Counselling for Children & Young People in Skipton & Cowling

Growing up can bring many challenges. From changes at school and friendship difficulties to anxiety, low confidence, family changes or overwhelming emotions, children and young people can sometimes struggle to express how they're feeling.

I provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental environment where young people feel listened to, understood and supported. Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, I help children and young people make sense of their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies and build resilience for the future.

Every young person is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to their individual needs, personality and stage of development.

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How Counselling Can Help

There are many reasons why a child or young person may benefit from counselling. Sometimes the signs are obvious, while at other times they can be more difficult to recognise.

Counselling can help children and young people who may be experiencing:

Anxiety or excessive worry
Low mood or sadness
Friendship or relationship difficulties
Low self-esteem or confidence
School-related stress
Family changes, including separation or divorce
Bereavement and loss
Bullying
Emotional regulation difficulties
Feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope
Major life transitions

Counselling provides a confidential, supportive space where young people can explore these experiences in a way that feels safe and manageable.

My Approach

I understand that every child and young person experiences the world differently. As an integrative counsellor, I tailor therapy to the individual, adapting my approach to suit their age, needs and personality rather than expecting them to fit a single model of therapy.

Where appropriate, I may also draw on Theraplay-informed techniques, using playful, relationship-based activities to support connection, trust and emotional regulation between children and their parents or carers.

I believe that connection is at the heart of successful counselling. By building a trusting, compassionate relationship, I create a space where young people can feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgement.

Sessions are always delivered at a pace that feels right for the individual, allowing trust and confidence to develop naturally over time.

Supporting Parents and Carers

I recognise that seeking counselling for your child can feel like a significant step. My aim is to make the process as supportive and reassuring as possible, ensuring that both you and your child understand what to expect.

I'll explain how counselling works, answer any questions you may have and discuss how we can work together to best support your child while always respecting their privacy and confidentiality within appropriate professional boundaries. I believe that creating a safe therapeutic relationship is essential, helping young people feel confident to explore their thoughts and emotions openly.

What to Expect

Initial Consultation

We'll begin with an initial conversation to understand your concerns, discuss what has brought your child or young person to counselling and answer any questions you may have.

Counselling Sessions

Each session is tailored to the individual. We work at a pace that feels comfortable, creating a supportive environment where young people can explore their feelings, develop greater self-awareness and build confidence in managing life's challenges.

Ongoing Support

We'll regularly review progress to ensure counselling continues to meet your child or young person's needs, adapting our approach as appropriate throughout the therapeutic journey.

Face-to-Face & Online Counselling

I offer flexible counselling options to suit different circumstances.

Face-to-Face Counselling

Sessions are available from my welcoming therapy rooms in Skipton and Cowling, providing calm, comfortable spaces where children and young people can feel safe and supported.

Online Counselling

Where appropriate, online counselling offers a flexible alternative, allowing young people to access support from a familiar environment.

Together, we'll discuss the most suitable option based on individual needs and circumstances.

Why Choose Hawthorn Lodge Counselling?

Choosing the right counsellor is an important decision.

I provide:

A warm, compassionate and non-judgemental environment
Counselling tailored to each individual
An integrative approach that adapts to different needs
Experience supporting young people within education and community settings
Flexible face-to-face and online appointments
A collaborative approach that places the young person at the centre of therapy

My focus is on helping children and young people feel heard, understood and empowered to navigate life's challenges with greater confidence.

Take the First Step

If you're concerned about your child or young person's emotional wellbeing, you don't have to navigate it alone.

I provide a safe, supportive space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings while developing the tools to cope with life's challenges. If you'd like to find out more or discuss whether counselling is the right step, I'd be happy to arrange an initial conversation.