information for parents

How I Work with Your Child

In the therapy room, my role is to listen, empathise, and support your child through their difficulties. It’s essential for them to feel heard, cared for, and understood. I create a nurturing, non-judgemental environment where trust can grow, allowing them to lower their defences and express themselves openly.

Rather than offering direct advice, I help young people connect with their feelings and develop the confidence to make their own choices and identify next steps to overcome challenges within safe and ethical boundaries. My goal is to empower them to find a positive way forward and reach their full potential.

Supporting Your Child Through Counselling

As a parent, it can be difficult to see your child struggling. You may wish they felt more able to talk to you, but there may be times they don’t see this as an option. It’s not always easy for a child or young person to be open about their feelings, especially to family or friends who may be too close to the situation to offer objective support. They might also fear that expressing their emotions could impact their relationships or that their feelings won’t be fully understood.

Counselling provides a confidential and safe space where your children can express their thoughts and emotions freely.

the therapeutic process

The counselling and coaching journey is one of self-discovery, unique to each child. It provides a space where their story is truly heard, helping them better understand themselves and their emotions.

setting goals

At the beginning of therapy, I work with your child to establish therapeutic aims, which gives focus to their sessions. It’s important to recognise that a young person’s goals may differ from those their parents might set. I respect their wishes and help them to understand the choices available to them. Through this collaborative approach, I encourage responsibility, help build confidence, and support them in making positive changes.

Helping Your Child Express Themselves

At first, it may be difficult for a child or young person to put their feelings into words. To facilitate this process, I use various therapeutic strategies tailored to their needs rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.I incorporate a range of approaches, particularly for younger children, to help them express their emotions in a way that feels comfortable.

These may include:

Creative therapies – psychoeducation, artwork, storytelling and role play.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques – breathing exercises, guided meditation, and muscle relaxation.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – identifying thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours, and exploring alternatives. This is often more suited to older children or those who prefer discussion-based therapy.
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) – a set of tools and techniques that help children understand and improve how they think, feel, and communicate. It can be especially helpful for building confidence, managing emotions, and improving learning skills.

equipping young people with lifelong skills

Beyond the therapy room, I aim to provide young people with practical strategies they can use in everyday life. These may include:

✅ Breathing exercises for anxiety and stress management

✅ Guided meditation and muscle relaxation techniques

✅ Assertiveness training and problem-solving skills

✅ CBT and NLP based tools to help them change unhelpful thought patterns

By integrating these techniques into their daily routines, young people can develop a greater sense of independence and empowerment.