NHS Grampian offer the option of accessing Typed Therapy. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is provided by the service IESO through an online chat function.
- IESO is funded by the Scottish Government, so is free to use
- Your treatment will be delivered by an accredited therapist
- There are short waiting times – IESO can typically offer therapy within 3 weeks
- IESO offers sessions outside of working hours – appointments are available between 6am – 11pm, 7 days per week.
- You can access sessions digitally at a place and time that suits you
Watch the video below to learn more about what to expect from therapy with IESO:
IESO
How do I refer to IESO?
In order to be referred to IESO’s typed CBT service, you will need to self-refer to GO Health Services Wellbeing Hub.
When you express an interest in IESO, a wellbeing hub clinician will assess if you are suitable for this service. A referral will then be made for you to IESO through the Digital Therapies team. IESO will keep the Digital Therapies team and your GP up to date about the treatment that you are receiving.
Find out more about IESO on our Frequently Asked Questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions (IESO)
How does IESO work?
IESO delivers free online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to those with common mental health conditions like anxiety and depression through a one to one typed conversation with an accredited therapist.
Who can use IESO?
- This service is available to NHS patients aged 16+ across Scotland.
- IESO is suitable for people experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of common mental health problems.
- If you are experiencing any thoughts of harming yourself, you will likely be referred to an NHS service rather than IESO.
What can I expect from IESO?
- IESO has a short waiting list and is quick to access if your referral is accepted.
- Therapy sessions vary in length (either 45 or 60 minutes depending on your symptoms)
- Therapy takes place in a secure online chat room similar to Whatsapp.
- You can join your session on any internet enabled device from wherever you feel most comfortable and at a time to fit around your schedule, including evenings (as late as 11pm) and weekends.
- The number of sessions that IESO typically offers is dependent on your needs.
What mental health problems are treated by IESO?
You can receive therapy provided by IESO if you are experiencing:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
- PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) – single episode only
- Social Anxiety
- Health Anxiety
- Phobias
- Sleep Problems
- Stress