Hill Street Psychology

Building strength and resilience

Back in the Driver’s Seat® programme

The programme consists of six sessions and three individual practical driving sessions with a driving instructor. Participants develop an understanding of their fear of driving and learn to apply coping skills and strategies to assist them to manage their anxiety and take manageable steps to achieve their driving goals. The practical driving sessions provide an opportunity for real-life practice and to apply strategies and skills discussed in the programme sessions. Each individual develops their own return to driving plan by setting a series of goals across a range of driving situations.

People who have participated in the programme have successfully achieved their individualised driving goals and improved their driving confidence. They have also applied these skills to other areas of their lives.

The programme is currently only being conducted in Tasmania. Please email Jacqui to obtain current information about the programme or to express an interest in the programme being conducted interstate.

Back in The Driver’s Seat® book

The Back in the Drivers Seat®  book is practical and provides a manageable framework for you to understand, challenge and manage your fear of driving.

The book provides information about the fear of driving, its prevalence, possible causes and why the fear is maintained. It teaches you tools and strategies to help you to challenge and manage your fear of driving including setting driving goals, relaxation techniques, and ways to change the thoughts that make you feel anxious.

Throughout the book you will read about the thoughts, feelings and achievements of some representative participants in the Back in the Driver’s Seat®  Programme.

The book is suitable for people who have never driven, are returning to driving following an accident or significant life event, or who would like to improve their confidence to drive in certain situations. The book is also a useful resource for health professionals and driving instructors who are supporting people to overcome their fear of driving.