How Counselling Can Support Your Child

Navigating childhood and adolescence can be challenging for both children and their parents. As children grow, they may encounter various hurdles that can affect their well-being. Counselling provides a safe, supportive space where your child can express their feelings, understand their thoughts, and develop coping strategies.

Issues Counselling Can Help With

Counselling can support children and young people through a range of issues, including but not limited to:

  • Anxiety: Helping them understand the root causes of their anxiety and develop effective coping mechanisms.
  • Anger: Assisting in identifying the sources of their anger and learning constructive ways to express it.
  • Low Mood: Providing a safe space to talk about feelings of sadness and hopelessness, and finding ways to improve their mood and outlook.
  • Self-Harm: Offering a non-judgmental environment to explore distressing thoughts and feelings, supporting the process of managing and reducing self-harm.
  • Family Changes: Assisting with the emotional impact of changes such as divorce, separation, or the loss of a loved one.
  • Issues at School: Helping them manage stress related to schoolwork, bullying, social challenges, and developing healthier study habits.
  • Gender Identity: Providing support for exploring and understanding gender identity, fostering self-acceptance and confidence.
  • Sexuality: Offering a safe space to explore and understand their sexuality, promoting a healthy and positive self-image.
  • Substance Use: Understanding the underlying causes of substance use and developing strategies for change.

Take The First Step.

I am committed to helping your child navigate life's challenges. If you're ready to take the first step, schedule their appointment.

Getting started:

The process begins with an initial consultation. Within this appointment I will take the time to explore with your child their needs and discuss what your child hopes to achieve from counselling.

During this session

I invite parents to join for the first 15 minutes so we can all go through the counselling agreement together, which explains my responsibilities as a counsellor regarding confidentiality and keeping children safe. Clients aged 16 and above can attend the initial consultation on their own.

At the end of the initial consultation

Your child will have the option to book the next session right away or do so at a later date online. While I recommend a minimum of six sessions on a weekly basis to begin with, the number and frequency of sessions will ultimately depend on your child’s needs.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a crucial part of counselling. It helps create a safe space for your child to express their thoughts and feelings openly, knowing that what is discussed in sessions remains confidential. It will be your child’s choice if they wish to share any information with you about what is spoken about in the sessions. The only exception to this is if there is a risk of harm to your child or others. In such cases, I am required to take appropriate action to ensure safety, which will be discussed with you as necessary.

What To Expect When You Book

Getting started at Brighter Days Therapy is an easy process.

Click "Book Now" If this is your first session, select ‘initial consultation’, if not, select ‘counselling session’.

Choose your preferred date and time. Once booked you will receive a confirmation email.

Arrive at your scheduled time. Those under 16 will need their parent for their first session.

Overcome Life's Obstacles With Counselling

Whatever your child's situation, therapy can guide them towards clarity, strengthen their resilience, and help them take control.

Frequently asked questions

What can my child expect during their first counselling session?

In the first session, your child will have the opportunity to talk about what’s been troubling them. I will ask questions to get to know your child better and get an understanding of how I can help. It’s a safe and supportive environment where your child can share as much or as little as they feel comfortable with.

Will I find out what my child talks about in counselling?

Counselling sessions are confidential, and what your child discusses in the session remains private. However, if there are concerns about your child's safety, I may need to speak with you, but I will always try to discuss this with your child first.

What if my child doesn’t know how to talk about their feelings?

It’s normal for some children to find it difficult to express their feelings. I will use various methods, such as drawings, play, or writing, to help your child communicate in a way that feels comfortable for them.

How long will my child need to attend counselling?

The duration of counselling depends on your child’s individual needs and goals. Some children benefit from a few sessions, while others may require a longer period. I hold regular reviews to ensure the best approach. I recommend a minimum of 6 sessions, on a weekly basis. Then after that your child can access sessions as and when they need the support.

Can my child stop counselling if they don’t like it or feel it isn't working for them?

Yes, your child has the right to stop counselling at any time if they feel it’s not helping. I want the best for all clients and if counselling doesn’t seem the right fit, then I will help you find other support in Jersey that could be beneficial.

Contact Emily:

Tel: 07700 391151

Email: talk@brighterdays.je

Open Hours

Tuesday 5pm - 8pm

Thursday 5pm - 8pm

Location

Suite 19 Bourne House

Francis Street

St Helier, Jersey

JE2 4QB


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