Service information for parents and carers

We believe that the parents are crucial to the good mental health of their children and whilst services can offer support for a period of time, it is the family home that is the consistent factor in shaping a child's wellbeing. To support this we work with schools to provide parent support sessions, training and information.

When working one-to-one with a child or young person we also strive to involve parents/carers to varying degrees, depending on the age of the child.  This is because you are in the best position to support the implementation and reinforcement of the strategies we teach in sessions when at home with your child.  You are also best placed to encourage and support the completion of any home practice tasks set from these sessions.  If it is assessed as more appropriate,  for which it is more commonly with adolescents, we may work directly with your child, involving you with their permission.  With younger children in particular, we may work solely with you in order to achieve the best and most effective outcomes for your child.

From time to time we also consult with parents/carers as we feel it's important to have the voice of service users. If you would like to be involved please email Thought-Full@westsussex.gov.uk.

There are a variety of roles in the MHST employed by Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust (SPFT) and West Sussex County Council:

• Assistant Psychologists
• Educational Psychologists
• Trainee Educational Mental Health practitioners
• Educational Mental health Practitioners
• Childrens Low Intensity Practitioner  
• Mental Health Practitioners
• Senior Mental Health Practitioners
• Advisory teacher  
• Clinical Supervisor  
• Team Leader
• Programme Support Assistant