Most young people realise they are ready to engage in counselling when there is something either about themselves or in their lives that they would like to understand or change.

This will depend on the challenges you are facing, how long you have been struggling and what your aims and goals are for counselling. The average length of time clients are supported in my practice is typically 9-12 months however I have also supported young people for several years. Where suitable short-term counselling is available with a minimum commitment of 12 sessions.

Yes, it is very important that young people and their families are aware the sessions are confidential. I will not disclose anything you share unless you, or someone else, is at risk or you give permission for me to share on your behalf.

I offer remote sessions for clients with whom there is already an established therapeutic relationship or for clients who are not able to access the counselling room due to the stairs.

Parent support, mentoring and supervision can be offered online if preferred.

These terms are often used interchangeably and both refer to the exploration of emotional and psychological issues with a trained and qualified professional on a regular basis.

Both can offer short-term and long-term support though intensive psychotherapy can offer support several times a week.

In the UK counselling tends to be used more often especially for emotional support services in schools, whereas therapy is a more common phrase used in the USA.

Therapists are trained to offer talking therapy aimed at helping individuals to adjust, process or resolve personal emotional issues.

Psychologists also provide talking therapy and are trained to provide psychological testing and can make a formal diagnosis.

Psychiatrists provide minimal talking therapy but can provide assessments, make formal diagnoses, and prescribe medication.