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Counselling and Psychological Services
Access individual counselling and talk therapy with our counsellors
Counselling is a type of talking therapy that allows a person to talk about their problems and feelings in a confidential environment.
A counsellor is trained to listen with empathy. They can help you deal with any unhealthy thoughts and feelings you have.
Sometimes the term "counselling" is used to refer to talking therapies in general, but counselling is also a type of therapy in its own right.
We can only offer to see patients for counselling who are currently registered at Putneymead Group Medical Practice or at Student Medical Centre (SMC).
Direct Access - Mental Health Assessment
I want to speak to a counsellor
If you are struggling with your mood or with stress and wish to speak to someone about it, you can book one of our "I want to speak to a counsellor" appointments online or via our reception team. Appointments are available Monday and Wednesday.
These are short telephone appointments like one you would normally have with your doctor. During this appointment, the counsellor will discuss with you suitable treatment options and refer you or inform you how to access psychological support.
You do not need to speak to a GP first. You can book your appointment with the counsellor directly. Our counsellors will be able to help you with psychological, emotional, and mental health issues. You would need to talk to your GP if you have any medical concerns.
You can also choose to self-refer for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with Wandsworth IAPT team.
Individual Counselling
Individual counselling isn't the same as having a chat with a friend or family member. It's a confidential and non-judgmental experience with a specially trained mental health professional.
Through the allocated sessions, the mental health concerns that you have will be discussed and addressed in an empathetic and supportive manner.
How can I access counselling services?
There are two ways to access counselling service:
- By making an appointment with your GP and discussing suitability for counselling
- Via Direct Access - Mental Health Assessment with one of our counsellors
Benefits of Counselling
- Improved life-skills and strategies
- Increased self-awareness
- Increased self-understanding and self confidence
- Improved relationships
- Improved wellbeing
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Self empowerment
- A clearer life path
Crisis Support
Life Threatening
Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
- if you feel suicidal or feel like harming yourself or other people
- you have seriously harmed yourself - for example, by taking a drug overdose
A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a medical emergency.
Non-urgent
Use NHS 111 if:
- You need help now, but it's not an emergency
There will be someone to provide you with advice and to direct you to a clinician if it is necessary.
Mental Health Services
If you are already receiving support from mental health services you should have a care plan. This will include details of who you should contact in a crisis.
If you can't find your care plan:
During the day Contact your Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) and ask for your care co-ordinator or the person on duty.
Emotional support: If you would like to offload or talk to someone about your problems, then you may find an emotional support line useful.