About depression
Persistent sadness, loss of interest, tiredness, sleep changes or difficulty concentrating for weeks can be signs of depression. Psychotherapy is an effective treatment, alone or combined with medication prescribed by a psychiatrist or doctor. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, contact emergency services or a crisis line straight away.
Clinical psychologists are psychologists with specialist training in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health problems, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. In some countries it is a regulated health specialty; Therapy247 checks the registration.
Getting mental health care in Denmark
Public health system · Regional public health insurance (sygesikring) – psykologbehandling med henvisning
People in specified referral groups can get psychologist treatment with a referral from their own GP or the out-of-hours doctor, and can choose freely among private psychologists who have an agreement with the regions. The region pays 60 percent of the fee and the patient pays 40 percent; certain young adults with depression or anxiety pay nothing.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Danish Patient Safety Authority (Styrelsen for Patientsikkerhed); previously Psykolognævnet. Since 1 January 2026 psychologists are authorised health professionals under the Patient Safety Authority, which took over authorisation and supervision from Psykolognævnet. Check that the psychologist appears in the authorisation register. Search the official register
- Danish Patient Safety Authority (Styrelsen for Patientsikkerhed). Doctors, including psychiatrists, must hold a Danish authorisation, which can be checked in the authorisation register. Search the official register
Insurance and coverage
Only authorised private psychologists with an agreement with the regions can offer the subsidised scheme; without an agreement, or without a qualifying referral, the client pays the full fee.
Urgent help in Denmark
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 112 · Emergencias
- 70 201 201 · Livslinien
- 39 25 25 25 · Psykiatrifondens rådgivning
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: lovguiden.dk, lovguiden.dk, regioner.dk, autregweb.stps.dk
Signs to look out for
Everyone has low days, especially after a setback. It is worth seeking help when sadness, emptiness or irritability last most of the day for weeks, when you lose interest in things you used to enjoy, or when you notice changes in sleep, appetite, energy or concentration. Feeling worthless, guilty or that nothing will improve, and withdrawing from people, are also common signs.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for depression. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), behavioural activation, interpersonal therapy and some psychodynamic approaches have good evidence. Psychologists, clinical psychologists and psychotherapists provide therapy; a psychiatrist or family doctor can assess whether medication is appropriate, which is often considered for moderate or severe depression. Combining therapy with medical follow-up is common and can work well.
When to seek urgent help
If you are thinking about suicide, have a plan, or feel you might act on thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department now. If you are worried about someone else, stay with them if it is safe and seek help immediately. Telling someone close to you how you feel is an important first step.
What you can do in the meantime
Small steps matter: try to get up at a similar time each day, go outside, move a little, eat regular meals and do one manageable activity that used to bring you some satisfaction, even if you do not feel like it. Avoid using alcohol to cope. Stay in touch with at least one person you trust, and be patient with yourself while you seek professional support.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children, adults or older people. Day to day they conduct clinical interviews, use validated questionnaires and tests, formulate what keeps the problem going, and deliver evidence-based therapies. They often work in hospitals, community mental health teams or private practice, and coordinate with psychiatrists, family doctors and social services.
When to see a clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist is a good choice for moderate to severe or persistent difficulties: anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive problems, trauma, eating disorders, personality difficulties, or when a formal diagnosis or report is needed. If medication may be needed or there is a risk to safety, a psychiatrist should also be involved. For coaching or personal growth, other professionals may fit better.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Denmark cover psychological care?
People in specified referral groups can get psychologist treatment with a referral from their own GP or the out-of-hours doctor, and can choose freely among private psychologists who have an agreement with the regions. The region pays 60 percent of the fee and the patient pays 40 percent; certain young adults with depression or anxiety pay nothing.
How do I check that a clinical psychologist is licensed in Denmark?
Danish Patient Safety Authority (Styrelsen for Patientsikkerhed); previously Psykolognævnet: Since 1 January 2026 psychologists are authorised health professionals under the Patient Safety Authority, which took over authorisation and supervision from Psykolognævnet. Check that the psychologist appears in the authorisation register.