Referral Criteria
LMWS Talking Therapies provides evidence-based structured treatments for common mental health problems including anxiety disorders and depression.
Prior to making a referral, please ensure that the client meets the following criteria:
- The client is aged 17+ and registered with a Leeds-based GP
- The client is not already under the care of other NHS mental health services or receiving other therapeutic support (such as CMHT)
- The client wishes to be referred for therapy and is motivated to engage in therapy
- The client is able to independently manage their risk and safety concerns (with the support of a safety plan if applicable)
- The client has symptoms of a common mental health problem as listed below:
- Depression
- Anxiety & Stress
- Panic Disorder
- Simple Phobia
- Health Anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (including for events that occurred in childhood) where there is a clear and specific focus for a PTSD intervention.
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (incl. trichotillomania & skin picking)
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder
- Social Phobia
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Individuals seeking help for the above common mental health issues but have what would be considered a stable Severe Mental Illness (SMI), treatment would focus on the common mental health problem and not the SMI:
This might include:
- Previous historical diagnosis of bipolar disorder/previous historical psychotic episode, which has not required intervention from secondary care or changes/increases to medications within the last 12 months AND they have a relapse prevention plan in place, which identifies signs of deterioration (if they have been under CMHT this should be available as part of their discharge plan)

