– Community-based day centres – Highly specialised outpatient teams – In-patient units – Eating disorder units – Secure forensic adolescent units (110) In addition, Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) teams are available for people from the age of 14 who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis. EIP is a specialised service that can accept direct referrals, and will meet individuals and their families in places they feel comfortable rather than a mental health base. They will also support family members (111). Mental health professionals If the young person would like to better understand different types of treatments, offer to talk them through the roles of the following professionals: What does a psychologist do? Psychologists (also known as clinical psychologists) and counsellors can help by providing: – A safe space to talk about problems – Opportunities to be listened to in an emotionally supportive and non-judgemental way – Specific methods for overcoming poor mental health and preventing its recurrence A good counsellor will be registered with an organisation, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), which has a framework for safe practice. This means they will have to access regular supervision and work to a code of conduct. Psychologists and counsellors are not medically qualified so cannot prescribe medication.
Page 127
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker