Help in filling the gap of mental health provision in Grimsby praised by MP

A team that offers one-to-one therapy for adults, children and families played host to Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn.

She toured the plush and serene rooms of Cudox, a not-for-profit group with the core aim to "get to the deep-rooted issues and resolve suffering - not just coping." Currently, Cudox have 16 therapists, including adult, child and systemic/couples therapists.

After a start up at Centre4 in Grimsby, four years ago, the group moved to Abbey Walk in March and designed their own welcoming space where they offer one-to-one support for people referred to them by GPs, schools and other agencies.

READ MORE: A180 road closures discussed in Parliament as National Highways announce works extended into 2025

READ MORE: College student who rode on pavement to avoid 'dangerous' cycle lane was hit by bus and killed because he was in blindspot

The difference they have made to people's lives is notable by the number of people whom they counsel, with the overall emphasis placed on resolving the underlying and deep rooted trauma that sits beneath mental health struggles. In the four years the group has been running, they have delivered over 6000 sessions.

The warm and friendly atmosphere gives visitors the chance to talk openly about their difficulties and break down barriers to open up about mental health. This is achieved through, not just talking, but tailoring bespoke one-to-one treatment to the needs of each individual. At its core, the group of therapists say they do not subscribe to a symptom criteria or threshold, but instead work with the person first to eliminate barriers.

The offices on Abbey Walk are a haven for many people in the Grimsby area, many using medication to get through the crisis in their life. But the team led by Angie Graham, a renowned psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, see talking therapy as a way forward, rather than medication.

Angie said the Grimsby area, like many urban communities have people locked in intergenerational patterns of behaviour and need help.

"People tend not to look at the patterns in their families. We try to help them understand the patterns and any traumas and through talking about them we can break them down to the emotions which depress them," she said.

She added many sought to find a solution to the emotional turmoil, through drugs which end up as addictions. She added: "If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or are struggling to cope, we're here to listen. You are not alone."

The team is guided by principles of psychotherapy built by Carl Rogers a well-known psychologist who created the Curious Paradox, hence the name Cudox in Grimsby. He said: "The curious paradox is when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." As well as one-to-one therapy, the team also offer courses over a number of weeks, which has inspired clients to become part of singing, groups, Tai Chi classes and holiday breaks.

Cudox also supports children with emotional difficulties at school. This can include craft activities, when members discuss their challenges in life while making crafts, with Mari Makitalo, a creative art therapist.

For young people, Bev Herron said: "Our rooms are not clinical. It is an accepting, safe atmosphere. You are accepted for who you are and for people to feel valued, no matter what background they have."

The team also provide outreach sessions alongside their one-to-one therapy in family homes. The Outside In sessions have fun activity therapy, understanding and exploring thoughts and emotions, building upon self care and self-esteem.

For their care of young people the team received a Children in Need grant and a share of The Prosperity Fund. They have also received funding through National Lottery, Sports England and Lincolnshire Community Foundation, however they are now looking at ways to secure more funding.

Angie said with financial support the team will be able to help more people. "Many come with a suitcase full of labels, whether that is ADHA, autism, borderline personality disorder, depression or anxiety. We ask if they can leave that at the door so I can see them for who they are," she said.

Melanie Onn said: "As a not for profit, supported by funding bids, it is filling the gaps between existing local mental health provision, which is struggling to meet the volume of need, and the private sector, which can often be out of price range for people.

"They have a very friendly and welcoming approach which I am sure would make people feel very comfortable about discussing the difficulties they are facing."

The team can be contacted at cudox.co.uk or calling 01472289838.