What is an Associate Psychological Practitioner (APP)?

An 'APP' is a member of the surgery team who works on 'mental health prevention & promotion'.

They support with low-level mental health and wellbeing difficulties.

 What does an APP do?

APPs can offer brief psychological support to patients of all ages registered to the practice.

This includes 4 wellbeing sessions, plus a follow-up that typically takes place 4-6 weeks after the final session.

Each session lasts for 45 minutes and these can be face-to-face, over the phone or through video consultation.

 What can an APP support with?

APPs can work with patients around a range of things that may be impacting their current mental health or wellbeing. This can include low mood, anxiety, worry, stress or sleeping difficulties.

The support may include helping to increase your understanding around anxiety, low mood or worrying, teaching relaxation techniques, advising on different stress management tools or offering sleep advice and tips. The support can also include learning more about the 5 Ways to Wellbeing or exploring ways to live a fuller & lifestyle.

Are APPs counsellors?

APPs are not counsellors, rather they will work collaboratively with you to understand your goals and guide you on how you can use strategies to manage your current mental health and wellbeing.

How can I be referred?

You can be referred to an APP by speaking to your GP, Nurse or another clinician at the practice.

If you would like to find out more, please feel free to send your enquiry using the online consultation. Please select the admin query option and mention that you would like further information about APP mental health support.

What happens after I get referred?

The referral will be looked over to make sure the skills of an APP would be beneficial to support you.

If the referral is accepted, the APP will try to contact you via telephone or SMS to discuss more.

If it is felt you may benefit from alternative support the APP will let the person who referred you know.

Things to note

The Mental Health Prevention & Promotion Service is not a crisis service. If you require urgent or crisis support please contact the following services:

• If you are in an emergency situation and need immediate support, you could contact 999 or attend your local A&E.
• The Initial Response Service - 0800 0130 707 (providing urgent & general mental health support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
• Samaritans - 116 123 (offering a listening service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).