Support for Children & Adolescents

Struggles

21 Dec

Childhood and adolescence are times of significant emotional, social, and developmental change. Young people may struggle as they navigate identity, friendships, school pressures, family dynamics, and the growing expectations placed upon them. While some difficulties pass with time, others can feel overwhelming or begin to affect daily life.

Children and adolescents do not always have the words to explain what they are feeling. Distress may show up through behaviour, emotions, physical symptoms, or changes in mood, confidence, or relationships. Support can help young people feel understood, supported, and better equipped to manage what they are experiencing.

You might notice difficulties if a child or young person…

Seems withdrawn, anxious, low, or irritable
Is struggling with school, learning, or academic pressure
Experiences worries, fears, or emotional outbursts
Shows changes in behaviour, sleep, or appetite
Has difficulties with friendships or peer relationships
Is navigating family changes, loss, or transitions
Struggles with confidence, identity, or self-esteem

How therapy can help

Therapy for children and adolescents offers a safe, supportive space tailored to their age, developmental stage, and individual needs. The work may involve talking, creative approaches, play, or structured techniques, depending on what feels most appropriate.

Support can help young people understand their feelings, develop emotional regulation, build resilience, and improve communication. Where appropriate, parents or carers may also be involved to support understanding and change within the wider system around the child.

Approaches that may help children & adolescents

The following approaches are often helpful when supporting children and young people:

Counselling
Provides a supportive space for young people to talk, reflect, and feel heard.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Can help with anxiety, low mood, worries, and emotional regulation.
Psychotherapy
Supports deeper emotional exploration, particularly when difficulties are longstanding or complex.
Family or Systemic Approaches
May involve parents or carers to support change within relationships and family dynamics.
Creative or Play-Based Approaches
Help younger children express feelings and experiences that may be difficult to put into words.

Therapists who work with children & adolescents

Therapists supporting children and adolescents

Featured

Dr Anya Ciobanca

Consultant Psychiatrist and Cognitive Analytic Therapist offering integrated medical and psychological care for adults and young people.

Emanuela Gollin

Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor offering compassionate, integrative support for children, teenagers, and families.

Dr Jessica Memarzia

HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist offering CBT (including Trauma-Focused CBT) and integrative, neurodiversity-informed psychological therapy for children, young people and adults, alongside clinical supervision, and consultancy and training to professionals, schools and other organisations.

Roxanna Anderson

Person-centred Counsellor offering trauma-informed, compassionate support for children, young people, and adults experiencing loss, trauma, and emotional distress.

Tami Oren

Integrative Relational Counsellor offering trauma-informed, compassionate support for adults navigating anxiety, identity, and life transitions.

Victoria Catt

BABCP-accredited CBT Psychotherapist, Psychiatric Nurse, and University Lecturer supporting children, young people, and adults with anxiety, trauma, and complex needs.

Zoe Conn

BABCP-accredited CBT Psychotherapist offering practical, compassionate support for adults and young people experiencing anxiety, trauma, and low mood.

Finding the right support

Seeking support for a child or young person can feel daunting, and it is natural to have questions or uncertainties. Reaching out does not mean something is “wrong” — it means you are paying attention and taking care.

You are welcome to explore therapist profiles above, or to get in touch if you would like guidance on the most appropriate form of support for your child or teenager.

Mabel Martinelli