Emily

Counselling for Children and Young People 

Counselling can feel unfamiliar or even a little scary for children and young people. My first priority is to create a calm, relaxed space where they can feel safe simply being themselves.

Using age-appropriate, creative approaches – such as play, art, stories or gentle grounding – we explore what may be happening beneath the surface. Many children find it easier to express feelings through play rather than words, and with the right support this can help build confidence, emotional awareness and resilience.

I have extensive experience supporting children and young people who are:

• Young carers managing adult responsibilities
• Affected by trauma, loss or major life changes
• Struggling with school attendance or school-related anxiety

School attendance difficulties

Difficulties attending school are often misunderstood as defiance, when in reality they are usually rooted in overwhelming anxiety, pressure or a deep sense of not feeling safe.

I have worked closely with children and young people experiencing school attendance difficulties for many years and understand how layered this experience can be – including panic, shame, sensory overwhelm, social fears or the impact of trauma or bullying.

In therapy, I gently support young people to understand what feels unsafe, develop emotional regulation strategies and rebuild confidence step by step. I also work alongside parents to reduce conflict at home and create calmer, more supportive pathways forward, at a pace that feels manageable for the child.

Supporting Young Carers

Young carers carry responsibilities far beyond their years – caring for family members, managing household tasks, or holding the emotional weight of someone els’s wellbeing. This can leave them feeling isolated, overwhelmed or guilty for needing space of their own.

My work with young carers focuses on offering a safe, pressure-free space where they can be the one supported. Together, we explore the emotional impact of their role, build resilience, develop healthy boundaries and reconnect with parts of life that bring joy and relief.

Supporting adults

Reaching out for counselling as an adult can feel like a big step. You might be struggling with anxiety, low confidence, loneliness or a sense of feeling stuck.

I offer a supportive space to explore what’s going on and find ways forward that feel right for you. Alongside talking therapy, I may gently introduce creative or practical techniques, mindfulness or grounding exercises to support reflection and positive change.

Supporting parents and carers

Watching your child struggle can feel incredibly painful. You may feel unsure how to help or worried about making things worse – and that’s completely understandable.

I offer sessions for parents and carers who want support in understanding their child’s needs, strengthening communication at home and caring for their own wellbeing too. Parents are always welcome to attend the first session to help everyone feel at ease.