How can I get my child seen faster by CAMHS?

So many people are having difficulties getting their child seen by CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). There are a few things you can try to try to get an appointment more quickly:

1. Contact your GP: Your GP is often the first point of contact for mental health services, and they may be able to refer your child to CAMHS or provide other support.
2. Ask about emergency or urgent appointments: Some CAMHS services offer emergency or urgent appointments for children in crisis. Ask your GP or the CAMHS service if this is an option.
3. Consider private treatment: If you are unable to get an appointment with CAMHS quickly and your child is in need of immediate support, you may want to consider seeking private treatment. Although you’ll need to pay the therapist, it may be an option if your child is in crisis and you are unable to get the help you need through the NHS.
4. Contact a support hotline: There are many support hotlines and helplines available that can provide emotional support and advice for children and their families. These include the Samaritans, ChildLine, and the NSPCC.

Why is it taking so long to get an appointment with CAMHS?

There are a number of reasons why it can be difficult to get an appointment with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Some common reasons include:

1. High demand: CAMHS services are in high demand, and there may not be enough resources or staff to meet the needs of all the children and adolescents who require help.
2. Limited availability: In some areas, there may be a limited number of CAMHS appointments available, which can make it difficult to get an appointment quickly.
3. Referral process: In order to access CAMHS, children and adolescents may need to be referred by a GP or other healthcare professional. This referral process can take time, especially if there is a backlog of referrals.
4. Funding: CAMHS services are funded by the government, and there may not be enough funding available to meet the demand for services. This can lead to delays in getting an appointment.

How do I choose a counsellor for my child?

Choosing a private counsellor for your child is an important decision, and it’s important to take the time to find a therapist who is right for your child. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a private counsellor for your child:

1. Qualifications and experience: Look for a therapist who has relevant qualifications and experience working with children and adolescents.
2. Specialties: Consider whether you want a therapist who specialises in a particular area, such as anxiety or depression.
3. Location: It may be helpful to find a therapist who is located conveniently to your home or your child’s school.
4. Cost: Private therapy can be expensive, so it’s important to consider the cost when choosing a therapist. Be sure to ask about the fees upfront and whether the therapist offers any discounts or flexible payment options.
5. Referrals: Ask for recommendations from your GP or other healthcare professionals, or consider getting referrals from friends or family members who have had a positive experience with a particular therapist.

It’s also a good idea to meet with a few different therapists before making a decision. This will give you the opportunity to get a sense of the therapist’s style and approach, and to see if you and your child feel comfortable with them.

How much does counselling cost with a child therapist?

The cost of private child counselling can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the location, the experience and qualifications of the therapist, and the type of therapy being offered. On average, you can expect to pay between £40 and £80 per session for private child counselling, although some therapists may charge more or less than this.

It’s important to bear in mind that private therapy can be expensive, and it may not be covered by health insurance. If you are considering seeking private treatment for your child, it’s a good idea to ask about the costs upfront as most therapists will need to see your child at least 6 times to make any changes.

I hope this helps a little. The most important thing is getting your child seen when they need it and getting the right support for them.