Children, young people and families

This article explains to children, young people and their families that there are positive alternatives and choices when it comes to addressing your mental health and emotional well-being no matter what age you are.

You may be aware from the news and media of the tremendous strain on mental health services for young people under the age of 18. Often there are many hurdles and barriers that you need to overcome before you can find appropriate help and support. You may wait for weeks or sometimes months before you are assessed by a healthcare professional to have your problems and concerns explored. Initial assessment may be from the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) or from a school-based counsellor for example. Even today, a recent survey carried out by charity Place2Be reveals that only a third of primary schools have an on-site counsellor.

Now for the good news; it is possible to seek immediate help by contacting a private counsellor who is experienced in working with children, young people and families. Private therapy can help you with things like day-to-day worries, exam stress, self-harm concerns, or your relationships with friends, peers, parents and teachers. These are only a few examples. You may feel that whatever is bothering you is very small, but if it is bothering you, it is important and you can talk to someone about it privately and in confidence.

Here are just some of the reasons why seeking private therapy can be a healthy alternative:

• There will be no lengthy delays of NHS and/or school waiting lists – an appointment for an initial assessment will normally be available within two weeks and you can bring any family members along with you to your first appointment.
• The location will be private and confidential without a school or clinical environment.
• Private therapy allows you to address your problems and concerns without delay.
• Appointments can be flexible and out of school hours.
• Your sessions are driven by your needs – you get to choose how often you want to come and there are no time limits or session restrictions.
• There will usually be several ways of receiving your therapy, from simply one to one talking, more creative activities or even going outdoors and connecting with nature. You and your therapist will agree your preferred way of working.
• There will be all the usual benefits of a private service, such as somewhere for parents or carers to wait while you have your session and you will get a really personal service with comfortable and private surroundings.
• Your will see the same counsellor from assessment until the end of your treatment plan, meaning you can build a trusting therapeutic relationship with your counsellor and no need to see other professionals, unless an onward referral is the best action for you.
• Your counsellor can help you to explore your all round well-being and also address confidence and self-esteem issues.
• You will undergo a process of personal growth and development that can embrace new life skills and experiences.

Many young people and their families who have gone for private therapy believe that the benefits have far outweighed the cost resulting in young people feeling empowered, supported, heard and understood. If this is something you have been thinking about, the time to act is now to find out how private therapy can help you too.