Children and Young People

The current generation of children and young people are growing up at a time of unprecedented turbulence and uncertainty. Almost a quarter of children are unhappy with at least one aspect of their life.

The effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction, also have a significant impact on a  child's development and their future mental health. Studies indicate that 1 in 3 children in the UK have experienced at least one form of adversity.

In the UK, the mental health and well-being of children and young people has become a critical issue in recent years. According to the NHS, around 1 in 6 children aged 5 to 16 has a mental health disorder, with this increasing to 1 in 4 to 17- to 19-year-olds.

 It is evident children, and young people are struggling, and this comes at a cost; suicide is still the leading cause of death for males and females aged between 5-34.

I want to help make a change in these statistics. 

I have over 14 years of experience working with children and young people across educational and therapeutic settings, supporting a wide range of needs. 

Alongside my practical experience, I hold a Post- Graduate qualification in Counselling Children and Young People, providing me with specialist knowledge and understanding of child and adolescent development and mental health.

I also work 3 days a week with young people in a alternative provision setting as a Pastoral and Therapeutic Lead. 

I have completed the following children and young people CPD:

* Introduction to Adverse Childhood Experience and Early Trauma

*4 Foundations for Helping Trauma-Impacted Youth Not Just Survive but Thrive

*Supporting Children who are Reluctant to Return to School

* Trauma Basics for Youth Workers

* Keeping Them Safe - Protecting Children from Child Sexual Exploitation

*Children and Violence: An Introductory, international and interdisciplinary approach

*Understanding Anxious Non Attendance 

* Child on Child Abuse 

I also hold a full enhanced DBS and I am a Designated Safeguarding Lead (Level 3). 

If you wish to see any of my credentials please let me know. 

My work is particularly focused on supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Specific challenges and conditions include:

• Emotional Difficulties
• Mental Health Conditions
• Social Communication Challenges
• Behavioural Responses
• Specific Diagnoses
• Trauma and Adversity

As a parent myself I understand it can be hard to put your trust in someone else, but I promise to support your child to the best of my abilities. 

I understand that every young person is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet their individual needs, strengths and experiences. I recognise the important role that parents and carers play in a young person's well being. 

Where appropriate, I work collaboratively with you to support your child. The first consultation will be with a parent / carer and you are more than welcome to join at the start of their first session. 

However,  after the first session I do ask it is just myself and the young person, in order to maintain the trust and confidentiality that is essential within the therapeutic relationship. 

Please note confidentially will be broken if I feel your child is at risk of harm, or there are legal or ethical implications as set out in my T&Cs.

If your child is struggling please reach out today, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space where they feel heard, understood and valued.