Mindset
Our new Mindset courses are specially designed for people who have recently received a diagnosis of dementia. Registered therapists run the sessions, providing participants with psychological and emotional support, information and time to talk.
Being diagnosed with dementia can be a difficult thing to come to terms with. Talking about what is happening to you is a good way to move past your initial diagnosis and talk about what the future may hold.
Our Mindset courses are run by skilled therapists who are experienced in working with people living with dementia. Taking part in a course gives you the opportunity to meet and talk to others who are going through the same experiences as you.
Mindset is supported by the NHS and is based on ‘Living Well with Dementia’ (LivDem), developed by Professor Richard Cheston and Consultant Clinical Psychologist Ann Marshall.
What are the benefits?
Participants have told us the course has helped them in the following ways:
- Coming to terms with their diagnosis
- Having time to express themselves and talk about their experiences
- Developing their understanding of dementia
- Providing new ideas about how to manage symptoms
- Encouraging them to keep doing the things they enjoy, and maybe even giving them the confidence to try something new
- Realising they are not alone
What's involved?
We meet once a week for ten weeks. The first and last week is for the person with a diagnosis dementia and a friend or family member to come along together. The other 8 weeks are just for the person with dementia.
Each meeting lasts 90 minutes and we recommend turning up 10 minutes before the start – we’ll have the kettle on.
The sessions are led by one of our HCPC-registered therapists and supported by another member of the Mindsong team. The therapist will guide the discussions each week and everybody in the group will be invited to contribute. There is no pressure to talk unless you feel comfortable to do so.
There will be between 4 and 10 people in the group. It’s important to try and come to every session.
When and where?
We run in-person courses in different locations across Gloucestershire and we are currently accepting referrals across the county.
We run courses based on demand, so will provide the service where we have a group of 4 or more referrals.
How do I join?
If you are interested in attending a Mindset course and you live in Gloucestershire, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with Maggie Grady: maggie.grady@mindsong.org.uk / 07889 286684
I didn’t know I needed the course, but I did. I feel more confident now, as though I can do anything. I focus on the things I can do now.