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An article in two parts which considers: the level of counselling activity within specific UK organizations: and the functioning of an EAP in one company. Aims, overall, to offer some qualitative evidence of counselling services effectiveness. Part 1 used a questionnaire and postal survey to ascertain those organizations providing EAP or counselling services. Considers who performs the counselling service, access to the service, the scope of problems dealt with, and how closely the service matches the essential characteristics of an EAP. Found only one organization that fulfilled all the criteria. Part 2 used structured interviews with employees in one organization. Charts employees′ views on awareness of the EAP, the quality of service being offered, benefits and disadvantages, and involvement of EAP staff in organizational change. Results indicate some lack of awareness of the full role of EAPs; and some stigma associated with using the service. On the whole the EAP is well‐received. Advises against EAP staff becoming involved in organizational change in case the core function of the service is diluted.

Effective interprofessional working is widely claimed to enhance service delivery, user satisfaction, and most importantly, clinical outcomes. Achieving this position is proving difficult. Research suggests that strategies to enhance interprofessional collaboration should begin at the earliest possible opportunity to prevent negative stereotypes from developing. This project was an attempt to develop effective interprofessional education (IPE) across staff groups who work in the mental health arena (mental health nursing students and clinical psychology trainees).

Participants were whole cohorts of undergraduate mental health nursing students (n=11) in their second year of training (at the commencement of their “branch” programme), and trainees on the doctorate in clinical psychology (n=10) at the start of their first year of training. IPE sessions were facilitated by mental health nursing and clinical psychology academic staff and clinicians. Activities included creative group work and problem‐based learning. Seven sessions were delivered across over a 2 year period.

Qualitative and quantitative data from this two year project showed an increase in positive attitudes towards professionals from each profession over a two year period, though no overall improvement. Qualitative analysis of participant comments provided more encouraging support for improvement in attitudes, within the theme areas of teamwork and collaboration, professional identity, and roles and responsibilities. Overall, the project provided important information on building positive attitudes within the mental health workforce, while identifying challenges that need to be anticipated and addressed.

Few studies have explored IPE in mental health contexts, especially in the pre‐qualification arena.