Counselling for Children & Young People

Young people over the age of 16 can consent to their own counselling, as with any other type of treatment.  Under the age of 16, a child can consent to their own counselling if it is believed that they have the capacity to understand fully what counselling is and what.

As with any client, the content of counselling sessions with children is confidential.  The only time that a counsellor may inform parents of something disclosed by their child in a session is if the counsellor thinks the child, or somebody else, is at immediate risk of serious harm.

It is not recommended for parents to be present at sessions, as children and young people are much more likely to open up and talk about their worries when they are alone in the session.  This does not necessarily mean that they are going to disclose something about their parents, but there could be many reasons they may not feel comfortable talking with a parent present, such as embarrassment, shame, or a fear of disappointing or upsetting their parents.

I use creative interventions with many types of client but these can be especially effective with children, who may not be comfortable with a more formal style of counselling.  These types of interventions may include the use of cards or images, miniatures, sand tray work, colouring or arts and crafts, or playing games.   When children’s minds are focused on something else, and often especially if their hands are busy, they can often find it easier to open up about their worries. Using these sorts of interventions can also allow for children to explore feelings and relationships at a remove from themselves, and so gain perspective and insight. You can see some images here of the types of interventions I might use with children and young people. Other children and young people find they benefit from being outside and walking during the counselling session.  This gives them opportunity to explore nature, to choose their route, and to be physical as they explore their troubles.