How does it work?
The teenage years can be a challenge for many young people, with up to 3 in each class having a diagnosable mental health condition. Referrals for mental health support are at an all time high with long waiting lists both in school and CAMHS. Sometimes they need space to talk to someone outside the family home that they trust. This is why we offer 1:1 counselling for teenagers. With many years experience working with children and teens, our Human Givens Therapist offers solution focused therapy to young people to help them find balance and give them tools for life.
Initially the counsellor will have a conversation with the parent to find out a bit more about the presenting concerns. If they are already working with a therapist the therapy will not be able to commence for ethical reasons.
The initial call will include taking a history about the concerns that have prompted the referral. The young person then needs to be consulted in order for therapy to commence. This will ensure engagement in the session. If the child is also happy to work with the counsellor the sessions can then commence.
What issues can you support teens with?
Adolescence and childhood can be a tricky time and a time when they are more prone to things like anxiety due to the wiring of their brain. Young people are trying to work out who they are and navigating some important situations in their lives including exams, friendship issues, and school challenges. As they reach adolescence often they start to become a little more independent, and their brains are changing rapidly.
Our counsellor can support teens with the following issues and more. If you can’t see what you are looking for please get in touch,
- Friendship issues
- Bullying
- Managing chronic illnesses
- Self harm
- Being a young carer.
- Exam anxiety
- Anxiety
- Low mood
- Anger
- Grief.
Will the young person be alone or with the parent?
Our teen counselling sessions take place in the counselling room in Welling. Sessions take place with the parent present or with the child on their own depending on how comfortable the young person feels. It may be useful for the parent to remain present for the first session in order to help the young person settle. Our counsellor has worked on a 1:1 basis with children and young people and therefore has the relevant insurance and DBS check.
Am I told what is talked about in the sessions?
The sessions are confidential. What is discussed will be between the counsellor and the young person is kept between them. Confidentiality is discussed at the beginning of the first session. You are not automatically informed of session content. The counsellor will hold a safe space for the young person in order to help them achieve what they want to get out of the therapy. If s concern arises, the counsellor may share this with you. Safeguarding is of utmost importance and if you want to know more please find our policy here safeguarding policy by following the link.
What age are the teen counselling sessions for?
Sessions can take place with children from the age of 6 or above. Rapport building is key to the success off the work. The counsellor will use a variety of techniques relevant to the child including art, Lego or play dough.
Early action is beneficial to mental well-being.
Referrals for support with mental health are at an all-time high following Covid. It is difficult to access support in schools or local services. As a result, lots of teens are getting support with their mental health in order to live the lives they want.
The sessions offer a safe and non-judgemental time and space for the young person. The sessions are goal-orientated. They will equip young people with knowledge and skills to manage their mental health.
If you want to find out more about how I can help your teen please get in touch. I offer a free no-obligation chat.
The counsellor will not be able to support the young person or teen if they are not willing to engage. There is the option for the parents to work with the counsellor and access some parent support