“Is psychotherapy necessary for schizophrenia?”

No but it's helpful. Patient's who have mental health issues who see both a physician and an outpatient counselor do 50% better than those who just see a physician. The patient is more consistent with taking their medication and is better able to cope with the difficulties that come with their diagnosis.

I think the type and severity will determine the answer to your question. A lot of cases of schizophrenia are treated with phamaceutical interventions in addition to psychotherapy. I would always encourage psychotherapy to be a part of the process.

It will help along with medication

Once the client is stabilized, psychotherapy will be necessary to enable the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia to work on emotions, enhance motivation, as resistance and avoidance, in multiple areas of functioning, can be common. Psychotherapy alone will not be a sufficient form of treatment as medication management with a psychiatrist will need to continue, combined with case management support to monitor and encourage practice of medication compliance, as well as daily living and coping skills. Time, patience, and genuine support for the individual, will also be needed.

Schizophrenia treatment will center on managing your symptoms. You may need to stay on medication for a long time, possibly even for life. Psychotherapy, a kind of talk therapy, will likely also be a big part of the plan to help you understand and manage your symptoms.