Empowering young minds, one family at a time
City & Hackney Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) is a partnership of specialist NHS services and voluntary organisations, dedicated to supporting children, young people, and their families. We are committed to promoting emotional wellbeing, fostering positive relationships, and addressing behavioural and mental health challenges. Our services extend to children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, such as autism.
At City & Hackney CAMHS, we recognise the importance of a strong family unit in supporting a child's mental health. We work closely with families to identify and build on their strengths, offering workshops, drop-ins, and various other support services for all local parents and carers, regardless of whether their child is using our services.
Our Services
At City & Hackney CAMHS, we understand that discussing problems and worries can sometimes be difficult. Our services involve listening, talking, and thinking together about what is going on and what might help. We offer friendly and non-judgmental support through our team of professionals who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and young people.
Our services include:
- First Steps Specialist CAMHS: This service offers a comprehensive assessment and therapeutic intervention for children and young people experiencing mild to moderate emotional and mental health difficulties.
- CAMHS Disability: Our disability service provides targeted support for children and young people with learning disabilities, autism, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Off-Centre: Off-Centre is a community-based service for young people aged 10-18 who are struggling with self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health difficulties.
- Family Action: Family Action offers a range of support services, including family therapy, parenting support, and early years' services.
- Young Hackney Children and Families Clinical Service: This service provides targeted support to young people and families in the borough of Hackney who are experiencing mental health difficulties.
- Growing Minds Service: The Growing Minds Service offers mental health support to children and young people in primary schools.
- Wellbeing & Mental Health in Schools: This service provides mental health support and training to school staff, students, and parents.
Project Indigo LGBTQI+ Group
Project Indigo is a youth group for LGBTQI+ young people aged 16-25 who identify as LGBTQI+ or are questioning their sexuality or gender identity. The group provides a safe, supportive space for members to meet other LGBTQI+ young people, engage in activities, and receive support from trained mental health professionals.
How We Help
Our approach is child and young person-centred, focusing on their strengths and the strengths of their families. We recognise that each child and young person is unique, and we tailor our support to meet their specific needs and goals.
For young children:
- We spend time getting to know the child and family, using games and creative activities to help them express themselves and explore what's on their mind.
- We work collaboratively with parents and carers to support their child's emotional wellbeing and development.
For young people:
- We offer support with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationships, bullying, and school and exam stress.
- We work together to develop coping strategies and build resilience.
For parents and carers:
- We offer support for parents and carers, either individually or in groups, to help them understand their child's emotional needs and support their development.
- We offer workshops, drop-ins, and other support for all local parents and carers, regardless of whether their child is using our services.
At City & Hackney CAMHS, we are committed to providing high-quality mental health support and resources to children, young people, and their families. Our aim is to create a supportive, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment where everyone can thrive.
Overall Experience
Hackney Ark has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with most reviewers praising the friendly and welcoming staff, clean and comfortable facilities, and the professionalism of the specialists.
Staff and Therapists
The staff and therapists at Hackney Ark have been consistently commended for their warm, friendly, and welcoming nature. Many reviewers have mentioned that the staff seem to genuinely enjoy their jobs, which makes a significant difference to the overall experience. The therapists, including psychotherapists, dieticians, paediatricians, and CAMHS team members, have been praised for their thoroughness, efficiency, and understanding approach.
Facilities and Waiting Area
The facilities at Hackney Ark have been described as modern, clean, and well-maintained. The waiting area has been particularly praised for being child-friendly, with toys and play areas to keep children entertained while they wait.
Special Mentions
Some reviewers have specifically mentioned the exceptional service they received from certain specialists, such as the hearing test team, who were able to make their children feel at ease.
Minor Criticisms
A few reviewers have mentioned minor issues, such as the front desk being slightly cold and unfriendly, and the waiting room needing a clean. However, these criticisms are greatly overshadowed by the numerous positive comments.
