Introducing Peer Support alongside MindSpot GP's treatment courses.
At MindSpot GP, we’re dedicated to providing free, high quality digital psychological services for Western Australians so they can access the help they need - when and where they need it. We’re committed to increasing access to high-quality mental health care for everyone. That’s why we have introduced a collaboration with Independent Community Living Australia’s (ICLA) eFriend service. The goal of this collaboration is to explore how a clinical service (MindSpot GP) can work in parallel to a peer-support service (eFriend) and the impacts on consumers’ engagement and outcomes.
What is peer support and who are eFriend?
Peer support connects you with individuals who have lived experience with mental health challenges. eFriend is a provider of peer support and offers free non-clinical support sessions via video or phone call to people feeling low, lonely, or isolated. During these sessions eFriend Peer Workers utilise their own lived experience of struggling with mental health and navigating the recovery journey, as well as training in Trauma Informed Care, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills and Intentional Peer Support.
Why integrate peer support with online treatment courses?
The collaboration between MindSpot GP and eFriend is an initiative supported by WAPHA after recognising the potential benefits of integrating clinical expertise and lived experience services. Some of these benefits may include:
Sharing your goals and experiences with someone who understands can increase confidence, motivation and commitment to the treatment courses.
Connecting with peers with lived experience can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and embarrassment associated with mental health challenges and seeking out support.
Peer workers can offer valuable guidance and encouragement based on their own experiences, providing a practical perspective on managing your mental health and navigating recovery.
How does eFriend’s peer support work with MindSpot GP’s Treatment courses?
Our courses seamlessly integrate peer support into your treatment journey. Once you have completed your free online assessment, you will discuss your results and treatment options with a MindSpot GP therapist. During your discussion you may choose to enrol into an eight-week treatment course with MindSpot GP and your therapist may recommend an eFriend Peer Worker to support you during your treatment. Your therapist will then help to connect with trained and supportive eFriend peer workers.
Ready to take the next step?
Speak to your GP for a referral to MindSpot GP.
To learn more about eFriend, please visit the eFriend website on https://icla.org.au/efriend
