Our service is dedicated to supporting children and young people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough who are grappling with a spectrum of mental health challenges, ranging from moderate to severe. This includes difficulties like anxiety, low mood, depression, self-harm, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, and the lingering effects of trauma.
We operate as a friendly, collaborative, and multidisciplinary team, providing comprehensive assessments for young individuals whose emotional wellbeing or behaviour has become particularly challenging to manage. Our aim is always to approach these sensitive situations with an open mind, working hand-in-hand with children, young people, and their families.
Once we've understood the specific needs, we offer a diverse array of therapeutic interventions. These aren't just about managing symptoms; they're about working together to explore problems and develop new ways of thinking and coping. Our tailored support can take various forms:
For those experiencing more severe and persistent mental health problems or disorders, we offer thorough assessments followed by carefully planned, individualised treatment programmes. We also provide assessment, treatment, and ongoing support for children and young people with mild to moderate learning disabilities or complex healthcare needs, extending this support to their families too.
We believe in the power of shared understanding, which is why we frequently arrange family appointments to collaboratively find solutions. For young people specifically, we offer individual therapy designed to help them better understand their feelings and discover effective coping mechanisms. In certain cases, a child and adolescent psychiatrist may also prescribe medication as part of the overall treatment plan. Beyond direct intervention, we also provide mental health assessment and support and work closely with other professionals, offering guidance on how best to assist individual children and young people.
It's important to note that all referrals for our Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are routed through YOUnited. This central service acts as the initial point of contact for emotional wellbeing and mental health support for children and young people aged 5 to 17 who are registered with a GP in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
If you are a professional and have concerns about a child or young person's emotional wellbeing, but would like some advice before making a formal referral, or indeed instead of one, you can reach out to our Emotional Health and Wellbeing Practitioners via email at ccs.ehw@nhs.net. We are here to help guide you and ensure young people receive the most appropriate support.
