How Can I help?
Areas of Expertise
My passion is to listen to and support children and young people in a safe, nurturing space. I have experience with adults too, so can support clients of any age.
I can support a range of issues, these may include:
Anxiety
Depression
Neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, DLD)
Self harm
Eating difficulties
School attendance issues/ school phobia
Bullying
Friendship difficulties
Bereavement
Separation
Family breakdown or changes
Anger
Understanding disability and long term illness in self or the family
Sleep problems
How does counselling work?
An initial assessment will help us to see if we feel we can work together and if I don’t have the skills or experience to meet your needs I will signpost you in the right direction.
With young people I often work in a creative way to help them feel listened to and supported and able to express themselves in ways other than just words. Depending on their age, needs and wishes this may include sand tray, arts and crafts, puppets and role play, lego and games.
Counselling may explore patterns of behaviour and help to shift inner beliefs that may not be correct. I will nurture passions and strengths and help develop a strong, positive sense of identity through development of a trusted relationship. All children and young people have a need for connection and attention and this may be displayed as anger or anxiety when this need is not fully met.
Where does it take place?
I work from a private, dedicated therapy room in my home with plenty of nearby free parking. I also offer outdoor therapy at a local venue for older teenagers or adults, this can suit those who find sitting and talking difficult or who like bringing nature into the healing process.
I also have a very calm and friendly Cavapoo called Luna, who joins us in sessions if permission is given.
With the child/young person’s permission I can also include a parent/carer at some of the sessions, this would be discussed and agreed in advance. Alternatively I can offer a coaching session to a parent to help them find a new way of engaging with their child/teenager to reduce conflict. See my 'support for parents' page for further details.