Young Somerset’s Mental Health Support Team (Schools)
The Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) in Somerset are a partnership between Young Somerset and Somerset CAMHS, working within educational settings to support children and young people aged 5-16 with their mental health and well-being.
Our Approach
The primary goal of the MHST is to ensure that young people and their families receive timely, early intervention when they need it. Through Low Intensity-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (LI-CBT) and resilience-building strategies, we equip young people with practical tools to manage their mental health, helping them stay engaged in education.
We support those experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties, such as:
- Increased withdrawal or low mood
- Frequent reassurance-seeking
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Excessive worrying
- Repetitive behaviours that negatively impact daily life
Our approach is collaborative, encouraging young people to take an active role in their therapy by applying strategies at home and in school.
Our Team
- Education Mental Health Practitioners (EMHPs) – Provide 1:1 and group LI-CBT interventions, support parents, and help schools develop whole-school mental well-being approaches.
- Senior Mental Health Practitioners (SMHPs) – Provide clinical supervision and manage more complex cases.
- Whole School Approach Practitioners (WSAPs) – Promote well-being through non-clinical interventions, assemblies, and parent groups such as Tuning into Teens and Tuning into Kids.
- Mental Health Leads (MHLs) – Coordinate referrals and support within schools.
Accessing Support
While MHSTs are not a crisis service, families can access support through referrals from school staff. There is a waiting list for services, but urgent concerns should be directed to Mindline (01823 276 892), NHS 111, or emergency services (999).
For more information, contact [email protected].