Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) is an initiative that aims to make psychological therapies (talking therapies) more accessible to people, especially those with anxiety and depression. There are a number of IAPT services covering the whole North East region. These services offer more opportunities for those who will benefit from talking therapies and further enabling these to be used as a first line of treatment.
IAPT Services
The IAPT services are particularly focused on providing help for people experiencing anxiety and depression. IAPT services can provide treatment for those with mild to moderate symptoms [mild and moderate are clinical terms and not how someone would describe their own symptoms]. Check your local service information to find out the range of conditions they offer support for.
The Therapies
The therapies provided are evidence based, that is recommended by clinical research. The NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) guidelines for anxiety and depression recommend several therapies including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), behavioural couples therapy and interpersonal therapy (IPT). Our IAPT services offer mainly CBT therapy- both guided self help (low intensity interventions) and psychological therapy (high intensity interventions), though other therapies are offered.
Community Settings
Wherever possible, IAPT services are provided in community settings, including such places as GP surgeries, community centres, etc. making it easier to access help.