Counselling and Psychological Services

Due to the coronavirus, there will be no face-to-face counselling services until further notice.

Following NHS Guidelines, this has been implemented in order to reduce the risk of viral transmission.

All of our counselling services will now be delivered online via video and telephone. This includes groups – mindfulness and wellbeing, bereavement and group therapy. Direct access will also be conducted by telephone.

Our priority is the health and safety of all our patients and staff.

 

Introduction

Counselling is a type of talking therapy that allows a person to talk about their problems and feelings in a confidential and dependable environment.

A counsellor is trained to listen with empathy (by putting themselves in your shoes). 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.

NB: We can only offer to see patients for counselling, who are currently registered at Putneymead Group Medical Practice or at Student Medical Centre (SMC).

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COUNSELLING  pop up window symbol (Link opens a new window)

 

Bereavement Support Group

Support groups are a way of bringing people together in a safe space to share common life experiences. The group provide a forum for participants to communicate in a mutual understanding of shared challenges and problems. The strength of support group lies in the connections and understandings that come from shared narratives. Bereavement support group provide ongoing help to participants in various ways, including:

  • normalising the grief journey
  • listening and sharing personal experiences
  • creating social networks and reducing feelings of isolation
  • discovering personal strengths and building resilience
  • providing relevant information.

bereavement support sign

For more information, click here.

 

Direct Access - Mental Health Assessment

If you are struggling with your mood or with stress and wish to speak to someone about it you can book one of our ‘Direct Access Counselling triage’ appointments with one of our experienced counsellors.

For more information, click here.

telephone handset ringing

 

Group Counselling

Group therapy is a powerful therapy tool that can be an addition or substitute for individual therapy. Because of its dynamics, it is often more potent than individual therapy. It is appropriate for anyone that wants to engage in personal development in the form of psychotherapy and is willing to do it in group format.

For more information, click here.

chairs in a circle

 

Individual Counselling

Individual counselling, isn't the same as having a chat with a friend or family member. Its a confidential and non judgmental experience with a specially trained and qualified mental health professional.

Through the allocated sessions, the mental health concerns that you have will be discussed and addressed in an emapathetic and supportive manner.

For more information, click here.

two people helping each other

 

Mindfulness Course

This course is based on established Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).

Participants are introduced to the practice of mindfulness that can be integrated into their daily life. This includes breathing meditations, body awareness and cognitive skills.

The mindfulness skills could be used to improve your health throughout the rest of your life.

mindfulness sign

For more information, click here.

 

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
 

counselling and chairs

Counselling Services

Counselling Services we offer: