A space for young people (11-17) to feel more anchored in the turbulence of adolescence….
Talking therapy for young people
As a young person, the multiple challenges that you encounter may be immense; exams, relationships, school, identity, family, bullying, online issues, worries about the future, the environment, financial concerns, mental and physical health - it is little wonder that life may sometimes feel overwhelming. In addition to this, the neuroscience has shown that your brain is undergoing massive changes in its organisation, which will be impacting how you think, how you feel and how you interact with others. The most recent research shows that these changes are not complete until the age of 25!
Counselling sessions can help you make sense of some of these challenges and changes. I have worked with young people for many years, and offer a common sense and non-patronising approach. As an adult who is not connected to you in the same way as a relative, friend or teacher, I can offer a neutral space without agenda or judgement.
Confidentiality and Consent
As a young person, the contents of your counselling sessions will remain confidential - I will not discuss our sessions with other people, including your parents or carers. There are exceptions to confidentiality, where sharing of information may be necessary for your safety, if I feel that you or somebody else is at serious risk of harm, or also in the light of specific conditions related to the law. When we first start working together, we discuss this in more detail and agree how we will work together through a Counselling Agreement and a Confidentiality Agreement. Where appropriate, your parent or carer will also be provided with a Parent Agreement ensuring that they understand confidentiality in your sessions, and its exceptions.
It is highly recommended that you speak with your parents or carers about your wish to attend counselling sessions so that they are able to support you in your decision and throughout the course of your sessions. However, I am aware that not all situations are clear cut and there may be circumstances where this would be challenging. You are able to access counselling without parental consent under the age of 16 if you are deemed to be 'Gillick Competent' - this is a term which refers to your ability to make decisions for yourself and have an awareness of the consequences of them. There is no specific age associated with Gillick Competence and different young people will be assessed as competent at different times. There is a presumption that young people aged 16 and over are generally Gillick Competent.
Gillick Competence does not affect the exceptions to confidentiality already mentioned, and information causing concerns around risk of harm or with legal implications may still need to be shared.
“I just wanted to write another thank you to truly say how much I appreciate your help and kindness”
— Past Client