the Wellbeing and Counseling Division of Al-Rayan International School.

Andrew
Accepting Patients

Dr. Andrew Decker

Mental Health Therapist

Neuroscience informed clinical practice.

ES
Accepting Patients

Dr. Emmanuel Sackey

Mental Health Therapist

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