Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWPs) are trained to assess and support people with common mental health problems such as anxiety disorders and depression, to manage their recovery.
PWPs are trained professionals who are skilled in Low Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. They commonly work within NHS Talking Therapies services, although they can work across a number of specialist services. A person will normally receive up to six therapeutic sessions with a practitioner and will focus on skills and techniques to help with the presenting difficulties.
The PWP workforce provides short-term, evidence-based treatments in line with NICE Guidance to help people manage their symptoms. PWPs work with people to equip them with the tools and techniques they need to manage anxiety and depression effectively and work towards their goals. Their aim is to help people make positive changes to improve their wellbeing and quality of life.
PWPs work across multiple modalities to suit your needs:
- Online wellbeing course – these are typically online and you will learn about symptoms of anxiety and depression as well as the evidenced based tools and skills to better manage symptoms. The wellbeing course can be supported by weekly review calls with a practitioner which can be attended online anonymously (some services may differ and offer either face to face or online courses).
- Computerised CBT (Silvercloud) – this involves completing an online programme for anxiety or depression and other common mental health difficulties if appropriate. You will have weekly online reviews from a PWP who will review the content and answer any messages. Computerised CBT can be beneficial if you are limited to time but need support.
- Guided self-help –you will have weekly appointments with a PWP either by telephone, video call or face to face and you will work through evidence-based CBT based interventions to help you manage your symptoms.