The Psychological Therapies Service (PTS) provides psychological assessment and therapeutic interventions for difficulties which may present in the context of personality disorders, traumatic experiences, and adverse childhood experiences including past psychological, physical and sexual abuse, where clinical evidence indicates that people with these problems can benefit from psychological therapies.

Our staff include clinical and counselling psychologists, psychological therapists, cognitive behaviour therapists, associate psychologists, assistant psychologists and administration teams.

We offer consultation, individual therapy and group-based workshops which may involve psychoeducation, behavioural programmes and talking therapy.

PTS is an intensive intervention service, which means that support is goal focused and time-limited.  Not everyone with mental health difficulties needs specialised psychological therapy with PTS. For those with mild to moderate symptoms, community options such as counselling, social prescription, fitness programs, or volunteering may be equally effective or more effective – and faster to access. If this is the case, you should check out our Community Services section for options in your area. You can also talk to your GP to work out which service might be best for you.

How psychological therapies can help

Mental health difficulties arise from a combination of difficult life events and experiences, which shape how we think about ourselves, others, the world and future.

One in six adults experience common mental health difficulties (Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey: Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing).

People may wish to seek support from the PTS to help them understand their challenges and emotions, to address unhelpful coping behaviours and work towards goals which will aim to improve their quality of life and wellbeing.