Eva Mendes "loves" therapy.

The 'Bad Lieutenant' actress - who spent time in rehab in 2008 for an undisclosed condition - thinks it is important for her to always find them time to discuss her problems with a professional, and will even arrange telephone appointments if she can't make a session in person because of working commitments.

She said: "I love therapy. There is nothing like going into a room and sitting down and talking to someone who has no emotional investment in your life. Having that person who is only committed to helping you be better, I just love it.

"I go once a week and, if not, then every two weeks. And if I'm away I phone in. It's so necessary, especially in my business."

The 36-year-old star believes it is important to always face her fears and confront difficult situations - even risking drowning because she was so determined to learn to swim.

She told You magazine: "Fight them head on. Just be honest with yourself and face it. That's everything in life for me. I didn't know how to swim, so I asked my friend to throw me off a boat. I know it's crazy, but I did it and I survived."

Eva has been dating filmmaker George Gargurevich for eight years but admits she is still unsure if she wants to marry or have children.

She said: "If I were to get married I'd probably do it in my basement. As for starting a family, I'm honestly not there yet, but who knows? I'm not a planner - so if it happens, it happens. I have seven nephews and nieces and they keep me happy on that front."