Talking Change and you - what now?

 
1) First Steps:
 
Once we receive your self-referral our First Steps team will phone you to assess your needs. This call usually lasts around 15 minutes. We may at this point recommend that another service is more suitable for you. If we agree that you will continue with Talking Change, the First Steps team will invite you to use some of our recommended self-help materials. We have various materials, including workbooks, CDS, computer programmes aimed at treating anxiety and/or depression.
 
Try out the materials, read, listen to or watch the self help materials we send you. Try some of the exercises; this is likely to help improve your current symptoms. Should you need some support with using the materials, you can call the 1st Steps team at the times below on 023 9289 2920.
 

2) Review:
 
Some people find that after using the self-help materials, they are more able to manage feelings of anxiety and low mood and do not want any further support. Your review offers the chance to look again at your needs. We will review your progress with you and plan any further support you may need. This could be regular face-to-face sessions with a therapist/practitioner or referral to another service. This review meeting usually happens 4-12 weeks after self referring and working with the materials that you have been sent. You will receive a text message or letter asking you to contact us to arrange an appointment.
 
3) Further Support:
 
Depending on the outcome of your review, we can offer a range of evidence based therapies depending on your needs, including:-
 

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Guided Self-help Programmes
• Therapy Groups

If you do go on to use this part of our service having already used some of our self-help materials can help you make best use of these sessions. Completing work in between sessions and attending your therapy regularly increases your chance of making changes to your life.
 
The sessions are weekly and will generally be at the same time and day of the week, depending on your availability.