Understanding Adolescence
Adolescence can be a time of significant change, emotionally, socially and developmentally. Young people may be navigating increasing pressures at school, changes in friendships, questions about identity or difficulties with family relationships.
At times, these experiences can feel overwhelming or confusing, both for the young people, and for those supporting them.
Therapy offers a confidential and supportive space where young people can talk openly and being to make sense of what they are experiencing.
Reasons Young People Come to Therapy
Young people may come to therapy because they are experiencing:
- anxiety or persistent worry
- low mood or feeling withdrawn
- friendship or social difficulties
- low self-confidence or self-esteem concerns
- identity questions
- feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood
- family changes such a separation or conflict
- difficult managing emotions
- feeling different to others
- trauma, loss or bereavement
How Therapy Can Help Young People
Therapy can help young people feel heard and understood without fear of judgement. Some may find it easier to talk to someone outside of family or school, where they can express themselves freely.
Together we explore thoughts, feelings and experiences at a pace that feels manageable. The aim is not to tell young people what to do, but to help them develop greater understanding of themselves and more confidence in managing challenges.
For some, therapy provides support during a particular difficulty. For others it offers space to reflect and build emotional resilience over time.
Working with Parents
When working with young people, I aim to balance confidentiality with appropriate communication with parents or carers.
I usually begin with an initial meeting with parents, followed by an opportunity to meet with the young person. We can then consider together what feels most helpful going forward.
Confidentiality helps young people feel safe to speak openly. Where appropriate, I support communication between young people and parents in ways that feel constructive and manageable.
If there are concerns about safety, this will always be discussed openly.
My Approach with Young People
My approach is warm, calm and empathetic. I aim to offer a space where young people feel listened to and taken seriously.
Some young people find it easy to talk, while others may take more time to feel comfortable. Sessions are guided by the individual, and there is no pressure to talk about anything before they feel ready.
I draw on psychodynamic and integrative thinking, considering how experiences, relationships and environments can influence how young people feel about themselves and others.
Practical Information
- Sessions are 50 minutes
- In-person in Maidstone, Kent
- Online sessions available where appropriate
- Suitable for ages 11-18
- Initial consultation with parent(s) available
Please feel free to get in touch if you would like to discuss whether therapy may be helpful for your child.