Child & Adolescent Therapy
Child and adolescent psychotherapy is designed to help young people better understand and express difficult emotions, such as worry, anger, confusion, or sadness, that they may find challenging to articulate. This type of therapy can help them make sense of their experiences, reduce distress, increase self-awareness, heal from emotional pain, and build resilience.
Recognizing that it can be difficult for children and adolescents to open up, I use various specialist techniques tailored to each young person’s needs. These may include talking psychotherapy, art therapy, drama and movement therapy, or play therapy, depending on what is most effective for the individual.
How Can Child & Adolescent Therapy Help?
Understanding a young person’s distress is crucial in helping them manage and overcome their difficulties. My approach begins with carefully listening to what the young person communicates, not just through words but also through their behaviours, creative expressions, and play.
By paying close attention to how they express their feelings—whether through talking, art-making, drama, movement, or play—I work with them at their own pace to process overwhelming emotions. As these emotions are understood and managed, relationships at home and school often improve, leading to a more balanced and healthy life.
When is Child & Adolescent Therapy Recommended?
Child and adolescent therapy is recommended in various situations, including:
- Emotional Distress: When a young person is experiencing overwhelming emotions such as anxiety, depression, or anger.
- Behavioral Issues: When there are significant challenges in behavior, either at home, in school, or in social settings.
- Family Changes: During periods of family transition, such as divorce, relocation, or the death of a loved one.
- Developmental Concerns: When there are concerns about a child's or adolescent's emotional or psychological development.
- Trauma: After a traumatic event, such as abuse, bullying, or witnessing a traumatic incident.
- Mental Health Challenges: For ongoing mental health concerns, such as eating disorders, substance misuse, or chronic illness.
Child and adolescent therapy provides a safe and supportive space for young people to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and foster positive relationships, helping them to thrive as they grow.