The emotional wellbeing of children and young people is fundamental to their development, relationships and future mental health. Child and adolescent psychotherapy provides specialist support for young people experiencing emotional or behavioural difficulties, helping them make sense of their experiences within a safe, supportive and age-appropriate therapeutic environment.
When should I seek psychotherapy for my child?
Research suggests that around one in ten children aged 5 to 16 and one in five adolescents experience a diagnosable mental health condition. Many mental health difficulties begin during childhood, with around half becoming established by the age of 14. When children or young people become overwhelmed by emotional distress, they may struggle to benefit from the support available at home, school or within their community. At these times, working with an experienced child and adolescent psychotherapist can provide valuable specialist support.
What is child and adolescent psychotherapy?
Working therapeutically with infants, children and adolescents requires specialist training and understanding. Child and adolescent psychotherapy is specifically designed to meet the emotional and developmental needs of young people. Recognised as a core profession within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), child psychotherapists are trained to understand children's emotional experiences, helping them process difficult feelings through conversation, behaviour and play in ways that are appropriate for their age and stage of development.
The importance of play
Play is central to every child's emotional and psychological development. For younger children, or those who find it difficult to express themselves through words, play provides a natural way to communicate thoughts and feelings. Through play therapy, children are supported to explore emotions, process difficult experiences and develop healthier ways of understanding themselves and relating to others.
How can parents and carers help?
Parents, carers and other family members play an important role in supporting a young person throughout therapy. Regular attendance and encouragement can make a significant difference to the therapeutic process. While therapy can bring lasting benefits, progress is not always immediate and some young people may experience difficult feelings before things begin to improve. Parents are encouraged to discuss any concerns with their child's therapist throughout the process.
Will my child attend sessions alone?
Each young person's needs are different. Depending on their age, circumstances and therapeutic goals, sessions may involve the child on their own, alongside a parent or family member, or include separate meetings with parents or carers. This flexible approach helps ensure that the young person receives the most appropriate support while also helping families better understand and respond to their child's emotional needs.
Child and adolescent psychotherapy at Hitchin Counselling and Psychology
Our child and adolescent psychotherapist is psychoanalytically and psychodynamically trained, with extensive experience working within the NHS, voluntary organisations and private practice. She is professionally accredited by the Association of Child Psychotherapists and the British Psychotherapy Federation, where she also teaches. This means you can feel confident that your child will receive experienced, compassionate and professionally accredited care. If you would like to find out more or arrange an appointment, please contact us.