Children and Adolescents
Helping your child make sense of their emotions, experiences and the world around them.
Children and Adolescents Psychology
When your child is struggling, it can be difficult to know what to do or how best to support them. You may have noticed changes in their mood, behaviour, confidence, relationships, or the way they are coping with everyday life. You might be wondering whether it is something they will grow out of, or whether they need some extra support.
You don't have to navigate this alone.
Every child is different. I take the time to understand your child's unique personality, experiences, strengths, relationships and the factors that may be contributing to their struggles. Therapy is tailored to your child's developmental stage, individual needs and goals, while also recognising the important role parents and caregivers play in supporting their wellbeing.
Looking beyond behaviours to understand your child’s story
Every child communicates differently, and behaviours can often be a way of expressing emotions, experiences or needs that they may not yet have the words to explain. Rather than focusing only on the behaviour itself, I take the time to understand what may be happening beneath the surface and what your child may be trying to communicate.
Building a strong therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of the process. Some children find it easy to talk, while others may communicate through creativity, activities, play, or through taking time to build trust. I adapt my approach to each child and work at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
My goal is to help children better understand their emotions, develop healthier ways of coping, build confidence, and feel more connected to themselves and the people around them.
Evidence-based approaches
I use a range of evidence-based approaches depending on your child's needs, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR Therapy, parts work approaches, Exposure and Response Prevention and other therapeutic modalities.
For children and adolescents who have experienced trauma or overwhelming life experiences, I have particular experience supporting them to process these experiences in a way that feels safe and manageable. EMDR therapy may be considered where appropriate and when your child has developed the necessary skills and sense of safety to engage in this type of work.
Working together with parents
Parents are an important part of a child's therapeutic journey.
Depending on your child's age and needs, I work collaboratively with parents by providing guidance, helping you understand what may be happening beneath your child's behaviour, and sharing practical strategies to support emotional regulation and connection at home.
The aim is not only to support your child during sessions, but to help create lasting changes in everyday life.
I can support children and adolescents experiencing:
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Anxiety and excessive worrying
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Social anxiety
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Difficulties with friendships
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Depression and low mood
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Trauma and PTSD
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Phobias
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Emotional regulation difficulties
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Low self-esteem and confidence
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OCD and intrusive thoughts
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Panic attacks
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Self-harm and emotional distress
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Separation anxiety
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School-related stress and difficulties
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Grief and significant life changes
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Relationship difficulties
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Difficult experiences that continue to impact their wellbeing
Taking the first step
Reaching out for support for your child can feel like a big decision. Many parents come feeling unsure about whether therapy is the right step or how their child will respond.
My aim is to make the process as comfortable as possible for both you and your child. If you would like to discuss whether therapy may be helpful for your child, please get in touch.
Behind every behaviour is a feeling. And behind every feeling is a need.