Íø±¬ÃÅ

Mondays and Tuesdays afterschool hours - 3.30-6.30pm.

Children will relate differently to their counsellors based on the counsellor's age, demeanour, gender etc. They might be looking for lots of advice, or for somebody to boss around! Here is some information about my understanding of children and how I engage with them. Although each therapy relationship is unique, my practice is guided by the following. 

The child is the expert. With a little guidance children can discover more about themselves and what is best for themselves. I listen attentively, follow their lead and empower each child to move forward. They will be in control of what we talk about and how we play. I will never force them to talk about something which feels uncomfortable. I believe when trust is established they will express themselves authentically and at greater depth.

Children speak through their behaviour, and communicate through play. I offer a variety of activities for the child to explore and I play alongside. Having a dedicated time and space with somebody neutral allows the child to express themself in new ways. With some reflection from the therapist or expression through a different medium the child can move forward in their thinking. Counselling children involves meeting children where they are, through the world that they see. Sometimes it really just looks like play, but with a purpose!

Our past influences our current understanding of the world. From birth, children learn to relate through early attachments, communication and connection with others. We all develop patterns, beliefs and expectations from past experiences. Building awareness of these can be illuminating and help to manage existing difficulties. Therefore I may ask you about their early life to understand their history before we start working together.

I am very comfortable answering any questions and there is no obligation to work with me if I am not the right fit for your child.

As a member of the Íø±¬ÃÅ, I uphold safe practice including confidentiality, respect and professionalism. The ethical framework is linked below and is adhered to throughout my practice. My work is guided by a wider organisation that makes sure I am delivering high quality and informed therapy.

My priority will be establishing a relationship with your child, getting to know them and helping them to feel safe and valued. My playroom is not strict, clinical or stressful - we focus on playing together and grow from there. Children can learn about their other relationships through trying things out in the relationship with their counsellor - they might stand up for themselves in new ways, experiment with being more vulnerable, or explore what it feels like to really let their anger out. Doing this in the playroom allows them to find new behaviours outside the therapy room which feel more healthy and authentic.

Sometimes I offer a shorter session depending on the child, where the parent can visit the room and help to settle them. We may meet for a shorter time on the first meeting or spend 45 minutes together if the child is comfortable. 

I will give a tour of the room and introduce the materials available - dolls house, art table, sand tray, puppets and games. I will then allow the child to explore them and join with them in their play. Initially, therapy is about getting to know each other, building relationship and settling to feel safe in the space. I believe that children will feel safe to explore their emotions if they first feel safe with their counsellor.