Scotland’s largest independent online counselling service launched as demand for mental health services grows

Scotland’s largest independent online counselling and therapy service has been launched as demand for mental health services increases amid the coronavirus pandemic.

First Psychology Online, run by First Psychology Scotland (FPS), comprises a full range of psychological services run by nearly 50 practitioners from across the country who are specifically trained to deliver them.

Services including online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling and psychotherapy, and one-to-one therapy sessions.

The initiative is set to become a key mental health service for Scotland as the nationwide lockdown continues. Many people are struggling with the social distancing measures put in place, like not seeing their families and not being able to leave their homes except for essential reasons.

First Psychology Clinical Director, Professor Ewan Gillon, said: “We initially developed our online services with people’s busy lives in mind. Sometimes, heading across town or traveling miles for a face-to-face appointment is impossible, or at least inconvenient.

“None of us could have foreseen how much our lives would change due to the corona virus or how quickly these changes would happen. As all of us are asked to avoid any unnecessary social contact, looking after your mental health is more important than ever and being able to access these services online is becoming crucial.

“Depression, anxiety, stress and OCD were already steadily on the increase. Covid-19 is accelerating these issues for a lot of people at an alarming rate.

“Humans are hardwired to interact with each other, and self-isolating can be especially hard for those living alone as it limits their contact with others even further. Equally, for many, the process of being confined and the stress of the current situation may be taking its toll on peoples’ relationships, as well as their children’s wellbeing.

“Online counselling or therapies such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), psychotherapy or counselling can make an important difference to many and allow them to manage the day-to-day.”

First Psychology Online will focus on offering consultations for parents and carers on how to support young people in distress, as well as offering therapy to children aged 12 onwards.

Information on the impacts of coronavirus on mental health is not yet available, but a UK-wide study led by the University of Glasgow is currently underway.

Professor Ewan Gillon continued: “Whilst the cause of this crisis may be unprecedented, from a psychologist’s perspective there are a number of issues that may trigger mental health problems, including the disruption of daily routines, a lack of purpose and structure and a huge amount of uncertainty about the future.

“We believe that First Psychology Online can play an important role in helping people in these difficult times. We have also outlined our services to specific groups, including services for those with relationship issues, men who may be suffering specific issues such as managing anger, parent/carers needing support and more .”