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Children and Teens

​Every child and young person is unique, which is why I work in an integrative and holistic way, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches to meet each individual's needs. My work is grounded in the person-centred approach, providing a safe, accepting, and supportive environment where children and young people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences at their own pace.

Alongside emotional wellbeing, I consider wider factors that may impact a child's development and mental health, including neurodiversity, emotional regulation, family relationships, education, and social experiences. My aim is to support each young person in a way that respects their individuality, strengths, and developmental stage.

Whether you are seeking counselling for a child experiencing anxiety, emotional difficulties, low confidence, behavioural challenges, or life changes, I tailor sessions to meet their unique needs and circumstances.

 
 
Children's Counselling (Ages 11 and Under)

I offer child-centred counselling for younger children, helping them understand and express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in ways that feel natural and accessible. Sessions are adapted to each child's age, developmental level, interests, and preferred ways of communicating.

For many children, this may involve a combination of creative activities, play-based techniques, storytelling, drawing, and age-appropriate conversation. These approaches can help children communicate feelings that may be difficult to express through words alone.

At the heart of my work is building a trusting therapeutic relationship. When children feel safe, accepted, and understood, they are often better able to develop emotional awareness, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen their self-esteem and confidence.

Counselling can provide an alternative or complementary approach to Play Therapy. While Play Therapy uses play as the primary form of communication, my integrative approach allows sessions to incorporate play alongside other therapeutic techniques, creating a flexible and personalised experience tailored to each child's individual needs.

 

Before beginning ongoing work, I offer a series of assessment sessions to understand your child's needs, level of engagement, and preferred communication style. If it becomes clear that specialist Play Therapy would be more beneficial, I can provide a referral to a qualified Play Therapist.

Teen Counselling (Ages 12–17)

Adolescence can be a challenging period of change, growth, and self-discovery. I provide counselling for teenagers in Bewdley and the surrounding Worcestershire area, offering a supportive and non-judgemental space where young people can talk openly about the issues affecting them.

I support teenagers with a wide range of emotional, social, and psychological challenges, including:

  • Anxiety and excessive worry

  • Low mood and depression

  • Exam stress and academic pressure

  • Friendship and relationship difficulties

  • Low self-esteem and confidence

  • Grief, loss, and bereavement

  • Trauma and difficult life experiences

  • School attendance and engagement difficulties

  • Emotional regulation challenges

  • Identity and self-understanding

  • Neurodiversity, including ADHD and autism

I work in a neurodiversity-affirming way and can support young people whether they have a formal diagnosis or are exploring their experiences and identity. Where appropriate, I can also work collaboratively with parents, carers, schools, and colleges to help create a consistent support network around the young person.

Sessions are tailored to each teenager's needs and preferences. Alongside talking therapy, I may incorporate creative approaches such as art, writing, reflective exercises, and other expressive activities. This flexibility allows young people to engage in a way that feels comfortable, meaningful, and effective for them.

 

My focus is on building a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship where teenagers feel genuinely heard, understood, and valued. Through counselling, young people can develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, confidence, and coping strategies, helping them navigate challenges and move forward with a stronger sense of self.

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