Private mental health GP in Preston
If you've been struggling with your mental wellbeing, speaking to a GP can be an important first step. At My Private Clinic you'll have the time to discuss your concerns in confidence and receive personalised advice about the support available.
GMC 7606534 Confidential Longer appointments No NHS registration needed
Where clinically appropriate, treatment may include lifestyle advice, medication, further investigations, or referral to specialist mental health services.
Reviewed by Dr Faizal Secretary MRCGP · GMC 7606534
Why choose Dr Faizal for mental health support?
Many people delay seeking help because they worry they won't have enough time to explain how they're feeling. Many also find it easier to speak openly in a longer, private consultation where they don't feel rushed. A private mental health GP appointment gives you the time to discuss your concerns properly.
Whether you're experiencing symptoms for the first time or have been struggling for some time, the aim is to help you understand what's happening and decide on the most appropriate next steps together.
Common mental health concerns
Mental health concerns affect everyone differently. Symptoms may include anxiety, low mood, poor sleep, difficulty concentrating, or feeling unable to cope with everyday life.
Dr Faizal Secretary provides assessment and ongoing support for a wide range of common mental health concerns, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression and low mood
- Stress and burnout
- Panic attacks
- Sleep problems
- Work-related stress
- Bereavement and grief
- Emotional wellbeing concerns
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Difficulty coping with life changes
If you're unsure whether your symptoms require medical advice, arranging a consultation can help you better understand what's happening and discuss the support available.
What happens during your mental health GP appointment?
Taking the first step to discuss your mental health can feel daunting, but your appointment is designed to be supportive, confidential, and free from judgement.
Dr Faizal Secretary will discuss your symptoms, how long they've been affecting you, your medical history, previous treatment, and the impact they're having on your daily life. Depending on your circumstances, your consultation may include:
- A detailed discussion about your symptoms and concerns
- Assessment of your mental and physical health
- Review of any current medications
- Lifestyle and wellbeing advice
- Blood tests or further investigations where clinically appropriate
- Discussion of treatment options, including medication if suitable
- Referral to specialist mental health services if appropriate
Every appointment ends with clear advice and a personalised plan, so you'll understand what happens next and the support available to you. NICE guidance on mental health informs the treatment options discussed.
How can Dr Faizal help with your mental health?
Supporting patients with their mental health is an important part of general practice. Dr Faizal Secretary can:
Not everyone needs medication or specialist treatment. Sometimes, understanding what's happening and receiving clear medical advice is enough to help you move forward. If your symptoms suggest a more complex condition, Dr Secretary will explain your options and arrange appropriate specialist care where needed.
- Assess symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and other common mental health concerns
- Diagnose common mental health conditions where clinically appropriate
- Discuss treatment options and prescribe medication if suitable
- Identify whether physical health conditions or medications may be contributing to your symptoms
- Arrange blood tests or other investigations when required
- Provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up appointments
- Refer you to psychologists, psychiatrists, counselling services, or other mental health specialists if further support is needed
Can Dr Faizal refer you to a mental health specialist?
Yes. If further support would benefit your care, Dr Faizal Secretary can refer you to psychiatrists, psychologists, counselling services, or other mental health specialists. Any referral will always be discussed with you beforehand.
The aim is to ensure you receive the right level of support at the right time. Where ongoing GP care remains appropriate, Dr Faizal Secretary can continue to monitor your progress alongside any specialist treatment you receive.
Why choose My Private Clinic?
If you're looking for a mental health GP in Preston, you'll always see Dr Faizal Secretary for every appointment, allowing continuity of care and a better understanding of your health over time.
The Same GP Every Visit
You'll always be seen by Dr Faizal Secretary, providing consistency, familiarity, and personalised care.
Time to Talk
Appointments are designed to give you the opportunity to discuss your concerns properly, ask questions, and leave with a clear understanding of your treatment options.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Every consultation is tailored to your individual needs. Treatment may include lifestyle advice, medication where appropriate, further investigations, or referral to specialist mental health services.
