Step 2 (CAMHS HCT)

Step2 is a pivotal mental health service dedicated to supporting children and young people aged 0-19 right here in Hertfordshire. We understand that navigating the complexities of growing up can sometimes lead to mild to moderate mental health difficulties, which can cause significant distress and impact daily life. That's precisely where Step2 comes in. Our focus is on providing brief, yet impactful, goal-focused interventions designed to help young people overcome these challenges and thrive. We believe in empowering them with the tools and strategies they need to manage their mental well-being effectively.

The support offered by Step2 is always tailored to the individual. Our interventions are structured to deliver tangible results within a defined timeframe, working closely with young people and their families to identify specific concerns and set achievable targets for improvement. Whether it's one-to-one support or participation in a group setting, the precise nature of the intervention is carefully considered, ensuring the most beneficial and impactful support for each young person who engages with Step2. We pride ourselves on this personalised approach.

It's important to understand the pathway to Step2. Our service is designed to offer a subsequent layer of support, meaning that before a referral to Step2, young people should have already engaged with initial mental health assistance. This foundational support can take various forms, such as guidance from a health visitor or school nurse, participation in counselling sessions, or involvement in group work activities. This prerequisite ensures that individuals have explored more general support avenues first, allowing Step2 to provide more specialised and targeted interventions when they are most needed.

In a significant stride towards greater accessibility, Step2 has recently streamlined its referral process. We are delighted to confirm that children, young people, and their families are now able to self-refer directly into the service. This empowers individuals to take a proactive step in seeking the help they need, removing potential barriers and making the journey to Step2 much more straightforward.

To initiate support for a child or young person experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties, or if parents and carers require guidance for their child, the initial point of contact should be the Single Point of Access (SPA). You can reach the SPA advisor by calling 0800 644 4101. The SPA team plays a crucial role in the referral pathway to Step2. They are expertly equipped to discuss your specific concerns in detail, gather all necessary information, and then accurately direct you to the most appropriate service. This may lead to a direct referral to Step2, or if your needs align better with another provider, the SPA will ensure you are seamlessly signposted to the relevant support pathway.