Evidence-based mental health

    Therapy or medication?
    Here's what the research says

    For mild to moderate anxiety, depression, and burnout, evidence-based therapy is as effective as medication, with more lasting results.

    What's the difference?

    Understanding your options

    Clinical psychologist

    Treats anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and ADD through structured, evidence-based therapy and formal clinical assessments. Focuses on root causes.

    Most effective

    Counsellor

    Provides talk-based support for life challenges, stress, grief, and relationships. Works alongside psychologists for holistic care.

    Most accessible

    Psychiatrist

    A medical doctor who prescribes medication for mental health conditions. Best suited for severe or complex psychiatric conditions.

    Symptom relief

    Did you know?

    Psychiatric medications are clinically designed to manage symptoms, not cure the underlying condition.

    56% of people who stop antidepressants relapse within one year of stopping.

    Evidence-based therapies like CBT and ACT build coping skills and psychological flexibility that remain long after therapy ends, reducing the risk of relapse without ongoing medication.

    *Lewis et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2021 (UCL study, 478 primary care patients, England)

    Important: For severe conditions including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and psychosis, medication is medically necessary and should not be replaced by therapy alone. If you are currently on prescribed medication, always consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment. Therapy and medication can also work together effectively for many conditions.

    The evidence

    What does the research show?

    60-80%
    of people with anxiety and depression show significant improvement through evidence-based therapy including CBT and ACT
    American Psychological Association, 2023
    100+
    randomised controlled trials confirm CBT and ACT are as effective as, and often more effective than, antidepressants, without the side effects or dependency risk
    Cuijpers et al., World Psychiatry, 2023
    56%
    of people who stop antidepressants relapse within one year. Therapy builds skills that remain after treatment ends, reducing relapse risk without ongoing medication
    Lewis et al., New England Journal of Medicine, UCL, 2021

    Is therapy right for me?

    Therapy works well for

    Anxiety and panic attacks
    Depression and low mood
    Burnout and work stress
    ADHD & ADD management
    Relationship difficulties
    Trauma and PTSD
    Anger management
    Low self-esteem
    Grief and loss
    Life transitions

    If you are currently on prescribed medication, please consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment.

    How we can help

    What Relationary offers

    CBT & ACT Therapy

    One-on-one sessions using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), two of the most researched psychological therapies in the world. In-person and online.

    View individual therapy

    ADHD & ADD assessments

    Comprehensive clinical assessments for ADHD and ADD across all ages. Reports accepted by schools, employers, and exam boards.

    Book an assessment

    Free discovery call

    Not sure where to start? Book a free 15-minute call with our team. No commitment required.

    Book now
    Relationary is an Authorised Clinical Assessment Provider
    Our clinical psychologists are credentialed to conduct and certify formal assessments for ADHD, ADD, learning disabilities, and psychoeducational evaluations accepted by IGCSE, IB, and Malaysian institutions.

    Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council (MAHPC) registered practice · Authorised assessment provider · Subang Jaya & online · English, BM & Mandarin

    Common questions

    FAQ

    What is ACT and how is it different from CBT?

    ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) is a third-wave Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, an evolution of CBT developed in the 1980s and 1990s with its own strong evidence base. Where CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns, ACT focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings without judgment, and committing to actions aligned with your values. Both are equally effective. Your psychologist will recommend the most appropriate approach in your first session, or may combine elements of both.

    Does psychiatric medication cure mental health conditions?

    No. Psychiatric medications are clinically designed to manage symptoms while you take them, not cure the underlying condition. Most major guidelines, including NHS NICE, recommend evidence-based therapy alongside or instead of medication for mild to moderate conditions, because therapy addresses root causes and produces more lasting results. For severe conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or psychosis, medication is medically necessary. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to prescribed treatment.

    Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

    No. You can book directly with us online without a referral from a doctor or psychiatrist.

    How is a psychologist different from a psychiatrist?

    A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. A psychologist uses evidence-based therapy and formal assessments to identify and treat the root causes of mental health challenges.

    Can you assess and diagnose ADHD and ADD?

    Yes. Relationary is an authorised clinical assessment provider. Our psychologists conduct comprehensive ADHD and ADD assessments for children and adults. Reports are accepted by schools, employers, IGCSE, and IB institutions.

    Is therapy covered by insurance in Malaysia?

    Some corporate insurance plans and EAP programmes cover therapy sessions. We can provide official receipts for claims.

    How long does therapy take?

    Most clients see meaningful progress within 6–12 sessions. Your psychologist will discuss a personalised plan in your first session.

    Can I do therapy online?

    Yes. All our services are available online via secure video call, as well as in-person at our Subang Jaya centre.

    Ready to talk?

    Book a free 15-minute consultation.
    No commitment. No pressure.