An integrative Approach
Younger children often express their feelings, thoughts and inner experiences through play, creativity and imagination. In therapy, play and art may become the child’s natural language.
Older children and young people may benefit from a combination of talking and creative exploration. I am trained in both talking and play therapy, and offer an integrative approach that adapts to the young person’s developmental stage, needs and preferences.
As part of my play therapy work, I offer a range of creative methods including drawing, storytelling, sand tray therapy and imaginative play. These approaches support the development of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship and can help children explore feelings, experiences and difficulties in their lives.
By following the child’s pace and interests, I aim to understand what may be happening beneath the surface and how they can best be supported in their emotional, social and personal development. The focus is not simply on changing behaviour, but on understanding what the behaviour may be communicating.
Working with Parents / Carers
Therapy with children is most effective when parents and carers are actively involved. I work from a systemic perspective, which means the child is always understood within the context of their family relationships.
The process includes weekly sessions with the child alongside regular parent meetings. These meetings provide space for reflection, shared understanding and collaboration, and can support parents and carers in responding to what their child is experiencing.
Who I work with
Children and young people experiencing mild to moderate emotional and behavioural difficulties, including low self-esteem, excessive worry, peer relationship difficulties, bullying, grief and bereavement, oppositional or challenging behaviour, social anxiety, school performance anxiety, school avoidance, low mood, and attachment-related difficulties.
Is this the right fit?
The free 20-minute phone call offers an opportunity to explore whether this approach may be suitable for your child and family. A parent or carer assessment meeting helps establish this further. The initial session with the child also forms part of the assessment process and helps us understand whether they feel comfortable and able to engage in therapy. If I believe another service would better meet your child's needs, I will discuss this with you and, where possible, offer appropriate signposting.
Confidentiality and Safeguarding
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Therapy offers children and young people a confidential space to explore their thoughts and feelings through play, creativity and conversation
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To support trust, the detailed content of sessions is not routinely shared with parents or carers. However, Parents and carers are an important part of the therapeutic process and will be involved through regular meetings, where we discuss the child's progress, emerging needs, and how we can all work together to support the child.
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The limits of confidentiality will be explained to both parents and children at the outset. If there are any concerns about a child or another person's safety or welfare, I have professional duty to share relevant information in line with safeguarding responsibilities.
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I hold Enhanced DBS certificate and work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework and current safeguarding guidance.
Fees and Structure
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Free 20-minute introductory phone consultation to discuss your concerns and explore whether the therapy I offer is the right fit.
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A free 50-minute parent or carer assessment meeting is required before a child begins therapy.
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Child therapy sessions: £60 (50 minutes, in Person)
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Parent or carer meetings: £60 (50 minutes, available in person or online)
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A minimum commitment of 12 child sessionsn is recommended to allow time for the therapeutic relaitonship to develop and meaningful work to take place.
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At least one parent or carer meeting is included within each 12-session block to review progress, reflect on the child's needs, and consider how best to support them between sessions.
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Child therapy sessions take place in Hove: 69 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2BB
