Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy

Supporting Young People Through Therapy

Child and adolescent psychotherapy provides a safe, structured, and supportive space for children and young people to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Therapy is tailored to each child’s developmental stage, and may involve talking, play, or creative approaches.

I work with children and adolescents facing a wide range of emotional, relational, or psychological challenges, supporting the development of self-understanding and resilience, and facilitating change and growth, in a contained therapeutic environment.

Who This Can Help

Psychotherapy can support children and adolescents experiencing difficulties such as:

  • Anxiety, low mood, or depression

  • Anger, aggression, or difficulties in relationships

  • Trauma, grief, family breakdown, or abuse

  • Developmental concerns or transitions

  • Risk-taking behaviour, self-harm, or thoughts of suicide

  • Questions of identity

  • Challenges with peer groups or social interaction

The Therapy Process

Initial Consultation
For children under 16, the first session typically involves parents or carers, to explore the child’s needs and assess suitability for psychotherapy. In some instances, older adolescents may begin an individual assessment directly.

Assessment
I usually offer a three-session assessment, allowing time to understand the young person’s difficulties, observe their capacity to engage with therapy, and decide whether ongoing therapy is appropriate.

Ongoing Therapy
If therapy is recommended, a regular time is agreed upon and ring-fenced. Regularity, reliability and continuity are all key aspects of solid and successful therapeutic work. Typically, therapy is once a week, but more intensive work (two or three sessions per week) is sometimes indicated.

Supporting Parents

Parent involvement can be an important part of child and adolescent psychotherapy. Regular sessions with parents or carers may help:

  • Support the therapeutic process

  • Increase understanding of the child’s difficulties

  • Address family dynamics that influence the child’s wellbeing

Parents are encouraged to provide support without pressing for details of sessions, allowing the young person’s privacy while maintaining engagement in the therapeutic process.

Confidentiality

Sessions are kept confidential. Some aspects of the work may be communicated back to parents, but only with the young person’s consent. There are some legal and ethical exceptions when I may need to break confidentiality. For example, if I believe there is a serious risk of harm to the young person or to others.

Next Steps

If you are considering psychotherapy for your child, you can book an initial consultation or enquire for more information via the contact link.