I have counselled children of all ages in school settings and at youth organisations. I have a fully enhanced DBS and can provide references if required.
Each session lasts between 30-50 minutes depending on the age of the child. Often children find it difficult to share things that are bothering them with counsellors who only use conversational strategies, therefore I make use of natural resources and activity to connect with children which often helps them to talk about what is troubling them and to then find a resolution.
I am trained in play therapy and find this provides the best results when working with younger children. There are several therapeutic approaches which can be used in these situations, such as non-directive play therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. This may include role play with puppets or figures, drawing and writing, sand tray therapy, modelling with dough etc.
Research has shown that these types of therapy support the child to engage and better communicate their thoughts through play whilst being less stressful for them. (C. Feltham & I. Horton, 2006)
Benefits of Child Counselling can include:
- Improved self-esteem
- Help the child to feel empowered and more in control of issues and events
- Improved communication skills, and support to develop problem solving and decision making skills. Therefore improved behaviour is often seen as a result.
All counselling is confidential and covered by the Data Protection Act and in accordance with the BACP ethical framework.