For mild to moderate depression and anxiety, cognitive behaviour therapy is often preferred over pills, but awareness about misjudged therapies is generally very low.
For the study, the researchers analysed data routinely collected by therapists as well as the results of clinical trials.
They included point scores of the levels of depression before and after courses of treatment and self-reported levels of wellbeing.
They interviewed therapists and clients to find out what goes wrong and when and how.
The researchers have used the findings from the research project to set up a website called supporting safe therapy to help people going through any form of psychological counselling and offers guidance on what to expect and advice if things go wrong, The Guardian reported.
