Parent Portal

School Counsellor

‘Growing up presents various challenges for children and young people.  Changes in behaviour, mood, or relationships are common and can be concerning for those around them.  Child and Adolescent Counselling offers support during these times, providing a safe space for exploration and growth.'

1. Purpose of the service

Child and Adolescent Counselling is an integrated approach that combines talking therapy with creative activities. This method provides children and young people with alternative ways to express themselves, especially when words alone may be difficult.

The approach recognises that creative expression can be a powerful tool for communication and emotional processing.

Through art, play, and conversation, young people can explore their feelings and experiences in a way that feels natural and comfortable to them.

My counselling services are tailored to meet the needs of children and young people in:

  • Upper KS2: Supporting the transition from primary to secondary education
  • KS3: Addressing the challenges of early adolescence and settling into secondary school
  • KS4: Helping with the pressures of GCSEs and planning for the future

Post 16: Supporting young people as they move towards independence

This approach is particularly beneficial for young people experiencing:

  • Anxiety or low mood
  • School-related stress, including exam pressures in KS4
  • Peer relationship difficulties, common across all Key Stages
  • Transition challenges
  • Family changes or challenges
  • Bullying
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Behavioural concerns
  • Trauma or loss

Even when specific issues aren’t apparent, Child and Adolescent Counselling can provide valuable support for general emotional well-being and personal growth.

I believe all children can flourish when given the right support. I offer them a safe space to express concerns and build understanding through the way children naturally learn, through play.

2. About you (and a photo, if you are happy to provide one – no problem at all if not)

As a Certified Play Therapist and Child and Adolescent Counsellor, registered with Play Therapy UK, I have 10+ years’ experience working within a school environment.

I am also an experienced Primary School Teacher (PGCE Canterbury Christ Church) and have a BA in German with Management Studies (Leeds University).

3. How the service works at Nexus and what you can help with

Children are referred for counselling by their class teacher, often following a parent’s request for support.  I then meet with parents or speak on the phone to understand the young person’s needs and establish goals for counselling, before introducing myself and the therapy room to the child.  Sometimes this is a gradual process, allowing your child to build a relationship with me before sessions begin.

Sessions are weekly and last up to 40 minutes.  My person-centred methodology adapts to each individual’s needs, recognising that the challenges faced by a Year 6 pupil are quite different from those of a Year 11 student.

Sessions may involve more talking or more creative expression, guided by what feels most comfortable and beneficial for the young person.

Regular reviews with parents and school staff ensure the counselling remains beneficial.

This flexible, non-judgemental environment allows children and young people to:

  • Express themselves freely
  • Develop new coping strategies
  • Build self-confidence
  • Improve emotional regulation
  • Enhance communication skills

4. Confidentiality and safeguarding statement

As a Certified Play Therapist and Child and Adolescent Counsellor I am registered with Play Therapy UK and regularly undertake professional development.

All my clinical work is supervised by a Clinical Supervisor in accordance with Play Therapy UK’s standards.

I hold an Enhanced Criminal Records Disclosure and personal indemnity and liability insurance and am registered with the Information Commissioners Office.

  • Working in partnership
  • Any additional information you would like to include
  • Any useful links for parents

I can’t think of anything for the last three – if you’d like me to please just say!