GP Surgeries

GPs help provide access to most mental health services regardless of how mild or severe the problems are. Therefore, when help is needed, the first step is to contact your GP surgery to see either a doctor or a member of the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) team based there. Here, the person you see will discuss how you are feeling and why you need help, and will work through the options available to you.

Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT)

IAPT provide psychological treatments, sometimes called talking treatments, to help people who are stressed, experiencing low mood, or are feeling anxious or depressed.

There are three types of workers:

• Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
• Counsellor

IAPT offer services in different ways to suit different people - for example, online treatments, stress control evening classes, workshops, telephone support, as well as more standard face-to-face help.

The service is available through all GP surgeries in Sheffield and also at Carver Street in the city centre (0114 2264380).

Options may include short-term counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a self-help programme or medication. They may also give you information about your condition so you have a better understanding about why you are feeling as you are. Sometimes, people with mental health difficulties need help with other aspects of their lives, such as benefits or help around employment or isolation.  The IAPT worker may suggest other services that you can approach for help with specific issues - for example eating disorders, domestic abuse or substance misuse.

There is also an employment advice worker available through SOHAS (Sheffield Occupational Health Advisory Service).

Not registered with a GP?

If you are not registered with a GP practice or need help out of working hours, you can be seen at the NHS Walk in Centre:

Rockingham House
Broad Lane
Sheffield, S1 3PB

Tel: 0114 241 2700

The opening hours are 8am until 10pm, 365 days a year.  Here, any Sheffield resident can see a GP or nurse without an appointment and also register as a patient.  

Everyone living in Britain on a permanent basis can register with a GP. To do this, visit your local GP surgery and ask to register with them. To find your nearest GP practice, click here.