NHS talking therapy

[TheDutchHouse]

Has anyone used this service, I filled an out an online form and they have just contacted me to confirm an emergency appointment
What to expect?

I have but it wasn't in an emergency capacity or nothing flagged on my form to make it urgent. This was in January and I only just had my first pre-screening telephone call 2 weeks ago! So a very slow process with me personally but the lady I finally spoke with was very professional and seemed keen to help so I'm keeping my hopes up. Hope you get the help you need sooner.

It wasn't an emergency for me either but I did have my assessment phone appointment very quickly after filling in my referral, within a couple of days as I recall. So not sure whether yours will be the same or whether something in your referral has triggered a different response as it's classed as an emergency.

If it is an assessment appointment though it usually takes 30-45 minutes, they will ask you some initial questions and then probably ask you to talk a bit about why you contacted them and what you're hoping to get from the service. I've actually re-referred myself recently so just been through the process again and both times everyone I've spoken to has been really good. I had a fairly lengthy course of CBT last time and my therapist was incredible, no complaints whatsoever. I expect it's something of a lottery, some therapists will be better than others but I've had nothing but good experiences so far.

The only drawback is the waiting time, I had my assessment the first time and at the end they explained it would be around an 18 week wait for my actual therapy to begin, this time they said 6-8 weeks but it's been just over 8 now and I've still heard nothing. Hopefully things will move quicker for you but just wanted to prepare you as it can feel a bit deflating after getting an initial appointment so quickly

I have used this - you get an initial response very quickly - presumably so they can ensure you are not urgent. Then its just a matter of waiting for availability - I waited around 5 weeks but once on the programme - things progressed very well.
My daughter recently applied and was given 2/3 month waiting list time and was recently advised by letter that there would be a further delay. Depends on your area regarding timings - but very worthwhile when you do get started.

Yes I’ve used them several times now. I used them pre-Covid and has in person therapy sessions, these were great. Really helped me tbh and I should have stuck with it (therapist left her role and signed me off ans told me to refer myself back on if needs be.. I just didn’t but I should have)

have since had a couple goes online and I can’t get behind it. It doesn’t feel the same as actually going to see someone.

Ahhh I see yes it's an assessment appointment I believe

I tried but there was an 8 month wait by which time I’d either be ok or dead so gave up.

Quick Q now I understand that the 45m booked is for an assessment, how long does each session last ?

I have used it. I had an initial assessment and then had to wait about 6 weeks. Each session lasted 45 mins. If you flexible about times etc, you don't have to wait as long. I also said I was happy to have my sessions over the phone. I was taught lots of practical strategies to use and given homework each week. I found it really helpful.

I was told an hour for my CBT sessions but it was never set in stone. There were times we went as much as half an hour over and other times we were done in 45 mins, it just depended on what I had to discuss that week and when she felt it was a good time to stop for that session. I never felt rushed but she was always respectful of my time, asked if I was ok to carry on if we ran over etc. She was fairly senior though from what I can gather so could maybe set her own timetable a bit more, it was also all by phone (my choice) so might be a bit more rigid if it's face to face appointments.

Good luck , I hope it goes well for you