Child Psychotherapy

What is child psychotherapy?

Child psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach specifically designed to help children deal with emotional, behavioural , and psychological issues. Common difficulties addressed in child psychotherapy include anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, behavioural problems, and difficulties with relationships with family and friends.

The role of the therapist is to provide a safe and supportive environment for the child with a mental health professional who specialises in children and adolescents. This space is offered as a place that allows the child or young person to try to make sense of their internal world and the world around them. The ultimate goal is to help children understand themselves better, improve their emotional well-being, and enhance their overall functioning in daily life.

Many people think that psychotherapy involves lying on a couch whilst the therapist listens, nods and makes the occasional comment! However, in reality it is very different. A psychotherapy session may involve the use of creative skills like painting, drawing or other arts & crafts. It may involve getting out for a walk outdoors, chatting about what Netflix shows you’ve watched and even laughing sometimes!

Alex’s preferred approach is to meet a client in the space that they are at, whatever this may look like. There is no pressure to be, say or do anything that does not feel right.

Alex also works with the family, as well as the child. A child or young person rarely comes to psychotherapy of their own accord, and often a parent or caregiver has instigated the sessions. It is important that important relationships are part of the support Alex provides.

If you would like to hear more about the specific service that Alex provides, please get in touch.

Alex Penfold RMN Dip NCPS ACCPH