How to access free psychological therapies (talking therapies)

Anxiety, stress, depression – virtual talking therapy groups can help

Now more than ever, it’s good to talk.

The coronavirus pandemic has challenged us all and is adding to levels of anxiety.

Talking Therapies which are based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques offer effective tools to help us learn how to better manage stressful life situations.

Overview

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) aims to help people become capable of working out their own ways of tackling problems and to genuinely change habits.

There is also evidence that CBT can be as effective as anti-depressants in many types of depression.

Just as we’ve all had to find new ways of connecting with one another and engaging with the world, the team at DHC Talking Therapies have been offering virtual talking therapy groups where people can get help from the comfort of their own space.

You can sign yourself up without the need to contact your GP.

Refer yourself here.

Call 01483 906392 to speak to the team.

Why it's used:

Talking therapies can help with these common mental health problems:

Anxiety
Stress
Depression

Talking Therapies are also proven to combat low mood and help people deal with difficult life events and traumas such as grief and loss.

Learn more about free Talking Therapies.

5 techniques you will learn in a talking therapy group?

Why you might be feeling low or anxious
How to boost behaviour in line with your values
How to manage your moods better and unhelpful thoughts
Relaxation and refocussing techniques
How to decrease worries by scheduling ‘worry time’

What happens during a group therapy session?

Groups typically run for 4 – 6 weeks
Groups are held weekly on Zoom
A different theme is explored each week
There is a mix of presentations and exercises
Groups offer the opportunity to learn from the experience of others
Booklets and other resources are available during and after the course

Virtual therapy groups offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can share some of your experiences, but there is no pressure to talk if you don’t feel like it.

Thinking about joining a group can be nerve-wracking, but feedback from people who have taken part in groups is that it is a great opportunity to share with others and recognise that you are not alone in how you feel.

“A fantastic course, I really learned a lot and felt much more at ease than I thought I would.”

Read more testimonials and reviews from patients in Surrey here.

There are even special groups for people who are recovering from psychological symptoms arising from coronavirus and for women who are pregnant or have a baby under 18 months old and are suffering anxiety or low mood associated with the perinatal period.

Learn more.

How to join a virtual therapy group

DHC Talking Therapies offer 30 locations around Surrey to make it as easy as possible for people to access services – this is under normal circumstances – during the pandemic, the majority of therapy is carried out virtually with one to one sessions available for a small number of people based upon their needs.

This service is free on the NHS if you are aged 17+ and registered with a Surrey GP.

First, you will be required to take part in an initial assessment by phone with an experienced member of the team.

You can sign yourself up to a group by visiting the DHC Talking Therapies website.

Call 01483 906392 to speak to the team.

Follow DHC Talking Therapies on social media