Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We are sure you have plenty of questions…
From who we are, to what happens after a referral, we hope to have answered as many of your burning questions as possible.
Still got questions for us? Contact us at: roots@groundwork.org.uk
Who are The Roots?
The Roots is a free mental health and wellbeing service for young people in Waltham Forest. We’re here to help you make sense of your feelings, work through challenges and find ways to look after your mental health.
What kind of support do The Roots offer?
We offer different types of support, including one-to-one therapy, Family Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). You can find out more about each type of support on our website. We’ll work with you to figure out what might work best for you.
How do I know if talking to someone might help?
It’s great that you’re paying attention to your wellbeing. Experiencing ups and downs is a normal part of life but sometimes we experience changes to how we think, feel and behave that make daily life more difficult or less enjoyable. For example, we might feel more worried than usual or find it difficult to do things we used to do. This is when it’s helpful to talk to a trusted adult or mental health professional. They can help you to figure out what’s going on, what you can do and what support might make things better.
What happens after I’m referred?
We’ll look at the information you shared with us to see if we are able to help. If we can offer you support, we’ll contact you or your parent/carer to explain the next steps. If we are not the right service for you, we will explain why and let you know about any other services that might be helpful.
How long will I have to wait?
Waiting times can vary depending on the type of support you need and how many people are waiting. We know waiting can be difficult, and we’ll contact you when an appointment becomes available. We will also let you know about other services and resources that may be helpful while you wait.
What happens in therapy sessions?
Therapy is a safe space for you to talk about what’s on your mind without worrying about being judged. By talking about your experiences and thoughts with a therapist, it might help you understand your feelings better, set goals for the future and find ways to cope with difficult situations.
Will my sessions be confidential?
What you say in therapy sessions is confidential and we do not report what you have said to your parents, carers or teachers. However, if we’re worried that you or someone else might be at risk of getting hurt, we may need to share information with other people who can help keep you safe. Your therapist will explain this in more detail before you start sessions.
Where and when do sessions take place?
Sessions take place either in Waltham Forest Family Hubs or online, depending on what you prefer. Sessions usually take place on the same day and at the same time every week. Your therapist will discuss the options during your first appointment to find a time and place that works for you.