Young people often come to solution-focused counselling feeling unheard, misunderstood, angry and confused. They may be tussling with different relationships, struggling with bullying, school, course pressures or life choices; often they are feeling depressed, have anxiety, or are bereaved; some are refusing to go to school, or may be overwhelmed by some incident which is adversely affecting their lives. Some may have eating disorders or are self-harming. More often than not, they find it really useful to talk to someone not directly involved in their lives, someone neutral and non-judgmental. In a therapeutic environment they feel able to discuss their choices and find their own solutions, thereby establishing control over their lives and issues. Ultimately this benefits everyone with whom they are in daily contact.
I work with young people from about the ages of 12 onwards, with a range of problems. I’m able to facilitate their exploration towards solutions in an atmosphere which is relaxed and in which they feel safe to explore solutions. Again, my approach is not to give advice, pronounce judgment, preach or teach. Although I may make suggestions, coming out of what they tell me and related to their particular circumstances, ultimately the solution comes from them, (otherwise it wouldn’t work!) This applies to all young people, whether they see me voluntarily or whether they are required to do so by an outside agency or service.
Young people’s counselling is also confidential, unless they or someone else is at serious risk of harm or if they request that certain issues are discussed with their carers, parents or guardians. (This is applicable mainly to those adolescents able to understand and deal with their own issues, rather than to younger children, who are too young to tend to their own issues).
Young people can choose to attend all sessions individually, or have a mix of single and family sessions, where appropriate. Young people who see me do so either by choice, or by referral. Sometimes, against their will, it is their parents’ wish that they enter into therapy. Whilst, initially, they may view this as coercion, once they feel comfortable and realise they are being heard and that I don’t take sides, they often find themselves able to engage and ultimately benefit from the sessions.
I counsel many young people online. It works extremely well as they often feel more comfortable in their own homes – I send them a zoom link which is easy to access so all they need is privacy and access to a computer.
If you or your child would like to access these solution-focused online counselling sessions let me know and I’ll send you the details of how it works; it’s simple to arrange, there is quick entry to appointments, it’s confidential and hassle free.