Counselling provides a safe space to help people find a way forward, allowing them to find their own solutions to problems or develop better ways to manage issues. Employees can access up to six sessions of counselling annually.
The counsellors
The counsellors are either fully qualified or student counsellors on placement with Derbyshire County Council. The counsellors are members of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They work to the BACP’s Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. All counsellors have regular clinical supervision.
Locations
- Chesterfield - Wheatbridge Surgery
- Matlock - County Hall
Appointment Times
Appointments are offered from 9am with the last appointment at 3.30pm. Appointments last 50 minutes.
How to contact the service
The service is self-referral. For all enquiries, email: employee.counsellor@derbyshire.gov.uk or telephone: 01629 536954 during office hours. Due to high demand, there may be a waiting list at times.
Emergency support
If someone needs quick assistance, they can dial 111 and select option 2 if they live in Derbyshire. Other counties may also have similar services available through 111. If someone is in crisis and needs urgent assistance, they should call 999.
Other support and resources
Other support resources can be found on the Derby and Derbyshire Emotional Health and Wellbeing website.
For staff who would like to access private counselling, qualified therapists can be found on the counselling directory
For legal and financial advice, there are other organisations such as Citizens Advice who can help. Most trade unions also offer support for members.
Information for managers
Due to the confidential nature of counselling, managers cannot refer employees to the service and counsellors cannot discuss individual employees with their managers.