Does my child or teenager need Counselling? What does child and teen counselling actually include? And, as a parent, how will I be involved?
These are just some of the common questions I get asked as a Child and Teen Counsellor, so I thought I would try and answer them for you here.
Does my Child/Teen need extra support?
Firstly, there are some basic signs that maybe your child or teen needs a little extra support from someone such as myself.
Some of these issues commonly include:
- Family changes
- Issues with friends
- Bullying at school
- Issues with confidence and self-esteem
You might have also noticed that your child or teenager’s school results aren’t quite as positive as they used to be.
Or, they have begun to lose interest in the hobbies they once loved. Or, they just aren’t their usual happy selves.
What is involved in Counselling for a child or teen?
Firstly, I will work to get to really know your young person. I will be trying to build a trusting connection with the person, getting to try and see the world through their eyes.
Sometimes, just having a neutral person to open up to can be empowering and can foster a spirit of change. Sometimes, a little more skill-building is in need in different areas.
The main thing is my approach will be 100% tailored to your child or teenager’s specific and individual needs.
My office is comfortable and quiet and in most cases, just a one-hour session on a regular basis is all that is required from a time perspective.
Are parents required to attend?
No, my regular sessions with your child or teen won’t include parents or caregivers.
I do ask though that you attend the first session so that I can get to know you a little and answer any questions or address any concerns you might have.
This discussion will take around 15 minutes and then the session will proceed just with myself and your young person.
It’s also a good opportunity to explain the process, as well as things like confidentiality.
From time to time through the counselling process I might ask you to attend a session or to catch up with me individually to discuss particular issues or to update you on progress etc.
If you have any other questions please feel free to send me an email via kaitlyn@withalittlehelp.com.au or use our Contact Us page.
Further information on myself can be found here, while we have additional info on my Child & Teen Counselling services available here.
And online bookings for new clients can be made on our Booking Portal.