Fast Access to Care
Same-day, evening, and Saturday appointments are available, helping you access support without long waiting times.
Confidential and Supportive
Your consultation takes place in a private, respectful environment where you can speak openly about your concerns, knowing they will be treated with professionalism and confidentiality.
Meet Dr Faizal Secretary
Dr Faizal Secretary graduated from the University of Manchester and has extensive experience working across NHS general practice and acute medicine. He established My Private Clinic to provide longer appointments and continuity of care.
Supporting patients with their mental health is an important part of general practice, and Dr Secretary believes good care begins with listening carefully, understanding each person's circumstances, and providing practical, evidence-based advice. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, low mood, stress, or simply don't feel like yourself, every consultation is approached with empathy, professionalism, and complete confidentiality.
"Good healthcare starts with listening properly."
Dr Faizal Secretary, MBChB MRCGP · Read the full profile →
Appointment fees
We believe it's important that patients know exactly what to expect before booking. There are no registration fees, membership costs, or hidden charges.
Mental health concerns are often best discussed without watching the clock — a longer appointment gives you the time to cover everything properly. If further investigations, prescriptions, or specialist referrals are recommended, these will always be discussed with you beforehand. Any additional costs will be explained clearly, and nothing will be arranged without your agreement. View the full pricing page →
Mental health, answered
Can a GP help with mental health?
Yes. Dr Faizal Secretary can assess your symptoms, discuss treatment options, prescribe medication where appropriate, and arrange specialist referrals if needed.
Can a GP diagnose mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression?
Yes. Many common mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression, can be diagnosed by a GP following a detailed assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and overall wellbeing. Where further specialist input is needed, this can be arranged.
What happens during a mental health GP appointment?
Your appointment is a confidential conversation about how you have been feeling. Dr Faizal Secretary will discuss your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and any factors that may be affecting your mental wellbeing before recommending the most appropriate next steps.
Can a GP prescribe medication for mental health?
Yes. Where clinically appropriate, medication may be recommended as part of your treatment plan. Any potential benefits, risks, and alternatives will always be discussed with you before a prescription is issued.
Can a GP refer me to a psychiatrist or counsellor?
Yes. If specialist support would benefit your care, Dr Faizal Secretary can refer you to the most appropriate mental health professional, including psychiatrists, psychologists, or counselling services.
Can I stay registered with my NHS GP if I book a private mental health appointment?
Yes. Seeing Dr Faizal Secretary privately does not affect your NHS GP registration. Many patients choose private appointments for faster access while continuing to receive NHS care as usual.
How quickly can I book a mental health GP appointment?
Same-day appointments are often available. Evening and Saturday appointments also help patients access care without waiting for routine NHS appointment availability.
Will my consultation be confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed during your consultation is treated in strict confidence, just as it would be during any other medical appointment.
Do I need to leave my NHS GP to see a private GP?
No. You can see Dr Faizal Secretary privately while remaining fully registered with your NHS GP. Using a private GP does not affect your NHS registration.
Should I see a GP if I'm struggling with stress or low mood?
Yes. You do not need to wait until symptoms become severe before seeking help. If stress, anxiety, low mood, or other mental health concerns are affecting your daily life, speaking to a GP can help you understand your symptoms and discuss the support available.
Depending on your symptoms, Dr Faizal Secretary may recommend additional services to support your care.
Book a private mental health GP appointment in Preston
Whether you're experiencing anxiety, low mood, stress, burnout, or simply don't feel like yourself, speaking to a GP can help you understand your symptoms and the support available. Dr Faizal Secretary offers confidential consultations with longer appointments, personalised advice, and continuity of care.
Whether your symptoms are recent or ongoing, Dr Faizal Secretary is here to help. Book your appointment today to discuss your concerns in confidence.