2 minute read
THE CHANGING FACE OF THERAPY
This year has seen an increase in mental health issues, with talking therapies more in demand than ever. The strains of living in lockdown, job losses, and relationship difficulties have seen people seeking help on an unprecedented scale.
The pandemic has also meant face to face sessions have had to stop, replaced by remote sessions online or by phone.
SO HOW DO PEOPLE GET THEIR THERAPY NOW? AND IS IT WORKING?
At Talk Liverpool, Mersey Care’s IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) service for the Liverpool area, huge effort has gone into setting up a robust virtual system so increased demands can be met.
Engagement lead Claire Webster says there’s no 'one size fits all' and not everyone wants or is able to have therapy through a video platform.
“There are lots of reasons why someone doesn’t want to go online. It could be that they are anxious about how they look; they are trying to home school, or they may not have privacy.
Not everyone is familiar with technology, so going on an online platform may add to their anxiety. It could be that they don’t have Wi-Fi. Or they may just prefer the anonymity of talking by phone. We’ll work with them so they get the best from their therapy."
For some, like student Helen (story further below) online is the only way.
“They are reassured by seeing someone’s face, knowing you’re 'in the room’ with them. There are often silences during therapy that may feel uncomfortable to some people. They want to be able to see the therapist.
“There’s sometimes a fear of the unknown. We’ll try anything we can to make sure people get the support they need in a way that suits them.”
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO PEOPLE WHO ARE ANXIOUS ABOUT EMBARKING ON A THERAPY PROGRAMME?
“Give it a go. If you’re struggling go to your GP and ask for a referral, self refer online, or give us a call on 0151 228 2300. We will do everything we can to facilitate the referral process.”
Talk Liverpool engagement lead Claire Webster.
WHAT HAPPENS THEN?
Once you have made the referral a member of the Talk Liverpool business support team will contact you to book an assessment with a therapist.
The therapist will explain what help or support is available, give you information about what works best for depression and anxiety, and, if the service is right for you, recommend the best treatment programme.
It is recommend that everyone coming into the Talk Liverpool service has a course or computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatment first. This is because these treatments can help you to feel better quickly and easily.
Most people with depression, anxiety and panic attacks find that a course of treatment or computerised CBT is all they need to set them on their way to feeling better.
The Talk Liverpool website shows testimonies from patients and the therapies on offer. talkliverpool.nhs.uk
