The answer depends on the issue you are experiencing:
For problems with relationships or parenting, psychotherapy is usually the first recommendation.
For depression, cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy may be enough, or may require antidepressant medications.
For anxiety disorders, cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy may be enough, or may need to be combined with anti-anxiety medications.
For alcohol and drug use disorders, cognitive-behavioral therapy or environment-based therapy, as well as 12-step support programs, will be necessary. People with severe substance use problems may also benefit from medications that reduce drug or alcohol cravings or intoxicating effects.
For eating disorders, cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy may work alone, or may need to be combined with antidepressant medications and medical supervision.
For schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, most people will require treatment with antipsychotic or mood-stabilizing medications, as well as cognitive-behavioral or family psychotherapy to improve their outcomes.