Counselling for Children

Just like adults, children and young people experience problems that are distressing and have an impact on their emotional well-being and day to day life.

However, the difficulty children and young people often have is that they find it hard to open up or don’t know who to turn to. It can also be difficult for parents to know the best way to support their child.

But if the problems – which may occur for many reasons - are not addressed and dealt with, they will not generally “go away”. They can not only get in the way of an enjoyable childhood but also cause more difficulties later in life.

My role as a counsellor is to enable children and young people to express themselves and explore what is happening in their life in a confidential, safe space where they are accepted for who they are. 

My counselling approach is very adaptive and I take into consideration the cognitive ability and developmental stage of the child or young person. I encourage them to draw on their strengths to gain insight into what is happening and start to make positive changes. And this is done through using different skills and creative techniques that are appropriate to the child and their situation.

My area of expertise is behavioural problems, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anger, though I also have experience in working with children with phobias and self confidence issues. However, I am happy to see any child over the age of 8 with any type of emotional, social or behavioural issue.

About the sessions

I generally work closely with the child and their parent(s)/carer and the first session is a chance for us all to sit down and look at what you hope to achieve through counselling – this is to ensure that I feel I am in a position to help and that you feel comfortable with me. If I feel that I am not best placed to help, for example, if the child’s problems are because of medical reasons or learning difficulties, I will refer on to a more appropriately qualified person.

During the initial session, I will aim to get a full picture of the child’s background including fears/worries, school life, home life, required changes etc. Subsequent sessions then focus on moving towards what is wanted but also to help the child or young person learn to communicate effectively, to assist in developing assertiveness and encourage a sense of belonging

Parents are very welcome at subsequent sessions if it is felt to be appropriate or beneficial.