During a Talking Therapies welcome call, a practitioner from the Talking Therapies service will talk to you on the phone. They will ask about your mental health history, your current symptoms and how they affect your daily life, and what you want to achieve.

The practitioner will explain the different services and treatments that the Talking Therapies service offers. They will work with you to set goals and find the right therapeutic input for you.

The welcome call is an important first step to make sure you get the right help and support from the Talking Therapies service.

You will be asked to complete questionnaires to help your practitioner understand your symptoms. These will be emailed or posted to you before the welcome call.

Welcome calls are usually completed over the telephone. if you are unable to complete an appointment over the telephone please let us know when you self refer and we will offer the assessment face to face or via webcam. Feel free to take notes or ask questions.

 

You will need access to a safe, confidential space so you feel able to talk freely without distraction or interruption. Please don't engage in activities like driving or shopping during your welcome call. This is to ensure your safety and privacy.  If you are driving we will not be able to complete the call, even if you are using a hands free device.

Welcome calls usually last 30 minutes.

Following your welcome call, if it's felt that Talking Therapies would be a helpful treatment for you, your practitioner will discuss your treatment options with you. You can read more about the treatment types we offer here.

 

Please be aware that we can only offer NICE recommended treatment pathways.