Mental Health and Counselling in Phuket: Therapists, Hospitals and Crisis Help

If you need help right now

• Call 1669 for an ambulance, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Private hospitals such as Bangkok Hospital Phuket have 24-hour emergency services with English-speaking staff.
• The Thai Department of Mental Health runs a 24-hour mental health hotline reported as 1323, mainly in Thai. Samaritans of Thailand run an English-language line, and sources give different numbers for it, so check its website for the current one.
• If you are in your home country's care, your embassy, insurer or travel assistance line can also help you find urgent care.

If a friend is in crisis, stay with them if it is safe, and help them reach a hospital or call 1669.

Types of support

• Counsellors and psychologists offer talking therapy for stress, low mood, anxiety, relationship and adjustment issues.
• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication.
• Hospital mental health departments, such as the centre at Bangkok Hospital Phuket, combine psychiatry and psychology in one place.
• Online therapy platforms connect you with therapists in your own country and language.

A doctor's referral is generally not needed to see a psychologist in the private sector, but check with the clinic.

What it costs

Guides give wide ranges. Private therapists and psychologists in Phuket are commonly quoted at about 2,000 to 4,000 baht a session, hospital psychiatry consultations at roughly 1,500 to 5,000 baht, and online therapy at roughly 1,500 to 2,500 baht or about 60 to 90 US dollars a week. Initial visits cost more than follow-ups.

Waiting times can be longer in the high season, and some hospital departments take appointments only by phone. Ask about English-speaking staff, fees and whether the clinic can give you a medical certificate or letter if you need one.

Insurance and medication

Some higher-tier expat plans cover therapy, and others exclude mental health or cap the number of sessions. Read your policy and ask the insurer before you book. Our health and insurance guide explains how private hospitals bill.

If you take prescribed medication, read the guide to pharmacies and bringing medicine, because some mental health medicines are controlled drugs with import rules. Do not stop or change medication without medical advice.

Staying well in Phuket

• Build a routine and see people. The social life guide and the volunteering guide cover clubs and groups.
• Exercise, and see the gyms guide for options.
• Learn some Thai. The learning Thai guide covers schools and apps.
• Limit alcohol, which is cheap and easy to overuse in tourist areas.
• Keep in touch with family and friends at home, and tell someone if you are struggling.

If you are a long-term resident with a partner or children who also struggle with the move, schools and clinics can often refer you to family counselling.