We have recently rolled out a wellbeing course across our Primary Care Mental Health (PCMH) services that brings clients together for group therapy sessions.
The course, delivered over five weeks, is designed to help clients gain a greater understanding of their feelings and emotions, looking at triggers and vicious cycles, and how to manage these more effectively in a group setting.
This course was introduced to expand our PCMH’s offer to clients, which was developed by our Practice Development Lead and the Clinical Psychology Team. After completing a pilot and evaluation, we rolled out three additional cohorts.
It's open to all PCMH clients who are identified as appropriate for group support after we have completed an initial helpful conversation.
What is the purpose of the course?
The course provides brief mental health intervention, as well as peer support which people don't typically get when engaging in one-to-one sessions. It's also a stepping stone for clients for further group work outside of PCMH, which they can engage with independently.
What impact it is having on clients?
We’ve had some brilliant feedback so far for this new course.
One client said: “The course has been extremely beneficial for my mental wellbeing. Initially I was unsure about whether they could assist with my issue, but as the course went on, I became more clear and confident, not only with myself, but also their ability to help. Our team was wonderful, open and honest. Shared experiences gave a wider perspective on our own behaviour.”
Another client said: “The facilitators were both wonderful, really cared and concerned about state of mind. Liked getting handouts. Felt comfortable in the group which seemed to be due to the presenters but also other nice attendees. Presenters open to feedback which is great.”
This is a guest blog, written by Adam Ambrose, our Deputy Operational Team Manager.
